US20040066885A1 - X-ray diagnosis apparatus - Google Patents

X-ray diagnosis apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20040066885A1
US20040066885A1 US10/609,646 US60964603A US2004066885A1 US 20040066885 A1 US20040066885 A1 US 20040066885A1 US 60964603 A US60964603 A US 60964603A US 2004066885 A1 US2004066885 A1 US 2004066885A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
ray
diagnosis apparatus
ray source
compensation filter
source
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/609,646
Inventor
Kenichi Ogawa
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Toshiba Corp
Original Assignee
Toshiba Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Toshiba Corp filed Critical Toshiba Corp
Assigned to KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA reassignment KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: OGAWA, KENICHI
Publication of US20040066885A1 publication Critical patent/US20040066885A1/en
Priority to US11/539,544 priority Critical patent/US7336768B2/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B6/00Apparatus for radiation diagnosis, e.g. combined with radiation therapy equipment
    • A61B6/54Control of apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis
    • A61B6/542Control of apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis involving control of exposure
    • A61B6/544Control of apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis involving control of exposure dependent on patient size
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B6/00Apparatus for radiation diagnosis, e.g. combined with radiation therapy equipment
    • A61B6/06Diaphragms
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B6/00Apparatus for radiation diagnosis, e.g. combined with radiation therapy equipment
    • A61B6/54Control of apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis
    • A61B6/542Control of apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis involving control of exposure

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an X-ray diagnosis apparatus and a method for creating an X-ray image.
  • a conventional X-ray diagnosis apparatus irradiates an X-ray from an X-ray tube to a patient, and detects the X-ray penetrated through the patient with an image intensifier (hereinafter referred to as I.I.), which changes the X-ray into a light and an imaging tube or a charge coupled device changes the light into an electronic signal or a flat panel detector (hereinafter called as a FPD) directly changes the X-ray into the electronic signal.
  • I.I. image intensifier
  • FPD flat panel detector
  • the X-ray apparatus enables an operator to observe flow and movement of a contrast agent inside the patient on a display.
  • the fluoroscopic image is stored in a memory and used for various image processes, such as enlargement/contrast adjustment/space filter processes or minimum/maximum trace processes or subtraction process or adding process for removing a noise, and the like.
  • the subtraction process for obtaining a subtraction image of a part of the patient using the X-ray diagnosis apparatus is explained below.
  • the fluoroscopic image, a mask image, and a contrast image are obtained.
  • the fluoroscopic image is used for setting a position of an X-ray diaphragm and a compensation filter.
  • the mask image and the contrast image are basic images to create the subtraction image.
  • an imaging for obtaining the fluoroscopic image is called a fluoroscopic imaging
  • an imaging for obtaining a mask image and a contrast image is called a main imaging.
  • the operator sets X-ray fluoroscopic terms (X-ray tube voltage, X-ray tube current, fluoroscopic time, etc.), considering patient information, such as a patient age, sex, the portion of the body being imaged and other factors (such as, but not limited to, patient condition, pregnancy status, medical conditions, allergy to the contrast agent, specific needed nursing care).
  • the X-ray is irradiated to the patient based on the fluoroscopic factors, and the fluoroscopic image is displayed on the display.
  • the operator adjusts a position of a supporting unit for supporting the X-ray tube and the I.I., in order to position an imaging area at an appropriate part of the patient.
  • the operator sets positions of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter, observing the fluoroscopic image.
  • the main imaging starts after the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are set.
  • the mask image and the contrast image are obtained in order.
  • the mask image is aligned to the contrast image, and the subtraction process between these images is performed.
  • the subtraction image is displayed on the display in a real time.
  • the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are fixed at such a position that the imaging area is adequate during the main imaging, such as during a bolus chase imaging where the X-ray and the I.I. automatically move. That is, wherever the X-ray tube and the I.I. move within the imaging area, the X-ray irradiated to the patient is not blocked or attenuated.
  • the X-ray diaphragm is fixed during the main imaging, the irradiation range of the X-ray is wide, the amount of the X-ray irradiated to the patient increases, and the influence of scattered X-ray appears.
  • One aspect of the present invention is an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a diaphragm configured to restrict an irradiation range of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the bed, and a controller configured to control the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction.
  • an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a diaphragm configured to restrict irradiation range of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the bed, and a controller configured to control the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source.
  • an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the bed, and a controller configured to control the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction.
  • an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the bed, and a controller configured to control the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray.
  • an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to move a position of the X-ray source to parallel to the bed, and a controller configured to control the compensation filter to move in an opposite direction to a direction of movement of the X-ray source at the same speed as the movement of the X-ray source such that the compensation filter relatively stops to the bed.
  • Another aspect of the present invention is a method for obtaining an X-ray image including irradiating an X-ray to an object, restricting an irradiation range of the X-ray, detecting the X-ray penetrated through the object, moving a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the bed, and controlling the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray diagnosis apparatus in a first embodiment
  • FIG. 2 is a top view of an X-ray diaphragm unit of the X-ray diagnosis apparatus in the first embodiment
  • FIG. 3A is a sectional view of a compensation filter unit
  • FIG. 3B is a top view of the compensation filter
  • FIG. 4 is a flow chart for setting an X-ray diaphragm and a compensation filter in the first embodiment
  • FIG. 5 is an illustration of an example displayed on a display unit in the first embodiment
  • FIG. 6 is a table stored in a diaphragm and compensation filter memory in the first embodiment
  • FIG. 7 is a flow chart for obtaining a contrast image in the first embodiment
  • FIG.8A is an illustration for explaining an operation of the X-ray diaphragm in the first embodiment
  • FIG.8B is an illustration for explaining an X-ray image in the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 9 is an illustration for explaining an operation of the compensation filter.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray diagnosis apparatus.
  • the X direction is approximately parallel to a width direction of a patient
  • the Y direction is approximately parallel to a body axis of the patient
  • the Z direction is approximately parallel to a thickness direction of the patient.
  • an X-ray diagnosis apparatus includes a supporting unit 16 and a main control unit 12 .
  • the supporting unit 16 includes a C-arm and a bed 17 .
  • An X-ray tube 11 that irradiates an X-ray is mounted on one side of the C arm, and an X-ray diaphragm unit 13 that blocks the X-ray irradiated to an unnecessary area is provided on a patient P side of the X-ray tube 11 .
  • a compensation filter unit 15 that attenuates the X-ray to restrain halation is also provided on the patient P side of the X-ray tube 11 .
  • an X-ray grid 4 which cuts a scattering X-ray penetrated through the patient P; an I.I.
  • the main control unit 12 includes a system control unit 25 ; an X-ray control unit 29 , which controls a high voltage generating unit 31 to generate high voltage impressed to the X-ray tube 11 ; an X-ray diaphragm control unit 33 , which controls the degree (X, Y direction) of opening between X-ray diaphragms; and a compensation filter control unit 35 , which controls a position (X direction); a rotation angle 4 , and a type of a compensation filter in the compensation filter unit 15 .
  • the main control unit 12 includes a supporting control unit 37 that controls a position (Y direction) of the C-arm to the bed 17 , an I.I. control unit 39 that controls the I.I.
  • the main control unit 12 includes a display unit 43 that displays the X-ray image obtained by the TV camera 23 , a diaphragm, and compensation filter memory 14 that stores a position, etc. of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter, a virtual diaphragm/compensation filter creation unit 18 , which creates a graphic image of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter on the display unit 43 , and an operation unit 27 (for example, a keyboard and a mouse, or the like), which allows an operator to input instructions.
  • a display unit 43 that displays the X-ray image obtained by the TV camera 23
  • a diaphragm, and compensation filter memory 14 that stores a position, etc. of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter
  • a virtual diaphragm/compensation filter creation unit 18 which creates a graphic image of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter on the display unit 43
  • an operation unit 27 for example,
  • the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 is explained in detail, referring to FIG. 2, which is a top view of the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 from the X-ray tube 11 .
  • the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 has a plurality of X-ray diaphragms 45 , 47 , 49 , and 51 . These diaphragms may be made of lead, for example, which limits the X-ray.
  • the X-ray diaphragm 45 and 49 symmetrically move, and the X-ray diaphragms 47 and 51 symmetrically move.
  • FIG. 2 is a top view of the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 from the X-ray tube 11 .
  • the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 has a plurality of X-ray diaphragms 45 , 47 , 49 , and 51 . These diaphragms may be made of lead, for example, which limits the
  • the X-ray diaphragms 47 and 51 are arranged at a back side and the X-ray diaphragms 45 and 49 are arranged at a near side.
  • An area (indicated as dotted lines) surrounded by the X-ray diaphragms shows an area where the X-ray irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 passes, and the X-ray diaphragms 45 , 47 , 49 , and 51 symmetrically and asymmetrically move to extend or narrow the pass area.
  • the irradiation area of the X-ray to the patient P may be controlled.
  • FIG. 3A shows a sectional view of the compensation filter unit 15 from the body axis of the patient P
  • FIG. 3B shows a top view from the X-ray tube 11
  • the compensation filter unit 15 includes a plurality of types of the compensation filters 15 a, 15 b, and 15 c, which are arranged along the direction of the X-ray irradiation (indicated as dotted lines).
  • the compensation filter 15 c is far from the X-ray tube 11
  • the compensation filter 15 a is near the X-ray tube 11 .
  • each compensation filter is made of, for example, acrylic or the like. Forms of the compensation filters 15 a through 15 c may be different from each other.
  • the compensation filter 15 b may have an elliptical form and the compensation filter 15 c may have a rectangular form.
  • the compensation filter 15 a is illustrated in the shape of a trapezium.
  • These compensation filters 15 a, 15 b, and 15 c move in the X and Y directions and rotates on a X-Y plate (the rotation angle is shown as ⁇ ).
  • One or more of the compensation filters move to interrupt and attenuate the X-ray.
  • FIG. 3A the case where the compensation filter 15 a interrupts the X-ray is shown.
  • FIG. 4 is a flow chart.
  • so-called bolus chase imaging is explained as one example.
  • the bolus chase imaging is that the C-arm slides along a longitudinal direction of the bed 17 without rotation, and a contrast agent injected into the patient P is imaged.
  • the operator (generally a doctor or a radiological technician) checks information (such as a patient name or other relevant information) about the patient P, the operator inputs suitable X-ray fluoroscopic terms (such as X-ray tube voltage, X-ray tube current, fluoroscopic time, or other appropriate parameters) for the patient P via the operation unit 27 , and the operator puts the patient P on the bed 17 .
  • information such as a patient name or other relevant information
  • suitable X-ray fluoroscopic terms such as X-ray tube voltage, X-ray tube current, fluoroscopic time, or other appropriate parameters
  • the X-ray tube current in the fluoroscopic imaging is lower than that of the main imaging, and is set up to an appropriate value by auto brightness control (ABC).
  • the system control unit 25 controls the X-ray tube 11 to irradiate the X-ray to the patient P on the bed 17 via the X-ray control unit 29 and the high voltage generating unit 31 .
  • the X-ray diaphragm control unit 33 controls the X-ray diaphragms 45 , 47 , 49 , and 51 of the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 so that the pass area of the X-ray is the maximum.
  • the compensation filters 15 a through 15 c of the compensation filter unit 15 are held at positions such that the X-ray is not attenuated.
  • the X-ray penetrates through the patient P, and the scattered X-ray is cut by the X-ray grid 4 .
  • the remaining X-ray is irradiated to the I.I. 19 .
  • the optical signal corresponding to the amount of the incident X-ray is generated, and after the optical signal is corrected by the optical unit 21 , the corrected optical signal is changed to the electric signal as the TV image signal by the TV camera 23 .
  • the TV image signal is changed to a digital signal by an A/D converter and the image processing performs on the digital signal.
  • the processed digital signal is converted to a TV image signal to be displayed on the display unit 43 as the X-ray fluoroscopic image.
  • the operator may move the C-arm from (for example) an abdomen to a lower leg of the patient P by the operation unit 27 and the supporting control unit 37 .
  • the X-ray continues to irradiate the X-ray to the patient P, and the fluoroscopic image from the abdomen to the lower leg of the patient P is displayed on the display unit 43 in a real time.
  • the X-ray fluoroscopic image is stored in the image memory 44 . A similar operation is performed in the main imaging.
  • Step 62 through Step 65 in FIG. 4 Setup (Step 62 through Step 65 in FIG. 4) of the X-ray diaphragm unit/compensation filter are explained.
  • the setup is performed, the X-ray is not irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 .
  • Step 62 for replaying the fluoroscopic image the fluoroscopic image data is read out from the image memory unit 44 to be displayed on the display unit 43 .
  • FIG. 5 shows an example displayed on the display unit 43 .
  • the fluoroscopic image replays in a center of a monitor as a circular image.
  • the virtual X-ray diaphragm and virtual compensation filter are created on the fluoroscopic image 72 by the virtual diaphragm/compensation filter creation unit 18 .
  • the virtual X-ray diaphragm is a graphic displayed on the display unit 43 , and one example is indicated by dotted lines 74 in FIG. 5.
  • the virtual compensation filter is a graphic displayed on the display unit 43 similarly, and one example is indicated by dotted lines 73 in FIG. 5.
  • a scale of the virtual X-ray diaphragm and virtual compensation filter correspond to a scale of the X-ray fluoroscopic image. When the X-ray fluoroscopic image is enlarged, the virtual X-ray diaphragm and virtual compensation filter are similarly enlarged.
  • the operator sets X and Y positions of the X-ray diaphragms.
  • the operator adjusts a size of the virtual X-ray diaphragm 74 on the monitor, by the operation unit 27 .
  • X and Y position data of the X-ray diaphragms is calculated, and the position data is stored in the diaphragm and compensation filter memory 14 with the position data of the supporting unit 16 .
  • Step 65 a position, an angle, and a sort of the compensation filter is set up.
  • the operator selects one virtual compensation filter among candidates shown as icons 71 on the monitor.
  • a virtual compensation filter in the center of the candidates is selected.
  • the selected virtual compensation filter is displayed near the fluoroscopic image 72 on the monitor.
  • the operator adjusts the X position of the virtual compensation filter 73 and also adjusts the angle of the virtual compensation filter 73 .
  • the type, position, and angle of the virtual compensation filter is stored in the diaphragm and compensation filter memory 14 with the position data of the supporting unit 16 .
  • the operation unit 27 is used for selecting or adjusting the type, position, and angle of the virtual compensation filter.
  • the operator sets the X-ray diaphragm and compensation filter on another replayed fluoroscopic image of a different position.
  • the operator sets the X-ray diaphragm and compensation filter on a whole imaging area (or only on a desired area).
  • the X-ray diaphragm and compensation filter may be set, and a table of data (as shown, for example, in FIG. 6) is stored in the diaphragm and compensation filter memory 14 .
  • the Y position of the supporting unit may be a position of the X-ray tube 11 which may be an absolute position which is not related to the bed 17 or a relative position to the bed 17 .
  • the Y position of the X-ray tube may be a position of the I.I. or the C-arm, etc.
  • the main imaging is performed to obtain the mask image and the contrast image used for the subtraction process.
  • the imaging for obtaining the mask image starts based on the instruction of the operator and is performed before the contrast agent is injected into the patient P.
  • the X-ray tube 11 and the I.I. 19 automatically move from the abdomen to the lower leg or from the lower leg to the abdomen.
  • the imaging for obtaining the contrast image starts.
  • the imaging starts immediately after the contrast agent is injected into the patient P, based on the instruction of the operator.
  • the X-ray tube 11 and the I.I. 19 move along the flow of the contrast agent at an arbitrary speed based on the instruction of the operator.
  • the mask image is aligned to the contrast image and the subtraction process is performed.
  • a trace of the contrast agent namely a blood vessel, may be emphasized.
  • Differences between the mask image and the contrast image include the following points, for example.
  • the mask image is obtained before the contrast agent is injected to the patient P, while the contrast image is obtained after the contrast agent is injected to the patient P.
  • the imaging for obtaining the mask image is automatically performed, while the imaging for obtaining the contrast image is performed at arbitrary speed to chase the flow of the contrast agent, and other operations are similar to each other. Additionally, the direction of the imaging for obtaining the mask image may be opposite to or the same as the direction of the imaging for obtaining the contrast image.
  • the imaging for obtaining the contrast image is explained below. An explanation of a similar operation for fluoroscopic imaging is omitted.
  • FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of operation for obtaining the contrast image.
  • Step 81 the Y position of the supporting unit 16 is detected by the system control unit 25 .
  • Step 82 the X and Y position of the X-ray diaphragm is searched in the system control unit 25 .
  • the first and second nearest data to the detected Y position is searched from the table shown in FIG. 6, and the X-ray diaphragm data corresponding to the first and second nearest data is specified.
  • Step 83 the position, angle and sort of the compensation filter are searched in the system control unit 25 .
  • the data of the compensation filter within a field of view of the I.I. 19 is specified based the detected Y position of the supporting unit 16 and a field of view data of the I.I. 19 , which is pre-stored.
  • Step 84 the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are controlled based on the specified data.
  • FIG. 8A shows the fluoroscopic image from the abdomen to the lower leg. In this case, four virtual X-ray diaphragms are set on the fluoroscopic image by the operator. If the detected position of the supporting unit 16 is the position near the abdomen in FIG. 8A, the data 74 a and 74 b are searched as the X-ray diaphragm data in Step 82 . In detail, as shown by solid lines of FIG.
  • the actual X-ray diaphragms 45 , 47 , 49 , and 51 are controlled as the virtual X-ray diaphragms 74 a and 74 b, and are connected smoothly.
  • the portions shown as the dotted lines of FIG. 8B indicate the virtual X-ray diaphragms 74 shown as the solid lines of FIG. 8A.
  • the X-ray diaphragm may be controlled as described above, the desired imaging area set by the operator receives adequate X-rays, while the X-ray is appropriately blocked from extraneous areas.
  • the four virtual X-ray diaphragms are overlapped from the abdomen to the lower leg as shown in FIG. 8A; however, the virtual X-ray diaphragm may be partially set.
  • the pass area of the X-ray between the X-ray diaphragms may be set as the maximum. That is, the X-ray diaphragm may not block the X-ray, if the virtual X-ray diaphragm is not set as well as the fluoroscopic imaging.
  • FIG. 9 shows the fluoroscopic image from the abdomen to the lower leg.
  • the non-limiting example where three virtual compensation filters 73 are set on the fluoroscopic image by the operator is shown in FIG. 9.
  • the specified data of the compensation filter in Step 83 is used for controlling the compensation filter as the virtual compensation filter 73 is set.
  • the compensation filter moves from the lower leg to the abdomen at the approximately same speed as the X-ray tube 11 .
  • the movement of the compensation filter may continue until the compensation filter is beyond the field of view of the I.I 19 .
  • the compensation filter is controlled to move in an opposite direction to movement direction of the X-ray tube 11 at the approximately same speed, the attenuation of the X-ray is minimized.
  • the operator After the main imaging, the operator performs an operative treatment on an affected area of the patient P, such as a closed blood vessel, after the operator confirms the affected area on the subtraction image obtained by the main imaging.
  • an affected area of the patient P such as a closed blood vessel
  • the operator inserts a catheter into the patient P.
  • the operator confirms a position of the catheter on the X-ray fluoroscopic image.
  • the main imaging is preformed on the affected area again.
  • the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter data used in the main imaging before the operative treatment may be used again.
  • the operator performs the main imaging after the operative treatment to confirm a result of the operative treatment.
  • the operative treatment may be performed immediately after the operative treatment or may be performed a few days after the operative treatment, for example.
  • the X-ray diagram or the compensation filter can be set at an appropriate position.
  • the X-ray irradiation to the patient may be stopped during setting the X-ray diagram or the compensation, and the amount of the X-ray irradiated to the patient can be reduced.
  • the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept.
  • the bed may move during the fluoroscopic or main imaging.
  • the X-ray diaphragm can be set in both of the X direction which is perpendicular to the body axis of the patient and the Y direction which is parallel to the body axis of the patient in the first embodiment, the X-ray diaphragm may be set in at least one direction.
  • the X-ray diaphragm data may be stored in only the Y direction of the X-ray diaphragm.
  • the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are controlled according to the position in the body axis direction (Y direction) of the C-arm in the first embodiment, the C-arm may be fixed in the Y direction and may rotate instead.
  • the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter may be controlled according to an angle of the rotation of the C-arm.
  • a 3-dimensional subtraction process (so-called a rotation DSA) may be applied.
  • the virtual X-ray diaphragm and the virtual compensation filter are set on the replayed fluoroscopic image to set the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter in the first embodiment
  • the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter may also be set on the fluoroscopic image displayed in a real time while the X-ray is irradiated to the patient.
  • the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are controlled according to the position of the X-ray tube, the X-ray diaphragm or the compensation filter can be set at an appropriate position. Therefore, the amount of the X-ray irradiated to the patient is reduced or a halation on the X-ray image may be restrained.

Abstract

An X-ray diagnosis apparatus is configured to control at least one of the X-ray diaphragm which restricts the irradiation range of the X-ray and the compensation filter which attenuates the amount of the X-ray based on at least one of the rotation position or the position parallel to the body axis of the X-ray source.

Description

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to an X-ray diagnosis apparatus and a method for creating an X-ray image. [0001]
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • A conventional X-ray diagnosis apparatus irradiates an X-ray from an X-ray tube to a patient, and detects the X-ray penetrated through the patient with an image intensifier (hereinafter referred to as I.I.), which changes the X-ray into a light and an imaging tube or a charge coupled device changes the light into an electronic signal or a flat panel detector (hereinafter called as a FPD) directly changes the X-ray into the electronic signal. Thus, an X-ray fluoroscopic image is obtained. The X-ray apparatus enables an operator to observe flow and movement of a contrast agent inside the patient on a display. Moreover, the fluoroscopic image is stored in a memory and used for various image processes, such as enlargement/contrast adjustment/space filter processes or minimum/maximum trace processes or subtraction process or adding process for removing a noise, and the like. [0002]
  • The subtraction process for obtaining a subtraction image of a part of the patient using the X-ray diagnosis apparatus is explained below. In order to perform the subtraction process, the fluoroscopic image, a mask image, and a contrast image are obtained. The fluoroscopic image is used for setting a position of an X-ray diaphragm and a compensation filter. The mask image and the contrast image are basic images to create the subtraction image. Hereinafter, an imaging for obtaining the fluoroscopic image is called a fluoroscopic imaging, and an imaging for obtaining a mask image and a contrast image is called a main imaging. In the fluoroscopic imaging, the operator sets X-ray fluoroscopic terms (X-ray tube voltage, X-ray tube current, fluoroscopic time, etc.), considering patient information, such as a patient age, sex, the portion of the body being imaged and other factors (such as, but not limited to, patient condition, pregnancy status, medical conditions, allergy to the contrast agent, specific needed nursing care). The X-ray is irradiated to the patient based on the fluoroscopic factors, and the fluoroscopic image is displayed on the display. The operator adjusts a position of a supporting unit for supporting the X-ray tube and the I.I., in order to position an imaging area at an appropriate part of the patient. The operator sets positions of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter, observing the fluoroscopic image. [0003]
  • The main imaging starts after the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are set. In the main imaging, the mask image and the contrast image are obtained in order. The mask image is aligned to the contrast image, and the subtraction process between these images is performed. The subtraction image is displayed on the display in a real time. [0004]
  • In the conventional X-ray diagnosis apparatus, the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are fixed at such a position that the imaging area is adequate during the main imaging, such as during a bolus chase imaging where the X-ray and the I.I. automatically move. That is, wherever the X-ray tube and the I.I. move within the imaging area, the X-ray irradiated to the patient is not blocked or attenuated. However, since the X-ray diaphragm is fixed during the main imaging, the irradiation range of the X-ray is wide, the amount of the X-ray irradiated to the patient increases, and the influence of scattered X-ray appears. Moreover, since the compensation filter is fixed during the main imaging, X-ray halation partially remains. However, it is difficult to manually adjust the position of the X-ray diaphragm or the compensation filter according to a contour of the patient during the main imaging where the X-ray tube and the I.I. automatically move. [0005]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention intends to solve the above-mentioned problems. One aspect of the present invention is an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a diaphragm configured to restrict an irradiation range of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the bed, and a controller configured to control the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction. [0006]
  • Another aspect of the present invention is an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a diaphragm configured to restrict irradiation range of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the bed, and a controller configured to control the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source. [0007]
  • Another aspect of the present invention is an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the bed, and a controller configured to control the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction. [0008]
  • Another aspect of the present invention is an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the bed, and a controller configured to control the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray. [0009]
  • Another aspect of the present invention is an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object, a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray, a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object, a bed configured to support the object, a mechanism configured to move a position of the X-ray source to parallel to the bed, and a controller configured to control the compensation filter to move in an opposite direction to a direction of movement of the X-ray source at the same speed as the movement of the X-ray source such that the compensation filter relatively stops to the bed. [0010]
  • Another aspect of the present invention is a method for obtaining an X-ray image including irradiating an X-ray to an object, restricting an irradiation range of the X-ray, detecting the X-ray penetrated through the object, moving a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the bed, and controlling the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction.[0011]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to like parts. In the drawings: [0012]
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray diagnosis apparatus in a first embodiment; [0013]
  • FIG. 2 is a top view of an X-ray diaphragm unit of the X-ray diagnosis apparatus in the first embodiment; [0014]
  • FIG. 3A is a sectional view of a compensation filter unit; [0015]
  • FIG. 3B is a top view of the compensation filter; [0016]
  • FIG. 4 is a flow chart for setting an X-ray diaphragm and a compensation filter in the first embodiment; [0017]
  • FIG. 5 is an illustration of an example displayed on a display unit in the first embodiment; [0018]
  • FIG. 6 is a table stored in a diaphragm and compensation filter memory in the first embodiment; [0019]
  • FIG.[0020] 7 is a flow chart for obtaining a contrast image in the first embodiment;
  • FIG.8A is an illustration for explaining an operation of the X-ray diaphragm in the first embodiment; [0021]
  • FIG.8B is an illustration for explaining an X-ray image in the first embodiment; and [0022]
  • FIG. 9 is an illustration for explaining an operation of the compensation filter.[0023]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • A first embodiment of the present invention is explained referring to the figures. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray diagnosis apparatus. The X direction is approximately parallel to a width direction of a patient, the Y direction is approximately parallel to a body axis of the patient, and the Z direction is approximately parallel to a thickness direction of the patient. As shown in FIG. 1, an X-ray diagnosis apparatus includes a supporting [0024] unit 16 and a main control unit 12. The supporting unit 16 includes a C-arm and a bed 17. An X-ray tube 11 that irradiates an X-ray is mounted on one side of the C arm, and an X-ray diaphragm unit 13 that blocks the X-ray irradiated to an unnecessary area is provided on a patient P side of the X-ray tube 11. A compensation filter unit 15 that attenuates the X-ray to restrain halation is also provided on the patient P side of the X-ray tube 11. On the opposite side of the C-arm to the bed 17, an X-ray grid 4, which cuts a scattering X-ray penetrated through the patient P; an I.I.19, which changes the remaining X-ray to an optical image; an optical unit 21, which corrects a size of the optical image; and a TV camera (or CCD, for example) 23, which changes the optical image to a TV image signal, are mounted.
  • The [0025] main control unit 12 includes a system control unit 25; an X-ray control unit 29, which controls a high voltage generating unit 31 to generate high voltage impressed to the X-ray tube 11; an X-ray diaphragm control unit 33, which controls the degree (X, Y direction) of opening between X-ray diaphragms; and a compensation filter control unit 35, which controls a position (X direction); a rotation angle 4, and a type of a compensation filter in the compensation filter unit 15. Moreover, the main control unit 12 includes a supporting control unit 37 that controls a position (Y direction) of the C-arm to the bed 17, an I.I. control unit 39 that controls the I.I. 19, a camera control unit 41 that controls the TV camera 23, an image memory 44 that stores an X-ray image obtained by the TV camera 23. Furthermore, the main control unit 12 includes a display unit 43 that displays the X-ray image obtained by the TV camera 23, a diaphragm, and compensation filter memory 14 that stores a position, etc. of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter, a virtual diaphragm/compensation filter creation unit 18, which creates a graphic image of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter on the display unit 43, and an operation unit 27 (for example, a keyboard and a mouse, or the like), which allows an operator to input instructions.
  • The [0026] X-ray diaphragm unit 13 is explained in detail, referring to FIG. 2, which is a top view of the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 from the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray diaphragm unit 13 has a plurality of X-ray diaphragms 45, 47, 49, and 51. These diaphragms may be made of lead, for example, which limits the X-ray. The X-ray diaphragm 45 and 49 symmetrically move, and the X-ray diaphragms 47 and 51 symmetrically move. In FIG. 2, the X-ray diaphragms 47 and 51 are arranged at a back side and the X-ray diaphragms 45 and 49 are arranged at a near side. An area (indicated as dotted lines) surrounded by the X-ray diaphragms shows an area where the X-ray irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 passes, and the X-ray diaphragms 45, 47, 49, and 51 symmetrically and asymmetrically move to extend or narrow the pass area. Thus, the irradiation area of the X-ray to the patient P may be controlled.
  • With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the [0027] compensation filter unit 15 is explained in detail. The non-limiting illustration of FIG. 3A shows a sectional view of the compensation filter unit 15 from the body axis of the patient P, and FIG. 3B shows a top view from the X-ray tube 11. The compensation filter unit 15 includes a plurality of types of the compensation filters 15 a, 15 b, and 15 c, which are arranged along the direction of the X-ray irradiation (indicated as dotted lines). The compensation filter 15 c is far from the X-ray tube 11, and the compensation filter 15 a is near the X-ray tube 11. Generally, each compensation filter is made of, for example, acrylic or the like. Forms of the compensation filters 15 a through 15 c may be different from each other.
  • For example, the [0028] compensation filter 15 b may have an elliptical form and the compensation filter 15 c may have a rectangular form. In the non-limiting illustration of FIG. 3B, the compensation filter 15 a is illustrated in the shape of a trapezium. These compensation filters 15 a, 15 b, and 15 c move in the X and Y directions and rotates on a X-Y plate (the rotation angle is shown as φ). One or more of the compensation filters move to interrupt and attenuate the X-ray. In FIG. 3A, the case where the compensation filter 15 a interrupts the X-ray is shown.
  • Next, an operation of the X-ray diagnosis apparatus is explained in the order of the fluoroscopic imaging, a setup of the X-ray diaphragm/compensation filter, and the main imaging. [0029]
  • The fluoroscopic imaging and the setup of the X-ray diaphragm/compensation filter is explained with reference to the non-limiting illustration of FIG. 4, which is a flow chart. In the first embodiment, so-called bolus chase imaging is explained as one example. The bolus chase imaging is that the C-arm slides along a longitudinal direction of the [0030] bed 17 without rotation, and a contrast agent injected into the patient P is imaged. In Step 61 of FIG. 4 showing the fluoroscopic imaging, the operator (generally a doctor or a radiological technician) checks information (such as a patient name or other relevant information) about the patient P, the operator inputs suitable X-ray fluoroscopic terms (such as X-ray tube voltage, X-ray tube current, fluoroscopic time, or other appropriate parameters) for the patient P via the operation unit 27, and the operator puts the patient P on the bed 17.
  • In general, the X-ray tube current in the fluoroscopic imaging is lower than that of the main imaging, and is set up to an appropriate value by auto brightness control (ABC). The [0031] system control unit 25 controls the X-ray tube 11 to irradiate the X-ray to the patient P on the bed 17 via the X-ray control unit 29 and the high voltage generating unit 31. At that time, the X-ray diaphragm control unit 33 controls the X-ray diaphragms 45, 47, 49, and 51 of the X-ray diaphragm unit 13 so that the pass area of the X-ray is the maximum. Similarly, the compensation filters 15 a through 15 c of the compensation filter unit 15 are held at positions such that the X-ray is not attenuated.
  • The X-ray penetrates through the patient P, and the scattered X-ray is cut by the X-ray grid [0032] 4. The remaining X-ray is irradiated to the I.I.19. In the I.I. 19, the optical signal corresponding to the amount of the incident X-ray is generated, and after the optical signal is corrected by the optical unit 21, the corrected optical signal is changed to the electric signal as the TV image signal by the TV camera 23. The TV image signal is changed to a digital signal by an A/D converter and the image processing performs on the digital signal. The processed digital signal is converted to a TV image signal to be displayed on the display unit 43 as the X-ray fluoroscopic image. Observing the X-ray fluoroscopic image on the display unit 43, the operator may move the C-arm from (for example) an abdomen to a lower leg of the patient P by the operation unit 27 and the supporting control unit 37. At that time, the X-ray continues to irradiate the X-ray to the patient P, and the fluoroscopic image from the abdomen to the lower leg of the patient P is displayed on the display unit 43 in a real time. The X-ray fluoroscopic image is stored in the image memory 44. A similar operation is performed in the main imaging.
  • Setup ([0033] Step 62 through Step 65 in FIG. 4) of the X-ray diaphragm unit/compensation filter are explained. When the setup is performed, the X-ray is not irradiated from the X-ray tube 11. In Step 62 for replaying the fluoroscopic image, the fluoroscopic image data is read out from the image memory unit 44 to be displayed on the display unit 43.
  • FIG. 5 shows an example displayed on the [0034] display unit 43. The fluoroscopic image replays in a center of a monitor as a circular image. In Step 63, the virtual X-ray diaphragm and virtual compensation filter are created on the fluoroscopic image 72 by the virtual diaphragm/compensation filter creation unit 18. The virtual X-ray diaphragm is a graphic displayed on the display unit 43, and one example is indicated by dotted lines 74 in FIG. 5. The virtual compensation filter is a graphic displayed on the display unit 43 similarly, and one example is indicated by dotted lines 73 in FIG. 5. A scale of the virtual X-ray diaphragm and virtual compensation filter correspond to a scale of the X-ray fluoroscopic image. When the X-ray fluoroscopic image is enlarged, the virtual X-ray diaphragm and virtual compensation filter are similarly enlarged. In Step 64, the operator sets X and Y positions of the X-ray diaphragms.
  • In detail, the operator adjusts a size of the virtual X-ray diaphragm [0035] 74 on the monitor, by the operation unit 27. According to the size of the adjusted virtual X-ray diaphragm 74, X and Y position data of the X-ray diaphragms is calculated, and the position data is stored in the diaphragm and compensation filter memory 14 with the position data of the supporting unit 16. In Step 65, a position, an angle, and a sort of the compensation filter is set up. In detail, the operator selects one virtual compensation filter among candidates shown as icons 71 on the monitor.
  • The case where a virtual compensation filter in the center of the candidates is selected is explained below. The selected virtual compensation filter is displayed near the [0036] fluoroscopic image 72 on the monitor. The operator adjusts the X position of the virtual compensation filter 73 and also adjusts the angle of the virtual compensation filter 73. The type, position, and angle of the virtual compensation filter is stored in the diaphragm and compensation filter memory 14 with the position data of the supporting unit 16. Similarly, the operation unit 27 is used for selecting or adjusting the type, position, and angle of the virtual compensation filter.
  • After the setup is completed, the operator sets the X-ray diaphragm and compensation filter on another replayed fluoroscopic image of a different position. The operator sets the X-ray diaphragm and compensation filter on a whole imaging area (or only on a desired area). Thus, the X-ray diaphragm and compensation filter may be set, and a table of data (as shown, for example, in FIG. 6) is stored in the diaphragm and [0037] compensation filter memory 14. The Y position of the supporting unit may be a position of the X-ray tube 11 which may be an absolute position which is not related to the bed 17 or a relative position to the bed 17. The Y position of the X-ray tube may be a position of the I.I. or the C-arm, etc.
  • An operation of the main imaging is explained below. As described above, the main imaging is performed to obtain the mask image and the contrast image used for the subtraction process. The imaging for obtaining the mask image starts based on the instruction of the operator and is performed before the contrast agent is injected into the patient P. The [0038] X-ray tube 11 and the I.I. 19 automatically move from the abdomen to the lower leg or from the lower leg to the abdomen. After the mask image is obtained, the imaging for obtaining the contrast image starts. The imaging starts immediately after the contrast agent is injected into the patient P, based on the instruction of the operator. In the imaging for obtaining the contrast image, the X-ray tube 11 and the I.I. 19 move along the flow of the contrast agent at an arbitrary speed based on the instruction of the operator. The mask image is aligned to the contrast image and the subtraction process is performed. A trace of the contrast agent, namely a blood vessel, may be emphasized.
  • Differences between the mask image and the contrast image include the following points, for example. The mask image is obtained before the contrast agent is injected to the patient P, while the contrast image is obtained after the contrast agent is injected to the patient P. The imaging for obtaining the mask image is automatically performed, while the imaging for obtaining the contrast image is performed at arbitrary speed to chase the flow of the contrast agent, and other operations are similar to each other. Additionally, the direction of the imaging for obtaining the mask image may be opposite to or the same as the direction of the imaging for obtaining the contrast image. The imaging for obtaining the contrast image is explained below. An explanation of a similar operation for fluoroscopic imaging is omitted. [0039]
  • FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of operation for obtaining the contrast image. In [0040] Step 81, the Y position of the supporting unit 16 is detected by the system control unit 25. In Step 82, the X and Y position of the X-ray diaphragm is searched in the system control unit 25. In detail, the first and second nearest data to the detected Y position is searched from the table shown in FIG. 6, and the X-ray diaphragm data corresponding to the first and second nearest data is specified.
  • In [0041] Step 83, the position, angle and sort of the compensation filter are searched in the system control unit 25. In detail, the data of the compensation filter within a field of view of the I.I. 19 is specified based the detected Y position of the supporting unit 16 and a field of view data of the I.I. 19, which is pre-stored. In Step 84, the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are controlled based on the specified data.
  • The control of the X-ray diaphragm is explained with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B. The controls of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter may be independently performed simultaneously. FIG. 8A shows the fluoroscopic image from the abdomen to the lower leg. In this case, four virtual X-ray diaphragms are set on the fluoroscopic image by the operator. If the detected position of the supporting [0042] unit 16 is the position near the abdomen in FIG. 8A, the data 74 a and 74 b are searched as the X-ray diaphragm data in Step 82. In detail, as shown by solid lines of FIG. 8B, the actual X-ray diaphragms 45, 47, 49, and 51 are controlled as the virtual X-ray diaphragms 74 a and 74 b, and are connected smoothly. The portions shown as the dotted lines of FIG. 8B indicate the virtual X-ray diaphragms 74 shown as the solid lines of FIG. 8A.
  • Since the X-ray diaphragm may be controlled as described above, the desired imaging area set by the operator receives adequate X-rays, while the X-ray is appropriately blocked from extraneous areas. In the above explanation, the four virtual X-ray diaphragms are overlapped from the abdomen to the lower leg as shown in FIG. 8A; however, the virtual X-ray diaphragm may be partially set. Where the virtual X-ray diaphragm is not set, the pass area of the X-ray between the X-ray diaphragms may be set as the maximum. That is, the X-ray diaphragm may not block the X-ray, if the virtual X-ray diaphragm is not set as well as the fluoroscopic imaging. [0043]
  • The control of the compensation filter is explained with reference to FIG. 9, which shows the fluoroscopic image from the abdomen to the lower leg. The non-limiting example where three virtual compensation filters [0044] 73 are set on the fluoroscopic image by the operator is shown in FIG. 9. The specified data of the compensation filter in Step 83 is used for controlling the compensation filter as the virtual compensation filter 73 is set. When the X-ray tube 11 moves to the lower leg from the abdomen, the compensation filter moves from the lower leg to the abdomen at the approximately same speed as the X-ray tube 11. The movement of the compensation filter may continue until the compensation filter is beyond the field of view of the I.I 19. Thus, since the compensation filter is controlled to move in an opposite direction to movement direction of the X-ray tube 11 at the approximately same speed, the attenuation of the X-ray is minimized.
  • After the main imaging, the operator performs an operative treatment on an affected area of the patient P, such as a closed blood vessel, after the operator confirms the affected area on the subtraction image obtained by the main imaging. In detail, while the X-ray is irradiated to the patient and the I.I. detects the X-ray to create the fluoroscopic image again, the operator inserts a catheter into the patient P. During the insertion of the catheter, the operator confirms a position of the catheter on the X-ray fluoroscopic image. [0045]
  • After the operative treatment is completed, the main imaging is preformed on the affected area again. In the main imaging after the operative treatment, the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter data used in the main imaging before the operative treatment may be used again. Thus, the operator performs the main imaging after the operative treatment to confirm a result of the operative treatment. The operative treatment may be performed immediately after the operative treatment or may be performed a few days after the operative treatment, for example. [0046]
  • In the first embodiment, since at least one of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter is controlled on the fluoroscopic image according to the position of the X-ray tube, the X-ray diagram or the compensation filter can be set at an appropriate position. In addition, since the virtual X-ray diagram or the virtual compensation filter is used, the X-ray irradiation to the patient may be stopped during setting the X-ray diagram or the compensation, and the amount of the X-ray irradiated to the patient can be reduced. [0047]
  • The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept. For example, although the X-ray tube and the I.I. move to the bed which is fixed in the first embodiment, the bed may move during the fluoroscopic or main imaging. However, it is more desirable to move the X-ray tube and the I.I. than to move the bed, since the contrast agent may move unusually as a result of the movement of the bed. Moreover, although the X-ray diaphragm can be set in both of the X direction which is perpendicular to the body axis of the patient and the Y direction which is parallel to the body axis of the patient in the first embodiment, the X-ray diaphragm may be set in at least one direction. For example, the X-ray diaphragm data may be stored in only the Y direction of the X-ray diaphragm. Furthermore, although the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter are controlled according to the position in the body axis direction (Y direction) of the C-arm in the first embodiment, the C-arm may be fixed in the Y direction and may rotate instead. The X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter may be controlled according to an angle of the rotation of the C-arm. Thus, a 3-dimensional subtraction process (so-called a rotation DSA) may be applied. [0048]
  • Although the virtual X-ray diaphragm and the virtual compensation filter are set on the replayed fluoroscopic image to set the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter in the first embodiment, the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter may also be set on the fluoroscopic image displayed in a real time while the X-ray is irradiated to the patient. [0049]
  • As described above, since at least one of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensation filter is controlled according to the position of the X-ray tube, the X-ray diaphragm or the compensation filter can be set at an appropriate position. Therefore, the amount of the X-ray irradiated to the patient is reduced or a halation on the X-ray image may be restrained. [0050]

Claims (31)

What is claimed is:
1. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a diaphragm configured to restrict an irradiation range of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a movement apparatus configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a first direction along the object; and
a controller configured to control the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the first direction.
2. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the movement apparatus is configured to move the position of the X-ray source in a longitudinal direction of the object.
3. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller comprises:
a memory configured to store data of the irradiation range corresponding to the position of the X-ray source; and
a main controller configured to read the data from the memory based on the position of the X-ray.
4. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the memory is configured to store the data of the irradiation range corresponding to a plurality of positions of the X-ray source.
5. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an operation unit configured to set the irradiation range on an X-ray fluoroscopic image.
6. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the movement apparatus is configured to move the position of the X-ray source along a flow direction of a contrast agent injected into the object, at a desired speed.
7. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a bed on which the object is positioned.
8. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a diaphragm configured to restrict an irradiation range of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a rotation apparatus configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the bed; and
a controller configured to control the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source.
9. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the controller comprises:
a memory configured to store data of the irradiation range corresponding to the position of the X-ray source; and
a main controller configured to read the data from the memory based on the position of the X-ray.
10. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the memory is configured to store the data of the irradiation range corresponding to a plurality of positions of the X-ray source.
11. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising an operation unit configured to set the irradiation range on an X-ray fluoroscopic image when the X-ray stops being irradiated.
12. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising a bed on which the object is positioned.
13. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a movement apparatus configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a direction along the object; and
a controller configured to control the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray source.
14. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the movement apparatus moves the position of the X-ray source in a longitudinal direction of the object.
15. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the controller comprises:
a memory configured to store data of an amount of the X-ray corresponding to the position of the X-ray source; and
a main controller configured to read the data from the memory based on the position of the X-ray.
16. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the memory is configured to store the data of the amount of the X-ray corresponding to a plurality of the positions of the X-ray source.
17. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising an operation unit configured to set the amount of the X-ray on an X-ray fluoroscopic image.
18. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the movement apparatus is configured to move the position of the X-ray source along a flow direction of a contrast agent injected into the object at a desired speed.
19. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a bed on which the object is positioned.
20. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a rotation apparatus configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the object; and
a controller configured to control the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray.
21. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the controller comprises:
a memory configured to store data of an amount of the X-ray corresponding to the position of the X-ray source; and
a main controller configured to read the data from the memory based on the position of the X-ray.
22. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the memory is configured to store the data of the amount of the X-ray corresponding to a plurality of positions of the X-ray source.
23. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 20, further comprising an operation unit configured to set the amount of the X-ray on an X-ray fluoroscopic image.
24. The X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to claim 20, further comprising a bed on which the object is positioned.
25. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a movement apparatus configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a first direction parallel to the object; and
a controller configured to control the compensation filter to move in a second direction, opposite to the direction of movement of the X-ray source, at a same speed as the movement of the X-ray source.
26. A method for obtaining an X-ray image, comprising:
irradiating an X-ray to an object;
restricting an irradiation range of the X-ray;
detecting the X-ray penetrated through the object;
moving a position of the X-ray source in a direction taken along the object; and
controlling a diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the direction.
27. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a diaphragm configured to restrict an irradiation range of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a movement apparatus configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a first direction along the object; and
means for controlling the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source in the first direction.
28. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a diaphragm configured to restrict an irradiation range of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a rotation apparatus configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the bed; and
means for controlling the diaphragm based on the position of the X-ray source.
29. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a movement apparatus configured to move a position of the X-ray source in a direction along the object; and
means for controlling the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray source.
30. An X-ray diagnosis apparatus, comprising:
an X-ray source configured to irradiate an X-ray to an object;
a compensation filter configured to attenuate an amount of the X-ray;
a detector configured to detect the X-ray penetrated through the object;
a rotation apparatus configured to rotate a position of the X-ray source around the object; and
means for controlling the compensation filter based on the position of the X-ray.
31. A computer program product storing instructions for execution on a computer system, which when executed by the computer system, causes the computer system to perform the method recited in claim 26.
US10/609,646 2002-07-08 2003-07-01 X-ray diagnosis apparatus Abandoned US20040066885A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/539,544 US7336768B2 (en) 2002-07-08 2006-10-06 X-ray diagnosis apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2002-198148 2002-07-08
JP2002198148 2002-07-08

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/539,544 Continuation US7336768B2 (en) 2002-07-08 2006-10-06 X-ray diagnosis apparatus

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20040066885A1 true US20040066885A1 (en) 2004-04-08

Family

ID=30437192

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/609,646 Abandoned US20040066885A1 (en) 2002-07-08 2003-07-01 X-ray diagnosis apparatus
US11/539,544 Expired - Lifetime US7336768B2 (en) 2002-07-08 2006-10-06 X-ray diagnosis apparatus

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/539,544 Expired - Lifetime US7336768B2 (en) 2002-07-08 2006-10-06 X-ray diagnosis apparatus

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (2) US20040066885A1 (en)
CN (1) CN1315434C (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050201521A1 (en) * 2004-03-11 2005-09-15 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Diaphragm unit for an x-ray device
US20140169525A1 (en) * 2012-09-13 2014-06-19 Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation X-ray diagnostic apparatus
EP3053523A1 (en) * 2015-02-02 2016-08-10 PaloDEx Group Oy System and method of small field of view x-ray imaging
US10441239B2 (en) * 2015-04-09 2019-10-15 Canon Medical Systems Corporation X-ray diagnostic apparatus, and method of adjusting irradiation range of X-ray diagnostic apparatus

Families Citing this family (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7963695B2 (en) 2002-07-23 2011-06-21 Rapiscan Systems, Inc. Rotatable boom cargo scanning system
US7634308B2 (en) * 2002-12-17 2009-12-15 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Method and system for X-ray diagnosis of object in which X-ray contrast agent is injected
US20070025521A1 (en) * 2005-07-14 2007-02-01 Tommi Jokiniemi Method and equipment arrangement for presenting information in radiology
CN100473343C (en) * 2005-11-23 2009-04-01 北京东方逸腾数码医疗设备技术有限公司 Virtual control method of digital light concentrator
US7519161B2 (en) * 2007-03-16 2009-04-14 Science Applications International Corporation System and method for normalization and calibration of an imaging system using a variable thickness filter
FI122093B (en) * 2007-03-19 2011-08-31 Planmeca Oy Delimitation of an X-ray cone in connection with dental imaging
CN101451966A (en) * 2007-12-07 2009-06-10 Ge医疗系统环球技术有限公司 X-ray image forming apparatus and X-ray control method
DE102008049708B4 (en) * 2008-09-30 2011-03-17 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Aperture and diaphragm device for the targeted influence of X-radiation
JP2011019633A (en) * 2009-07-14 2011-02-03 Toshiba Corp X-ray diagnostic apparatus and control program for reducing exposure dose
US8314394B1 (en) 2009-11-04 2012-11-20 Science Applications International Corporation System and method for three-dimensional imaging using scattering from annihilation coincidence photons
GB201001738D0 (en) * 2010-02-03 2010-03-24 Rapiscan Lab Inc Scanning systems
US8971493B2 (en) 2010-09-08 2015-03-03 Siemens Medical Solutions Usa, Inc. System for image scanning and acquisition with low-dose radiation
US9224573B2 (en) 2011-06-09 2015-12-29 Rapiscan Systems, Inc. System and method for X-ray source weight reduction
US9218933B2 (en) 2011-06-09 2015-12-22 Rapidscan Systems, Inc. Low-dose radiographic imaging system
JP6021319B2 (en) * 2011-12-02 2016-11-09 東芝メディカルシステムズ株式会社 X-ray diagnostic equipment
KR101373006B1 (en) * 2011-12-27 2014-03-13 삼성전자주식회사 The method and apparatus for adjusting a range of x-ray emission
US9274065B2 (en) 2012-02-08 2016-03-01 Rapiscan Systems, Inc. High-speed security inspection system
DE102012218890A1 (en) * 2012-10-17 2014-04-17 Dr. Johannes Heidenhain Gmbh Absolute position measuring device
US9370330B2 (en) 2013-02-08 2016-06-21 Siemens Medical Solutions Usa, Inc. Radiation field and dose control
DE102014202330B3 (en) * 2014-02-10 2015-06-03 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Single Source DualEnergy with two filters for X-ray spectrum differentiation on radiator apertures with slotted plate
US10634797B2 (en) 2017-07-07 2020-04-28 International Business Machines Corporation Real time X-ray dosimeter using diodes with variable thickness degrader

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4776603A (en) * 1986-07-24 1988-10-11 Watts Hampton H Two wheel hand truck
US5377252A (en) * 1993-02-09 1994-12-27 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Computer tomography apparatus with beam thickness adjustment
US5630414A (en) * 1994-04-18 1997-05-20 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray diagnostics installation for subtraction angiography
US6173033B1 (en) * 1997-05-22 2001-01-09 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray computed tomography apparatus for producing X-ray shadowgraphs
US6445761B1 (en) * 1997-03-12 2002-09-03 Hitachi Medical Corporation X-ray computerized tomograph including collimator that restricts irradiation range of X-ray fan beam
US6480570B1 (en) * 1994-03-11 2002-11-12 Hitachi Medical Corporation X-ray image display apparatus
US6618466B1 (en) * 2002-02-21 2003-09-09 University Of Rochester Apparatus and method for x-ray scatter reduction and correction for fan beam CT and cone beam volume CT

Family Cites Families (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0142841A3 (en) * 1983-11-18 1987-04-29 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Aperture device of radiation diagnostic apparatus
NL8700781A (en) * 1987-04-02 1988-11-01 Optische Ind De Oude Delft Nv METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTRAST HARMONIZATION OF A ROENTGEN IMAGE.
CN1025715C (en) * 1988-10-27 1994-08-24 株式会社岛津制作所 X-ray photographic apparatus
US5369678A (en) * 1992-06-29 1994-11-29 Siemens Corporate Research, Inc. Method for tracking a catheter probe during a fluoroscopic procedure
US5889834A (en) * 1995-09-28 1999-03-30 Brainlab Med. Computersysteme Gmbh Blade collimator for radiation therapy
US5673300A (en) * 1996-06-11 1997-09-30 Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation Method of registering a radiation treatment plan to a patient
JPH11109249A (en) * 1997-09-29 1999-04-23 Shimadzu Corp Infrared microscope
FR2770677B1 (en) * 1997-11-03 1999-12-24 Ge Medical Syst Sa X-RAY BEAM CONFORMATION FILTER WITH VARIABLE SURFACE AND X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS INCORPORATING SUCH A FILTER
DE59912574D1 (en) * 1998-10-05 2006-02-02 Philips Intellectual Property X-ray equipment
JP3322227B2 (en) * 1998-12-10 2002-09-09 株式会社島津製作所 Infrared microscope
JP4515557B2 (en) 1999-06-15 2010-08-04 株式会社東芝 X-ray television apparatus
DE19950794A1 (en) * 1999-10-21 2001-06-13 Siemens Ag Radiological device e.g. for radiological imaging for computer tomography
CN1133473C (en) * 2000-09-25 2004-01-07 王乔生 Cobalt-60 multi-lamination non-coplanar spiral lamination strength adjustable radiation therapy system

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4776603A (en) * 1986-07-24 1988-10-11 Watts Hampton H Two wheel hand truck
US5377252A (en) * 1993-02-09 1994-12-27 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Computer tomography apparatus with beam thickness adjustment
US6480570B1 (en) * 1994-03-11 2002-11-12 Hitachi Medical Corporation X-ray image display apparatus
US5630414A (en) * 1994-04-18 1997-05-20 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray diagnostics installation for subtraction angiography
US6445761B1 (en) * 1997-03-12 2002-09-03 Hitachi Medical Corporation X-ray computerized tomograph including collimator that restricts irradiation range of X-ray fan beam
US6173033B1 (en) * 1997-05-22 2001-01-09 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray computed tomography apparatus for producing X-ray shadowgraphs
US6618466B1 (en) * 2002-02-21 2003-09-09 University Of Rochester Apparatus and method for x-ray scatter reduction and correction for fan beam CT and cone beam volume CT

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050201521A1 (en) * 2004-03-11 2005-09-15 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Diaphragm unit for an x-ray device
US7248674B2 (en) * 2004-03-11 2007-07-24 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Diaphragm unit for an x-ray device
US20140169525A1 (en) * 2012-09-13 2014-06-19 Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation X-ray diagnostic apparatus
US9888899B2 (en) * 2012-09-13 2018-02-13 Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation X-ray diagnostic apparatus
EP3053523A1 (en) * 2015-02-02 2016-08-10 PaloDEx Group Oy System and method of small field of view x-ray imaging
US9936926B2 (en) 2015-02-02 2018-04-10 Palodex Group Oy System and method of small field of view X-ray imaging
US10695014B2 (en) 2015-02-02 2020-06-30 Palodex Group Oy System and method of small field of view x-ray imaging
US10441239B2 (en) * 2015-04-09 2019-10-15 Canon Medical Systems Corporation X-ray diagnostic apparatus, and method of adjusting irradiation range of X-ray diagnostic apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN1471897A (en) 2004-02-04
US20070211851A1 (en) 2007-09-13
US7336768B2 (en) 2008-02-26
CN1315434C (en) 2007-05-16

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7336768B2 (en) X-ray diagnosis apparatus
WO2010101208A1 (en) X-ray ct device and tomography method
US9888899B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic apparatus
US10441239B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic apparatus, and method of adjusting irradiation range of X-ray diagnostic apparatus
JP2007061426A (en) X-ray ct apparatus and method for roentgenography
JP5597650B2 (en) Medical display system for displaying X-ray images
JP2006288554A (en) X-ray diagnostic apparatus and data generating method
US7029177B2 (en) X-ray diagnosis apparatus
WO2013175712A1 (en) X-ray diagnostic device and x-ray diagnostic support method
JP2023139295A (en) X-ray imaging apparatus and x-ray imaging method
US8475043B2 (en) Radiation imaging apparatus and processing method therefor
JP2004089699A (en) X-ray diagnostic apparatus and collecting method of x-ray images
US11464474B2 (en) Medical image processing apparatus, X-ray diagnostic apparatus, and medical image processing method
US7460642B2 (en) Method for generating an x-ray image sequence
US10973473B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic apparatus
JP6553123B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic device
JP2007244484A (en) X-ray diagnostic equipment
JP7267727B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic equipment
US20220160320A1 (en) X-ray diagnostic apparatus and control method thereof
JP7250563B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic device and control program
JP7160529B2 (en) MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, X-RAY DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS, AND MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD
JP7199958B2 (en) Angio CT device
JP7098319B2 (en) X-ray diagnostic device
JP7246952B2 (en) Medical information processing device, X-ray diagnostic device and program
WO2013175977A1 (en) Diagnostic x-ray apparatus

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA, JAPAN

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:OGAWA, KENICHI;REEL/FRAME:014631/0553

Effective date: 20030626

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION