JP6415896B2 - Medical examination system and X-ray diagnostic apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a medical examination system and an X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

  Generally, in a group health examination for a plurality of subjects, a plurality of tests are sequentially performed. Examples of the plurality of examinations include chest X-ray examination and stomach X-ray examination. In a group medical examination, a stomach X-ray examination may be performed after a chest X-ray examination.

  Normally, different medical image diagnostic apparatuses are used for chest X-ray examination and stomach X-ray examination. In addition, the X-ray imaging position of each medical image diagnostic apparatus is individually adjusted for each examination, that is, for each medical image diagnostic apparatus.

  For example, at the start of a stomach X-ray examination performed on a subject after a chest X-ray examination, the technician moves to the vicinity of a position for irradiating the examination target site with X-rays based on the body shape of the subject. The X-ray tube is moved manually (referred to as coarse adjustment movement). Then, the engineer irradiates the subject with X-rays and manually moves the X-ray tube to a position for irradiating the X-rays to the examination target site while viewing the X-ray fluoroscopic image (with fine adjustment movement). Called). After this fine adjustment movement is completed, the engineer starts a stomach X-ray examination.

  The longer the fine adjustment movement time, the more the subject receives X-ray irradiation not directly related to the examination. This can lead to unnecessary exposure. In general, the subject is taking a stomach contrast medium and a foaming agent. The longer the coarse adjustment movement and the fine adjustment movement, the greater the burden on the subject by taking the stomach contrast medium and the foaming agent.

JP 2009-291128 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a medical examination system that can shorten the examination time and the exposure dose of the subject.

The medical examination system according to the embodiment includes a first medical image diagnostic apparatus and a second medical image diagnostic apparatus. The first medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a designation receiving unit, a calculation unit, and a code generation unit. The designation accepting unit accepts designation of the target position, which is the position of the examination target part by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus, for the X-ray image. The calculation unit calculates the target position based on the target position, the position of the X-ray detector when the X-ray image is taken, and the first reference position predetermined for the first medical image diagnostic apparatus. A distance from the first reference position is calculated. The code generation unit generates a readable code that represents both the distance and the information that can identify the subject. The second medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a code conversion unit, a position specifying unit, and a drive control unit. The code conversion unit reads the code, and converts the code into distance and information that can identify the subject. Position specifying unit, distance and identifiable information subject, and based on the second reference position location predetermined for the second medical image diagnostic apparatus as a position corresponding to the first reference position, the The corresponding position corresponding to the target position in the medical image diagnostic apparatus of 2 is specified for the subject. The drive control unit moves the X-ray tube to a position where X-rays can be emitted to the specified corresponding position.

The schematic diagram showing the outline of the medical examination system of embodiment. The block diagram showing the functional composition of the 1st medical image diagnostic device of an embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the outline about the position of the X-ray detector of embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the outline of the chest X-ray image as an example of the X-ray image of embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the outline about the 1st reference position of embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the relationship between the chest X-ray image and X-ray detection surface as an example of the X-ray image of embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the relationship between the 1st reference position and detection surface corresponding position of embodiment. The block diagram showing the functional composition of the 2nd medical image diagnostic device of an embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the outline of the 2nd medical image diagnostic apparatus of embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the outline about the 2nd reference position of embodiment. The flowchart showing operation | movement of the medical examination system of embodiment. The block diagram showing the functional composition of the 1st medical image diagnostic device of an embodiment. The schematic diagram showing the outline of the X-ray image of embodiment and the marker showing a standard position. The schematic diagram showing the outline of the window of embodiment. The flowchart showing operation | movement of the medical examination system of embodiment. The flowchart showing operation | movement of the medical examination system of embodiment.

  Hereinafter, a medical examination system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the medical examination system of this embodiment. The medical examination system includes a first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and a second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2. Here, an example in which the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is a chest X-ray diagnostic apparatus and the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 is a stomach X-ray diagnostic apparatus will be described. For example, the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 are mounted on individual examination vehicles (C1, C2), respectively. A medical examination system including a medical image diagnostic apparatus mounted in this way is used for mobile group health examinations performed outside a hospital. In this case, the subject E1 receives a chest X-ray examination by the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and then a stomach X-ray examination by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. The first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 captures an X-ray image of the subject E1. Hereinafter, the configuration of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 will be described.

  The first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 mainly includes an X-ray irradiation unit 4, a high voltage generation unit 7, a standing imaging stand 8, and an information processing unit 20. The X-ray irradiation unit 4 includes an X-ray tube 5 to which a high voltage from the high voltage generation unit 7 is applied, and an X-ray diaphragm 6. The information processing unit 20 includes a subject ID reading unit 3a, a subject ID storage unit 3b, an image generation unit 11, a designation receiving unit 14, a calculation unit 15, and a code generation unit 16. The standing imaging stand 8 includes an X-ray detector 9 and a detector position acquisition unit 10. The X-ray irradiation unit 4, the high voltage generation unit 7, the standing imaging stand 8, and the information processing unit 20 are controlled by the system control unit 17. An operation unit 13 is connected to the system control unit 17. The first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 corresponds to an example of an “X-ray diagnostic apparatus” in the present invention.

  The subject ID reading unit 3a reads a subject ID that can identify the subject E1. Usually, in the group health examination, an questionnaire for each subject E1 is used. A label printed with a one-dimensional bar code representing the subject ID is attached to the questionnaire. The questionnaire is delivered to the technician by the subject E1 who has arrived at the examination car C1 of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The subject ID reading unit 3a includes a barcode reader. The engineer causes the subject ID reading unit 3a to read the one-dimensional barcode using a barcode reader. Then, the subject ID reading unit 3a identifies the subject ID. The subject ID reading unit 3a outputs information representing the identified subject ID to the subject ID storage unit 3b. The subject ID storage unit 3b includes a general storage device, and stores information representing the subject ID received from the subject ID reading unit 3a.

  The X-ray irradiation unit 4 is held on the ceiling of the examination car C1 through the neck N1 so as to be horizontally movable. The neck N1 is configured to be extendable. Thereby, the X-ray irradiation part 4 is provided so that a movement in a horizontal direction and an up-down direction is possible. The X-ray tube 5 generates X-rays. The X-ray tube 5 includes a cathode and an anode. The cathode emits electrons. The anode receives electrons from the cathode, generates X-rays, and irradiates the subject E1 with X-rays. The X-ray diaphragm 6 forms an opening (slit), and adjusts the irradiation field of X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 5 by changing the size and shape of the slit.

  The high voltage generator 7 generates a high voltage for the X-ray tube 5 to irradiate X-rays. The high voltage generator 7 applies a high voltage between the anode and the cathode of the X-ray tube 5. The high voltage generator 7 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 5 when receiving an irradiation signal based on an X-ray irradiation operation by a technician. The X-ray tube 5 generates X-rays and the subject E1 is irradiated with the X-rays that have passed through the opening.

  The standing imaging stand 8 includes an X-ray detector 9 and a detector position acquisition unit 10. The X-ray detector 9 detects X-rays that have passed through the subject E1 and entered the X-ray detection surface. The X-ray detector 9 converts the detected X-rays into electric charges and accumulates them. The X-ray detection unit outputs the accumulated charge as detection data to the image generation unit 11. The X-ray detector 9 is provided so as to be movable up and down on a support column P1 erected from the floor of the examination car C1. In the chest X-ray examination, the X-ray detector 9 is moved to a position that matches the physique of the subject E1. Then, the X-ray irradiation unit 4 is moved to a position facing the X detector 9 by an operation by a technician. After these movements, X-rays are irradiated based on an X-ray irradiation operation by a technician. Therefore, the position of the X-ray detector 9 when an X-ray image is taken may be different for each subject E1.

  The detector position acquisition unit 10 acquires the position of the X-ray detector 9 when an X-ray image is taken. Drawing 3 is a mimetic diagram showing the outline about the position of X-ray detector 9 of an embodiment. The detector position acquisition unit 10 acquires the position of the X-ray detector 9 when an X-ray irradiation operation is performed. The detector position acquisition unit 10 receives the irradiation signal, and acquires the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the irradiation signal is received. The detector position acquisition unit 10 acquires the distance between a predetermined height reference position as the position of the X-ray detector 9.

  FIG. 3 shows an example in which the height T1 from the lower end P2 of the column P1 to the center P3 of the X-ray detector 9 is acquired as the position of the X-ray detector 9. The detector acquisition unit may acquire the height up to another position such as the upper end or lower end of the X-ray detector 9 instead of the center P3 of the X-ray detector 9. The detector position acquisition unit 10 outputs position information indicating the acquired position of the X-ray detector 9 to the calculation unit 15. The position of the lower end P2 is usually the position of the sole of the subject E1.

  The image generation unit 11 generates X-ray image data based on the detection data from the X-ray detector 9. Thereby, X-ray image data representing the chest of the subject E1 is generated. This corresponds to taking an X-ray image of the subject E1. The image generation unit 11 may read the subject ID from the subject ID storage unit 3b and attach the subject ID to the X-ray image data. The image generation unit 11 has a storage device and stores the generated X-ray image data. The image generation unit 11 outputs the generated X-ray image data to the display unit 12.

  The display unit 12 displays an X-ray image based on the X-ray image data from the image generation unit 11. Thereby, the engineer can visually recognize the X-ray image of the subject E1. The display unit 12 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

  The operation unit 13 receives an operation by an engineer and inputs a signal and information corresponding to the content of the operation to each unit of the apparatus. The operation unit 13 includes, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, and various switches such as an X-ray irradiation switch.

  The designation accepting unit 14 accepts designation of the target position, which is the position of the examination target part, by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 for the X-ray image. The designation receiving unit 14 receives the designation of the target range including the examination target part as the designation of the target position. This designation is performed by the engineer operating the operation unit 13 while visually recognizing the X-ray image displayed on the display unit 12.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of a chest X-ray image as an example of the X-ray image P4 of the embodiment. Normally, the range represented by the chest X-ray image includes the lung L1 that is the main examination target of the chest X-ray examination and the stomach S1 that is the main examination target of the stomach X-ray examination. The engineer operates the operation unit 13 such as a pointing device while visually recognizing the displayed chest X-ray image, and designates the position of the stomach S1 in the chest X-ray image. At this time, the engineer performs an operation input such as drawing a predetermined figure such as an ellipse or a rectangle on the chest X-ray image via the operation unit 13, and performs an examination (in this embodiment, the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2). A target range including a region to be inspected by stomach X-ray examination) is designated. The designation receiving unit 14 converts the received position of the target range, that is, the target position into coordinates in the displayed X-ray image. The designation receiving unit 14 outputs target position data representing the target position to the calculation unit 15.

  The calculation unit 15 is based on the target position, the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the X-ray image is taken, and the first reference position determined in advance for the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position are calculated. The calculation unit 15 receives the target position data from the designation receiving unit 14 to identify the target position in the X-ray image. The calculation unit 15 receives the position information from the detector position acquisition unit 10 to identify the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the X-ray image is captured.

  The first reference position is a position determined in advance for the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. For example, the first reference position is determined in advance as a reference for two coordinate directions that can correspond to the coordinates in the X-ray image. The calculation unit 15 has a memory area, and stores first reference position information representing the first reference position in advance.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of the first reference position according to the embodiment. For example, the first reference position P5 is determined at the position of the intersection between the central axis A1 of the X-ray detection surface S2 in the vertical direction (z-axis direction) and the lower end P2 of the column P1. Usually, the coordinates of the X-ray detection surface S2 correspond to the coordinates of the X-ray image P4. The vertical direction (z-axis direction) of the standing imaging stand 8 and the X-ray detection surface S2 corresponds to the vertical direction (z-axis direction) of the X-ray image P4. The left-right direction (x-axis direction) of the standing imaging stand 8 and the X-ray detection surface S2 corresponds to the left-right direction (x-axis direction) of the X-ray image P4.

  The calculation unit 15 calculates the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 for the two coordinate axis directions. As described above, the calculation unit 15 determines the distance and direction from the first reference position P5 to the center of the detection surface by specifying the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the X-ray image is captured. . FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a relationship between a chest X-ray image as an example of the X-ray image P4 of the embodiment and the X-ray detection surface S2. The calculation unit 15 obtains a detection surface corresponding position P6 corresponding to the target position based on the correspondence relationship between the coordinates of the X-ray image P4 and the coordinates of the X-ray detection surface S2.

  For example, the calculation unit 15 calculates the interval and direction between the first reference position and the center of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a relationship between the first reference position P5 and the detection surface corresponding position P6 according to the embodiment. Here, for the sake of explanation, the vertical direction (z-axis direction) will be described. The calculation unit 15 detects from the center P3 of the detection surface by referring to the distance T1 and direction from the first reference position P5 to the center P3 of the detection surface and the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position. The distance T2 and direction to the center P7 of the range represented by the surface corresponding position P6 are obtained. The calculation unit 15 adds or subtracts the distance T2 to the distance from the first reference position P5 to the center P3 of the detection surface.

  In the example of FIG. 7, the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 is located below the center P3 of the detection surface. In this case, the direction from the first reference position P5 to the center P3 of the detection surface is opposite to the direction from the detection surface center P3 to the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6. At this time, the calculation unit 15 sets the distance T2 from the center P3 of the detection surface to the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 to the distance T1 from the first reference position P5 to the center P3 of the detection surface. Subtract. Thereby, the interval T3 between the first reference position P5 and the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 is calculated in the vertical direction (z-axis direction).

  In some cases, the direction from the first reference position P5 to the center P3 of the detection surface and the direction from the center P3 of the detection surface to the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 are the same direction. is there. In this case, the calculation unit 15 sets the distance T2 from the center P3 of the detection surface to the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 to the distance T1 from the first reference position P5 to the center P3 of the detection surface. to add. Thereby, the interval T3 between the first reference position P5 and the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 is calculated in the vertical direction (z-axis direction).

  Thus, the calculation unit 15 calculates the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 for the two coordinate axis directions. The calculation unit 15 uses the distance and direction between the first reference position P5 and the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 as information indicating the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5. The data is output to the code generator 16.

  Further, the calculation unit 15 calculates a width T4 in the vertical direction (z-axis direction) and a width T5 in the left-right direction (x-axis direction) of the range based on the obtained range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6. To do. The range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 is obtained as coordinates on the X-ray detection surface S2. The calculation unit 15 refers to the coordinate information of the range with respect to the vertical direction (z-axis direction) and the horizontal direction (x-axis direction), respectively, so that the width T4 in the vertical direction (z-axis direction) and the horizontal direction (x-axis direction). ) Is calculated. The width T4 in the vertical direction (z-axis direction) and the width T5 in the left-right direction (x-axis direction) calculated as described above are obtained when the X-rays irradiated by the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 are subjected to the second medical image diagnosis. The width (T4, T5) of the range which permeate | transmitted the target range containing the test | inspection site | part of the test | inspection by the apparatus 2, and injected into the detection surface is represented. The calculation unit 15 outputs the calculated width (T4, T5) to the code generation unit 16 as information indicating the width of the target range.

  The calculation unit 15 similarly calculates the interval and direction between the first reference position P5 and the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 in the left-right direction (x-axis direction). For example, the calculation unit 15 calculates the interval T6 and the direction from the first reference position P5 to the center P7. Thereby, the distance and direction between the first reference position P5 and the center P7 of the range represented by the detection surface corresponding position P6 are calculated for the two coordinate axis directions. The calculated interval and direction are the positions at which the X-rays irradiated by the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 pass through the center position of the examination target part of the examination by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 and enter the detection surface. And the distance and direction from the first reference position P5.

  The code generation unit 16 generates a readable code that represents both the distance and direction between the target position of the subject E1 and the first reference position P5 and information that can identify the subject E1. . For example, the code generation unit 16 receives information representing the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 from the calculation unit 15, and also includes information on the subject E1 that can identify the subject E1. The subject ID is read from the subject ID storage unit 3b. The code generation unit 16 generates a code representing these distances and directions and the subject ID.

  Examples of the codes include printable graphic codes such as two-dimensional barcodes, communication codes that can be communicated by a communication protocol such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol), and the like. The code generation unit 16 has an output function corresponding to the code. For example, when the code generation unit 16 generates a graphic code, the code generation unit 16 includes a printing machine and prints the generated graphic code. The printed graphic code can be affixed to an inquiry form used for a medical examination. Further, when the code generation unit 16 generates a communication code, the code generation unit 16 has a communication interface and outputs the generated communication code. The output communication code is transmitted to the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2.

  The system control unit 17 controls each unit of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The system control unit 17 includes a storage device, and stores a computer program for executing the function of each unit of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The system control unit 17 includes a processing device, and implements functions of each unit by executing a stored computer program.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 according to the embodiment. Hereinafter, the configuration of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 will be described.

  The second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 includes a fluoroscopic imaging bed 18, an information processing unit 40, a display unit 30, an operation unit 31, and a system control unit 32. The fluoroscopic imaging couch 18 includes an X-ray irradiation unit 19, a high voltage generation unit 21, and a couch unit 22. The X-ray irradiation unit includes an X-ray tube 23 to which a high voltage from the high voltage generator 21 is applied and an X-ray diaphragm 24. The bed unit 22 includes an X-ray detector 221 and a bed driving unit 222. The information processing unit 40 includes a code conversion unit 25, a subject ID storage unit 26, a position specifying unit 27, a drive control unit 28, and an image generation unit 29. The fluoroscopic imaging bed 18 and the information processing unit 40 are controlled by the system control unit 32.

  The fluoroscopic imaging couch 18 includes an X-ray irradiation unit 19, a high voltage generation unit 21, and a couch unit 22. The X-ray irradiation unit 19 is provided to face the bed part 22. The X-ray irradiation unit 19 is provided to be movable in a direction parallel to the placement surface S3 of the bed part 22 (a direction parallel to the zx plane). The X-ray irradiation unit 19 includes an X-ray tube 23 and an X-ray diaphragm 24. The X-ray tube 23 includes a cathode and an anode. The cathode emits electrons. The anode receives electrons from the cathode, generates X-rays, and irradiates the subject E1 with X-rays. The X-ray diaphragm 24 forms an opening (slit), and adjusts the irradiation field of X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 23 by changing the size and shape of the slit. The X-ray irradiation unit 19 is provided to be movable in a direction parallel to the placement surface S3 of the bed part 22 (a direction parallel to the zx plane).

  The high voltage generator 21 generates a high voltage for the X-ray tube 23 to irradiate X-rays. The high voltage generator 21 applies a high voltage between the anode and the cathode of the X-ray tube 23. The high voltage generator 21 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 23 when receiving an irradiation signal based on an X-ray irradiation operation by a technician. The X-ray tube 23 generates X-rays and the subject E1 is irradiated with the X-rays that have passed through the opening.

  In the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2, fluoroscopic X-rays and radiographing X-rays are distinguished and irradiated. The fluoroscopic X-ray is an X-ray irradiated for X-ray fluoroscopy. Usually, the dose of fluoroscopic X-rays is smaller than the dose of radiographic X-rays. Imaging X-rays are X-rays irradiated for X-ray imaging. By the operation of the engineer, irradiation of fluoroscopic X-rays and imaging X-rays can be switched.

  The bed unit 22 includes a placement surface S3 on which the subject E1 is placed, a footrest F1 with which the sole of the subject E1 comes into contact when placed, an X-ray detector 221, and a bed driving unit 222. And have. The X-ray detector 221 is provided in the vicinity of the placement surface S <b> 3 inside the bed unit 22. The X-ray detector 221 detects X-rays that have passed through the subject E1 and entered the X-ray detection surface. The X-ray detector 221 converts the detected X-rays into electric charges and accumulates them. The X-ray detection unit outputs the accumulated charge as detection data to the image generation unit 29. The bed driving unit 222 rotates the bed unit 22 and the X-ray irradiation unit 19 together with the short side direction (x-axis direction) of the placement surface S3 as a rotation axis.

  The code conversion unit 25 reads the code from the code generation unit 16. The code conversion unit 25 converts the read code into the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 and information that can identify the subject E1. For example, the code conversion unit 25 includes a two-dimensional barcode reader. When the subject E1 arrives at the examination car C2 of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2, a questionnaire with a two-dimensional barcode printed and pasted as a code is given to the technician. The engineer causes the code conversion unit 25 to read the two-dimensional barcode using a two-dimensional barcode reader. Then, the code conversion unit 25 converts the read two-dimensional barcode into the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 and the subject ID that is information that can identify the subject E1. . The code conversion unit 25 outputs information indicating the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 to the position specifying unit 27. The code conversion unit 25 outputs information representing the subject ID to the subject ID storage unit 26. The subject ID storage unit 26 includes a general storage device, and stores information representing the subject ID received from the code conversion unit 25.

  As described above, the information about the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 and the subject ID between the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 is obtained. Delivered in bulk. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the misunderstanding of information such that the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 are used for the examination of another subject E1. In the conventional group medical examination, for each medical image diagnostic apparatus, an engineer reads a code (for example, a one-dimensional bar code) indicating a subject ID pasted on the questionnaire so that the subject E1 is identified. Inspection was done after identification. In this embodiment, information on the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 and the subject ID is collectively delivered. Thereby, the information on the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 and the subject ID can be transferred without increasing the work load on the engineer.

  The position specifying unit 27 includes a distance and a direction between the target position and the first reference position P5, information that can identify the subject E1, and a second position determined in advance as a position corresponding to the first reference position P5. The corresponding position corresponding to the target position is specified for the subject E1 in the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 based on the reference position. For example, the position specifying unit 27 specifies the distance and the direction by receiving information indicating the distance and the direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 from the code converting unit 25. The position specifying unit 27 has a memory area and stores in advance second reference position information representing the second reference position.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of the second reference position P8 according to the embodiment. The second reference position P8 is determined as a position corresponding to the first reference position P5. For example, the second reference position P8 is determined at the intersection point between the central axis A2 of the bed portion 22 in the longitudinal direction (z-axis direction) and the upper surface P9 of the footrest F1. The second reference position P8 is determined in advance as a position corresponding to the first reference position P5.

  The second reference position P8 includes the relative positional relationship between the first reference position P5 and the subject E1 in the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1, and the second reference position in the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2. The relative position relationship between the position P8 and the subject E1 is set to a position that can be regarded as equivalent. Each coordinate axis direction (x-axis direction, y-axis direction, and z-axis direction) is determined to be a direction that is equivalent to the direction with respect to the subject E1 in the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. Thereby, the coordinate system for the subject E1 of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is associated with the coordinate system for the subject E1 of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2.

  The distance and direction between the target position specified by the position specifying unit 27 and the first reference position P5 are based on the coordinate system for the subject E1 of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. As described above, the coordinate system for the subject E1 of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and the coordinate system for the subject E1 of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 are determined in advance in association with each other. The position specifying unit 27 specifies the corresponding position P10 corresponding to the target position based on this association. Thereby, the position corresponding to the center and the target range of the target position designated in the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is specified for the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2. The position specifying unit 27 outputs information indicating the center P11 and the corresponding range of the specified corresponding position P10 to the drive control unit 28 so as to be settable.

  The drive control unit 28 moves the X-ray tube 23 to a position where the specified corresponding position P10 can be irradiated with X-rays. The drive control unit 28 specifies the center P11 of the corresponding position P10 with reference to the information indicating the center P11 and the corresponding range of the corresponding position P10 from the position specifying unit 27. The drive control unit 28 moves the X-ray irradiation unit 19 to a position where the center P11 of the corresponding position P10 can be irradiated with X-rays. As an example of a position where the center P11 of the corresponding position P10 can be irradiated with X-rays, a position where the focal point of the X-ray tube 23 is included in a straight line perpendicular to the placement surface S3 at the center P11 of the corresponding position P10 can be given. .

  Further, the drive control unit 28 controls the X-ray diaphragm 24 to form an opening for irradiating X-rays in the corresponding range. The drive control unit 28 refers to the information indicating the center P11 and the corresponding range of the corresponding position P10 from the position specifying unit 27, and specifies the corresponding range. The drive control unit 28 controls the X-ray diaphragm 24 to form an opening corresponding to the corresponding range. In this way, the drive control unit 28 moves the X-ray tube 23 to a position where the X-ray can be irradiated to the specified corresponding position P10, and forms an opening for irradiating the X-ray in the corresponding range. X-rays can be irradiated to the corresponding range.

  The image generation unit 29 generates X-ray image data based on the detection data from the X-ray detector 221. The X-ray image data includes X-ray fluoroscopic data and X-ray imaging data. When X-ray fluoroscopy is performed, the image generation unit 29 generates X-ray fluoroscopic image data at a constant time interval (frame rate), and displays the X-ray fluoroscopic image data every time the X-ray fluoroscopic image data is generated. To the unit 30.

  When X-ray imaging is performed, the image generation unit 29 generates X-ray imaging image data based on detection data when X-rays for imaging are irradiated. At this time, the image generation unit 29 may read the subject ID from the subject ID storage unit 26 and attach the subject ID to the X-ray image data. The image generation unit 29 has a storage device and stores the generated X-ray image data. The image generation unit 29 outputs the generated X-ray image data to the display unit 30.

  The display unit 30 displays an X-ray fluoroscopic image based on the X-ray fluoroscopic image data from the image generation unit 29 or X-ray radiographic image data based on the X-ray radiographic image data. Thereby, the engineer can visually recognize the X-ray fluoroscopic image or X-ray image of the subject E1. The display unit 30 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

  The operation unit 31 receives an operation by an engineer and inputs a signal and information corresponding to the content of the operation to each unit of the apparatus. The operation unit 31 includes, for example, various switches such as a keyboard, a mouse, and an X-ray irradiation switch.

  The system control unit 32 controls each unit of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2. The system control unit 32 includes a storage device, and stores a computer program for executing the function of each unit of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2. The system control unit 32 includes a processing device, and implements the functions of each unit by executing a stored computer program.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the medical examination system of this embodiment. Hereinafter, the operation of the medical examination system of this embodiment will be described.

  Step S101: The subject ID reading unit 3a reads a subject ID that can identify the subject E1. The subject ID reading unit 3a identifies the subject ID. The subject ID reading unit 3a outputs information representing the identified subject ID to the subject ID storage unit 3b.

  Step S102: The X-ray detector 9 is moved to a position that matches the physique of the subject E1.

  Step S103: The high voltage generator 7 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 5 when receiving an irradiation signal based on an X-ray irradiation operation by a technician. The X-ray tube 5 generates X-rays and the subject E1 is irradiated with the X-rays that have passed through the opening. The X-ray detector 9 detects X-rays that have passed through the subject E1 and entered the X-ray detection surface.

  Step S104: The detector position acquisition unit 10 acquires the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the X-ray irradiation operation is performed. At this time, the detector position acquisition unit 10 receives the irradiation signal and acquires the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the irradiation signal is received. The detector position acquisition unit 10 outputs position information indicating the acquired position of the X-ray detector 9 to the calculation unit 15.

  Step S105: The image generation unit 11 generates X-ray image data based on the detection data from the X-ray detector 9. The image generation unit 11 outputs the generated X-ray image data to the display unit 12.

  Although FIG. 11 shows an example in which step S104 and step S105 are processed in parallel, these steps may be processed in series. When these steps are processed in series, the processing order of step S104 and step S105 may be any of the previous orders.

  Step S106: The display unit 12 displays an X-ray image based on the X-ray image data from the image generation unit 11. The designation accepting unit 14 accepts designation of the target position, which is the position of the examination target part, by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 for the X-ray image. The designation receiving unit 14 outputs target position data representing the target position to the calculation unit 15.

  Step S107: The calculation unit 15 calculates the target position, the position of the X-ray detector 9 when the X-ray image is taken, and the first reference position P5 that is predetermined for the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. Based on the above, the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 are calculated. The calculation unit 15 outputs the information indicating the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 to the code generation unit 16.

  Step S108: The code generation unit 16 generates a code representing both the distance and direction between the target position of the subject E1 and the first reference position P5 and the subject ID that can identify the subject E1. Generate. The code generation unit 16 outputs the generated code.

  Step S109: The code conversion unit 25 reads the code from the code generation unit 16. The code conversion unit 25 converts the read code into the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5, and the subject ID. The code conversion unit 25 outputs information indicating the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5 to the position specifying unit 27.

  Step S110: The position specifying unit 27 is based on the distance and direction between the target position and the first reference position P5, and a second reference position that is predetermined as a position corresponding to the first reference position P5. A corresponding position corresponding to the target position is specified in the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2. The position specifying unit 27 outputs information indicating the center P11 and the corresponding range of the specified corresponding position P10 to the drive control unit 28.

  Step S111: The drive control unit 28 refers to the information indicating the center P11 and the corresponding range of the corresponding position P10 from the position specifying unit 27, and specifies the center P11 of the corresponding position P10. The drive control unit 28 moves the X-ray irradiation unit 19 to a position where the center P11 of the corresponding position P10 can be irradiated with X-rays. The process of step S111 represents that the coarse adjustment movement and the fine adjustment movement at the start of the stomach X-ray examination are automatically performed in accordance with the position of the target position of the subject E1.

  Step S112: The drive control unit 28 specifies the corresponding range with reference to the information indicating the center P11 of the corresponding position P10 and the corresponding range from the position specifying unit 27. The drive control unit 28 controls the X-ray diaphragm 24 to form an opening corresponding to the corresponding range.

  Step S113: The high voltage generator 7 applies a high voltage for fluoroscopy to the X-ray tube 5 when receiving an irradiation signal based on an X-ray irradiation operation for fluoroscopy by a technician. The X-ray tube 5 generates X-rays for fluoroscopy, and the X-rays for fluoroscopy that pass through the opening are irradiated to the subject E1. Thereby, the inspection by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus is started.

  The effect of the medical examination system of the first embodiment will be described. The medical examination system of this embodiment calculates a corresponding position in the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 based on the target position received for the X-ray image by the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. Further, the corresponding position is transferred from the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 to the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 together with the subject ID. Then, the X-ray irradiation unit 19 is moved to the corresponding position, and the X-ray diaphragm 24 forms an irradiation field to the corresponding range. As described above, the corresponding position is obtained before the examination by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus is started, and the movement of the X-ray irradiation unit to the corresponding position and the formation of the irradiation field are automatically performed. As a result, the time for coarse adjustment movement and fine adjustment movement, which has been conventionally performed manually by an engineer, is shortened. Further, since the X-rays are not irradiated during the coarse adjustment movement and the fine adjustment movement, the exposure dose of the subject can be reduced. Therefore, the examination time can be shortened and the exposure dose of the subject can be reduced.

<Second Embodiment>
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 of the medical examination system of this embodiment. The medical examination system of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the functional configuration of the first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. Hereinafter, this difference will be mainly described.

  The first medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a standard position storage unit 33 and a display control unit 34. The standard position storage unit 33 stores in advance a standard position that is a standard target position. For example, the standard position is a position obtained in advance from clinical statistics. Examples of positions obtained in advance from clinical statistics include target positions in the coordinate system of X-ray images (in this embodiment, chest X-ray images) taken in the past for a plurality of subjects (this embodiment) Then, the most frequent position of the stomach) is mentioned. The most frequent position is determined in advance by calculating an average value or a median value for the coordinates of X-ray images taken in the past for a plurality of subjects. An operator such as an engineer inputs coordinate information representing the standard position into the standard position storage unit 33 in advance. Thereby, the standard position storage unit 33 stores in advance coordinate information representing the standard position.

  The display control unit 34 superimposes and displays both the X-ray image and the marker representing the standard position. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the X-ray image P4 and the marker M1 indicating the standard position of this embodiment. For example, the display control unit 34 reads coordinate information representing the standard position from the standard position storage unit 33. The display control unit 34 receives X-ray image data from the image generation unit 11. The display control unit 34 refers to the coordinate information representing the standard position and the coordinate system of the X-ray image data, and superimposes the X-ray image P4 of the X-ray image data and the marker M1 representing the standard position on the display unit 12. To display.

  In addition, the display control unit 34 causes the display unit 12 to display a window W1 (see FIG. 14) for prompting the engineer to determine whether to approve the standard position as the target position. The window W1 includes an icon IC1 for accepting an instruction for approving the standard position as the target position, and an icon IC2 for accepting an instruction not approving the standard position as the target position.

  The designation receiving unit 14 is configured to be able to receive a designation with the standard position as the target position as the designation of the target position. For example, when the engineer operates the operation unit 13 such as a pointing device to give an instruction via the icon IC1, the designation receiving unit 14 determines that an instruction for approving the standard position as the target position has been given. At this time, the designation receiving unit 14 regards the standard position as the target position, and outputs data representing the standard position to the calculation unit 15 as target position data.

  When the engineer operates the operation unit 13 such as a pointing device and gives an instruction via the icon IC2, the designation receiving unit 14 determines that an instruction not to approve the standard position as the target position has been given. Then, the engineer draws a predetermined figure such as an ellipse or a rectangle on the chest X-ray image via the operation unit 13 (in this embodiment, a stomach X-ray examination). ) Specify the target range including the inspection target part. The designation receiving unit 14 converts the received position of the target range, that is, the target position into coordinates in the displayed X-ray image. The designation receiving unit 14 outputs target position data representing the target position to the calculation unit 15.

  15 and 16 are flowcharts showing the operation of the medical examination system of this embodiment.

  The processing content of each step from step S201 to step S204 is the same as the processing content of each step from step S101 to step S104 in the operation example shown in FIG.

  Step S205: The image generation unit 11 generates X-ray image data based on the detection data from the X-ray detector 9. The image generation unit 11 outputs the generated X-ray image data to the display control unit 34.

  FIG. 15 shows an example in which step S204 and step S205 are processed in parallel, but these steps may be processed in series. When these steps are processed in series, the processing order of step S204 and step S205 may be any of the preceding orders.

  Step S206: The processing content of this step will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The processing content of each step from step S207 to step S213 is the same as the processing content of each step from step S207 to step S213 in the operation example shown in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 16, the processing content of step S206 is demonstrated.

  Step S301: The display control unit 34 reads coordinate information representing the standard position from the standard position storage unit 33.

  Step S <b> 302: The display control unit 34 receives X-ray image data from the image generation unit 11. Reference is made to the coordinate information representing the standard position and the coordinate system of the X-ray image data.

  Step S303: The display control unit 34 causes the X-ray image P4 of the X-ray image data and the marker M1 representing the standard position to be superimposed and displayed on the display unit 12.

  Step S304: The display control unit 34 causes the display unit 12 to display a window W1 (see FIG. 14) for prompting the engineer to determine whether to approve the standard position as the target position.

  Step S305: When the designation to approve the standard position as the target position is made (step S304; Yes), the designation receiving unit 14 regards the standard position as the target position, and calculates the data representing the standard position as the target position data 15 Output to.

  Step S306: When an instruction not to approve the standard position as the target position is given (Step S304; No), the engineer draws a predetermined figure such as an ellipse or a rectangle on the chest X-ray image via the operation unit 13. An operation input is performed, and a target range including a region to be examined by examination of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 (in this embodiment, a stomach X-ray examination) is designated. The designation receiving unit 14 converts the received position of the target range, that is, the target position into coordinates in the displayed X-ray image. The designation receiving unit 14 outputs target position data representing the target position to the calculation unit 15.

  The effect of the medical examination system of this embodiment will be described. Many of the subjects who undergo group health examinations may have a stomach portion that is generally close to the position. When an engineer designates target positions for X-ray images of a plurality of subjects, he / she gives instructions for approval to the standard positions to a large number of subjects whose stomachs are located at the standard positions. By doing so, the target position can be specified. On the other hand, for a part of subjects whose stomach portion is not located at a standard position, such as a subject with a stomach drop, the target position is designated by the same operation instruction as in the first embodiment. In this way, by storing the standard position in advance and displaying the standard position superimposed on the X-ray image, it is possible to shorten the time for the engineer to specify the target position. Therefore, the inspection time can be further shortened.

  According to at least one embodiment described above, the corresponding position is obtained before the examination by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus is started, and the X-ray irradiation unit is moved to the corresponding position and the irradiation field is formed. Done automatically. Thereby, it is possible to shorten the examination time and reduce the exposure dose of the subject.

  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.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a mobile health check using a medical examination car has been described. However, the present invention is applied to a form of a medical examination system used for a health check performed in a predetermined medical institution such as a hospital. May be implemented. Further, the second medical image diagnostic apparatus may be any apparatus that is used after the examination by the first medical image diagnostic apparatus. For example, a subject who has been diagnosed as having a reexamination of a site to be examined (stomach in the above-described embodiment) through a health checkup performs an examination of the site to be examined at a predetermined medical institution such as a hospital by reexamination. When receiving, the corresponding position calculated at the time of the health check may be used.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 1st medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 2nd medical image diagnostic apparatus 3a Subject ID reading part 3b Subject ID memory | storage part 4 X-ray irradiation part 5 X-ray tube 6 X-ray aperture 7 High voltage generation part 8 Standing imaging table 9 X-ray detector 10 Detector position acquisition unit 11 Image generation unit 12 Display unit 13 Operation unit 14 Designation reception unit 15 Calculation unit 16 Code generation unit 17 System control unit 18 Fluoroscopic imaging bed 19 X-ray irradiation unit 20 Information processing unit 21 High voltage generation unit 22 Bed unit 23 X-ray tube 24 X-ray diaphragm 25 Code conversion unit 26 Subject ID storage unit 27 Position specifying unit 28 Drive control unit 29 Image generation unit 30 Display unit 31 Operation unit 32 System control unit 33 Standard position storage unit 34 Display control unit 40 Information processing unit 221 X-ray detector 222 Bed drive unit

Claims (6)

A medical examination system having a first medical image diagnostic apparatus and a second medical image diagnostic apparatus,
The first medical image diagnostic apparatus comprises:
A designation accepting unit that accepts designation of a target position, which is a position of an examination target part by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus, for an X-ray image;
Based on the target position, the position of the X-ray detector when the X-ray image is taken, and a first reference position predetermined for the first medical image diagnostic apparatus, A calculation unit for calculating a distance from the first reference position;
A code generation unit that generates a readable code representing both the distance and information capable of identifying the subject;
Have
The second medical image diagnostic apparatus comprises:
A code conversion unit that reads the code and converts the code into information that can identify the distance and the subject;
Based the converted the distance and the subject identifiable information, and the second reference position location predetermined for the second medical image diagnostic apparatus as a position corresponding to the first reference position A position specifying unit for specifying a corresponding position corresponding to the target position for the subject in the second medical image diagnostic apparatus;
A drive control unit that moves the X-ray tube to a position where the X-ray can be irradiated to the specified corresponding position;
A medical examination system characterized by comprising: The first reference position is predetermined as a reference for two coordinate axis directions that can correspond to the coordinates in the X-ray image,
The calculation unit calculates the distance in the two coordinate axis directions,
The medical examination system according to claim 1, wherein the position specifying unit specifies the corresponding position of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus based on a direction corresponding to the two coordinate axis directions. The designation accepting unit accepts designation of a target range including the examination target part as designation of the target position,
The second medical image diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray diaphragm,
The position specifying unit specifies a corresponding range corresponding to the target range for the second medical image diagnostic apparatus as the corresponding position,
The medical examination system according to claim 2, wherein the drive control unit controls the X-ray diaphragm to form an opening for irradiating the corresponding range with X-rays. The first medical image diagnostic apparatus comprises:
A standard position storage unit that stores in advance a standard position that is a standard target position;
A display control unit that superimposes and displays both the X-ray image and the marker representing the standard position;
Including
The medical examination according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the designation receiving unit is configured to be able to accept a designation with a standard position as the target position as a designation of the target position. system. A designation receiving unit that receives designation of a target position that is a position of an examination target site by the second medical image diagnostic apparatus in the X-ray image of the subject imaged by the first medical image diagnostic apparatus;
Based on the target position, the position of the X-ray detector when the X-ray image is taken, and a first reference position predetermined for the first medical image diagnostic apparatus, A calculation unit for calculating a distance from the first reference position;
A code generation unit that generates a readable code representing both the distance and the information capable of identifying the subject;
A code conversion unit that reads the code and converts the code into information that can identify the distance and the subject;
Based on the converted second distance and information that can identify the subject, and a second reference position that is predetermined for the second medical image diagnostic apparatus as a position corresponding to the first reference position. And specifying the corresponding position corresponding to the target position in the second medical image diagnostic apparatus for the subject and outputting the specified corresponding position to the second medical image diagnostic apparatus in a configurable manner. And
Having a medical examination system. A designation receiving unit that accepts designation of a target position, which is the position of the examination target part of the subject, for an X-ray image;
A distance between the target position and the first reference position based on the target position, the position of the X-ray detector when the X-ray image is taken, and a predetermined first reference position. A calculation unit for calculating
A code generation unit that generates a readable code representing both the distance and the information capable of identifying the subject;
A standard position storage unit that stores in advance a standard position that is a standard target position;
A display control unit that superimposes and displays both the X-ray image and the marker representing the standard position;
I have a,
The designation accepting unit, said can-configured Ru X-ray diagnostic apparatus to accept the standard location designation to the target position as a designated the target position.

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