JP6878022B2 - Medical diagnostic imaging equipment, servers and programs - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to medical diagnostic imaging equipment, servers and programs.

The protocol in the so-called medical field means the procedure and contents of an examination performed using a modality such as an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) device, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device, or an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging device. I often do it. Traditionally, protocols for medical tests have been created by experts with expertise. In recent years, there are known technologies for supporting the creation of a protocol by a computer (protocol editor) and automatically creating a protocol.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-033443 JP-A-2007-007255 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2008-229343 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-275440 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-1593965

It is desirable that the protocol be carefully designed according to a wide variety of factors such as the subject's symptoms, pathology, age, and gender. Therefore, it is considered to promote information sharing between modality by migrating the protocol management function incorporated in the modality to the server device. With such a technique, for example, it is possible to easily apply an imaging protocol having clinically similar meanings in different modality, and to easily share or modify an imaging protocol among engineers.

However, no technique is known that makes it possible to design a protocol in consideration of the characteristics of individual subjects. A technology that can realize such a demand is awaited.

An object of the present invention is to provide a medical diagnostic imaging apparatus, server and program capable of reflecting the characteristics of a subject in a test protocol.

According to the embodiment, the medical diagnostic imaging apparatus includes an imaging unit, an acquisition unit, an extraction unit, and an assist unit. The imaging unit photographs the subject and acquires medical image data based on a protocol that is a predetermined imaging procedure. The acquisition unit acquires biological information of the subject at least at the time of photographing from the sensor. The extraction unit processes the biological information acquired up to the previous examination to extract the characteristic information of the subject. The assist unit assists the design of the protocol for this test based on the characteristic information of the subject.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a medical information processing system to which the medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to the embodiment can be applied. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of modality 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI (Graphical User Interface) window related to the operation of modality 3. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the modality 3 shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the modality 3 shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the server 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of information in the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of information in the third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the GUI window related to the operation of modality 3. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which an unsuitable protocol and a non-suitable protocol are displayed separately in a protocol display area. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the narrowed down protocols as applicable protocols.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a medical information processing system to which the medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to the embodiment can be applied. In FIG. 1, the hospital system 100 is communicably connected to a cloud computing system (hereinafter referred to as a cloud) CL via a gateway GW. The cloud CL includes a server SV and a database DB, and provides, for example, an Infrastructure as a Service (IAAS) type service.

The hospital system 100 includes a modality 3, a console 2, a server 1, and a LAN (Local Area Network) 5 that connects them in a communicable manner. Modality 3 is a medical image diagnostic device such as an X-ray CT device, an MRI device, or an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging device. Modality 3 is operated by an operator via the console 2 to capture a subject and acquire a medical image according to a protocol. The acquired medical image is sent to the server 1 via the LAN 5 and stored. Further, the medical image can be sent to the cloud CL via the gateway GW and stored in the database DB.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of modality 3. In this embodiment, an X-ray CT apparatus is assumed as modality 3. The X-ray CT apparatus includes a scanning unit (gantry) 10 and a computer 20.
The scanning unit 10 has various mechanisms for CT scanning a subject P (patient or the like) with X-rays. The scanning unit 10 repeatedly executes a CT scan under the control of the scanning control unit 21 in the computer 20. That is, the scanning unit 10 photographs the subject according to the protocol and acquires X-ray projection data as medical image data.

A protocol (inspection protocol or imaging protocol) is broadly understood by those skilled in the art as information representing an imaging routine, such as scan order, type, time interval between scans, and scanning method. On the other hand, in a narrow sense, the protocol indicates parameters such as tube voltage, tube current, imaging angle, and X-ray dose during one scan. In the embodiment, both broad and narrow protocols can be applied. The protocol can also be understood as a predetermined imaging procedure.

The protocol may also mean, for example, a set of a series of programs related to radiography such as an imaging purpose, an inspection type, an imaging method, and an X-ray imaging condition. For example, as a series of protocols for obtaining an image of the brain, for example, a protocol for collecting a positioning image, a protocol for shimming imaging, a protocol for imaging scanning, and the like can be mentioned.

The protocol may also mean pulse sequence information including preset information (preset information) of imaging conditions. For example, an operator such as a doctor or a technician reads out a group of protocols managed and provided by a modality or a server on a GUI (Graphical User Interface) when making an imaging plan for an examination, and changes preset information as necessary. , Incorporate these into the imaging plan.

Each protocol includes "Scan ID" corresponding to the name of the protocol, "Time" which is the imaging time of the protocol, TR (Repetition Time), TE (Echo Time), FA (Flip Angle), and the number of slices. (NS (Number Of Slice)), FOV (Field Of View), slice thickness (ST (Slice Thickness)), and other setting information of various imaging parameters may be included.

The scanning unit 10 rotatably supports a ring-shaped or disk-shaped rotating frame 12. A scan region into which the subject P placed on the top plate 14 is inserted is formed on the inner peripheral side of the rotating frame 12. The top plate 14 is slidably supported along the longitudinal direction and the vertical direction by a sleeper (not shown).

Here, the XYZ Cartesian coordinate system is defined. The Z axis is defined as the rotation axis of the rotation frame 12. The top plate 14 is arranged so that the longitudinal direction is parallel to the Z-axis direction. The X-axis is defined as the horizontal axis and the Y-axis is defined as the vertical axis.

The rotating frame 12 has an X-ray tube 11 and an X-ray detector 15. The X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 15 face each other with the subject P placed on the top plate 14 interposed therebetween. The rotation frame 12 continuously rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 15 in response to the supply of the drive signal from the rotation drive unit 19.

The X-ray tube 11 generates X-rays by receiving the high voltage supplied from the high voltage generating unit 18 and the filament current. The X-ray irradiation time interval for the subject is, for example, 10 times per second. The high voltage generation unit 18 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 11 according to the control by the scan control unit 21 in the computer 20 to supply the tube current. Since the tube current changes by changing the voltage value of the high voltage, the X-ray dose can be changed.

An X-ray collimator 13 is attached to the X-ray irradiation port side of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray collimator 13 limits the irradiation field of X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 11. Specifically, the X-ray collimator 13 has a plurality of diaphragm blades made of a material (lead or the like) that is movably supported and shields X-rays. By adjusting the positions of the plurality of diaphragm blades, the size and shape of the X-ray irradiation field are changed. The X-ray collimator 13 moves the diaphragm blades by receiving a drive signal from the scan control unit 21.

The X-ray detector 15 detects the X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 11 and transmitted through the subject P, and generates a current signal according to the intensity of the detected X-rays. A data acquisition circuit (DAS) 16 is connected to the X-ray detector 15.

The data acquisition circuit 16 collects a current signal from the X-ray detector 15 under the control of the scan control unit 21. The data acquisition circuit 16 generates digital projection data by amplifying the collected current signal and digitally converting the amplified current signal. Each time the projection data is generated, it is supplied to the computer 20 via the non-contact data transmission unit 17. By repeating the CT scan by the scanning unit 10, time-series projection data is generated and supplied to the computer 20.

Further, the modality 3 includes a sensor unit 30. The sensor unit 30 acquires the biological information of the subject P inserted in the gantry of the scanning unit 10 from, for example, the probe 29 attached to the subject P. The sensor unit 30 acquires at least one of vital data such as the electrocardiographic pattern, heart rate, or respiratory information, body temperature, and sweating amount of the subject P as biological information, for example.

At least the biological information acquired during the imaging of the subject P is stored in the storage unit 24 of the computer 20 in association with the subject ID (IDentification). Alternatively, the acquired biometric information is stored in the storage unit 24 in association with the protocol (biological information 24a).

Alternatively, the biological information may be transferred to the server 1 via the LAN 5 and stored in the database. Further, it may be stored in the database DB of the cloud CL via the gateway GW.

The computer 20 includes a preprocessing unit 26, a reconstruction unit 27, a control circuit 28, a scan control unit 21, a display unit 22, an operation unit 23, and a storage unit 24.

The preprocessing unit 26 performs preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion (log conversion) and sensitivity correction on the projection data (referred to as pure raw data) supplied in real time from the data collection circuit 16. The preprocessing generates projection data used for image reconstruction. Raw data is created by preprocessing pure raw data. In the embodiment, arithmetic processing is performed using both raw data and pure raw data. The pure raw data is, in short, data of the count value of X-rays detected by the X-ray detector 15. The raw data is data obtained by converting pure raw data into logs, and corresponds to the transmission length of X-rays in the imaging body.

The reconstructing unit 27 reconstructs a CT image based on scan data (projection data or raw data) obtained by scanning the subject P by the scanning unit 10.

The scan control unit 21 controls the scan unit 10 in order to perform a CT scan of the subject P with X-rays. That is, the scan control unit 21 controls the scan unit 10 according to the protocol prepared for the subject P. The scan control unit 21 controls the scan unit 10 (specifically, the rotation drive unit 19, the high voltage generation unit 18, the X-ray collimator 13, and the data acquisition circuit 16) in order to continue scanning.

The display unit 22 displays the protocol on the viewer, displays the reconstructed image, the time concentration curve of the contrast medium, and the like on the display device. The display device is, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like.

The operation unit 23 receives various commands and information inputs from the operator. For example, the operation unit 23 inputs the ROI (Region of Interest) setting position by the user via the input device. The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a switch, or the like. The operation unit 23 can also be used, for example, to give a command to the device to display the protocol on the viewer, or to edit the displayed protocol.

The storage unit 24 is a memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory), or a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD). In addition to the magnetic disk, an optical disk such as a magneto-optical disk, a CD (Compact Disc), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) may be used as the storage unit 24.

The storage unit 24 stores projection data, CT image data, general-purpose protocol setting data, and the like. In addition, the storage unit 24 stores the biological information 24a of the subject P acquired by the sensor unit 30 and the feature information 24b extracted from the biological information. Further, the storage unit 24 stores a program 24c including an instruction for realizing a new processing function such as an acquisition function 28a, an extraction function 28b, and an assist function 28c of the control circuit 28.

The control circuit 28 reads out the program 24c stored in the storage unit 24, expands it on the memory, and controls each unit according to the expanded program 24c. The control circuit 28 includes an acquisition function 28a, an extraction function 28b, and an assist function 28c as new processing functions according to the embodiment.

That is, in addition to the code that causes the computer 20 to function as the storage unit 24, the control program includes a code that causes the computer 20 to function as an acquisition unit having an acquisition function 28a, a code that causes the computer 20 to function as an extraction unit having an extraction function 28b, and an assist function. Includes a code that functions as an assist unit having 28c.

The acquisition function 28a acquires at least the biological information 24a of the subject P acquired during imaging by the scanning unit 10 of the X-ray CT apparatus from the sensor unit 30. It should be noted that the term “during shooting” does not mean only during irradiation with X-rays. When the subject P is lying on the bed from the time it enters the X-ray imaging room until it exits, or when the top plate 14 slides and the subject P is inside the gantry, it is called shooting. You may.

The extraction function 28b processes the biological information 24a acquired during imaging by the scanning unit 10 of the X-ray CT apparatus to extract the characteristic information of the subject P. The extracted feature information is associated with the subject P and stored in the storage unit 24 (feature information 24b).

Characteristic information is, for example, information such as increased tension and increased sweating due to invasion of the gantry, increased heart rate, inability to stop breathing sufficiently when it should be stopped, and increased or decreased body temperature. Is. These characteristic information may indicate, for example, the psychological tendency of the subject P. In addition to this, information indicating a tendency of body movement, such as an unconscious change in posture as the top plate 14 moves, can be included in the feature information. Body movement can be detected by, for example, an image sensor. Alternatively, body movement can be detected from changes in the subject in images taken in chronological order.

The feature information can be understood as information recorded in association with, for example, an image photographing protocol (type of image photographing) and a change in biological information of a subject.

For example, the amount of perspiration detected by the perspiration sensor is an example of biological information. The information that the amount of sweating exceeds a predetermined value during image taking is fed back to the next examination (photographing) as characteristic information of the subject.

The heart rate detected by the ECG (heart rate sensor) is also an example of biological information. The heart rate exceeded the default value during image capture, the degree of fluctuation of the heart rate exceeded the default value during image capture, or the incidence of beats that could not be recognized as normal heart rate exceeded the default value. Is fed back to the next examination (imaging) as the characteristic information of the subject.

The body temperature detected by the body temperature sensor is also an example of biological information. The information that the body temperature deviates from the predetermined range during the image taking is fed back to the next examination (photographing) as the characteristic information of the subject.

The information detected by the respiratory sensor is also an example of biological information. The information that the time cycle of exhaled inspiration falls below / exceeds a predetermined normal range during image taking is fed back to the next picture as characteristic information of the subject. Information that breathing has occurred during the imaging of an examination (lung field CT imaging, etc.) taken while holding the breath after inspiration is also fed back to the next examination (imaging) as characteristic information of the subject.

The information detected by the body motion sensor is also an example of biological information. The information that the body movement of a predetermined distance or more has occurred during the image taking is fed back to the next examination (photographing) as the characteristic information of the subject.

Feature information can be understood as a combination of protocol and changes in biometric information. For example, in the case of MR imaging of the head, information that the body movement of the head has occurred, or in the case of CT imaging of the lung field, information that breathing has occurred during the imaging, etc., is the characteristic information of the subject. Recorded as.

Furthermore, it is also possible to include the elapsed time of the event included in the protocol from the time of occurrence in the feature information. For example, in the case of contrast-enhanced CT imaging, the information that the body movement occurred 2 minutes after the injection of the contrast medium is also one of the characteristic information.

For example, by filtering the acquired biological information in association with a time stamp or a subject ID, it is possible to extract characteristic information peculiar to each subject. Roughly speaking, it is easy to distinguish whether CT imaging is not good or not, and body movements are likely to occur several minutes after injection of contrast medium. Some parts of the body, such as the head, cause body movements compared to other parts. Easy to use is one of the characteristic information.

In particular, the extraction function 28b extracts the feature information 24b of the subject P based on the biological information 24a stored in the storage unit 24 or the database DB of the server 1 or the cloud CL.

In addition, the extraction function 28b extracts the characteristic information of the subject P based on the causal relationship between the protocol applied to the subject P up to the previous examination and the medical image data acquired based on the applied protocol. You may. That is, if an image (artifact) showing body movement is recognized in the medical image data taken under a certain protocol, it is possible to grasp the tendency that the body movement is likely to occur in that protocol.

The assist function 28c assists the design of the protocol for this test based on the characteristic information of the subject P acquired and collected up to the previous test. For example, the assist function 28c designs a protocol based on the feature information collected up to the previous examination in order to obtain a clear image of the imaging target portion of the subject P when the imaging target region of the subject P is specified by the inspection order. May be assisted.

For example, the assist function 28c creates a protocol for this inspection based on the extracted feature information. For example, the assist function 28c modifies a general-purpose protocol based on the characteristic information of the subject P to create a protocol for this test. By using a protocol that reflects the characteristic information instead of the general-purpose protocol, it is possible to realize imaging in consideration of the characteristics of each subject. As a result, the quality of medical images can be improved and used for diagnosis.

The created protocol can be displayed in a GUI window as shown in FIG. 3, for example. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI window related to the operation of modality 3. The operator operates the modality 3 according to the contents displayed in such a window. At that time, in the embodiment, the feature information of the subject P is displayed in this window.
Next, a plurality of embodiments will be described based on the above configuration.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the modality 3 shown in FIG. This flowchart shows a processing procedure by modality 3 during imaging of subject P. In FIG. 4, when the X-ray imaging of the subject P is started (step S11), the modality 3 (X-ray CT apparatus) acquires biological information from the sensor unit 30 in parallel with the imaging (step S12). .. The acquired biometric information is stored in the storage unit 24 or the database DB (step S14). When the imaging is completed, the modality 3 extracts the characteristic information of the subject P from the biological information (step S14). The extracted feature information is recorded in the storage unit 24 or the database DB in association with the subject ID (step S15).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the modality 3 shown in FIG. When the imaging flow is started, for example, a doctor who uses the hospital information management system (HIS) gives the modality 3 an examination order (instruction) in which the subject ID is specified (step S21). Then, the modality 3 searches the storage unit 24 and the database DB, and determines the presence or absence of the characteristic information of the designated subject (step S22).

If there is no feature information (No), the modality 3 reads out a general-purpose protocol from the storage unit 24 according to the rough features (age, gender, etc.) of the subject P based on the test order (step S23). The read protocol is displayed in the GUI window of the display unit 22, for example, in a list format, and is presented to an operator of modality 3 (radiologist or the like) (step S25).

On the other hand, if the feature information extracted in the past is found in step S22 (Yes), the assist function 28c of the control circuit 28 modifies the protocol based on the test order according to the feature information, and features of the subject P. Create a protocol that reflects the information (step S24). The created protocol is displayed in the GUI window of the display unit 22, for example, in a list format, and is presented to an operator of modality 3 (radiologist or the like) (step S25).

The operator selects one protocol from the presented protocols. Then, the scan control unit 21 of the modality 3 controls the scan unit 10 according to the selected protocol, and starts photographing the subject P (step S26).

In clinical practice, the following examples can be considered. For example, given an order and subject ID dataset of "performing a CT scan of the lung field to confirm nodules in the lung field," the operator selects an order-based protocol. At that time, if there is no feature information, the operator will select an arbitrary one from a group of ordinary protocols.

On the other hand, if there is characteristic information of the subject, the modality 3 modifies the general-purpose protocol or creates a new protocol according to the characteristic information. The operator can select any one from the group of protocols created according to the feature information.

In general, when performing a helical scan on the lung field, it is necessary to hold your breath during the helical scan. The group of default protocols corresponding to the order "to take a CT scan of the lung field to confirm nodules in the lung field" also includes a protocol for helical scanning into the lung field. However, if the subject to be imaged has the characteristic information that "breathing occurred (cannot hold breath) during lung field imaging", it is preferable not to use the helical scan protocol. Therefore, in the embodiment, for example, a step-and-shoot protocol is created as a protocol for this inspection and presented to the operator.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the biological information of the subject P is recorded and accumulated during imaging, and the characteristic information such as the change in heart rate and the change in respiration generated during scanning is collected from the biological information. Extract for each sample. The extracted feature information may be stored in the modality 3, recorded in the server 1 via the LAN 5 of the hospital system 100, or stored in the database DB of the cloud CL. Then, at the next examination of the subject, if there is characteristic information of the corresponding subject, a protocol that reflects the characteristic information is created and used for imaging.

Existing techniques cannot design protocols tailored to the individual characteristics of the subject. Therefore, it was not possible to utilize the events such as the increase in heart rate that occurred during the previous shooting and the exhalation during the shooting as knowledge for the next examination. For this reason, not only is it time-consuming to retake each shot, but also the amount of exposure may increase.

On the other hand, in the first embodiment, changes in heart rate and respiration that occur during scanning are extracted from biological information such as an electrocardiogram and respiration measurement recorded during imaging, and characteristics of individual subjects are obtained. Store in the system as information. Then, a protocol based on the characteristic information was created and applied at the time of this examination of the same subject.

By doing so, it becomes possible to feed back the knowledge obtained at each shooting to the next shooting, and it becomes possible to shoot the subject in a more intelligent manner. Furthermore, it becomes possible to improve the test efficiency and reduce the burden on the subject (patient). From these facts, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to provide a medical diagnostic imaging apparatus, a server, and a control method capable of reflecting the characteristics of a subject in a protocol.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the server 1. The server 1 includes a storage unit 31, a communication unit 32, and a processing circuit 33. Of these, the communication unit 32 is connected to the LAN 5 and functions as an interface for communicating with the PACS 4 and the modality 3.

The storage unit 31 stores the biological information (31a), the feature information (31b), and the program (31c) described in the first embodiment. The processing circuit 33 includes an acquisition function 33a, an extraction function 33b, and an assist function 33c.

The program 31c includes a code that causes the server 1 as a computer to function as an acquisition unit having an acquisition function 33a, a code that functions as an extraction unit that has an extraction function 33b, and a code that functions as an assist unit that has an assist function 33c. Including. The acquisition function 33a, the extraction function 33b, and the assist function 33c have the same functions as the acquisition function 28a, the extraction function 28b, and the assist function 28c described in the first embodiment, respectively. That is, the second embodiment corresponds to a mode in which the server 1 is provided with the function of the computer 20 shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of information in the second embodiment. In FIG. 7, the biological information acquired at the time of photographing using the modality 3 is sent to the server 1 via the console 2. The server 1 extracts the feature information of the subject P by the same procedure as described in the first embodiment. The extracted feature information will be used for the next and subsequent shootings of modality 3.

Even in such a form, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition to this, in the second embodiment, since the resources required for the calculation are taken out of the modality 3, there is an effect that the configuration of the modality 3 can be simplified accordingly.

[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of information in the third embodiment. In FIG. 8, the biometric information acquired at the time of photographing using the modality 3 is sent from the console 2 to the server SV of the cloud CL via the gateway GW. The server SV has the same function as the server 1 shown in FIG. 6, stores the acquired biological information in the database DB, and calculates the characteristic information of the subject by the same procedure as the flowchart shown in FIG.

Prior to shooting with modality 3, the server SV prepares a protocol in the same procedure as the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, and notifies the console 2 of this protocol via the gateway GW. Modality 3 initiates imaging of subject P according to the notified protocol.

With such a configuration, it becomes possible to share the characteristic information of the same subject among a plurality of hospitals. In addition, since the computing power of the cloud CL can be utilized, it goes without saying that merits such as improvement in throughput can be obtained.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the GUI window related to the operation of modality 3. FIG. 9 shows an example of a GUI screen displayed by, for example, scan plan creation utility software. This window is displayed, for example, on the display of console 2 (FIG. 1).

Various information related to shooting by modality 3 is displayed in the window. For example, the patient information (ID, Name, etc.) of the subject to be examined, the imaging area by modality 3, the main menu, and the like are displayed in the window. Further, this window includes an area (protocol display area) for displaying the protocol related to the inspection this time.

In the first embodiment, the protocol for this inspection is created based on the feature information acquired up to the previous inspection. In the fourth embodiment, a protocol that should not be applied to the inspection this time (inappropriate protocol) is specified based on the feature information acquired up to the previous inspection, and the result is presented to the operator.

In a fourth embodiment, the assist function 28c identifies an unsuitable protocol to be excluded based on the extracted feature information of subject P. Then, the assist function 28c displays the identified unsuitable protocol in the console window in distinction from other protocols.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which an unsuitable protocol and a non-suitable protocol are displayed separately in a protocol display area. Among the protocols shown in FIG. 10, the protocols AAA and CCC are the protocols applicable to the inspection this time, and one of them can be specified by clicking the mouse in the window. Protocol BBB, on the other hand, is an identified unsuitable protocol that is highlighted to distinguish it from the protocols AAA and CCC and is not selectable by clicking.

As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the protocol that should not be applied (inappropriate protocol) is specified based on the characteristic information of the subject, and is highlighted on the GUI window. Even in this way, the characteristic information of the subject obtained up to the previous test can be utilized as knowledge in the latest test, which can be useful for improving the quality of the test.

[Fifth Embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment, the unsuitable protocol is identified, and the protocol applicable to the subject is narrowed down based on the result.

In a fifth embodiment, the assist function 28c identifies an unsuitable protocol to be excluded based on the extracted feature information of subject P. Then, the assist function 28c narrows down the applicable protocols from a plurality of protocols (protocol groups) based on the identified inappropriate protocol, and displays the result in the GUI window.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the narrowed down protocols as applicable protocols. The protocols AAA, CCC and DDD shown in FIG. 11 are the protocols applicable to the inspection this time, and all of them can be specified by clicking the mouse.

In addition, the order of display between protocols may be changed based on a default metric. For example, when the protocols AAA, CCC and DDD are evaluated based on the index of exposure dose, it is assumed that the results of protocol CCC <AAA <DDD are obtained in ascending order of exposure dose. The protocol CCC may be arranged at the most prominent position (top) in the window of FIG. 11, and may be arranged in the order of CCC, AAA, and DDD from the top. In addition, the applicable protocol can be evaluated based on an arbitrary index such as imaging time, and the result can be reflected in the display order.

As described above, in the fifth embodiment, the protocol that should not be applied (inappropriate protocol) is specified based on the characteristic information of the subject, and only the applicable protocol narrowed down based on the result is displayed in the GUI window. I made it. Even in this way, the characteristic information of the subject obtained up to the previous test can be utilized as knowledge in the latest test, which can be useful for improving the quality of the test.

The present invention is not limited to each of the above embodiments.
For example, in the first embodiment, it was explained that a protocol that reflects the characteristic information of the subject P is created, and this protocol is applied to take an image at the next examination. Not limited to this, the created protocol may be proposed only in the GUI window, and it may be left to the operator whether or not to apply the protocol to the actual shooting. Alternatively, the feature information may be simply displayed as supplementary information in the GUI window. For example, the assist function 28c may simply identify the fact that "the heart rate has increased from the normal state in the previous examination" based on the subject ID, and display that fact on the display unit 22. When the assist function 28c recognizes that, for example, biological information (change in heart rate or respiratory frequency) exceeds a predetermined threshold value by a predetermined ratio, the assist function 28c identifies that fact has occurred. In this way, the operator can refer to the displayed information and set a more appropriate protocol.

Further, in the embodiment, the knowledge obtained by the X-ray CT apparatus is utilized for the next imaging of the X-ray CT apparatus. Not limited to this, for example, the feature information obtained by the X-ray CT apparatus may be utilized when photographing by the MRI apparatus. That is, the knowledge obtained in the first modality may be used for creating a protocol at the time of shooting by the second modality. Information sharing across such modality has a high affinity with the form of using the cloud CL service, as in the third embodiment.

Further, in the embodiment, an IaaS type service that provides resources such as a server device, a central processing unit, and storage as a service (public cloud) is assumed. Instead of this, a SaaS (Software as a Service) type cloud that provides applications (software) as a service, or a PaaS (Platform as a Service) type cloud that provides a platform for running applications as a service. It is also possible to use it.

Further, for example, the functions of the preprocessing unit 26, the reconstruction unit 27, the scan control unit 21, the display unit 22, and the operation unit 23 in FIG. 2 are stored in the storage unit 24 in the form of a program that can be executed by the control circuit 28, for example. Can be remembered in. The control circuit 28 includes a processor that realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading a program from a storage circuit (storage unit 24) and executing the program. In other words, the control circuit 28 in the state where each program is read has each function shown in the computer 20 of FIG.

Instead of storing the program in the storage circuit, it is also possible to embed the program directly in the circuit of the processor. In this type of form, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program embedded in a circuit.

In FIG. 2, it is exemplified that a single computer 20 realizes the functions of the acquisition function 28a, the extraction function 28b, and the assist function 28c by a single processor (control circuit 28). Alternatively, a plurality of independent processors may be combined to form a processing circuit, and each processor may execute a program to realize each function.

The word "processor" used in the above description includes, for example, CPU (Central processing unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), Programmable Logic Device (for example, SPLD (Simple Programmable Logic Device), CPLD). (Complex Programmable Logic Device) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc.) circuit.

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 novel embodiments can be implemented in various other embodiments, 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, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

1 ... Server, 2 ... Console, 3 ... Modality, 10 ... Scan, 11 ... X-ray tube, 12 ... Rotating frame, 13 ... X-ray collimeter, 14 ... Top plate, 15 ... X-ray detector, 16 ... Data collection Circuit, 17 ... non-contact data transmission unit, 18 ... high voltage generator, 19 ... rotation drive unit, 20 ... computer, 21 ... scan control unit, 22 ... display unit, 23 ... operation unit, 24 ... storage unit, 24a ... Biological information, 24b ... feature information, 24c ... program, 26 ... preprocessing unit, 27 ... reconstruction unit, 28 ... control circuit, 28a ... acquisition function, 28b ... extraction function, 28c ... assist function, 29 ... probe, 30 ... Sensor unit, 31 ... storage unit, 31c ... program, 32 ... communication unit, 33 ... processing circuit, 33a ... acquisition function, 33b ... extraction function, 33c ... assist function, 100 ... hospital system

Claims (19)

An imaging unit that photographs a subject and acquires medical image data based on a protocol that is a predetermined imaging procedure.
An acquisition unit that acquires at least biological information of the subject at the time of imaging from the sensor, and
An extraction unit that processes the biological information acquired up to the previous examination and extracts the characteristic information of the subject.
This time, it is equipped with an assist unit that assists the design of the protocol for the test based on the characteristic information of the subject .
The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, the protocol for this inspection was created.
If the feature information of the subject includes the inability to hold breath during lung field imaging, a protocol that does not include a helical scan protocol to the lung field but includes a step-and-shoot protocol to the lung field is used in this test. Created as a protocol for
A medical diagnostic imaging apparatus that presents the protocol for this examination created above. The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, identify the unsuitable protocol to be excluded and
The medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identified unsuitable protocol is presented separately from other protocols. The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, identify the unsuitable protocol to be excluded and
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a protocol applicable to the subject is narrowed down and presented based on the specified unsuitable protocol. The assist unit is
The medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, which assists in the design of the protocol based on the designated imaging target site of the subject. In addition, it is equipped with a storage unit.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the extraction unit stores the extracted feature information in association with the subject in the storage unit. The medical image diagnosis according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit stores the acquired biological information in a database via a network, and the extraction unit extracts the characteristic information based on the accumulated biological information. apparatus. The medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires at least one of biological information such as heart rate, respiration information, body temperature, and sweating amount. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the feature information is information indicating a tendency of the body movement of the subject. The extraction unit is specific when the image is taken using a specific protocol based on the protocol applied to the subject up to the previous examination and the medical image data acquired based on the applied protocol. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a tendency of a feature amount obtained from a subject is extracted as feature information of the specific subject. Acquisition of biometric information at least at the time of imaging on a server capable of communicating with a medical image diagnostic device that acquires medical image data by photographing the subject based on a protocol that is a predetermined imaging procedure. Department and
An extraction unit that processes the biological information acquired up to the previous examination and extracts the characteristic information of the subject.
This time, it is equipped with an assist unit that assists the design of the protocol for the test based on the characteristic information of the subject .
The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, the protocol for this inspection was created.
If the feature information of the subject includes the inability to hold breath during lung field imaging, a protocol that does not include a helical scan protocol to the lung field but includes a step-and-shoot protocol to the lung field is used in this test. Created as a protocol for
A server that presents the protocol for this inspection created above. The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, the protocol for this inspection was created.
The server according to claim 10 , which presents the created protocol. The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, identify the unsuitable protocol to be excluded and
The server according to claim 10 , wherein the identified unsuitable protocol is presented separately from other protocols. The assist unit is
Based on the extracted feature information, identify the unsuitable protocol to be excluded and
The server according to claim 10 , wherein a protocol applicable to the subject is narrowed down and presented based on the identified unsuitable protocol. The assist unit is
The server according to claim 10 , which assists in the design of the protocol based on the designated imaging target site of the subject. In addition, it is equipped with a storage unit.
The server according to claim 10 , wherein the extraction unit stores the extracted feature information in association with the subject in the storage unit. The acquisition unit stores the acquired biometric information in a database via a network, and then stores the acquired biometric information in a database.
The server according to claim 10 , wherein the extraction unit extracts the feature information based on the accumulated biological information. The server according to claim 10 , wherein the acquisition unit acquires at least one of biological information such as heart rate, respiration information, body temperature, and sweating amount. The server according to claim 10 , wherein the feature information is information indicating a tendency of the body movement of the subject. A program executed by a computer that controls a medical image diagnostic device that photographs a subject and acquires medical image data based on a protocol that is a predetermined imaging procedure.
A code that causes the computer to acquire biometric information of the subject at least at the time of photographing from the sensor.
A code for causing the computer to process the biological information acquired up to the previous examination and extract the characteristic information of the subject.
The computer, see contains the code for causing the assist on the basis of a protocol designed for this test on the feature information of the object,
The assisting code causes the protocol for the present examination to be created based on the extracted feature information, and if the feature information of the subject includes the inability to hold a breath at the time of taking a lung field, the lung field is input. Includes code that causes a protocol that does not include the helical scan protocol and includes a step-and-shoot protocol to the lung field to be created as the protocol for this test and to present the protocol for this test that was created . program.

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