JP6734429B2 - Magnetic resonance imaging equipment - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) magnetically excites the nuclear spins of a subject placed in a static magnetic field with an RF (Radio Frequency) pulse of Larmor frequency, and with this excitation It is an imaging method that reconstructs an image from a generated NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) signal.

For example, a standardized protocol is defined for the cardiac examination by MRI. For example, a standardized protocol is to collect multiple scout images (Scout) or locator images (Axial), sagittal image (Sagittal), and coronal image (Coronal). The flow of collecting a multi-slice image (Axial multi-slice), which is a cross-section of the body axis, and then collecting a reference cross-sectional image is defined.

The reference cross-sectional image is a cross-sectional image based on the anatomical features of the heart, and includes a left ventricular vertical long-axis image and a left ventricular horizontal long-axis image. ), left (right) ventricular short-axis image (Left/Right ventricular short-axis), left (right) two-chamber long-axis image (Left/Right ventricular 2-chamber long-axis), left (right) three-chamber chamber Long-axis view (Left/Right ventricular 3-chamber long-axis), left (right) ventricular four-chamber long-axis view (Left/Right ventricular 4-chamber long-axis), left (right) ventricular outflow tract view (Left/ Right ventricular outflow tract), aortic valve image (Aorta valve), pulmonary artery valve image (Pulmonary valve), and the like. The method of setting the reference cross-sectional image is also set for various objects such as the brain, shoulders, and knees.

Japanese Patent No. 5323194

SCMR (Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance), "Standardized protocol for cardiac MRI examination by SCMR", [online], [Search on August 20, 2014], Internet <URL: http://scmr.jp/mri/pdf/ scmr_protocols_2007_jp.pdf>, <URL: http://scmr.jp/mri/pdf/scmr_protocols_2007.pdf>

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that allows an operator to easily perform positioning of a cross-sectional image.

The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus of the embodiment includes a detection unit and a display control unit. The detection unit detects the cross-sectional positions of the plurality of cross-sectional images from the collected data. The display control unit generates layout information in which a layout to be displayed on the positioning screen is defined according to the inspection protocol, and displays all or a part of the plurality of sectional images based on the sectional positions of the plurality of sectional images. , Is displayed on the positioning screen according to the layout information.

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of processing executed by the MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that receives a layout according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting a layout according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in step S10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit by the display control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of changing a layout associated with a protocol according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when an inspection is carried out in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection protocol according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection protocol according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning screen displayed on the display unit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning screen displayed on the display unit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning screen displayed on the display unit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning screen displayed on the display unit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example before and after a change of the inspection protocol according to the first modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection protocol according to a second modification of the second embodiment.

Hereinafter, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as an “MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) apparatus”) will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments are not limited to the following embodiments. In addition, in principle, the contents described in each embodiment and each modification can be similarly applied to other embodiments and other modifications.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the MRI apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the MRI apparatus 100 includes a static magnetic field magnet 1, a gradient magnetic field coil 2, a gradient magnetic field power source 3, a bed 4, a bed control unit 5, a transmission coil 6, and a transmission unit 7. The receiving coil 8, the receiving unit 9, the sequence control unit 10, and the computer 20 are provided. It should be noted that the MRI apparatus 100 does not include the subject P (for example, a human body) shown in a dotted frame in FIG. The configuration shown in FIG. 1 is merely an example. For example, the sequence control unit 10 and each unit in the computer 20 may be integrated or separated as appropriate.

The static magnetic field magnet 1 is a magnet formed in a hollow cylindrical shape (including one in which a cross section orthogonal to the axis of the cylinder is elliptical), and generates a static magnetic field in the internal space. The static magnetic field magnet 1 is, for example, a permanent magnet. The static magnetic field magnet 1 may be a superconducting magnet. When the static magnetic field magnet 1 is a superconducting magnet, the MRI apparatus 100 includes a static magnetic field power supply (not shown), and this static magnetic field power supply supplies a current to the static magnetic field magnet 1. At this time, the static magnetic field magnet 1 is excited by being supplied with a current from the static magnetic field power supply. Further, the static magnetic field power source may be provided separately from the MRI apparatus 100.

The gradient magnetic field coil 2 is a coil formed in a hollow cylindrical shape (including an elliptical cross section orthogonal to the axis of the cylinder), and is arranged inside the static magnetic field magnet 1. The gradient magnetic field coil 2 is formed by combining three coils corresponding to X, Y, and Z axes that are orthogonal to each other, and these three coils are individually supplied with current from the gradient magnetic field power supply 3. In response, a gradient magnetic field whose magnetic field strength changes along each of the X, Y, and Z axes is generated. The gradient magnetic fields of the X, Y, and Z axes generated by the gradient coil 2 are, for example, a slice gradient magnetic field Gs, a phase encoding gradient magnetic field Ge, and a read gradient magnetic field Gr. The gradient magnetic field power supply 3 supplies a current to the gradient magnetic field coil 2.

The bed 4 includes a top plate 4a on which the subject P is placed, and under the control of the bed control unit 5, the top plate 4a is placed on the subject P while the cavity of the gradient magnetic field coil 2 ( Insert it into the imaging port). Usually, the bed 4 is installed so that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the central axis of the static magnetic field magnet 1. Under the control of the computer 20, the couch controller 5 drives the couch 4 to move the couchtop 4a in the longitudinal direction and the vertical direction.

The transmission coil 6 is arranged inside the gradient magnetic field coil 2, receives the supply of the RF pulse from the transmission unit 7, and generates a high frequency magnetic field. The transmitter 7 supplies the transmitter coil 6 with an RF pulse corresponding to the Larmor frequency determined by the type of target atom and the magnetic field strength.

The receiving coil 8 is arranged inside the gradient magnetic field coil 2 and receives a magnetic resonance signal (hereinafter, appropriately “MR signal”) emitted from the subject P under the influence of the high frequency magnetic field. When receiving the MR signal, the receiving coil 8 outputs the received MR signal to the receiving unit 9.

The above-mentioned transmitting coil 6 and receiving coil 8 are merely examples. It may be configured by combining one or more of a coil having only a transmitting function, a coil having only a receiving function, or a coil having a transmitting/receiving function.

The receiving unit 9 detects the MR signal output from the receiving coil 8 and generates MR data based on the detected MR signal. Specifically, the receiving unit 9 digitally converts the MR signal output from the receiving coil 8 to generate MR data. In addition, the receiving unit 9 transmits the generated MR data to the sequence control unit 10. The receiver 9 may be provided on the gantry device side including the static magnetic field magnet 1, the gradient magnetic field coil 2, and the like.

The sequence controller 10 drives the gradient magnetic field power supply 3, the transmitter 7 and the receiver 9 based on the sequence information transmitted from the computer 20 to image the subject P. Here, the sequence information is information that defines a procedure for performing imaging. The sequence information includes the strength of the current supplied by the gradient magnetic field power supply 3 to the gradient magnetic field coil 2 and the timing of supplying the current, the strength of the RF pulse supplied by the transmitter 7 to the transmitter coil 6, the timing of applying the RF pulse, and the reception. The timing and the like at which the unit 9 detects the MR signal is defined. For example, the sequence control unit 10 is an electronic circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an integrated circuit such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

Note that the sequence control unit 10 drives the gradient magnetic field power supply 3, the transmission unit 7, and the reception unit 9 to image the subject P. As a result, when MR data is received from the reception unit 9, the received MR data is sent to the computer 20. Forward.

The computer 20 controls the MRI apparatus 100 as a whole and generates an image. The computer 20 includes an interface unit 21, an image generation unit 22, a storage unit 23, an input unit 24, a display unit 25, and a control unit 26.

The interface unit 21 transmits sequence information to the sequence control unit 10 and receives MR data from the sequence control unit 10. Further, when the interface unit 21 receives the MR data, the interface unit 21 stores the received MR data in the storage unit 23. The MR data stored in the storage unit 23 is arranged in the k space by the control unit 26. As a result, the storage unit 23 stores the k-space data.

The image generation unit 22 reads the k-space data from the storage unit 23, and performs reconstruction processing such as Fourier transform on the read k-space data to generate an image.

The storage unit 23 stores the MR data received by the interface unit 21, the k-space data arranged in the k-space by the control unit 26, the image data generated by the image generation unit 22, and the like. The storage unit 23 is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like.

The input unit 24 receives various instructions and information input from the operator. The input unit 24 is, for example, a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball, or an input device such as a keyboard. The display unit 25 displays various GUIs (Graphical User Interfaces), images generated by the image generation unit 22, and the like under the control of the control unit 26. The display unit 25 is, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display.

The control unit 26 performs overall control of the MRI apparatus 100 and controls imaging, image generation, image display, and the like. For example, the control unit 26 receives the input of the imaging condition on the GUI, generates the sequence information according to the received imaging condition, and transmits the generated sequence information to the sequence control unit 10. For example, the control unit 26 is an integrated circuit such as ASIC or FPGA, or an electronic circuit such as CPU or MPU. As will be described later, the control unit 26 includes each unit for allowing the operator to easily change the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image.

Here, the outline of the processing by the MRI apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. For example, in the first embodiment, when performing one inspection, one or more protocols are set. A set of protocols (protocol group) set for inspection is an inspection protocol. In one protocol, for example, imaging according to one pulse sequence is performed. Alternatively, in one protocol, for example, imaging according to one pulse sequence and image processing using imaging data are performed.

The MRI apparatus 100 performs various operations according to one or more protocols included in one examination protocol. First, prior to the collection of the reference cross-sectional image in the imaging scan, it is necessary to set the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image according to the position, angle, etc. of the target site (target), which varies depending on the subject. Therefore, for example, the MRI apparatus 100 defines a protocol (name is “cross-section detection”) in which various imaging conditions when collecting a multi-slice image, various conditions when detecting a cross-sectional position of a reference cross-sectional image, and the like are determined. Protocol), a multi-slice image acquisition and a cross-section position detection process using the multi-slice image are performed. Note that, hereinafter, the protocol whose name is "section detection protocol" is simply referred to as "section detection protocol". For example, the MRI apparatus 100 collects multi-slice images according to the cross-section detection protocol, and stores the collected multi-slice images in the storage unit 23. Then, for example, the MRI apparatus 100 automatically detects the cross-sectional positions of the plurality of reference cross-sectional images from the multi-slice image according to the cross-section detection protocol. Explaining with a more detailed example, the MRI apparatus 100 automatically detects a characteristic site relating to the target site from the multi-slice image, and calculates the sectional position by using the position of the automatically detected characteristic site. Is automatically detected. For example, the MRI apparatus 100 detects cross-sectional positions of 14 types of reference cross-sectional images. The cross-sectional positions of the 14 types of cross-sectional images referred to here are the left ventricular vertical long-axis image, the left ventricular horizontal long-axis image, the left (right) chamber short-axis image, the left (right) chamber two-chamber long-axis image, the left ( These are the cross-sectional positions of the right) three-chamber long-axis view of the chamber, the left (right) four-chamber long-axis view, the left (right) outflow tract image, the aortic valve image, and the pulmonary valve image. Then, for example, the MRI apparatus 100 generates a plurality of reference sectional images based on the automatically detected sectional positions, and displays a positioning screen on which the generated plurality of reference sectional images are arranged. At this time, the MRI apparatus 100 indicates, on the reference cross-sectional image, a mark indicating the position of the characteristic site with respect to the target site, and the position and direction where the cross-sectional position of this reference cross-sectional image and the cross-sectional position of another reference cross-sectional image intersect. A mark indicating the position and direction of the intersecting line is displayed. Here, the operator operates the input unit 24 while checking the reference cross-sectional image displayed on the positioning screen to change the position of the characteristic portion by changing the position of the mark indicating the characteristic portion, The cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image can be changed by changing the position and direction of the cross line by changing the mark indicating the position and direction of the cross line. In this way, the operator can confirm and change the reference cross-sectional image on the positioning screen.

The imaging scan is, for example, imaging (also referred to as “main imaging”) for collecting images mainly used for diagnosis, and the preparatory scan typically precedes this imaging scan, for example. Imaging (also referred to as “preparation imaging”).

Further, one examination protocol includes, for example, at least one or more protocols in which imaging conditions and the like when performing an imaging scan are defined. That is, at least one imaging scan is performed in one examination. Hereinafter, the case where the target part is the “heart” will be described as an example, but the target part is not limited to the “heart”. In the examination of the cardiac function of the left ventricle of the heart, as an example, an imaging scan for collecting a short axis image of the left ventricle, an imaging scan for collecting a long axis image of the left chamber of two chambers, a long axis of the left chamber of three chambers An imaging scan for collecting an image and an imaging scan for collecting a left ventricular four-chamber long-axis image are performed. Further, for example, in the examination of the right ventricle system of the heart, as an example, an imaging scan for collecting a right ventricular short-axis image, an imaging scan for collecting a right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image, a right ventricle three-chamber length An imaging scan for collecting an axial image and an imaging scan for collecting a right ventricle four-chamber long-axis image are executed. That is, the type of the reference cross-sectional image acquired by the imaging scan in a certain examination depends on the purpose of the examination. Here, since the type of examination performed to achieve the purpose differs depending on the purpose of the examination, the type of reference cross-sectional image acquired by the imaging scan in a certain examination depends on the type of the examination. It can be said that it is a thing.

The multi-slice image is data including a plurality of slice images acquired by the 2D sequence. The multi-slice image is an example of three-dimensional data. Note that volume data collected by the 3D sequence can be used instead of the multi-slice image. The 2D sequence referred to here is a pulse sequence that collects a two-dimensional cross-sectional image by performing encoding in the phase encoding direction and the readout direction at one or a plurality of positions along the slice direction. The 3D sequence is a pulse sequence that collects three-dimensional volume data by performing encoding not only in the phase encoding direction and the readout direction but also in the slice direction. Further, the 2D sequence and the 3D sequence may be radial scan sequences that collect the readout direction at various angles.

Then, the MRI apparatus 100 generates a plurality of types of reference sectional images corresponding to the plurality of automatically detected sectional positions from the multi-slice image. For example, the MRI apparatus 100 generates the above 14 types of reference cross-sectional images.

Here, in most examinations, the number of types of reference cross-sectional images (reference cross-sectional images of the observation target) observed by an operator such as a doctor or a radiological technologist on the positioning screen is often several at most. Therefore, in a certain inspection, when all kinds of generated reference cross-sectional images are displayed on the display unit 25 for positioning of the reference cross-sectional image, the reference cross-section that is not an observation target and is considered to have a low relationship with the inspection. The image is also displayed, and the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target and the non-observation reference cross-sectional image that are considered to have a high relationship with the inspection are displayed in a mixed manner. Therefore, it may be difficult for the operator to observe the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target. In this case, the operator may not be able to easily position the reference sectional image.

Therefore, the MRI apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment assists in creating a layout in which, of the generated reference cross-sectional images, a reference cross-sectional image of a type corresponding to the type of examination being performed is displayed. Then, the MRI apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment causes the display unit 25 to display a reference cross-sectional image of a type corresponding to the type of examination being performed among the generated reference cross-sectional images using the created layout. As a result, the displayed reference cross-sectional image is narrowed down to the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target. Therefore, according to the MRI apparatus 100, the operator can easily observe the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target in the examination being performed. Therefore, according to the MRI apparatus 100, the operator can easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

Then, when the positioning of the cross-sectional positions of the plurality of reference cross-sectional images displayed on the display unit 25 is completed, the MRI apparatus 100 executes the imaging scan at the completed cross-sectional position.

Next, an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 26 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 26 according to the first embodiment. As shown in the example of FIG. 2, the control unit 26 includes a reception unit 26a, a detection unit 26b, a display control unit 26c, and a changing unit 26d. The storage unit 23 also stores a layout table 23a.

The reception unit 26a receives the type, size, and arrangement of the reference cross-sectional image, and stores the received type, size, and arrangement of the reference cross-sectional image in the storage unit 23. For example, the reception unit 26a causes the display unit 25 to display a screen for receiving the size of the reference sectional image, the combination of the types of the reference sectional images, and the arrangement of the reference sectional images. Note that the size of the reference cross-sectional image refers to, for example, the size of the display area in which the reference cross-sectional image is displayed. Then, the reception unit 26a receives layout information indicating the size of the reference cross-sectional image, the combination of types of the reference cross-sectional images, and the arrangement of the reference cross-sectional images via the screen displayed on the display unit 25. That is, the layout information is information in which the layout (the size of the reference sectional image, the combination of the types of the reference sectional images, and the arrangement of the reference sectional images) is defined. Then, the reception unit 26a registers the received layout information in the layout table 23a. A plurality of layout information is registered in the layout table 23a by the reception unit 26a. Therefore, a plurality of layout information defining the layout of the reference cross-sectional image displayed on the positioning screen is registered in the layout table 23a. The layout table 23a will be described later.

The detection unit 26b detects a plurality of cross-sectional positions from the collected data, for example, a multi-slice image. For example, the detection unit 26b acquires from the storage unit 23 the multi-slice images collected in the preparation scan and stored in the storage unit 23, and automatically detects the cross-sectional positions of a plurality of types of reference cross-sectional images from the acquired multi-slice images. To do. For example, the detection unit 26b detects the cross-sectional positions of the above-mentioned 14 types of cross-sectional images. Then, the detection unit 26b stores the plurality of automatically detected cross-sectional positions in the storage unit 23.

The display control unit 26c displays all or part of the plurality of reference cross-sectional images generated based on the plurality of cross-sectional positions on the positioning screen according to at least one layout information among the plurality of layout information.

One aspect of the display control unit 26c will be described. The display control unit 26c generates a plurality of types of reference sectional images corresponding to a plurality of sectional positions. For example, the display control unit 26c first acquires a multi-slice image and a plurality of cross-sectional positions from the storage unit 23, and from the acquired multi-slice image, performs a plurality of cross-sectional positions acquired by MPR (Multi-Planar Reconstruction) processing. Each of a plurality of types of reference cross-sectional images corresponding to each is generated.

Then, the display control unit 26c causes the display unit 25 to display a reference cross-sectional image of a type corresponding to the type of inspection among the plurality of types of reference cross-sectional images. At this time, the display control unit 26c, on the reference cross-sectional image, a mark indicating a characteristic part relating to the heart, and the position and direction of the intersecting line between the cross-sectional position of this reference cross-sectional image and the cross-sectional position of another reference cross-sectional image. Is displayed. Here, as described above, the operator operates the input unit 24 to change the position of the mark indicating the characteristic portion or the position and direction of the intersecting line to change the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image. Can be changed.

When the operator changes the position of the characteristic portion or the position and direction of the intersecting line in a certain reference cross-sectional image, the changing unit 26d uses the changed position of the characteristic region or the position and direction of the intersecting line. The cross-sectional position of the related reference cross-sectional image is calculated. Then, the changing unit 26b stores the calculated cross-sectional position in the storage unit 23. Then, the changing unit 26d generates a reference cross-sectional image corresponding to the calculated cross-sectional position, and the reference cross-sectional image before the cross-sectional position is changed to the newly generated reference cross-sectional image after the cross-sectional position is changed. Update the display. For example, the changing unit 26d first acquires the multi-slice image from the storage unit 23. Then, the changing unit 26d generates a reference cross-sectional image corresponding to the calculated cross-sectional position from the multi-slice image by MPR processing, and changes the reference cross-sectional image before the cross-sectional position is changed to the reference cross-sectional image after the cross-sectional position is changed. The display is updated to the newly generated reference sectional image of.

In this embodiment, layout information is registered regardless of the timing at which the inspection is performed. For example, the layout information is registered in advance before the inspection is performed. Therefore, a flow of processing for registering layout information, which is executed by the MRI apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the MRI apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

First, the reception unit 26a causes the display unit 25 to display a screen (reception screen) for receiving registration of layout information (step S1). FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the screen 30 that receives the layout information according to the first embodiment. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 4, the reception unit 26a causes the display unit 25 to display the screen 30. The screen 30 includes areas 31 to 33 and buttons 34 to 37. In the area 31, a list of layout names is displayed. The area 32 is an area where a layout is created. The area 33 is an area in which the correlation diagram 33a of the reference sectional image is displayed. The button 34 is a button described as “new”. The button 35 is a button described as “edit”. The button 36 is a button described as “delete”. The button 37 is a button described as “save”.

Here, the correlation diagram 33a of the reference cross-sectional image will be described. The correlation diagram 33a shows an example of a general procedure for manually setting a reference cross-sectional image.

The correlation diagram 33a shown in the example of FIG. 4 is a multi-slice image including five axial body cross-sectional images (axial), one left ventricular vertical major axis image (LVLA), and one left ventricular horizontal major axis. Image (LHLA), 5 left ventricular short-axis images (LSA), 1 left ventricle dual-chamber long-axis image (L2ch), 1 left ventricle 3-chamber long-axis image (L3ch), 1 left ventricle 4-chamber long-axis image (L4ch), 5 right ventricular short-axis images (RSA), 1 right ventricle 2-chamber long-axis image (R2ch), 1 right ventricle 3-chamber long-axis image (R3ch), 1 One right ventricular four-chamber long-axis image (R4ch), one left ventricular outflow tract image (LVOT), one right ventricular outflow tract image (RVOT), one aortic valve image (AV), one Includes pulmonary valve image (PV).

The correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular vertical long-axis image is set from one of the five body-axis transverse cross-sectional images. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the sectional position of the left ventricular vertical long axis image is set from the left ventricle horizontal long axis image. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the sectional positions of the five left ventricular short axis images are set from the left ventricular horizontal long axis image. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular three-chamber long-axis image is set from one left ventricular short-axis image of the five left ventricular short-axis images. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the sectional position of the left ventricular four-cavity long-axis image is set from the other left ventricular short-axis image of the five left-ventricular short-axis images. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the sectional position of the left ventricular two-chamber long-axis image is set from the other left ventricular short-axis image of the five left ventricular short-axis images.

In addition, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular four-chamber long-axis image to the right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image is set. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional positions of the five right ventricular short-axis images are set from the right ventricle two-chamber long-axis images. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the right ventricular three-chamber long-axis image is set from one right ventricular short-axis image of the five right-ventricular short-axis images. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the sectional position of the right ventricular four-cavity long-axis image is set from the other one right ventricular short-axis image among the five right-ventricular short-axis images.

Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular outflow tract image is set from the left ventricular three-chamber long-axis image. Also, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the aortic valve image is set from the left ventricular outflow tract image. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the right ventricular outflow tract image is set from the right ventricle three-chamber long-axis image. Further, the correlation diagram 33a shows that the cross-sectional position of the pulmonary valve image is set from the right ventricular outflow tract image.

Further, in the correlation diagram 33a, in order to allow the operator to easily create a layout in which the displayed reference cross-sectional image is narrowed down to the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target, the reference cross-sectional images are assigned to the groups for each inspection type. It is divided. In the example of FIG. 4, the correlation diagram 33a shows the reference of the left ventricle of the heart in the group of “left ventricular system cross section” in which the reference cross-sectional image of the left ventricle of the heart is an observation target (inspection of the left ventricle of the heart). It shows that a cross-sectional image is included. Further, in the correlation diagram 33a, the group of the “right ventricular system cross-section” in which the reference cross-sectional image of the right ventricle of the heart is an observation target (the examination of the right ventricle of the heart) includes the reference cross-sectional image of the right ventricle of the heart Indicates that In addition, it is a test for measuring the flow velocity of blood flow near the valve and checking the movement of the valve itself. , A reference cross-sectional image including a valve is included.

In the example of FIG. 4, the operator can operate the input unit 24 to register new layout information, edit registered layout information, and delete registered layout information.

Here, a case where the operator registers new layout information will be described. For example, when registering new layout information, the operator operates the input unit 24 and presses the button 34. When the button 34 is pressed, the reception unit 26a causes the area 31 to display a text box in which a layout name can be input. Then, the operator operates the input unit 24 to input the layout name in this text box. For example, the operator inputs “for right ventricular heart function analysis” in the text box.

Then, the operator refers to the relationship indicated by the correlation diagram 33a of the reference cross-sectional images and uses the mouse of the input unit 24 to set one of the reference cross-sectional images from the correlation diagram 33a of the reference cross-sectional images to the region 32. Place by dragging and dropping. As a result, the reception unit 26a receives the type and arrangement of the reference cross sectional image types, sizes, and arrangements defined by the layout information. The operator selects a plurality of reference cross-sectional images from the correlation diagram 33a by using the mouse of the input unit 24, and drags and drops the plurality of reference cross-sectional images to the region 32 at a time to arrange them. Can also Further, the operator selects all the reference cross-sectional images included in the selected group in the region 32 by selecting the group described in the correlation diagram 33a (for example, the group of the examination "left ventricular system cross section"). You can also do it.

Here, for example, in the examination of the right ventricle system of the heart, from the left to the right on the positioning screen, the right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image (R2ch), right ventricle short-axis image (RSA), right-ventricular four-chamber long axis It is assumed that the operator creates a layout in which an image (R4ch) and a right ventricle three-chamber long-axis image (R3ch) are displayed. In this case, the operator arranges each reference cross-sectional image as shown in the example of FIG. That is, as shown in the example of FIG. 5, the operator confirms the reference cross-sectional images divided into the “right ventricular system cross-section” group shown in the correlation diagram 33a and the procedure for setting the reference cross-sectional images while checking the correlation diagram. The left ventricle long chamber image, the right ventricle short axis image, the right ventricle four chamber long axis image, and the right ventricle three chamber long axis image are dragged and dropped from 33a, and the right ventricle two chamber lengths are displayed from left to right. An axis image, a right ventricular short axis image, a right ventricle four-chamber long axis image, and a right ventricle three-chamber long axis image are arranged in the region 32.

When the right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image, right ventricle short-axis image, right-ventricular four-chamber long-axis image, and right-ventricular three-chamber long-axis image are arranged in the region 32, the reception unit 26a determines that the type of the reference cross-sectional image is A right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image, a right ventricle short-axis image, a right ventricle four-chamber long-axis image, and a right ventricle three-chamber long-axis image are accepted. Here, when arranging these reference cross-sectional images in the region 32, the operator desires that these reference cross-sectional images be arranged at desired positions on the positioning screen from left to right. These reference cross-sectional images are arranged at positions on the region 32 corresponding to the positions of. Then, the reception unit 26a determines, as the arrangement of the reference cross-sectional images, each of the right ventricle two-chamber long axis image, the right ventricle short-axis image, the right ventricle four-chamber long axis image, and the right ventricle three-chamber long axis image on the region 32. Accept the position. As described above, the MRI apparatus 100 presents the operator with the reference cross-sectional images of the observation target in the examination of the right ventricle system of the heart (reference cross-sectional images divided into the “right ventricular system cross-section” group). The operator can easily create a layout such that the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target in the examination of the right ventricle system is displayed. Further, since the MRI apparatus 100 presents the operator with the manual setting procedure of the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target in the examination of the right ventricle system of the heart, the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target in the examination of the right ventricle system of the heart, When manually setting the reference cross-sectional image, the operator can easily create a layout in which the reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image is displayed. In addition, for example, displaying the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target close to the manual setting procedure together on the positioning screen even if it is not the observation target is to confirm the position of the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target. Is effective in. Therefore, the system for creating a layout from the correlation diagram 33a is also effective as a support for creating such a practical layout.

When changing the size of the reference cross-sectional image, the operator operates the input unit 24 to change the size of the reference cross-sectional image arranged in the area 32. In this way, the receiving unit 26a receives the size of the reference sectional image defined by the layout information.

Then, the reception unit 26a determines whether or not the button 37 has been pressed by the operator (step S2). When it is determined that the button 37 has not been pressed (step S2; No), the reception unit 26a performs the determination process of step S2 again.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the button 37 is pressed (step S2; Yes), the reception unit 26a registers the layout information. For example, in the example of FIG. 5, when the button 37 is pressed, the reception unit 26a causes the right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image, right ventricle short-axis image, right-ventricular four-chamber long-axis image, and right-ventricular three-chamber length. The four types of axis images and the layout information indicating the sizes and arrangements of the four types of reference cross-sectional images are registered in the layout table 23a in association with the input layout name “for right ventricular cardiac function analysis”. Step S3).

Here, the data structure of the layout table 23a will be described. The layout table 23a has items of "layout name" and "layout information". Various information regarding one layout is registered in one record of the layout table 23a. The layout name is registered in the "layout name" item by the reception unit 26a. The layout information is registered in the "layout information" item by the reception unit 26a.

Here, a case where the button 37 is pressed in the example of FIG. 5 will be described. In this case, the reception unit 26a uses the "layout name" item for "right ventricular system cardiac function analysis" and the "layout information" item for the right ventricular dual-chamber long-axis image, right-ventricular short-axis image, and right-ventricular image. A record in which four types of four-chamber long-axis images and right ventricular three-chamber long-axis images and layout information indicating the sizes and arrangements of these four types of reference cross-sectional images are registered is newly added to the layout table 23a. The new layout information is registered by the method as described above.

Here, a case where the operator edits the registered layout information will be described. In this case, the operator operates the input unit 24 to select the layout name of the layout information to be edited from the list of layout names displayed in the area 31. When the layout name is selected, the reception unit 26a refers to the layout table 23a and identifies the record registered in the item of "layout name" for the selected layout name. Then, the reception unit 26a acquires the layout information registered in the "layout information" item of the specified record.

Then, the reception unit 26a causes the area 32 to display the layout (size of the reference cross-sectional image, combination of types, and arrangement) indicated by the acquired layout information. When the operator presses the button 35 while the layout is displayed, the reception unit 26a changes the displayed layout to a state in which the operator can edit the layout. Then, the operator operates the input unit 24 to edit the layout by changing the size of the reference cross-sectional image displayed in the area 32, changing the combination of types, or changing the arrangement, When the editing is completed, the button 37 is pressed. When the button 37 is pressed, the reception unit 26a updates the layout information indicated by the layout before editing registered in the layout table 23a with the layout information indicated by the edited layout. The registered layout information is edited by the method described above.

Next, a case where the operator deletes the registered layout information will be described. In this case, the operator operates the input unit 24 to select the layout name of the layout information to be deleted from the list of layout names displayed in the area 31. When the layout name is selected, the reception unit 26a refers to the layout table 23a and identifies the record registered in the item of "layout name" for the selected layout name. Then, the reception unit 26a acquires the layout information registered in the "layout information" item of the specified record.

Then, the reception unit 26a displays the layout indicated by the acquired layout information in the area 32. When the button is pressed by the operator while the layout is displayed, the reception unit 26a deletes the previously specified record from the layout table 23a. The registered layout information is deleted by the method described above.

Heretofore, an example of various processes of registering new layout information, editing registered layout information, and deleting registered layout information has been described.

Here, in the present embodiment, in the cross-section detection protocol, the operator considers the type of inspection of the inspection protocol to which the cross-section detection protocol belongs, and according to which layout information the reference cross-sectional image is detected or displayed. The operator presets whether or not to do it. Then, the cross-section detection protocol in which the layout information is set is stored in the storage unit 23 as a part of the inspection protocol. For example, in the cross-section detection protocol, the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target that is considered to have a high relationship with the inspection of the inspection protocol to which the cross-section detection protocol belongs is displayed, and the reference cross-sectional image that is not the observation target is not displayed. Layout information indicating a layout is set.

For example, the layout information with the layout name “for right ventricular cardiac function analysis” is set for the cross-section detection protocol that belongs to “right ventricular examination”, which is a generic term for a group of protocols for examining the right ventricle of the heart. To be done.

Next, a flow of processing executed by the MRI apparatus 100 when performing an inspection will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when the inspection is performed in the first embodiment. Here, it is assumed that the cross-section detection protocol is a protocol that is defined to detect the cross-section positions of the above-described 14 types of reference cross-sectional images, but the cross-section detection protocol is the layout set in this protocol. The protocol may be defined to detect the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the information and generate the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information. In this case, the number of sectional positions to be detected and the number of reference sectional images to be generated can be reduced, and the processing amount can be reduced.

As shown in the example of FIG. 6, the reception unit 26a receives the setting of the inspection protocol for the inspection to be performed (step S10).

A case where the setting of the inspection protocol is accepted for the inspection to be performed will be described. First, the reception unit 26a causes the display unit 25 to display a screen for receiving the setting of the examination protocol. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the screen 40 displayed in step S10 according to the first embodiment. For example, in step S10, the reception unit 26a causes the display unit 25 to display the screen 40. The screen 40 includes areas 41 to 44 and a button 45.

In the area 41, a human body model diagram that accepts selection for each imaging region is displayed. In the area 42, a list of generic names of a group of imaging protocols (protocol group) preset for the imaging region selected in the area 41 is displayed. In the area 43, a list of the names of the protocols included in the protocol group preset for the generic name selected in the area 42 is displayed. In addition to the protocol name, various imaging conditions are also displayed in the area 43. In the area 44, the names of the protocols included in the examination protocol set for the examination to be performed are displayed. On this display screen 40, the operator selects a region 41, a region 42, and a region 43 in this order in accordance with the hierarchical structure to set a desired protocol to be executed in a certain examination.

For example, when the operator operates the input unit 24 to select a rectangle corresponding to “heart” on the area 41, the reception unit 26a displays a list of generic names of imaging protocols for “heart” in the area 42. To display. Subsequently, when the operator operates the input unit 24 to select “right ventricular system test”, which is a general term for a protocol group for inspecting the right ventricle of the heart, on the region 42, the reception unit 26a displays A list of protocol names and imaging conditions included in the protocol group indicated by the “right ventricular examination” is displayed in the area 43. In the example of FIG. 7, the reception unit 26a has the “Locator”, “Map”, “Shimming”, “section detection protocol”, “R2ch-cine”, “RSA-cine”, “R4ch-cine”, “R3ch”. "-Cine" is displayed in the area 43.

Here, "Locator" is the name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for collecting locator images are defined. Further, “Map” is a name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions are defined when collecting sensitivity maps indicating the respective sensitivities of a plurality of receiving coils 8. Further, “Shimming” is a name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions at the time of shimming (static magnetic field distribution correction and center frequency setting) are defined. “R2ch-cine” is a name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for performing cine imaging of a right ventricular two-chamber long-axis image are defined. “RSA-cine” is a name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for performing cine imaging of a right ventricular short-axis image are defined. "R4ch-cine" is the name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for performing cine imaging of the right ventricle four-chamber long-axis image are defined. “R3ch-cine” is a name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for performing cine imaging of the right ventricular three-chamber long-axis image are defined. In the following description, the protocol whose name is "Locator", the protocol whose name is "Map", the protocol whose name is "Shimming", the protocol whose name is "R2ch-cine", and the name "RSA-cine" , A protocol whose name is “R4ch-cine”, and a protocol whose name is “R3ch-cine” are simply referred to as “Locator”, “Map”, “Shimming”, “R2ch-cine”, and “R2ch-cine”. These are referred to as "RSA-cine", "R4ch-cine", and "R3ch-cine".

Then, the operator operates the input unit 24 to select one or more protocol names to be set for the examination to be performed from the list of protocol names displayed in the area 43, and press the button 45. Press. Note that, here, a case will be described in which the button 45 is pressed after all the protocol names displayed in the area 43 have been selected. When the button 45 is pressed, the reception unit 26a displays the names of all the selected protocols in the area 44, and sets all the protocols indicated by the selected names as the inspection protocol. By the method as described above, in step S10, the setting of the inspection protocol is accepted for the inspection to be performed. When the operator presses the button 45 in a state in which any one of the generic names of the protocol groups displayed in the area 42 is selected, the accepting unit 26a causes the accepting unit 26a to display all the protocols displayed in the area 44. The name may be displayed in the area 44 and all the protocols indicated by the selected name may be set as the inspection protocol.

Here, each of the set inspection protocols is sequentially extracted, and imaging and image processing are performed to collect various data according to the extracted protocols. For example, in the inspection protocol set in the example of FIG. 7, first, “Locator” is extracted, and according to the extracted “Locator”, locator images are collected, then “Map” is extracted, According to the extracted “Map”, the difference in sensitivity between the plurality of receiving coils 8 is collected. Similarly thereafter, “Shimming”, “section detection protocol”, “R2ch-cine”, “RSA-cine”, “R4ch-cine”, and “R3ch-cine” are sequentially taken out and taken out. Accordingly, various kinds of image pickup and image processing are performed. In addition, in the present embodiment, a protocol in which various kinds of data collection such as imaging and image processing are not performed is referred to as “uncollected protocol”.

Returning to the description of FIG. 6, the sequence control unit 10 determines whether or not there is an uncollected protocol among the protocols included in the set inspection protocol (step S11). As a result, it is determined whether or not to end the inspection. When it is determined that there is an uncollected protocol, that is, when it is determined that the inspection is not ended (step S11; Yes), the sequence control unit 10 selects the protocol with the smallest order from among the uncollected protocols. One is taken out, and imaging is performed according to the taken out protocol (step S12).

Here, the case where the extracted protocol is the cross-section detection protocol will be described. In this case, in step S12, the sequence control unit 10 and the image generation unit 22 execute various processes described below so as to collect the multi-slice images. In the present embodiment, the multi-slice image is, for example, a plurality of body-axis cross-sectional images. In addition, the multi-slice image includes the heart. The sequence control unit 10 performs, for example, ECG (Electro Cardio Gram) synchronization while limiting the acquisition timing to diastole so that MR data of a multi-slice image is acquired under breath-holding. The magnetic field power source 3, the transmitter 7 and the receiver 9 are driven. Then, the sequence control unit 10 transmits the collected MR data to the image generation unit 22 via the interface unit 21. Upon receiving the MR data, the image generation unit 22 generates a multi-slice image using the received MR data, and stores the generated multi-slice image in the storage unit 23. The multi-slice image may be a plurality of sagittal sectional images or coronal sectional images. Further, the sequence control unit 10 uses, for example, 2D FFE (Fast Field Echo) or 2D SSFP (Steady-State Free Precession) to collect MR data of a multi-slice image.

Further, a case will be described in which the extracted protocol is a protocol in which imaging conditions and the like when executing the imaging scan are defined. In this case, in step S12, the sequence controller 10 drives the gradient magnetic field power supply 3, the transmitter 7 and the receiver 9 according to the extracted protocol, and executes an imaging scan using the positioned cross-sectional position. To do. The sequence control unit 10 transmits the MR data obtained as a result of executing the imaging scan to the image generation unit 22 via the interface unit 21. Upon receiving the MR data, the image generation unit 22 generates a reference cross-sectional image using the received MR data, and stores the generated reference cross-sectional image in the storage unit 23.

Then, the sequence control unit 10 determines whether or not the extracted protocol is the cross-section detection protocol (step S13). When it is determined that the extracted protocol is not the cross-section detection protocol (step S13; No), the sequence control unit 10 returns to step S11.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the extracted protocol is the cross-section detection protocol (step S13; Yes), the detection unit 26b detects the cross-sectional position of each of the 14 types of reference cross-sectional images described above (automatic detection). (Step S14). The cross-sectional position will be described. The cross-sectional position means, for example, a position representing a plane in a three-dimensional image space, and is expressed by a plurality of parameters. In the following description, these parameters will be referred to as “positional parameters”. The position parameter is represented by, for example, a central coordinate point o and two orthogonal unit vectors u and v, as shown in the following expressions (1) and (2).

The detection of the cross-sectional position is to obtain the position parameters o, u, v. The detection unit 26b stores the detected position parameter for each reference cross-sectional image in the storage unit 23. The position parameter is not limited to the above-described expression method, and may be expressed not in the three-dimensional image space, but in the three-dimensional device space defined based on the magnetic field center of the MRI apparatus 100, the longitudinal direction of the bed, and the like. Alternatively, three coordinate points may be used instead of the center coordinate point and two orthogonal unit vectors. That is, any expression method may be used as long as the cross-sectional position is geometrically and uniquely determined.

For example, the detection unit 26b may detect mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, pulmonary valve, left (right) ventricular apex, left (right) ventricular outflow tract, left (right) ventricular anterior wall, and other characteristic parts of the heart. Using the peripheral image pattern template, the position of the characteristic part in the multi-slice image is automatically detected by performing template matching with the multi-slice image, and the position parameter of each reference cross-sectional image is determined based on the detected characteristic part. calculate. Here, it is assumed that the template as described above is generated in advance before executing template matching. For example, the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular four-chamber long-axis image, which is one of the reference cross-sectional images, is a plane passing through three points of the mitral valve position m, the tricuspid valve position t, and the left ventricular apex position a. .. That is, the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular four-chamber long-axis image is defined by three positions of the mitral valve position m, the tricuspid valve position t, and the left ventricular apex position a. Here, when the position m of the mitral valve, the position t of the tricuspid valve, and the position a of the left ventricle apex are represented by the following formula (3), a position parameter o indicating the cross-sectional position of the left ventricular four-chamber long-axis image, u and v can be expressed by the following equation (4).

In Expression (4), “(t−m)×v” means an outer product of the vector (t−m) and the vector v, and “((t−m)×v)×v” is It means the outer product of the vector ((tm) x v) and the vector v.

Further, the detection of the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image is not limited to template matching. For example, the detection unit 26b preliminarily constructs a discriminator from the peripheral image pattern of the characteristic portion of the heart by machine learning, and automatically detects the position of the characteristic portion in the multi-slice image using the discriminator. Good. The detection unit 26b can also detect the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image by receiving the input of the position of the characteristic region of the heart by the operator via the input unit 24. However, since this work is extremely complicated and time-consuming, it is usually preferable to automatically detect the detection position of each reference cross-sectional image. In the present embodiment, for example, the number of reference cross-sectional images of the observation target may be smaller than the number of reference cross-sectional images whose cross-sectional position is detected. In such a case, the layout information is used to perform the observation. By displaying only the reference cross-sectional image of the object, the operator can easily position the cross-sectional image.

Next, the display control unit 26c acquires the multi-slice image from the storage unit 23, and performs MPR processing to generate a reference cross-sectional image corresponding to each of the plurality of detected cross-sectional positions from the multi-slice image. For example, the display control unit 26c generates 14 types of reference sectional images (step S15).

Then, the display control unit 26c causes the display unit 25 to display the reference cross-sectional image according to the layout indicated by the layout information set in the cross-section detection protocol (step S16).

Then, the display control unit 26c selects the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information set in the cross-section detection protocol extracted in step S12 from among the plurality of reference cross-sectional images generated in step S15. A positioning screen having the size shown and arranged according to the layout information is generated, and the generated positioning screen is displayed on the display unit 25. The display control unit 26c displays the reference cross-sectional image on which the marks indicating the characteristic portion, the intersection line, and the like are superimposed on the reference cross-sectional image.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning screen displayed on the display unit 25 by the display control unit 26c according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 8, the display control unit 26c displays a right ventricle two-chamber long axis image, a right ventricle short-axis image, a right ventricle four-chamber long axis in the display area of the display unit 25 from left to right. The display unit 25 displays a positioning screen 90 on which the image and the right ventricle three-chamber long-axis image are arranged. As a result, for example, the reference cross-sectional image that is not the observation target is not displayed, and the reference cross-sectional image that is the observation target is displayed. Therefore, the reference cross-sectional image that is the observation target that is considered to be highly related to the inspection is displayed to the operator. It can be observed easily. Therefore, the operator can easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

Next, the changing unit 26d determines whether the notification (positioning completion notification) indicating that the positioning of the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image has been completed from the operator via the input unit 24 (step S17). When it is determined that the positioning completion notification has not been received (step S17; No), the changing unit 26d performs the following process. For example, when the operator changes the position of the characteristic site via the input unit 24, the changing unit 26d changes the reference cross-sectional image in which the cross-sectional position is defined by using the position of the changed characteristic site. The cross-sectional position is newly calculated using the position of the characteristic part of (step S18). In step S18, the changing unit 26d performs the same process even when the position or direction of the intersecting line is changed to newly calculate the cross-sectional position.

For example, the changing unit 26d calculates the three-dimensional position in the three-dimensional image space from the two-dimensional position of the changed characteristic region on the reference cross-sectional image in which the position of the characteristic region has been changed. Then, the changing unit 26d uses the position of the characteristic portion whose position has been changed to define another cross-sectional position based on the calculated three-dimensional position for the other reference cross-sectional image, and performs the same as the above-described formula (4). The cross-sectional position after the change is calculated by calculating the position parameter after the change using the equation (1).

Next, the changing unit 26d uses the multi-slice image acquired in step S12 and the changed cross-sectional position to generate a reference cross-sectional image corresponding to the changed cross-sectional position, and generates the generated reference cross-sectional image. It is displayed on the display unit 25. Then, the changing unit 26d returns to step S17.

When the changing unit 26d determines that the positioning completion notification has been received (step S17; Yes), the changing unit 26d updates the cross-sectional position before the change stored in the storage unit 23 with the cross-sectional position after the change. Then, the process returns to step S11.

When it is determined that there is no uncollected protocol, that is, when the inspection is to be ended (step S11; No), the sequence control unit 10 ends the inspection.

The MRI apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment has been described above. According to the MRI apparatus 100, as described above, the operator can easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

In the first embodiment, when setting the inspection protocol, the layout information set in the cross-section detection protocol can be changed. This case will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of changing the layout associated with the protocol according to the first embodiment. For example, in step S10 shown in FIG. 6, the operator operates the mouse of the input unit 24 to place the cursor (not shown) on the name “section detection protocol” displayed in the area 44. By right-clicking on, the reception unit 26a displays a list of all layout names registered in the layout table 23a, as shown in the example of FIG. Note that the example of FIG. 9 shows that the layout information whose layout name is “for right ventricular heart function analysis” is currently set for the cross-section detection protocol.

Then, when the operator operates the input unit 24 and selects, for example, the layout name “for left ventricular heart function analysis”, the reception unit 26a is set to the cross-section detection protocol displayed in the region 44. The existing layout information is changed to the layout information whose layout name is “for left ventricular heart function analysis” and is saved in the storage unit 23. As described above, when the inspection protocol is set, the layout information set in the section detection protocol can be changed, so that the layout set in the section detection protocol is set just before the inspection, for example. The information can be easily changed by the operator.

Although a case has been described where the reception unit 26a displays a list of all layout names registered in the layout table 23a in step S10, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the layout name and layout information are registered in the layout table 23a for each operator, and in step S10, the reception unit 26a acquires all the layout names registered by the logged-in operator, and a list of the acquired layout names. May be displayed. Here, for example, the operator is unlikely to select layout information other than the layout information registered by the operator. This is because the layout indicated by the other layout information may be the preference of another person, but it is highly likely that it is not the operator's own preference. Therefore, as described above, by presenting only the layout name of the layout information registered by the logged-in operator to the logged-in operator, a layout name that is unlikely to be selected is presented in the first place. Occurrence of a situation can be suppressed.

Further, the layout name and layout information may be registered in the layout table 23a for each operator, and the layout table 23a may be further provided with an item of "selection flag". In this case, when setting the inspection protocol, the operator selects "1" in the "selection flag" item of the record in which the layout information that the operator wants to select is registered in the "layout information" item. Is registered. Also, "0" is registered by the operator in the "selection flag" item of the record in which layout information other than the layout information that the operator wants to select is registered in the "layout information" item. Then, in step S10, the reception unit 26a is registered in the "layout name" item of the record in which "1" is registered in the "selection flag" item among the layout names registered by the logged-in operator. All layout names may be acquired and a list of acquired layout names may be displayed. For example, the operator registers "0" in the item of "selection flag" for layout information which is registered but not favorite, and "1" in the item of "selection flag" for layout information of favorite. By registering “”, the operator can select the layout name of the layout information that the operator likes from among the layout information registered by the logged-in operator, and the layout name that is less likely to be selected is presented. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of such a situation. Also, for example, by suppressing the layouts that have been registered but are rarely used or layouts that are still under study from the options, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a layout name that is unlikely to be selected. can do. In addition, for example, it is useful to prepare a selection flag for each operator because only the layout name preferred by the operator can be presented.

Further, in the first embodiment, in step S16, the display control unit 26c displays the characteristic parts and the intersecting lines that characterize the reference sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information, and does not display the other characteristic parts and the intersecting lines. May be controlled as follows. The combination of a certain reference cross-sectional image and the characteristic portion and the intersection line used to define the cross-sectional position of this reference cross-sectional image has a known relationship. Therefore, for example, the display control unit 26c stores the combination in advance and refers to the combination when displaying the positioning screen according to the layout information, thereby controlling the display/non-display of the characteristic portion and the intersecting line. be able to. For example, in the case of “for right ventricular cardiac function analysis” described above, characteristic sites such as “left ventricular apex” and “left ventricular outflow tract” are used to define the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image included in the layout information. It is not displayed because it does not exist. As described above, it is important not to present redundant information to the user by displaying only the marks indicating the characteristic parts and the intersection lines related to the type of the reference cross-sectional image.

In addition, although the example which controls display/non-display based on a known relationship was demonstrated above, embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the display control unit 26c may receive from the user the setting of which characteristic part or intersection line is to be displayed or not to be displayed.

In the first embodiment, the case where the user drags and drops one of the reference cross-sectional images from the plurality of reference cross-sectional images shown in the correlation diagram 33a in the area 32 in step S1 has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, when the layout name is selected from the list of layout names displayed in the area 31, the reception unit 26a displays the list of types of reference cross-sectional images on the display unit 25 in a state where the user can select it. It may be displayed. In this case, when the type of the reference cross-sectional image is selected by the user, the reception unit 26a arranges the reference cross-sectional images of the type selected by the user in the region 32 in order from the left in a predetermined size.

Further, in the first embodiment, on the screen 30 displayed in step S1, when the user places the reference cross-sectional image in the area 32, the reception unit 26a prompts to place another reference cross-sectional image. The message can be displayed on the display unit 25. For example, when the right ventricular three-chamber long-axis image is arranged in the region 32, it is easy to confirm the cross-sectional position on the close right-ventricular short-axis image in the correlation diagram 33a. A message “It is preferable to arrange RSA” prompting to arrange the axis image is displayed near the area 32. In this way, the reference cross-sectional image used when manually setting the reference cross-sectional image is presented to the operator in a pinpoint by a message, so that a reference cross-sectional image and the reference set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image are set. It is possible to allow the operator to easily create a layout in which a cross-sectional image is displayed. Further, when the reference cross-sectional image is arranged in the area 32, the reception unit 26a sets the reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the arranged reference cross-sectional image among the plurality of reference cross-sections shown in the correlation diagram 33a. The reference cross-sectional image can be highlighted by highlighting. Note that, in the first embodiment, an example of a general procedure for manually setting the reference cross-sectional image has been described as the correlation diagram 33a, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The correlation diagram 33a may be created based on an arbitrary policy. For example, the correlation diagram 33a may express the relationship between a certain reference cross-sectional image and another reference cross-sectional image in which the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image can be easily confirmed.

Further, in the first embodiment, the case where one piece of layout information is set in the section detection protocol has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, a plurality of layout information may be set in the section detection protocol. Here, a case will be described in which N (N is a natural number of 2 or more) pieces of layout information are set in the cross-section detection protocol. In this case, in step S16, the display control unit 26c causes the reference cross-sectional image to be displayed according to the layout indicated by the corresponding layout information in each area when the positioning screen is divided into N pieces. That is, the display control unit 26c displays, on the positioning screen, the reference cross-sectional images according to the layout indicated by each of the N pieces of layout information from the reference cross-sectional images corresponding to the cross-sectional positions detected by the detection unit 26d. be able to. Thereby, for example, when there are a plurality of purposes in one inspection, by setting layout information corresponding to each of the plurality of purposes in the section detection protocol, a reference section image corresponding to the plurality of purposes can be obtained. Can be displayed.

(Second embodiment)
In the MRI apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment described above, a case has been described in which the operator manually sets layout information in the cross-section detection protocol for each type of examination, but the embodiment is not limited to this. Not limited. For example, the MRI apparatus can automatically generate layout information according to the type of examination. Therefore, such an embodiment will be described as a second embodiment.

The MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment does not execute the process of registering the layout information shown in FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Further, in the MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment, instead of the process of step S16 according to the first embodiment, various processes for automatically generating layout information (for example, steps S30 to S40 described below). Various types of processing) are executed. The same components as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

A flow of processing executed by the MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment when performing an inspection will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when the inspection is performed in the second embodiment.

As shown in the example of FIG. 10, each processing of steps S10 to S15 and S17 to 19 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted. 11 and 12 are diagrams illustrating an example of the inspection protocol according to the second embodiment. For example, in step S10, the inspection protocol 50 shown in the example of FIG. 11 and the inspection protocol 60 shown in the example of FIG. 12 are set.

The inspection protocol 50 includes a first protocol (cross-section detection protocol) 51, a second protocol 52 whose name is "LSA-cine", a third protocol 53 whose name is "L2ch-cine", and a fourth protocol It includes a protocol (“RSA-cine”) 54 and a fifth protocol (“R2ch-cine”) 55. Of these protocols 51 to 55, the contents defined in the protocols 51, 54 and 55 are as described above. “LSA-cine” is a name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for performing cine imaging of a left ventricular short-axis image are defined. “L2ch-cine” is the name of a protocol in which various imaging conditions for performing cine imaging of a left ventricular two-chamber long-axis image are defined. In the following description, the protocol whose name is “LSA-cine” and the protocol whose name is “L2ch-cine” are simply referred to as “LSA-cine” and “L2ch-cine”, respectively.

The inspection protocol 60 is a first protocol 61 whose name is “left ventricular system cross-section detection protocol”, a second protocol (“LSA-cine”) 62, and a third protocol (“L2ch-cine”). 63, a fourth protocol 64 whose name is “right ventricular section detection protocol”, a fifth protocol (“RSA-cine”) 65, and a sixth protocol (“R2ch-cine”) 66. .. Among the protocols 61 to 66, the contents defined in the protocols 62, 63, 65 and 66 are as described above. The protocol 61 is a protocol in which various imaging conditions for collecting multi-slice images and various conditions for detecting cross-sectional positions of seven types of reference cross-sectional images using multi-slice images are defined. The seven types of reference cross-sectional images referred to here are, for example, types of left ventricular vertical long-axis image, left ventricular horizontal long-axis image, left ventricular short-axis image, left ventricular two-chamber long-axis image, left ventricular three-chamber length It is an axial image, a left-chamber four-chamber long-axis image, and seven reference cross-sectional images that are left-ventricular outflow tract images. In addition, the protocol 64 is a protocol that defines various imaging conditions when collecting multi-slice images and various conditions when detecting cross-sectional positions of five types of reference cross-sectional images using multi-slice images. is there. The five types of reference cross-sectional images referred to here include, for example, right ventricular short-axis image, right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image, right ventricle three-chamber long-axis image, right ventricle four-chamber long-axis image, and right It is five reference cross-sectional images which are chamber outflow path images.

In the present embodiment, the protocol 61 and the protocol 64 are treated in the same manner as the “section detection protocol”. For example, when the protocol 61 or the protocol 64 is extracted in step S12, the sequence control unit 10 determines in step S13 that the extracted protocol 61 or protocol 64 is the cross-section detection protocol.

Then, in the present embodiment, in step S30, the display control unit 26c determines that the cross-section detection protocol is included in the inspection protocols set in step S10, in the order of the protocols after the protocol extracted in step S12. It is determined whether there is any (step S30).

For example, when the inspection protocol 50 is set in step S10 and the protocol 51 is taken out in step S12, the display control unit 26c detects the cross-sections in the protocols 52 to 55 in order after the protocol 51. Judge that there is no protocol. In addition, when the inspection protocol 60 is set in step S10 and the protocol 61 is extracted in step S12, the display control unit 26c detects the cross-sections in the protocols 62 to 65 in the order after the protocol 61. It is determined that the protocol is the protocol 64.

When it is determined that there is a cross-section detection protocol (step S30; Yes), the display control unit 26c selects the cross-section detection protocol determined to be step S30 from the protocol in the order next to the protocol extracted in step S12. The protocols up to the protocol immediately before the protocol are acquired (step S31).

Then, the display control unit 26c identifies the type of the reference cross-sectional image acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the acquired protocol (step S32). Then, the display control unit 26c refers to the correlation diagram 33a stored in the storage unit 23, and when manually setting the reference cross-sectional image, the display control unit 26c is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image whose type is specified in step S32. The type of the reference cross-sectional image to be specified is specified (step S33). The process of step S33 may be omitted.

Then, the display control unit 26c generates layout information indicating a layout in which the reference cross-sectional images indicated by the types specified in step S32 and step S33 are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right (step S34).

Then, the display control unit 26c displays the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information generated in step S34, out of the plurality of types of reference cross-sectional images generated in step S15, with the size and arrangement indicated by the layout information. No. 25 is displayed (step S35). Then, the display control unit 26c proceeds to step S20.

For example, when it is determined in step S30 that the protocol 64 is the cross-section detection protocol, the display control unit 26c acquires the protocols 62 to 63 in step S31. Then, in step S32, the display control unit 26c images the reference cross-section type “left ventricular short-axis image” acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 62 and the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 63. The type “left ventricle dual chamber long axis image” of the reference cross section is specified. Then, in step S33, the display control unit 26c refers to the correlation diagram 33a, and the type of the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is the “left ventricular short-axis image” is “left ventricular horizontal”. The "long axis image" is specified, and the type "left ventricular short axis image" of the reference cross sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross sectional image whose type is "left ventricle two-chamber long axis image" is specified. Then, in step S34, the display control unit 26c determines a plurality of reference cross-sectional images of types “left ventricular short-axis image”, “left ventricle dual-chamber long-axis image”, and “left ventricle horizontal long-axis image” as predetermined. The layout information indicating the layout arranged from left to right in the size of is generated. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the positioning screen 91 displayed on the display unit 25 according to the second embodiment. Then, in step S35, the display control unit 26c, as shown in the example of FIG. 13, among the above-described seven types of reference sectional images, the reference sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information generated in step S34 (the type is “ A plurality of reference cross-sectional images which are "left ventricular short-axis image", "left ventricle dual-cavity long-axis image", and "left ventricular horizontal long-axis image", are displayed in a predetermined size and arrangement indicated by the layout information. 25 is displayed.

In step S34, the display control unit 26c arranges a reference cross-sectional image and, when manually setting the reference cross-sectional image, the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image, and the It is possible to generate layout information indicating a layout such that the operator can understand that one reference cross-sectional image corresponds. Here, the “certain reference cross-sectional image” can be expressed as a “child”, and the “reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the certain reference cross-sectional image” can be expressed as a “parent”. Further, such a relationship between the “certain reference cross-sectional image” and the “reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the certain reference cross-sectional image” can be expressed as “parent-child relationship”. That is, in step S34, the display control unit 26c can generate layout information in which two reference cross-sectional images having a “parent-child relationship” are arranged side by side.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the positioning screen 92 displayed on the display unit 25 according to the second embodiment. For example, in step S32, the types of the “left ventricular short-axis image” and the “left ventricle dual-chamber long-axis image” are specified, and in step S33, the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is “left ventricular short-axis image” is “child”. Of the reference cross-sectional image that is the “parent” in the case of “”, and the reference cross-sectional image of the type that is the “left ventricle two-chamber long-axis image” is “the child” A case where the type “left ventricular short-axis image” of the reference cross-sectional image that is the “parent” is specified will be described.

In this case, as shown in the example of FIG. 14, the display control unit 26c displays the reference cross-sectional image 92a of the type “left ventricular short-axis image” identified in step S32 and the reference cross-sectional image 92a. The “parent” of the “child” and the reference cross-sectional images 92b of which the type is the “left ventricular horizontal long-axis image” are vertically arranged so as to correspond to each other, and the type specified in step S32 Is a "left ventricle two-chamber long-axis image", and a reference is a "parent" when the reference cross-sectional image 92c is a "child", and the type is "left ventricle two-chamber long-axis image". The reference cross-sectional images 92d and 92c are arranged vertically so as to correspond to the reference cross-sectional image 92d, and are smaller than the sizes of the “parent” reference cross-sectional image 92b and the reference cross-sectional image 92d. Layout information indicating a layout having a large size is generated. Here, the size of the reference cross-sectional image of the "child" is larger than that of the reference cross-sectional image of the "parent". The reference cross-sectional image of the "parent" is just a reference cross-sectional image for reference, and the reference cross-sectional image of the "child" is This is because the cross-sectional image is an important reference cross-sectional image of the observation target. Then, in step S35, the display control unit 26c displays the reference cross-sectional images 92a to 92d on the positioning screen 92 according to the layout information generated in step S34, as shown in the example of FIG. In this way, even if the reference cross-sectional image of the observation target and the manual setting procedure are close to each other, the reference cross-sectional image is displayed on the positioning screen even if it is not the observation target. Is effective in. In the example of FIG. 14, the example in which the reference cross-sectional image of the “child” is larger than the reference cross-sectional image of the “parent” has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this, and, for example, conversely, “ The reference cross-sectional image of the “parent” may be larger than the reference cross-sectional image of the “child”. The reference cross-sectional image of the “parent” is referred to when setting the cross-sectional position of the reference cross-sectional image of the “child”, which is an important reference cross-sectional image as an observation target. Therefore, from the perspective of finely adjusting the positions of the characteristic parts and the intersection lines on the reference cross-sectional image of the "parent", the size of the reference cross-sectional image of the "parent" is smaller than that of the reference cross-sectional image of the "child". Larger is more convenient.

Returning to the description of FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no cross-section detection protocol (step S30; No), the display control unit 26c acquires all the protocols in the order after the protocol extracted in step S12 (step S36).

Then, the display control unit 26c identifies the type of the reference cross-sectional image generated according to the acquired protocol (step S37).

Then, the display control unit 26c refers to the correlation diagram 33a, and in the case of manually setting the reference cross-sectional image, determines the type of the reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image whose type is specified in step S37. It is specified (step S38). The process of step S38 can be omitted.

Then, the display control unit 26c generates layout information indicating a layout in which the reference cross-sectional images indicated by the types identified in step S37 and step S38 are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right (step S39).

Then, the display control unit 26c displays the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information generated in step S39, out of the plurality of types of reference cross-sectional images generated in step S15, with the size and arrangement indicated by the layout information. No. 25 is displayed (step S40). Then, the display control unit 26c proceeds to step S20.

For example, when the inspection protocol 50 is set in step S10, the display control unit 26c determines in step S30 that there is no cross-section detection protocol. Then, in step S36, the display control unit 26c acquires the protocols 52 to 55 in order after the protocol 51. Then, in step S37, the display control unit 26c causes the type “left ventricular short-axis image” of the reference cross section acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 52, and the reference cross section acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 53. “Left ventricular long-axis image”, the type of reference cross section “right ventricular short-axis image” collected by the imaging scan performed according to the protocol 54, and the imaging scan performed according to the protocol 55 The type of the standard cross-section "right ventricular two-chamber long-axis image" is specified.

Then, in step S38, the display control unit 26c refers to the correlation diagram 33a, and the type of the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is the “left ventricular short-axis image” is “left ventricular horizontal”. Long-axis image" is specified. In step S38, the display control unit 26c identifies the type “left ventricular short-axis image” of the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is “left ventricular two-chamber long-axis image”. To do. Further, in step S38, the display control unit 26c identifies the type “right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image” of the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image whose type is “right ventricular short-axis image”. To do. Further, in step S38, the display control unit 26c sets the type “left ventricle four-chamber long-axis image” of the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image whose type is “right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image”. Specify.

Then, in step S39, the display control unit 26c determines that the type is “left ventricular two-chamber long-axis image”, “left ventricular short-axis image”, “right ventricular short-axis image”, “right ventricular two-chamber long-axis image”. , “Left ventricle horizontal long-axis image” and “left ventricle four-cavity long-axis image” generate a layout information indicating a layout in which the reference cross-sectional images are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the positioning screen 93 displayed on the display unit 25 according to the second embodiment. Then, in step S40, the display control unit 26c, as shown in the example of FIG. 14, among the 14 types of reference sectional images generated in step S15, the reference sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information generated in step S39 ( Types are "left ventricular two-chamber long-axis image", "left ventricular short-axis image", "right ventricular short-axis image", "right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image", "left ventricular horizontal long-axis image", and A plurality of reference cross-sectional images which are “left ventricular four-cavity long-axis images” are displayed on the positioning image 93 in a predetermined size and arrangement indicated by the layout information.

Here, the case where the protocol 64 is taken out in step S12 will be described. In this case, the display control unit 26c determines in step S30 that there is no cross-section detection protocol. Then, in step S36, the display control unit 26c acquires the protocols 65 and 66 in order after the protocol 64. Then, in step S37, the display control unit 26c collects the type “right ventricular short-axis image” of the reference cross section acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 65 and the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 66. The type of the standard cross-section "right ventricular dual chamber long-axis image" is specified. Then, in step S38, the display control unit 26c refers to the correlation diagram 33a, and the type of the reference cross-sectional image “right ventricle 2” set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is “right ventricular short-axis image”. "Long-axis view" is specified. Further, in step S38, the display control unit 26c sets the type “left ventricle four-chamber long-axis image” of the reference cross-sectional image that is set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image whose type is “right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image”. Specify. Then, in step S39, the display control unit 26c has a plurality of reference cross sections whose types are “right ventricular short-axis image” and “right ventricle two-chamber long-axis image” (excluding “left ventricle four-chamber long-axis image”). Layout information indicating a layout in which the images are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right is generated. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the positioning screen 94 displayed on the display unit 25 according to the second embodiment. Then, in step S40, the display control unit 26c, as illustrated in the example of FIG. 16, of the five types of reference sectional images, the reference sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information generated in step S39 (the type is “right ventricle”). A plurality of reference cross-sectional images, which are the “short-axis image” and the “right ventricle dual-cavity long-axis image”, are displayed on the positioning screen 94 in a predetermined size and arrangement indicated by the layout information.

Note that the display control unit 26c can also provide a means for allowing the operator to easily confirm the layout of the reference cross-sectional image before displaying the positioning screen in at least one of steps S35 and S40. For example, the display control unit 26c can cause the display unit 25 to display a thumbnail in which the reference cross-sectional images are arranged. In this case, the operator confirms the thumbnail, and if the layout of the reference cross-sectional image is not the desired layout, the operator operates the input unit 24 to display the above-mentioned reception screen for receiving the editing of the layout information. Enter the instruction to be displayed on 25. When such an instruction is input, the reception unit 26a causes the display unit 25 to display a reception screen. Thereby, the operator can edit the layout information on the reception screen.

Further, the display control unit 26c can also receive an instruction to display the reception screen on the display unit 25 after displaying the positioning screen in at least one of steps S35 and S40. With this, when the layout of the reference cross-sectional image on the positioning screen is not the desired layout, the operator can input an instruction to display the reception screen and edit the layout information on the displayed reception screen. it can.

The MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment has been described above. The MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment automatically generates layout information indicating a layout in which reference cross-sectional images of the type acquired by an imaging scan are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right, and the generated layout is generated. The reference cross-sectional image is displayed on the display unit 25 according to the information. Therefore, according to the MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment, since the reference cross-sectional image that is not the observation target is not displayed, it is possible to reduce the burden on the user when positioning the reference cross-sectional image. Therefore, according to the MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment, the user can more easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

(First Modification of Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the MRI apparatus selects the next inspection from all the protocols subsequent to a certain cross section detection protocol or the next protocol of a certain cross section detection protocol in the set inspection protocol. The case of specifying the type of the reference cross-sectional image acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the protocol up to the protocol immediately before the cross-sectional detection protocol has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, with respect to a protocol in which an imaging scan has already been performed, the reference cross-sectional image has already been collected in the imaging scan, so it is necessary to display the reference cross-sectional image acquired in the imaging scan executed according to this protocol for positioning. It may not be. Therefore, the MRI apparatus may not display the reference cross-sectional images of the type acquired in the protocol in which the imaging scan was performed.

That is, in the set inspection protocol, the MRI apparatus selects one of the next cross-section detection protocols from all the protocols subsequent to a certain cross-section detection protocol or from the next protocol of the certain cross-section detection protocol. It is also possible to specify the type of the reference cross-sectional image acquired in the imaging scan executed according to the protocols up to the previous protocol excluding the protocols in which the imaging scan has already been performed. Therefore, such an embodiment will be described as a first modification of the second embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example before and after a change of the inspection protocol 70 according to the first modification of the second embodiment. For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 17, the inspection protocol 70 before the change includes a first protocol (cross-section detection protocol) 71, a second protocol (“LSA-cine”) 72, and a third protocol. (“L2ch-cine”) 73 is included.

Here, after the MRI apparatus according to the first modification executes various processes according to all the protocols 71 to 73 included in the examination protocol 70 before the change, the user newly adds the examination protocol 70 to the fourth protocol. A description will be given of a case where the protocol (“RSA-cine”) 74 and the fifth protocol (“R2ch-cine”) 75 are added, and then the inspection protocol 70 is executed again.

In this case, the MRI apparatus performs various processes according to the protocols 71 to 75 included in the changed examination protocol 70. For example, when performing the processing according to the protocol 71, the display control unit 26c of the MRI apparatus according to the first modification follows the protocols 74 and 75 of the protocols 72 to 75 excluding the protocols 71 and 72 that have undergone the imaging scan. Identify the type of reference cross-sectional image acquired in the imaging scan performed. Then, the display control unit 26c identifies the type of the reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is identified with reference to the correlation diagram 33a. Then, the display control unit 26c generates layout information indicating a layout in which the reference cross-sectional images indicated by the specified type are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right. Then, the display control unit 26c causes the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information to be displayed in the size and the arrangement indicated by the layout information among the plurality of reference cross-sectional images generated in step S15.

In this way, the display control unit 26c causes the display unit 25 to display the reference cross-sectional image of the type acquired by the unexecuted imaging scan. Therefore, according to the MRI apparatus according to the first modified example of the second embodiment, there is a case where it is not necessary to position a reference cross-sectional image, such as reference cross-sectional images collected according to the protocols 71 and 72 that have undergone imaging scanning. A certain reference sectional image is no longer displayed on the display unit 25. Therefore, with the MRI apparatus according to the first modification of the second embodiment, it is possible for the user to more easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

(Second Modification of Second Embodiment)
Here, the MRI apparatus executes the imaging scan according to a certain protocol, and from the completion of the execution of the imaging scan to the execution of the imaging scan according to the next protocol, the user inputs the image through the input unit 24. A case where an instruction to perform processing according to the cross-section detection protocol is received will be described. That is, a case will be described in which the cross-section detection protocol is set between any two of the plurality of protocols included in the inspection protocol. In this case, the MRI apparatus performs processing according to the set cross-section detection protocol based on the received instruction. Therefore, such an embodiment will be described as a second modification of the second embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the inspection protocol 80 according to the second modification of the second embodiment. As shown in the example of FIG. 18, the inspection protocol 80 includes a first protocol (cross-section detection protocol) 81, a second protocol (“LSA-cine”) 82, and a third protocol (“L2ch-cine”). 83, a fourth protocol (“RSA-cine”) 84, and a fifth protocol (“R2ch-cine”) 85.

When performing an inspection, the MRI apparatus according to the second modification performs various processes according to the protocols 81 to 84 included in the inspection protocol 80. Here, the user gives an instruction via the input unit 24 to execute the process according to the cross-section detection protocol 86 after the execution of the process according to the protocol 84 is completed and before the execution of the process according to the protocol 85 is started. The case of input will be described. By such an instruction, the cross-section detection protocol 86 is set between the protocol 84 and the protocol 85.

In this case, the display control unit 26c performs the process according to the cross-section detection protocol 86 after the execution of the process according to the protocol 84 is completed and before the process according to the protocol 85 is executed. Here, since the display control unit 26c has already detected 14 types of cross-sectional positions, it does not newly detect 14 types of cross-sectional positions. Then, the display control unit 26c performs the same process as that of the second embodiment or the first modification, using the already detected cross-sectional position. For example, the display control unit 26c identifies the type of reference cross-sectional image acquired in the imaging scan executed according to the protocol 85. Then, the display control unit 26c identifies the type of the reference cross-sectional image set immediately before the reference cross-sectional image of which the type is identified with reference to the correlation diagram 33a. Then, the display control unit 26c generates layout information indicating a layout in which the reference cross-sectional images indicated by the specified type are arranged in a predetermined size from left to right. Then, the display control unit 26c displays the reference cross-sectional image of the type indicated by the layout information, of the plurality of generated reference cross-sectional images, in the size and arrangement indicated by the layout information. That is, the display control unit 26c causes the reference cross section of the type acquired by the imaging scan executed in accordance with the protocol 85 and subsequent protocols set next to the cross section detection protocol 86 set between the protocol 84 and the protocol 85. Display the image on the positioning screen.

Therefore, according to the MRI apparatus according to the second modified example of the second embodiment, only the reference cross-sectional image acquired by the imaging scan executed according to the protocol to be processed is displayed on the positioning screen. Therefore, with the MRI apparatus according to the second modification of the second embodiment, it is possible for the user to more easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

According to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus of at least one embodiment described above, the user can easily position the reference cross-sectional image.

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples 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 modifications thereof are included in the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof as well as included in the scope and the gist of the invention.

23 storage unit 23b layout table 26b detection unit 26c display control unit 100 magnetic resonance imaging apparatus

Claims (4)

A detector that detects the cross-sectional positions of multiple cross-sectional images from the collected data,
According to the inspection protocol, layout information in which the layout displayed on the positioning screen is defined is automatically generated, and all or a part of the plurality of sectional images generated based on the sectional position of the plurality of sectional images are A display control unit for displaying on the positioning screen according to the layout information;
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus comprising: The display control unit generates layout information in which the layout including a type of a sectional image acquired by imaging according to a protocol included in the inspection protocol is defined, and all or a part of the plurality of sectional images is generated. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus displays on the positioning screen according to the layout information. The display control unit generates layout information in which the layout is defined including the types of cross-sectional images collected by unexecuted imaging when a plurality of imaging is performed according to a plurality of protocols included in the inspection protocol. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein all or some of the plurality of cross-sectional images are displayed on the positioning screen according to the layout information. When a plurality of imaging is performed according to a plurality of protocols included in the inspection protocol, the display control unit has an imaging condition for performing a predetermined process between any two of the plurality of protocols. When a predetermined protocol is set, the layout information that defines the layout including the type of cross-sectional image acquired by imaging performed according to the protocol set after the set protocol is generated. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein all or part of the plurality of cross-sectional images is displayed on the positioning screen according to the layout information.