JP6538136B2 - X-ray CT system, X-ray CT system - Google Patents

Description

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

  An X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus is an apparatus that scans an object using X-rays and processes acquired data with a computer to image the inside of the object.

  Specifically, the X-ray CT apparatus irradiates the subject with X-rays a plurality of times from different directions, detects X-rays transmitted through the subject by the X-ray detector, and detects a plurality of detection data. collect. The collected detection data is A / D converted by the data collection unit and then transmitted to the console device. The console apparatus performs preprocessing and the like on the detection data to create projection data. Then, the console device performs reconstruction processing based on the projection data, and creates volume data based on tomographic image data or a plurality of tomographic image data.

  A series of operations (X-ray scan, reconstruction processing, etc.) by the X-ray CT apparatus are performed based on an operation plan called an expert plan. The expert plan as the operation plan is information including scan conditions, reconstruction processing conditions, and the like. The scan conditions refer to conditions under which an X-ray scan is performed, such as scan mode (multi-slice, helical, etc.), tube voltage, slice thickness, and the like. The reconstruction processing conditions are conditions for performing reconstruction processing, such as a reconstruction mode (multi-slice reconstruction method, back projection method, etc.), a reconstruction field of view, a reconstruction function, and the like. The expert plan is individually provided according to the region of the subject (for example, for the head, for the coronary artery) and the like. In one test, a plurality of expert plans may be executed on one subject using an X-ray CT apparatus, and a series of operations may be performed a plurality of times.

  In addition, the X-ray CT apparatus can display on the display unit a screen (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a “raw data page”) for confirming and processing detection data and the like acquired by the X-ray scan. In the raw data page, display of a CT image based on detection data (projection data), processing on detection data (for example, re-execution of reconstruction processing), and the like are performed.

JP, 2005-185549, A

  Here, for example, when the operator is observing a CT image displayed on a raw data page, it may be desired to know an expert plan that has been executed to obtain the CT image. In this case, conventionally, the corresponding expert plan is determined while referring to the CT image or the like on which the operator is displayed. That is, it was difficult for the operator to judge the executed expert plan instantaneously.

  In addition, when there are a plurality of expert plans executed for one subject, the operator selects a desired expert plan on the raw data page and wants to confirm and process detection data etc. obtained by the expert plan. There is.

The embodiment is made to solve the above-mentioned problems, can quickly determine the executed operation plan, and easily select the desired operation plan from among the plurality of executed operation plans. An object of the present invention is to provide an X-ray CT system capable of

The X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment performs an X-ray scan based on an operation plan including a scan condition for performing an X-ray scan of a subject. The X-ray CT apparatus has a scan control unit, a creation unit, and a display control unit. The scan control unit controls execution of an X-ray scan on the subject based on each of the plurality of operation plans. The creation unit creates a list of plan information indicating the contents of each of a plurality of operation plans executed for one subject. The display control unit causes the display unit to display a list composed of the plurality of pieces of plan information created.

1 is a block diagram of an X-ray CT apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the list | wrist which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of operation | movement of the X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram of the X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of operation | movement of the X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on the modification 1. FIG. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on the modification 1. FIG. It is a schematic diagram explaining the raw data page which concerns on the modification 2. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an outline of the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus according to a third modification;

First Embodiment
The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

<Device configuration>
As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is configured to include a gantry device 10, a couch device 30, and a console device 40.

[Mounting device]
The gantry device 10 is a device that emits X-rays to a subject E and collects detection data of the X-rays transmitted through the subject E. The gantry device 10 includes an X-ray generation unit 11, an X-ray detection unit 12, a rotating body 13, a high voltage generation unit 14, a gantry drive unit 15, an X-ray diaphragm unit 16, and a diaphragm drive unit 17. And a data collection unit 18.

  The X-ray generation unit 11 is configured to include an X-ray tube (for example, a vacuum tube generating a conical or pyramidal beam; not shown) for generating X-rays. The generated X-rays are emitted to the subject E. The X-ray detection unit 12 is configured to include a plurality of X-ray detection elements (not shown). The X-ray detection unit 12 detects X-ray intensity distribution data (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “detection data”) indicating the intensity distribution of X-rays transmitted through the subject E with an X-ray detection element, and detects the detection data Output as a current signal. The X-ray detection unit 12 uses, for example, a two-dimensional X-ray detector (surface detector) in which a plurality of detection elements are arranged in two directions (slice direction and channel direction) orthogonal to each other. For example, 320 rows of the plurality of X-ray detection elements are provided along the slice direction. As described above, by using the multi-row X-ray detector, it is possible to capture a three-dimensional imaging region having a width in the slice direction in one rotation scan (volume scan). The slice direction corresponds to the body axis direction of the subject E, and the channel direction corresponds to the rotation direction of the X-ray generation unit 11.

  The rotating body 13 is a member that supports the X-ray generation unit 11 and the X-ray detection unit 12 so as to face each other across the subject E. The rotating body 13 has an opening 13a penetrating in the slice direction. In the gantry device 10, the rotary body 13 is arranged to rotate in a circular orbit centered on the subject E.

  The high voltage generation unit 14 applies a high voltage to the X-ray generation unit 11. The X-ray generation unit 11 generates X-rays based on the high voltage. The gantry driving unit 15 rotationally drives the rotating body 13. The X-ray diaphragm unit 16 has a slit (opening) of a predetermined width, and changes the width of the slit to change the fan angle (the spread angle in the channel direction) of the X-ray emitted from the X-ray generation unit 11 Adjust the cone angle of the line (the spread angle in the slice direction). The diaphragm drive unit 17 drives the X-ray diaphragm unit 16 so that the X-rays generated by the X-ray generation unit 11 have a predetermined shape.

  The data acquisition unit 18 (DAS: Data Acquisition System) acquires detection data from the X-ray detection unit 12 (each X-ray detection element). Further, the data collection unit 18 converts the collected detection data (current signal) into a voltage signal, periodically integrates and amplifies the voltage signal, and converts the voltage signal into a digital signal. Then, the data collection unit 18 transmits the detection data converted into the digital signal to the console device 40 (processing unit 42 (described later)).

[Sleeping device]
The couch device 30 is a device for placing and moving a subject E to be imaged. The couch device 30 includes a couch 31 and a couch driving unit 32. The bed 31 includes a bed top 33 for placing the subject E, and a base 34 that supports the bed top 33. The bed top plate 33 can be moved by the bed driving unit 32 in the body axis direction of the subject E and in a direction orthogonal to the body axis direction. That is, the bed driving unit 32 can insert and remove the bed top 33 on which the subject E is placed with respect to the opening 13 a of the rotating body 13. The bed 34 can move the bed top 33 in the vertical direction (direction orthogonal to the body axis direction of the subject E) by the bed driving unit 32.

Console device
The console device 40 is used for operation input to the X-ray CT apparatus 1. The console device 40 also has a function of reconstructing CT image data (tomographic image data and volume data) representing the internal form of the subject E from the detection data collected by the gantry device 10. The console device 40 includes a scan control unit 41, a processing unit 42, a creation unit 43, a display control unit 44, a storage unit 45, a display unit 46, an input unit 47, and a control unit 48. It is done.

  The scan control unit 41, the processing unit 42, the creation unit 43, the display control unit 44, and the control unit 48 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphic processing unit (GPU), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). And a storage device (not shown) such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), or an HDD (Hard Disc Drive). The storage device stores a control program for executing the function of each unit. A processing device such as a CPU executes functions of the respective units by executing each program stored in the storage device.

  The scan control unit 41 controls various operations related to the X-ray scan. The scan control unit 41 executes an X-ray scan based on the scan conditions included in the expert plan set in advance. The expert plan is an operation plan (a photographing plan, a processing plan, or an execution plan) including scan conditions, reconstruction processing conditions, and the like. The scan conditions refer to conditions under which an X-ray scan is performed, such as scan mode (multi-slice, helical, etc.), tube voltage, slice thickness, and the like. The reconstruction processing conditions are conditions for performing reconstruction processing, such as a reconstruction mode (multi-slice reconstruction method, back projection method, etc.), a reconstruction field of view, a reconstruction function, and the like. The expert plan is individually provided according to the region of the subject (for example, for the head, for the coronary artery) and the like. For example, the scan control unit 41 controls the high voltage generation unit 14 to apply a high voltage to the X-ray generation unit 11. The scan control unit 41 controls the gantry drive unit 15 to rotationally drive the rotating body 13. The scan control unit 41 controls the diaphragm drive unit 17 to operate the X-ray diaphragm unit 16. The scan control unit 41 controls the bed driving unit 32 to move the bed 31.

  The processing unit 42 executes various processes on the detection data transmitted from the gantry device 10 (data collection unit 18). The processing unit 42 includes a pre-processing unit 42 a, a reconstruction processing unit 42 b, and a rendering processing unit 42 c.

  The preprocessing unit 42a performs preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction, sensitivity correction, beam hardening correction, etc. on the detection data detected by the gantry device 10 (X-ray detection unit 12) to create projection data. Do.

The reconstruction processing unit 42 b reconstructs the projection data created by the preprocessing unit 42 a to create CT image data (tomographic image data and volume data). The reconstruction processing unit 42b executes the reconstruction processing based on the reconstruction processing condition R _k (k = 1 to n) (k and n are natural numbers, hereinafter the same) included in the expert plan set in advance. .

  For reconstruction of tomographic image data, any method such as a two-dimensional Fourier transform method, a convolution back projection method, or the like can be adopted, for example. Volume data is created by interpolating a plurality of reconstructed tomographic image data. Arbitrary methods, such as a cone beam reconstruction method, a multi-slice reconstruction method, and an expansion reconstruction method, can be adopted for volume data reconstruction, for example. As described above, volume scanning using multiple rows of X-ray detectors can reconstruct a wide range of volume data.

  The rendering processing unit 42c performs rendering processing on the volume data created by the reconstruction processing unit 42b. For example, the rendering processing unit 42c performs MPR display by rendering the volume data created by the reconstruction processing unit 42b in an arbitrary direction. That is, the rendering processing unit 42c creates an MPR image.

Here, in the present embodiment, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 sequentially executes a plurality of expert plans EP _k (k = 1 to n) on one subject E. Specifically, the scan control unit 41 performs an X-ray scan based on the expert plan EP _k . The preprocessing unit 42a preprocesses detection data obtained for each expert plan EP _k to create projection data. The reconstruction processing unit 42 b reconstructs projection data based on the reconstruction processing condition R _k included in the expert plan EP _k , and creates CT image data. The control unit 48 associates the executed expert plan EP _k with the acquired various data (detection data, projection data, CT image data), and stores the associated data in the storage unit 45. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 repeatedly performs a series of operations according to the number of set expert plans EP _k . Note that there may be a case where a plurality of X-ray scans are performed in one expert plan EP _k . The plurality of expert plan EP _k to be performed on the specimen E, before performing X-ray scanning, via the input unit 47 or the like can be set by inputting a desired plan. Alternatively, a plurality of expert plans EP _k can be set by selecting a desired plan from a plurality of predetermined plans. The plan determined in advance is stored in the storage unit 45 or the like.

The creation unit 43 creates a list L of plan information P _k (k = 1 to n) indicating the contents of each of a plurality of expert plans EP _k executed for one subject E.

The plan information P _k is information (plan name) indicating the content (a part of the content) of the corresponding expert plan EP _k . The plan information P _k includes information (for example, information on the region of the subject E, scan mode, etc.) which makes it possible to grasp the corresponding expert plan EP _k when the operator views the information. It should just be.

Site creation unit 43, for example, based on an instruction input from the input unit 47 or the like, for scanning information (e.g., the specimen E shown as plan information P _k from among a plurality of information contained in the expert plan EP _k, The scan mode or the like is specified, and the information is extracted and processed to create plan information P _k . The information indicated as the plan information P _k may be set in advance. The creation unit 43 can also change the information shown for each plan information P _k (described later).

Further, the creation unit 43 creates a list L of plan information P _k corresponding to the plurality of executed expert plans EP _k . The list L is a list in which a plurality of pieces of plan information P _k are indicated. Here, an example in which the plan information P _k created by the creating unit 43 is listed is described, but the creating unit 43 does not have to create the plan information P _k . For example, the storage unit 45 stores plan information P _k preset for each device. Then, the creation unit 43 can create the list L based on the stored plan information P _k .

FIG. 2 is an example of the list L. For example, if five expert plan _EP 1 _{~EP 5} is executed, creating unit 43 creates plan information _P 1 to P ₅ for each expert plan. Then, the creation unit 43 creates a list L indicating the plan information P _{1 to} P ₅ .

For example, the plan information _{P 1,} is shown as "Brain HCT 5mm". Therefore, the operator can instantly determine the corresponding expert plan EP ₁ (plan for executing a helical scan with a slice thickness of 5 mm for the brain) from the plan information P ₁ . Further, since the plurality of plan information items P _{1 to} P ₅ are displayed as the list L, the operator can easily select desired plan information (an expert plan corresponding to the plan information).

In the list L illustrated in FIG. 2, as described above, the creating unit 43 changes the information indicated for each plan information P _k . That is, the contents indicated by the plan information P ₁ and plan information P ₂ (site scanning a subject E, scan mode, slice thickness) and is different from the content indicated by the other plan information. For example, the plan information _{P 5} depends upon the site of scanning the subject E (heart) and a scan mode (CT angiography .Computed Tomography Angiography: CTA) shows only.

  The display control unit 44 performs various controls related to image display. For example, control is performed to cause the display unit 46 to display a CT image based on the CT image data created by the reconstruction processing unit 42b. In addition, the display control unit 44 can set one screen of the display unit 46 as one page, provide a plurality of display fields on one page, and display different information and images in each display field. The raw data page RP described below is an example thereof.

  In the present embodiment, the display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the list L created by the creation unit 43. As a specific example, the display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the list L at a predetermined position of the raw data page RP.

  In addition, when the desired first plan information is selected from the list L, the display control unit 44 is based on an X-ray scan by a first expert plan (first operation plan) corresponding to the first plan information. The display unit 46 displays the first CT image and the first reconstruction processing condition included in the first expert plan used to create the first CT image.

3A to 3C are schematic views showing the raw data page RP displayed on the display unit 46. As shown in FIG. In FIGS. 3A to 3C, only some of the information and images displayed on the raw data page RP (list L, scan information S _k (k = 1 to n), CT images A _k (k = 1 to n) And reconstruction processing conditions R _k ).

Scan information S _k shows the results of the scan is actually executed on the basis of expert plan EP _k corresponding to the plan information P _k. As the scan information _Sk , for example, the start position / end position of the scan actually performed, the number of scans, etc. are displayed. CT image A _k is an image based on the reconstruction process condition R _k contained in expert plan EP _k corresponding to the selected plan information P _k. Note that the display of the list L, the scan information S _k , the CT image A _k , and the reconstruction processing condition R _k is not limited to the arrangement of FIGS. 3A to 3C.

  The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the raw data page RP based on an instruction input from the input unit 47 or the like.

When a patient ID, date, and the like are input in a predetermined field (not shown) of the raw data page RP, the display control unit 44 displays a list L indicating the plan information P _k corresponding to the patient ID etc. (See FIG. 3A). List is shown in FIG. 3A L is a diagram showing a plan information _P 1 to P ₅ showing a certain expert plan _EP 1 _{~EP 5} each content performed on one specimen E by inspection.

When the operator selects a desired plan information P ₁ via the input unit 47 or the like, the display control unit 44, scan information S ₁ corresponding to the expert plan EP ₁ stored in the storage unit 45 or the _like, CT The image A ₁ and the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ are displayed (see FIG. 3B).

Furthermore, when selected different plan information _{P 3} is a plan information _{P 1,} the display control unit 44 displays the scan information _S 3, CT image _{A 3,} reconstruction process condition _{R 3} corresponding to the expert plan EP ₃ (See FIG. 3C).

Plan information P ₁ described above is an example of the "first plan information." Expert plan EP ₁ is an example of the "first operation plan". CT image _{A 1} is an example of the "first CT image". Reconstruction process condition R ₁ is an example of the "first reconstruction process condition". Plan information P ₃ is an example of the "second plan information." Expert plan EP ₃ is an example of the "second operation plan". CT image _{A 3} is an example of the "second CT image".

  The storage unit 45 is configured of a semiconductor storage device such as a RAM or a ROM. The storage unit 45 stores detection data, projection data, CT image data after reconstruction processing, etc. in association with an expert plan.

  The display unit 46 is configured by an arbitrary display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT) display. For example, a raw data page is displayed on the display unit 46.

  The input unit 47 is used as an input device for performing various operations on the console device 40. The input unit 47 includes, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, and the like. Further, it is also possible to use a GUI (Graphical User Interface) displayed on the display unit 46 as the input unit 47.

  The control unit 48 performs overall control of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 by controlling the operations of the gantry device 10, the couch device 30, and the console device 40. For example, the control unit 48 controls the scan control unit 41 to cause the gantry device 10 to execute a preliminary scan and a main scan to collect detection data. Further, the control unit 48 controls the processing unit 42 to perform various processing (pre-processing, reconstruction processing, MPR processing, and the like) on the detection data. Alternatively, the control unit 48 causes the display unit 46 to display a CT image based on the image data and the like stored in the storage unit 45 by controlling the display control unit 44.

<Operation>
Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, an example in which _five expert plans EP _{1 to} EP ₅ are executed for one subject E will be described. The S numbers shown below are the step numbers in FIG.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1 registers the subject E (patient registration) based on the instruction input via the input unit 47 or the like (S10). Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 sets a plurality of expert plans (here, expert plans EP _{1 to} EP ₅ ) to be executed on the subject E based on an instruction input via the input unit 47 etc. S11).

Thereafter, the X-ray CT apparatus 1, based on the expert plan _EP 1 _{~EP 5} set in S11, to start the X-ray scanning (S12).

Specifically, first, based on the expert plan EP _1, the X-ray generator 11 irradiates X-rays to the subject E. The X-ray detection unit 12 detects X-rays transmitted through the subject E and acquires detection data thereof (S13). The detection data detected by the X-ray detection unit 12 is collected by the data collection unit 18 and sent to the processing unit 42 (pre-processing unit 42 a).

  The preprocessing unit 42a performs preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction, sensitivity correction, beam hardening correction, and the like on the detection data acquired in S13, and creates projection data (S14). The generated projection data is sent to the reconstruction processing unit 42b based on the control of the control unit 48.

Reconstruction processor 42b applies the reconstruction process condition _{R 1} included in the expert plan EP _1, to create the CT image data based on projection data created by S14 (S15).

Then, X-rays CT apparatus 1 (case in S16: N) that expert plan _EP 2 _{~EP 5} sequentially executes processing similar to S12~S15 based on.

After all expert plan is executed (the case of Y in S16), creation unit 43 creates a list L of the plan information _P 1 to P ₅ indicating five expert plan _EP 1 _{~EP 5} each content ( S17). The process of S17 may be performed in parallel with the operations of S12 to S15.

  After S17, when confirming detection data and the like obtained by executing each expert plan, the operator inputs the patient ID and the like of the subject E into the X-ray CT apparatus 1 via the input unit 47 and the like. Based on the patient ID and the like, the display control unit 44 displays the list L created in S17 on the raw data page RP displayed on the display unit 46 (S18).

Plan information _P 1 to P ₅ shown in list L shows the contents of the corresponding expert plan _EP 1 _{~EP 5.} Thus, the surgeon by plan information _P 1 to P _5, which is displayed in the list L, can grasp the expert plan _EP 1 _{~EP 5} performed on the specimen E instantly. Further, as the desired plan information, for example, plan information when you select P _1, corresponding expert plan EP CT image A ₁ obtained in ₁ and reconstruction process condition R ₁ display unit 46 (raw data page on RP Can be confirmed by).

Although the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has been described in the present embodiment, the configuration that achieves the function in the present embodiment is not limited to the X-ray CT apparatus 1. For example, the expert plan EP _k executed by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 and the acquired detection data are transmitted to an apparatus (for example, a display apparatus such as an image viewer) different from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 The same function as that of the embodiment can be realized by performing the same process as above. In this case, it is desirable that the creating unit 43, the display control unit 44, and the display unit 46 be provided in the display device.

<Operation and effect>
The operation and effects of the present embodiment will be described.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment performs an X-ray scan based on an expert plan EP _k including a scan condition for performing an X-ray scan of the subject E. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 has a creation unit 43 and a display control unit 44. The creation unit 43 generates plan information P _k (for example, plan information P ₁ to P) indicating the contents of each of a plurality of expert plans EP _k (for example, expert plans EP _{1 to} EP ₅ ) executed for one subject E. P ₅ ) Create a list L. The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the created list L.

As described above, by displaying the plan information P _k indicating the content of the expert plan EP _k , the operator can easily know the content of the expert plan EP _k corresponding to the plan information P _k . Therefore, it can be determined instantly which expert plan has been executed. Also, by displaying a plurality of plan information in the list L, it is possible to easily select an expert plan EP _k corresponding to desired plan information P _k . That is, according to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 in the present embodiment, it is possible to instantaneously determine the executed expert plan, and to easily select a desired expert plan from among a plurality of executed expert plans. Become.

Moreover, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has a reconstruction processing unit 42 b. The reconstruction processing unit 42b reconstructs projection data corresponding to the detection data acquired by the X-ray scan based on the reconstruction processing condition R _k included in the expert plan EP _k , and creates CT image data. . When the desired first plan information (for example, plan information P ₁ ) is selected from the list L, the display control unit 44 selects a first expert plan (first operation plan) corresponding to the first plan information. For example, the first CT image (for example, CT image A ₁ ) based on the X-ray scan according to the expert plan EP ₁ ) is displayed on the display unit 46. Further, when the desired first plan information (for example, plan information P ₁ ) is selected from the list L, the display control unit 44 sets the first expert plan used when creating the first CT image. The display unit 46 displays the _first reconstruction processing condition (for example, the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ) included.

Thus, if desired plan information P _k is selected, CT image A _k and reconstruction process condition R _k corresponds to the plan information P _k is displayed on the display unit 46. Therefore, it is possible to easily confirm the reconstruction process condition R _k or the like which is obtained CT image A _k and were used by the expert plan EP _k corresponding to the plan information P _k which is selected.

Moreover, it is also possible to apply the configuration of the present embodiment to a display device. Such a display device includes a creation unit 43, a display unit 46, and a display control unit 44. The creation unit 43 creates a list L of plan information P _k indicating the contents of each of a plurality of expert plans EP _k including scan conditions for performing X-ray scanning of the subject E performed on one subject E. . The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the created list L.

Thus, in the external device of the X-ray CT apparatus 1, by displaying the plan information P _k indicating the contents of the expert plan EP _k, surgeon, the contents of the expert plan EP _k corresponding to the plan information P _k You can easily know Therefore, it can be determined instantly which expert plan has been executed. Also, by displaying a plurality of plan information in the list L, it is possible to easily select an expert plan EP _k corresponding to desired plan information P _k . That is, according to the display device in the present embodiment, it is possible to instantaneously determine the executed expert plan, and to easily select a desired expert plan from among a plurality of executed expert plans.

Second Embodiment
Next, the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. In this embodiment, a configuration will be described in which, when the reconstruction processing condition included in a certain expert plan is changed, the modified reconstruction processing condition is applied to other expert plans. The change of the reconstruction processing condition included in the expert plan includes the addition of a new reconstruction processing condition to the expert plan. The detailed description may be omitted for the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

<Device configuration>
As shown in FIG. 5, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 in the present embodiment is configured to include a gantry device 10, a couch device 30, and a console device 40, as in the first embodiment.

The console device 40 in the present embodiment has a change unit 49. The changing unit 49 changes the reconstruction processing condition R _k displayed on the display unit 46 based on the instruction input from the input unit 47. Hereinafter, the changed reconstruction processing condition R _k is indicated by reconstruction processing condition R _k ′ (k = 1 to n).

As described above, by freely changing the reconstruction processing condition R _k , the reconstruction processing unit 42 b can create various CT image data based on one detection data (projection data). The control unit 48 associates the CT image data reconstructed on the basis of the reconstruction processing condition R _k ′ and the reconstruction processing condition R _k ′ with the expert plan EP _k and stores the CT image data in the storage unit 45. it can.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the second plan information different from the first plan information is selected from the list L, the display control unit 44 selects the second expert plan (the second expert plan corresponding to the second plan information). The second CT image based on the X-ray scan according to the operation plan (2) and the changed first reconstruction processing condition are displayed on the display unit.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when the second plan information is selected from the list L, the reconstruction processing unit 42b determines, based on the modified reconstruction processing condition, the projection data that constitutes the second CT image. New CT image data is created by performing reconstruction again. The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display a third CT image based on the new CT image data.

6A to 6C are schematic views showing the raw data page RP displayed on the display unit 46. As shown in FIG. 6A to 6C show only a part of information and images displayed on the raw data page RP. Note that “Recon” is a soft key K for instructing execution of the reconstruction process. When the soft key K is selected by the input unit 47 or the like, the reconfiguration processing unit 42b performs reconfiguration processing (reexecution of the reconfiguration processing) based on the reconfiguration processing condition displayed on the display unit 46. . Further, the CT images A _k ′ (k = 1 to n) are images based on the reconstruction processing condition R _k ′.

If the surgeon is through the input unit 47 or the like to select the desired plan information _{P 1,} the display control unit 44, scan information _S 1, CT image _{A 1} corresponding to the expert plan EP _1, reconstruction process condition _{R 1} Is displayed (see FIG. 3B of the first embodiment).

In this state, if the value of via the input unit 47 reconstruction process condition R ₁ is changed, the changing unit 49 generates the reconstruction process condition R _{1 'based} on the modified values (see FIG. 6A ). Reconstruction process condition R _{1 'after} is generated, when the soft key K is chosen, the reconstruction processor 42b are reconstruction process condition R ₁ projection data configuring the CT image A _1' reconstruction process in And create CT image data. The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display a CT image A ₁ ′ based on the CT image data (see FIG. 6A).

In the present embodiment, when the selected different plan information _{P 3} is a plan information _{P 1,} the display control unit 44, the raw data page RP, scan information _S 3 corresponding to the expert plan EP _3, CT The reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′ is displayed together with the image A ₃ (see FIG. 6B). That is, the display control unit 44 takes over and displays the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′ set in the plan information P ₁ selected earlier as the reconstruction processing condition of the plan information P ₃ . In this case, the display control unit 44 does not display the reconstruction process condition R ₃ corresponding to the expert plan EP _3. Alternatively, in this case, the display control unit 44 may display the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′ and the reconstruction processing condition R ₃ in parallel.

For example, the operator can set in advance whether or not to take over the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′ via the input unit 47. In the case of setting to take over, the display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′. If setting is not carried over, the display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 the reconstruction process condition R ₃ included in the expert plan EP _3. In addition, when the reconfiguration processing condition R _k is changed and different plan information is selected, the display control unit 44 may automatically hand over the reconfiguration processing condition R _k ′.

The state soft key K in FIG. 6B is selected, the reconstruction processor 42b is to again reconstruction processing in the reconstruction process condition R _{1 'projection} data configuring the CT image A _3, the new CT image data Create The display control unit 44, instead of the CT image _{A 3,} and displays the CT image _{A 3} 'based on the new CT image data to the display unit 46 (see FIG. 6C). When the reconstruction processing condition R _k is changed and different plan information is selected, the reconstruction processing unit 42 b automatically performs the reconstruction processing based on the selection of the different plan information, and a new CT image is generated. It is also possible to create data.

Plan information P ₁ described above is an example of the "first plan information." Expert plan EP ₁ is an example of the "first operation plan". CT image _{A 1} is an example of the "first CT image". Reconstruction process condition R ₁ is an example of the "first reconstruction process condition". Plan information P ₃ is an example of the "second plan information." Expert plan EP ₃ is an example of the "second operation plan". CT image _{A 3} is an example of the "second CT image". The reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′ is an example of the “changed first reconstruction processing condition”. The CT image A ₃ ′ is an example of the “third CT image”.

<Operation>
Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the plan information P ₁ is selected from the list L, and the scan information S ₁ , the CT image A ₁ , and the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ are displayed on the raw data page RP (FIG. 3B in the first embodiment) State) is assumed. The S numbers shown below are the step numbers in FIG.

For example, if it is desired to obtain easily CT image observed from CT image A ₁ that is currently displayed, the operator changes the reconstruction process condition values of R ₁ through an input unit 47. Changing unit 49 changes the reconstruction process condition R ₁ based on the instruction input from the input unit 47, it generates the reconstruction process condition R _{1 '(S20).}

If a soft key K has been selected in S20 state, the reconstruction processor 42b reconstructs treated again on the basis of the reconstruction process condition R _{1 'projection} data configuring the CT image A _1, the CT image data create. The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display a CT image A ₁ ′ based on the CT image data (S21, see FIG. 6A).

Thereafter, the surgeon, and are different plan information P ₃ is selected from the plan information P ₁ on the raw data page RP (S22). At this point, the display control unit 44 displays the CT image A ₃ on the raw data page RP.

Here, (the case of Y at S23) when taking over the reconstruction process condition R1' generated in S20, the display control unit 44 displays the reconstruction process condition _{R 1} 'on the display unit 46 (S24. FIG. 6B reference).

Furthermore, the soft key K is chosen, the reconstruction processor 42b is to again reconstruction processing in the reconstruction process condition R _{1 'projection} data configuring the CT image A _3, to create a new CT image data . The display control unit 44, instead of the CT image _{A 3,} and displays the CT image _{A 3} 'based on the new CT image data to the display unit 46 (S25. See Fig. 6C).

On the other hand, (the case of N in S23) if not take over the reconstruction process condition R1' generated in S20, the display control unit 44, reconstruction process condition contained in the expert plan EP ₃ corresponding to the plan information _{P 3} R ₃ is displayed on the display unit 46 (S26).

<Operation and effect>
The operation and effects of the present embodiment will be described.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has a changing unit 49. The changing unit 49 changes the first reconstruction processing condition (for example, the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ) displayed on the display unit 46. When the second plan information (for example, plan information P ₃ ) different from the first plan information (for example, plan information P ₁ ) is selected from the list L, the display control unit 44 selects the second plan information. corresponding second expert plan (second operation plan. for example, expert plan EP ₃₎ based on X-ray scanning by the second CT image (e.g., CT image a _3), and the modified first reconstruction was The processing condition (for example, reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′) is displayed on the display unit 46.

Further, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when the second plan information (for example, plan information P ₃ ) is selected from the list L, the reconstruction processing unit 42b performs the second CT image (for example, New CT image data is reconstructed by reconstructing the projection data constituting the CT image A ₃ ) again based on the changed first reconstruction processing condition (for example, reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′). create. The display control unit 44, the third CT image based on the new CT image data (e.g., CT image _{A 3} ') on the display unit 46.

As described above, when different plan information is selected, the reconfiguration processing conditions changed in the previous plan information are handed over, and thus different detection data obtained by a plurality of expert plans EP _k are re-arranged under the same conditions. Configuration processing can be performed. Therefore, each time plan information is selected, desired reconstruction processing conditions can be applied without setting reconstruction processing conditions. That is, according to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 in the present embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, setting of reconstruction processing conditions across a plurality of expert plans is facilitated.

(Modification 1)
In the second embodiment, an example in which the changed reconfiguration processing condition is inherited is described, but the handover of the reconfiguration processing condition is not limited to this. That is, there is also a case where it is desired to apply to other plan information without changing the reconstruction processing condition in certain plan information.

For example, in the state of FIG. 3B in the first embodiment, without changing the reconstruction process condition R _1, description will be given of a case where should also applied to a reconstruction process based on the expert plan EP ₃ corresponding to the plan information P _3.

If the selected different plan information P ₃ from the list L with the plan information P _1, the display control unit 44, CT image A ₃ based on X-ray scanning by the expert plan EP ₃ corresponding to the plan information P _3, and takes over it displays the reconstruction process condition _{R 1} on the display unit 46 (see FIG. 8A).

The reconstruction processing unit 42b is a projection data configuring the CT image A _3, by reconstruction processing again on the basis of the reconstruction process condition R _1, to create a new CT image data. The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display a CT image A _{3 ′ ′} based on the new CT image data (see FIG. 8B). The CT image A ₃ ′ ′ is an example of the “third CT image”.

(Modification 2)
In the second embodiment, the display control unit 44, have dealt with the cases where instead of the CT image A _3, is displayed on the display unit 46 the CT image A _{3 'based} on the new CT image data. On the other hand, the display control unit 44 can also display these CT images on one screen.

For example, the display control unit 44 selects a CT image A ₃ (second CT image) based on the reconstruction processing condition R ₃ and a CT image A ₃ ′ (third CT image) based on the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ ′. Are displayed in parallel on the display unit 46 (see FIG. 9). The display control unit 44, parallel display on CT image _{A 1} (first CT image) and the display unit 46 'CT image _{A 1} based on the' reconstruction process condition _{R 1} based on the reconstruction process condition _{R 1} It is also possible to

  As described above, by arranging and displaying a plurality of CT images obtained by applying different reconstruction processing conditions to the same projection data on the display unit 46, it is possible to determine an optimal reconstruction processing condition for projection data, etc. It becomes.

(Modification 3)
In the second embodiment, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 may have an automatic handover mode (first mode) and a manual handover mode (second mode) as a handover operation mode of the changed reconstruction processing condition. . Here, in the automatic handover mode, it is determined whether or not the changed reconfiguration processing condition can be handed over based on a predetermined handover condition, and when it is determined that the handover is possible, the changed reconfiguration processing condition is It is a mode to be handed over to plan information. On the other hand, the manual handover mode is a mode in which the changed reconfiguration processing conditions are handed over to other plan information, for example, based on an instruction input from the input unit 47 or the like. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 can take over the changed reconfiguration processing condition to other plan information according to the set handover operation mode.

The operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the third modification will be described with reference to FIG. Here, as in FIG. 7, the plan information P ₁ is selected from the list L, and the scan information S ₁ , the CT image A ₁ , and the reconstruction processing condition R ₁ are displayed on the raw data page RP (first It states on the assumption of the state of FIG. 3B in embodiment. The S numbers shown below are the step numbers in FIG.

For example, if it is desired to obtain easily CT image observed from CT image A ₁ that is currently displayed, the operator changes the value of the reconstruction process condition R ₁ by via the input unit 47 instruction input. Changing unit 49 changes the reconstruction process condition R ₁ based on an instruction input from the input unit 47, it generates the reconstruction process condition R _{1 '(S30).}

If a soft key K is selected in S30 in the state, the reconstruction processor 42b reconstructs treated again on the basis of the reconstruction process condition R _{1 'projection} data configuring the CT image A _1, the CT image data create. The display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display a CT image A ₁ ′ based on the CT image data (S 31).

Thereafter, the surgeon, and are different plan information P ₃ is selected from the plan information P ₁ on the raw data page RP (S32). At this point, the display control unit 44 displays the CT image A ₃ on the raw data page RP.

  Here, it is assumed that the above-described takeover operation mode is set in advance for the X-ray CT apparatus 1 (control unit 48) prior to S33. When the automatic takeover mode is set in advance (in the case of Y in S33), the control unit 48 or the display control unit 44 takes over the reconfiguration processing condition R1 'generated in S30 to the plan information selected in S32 It is checked whether it is possible (S34). In S34, for example, the modified reconstruction processing condition is changed based on at least one of the expert plan name, the plan information (plan information selected in S32), the parameter at the time of scanning, and the parameter at the time of reconstruction processing, It is checked whether the handover target plan information selected in S32 can be handed over.

  As a result of the check in S34, when it is determined that the handover is possible (in the case of Y in S35), the display control unit 44 causes the display unit 46 to display the reconstruction processing condition R1 'generated in S30 (S36).

Furthermore, the soft key K is chosen, the reconstruction processor 42b is to again reconstruction processing in the reconstruction process condition R _{1 'projection} data configuring the CT image A _3, create the new CT image data Do. The display control unit 44, instead of the CT image _{A 3,} and displays the CT image _{A 3} 'based on the new CT image data to the display unit 46 (S37).

On the other hand, a result of checking in S34, when it has not been determined possible takeover (case of N at S35), the display control unit 44 re-included in the expert plan EP ₃ corresponding to the plan information P ₃ selected in S32 and it displays the configuration process conditions _{R 3} on the display unit 46 (S38).

In addition, when the manual handover mode is set in advance in S33 (in the case of N in S33), whether to take over the reconfiguration processing condition R1 'generated in S30 based on the instruction input from the input unit 47 Is determined. When taking over the reconfiguration processing condition R1 ′ generated in S30 based on an instruction input from the input unit 47 (Y in S39), the display control unit 44 displays the reconfiguration processing condition R ₁ ′ in the display unit 46. (S36).

In contrast, based on an instruction input from the input unit 47 (in the case of N at S39) if not take over the reconstruction process condition R1' generated in S30, the display controller 44, corresponding to the plan information P ₃ on the display unit 46 the reconstruction process condition _{R 3} included in the expert plan EP ₃ to (S38).

  Thus, it becomes possible to take over to other plan information or not to take over according to the changed reconfiguration processing condition, and the operability can be improved along with the change of the reconfiguration processing condition. It becomes.

<Effect common to the embodiments>
According to the X-ray CT apparatus of at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to instantaneously determine the executed expert plan by displaying the plan information indicating the contents of each of the plurality of expert plans in a list. It is possible to easily select a desired expert plan from among a plurality of expert plans. It is also possible to appropriately combine the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

  While certain embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in other various forms, and various omissions, replacements, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof as well as included in the scope and the gist of the invention.

Reference Signs List 1 X-ray CT apparatus 10 gantry 11 X-ray generator 12 X-ray detector 13 rotating body 13a opening 14 high voltage generator 15 gantry driver 16 X-ray diaphragm 17 aperture driver 18 data acquisition unit 30 bed 32 Bed driving unit 33 bed top plate 34 base 40 console device 41 scan control unit 42 processing unit 42a pre-processing unit 42b reconstruction processing unit 42c rendering processing unit 43 creation unit 44 display control unit 45 storage unit 46 display unit 47 input unit 48 Control unit

Claims (9)

An X-ray CT apparatus which performs the X-ray scan based on an operation plan including scan conditions for X-ray scanning an object.
A scan control unit configured to control execution of the X-ray scan on the subject based on each of the plurality of motion plans;
A creation unit configured to receive a piece of plan information indicating the contents of each of the plurality of motion plans executed for one subject, and create a list composed of the plurality of pieces of plan information;
A display control unit that causes the display unit to display the created list;
An X-ray CT apparatus characterized by having: An X-ray CT apparatus which performs the X-ray scan based on an operation plan including scan conditions for X-ray scanning an object.
A scan control unit configured to control execution of the X-ray scan on the subject based on each of the plurality of motion plans;
A creation unit configured to receive a piece of plan information indicating the contents of each of the plurality of motion plans executed for one subject, and create a list composed of the plurality of pieces of plan information;
The created list is displayed on a display unit, and a first CT image based on the X-ray scan according to a first operation plan corresponding to the first plan information with the first plan information selected in the list , And after displaying the first reconstruction processing condition on the display unit, if the first reconstruction processing condition is changed, the second different from the first plan information from the list. When plan information is Ru is selected, the display of the second CT image based on the X-ray scanning by the second operation plan corresponding to the second plan information, and the modified first reconstruction process condition A display control unit to be displayed on the unit;
An X-ray CT apparatus characterized by having: And a reconstruction processing unit that reconstructs projection data corresponding to the detection data acquired by the X-ray scan based on reconstruction processing conditions included in the operation plan, and creates CT image data,
The display control unit, when desired first plan information is selected from the list, a first CT image based on the X-ray scan according to a first operation plan corresponding to the first plan information, and The first reconstruction processing condition included in the first operation plan used when creating the first CT image is displayed on the display unit. X-ray CT system. A changing unit that changes the first reconstruction processing condition displayed on the display unit;
When the second plan information different from the first plan information is selected from the list after the first reconstruction processing condition is changed , the display control unit changes the second plan information to the second plan information. 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the display unit displays a second CT image based on the X-ray scan according to a corresponding second operation plan and the changed first reconstruction processing condition. CT apparatus. The display control unit is configured to select a first CT image based on the X-ray scan according to a first operation plan corresponding to the first plan information by selecting the first plan information in the list, and a first reselection. after displaying the configuration process conditions on the display unit, when the first reconstruction process condition is changed, if the again the list Ru is different from the second plan information is selected from the first plan information And displaying on the display unit a second CT image based on the X-ray scan according to a second operation plan corresponding to the second plan information, and the changed first reconstruction processing condition. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein When the second plan information is selected from the list after the first reconstruction processing condition is changed , the reconstruction processing unit changes projection data that constitutes the second CT image. New CT image data is created by performing reconstruction processing again based on the first reconstruction processing condition.
5. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the display control unit causes the display unit to display a third CT image based on the new CT image data. If the from the list second plan information is selected, the reconstruction processor includes a projection shadow data that make up the second CT image, again reconstructed based on the first reconstruction process condition Create new CT image data by processing
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the display control unit causes the display unit to display a third CT image based on the new CT image data.   The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the display control unit causes the display unit to display the second CT image and the third CT image in parallel. An X-ray CT apparatus comprising: a scan control unit that controls execution of the X-ray scan based on an operation plan including a scan condition for performing X-ray scan of an object;
A display device for receiving and displaying the operation plan from the X-ray CT apparatus;
The display device is
Receiving a piece of plan information indicating the contents of each of a plurality of operation plans including scan conditions for performing X-ray scanning of the subject, which is executed for one subject, a list composed of a plurality of pieces of plan information is created To create
A display unit,
A display control unit that causes the display unit to display the created list;
X-ray CT system characterized by having.

Images