JP6815074B2 - X-ray CT equipment and image processing equipment - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to an X-ray CT apparatus and an image processing apparatus.

Usually, the type and number of CT images generated by the X-ray CT apparatus are determined by the reconstruction conditions input by the user or preset reconstruction conditions. If the CT image to be read has not been generated, the user needs to re-enter the reconstruction conditions. Further, a recent X-ray CT apparatus has a multi-row detector and can generate a CT image having a high resolution. For this reason, recent X-ray CT apparatus can generate a large number of various types of CT images based on the projection data collected in one imaging. When interpreting a CT image, the user needs to select a necessary CT image from these CT images. However, the number of examinations using the X-ray CT apparatus, the number of CT images, and the types of CT images are increasing. Therefore, the burden on the user is increasing. In addition, in order to reduce the burden on the user, the conventional X-ray CT apparatus has a function of generating a CT image for a subject that has been examined in the past based on the same conditions as the reconstruction conditions in the past examination. May have.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-271541 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-61278 JP-A-2010-264230

An object to be solved by the present invention is to provide an X-ray CT apparatus and an image processing apparatus capable of reducing the burden of image interpretation.

The X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment includes a construction unit, an image generation unit, and a display control unit. The construction unit constructs different reconstruction conditions inside and outside the region of interest based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image. The image generation unit generates a smaller number of CT images based on the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit than when the reconstruction conditions are not different inside and outside the region of interest . The display control unit controls to display the CT image generated by the image generation unit.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment in step S3 of FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the collection of image interpretation information performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of preset reconstruction conditions. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the reconstruction conditions shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment in step S3 of FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the reconstruction conditions used by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment in step S3 of FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed in step S3 of FIG. 2 by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a method for displaying a CT image by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

Hereinafter, the X-ray CT apparatus and the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, duplicate description will be omitted as appropriate.

(First Embodiment)
The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a includes a gantry 10, a bed 20, and a console 30a. The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a is not limited to the following configuration.

The gantry 10 includes a high voltage generation circuit 11, a collimator adjustment circuit 12, a gantry drive circuit 13, an X-ray irradiation device 14, a detector 15, a data acquisition circuit 16, and a rotating frame 17.

The high voltage generation circuit 11 supplies a tube voltage to the X-ray tube 141, which will be described later. The high voltage generation circuit 11 realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 35 described later.

The collimator adjusting circuit 12 adjusts the opening degree and the position of the collimator 143, which will be described later. As a result, the collimator adjusting circuit 12 adjusts the irradiation range of the X-rays that the X-ray tube 141 irradiates the subject P. The collimator adjustment circuit 12 realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 35 described later.

The gantry drive circuit 13 rotationally drives the rotary frame 17. As a result, the gantry drive circuit 13 swivels the X-ray irradiation device 14 and the detector 15 in a circular orbit centered on the subject P. The gantry drive circuit 13 realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 35 described later.

The X-ray irradiation device 14 irradiates the subject P with X-rays. The X-ray irradiation device 14 includes an X-ray tube 141, a wedge 142, and a collimator 143. The X-ray tube 141 generates beam-shaped X-rays to irradiate the subject P by the tube voltage supplied by the high voltage generation circuit 11. The X-ray tube 141 is a vacuum tube that generates beam-shaped X-rays having a spread along the body axis direction of the subject P. This beam-shaped X-ray is also called a cone beam. The wedge 142 is an X-ray filter for adjusting the dose of X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 141. The collimator 143 is a slit for adjusting the irradiation range of X-rays. The opening degree and position of the collimator 143 are adjusted by the collimator adjusting circuit 12. By adjusting the opening degree of the collimator 143, for example, the fan angle and the cone angle of the cone beam are adjusted.

The detector 15 is, for example, a multi-row detector including a plurality of detection elements arranged in the channel direction and the slice direction. The detection element detects the intensity of X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 141 and irradiated to the subject P. The channel direction is the circumferential direction of the rotating frame 17, and the slice direction is the body axis direction of the subject P.

The detector 15 has, for example, detection elements arranged on a matrix in the channel direction and the slice direction. The number of detection elements included in the detector 15 is not particularly limited. For example, when the X-ray CT apparatus 1a generates a three-dimensional CT image of the entire heart, the detector 15 collects projection data from the upper end to the lower end of the heart in the body axis direction of the subject P in one conventional scan. It suffices to have as many detection elements as there are possible scan ranges. Further, when the length of the detection element in the channel direction and the length in the slice direction are long, the detector 15 can realize the above-mentioned scan range with a smaller number of detection elements.

The detection element included in the detector 15 includes a scintillator, a photodiode, and a detection circuit. The detection element detects the intensity of X-rays by, for example, the following method. First, the detection element converts the incident X-rays into light by a scintillator. The detection element then converts the light into an electric charge with a photodiode. Then, the detection element converts this charge into an electric signal by the detection circuit and outputs it to the data acquisition circuit 16 described later. A detector in which the detection element has a scintillator and a photodiode is called a solid-state detector.

The detector 15 may be a direct conversion type detector. The direct conversion type detector is a detector that directly converts X-rays incident on a detection element into electric charges. The electric charge output from the detection element is such that the electrons generated by the incident of X-rays move toward the positive potential current collecting electrode and the holes generated by the incident of X-rays move toward the negative potential current collecting electrode. Output by at least one of the moves.

The data collection circuit 16 generates projection data based on the electric signal output by the detection element. The projected data is, for example, a synogram. The synogram is data in which signals detected by the detector 15 are arranged at each position of the X-ray tube 141. Here, the position of the X-ray tube 141 is called a view. The synogram is data in which the intensity of X-rays detected by the detector 15 is assigned to a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system in which the first direction is the view direction and the second direction orthogonal to the first direction is the channel direction of the detector 15. Is. The data acquisition circuit 16 generates a synogram in units of columns in the slice direction. The data acquisition circuit 16 is also called a DAS (Data Acquisition System). The data collection circuit 16 realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 35 described later.

The rotating frame 17 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray irradiation device 14 and the detector 15 so as to face each other with the subject P in between. The rotating frame 17 is driven by the gantry drive circuit 13 and rotates at high speed on a circular orbit centered on the subject P.

The bed 20 includes a top plate 21 and a bed drive circuit 22. The top plate 21 is a plate-shaped member on which the subject P is placed. The sleeper drive circuit 22 moves the subject P in the photographing port of the gantry 10 by moving the top plate 21 on which the subject P is placed in the body axis direction. The bed drive circuit 22 realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 35 described later.

The console 30a includes an input circuit 31, a display 32, a projection data storage circuit 33, an image storage circuit 34, a storage circuit 35, and a processing circuit 36a.

The input circuit 31 is used by a user who inputs instructions and settings. The input circuit 31 is included in, for example, a mouse and a keyboard. The input circuit 31 transfers the instructions and settings input by the user to the processing circuit 36a. The input circuit 31 is realized by, for example, a processor.

The display 32 is a monitor that the user refers to. The display 32 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display. The display 32 receives, for example, an instruction from the processing circuit 36a to display a CT image and a GUI (Graphical User Interface) used when the user inputs instructions and settings. The display 32 displays a CT image or GUI based on this instruction.

The projection data storage circuit 33 stores raw data (Raw Data) generated by the preprocessing function 362 described later. The image storage circuit 34 stores the CT image generated by the image generation function 363 described later.

The storage circuit 35 stores a program for the high voltage generation circuit 11, the collimator adjustment circuit 12, the gantry drive circuit 13, and the data acquisition circuit 16 to realize the above-mentioned functions. The storage circuit 35 stores a program for the bed drive circuit 22 to realize the above-mentioned functions. The storage circuit 35 includes a scan control function 361, a preprocessing function 362, an image generation function 363, a display control function 364, an image interpretation information collection function 365, an image interpretation tendency extraction function 366, a construction function 367, and a control function 368, which are described later in the processing circuit 36a. Memorize the program to realize each. Further, the storage circuit 35 stores the image interpretation information collected by the processing circuit 36a by the image interpretation information collection function 365 described later.

The projection data storage circuit 33, the image storage circuit 34, and the storage circuit 35 have a storage medium in which the stored information can be read out by a computer. The storage medium is, for example, a hard disk.

The processing circuit 36a has a scan control function 361, a preprocessing function 362, an image generation function 363, a display control function 364, an image interpretation information collection function 365, an image interpretation tendency extraction function 366, a construction function 367, and a control function 368. Details of these functions will be described later. The processing circuit 36a is realized by, for example, a processor.

An example of processing of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2, the processing circuit 36a executes a scan and collects projection data (step S1). The process of step S1 is, for example, as follows.

The processing circuit 36a reads a program corresponding to the scan control function 361 from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The scan control function 361 is a function of controlling the X-ray CT apparatus 1a to execute a scan. For example, the processing circuit 36a controls the X-ray CT apparatus 1a as follows by executing the scan control function 361.

The processing circuit 36a moves the subject P into the imaging port of the gantry 10 by controlling the bed drive circuit 22. The processing circuit 36a controls the gantry drive circuit 13 to execute a scan of the subject P. Specifically, the processing circuit 36a controls the high voltage generation circuit 11 to supply the tube voltage to the X-ray tube 141. The processing circuit 36a adjusts the opening degree and the position of the collimator 143 by controlling the collimator adjusting circuit 12. Further, the processing circuit 36a rotates the rotating frame 17 by controlling the gantry drive circuit 13. Then, the processing circuit 36a controls the data collecting circuit 16 to cause the data collecting circuit 16 to collect the projection data.

The scans performed by the X-ray CT apparatus 1a are, for example, a conventional scan, a helical scan, and a step-and-shoot. The conventional scan is a method of scanning the subject P with the position of the subject P placed on the top plate 21 fixed. The helical scan is a method of scanning the subject P while moving the subject P placed on the top plate 21 in the body axis direction. The step-and-shoot is a method in which the position of the subject P placed on the top plate 21 is moved at regular intervals to perform a conventional scan in a plurality of scan areas.

As shown in FIG. 2, the processing circuit 36a preprocesses the projection data (step S2). The process of step S2 is, for example, as follows.

The processing circuit 36a reads a program corresponding to the preprocessing function 362 from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The preprocessing function 362 is a function for correcting the projection data generated by the data acquisition circuit 16. This correction is, for example, logarithmic transformation, offset correction, sensitivity correction, beam hardening correction, and scattered ray correction. The projection data corrected by the preprocessing function 362 is stored in the projection data storage circuit 33. The projection data corrected by the preprocessing function 362 is also called raw data.

As shown in FIG. 2, the processing circuit 36a generates and displays a CT image (step S3). The process of step S3 is, for example, as follows.

The processing circuit 36a reads a program corresponding to the image generation function 363 from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The image generation function 363 is a function of reconstructing the raw data stored in the projection data storage circuit 33 and generating a CT image. The image generation function 363 is an example of the image generation unit described in the claims. The reconstruction method is, for example, a back projection process or a successive approximation method. Further, as a specific example of the back projection processing, an FBP (Filtered Back Projection) method can be mentioned.

The processing circuit 36a reads a program corresponding to the display control function 364 from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The display control function 364 is a function of displaying the generated CT image on the display 32 in an arbitrary manner. The display control function 364 is an example of the display control unit described in the claims.

Further, in step S3 of FIG. 2, the processing circuit 36a constructs a reconstruction condition based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image, and generates and displays a CT image based on the constructed reconstruction condition. Next, these processes will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 7.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment in step S3 of FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the collection of image interpretation information performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of preset reconstruction conditions. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the reconstruction conditions shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted (step S10). The process of step S10 is, for example, as follows.

The process of step S10 is based on the premise that the interpretation information has been collected before the scan is executed. The interpretation information is collected by the processing circuit 36a. The processing circuit 36a reads a program corresponding to the interpretation information collecting function 365 from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The image interpretation information collection function 365 is a function for collecting image interpretation information which is information related to image interpretation of CT images. The interpretation information collection function 365 is an example of the interpretation information collection unit described in the claims. The interpretation information includes, for example, information on the operation performed on the CT image, the time or number of times the CT image or a part thereof is interpreted, and information on the change of the reconstruction condition.

The information regarding the operation performed on the CT image is, for example, enlargement or reduction of the CT image, movement of the image center of the CT image, and change of display conditions, as shown in FIG. Also, the information about the operation performed on the CT image includes moving to another CT image. The movement to another CT image is, for example, when a plurality of CT images having different positions in the body axis direction of the subject P are generated and a CT image at a certain position in the body axis direction is displayed, the body axis direction. It is to display the CT image of another position. Further, the information regarding the operation performed on the CT image includes the information regarding the mouse operation and the keyboard operation performed by the user.

The information regarding the operation performed on the CT image includes the information regarding the operation for measuring the length and shape of the object to be read on the CT image. When measuring the length of an object to be read on a CT image, the user measures, for example, the distance between two points displayed on the display 32. When measuring the shape of the object to be imaged on the CT image, the user adjusts the lengths of the major axis and the minor axis of the ellipse displayed on the display 32, and the object to interpret the shape of the ellipse on the CT image, for example. Match the shape of. As a result, the user can estimate the rough shape of the object to be read on the CT image.

The time or number of times the CT image or a part thereof is interpreted is, for example, the display time or the number of times the CT image or a part thereof is displayed, as shown in FIG. Further, the time or number of times that the CT image or a part thereof is read may be the time or number of times displayed on the page for displaying the CT image to be read. The page for displaying the CT image to be interpreted is also called a viewer page or an interpretation page. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the time or the number of times that the CT image or a part thereof is read may be collected for each display condition of the CT image. Further, the time or number of times the CT image or a part thereof is read includes at least one of the image-reading area, time and number of times obtained from the information regarding the mouse operation and the keyboard operation performed by the user.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the information regarding the change of the reconstruction condition includes the image thickness, the reconstruction interval, the reconstruction matrix, the reconstruction function, the reconstruction process, the reconstruction range, the reconstruction process type, the enlargement ratio, and the image. Contains information about changes in the center. The reconstruction conditions are changed by, for example, mouse operation or keyboard operation. The reconstruction condition referred to here is also called a reconstruction retry condition.

The image thickness is the length in the body axis direction of the projection data used when generating the CT image. The reconstruction interval is an interval for generating a CT image in the body axis direction. A CT image with a large image thickness is suitable for roughly interpreting the entire image. A CT image with a small image thickness is suitable for interpreting the structure in detail. The reconstruction matrix is a matrix in which each component represents the CT value of each pixel of the CT image. The reconstruction function is a filter used when applying the FBP method. The reconstruction process also includes a reconstruction method such as the FBP method and the successive approximation reconstruction method described above. The reconstruction process is, for example, a process for removing noise and artifacts. The reconstruction range is a range for generating a CT image. The reconstruction range is not limited to the range in the body axis direction of the subject P. The enlargement ratio is a magnification required for enlarging a part of the displayed CT image to a predetermined size. The image center is a point displayed at the center of the display 32 in the CT image.

The reconstruction processing species includes, for example, an imaging protocol according to the imaging site of the subject P. The imaging protocol according to the imaging site of the subject P is, for example, a head plan, a chest plan, an abdominal plan, a lower limb plan, and a whole body plan, as shown in FIG. The head plan, chest plan, abdominal plan, and lower limb plan are specialized for imaging each imaging site of subject P. In these imaging protocols, for example, the image thickness, the reconstruction interval, the reconstruction matrix, the reconstruction function, the reconstruction process, and the reconstruction range are set to conditions suitable for photographing each imaging portion.

The reconstitution processing species includes a imaging protocol depending on the subject P. The imaging protocol according to the subject P has, for example, an image thickness, a reconstruction interval, a reconstruction matrix, a reconstruction function, a reconstruction process, and a reconstruction range set according to the age and gender of the subject P. The imaging protocol according to the subject P is, for example, the pediatric plan shown in FIG. The pediatric plan specializes in taking CT images of children.

The reconstruction processing type includes a shooting protocol according to the shooting scene. The imaging protocol according to the shooting scene is set, for example, the image thickness, the reconstruction interval, the reconstruction matrix, the reconstruction function, the reconstruction process, and the reconstruction range suitable for photographing a wide range of the subject P in an emergency. Has been done. This imaging protocol is an emergency plan shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the processing circuit 36a stores the collected interpretation information in the storage circuit 35. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the processing circuit 36a may collect image interpretation information for each user or team using the X-ray CT apparatus 1a, for example. For example, when the interpretation information is collected for each of the four users, the four interpretation information is stored in each of the storage area 351 and the storage area 352, the storage area 353, and the storage area 354 of the storage circuit 35. Alternatively, the processing circuit 36a may store the interpretation information collected from the entire hospital in a storage medium installed outside the X-ray CT apparatus 1a. Further, the processing circuit 36a may collect the interpretation information of each team or the entire hospital by combining the interpretation information collected for each user who uses the X-ray CT apparatus. Alternatively, the interpretation information may be collected from each team or the entire hospital.

The processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted by executing the image interpretation tendency extraction function 366. The image interpretation tendency extraction function 366 is a function of extracting the image interpretation tendency from the image interpretation information when the image interpretation information collected by the image interpretation information collection function 365 satisfies a predetermined condition. The image interpretation tendency extraction function 366 is an example of the image interpretation tendency extraction unit described in the claims. The processing circuit 36a can extract the image interpretation tendency from the user, the team, or the entire hospital.

The processing circuit 36a determines, for example, whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted from the information regarding the operation performed on the CT image. In this case, the predetermined condition is a threshold value set for the number of specific operations performed on the CT image. The processing circuit 36a determines that, for example, when the number of specific operations performed on the CT image exceeds this threshold value, the interpretation tendency can be extracted. For example, when the user performs an operation of enlarging the heart in the interpretation of a CT image including the heart at a predetermined threshold value or more, the processing circuit 36a determines that there is a tendency to gaze at the heart and extracts the interpretation tendency.

The specific operation performed on the CT image may include a plurality of similar operations. For example, when enlarging the heart portion of a CT image including the heart, the specific operation performed on the CT image may include an operation of enlarging the heart portion at a magnification of a predetermined range. Alternatively, the specific operation performed on the CT image may include an operation of enlarging the heart portion by a mouse operation or an operation of enlarging the heart portion by a keyboard operation.

The processing circuit 36a determines, for example, whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted from the time or number of times that the CT image or a part thereof is interpreted. In this case, the predetermined condition is a threshold value set for the time or the number of times that the CT image or a part thereof is read. The processing circuit 36a determines that, for example, when the time or number of times that the CT image or a part thereof is read exceeds this threshold value, the reading tendency can be extracted. For example, when the time or the number of times the user interprets the lung field in the interpretation of the CT image including the lung field exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the processing circuit 36a determines that the lung field tends to be gazed at, and the interpretation tendency. Is extracted. The time or number of times the CT image or a part thereof is read may be the time or number of times with respect to the unit time.

The processing circuit 36a determines, for example, whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted from the information regarding the change of the reconstruction condition. In this case, the predetermined condition is, for example, a threshold value set for the number of times the reconstruction condition shown in FIG. 4 is within a specific range. The processing circuit 36a determines that, for example, when the number of times the reconstruction conditions for which the image thickness and the reconstruction interval are set are within the predetermined ranges is equal to or greater than this threshold value, the image interpretation tendency can be extracted.

In addition, the information regarding the change of the reconstruction condition may include the information regarding the change to the similar reconstruction condition. For example, the information regarding the change of the reconstruction condition may include the information regarding the change to the reconstruction condition in which the image thickness, the reconstruction interval, and the enlargement ratio are each within a predetermined range.

Returning to FIG. 3, when it is determined that the interpretation tendency could not be extracted (denial in step S10), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S11. The processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on preset reconstruction conditions by executing the image generation function 363 (step S11). When the processing in step S11 is completed, the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S20. When it is determined that the interpretation tendency can be extracted (affirmation in step S10), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S12. The processing circuit 36a extracts, for example, the image interpretation tendency for each photographing protocol, each user, and each team.

The preset reconstruction conditions are stored in, for example, the storage circuit 35 of the X-ray CT device 1a and the storage medium of the workstation that manages the X-ray CT device 1a. Further, when the workstation manages a plurality of X-ray CT devices, the preset reconstruction conditions are often unified in the hospital.

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a constructs the reconstruction condition (step S12). The process of step S12 is, for example, as follows.

The processing circuit 36a reads a program corresponding to the construction function 367 from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The construction function 367 is a function for constructing a reconstruction condition based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image. The construction function 367 is an example of the construction unit described in the claims. By executing the construction function 367, the processing circuit 36a constructs the reconstruction condition based on the image interpretation tendency after the extraction of the image interpretation tendency by the image interpretation tendency extraction function 366 is completed.

The reconstruction condition shown in FIG. 5 is a reconstruction condition input by the user before the reconstruction condition is constructed based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image, or a reconstruction condition set from the beginning. The reconstruction condition shown in FIG. 5 includes a reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “1” and a reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “2”. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "1" is to generate 1000 CT images having an image thickness of 0.5 mm and an enlargement ratio of 1.0 in the reconstruction range of 0.0 mm to 500.0 mm. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "2" is to generate 320 CT images having an image thickness of 0.5 mm and an enlargement ratio of 2.5 in the reconstruction range of 160.0 mm to 320.0 mm.

The reconstruction condition shown in FIG. 6 is a reconstruction condition constructed based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image by the processing circuit 36a executing the construction function 367. The reconstruction conditions shown in FIG. 6 include the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "1", the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "2", and the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "3". Including conditions. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "1" is a CT image having an image thickness of 5.0 mm and an enlargement ratio of 1.0 in the reconstruction range of 0.0 mm to 150.0 mm and 350.0 mm to 500.0 mm. It produces 60 sheets. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "2" is to generate 200 CT images having an image thickness of 1.0 mm and an enlargement ratio of 1.0 in the reconstruction range of 150.0 mm to 350.0 mm. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number "3" is to generate 320 CT images having an image thickness of 0.5 mm and an enlargement ratio of 2.5 in the reconstruction range of 160.0 mm to 320.0 mm. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “3” shown in FIG. 6 is the same as the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “2” shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 summarizes the reconstruction conditions shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. A region of interest R1 and a region of interest R2 are set in the CT image Im in the center of FIG. 7. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “1” shown in FIG. 5 corresponds to all the regions of the CT image Im, as shown by the graphic RB1 on the left side of FIG. Here, the region other than the region of interest R2 in the CT image Im is not read in as much detail as the region of interest R2. Therefore, in the region other than the region of interest R2, the image thickness of the CT image may be increased. Therefore, the processing circuit 36a has an image thickness of 5.0 mm under the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “1” shown in FIG. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “1” shown in FIG. 6 is shown by the figure RA1 on the right side of FIG. 7.

The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “2” shown in FIG. 5 corresponds to the region of interest R2 as shown by the graphic RB2 on the left side of FIG. 7. Here, since the periphery of the region of interest R2 is close to the region of interest R2, it is necessary to interpret the image in more detail than the regions other than the region of interest R1 and the region of interest R2. Therefore, in the region of interest R1, it is necessary to reduce the image thickness of the CT image to some extent. Therefore, the processing circuit 36a has an image thickness of 1.0 mm under the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “2” shown in FIG. The reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “2” shown in FIG. 6 is shown by the figure RA2 on the right side of FIG. 7. Further, the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “3” shown in FIG. 6 is shown by the figure RA3 on the right side of FIG. 7.

When a CT image is generated based on the reconstruction conditions shown in FIG. 5, the user has to bear the burden of selecting a necessary CT image from a total of 1320 CT images. However, when a CT image is generated based on the reconstruction conditions shown in FIG. 6, the user may select a necessary CT image from a total of 580 CT images. Further, when a CT image is generated based on the reconstruction conditions shown in FIG. 6, CT images suitable for each of the regions other than the region of interest R1 and the region of interest R2, the region of interest R1 and the region of interest R2 are generated.

The image thickness of the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “2” shown in FIG. 5 and the reconstruction condition represented by the reconstruction number “3” shown in FIG. 6 is as shown in FIG. Instead of setting the value to 0.5 mm, an enlarged reconstruction may be performed. The enlarged reconstruction is a process of reconstructing only the raw data corresponding to the region to be read in detail in the CT image and generating a CT image of only the region to be read. The CT image generated by the enlarged reconstruction captures the structure of the region to be read in more detail than the CT image enlarged by bilinear interpolation or the like.

Returning to FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the preset reconstruction condition should be replaced with the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 by executing the control function 368 (step S13). ..

When it is determined that the preset reconstruction condition should be replaced with the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 (affirmation in step S13), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S15. In the processing circuit 36a, for example, when the number of CT images generated based on the reconstruction condition reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 is smaller than the number of CT images generated based on the preset reconstruction condition. , The process proceeds to step S15.

When it is determined that the preset reconstruction condition should not be replaced with the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 (denial in step S13), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S14. In the processing circuit 36a, for example, when the number of CT images generated based on the reconstruction condition reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 is larger than the number of CT images generated based on the preset reconstruction condition. , The process proceeds to step S14. The processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on preset reconstruction conditions by executing the image generation function 363 (step S14). When the processing in step S14 is completed, the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S20.

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a replaces the preset reconstruction condition with the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 by executing the control function 368 (step S15).

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the instruction to approve the replacement in step S15 has been received by executing the control function 368 (step S16). When the instruction to approve the replacement in step S15 is received (affirmation in step S16), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S18. When the instruction to approve the replacement in step S15 is not accepted (denial in step S16), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S17. The processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on preset reconstruction conditions by executing the image generation function 363 (step S17). When the processing in step S17 is completed, the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S20.

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a applies the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 by executing the control function 368 (step S18). The process of step S18 overwrites the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 on the preset reconstruction condition.

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on the reconstruction conditions constructed in step S12 (step S19). The processing circuit 36a reconstructs the raw data based on the reconstruction conditions constructed in step S12 and generates a CT image.

The processing circuit 36a registers the CT image (step S20). Specifically, the processing circuit 36a registers the CT images generated in step S11, step S14, step S17 and step S19. The processing circuit 36a appropriately displays the CT image registered in step S20 on the display 32 by executing the display control function 364.

When the processing circuit 36a executes the above-described processing, the processing circuit 36a appropriately reads a program corresponding to the control function 368 from the storage circuit 35 and executes the processing. The control function 368 includes a function of operating each component of the gantry 10, the bed 20, and the console 30a at an appropriate timing according to a purpose, and other functions.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment has been described above. As described above, the processing circuit 36a according to the first embodiment constructs a reconstruction condition based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image, and generates a CT image based on the reconstruction condition constructed by the construction function. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment can match the number of CT images and the type of CT images with the interpretation tendency of the user. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment applies the reconstruction condition constructed in step S12 after receiving the approval of the replacement in step S15 in step S16. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment can more reliably generate a CT image that matches the image interpretation tendency of the user. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment can reduce the burden of image interpretation. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment can save the storage area of the storage medium for storing the CT image and the communication path capacity of the network for transferring the CT image.

(Second Embodiment)
The X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. In the description of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment are used. The details of the contents overlapping with the first embodiment will be omitted.

An example of the process performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment in step S3 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment in step S3 of FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the reconstruction conditions used by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment. The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment is the same as the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted by executing the image interpretation tendency extraction function 366 (step S21). The process of step S21 is based on the premise that the interpretation information is collected before the scan is executed, as in the process of step S10. The method in which the processing circuit 36a collects the interpretation information is the same as that in the first embodiment.

When it is determined that the interpretation tendency can be extracted (affirmation in step S21), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S23. When it is determined that the interpretation tendency could not be extracted (denial in step S21), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S22. The processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on preset reconstruction conditions by executing the image generation function 363 (step S22). When the processing in step S22 is completed, the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S25. The method for determining whether or not the processing circuit 36a according to the second embodiment was able to extract the image interpretation tendency is to determine whether or not the processing circuit 36a according to the first embodiment was able to extract the image interpretation tendency. It is the same as the method of doing.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processing circuit 36a constructs the reconstruction condition based on the image interpretation tendency by executing the construction function 367 (step S23). By executing the construction function 367, the processing circuit 36a constructs the reconstruction condition based on the image interpretation tendency after the extraction of the image interpretation tendency by the image interpretation tendency extraction function 366 is completed. The process of step S23 is, for example, as follows.

A region of interest R10 and a region of interest R20 are set in the CT image Im0 on the right side of FIG. The reconstruction conditions used to generate the CT image in step S3 of FIG. 2 are the regions other than the region of interest R10 and the region of interest R20, the region of interest R10 and the region of interest R20, as shown by the figure RB10 shown in FIG. The image thickness of each CT image is 5.0 mm.

However, from the image interpretation tendency extracted in step S21, it is known that the area of interest R10 and the area of interest R20 are interpreted in detail. Therefore, as shown by the graphic RA20 in FIG. 9, the processing circuit 36a constructs a reconstruction condition for generating a CT image having an image thickness of 1.0 mm for the region of interest R10. Further, as shown in the graphic RA30 of FIG. 9, the processing circuit 36a has a CT image having an image thickness of 0.5 mm, a CT image having an image thickness of 0.25 mm, or a CT image obtained by the above-mentioned enlarged reconstruction for the region R10 of interest. Build a reconstruction condition that produces.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on the reconstruction conditions constructed in step S23 by executing the image generation function 363 (step S24).

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment is different from the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment, and the preset reconstruction conditions are changed to the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction function 367. Do not replace. Further, unlike the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment is constructed by the construction function 367 under preset reconstruction conditions. Do not overwrite the reconfiguration conditions.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processing circuit 36a registers the CT image by executing the control function 368 (step S25). Specifically, the processing circuit 36a registers the CT images generated in steps S22 and S24. The processing circuit 36a appropriately displays the registered CT image on the display 32 by executing the display control function 364.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment has been described above. Similar to the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment, the processing circuit 36a according to the second embodiment can match the number of CT images and the type of CT images with the interpretation tendency of the user. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment, like the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment, communicates with a storage area of a storage medium for storing CT images and a network for transferring CT images. Road capacity can be saved.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment does not replace the preset reconstruction conditions with the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction function 367. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment does not overwrite the reconstruction condition constructed by the construction function 367 on the preset reconstruction condition. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment can also provide a CT image generated based on the reconstruction conditions preset for the user.

(Third Embodiment)
The X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described. In the description of the third embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the above-described embodiment are used. Detailed description of the contents overlapping with the above-described embodiment will be omitted.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment extracts the interpretation tendency, constructs the reconstruction condition, and generates the CT image in parallel with the collection of the interpretation information. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment extracts the image interpretation tendency again, constructs the reconstruction condition, and obtains the CT image when the CT image generated in this manner is not referred to. Generate.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment always collects image interpretation information by the same method as that of the above-described embodiment, regardless of the processing shown in FIG. Then, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment executes the process shown in FIG. 10 in parallel with the collection of the interpretation information.

An example of the process performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment in step S3 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment in step S3 of FIG. The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment is the same as the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, the processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the interpretation tendency can be extracted by executing the image interpretation tendency extraction function 366 (step S31). When it is determined that the interpretation tendency can be extracted (affirmation in step S31), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S33. When it is determined that the interpretation tendency could not be extracted (denial in step S31), the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S32. The processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on preset reconstruction conditions by executing the image generation function 363 (step S32). When the processing in step S32 is completed, the processing circuit 36a advances the processing to step S35. The method for determining whether or not the processing circuit 36a according to the third embodiment has a tendency to read images determines whether or not the processing circuit 36a according to the first embodiment has been able to extract the tendency to read images. It is the same as the method of doing.

As shown in FIG. 10, the processing circuit 36a constructs the reconstruction condition based on the image interpretation tendency by executing the construction function 367 (step S33). The processing circuit 36a constructs, for example, the reconstruction conditions described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, the processing circuit 36a generates a CT image based on the reconstruction conditions constructed in step S33 by executing the image generation function 363 (step S34).

As shown in FIG. 10, the processing circuit 36a registers the CT image by executing the control function 368 (step S35). Specifically, the processing circuit 36a registers the CT images generated in steps S32 and S34. The processing circuit 36a appropriately displays the registered CT image on the display 32 by executing the display control function 364.

As shown in FIG. 10, the processing circuit 36a determines whether or not the CT image registered in step S35 has been referred to by the user (step S36). The processing circuit 36a determines, for example, whether or not all the CT images registered in step S35 have been referenced by the user. When it is determined that the CT image registered in step S35 is not referenced by the user (denial in step S36), the processing circuit 36a returns the processing to step S31. When it is determined that the CT image registered in step S35 has been referred to by the user (affirmation in step S36), the processing circuit 36a ends the processing in step S3 of FIG.

The X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment has been described above. Similar to the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment, the processing circuit 36a according to the third embodiment can match the number of CT images and the type of CT images with the interpretation tendency of the user. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment, like the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the first embodiment, communicates with a storage area of a storage medium for storing CT images and a network for transferring CT images. Road capacity can be saved.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment extracts the interpretation tendency, constructs the reconstruction condition, and generates the CT image in parallel with the collection of the interpretation information. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment can quickly generate and display a CT image that matches the image interpretation tendency of the user. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment extracts the image interpretation tendency again, constructs the reconstruction condition, and obtains the CT image when the CT image generated in this manner is not referred to. Generate. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1a according to the third embodiment quickly generates and displays a CT image that matches the user's image-reading tendency even if the CT image once generated does not match the user's image-reading tendency. can do.

(Fourth Embodiment)
The X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment will be described. In the description of the fourth embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the above-described embodiment are used for the same components as those in the above-described embodiment. Detailed description of the contents overlapping with the above-described embodiment will be omitted.

The X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment selects a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition from the CT images generated based on the preset reconstruction conditions or the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction function 367. And display the selected CT image.

The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1b according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the X-ray CT apparatus 1b includes a gantry 10, a bed 20, and a console 30b. The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1b is not limited to the following configuration.

The console 30b includes an input circuit 31, a display 32, a projection data storage circuit 33, an image storage circuit 34, a storage circuit 35, and a processing circuit 36b.

The processing circuit 36b has a scan control function 361, a preprocessing function 362, an image generation function 363, a display control function 364, an image interpretation information collection function 365, an image interpretation tendency extraction function 366, a construction function 367, a control function 368, and a selection function 369b. .. Details of the function of the selection function 369b will be described later. The processing circuit 36b is realized by, for example, a processor.

The process performed by the X-ray CT apparatus 1b according to the fourth embodiment in step S3 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed in step S3 of FIG. 2 by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a method for displaying a CT image by the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, the processing circuit 36b displays a CT image by executing the display control function 364 (step S41). The CT image displayed in step S41 is generated based on the preset reconstruction conditions or the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction function 367. The processing circuit 36b displays, for example, the CT image ImA shown in FIG. 13 on the display 32.

As shown in FIG. 12, the processing circuit 36b determines whether or not an operation on the CT image is being performed by executing the selection function 369b (step S42). The process of step S42 is, for example, as follows.

The processing circuit 36b reads a program corresponding to the selection function 369b from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The selection function 369b includes a function of determining whether or not an operation on the CT image is being performed. The operation on the CT image is, for example, an operation for enlarging the portion of the area R of interest of the CT image ImA shown in FIG. The CT image obtained by enlarging the portion of the area R of interest of the CT image ImA by bilinear interpolation or the like may be an unclear CT image like the CT image ImB shown in FIG.

Further, the operation on the CT image may be the movement to the other CT image described above. Alternatively, the operation for the CT image may be an operation for changing the window condition of the CT image being read. Here, the window condition specifically means a window width and a window level. The window width is a display range of CT values in a CT image. The window level is the center value of the window width.

When it is determined that the operation for the CT image is being performed (affirmation in step S42), the processing circuit 36b advances the processing to step S43. When it is determined that the operation for the CT image has not been performed (denial in step S42), the processing circuit 36b ends the processing in step S3 of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 12, the processing circuit 36b determines whether or not there is a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition by executing the selection function 369b (step S43). The process of step S43 is, for example, as follows.

The processing circuit 36b reads a program corresponding to the selection function 369b from the storage circuit 35 and executes it. The selection function 369b includes a function of determining whether or not there is a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition. When it is determined that there is a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition (affirmation in step S43), the processing circuit 36b advances the processing to step S44. When it is determined that there is no CT image satisfying the predetermined condition (denial in step S43), the processing circuit 36b ends the processing in step S3 of FIG.

Here, the predetermined condition is a condition related to an operation on a CT image. For example, when the user enlarges the portion of the area of interest R of the CT image ImA to a predetermined magnification or more, the processing circuit 36b has a CT image capable of interpreting the structure in the area of interest R of the CT image ImA in detail. Judge whether or not. The processing circuit 36b displays, for example, the CT image ImC shown in FIG. 13 on the display 32. The CT image ImC is a CT image capable of interpreting the same area as the CT image ImB in more detail.

Further, for example, when the user reduces the portion of the area of interest R of the CT image ImA to a predetermined magnification or more, the processing circuit 36b can roughly interpret the structure in the area of interest R of the CT image ImA. Determine if there is. Alternatively, when the user moves the CT image in a specific direction, the processing circuit 36b determines whether or not there is a CT image after the movement.

Alternatively, when the window condition of the CT image being read by the user is changed, the processing circuit 36b determines whether or not there is a CT image to be read according to the changed window condition. For example, when the user lowers the window level, the processing circuit 36b determines that the user interprets the lung field and determines whether or not there is a CT image including the lung field. In this case, the processing circuit 36b may determine whether or not there is a CT image including the lung field generated by using a reconstruction function suitable for the lung field.

As shown in FIG. 12, the processing circuit 36b displays a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition by executing the display control function 364 (step S44).

The X-ray CT apparatus 1b according to the fourth embodiment has been described above. As described above, the processing circuit 36b according to the fourth embodiment selects and displays a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition from the generated CT images. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1b according to the fourth embodiment can provide the user with only the CT image that needs to be interpreted.

The fourth embodiment is based on the premise that the CT image is generated based on the preset reconstruction conditions or the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction function 367, but the present invention is not limited to this. The X-ray CT apparatus 1b constructs a reconstruction condition based on the interpretation tendency instead of determining whether or not there is a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition in step S43, and based on the constructed reconstruction condition. A CT image may be generated.

(Fifth Embodiment)
The X-ray CT apparatus according to the fifth embodiment will be described. In the description of the fifth embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the above-described description of the embodiment are used for the same components as those in the above-described embodiment. Detailed description of the contents overlapping with the above-described embodiment will be omitted.

The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1c according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the X-ray CT apparatus 1c includes a pedestal 10, a bed 20, and a console 30c. The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1c is not limited to the following configuration.

The console 30c includes an input circuit 31, a display 32, a projection data storage circuit 33, an image storage circuit 34, a storage circuit 35, and a processing circuit 36c.

The processing circuit 36c has a scan control function 361, a preprocessing function 362, an image generation function 363, a display control function 364, an image interpretation information collection function 365, an image interpretation tendency extraction function 366, a construction function 367, a control function 368, and a transfer function 369c. .. The processing circuit 36c is realized by, for example, a processor.

By executing the transfer function 369c, the processing circuit 36c transfers only the CT image generated based on the image interpretation tendency by the method described above. The transfer destination of these CT images is, for example, a storage medium installed outside the X-ray CT apparatus 1c. The storage medium installed outside the X-ray CT apparatus 1c is, for example, a server for storing CT images.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1c according to the fifth embodiment has been described above. Only the CT image generated based on the processing circuit 36c interpretation tendency according to the fifth embodiment is transferred. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1c according to the fifth embodiment can save the storage area of the storage medium for storing the CT image and the communication path capacity of the network for transferring the CT image.

In the above-described embodiment, the X-ray CT device 1a, the X-ray CT device 1b, or the X-ray CT device 1c collects the image interpretation information and extracts the image interpretation tendency, but the present invention is not limited thereto. An image processing device installed separately from the X-ray CT device 1a, the X-ray CT device 1b, or the X-ray CT device 1c may collect image interpretation information and extract the image interpretation tendency.

The above-mentioned method can also be applied to a medical image diagnostic device other than the X-ray CT device. The method described above can also be used, for example, in a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus.

The above-mentioned processors include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), and a field programmable gate array. (Field Programmable Gate Array: FPGA). Further, the programmable logic device (PLD) is, for example, a simple programmable logic device (Simple Programmable Logic Device: SPLD) or a composite programmable logic device (Complex Programmable Logic Device: CPLD).

In the above-described embodiment, the high voltage generation circuit 11, the collimator adjustment circuit 12, the gantry drive circuit 13, the data acquisition circuit 16, the sleeper drive circuit 22, the processing circuit 36a, the processing circuit 36b, and the processing circuit 36c are stored in the storage circuit 35. The function was realized by reading and executing the provided program, but the function is not limited to this. Instead of storing the program in the storage circuit 35, the program may be directly incorporated in each of these circuits. In this case, these circuits realize their functions by directly reading and executing the embedded program.

The circuits shown in FIGS. 1, 11 and 14 may be appropriately distributed or integrated. For example, the processing circuit 36a functions as a scan control function 361, a preprocessing function 362, an image generation function 363, a display control function 364, an image interpretation information collection function 365, an image interpretation tendency extraction function 366, a construction function 367, and a control function 368. It may be distributed to a scan control circuit, a preprocessing circuit, an image generation circuit, a display control circuit, an image interpretation information collection circuit, an image interpretation tendency extraction circuit, a construction circuit, and a control circuit to be executed. Further, for example, the high voltage generation circuit 11, the collimator adjustment circuit 12, the gantry drive circuit 13, the data acquisition circuit 16, the sleeper drive circuit 22, and the processing circuit 36a may be arbitrarily integrated.

According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to provide a CT image having a quality suitable for the user.

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 gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention as well as the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

367 Construction function 363 Image generation function 364 Display control function

Claims (8)

A construction unit that constructs reconstruction conditions that are different inside and outside the region of interest based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image and that expands and reconstructs the region of interest .
Based on the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit, the number of CT images is smaller than that in the case where the reconstruction conditions are not different inside and outside the region of interest, and the CT images are enlarged and reconstructed within the region of interest. An image generator that generates a CT image including an image,
A display control unit that controls the display of the CT image generated by the image generation unit, and
An X-ray CT apparatus. An image interpretation information collecting unit that collects image interpretation information including at least one of information on operations performed on the CT image, time or number of times the CT image or a part thereof has been interpreted, and information on changes in reconstruction conditions.
When the image interpretation information collected by the image interpretation information collection unit satisfies a predetermined condition, the image interpretation tendency extraction unit that extracts the image interpretation tendency from the image interpretation information and the image interpretation tendency extraction unit.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the construction unit constructs a reconstruction condition based on the image interpretation tendency after the extraction of the image interpretation tendency by the image interpretation tendency extraction unit is completed. In parallel with the collection of the image interpretation information by the image interpretation information collection unit, the image interpretation tendency extraction unit extracts the image interpretation tendency, the construction unit constructs the reconstruction condition, and the image generation unit generates a CT image. , The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 2. A selection unit for selecting a CT image satisfying a predetermined condition from the CT images generated by the image generation unit is further provided.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display control unit controls to display a CT image selected by the selection unit. The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a transfer unit in which the image generation unit transfers only a CT image generated based on the image interpretation tendency. When the image generation unit receives an instruction to replace the preset reconstruction conditions with the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit, the image generation unit generates a CT image based on the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit. , The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A construction unit that constructs reconstruction conditions that are different inside and outside the region of interest based on the interpretation tendency of the CT image and that expands and reconstructs the region of interest .
Based on the reconstruction conditions constructed by the construction unit, the number of CT images is smaller than that in the case where the reconstruction conditions are not different inside and outside the region of interest, and the CT images are enlarged and reconstructed within the region of interest. An image generator that generates a CT image including an image,
A display control unit that controls the display of the CT image generated by the image generation unit, and
An image processing device.