JP7301725B2 - Shooting planning device and shooting planning method - Google Patents

Description

The embodiment of the present invention relates to a photography planning device and a photography planning method.

In the field of medical equipment, when an X-ray CT (computed tomography) apparatus or the like scans a subject (patient) using radiation such as X-rays, scanning is usually performed according to a preset scanning protocol. A scan protocol is a set of scan parameters used when a scan device such as a CT scan device scans, and includes scan parameters such as radiation dose, scan time, and number of times of use, for example. In practice, choosing an appropriate scanning protocol for a CT scanning device is of great importance.

In the prior art, a method is generally used in which scan protocols to be grouped are set in advance, and a plurality of scan protocols are compared using histograms and selected by the viewer.

Scanning protocols may also be adjusted using international standard DRLs (Diagnostic Reference Levels). DRL is to identify abnormally high patient dose levels or administration activity. When running a scan protocol or predictive program, if the DRL is consistently exceeded, the program and equipment should be locally tested and the scan protocol adjusted to ensure it is already sufficiently optimized. .

For example, Patent Document 1 (US2012/0213326A1) discloses a technique for evaluating scan parameters of a selected scan protocol and generating a signal indicating whether the scan parameters satisfy a scan parameter policy based on the scan parameters. It is

However, the conventional scan protocol selection method is not intuitive, and each graph of each scan protocol needs to be inspected individually to obtain detailed information, which requires at least three steps, and the abnormal protocol is intuitive. cannot be found in

In addition, the above prior art does not suggest how to adjust the abnormal scanning protocol, and it is necessary to rely on the viewer's experience.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0213326

One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification is to provide an imaging planning apparatus and an imaging planning method that can intuitively display an abnormality in a scan protocol. However, it is not limited to the above problems, and it can be positioned as another problem to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification etc. that the effects derived from each configuration shown in the following description of the invention can be achieved. can.

A shooting planning apparatus according to an embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a display control unit. The acquisition unit acquires a first value of a first index related to X-ray dose and a second value of a second index related to image quality based on X-ray imaging conditions of a subject set in a predetermined examination. . The display control unit causes the display unit to display a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index, and displays the above information based on the diagnostic reference level corresponding to the predetermined examination in the association diagram. Displaying the allowable ranges of the first index and the second index differently from ranges other than the allowable ranges, and displaying marks at positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value. .

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the scan protocol adjusting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a graph showing the relationship between evaluation parameters and diagnostic performance. FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an artificial intelligence protocol coordination model. FIG. 4 is a three-dimensional display showing protocol reference planes and anomalous scan protocol prediction results. FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing the scan protocol adjustment operation of the scan protocol adjustment device in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a scan protocol adjustment device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of the simulation model. FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the scan protocol adjustment operation of the scan protocol adjustment device in the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of the CT scan protocol management system in the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flow chart of the scan protocol management process of the CT scan protocol management system in the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of the CT scan protocol management system in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flow chart of the scan protocol management process of the CT scan protocol management system in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a scan protocol adjustment device and a scan protocol adjustment method that can intuitively display an abnormality in a scan protocol and easily adjust the scan protocol. do. Note that the scan protocol is also called an imaging plan. The scan protocol adjusting device is also called an imaging planning device. The scan protocol adjustment method is also called an imaging planning method.

One technical proposal calculates and draws a protocol reference plane as a reference standard in a space where each evaluation parameter is displayed as a dimension based on a predetermined range of evaluation parameters used when evaluating a scan protocol. a protocol reference reference plane drawing unit for drawing, a scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction unit for predicting evaluation parameters corresponding to the scan protocol and obtaining evaluation parameter prediction results, and a mapping unit for mapping the evaluation parameter prediction results to the space. and an evaluation adjustment unit that evaluates or adjusts the scan protocol based on the positional relationship between the evaluation parameter prediction result and the protocol reference plane.

Also, the scan protocol adjustment device is provided in a scan protocol management server, the scan protocol management server receives the scan protocol from the medical scanning device, and distributes the adjusted scan protocol to the medical scanning device and other medical scanning devices. It may be broadcast to A medical scanning device is called, for example, a scanning device, a medical image diagnostic device, a modality, or the like. A scan protocol management server is also called a medical information management server.

Further, the scan protocol adjustment device is provided in a medical scan device, and the medical scan device receives a scan protocol from a scan protocol management server, converts the scan protocol into a scan protocol applicable to the model of the medical scan device, and The scan protocol adjustment device may evaluate or adjust the converted scan protocol using the protocol reference plane.

Another technical proposal calculates a protocol reference plane as a reference standard in a space displayed with each evaluation parameter as a dimension based on a predetermined range of evaluation parameters used when evaluating a scan protocol. a protocol reference reference surface drawing step for drawing; a scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction step for predicting evaluation parameters corresponding to the scan protocol to obtain evaluation parameter prediction results; and a mapping step for mapping the evaluation parameter prediction results to the space. and an evaluation adjustment step of evaluating or adjusting the scan protocol based on the positional relationship between the evaluation parameter prediction result and the protocol reference plane.

According to the technical solution of the present invention, it is possible to intuitively display the abnormality of the scan protocol and easily adjust the scan protocol.

The present invention relates to an imaging planning apparatus (also called a "scan protocol adjusting apparatus") and an imaging planning method for adjusting a scan protocol used when scanning a subject with a radiation scanning apparatus. However, the scan protocol is a set of scan parameters used when a scan device such as a CT scan device scans. For example, at least one of tube current, tube voltage, helical pitch, imaging range, imaging time, and slice thickness may be included. Note that the scan protocol is an example of X-ray imaging conditions.

The radiography planning apparatus is software that has a CPU (central processing unit) such as an independent computer installed in equipment such as a scanning device or a scan protocol management server and has each function of the radiography planning apparatus. or in the form of hardware as a circuit capable of executing each function of the imaging planning apparatus. Further, the imaging planning apparatus of the present invention may be pre-installed in the above-described scanning apparatus as a part of a scanning apparatus such as a CT scanning apparatus or a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. That is, the imaging planning apparatus may be provided in the medical image diagnostic apparatus or the medical information management server.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the brief description of the drawings. Also, in different embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for the same or similar parts, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted. In addition, each embodiment described below can be combined with each other as long as there is no contradiction in the processing contents.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging planning apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1 , the acquisition planner 100 includes a protocol reference plane drawing module 10 , a scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 , a mapping module 30 and an evaluation adjustment module 40 .

The protocol reference plane drawing module 10 draws a protocol reference plane (Protocol Reference Standard Surface, abbreviated as PRSS) is calculated and drawn. The protocol reference plane drawing module 10 may be a circuit or software module capable of realizing the above functions.

The evaluation parameter referred to here is an evaluation parameter used when evaluating a scan protocol, and a conventional and often used evaluation parameter may be used. Evaluation parameters that are often used include, for example, I image noise, spatial resolution, contrast noise ratio, low contrast resolution, Z-axis resolution, CNR (contrast-to-noise ratio), SNR (signal-to-noise ratio), etc. , parameters indicating the image quality of medical images scanned by applying a scan protocol, and dose index (CTDI: Computed tomography dose index), dose and length product (DLP: dose length product), Size Specific Dose Estimation (SSDE ) that indicate the radiation dose received by the subject since application of the scan protocol. Image quality and radiation dose are emphasized when evaluating scanning protocols. Therefore, image quality and dose are the main evaluation points here.

Reasonable ranges of image quality and dose can be identified as predetermined ranges based on different types of scanning devices and subject characteristics. In other words, the protocol reference plane drawing module 10 obtains a reasonable range indicating the image quality and dose thresholds as the allowable range, and identifies the position and size of the protocol reference plane based on the allowable range.

As an example of specifying the predetermined range, the allowable range can be specified by obtaining the relationship between the evaluation parameter and the diagnostic performance based on the study of past scan images and diagnostic data. In particular, based on a diagnostic performance model that indicates the relationship between evaluation parameters and diagnostic performance, a reasonable range of the evaluation parameters indicated by the diagnostic performance model can be identified as the predetermined range. Such a diagnostic performance model can be directly input from the outside or created based on past scan images and diagnostic data. In other words, the protocol reference plane rendering module 10 as a display control unit identifies the allowable range based on the diagnostic performance model that indicates the relationship between the first index (dose) and diagnostic performance.

FIG. 2 is a graph showing the relationship between evaluation parameters and diagnostic performance. When dose is plotted on the horizontal axis, the trends in diagnostic performance and image quality are shown in FIG. 2. The dose is proportional to the image quality. can be done. However, the relationship between the image quality of a medical image and the diagnostic effect (diagnostic performance) obtained when making a diagnosis using the medical image does not increase proportionally. When the image quality is increased to a certain degree, even if the image quality is further increased, the diagnostic performance in diagnosing still maintains a certain level, and the increase is not large. Therefore, it is possible to select the allowable range in the section where the diagnostic performance is already stable. For example, the range of dose and image quality corresponding to diagnostic performance enclosed by the dashed line in FIG. 2 can be selected as the predetermined range. Note that the diagnostic effect is, for example, the degree of easiness of diagnosis based on the subjectivity of a person (such as a doctor) who browses the medical images. Also, the graph shown in FIG. 2 is an example of a diagnostic performance model.

A protocol reference surface is a surface that indicates the tolerance and is used as a reference standard. The allowable range (predetermined range) of evaluation parameters referred to here is expressed as the entire range of coordinate values of points in a space composed of a plurality of evaluation parameters, and includes change relationships between different evaluation parameters. When two evaluation parameters are selected as dimensions and a two-dimensional space is displayed, the protocol reference reference surface is a surface enclosed by a closed curve consisting of all combinations (coordinate values) of evaluation parameters within the allowable range. is. When representing a multi-dimensional space with three or more evaluation parameters selected as dimensions, the protocol reference plane is a closed surface that encloses all combinations of evaluation parameters within the acceptable range. The closing surface surrounds an enclosed space, and preferably the closing surface is curved.

The protocol reference reference plane rendering module 10 also externally acquires historical examination data including evaluation parameter combinations that have been used in patient examinations in practice, and projects these evaluation parameter combinations into space. Further, in the space, a closed curved surface surrounding all or most of these points indicating historical inspection data may be drawn as the protocol reference reference surface. For example, the protocol reference reference plane rendering module 10 as a display control unit acquires a plurality of past history inspection data related to a predetermined inspection, and sets a range in which the acquired plurality of history inspection data are densely packed to a certain extent or more as an allowable range. may

FIG. 4 shows an example of a space displayed when the imaging planning apparatus 100 adjusts the scan protocol. In the example of FIG. 4, a three-dimensional space was formed with dose, CNR and spatial resolution as dimensions. 4, where the shaded area in FIG. 4 indicates the acceptable predetermined range, and the surface surrounding the shaded area is the protocol reference surface. Combinations of the evaluation parameters dose, CNR and spatial resolution within the acceptable predetermined range are considered acceptable scan protocol scan results. Note that the space shown in FIG. 4 is an example of a relational diagram showing the relation between the first index and the second index. Also, the dose is an example of the first index. Also, the spatial resolution and CNR are examples of the second index. That is, the relational diagram is a space of three or more dimensions including the first index, spatial resolution, and contrast-to-noise ratio.

The scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 predicts evaluation parameters corresponding to the scan protocol and obtains evaluation parameter prediction results. The scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 may be a circuit or software module capable of realizing the above functions.

The scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 can use conventional techniques to obtain prediction results of evaluation parameters corresponding to the scan protocol. For example, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 utilizes statistics of evaluation parameter results obtained by applying different scan protocols when conventional scanning devices of the same type scan, shown in historical data, to predict Get results. The scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 may receive a simulation model created for the same type of scanning device and substitute the scan protocol into the simulation model to obtain prediction results. Also, data input by the operator based on experience may be used as all or part of the evaluation parameters.

The mapping module 30 maps the prediction result of the scan protocol obtained by the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 to the space in which the protocol reference plane exists. The mapping module 30 may be a circuit or software module capable of implementing the above functions.

For example, in the space shown in FIG. 4, the black dots in it indicated the mapping points of the prediction result of each scanning protocol, and the position coordinates of each point indicated the prediction result. The mapped points correspond one by one to the scanning protocol to be evaluated. In it, most of the points fall within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane, and four points do not fall within the closed space bounded by the protocol reference plane.

The evaluation and adjustment module 40 evaluates or adjusts the scan protocol based on the positional relationship between the point indicating the prediction result shown in space and the protocol reference plane. The evaluation adjustment module 40 may be a circuit or software module capable of implementing the above functions.

Specifically, assessment adjustment module 40 determines whether the point representing the predicted result falls within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane, and falls within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane. Evaluate that the scan protocol corresponding to the predicted result is an acceptable scan protocol, and the scan protocol corresponding to the predicted result that is not within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane is an unacceptable scan protocol is evaluated, and the evaluation result is supplied to the scanning device.

The evaluation adjustment module 40 also determines whether the point indicating the predicted result falls within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane, and determines whether the points not falling within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane. is moved within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane, and the scan protocol is adjusted based on the position of the point after movement to adjust the scan protocol to an acceptable scan protocol, and the adjustment result is It may be supplied to a scanning device. The point movement rule can be set arbitrarily.

Also, various conventional methods may be used to adjust the scan protocol. For example, an artificial intelligence protocol tuning model can be used to tune the scan protocol and modify the model through feedback.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an artificial intelligence protocol coordination model. The core model in the artificial intelligence protocol tuning model 310 is the dose and image quality SVR (Support Vector Regression) model indicated at 313 . Predicted dose and image quality, which are adjusted parameters, i.e., CTDvol, CNR, spatial resolution, etc., indicated at 311; By inputting CNR, spatial resolution, etc., both into a dose and image quality SVR (Support Vector Regression) model, the scan parameter differences 315 in the scan protocol are obtained. For example, predicted dose and image quality 311 is information predicted from original dose and image quality 312 based on the patient information being imaged. Also, the original dose and image quality 312 is history information of past imaging or information obtained by simulation or the like. The optimized scan parameters 318 after adjustment are obtained by combining the original scan parameters 314 and the scan parameter differences 315 included in the scan protocol before adjustment.

The optimized scan parameters 318 may also be fed back to a learning engine 317 to learn and utilize the training data 316 to improve the dose and image quality SVR (Support Vector Regression) model 313 . Note that the original scan parameters 314 are, for example, scan parameters preset in the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

In the first embodiment, the protocol reference base plane drawing module 10 corresponds to the "protocol reference base plane drawing unit", the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 corresponds to the "scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction unit", and the mapping module 30 corresponds to Corresponding to the "mapping unit", the evaluation adjustment module 40 corresponds to the "evaluation adjustment unit". The flow of scan protocol adjustment operation in the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing the scan protocol adjustment operation of the imaging planning apparatus in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, when starting the scan protocol adjustment, first, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 acquires a scan protocol, predicts the scan result of the scan protocol, and uses the evaluation parameters corresponding to the scan protocol. A prediction result is obtained (step S501). That is, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 as an acquisition unit, based on the X-ray imaging conditions of the subject set in a predetermined examination, the first value of the first index related to the X-ray dose and the A second value of the second index is obtained. In the example of FIG. 4, the value of the dose predicted based on the X-ray imaging conditions of the subject corresponds to the "first value", and the spatial resolution and spatial resolution predicted based on the X-ray imaging conditions of the subject The value of CNR corresponds to the "second value".

Subsequently, the protocol reference reference plane rendering module 10 obtains an acceptable range (acceptable range) of dose and image quality based on predetermined conditions such as desired image quality and patient information (step S502), and , based on the obtained dose and image quality acceptable range (tolerance), as a reference standard in a three-dimensional space where the three parameters in dose and image quality are displayed as dimensions, for example as shown in FIG. is calculated and drawn (step S503). That is, the protocol reference reference plane drawing module 10 as a display control unit causes the display unit to display a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index. The allowable range of the first index and the second index based on the level information is displayed differently from the range other than the allowable range.

Subsequently, the mapping module 30 maps the scan protocol prediction result obtained by the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 in step S501 to the space in which the protocol reference plane exists (step S504). That is, the mapping module 30 as a display control unit displays marks at positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value.

In step S505, the evaluation adjustment module 40 determines whether or not the mapped point is an abnormal point based on the positional relationship between the point indicating the prediction result mapped by the mapping module 30 and the protocol reference plane. . That is, the evaluation adjustment module 40 as a determination unit determines whether or not the positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value are included in the allowable range. If it is determined that the point indicating the prediction result falls within the allowable range surrounded by the protocol reference plane and is not an abnormal point (step S505: NO), enter step S507, supply the scan protocol to the scanning device, It is called by the scanning device and scanned according to the scanning protocol.

On the other hand, if the point indicating the prediction result does not fall within the allowable range surrounded by the protocol reference plane as indicated by the thick black dots in FIG. 4 and is determined to be an abnormal point (step S505: YES), Entering step S506, the evaluation adjustment module 40 adjusts the scan protocol using, for example, the artificial intelligence protocol adjustment model shown in FIG. Scan according to the scan protocol (step S507).

In the flowchart of FIG. 5, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 first acquires the prediction result of the scan protocol, and then the protocol reference plane rendering module 10 generates the protocol reference plane. However, the order of operations of the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 and the protocol reference reference plane rendering module 10 may be exchanged, ie, step S502 may be performed first, followed by step S501.

Further, in FIG. 5, the mapping module 30 as the display control unit may display the determination result by the determination unit. For example, the mapping module 30 can display information indicating whether the prediction result is an anomaly. The information indicating whether or not the point is an abnormal point may be displayed as text information, or may be displayed graphically by the color, shape, or other accompanying marks of the point indicating the prediction result.

Intuitively determine the locations of points and planes in the created space, according to the present embodiment, by using a protocol reference reference plane to more intuitively display the relationship between dose and image quality in scan results. Abnormalities in the scanning protocol can be found by just one step, the abnormalities in the scanning protocol are intuitively displayed, and it is easy to adjust the scanning protocol.

(Second embodiment)
The second embodiment is based on the first embodiment, and differs from the first embodiment in that, in the second embodiment, the imaging planning apparatus 200 includes a simulation model creation module 50 and a guidance information display module 60. and the evaluation adjustment module 40 further has a reception module 41 . Hereinafter, differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described, and repeated descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging planning apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the imaging planning apparatus 200 includes a protocol reference plane rendering module 10, a scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20, a mapping module 30, an evaluation adjustment module 40, a simulation model creation module 50, a guidance an information display module 60;

The simulation model creation module 50 creates a prediction model for predicting simulation results based on scan parameters and historical data of patient information. The prediction model creation module 50 may be a circuit or software module capable of realizing the above functions.

Various conventional methods may be used as the modeling method used in the predictive model generation module 50 . For example, FIG. 7 showed an example of a prediction model. The predictive model shown in FIG. 7 includes equations developed from historical data and patient information such as scan parameters kV, mA, helical pitch, collimation. When historical data and patient information such as scan parameters kV, mA, helical pitch, collimation, etc. are substituted into the predictive model, dose, spatial resolution and CNR values are obtained. That is, the prediction model creation module 50 creates a prediction model for predicting the first value of the first index and the second value of the second index based on the scan parameters and the history data of the patient information.

The scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 uses the prediction model created by the prediction model creation module 50 to acquire the evaluation parameter corresponding to the scan protocol as a prediction result. That is, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 as an acquisition unit acquires the first value and the second value corresponding to the X-ray imaging conditions as prediction results using the prediction model.

Further, the protocol reference plane rendering module 10 draws a protocol reference plane as a reference standard in a space in which each evaluation parameter is displayed as a dimension based on a predetermined range of evaluation parameters used when evaluating a scan protocol. is calculated and drawn.

The mapping module 30 also maps the scan protocol prediction result obtained by the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 to the space in which the protocol reference plane exists.

The guidance information display module 60 can display guidance information to guide the operator on the display. In particular, when the mapping module 30 maps the prediction results in the space, it displays guidance information for guiding the operator's actions. Guidance information can be superimposed and displayed in space, and can also be displayed independently. The guidance information display module 60 may be a circuit or software module capable of realizing the above functions.

The guidance information may be information that presents the operator that the mapping points of the mapping module 30 can be moved on the display screen by dragging the mouse, but in selecting a scan protocol based on patient information, country, region, etc. It may be a matter to be noted.

For example, when performing a general pediatric chest examination, the following guidance information can be displayed.
"guide:
For general pediatric chest examinations, the area of concern for sick children is small. Therefore, a higher CNR is required. In addition to performing low tube voltage scans, we also propose to reduce the radiation dose based on the CNR index.
Proposed suitable CNR: 12-16 (statistics)
Suggested CTDIvol: 20-30 (ICRP P87 suggests general chest scan)”

In other words, the guidance information display module 60 as a display control unit displays a recommended mark at a recommended position as a destination of movement of the position of the abnormal point, a route mark indicating a movement route to the recommended mark, and an operator in a predetermined examination. can display guidance information including at least one of the matters to which attention should be paid.

Further, when a preferred position in the space is the recommended destination, the guidance information displayed by the guidance information display module 60 on the display may be information about the position of the destination. A recommended destination is presented to the user so that the user can easily move to an appropriate position. For example, the guidance information may be coordinate information regarding the position of the recommended destination.

In addition, the guidance information display module 60 directly indicates the position of the recommended destination in the space. For example, the position of the recommended destination in the space is indicated by a symbol such as an arrow. Marks such as dots can also be applied directly. This makes it possible to more intuitively indicate the location of the recommended destination of the mapping point. For example, the guidance information display module 60 as the display control unit puts a recommended mark on the recommended position recommended as the movement destination of the position when the determination unit determines that the position of the prediction result is not included in the allowable range. display. The recommended position is, for example, coordinate information in the related diagram. For example, the guidance information display module 60 determines the position (point) closest to the abnormal point within the allowable range as the recommended position. Based on the recommended positions, the guidance information display module 60 graphically presents specific positions (recommended positions) within the allowable range using colors, shapes, and other accompanying marks. Note that the method of determining the recommended position is not limited to the above example, and a wide range of known techniques can be applied.

The evaluation adjustment module 40 adjusts the scan protocol based on the spatial relationship between the point indicating the prediction result and the protocol reference plane.

In particular, in the second embodiment, the evaluation adjustment module 40 further includes a reception module 41 that receives a movement operation on the prediction result, and the reception module 41 may be a circuit or software module capable of realizing the above functions.

The operator can move the point mapped in the space by the mapping module 30 to a desired position by dragging the mouse or the like. Therefore, the reception module 41 receives the position of the point after movement. Valuation adjustment module 40 determines whether the point after movement falls within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane. From the calculated scan parameters, if the moved points fall within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane, the scan parameters are back-estimated using the evaluation parameters corresponding to the positions of the moved points. scan protocol to the scanning device. For example, the evaluation adjustment module 40 as an adjustment unit adjusts the X-ray imaging conditions based on the third value of the first index and the fourth value of the second index corresponding to the recommended position. For example, the evaluation adjustment module 40 calculates the X-ray imaging conditions corresponding to the coordinate information of the recommended position by inverse estimation.

Alternatively, the receiving module 41 may receive input from the operator by directly inputting desired scan results using an input device such as a keyboard. Based on the input data received by the reception module 41 , the evaluation adjustment module 40 moves the corresponding point to the position indicated by the input data received by the reception module 41 .

If the post-movement point does not fall within the tolerance bounded by the protocol reference plane, evaluation adjustment module 40 determines that the scan protocol corresponding to the post-movement point is not an acceptable scan protocol. The guidance information display module 60 further displays guidance information prompting the operator to move the point position until the point after movement falls within the allowable range surrounded by the protocol reference plane.

In the second embodiment, the prediction model creation module 50 corresponds to the "prediction model creation section", the guidance information display module 60 corresponds to the "guidance information display section", and the receiving module 41 corresponds to the "receiving section". The flow of scan protocol adjustment operation in the second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the scan protocol adjustment operation of the imaging planning apparatus in the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 8, when starting scan protocol adjustment, the predictive model creation module 50 first creates a predictive model for predicting the predictive result based on the scan parameters and historical patient information data ( step S801).

In addition, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 acquires the scan protocol, substitutes the scan protocol into the prediction model, and acquires the prediction result (step S802).

Subsequently, the protocol reference plane rendering module 10 acquires the dose and image quality tolerances based on predetermined conditions such as the desired image quality and patient information (step S803), and Based on the image quality tolerance, calculate and draw a protocol reference plane as a reference standard in a three-dimensional space where the three parameters in dose and image quality are displayed as dimensions, for example, as shown in FIG. step S804).

Subsequently, the mapping module 30 maps the scan protocol prediction result obtained by the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20 in step S802 to the space in which the protocol reference plane exists (step S805).

In step S806, the evaluation adjustment module 40 determines whether or not the mapped point is an abnormal point based on the positional relationship between the point indicating the prediction result mapped by the mapping module 30 and the protocol reference plane. . If it is determined that the point indicating the prediction result falls within the allowable range surrounded by the protocol reference plane and is not an abnormal point (step S806: NO), step S809 is entered, the scan protocol is supplied to the scanning device, It is called by the scanning device and scanned according to the scanning protocol.

On the other hand, if the point indicating the prediction result does not fall within the allowable range surrounded by the protocol reference plane as indicated by the thick black dots in FIG. 4 and is determined to be an abnormal point (step S806: YES), Entering step S807, the operator uses an input device such as a mouse to drag the abnormal point into the closed space surrounded by the protocol reference surface, or the operator uses an input device such as a keyboard to obtain the desired scan result. directly. In other words, the reception module 41 as an adjustment unit receives an instruction from the operator to move the abnormal point mark displayed on the display unit to an arbitrary position within the allowable range. For example, the receiving module 41 receives instructions from the operator through a predetermined input interface. A predetermined input interface is, for example, any input device such as a mouse or a keyboard.

The evaluation adjustment module 40 adjusts the scan protocol based on the desired scan results obtained (step S808), and supplies the adjusted scan protocol to the scanning device, which is called by the scanning device to scan according to the scanning protocol. (Step S809). In other words, the evaluation adjustment module 40 as an adjustment unit calculates X Adjust line shooting conditions.

Also, in the flowchart of FIG. 8, the execution order of steps S802 and S803 may be changed.

In addition, in this embodiment, by presenting information to the operator using the guidance information display module 60, the operator can more efficiently determine and adjust abnormal points. However, the guidance information display module 60 can be omitted and the operator can operate according to his/her own experience.

According to this embodiment, the operator can intuitively move the abnormal point to a desired position, and the imaging planning apparatus can directly output the corresponding adjusted scan protocol by the moving operation. Scan protocols can be adjusted more conveniently. In addition, it is also possible to intuitively display an abnormality in the scan protocol and easily adjust the scan protocol.

In the second embodiment, the case where the recommended mark indicating the position of the recommended destination is displayed together with the abnormal point mark has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the imaging planning apparatus may display recommended marks without displaying abnormal point marks. That is, in the imaging planning apparatus, the obtaining unit obtains the first value of the first index related to the X-ray dose and the second index related to the image quality based on the X-ray imaging conditions of the subject set in the predetermined examination. Obtain a second value. The display control unit displays a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index, and displays the first index and the second index based on information related to the diagnostic reference level corresponding to the predetermined examination in the association diagram. display the allowable range of The determination unit determines whether or not positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value are within the allowable range. The display control unit displays a mark at a recommended position to which the position of the abnormal point is to be moved when the determination unit determines that the position of the abnormal point is not included in the allowable range.

(Third embodiment)
The imaging planning apparatus of the present invention can be applied to a scan management system comprising medical scanning equipment and a scan protocol management server. For example, the imaging planning apparatus can be applied to a CT scan protocol management system (CT Protocol Management: PM). A combination of the imaging planning apparatus and the CT scan protocol management system will be described below with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of the CT scan protocol management system in the third embodiment. The CT scan protocol management system comprises a scan protocol management server 1 and a plurality of CT scan devices 2 of the same type. Here, in order to simplify the explanation, a case where there are two CT scan apparatuses 2 (CT-A and CT-A') will be explained as an example. In this embodiment, the imaging planning apparatus is installed in the scan protocol management server 1 (medical information management server).

As shown in FIG. 9, the scan protocol management server 1 can remotely communicate with the CT scanning device 2 via radio. Assuming that the scan protocol is created or corrected in the CT scan apparatus CT-A, the CT scan apparatus CT-A transmits a new scan protocol to the scan protocol management server 1. FIG.

On the other hand, the scan protocol management server 1 examines and permits scan protocols. Specifically, the scan protocol management server 1 performs dose and image quality analysis, identifies abnormal points, adjusts parameters, and implements scan protocols as described in the first and second embodiments above. Evaluate or adjust and broadcast the adjusted (accepted) scan protocol to the two CT scanning devices 2 (CT-A and CT-A'). This enables the CT scanning apparatus CT-A to perform scanning using the adjusted scanning protocol. Moreover, the CT scanning apparatus CT-A' can also perform scanning using the adjusted scanning protocol.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart of the scan protocol management process of the CT scan protocol management system in the third embodiment. After the CT scan apparatus CT-A creates the scan protocol, first, in step S1001, it transmits the scan protocol to the scan protocol management server 1 and requests examination of the protocol. Also, in order to help the scan protocol management server 1 create a prediction model, etc., the inspection image and the dose data may be transmitted together.

Subsequently, the scan protocol management server 1 displays the protocol reference surface and the prediction result of the scan protocol for the viewer to browse (step S1002), and the scan protocol management server 1 displays the protocol reference surface. Using this, anomalous points are sorted (step S1003). If it is determined that there is no abnormal point in the space (step S1004: NO), the scan protocol management server 1 permits the scan protocol and broadcasts the scan protocol to all CT scan apparatuses (step S1006: NO). Send.

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is an abnormal point in the space (step S1004: YES), the scan protocol management server 1 proceeds to step S1005 and adjusts the scan parameters until there is no abnormal point. Subsequently, the adjusted scan protocol is permitted, and the scan protocol is published to all CT scan apparatuses (step S1006). According to the present embodiment, a remote server is used to perform unified control over scan protocols, and scan devices of the same type acquire appropriate scan protocols from the scan protocol management server without creating scan protocols. can be applied as This can improve the management performance of the entire CT scan protocol management system. In addition, when the scan protocol management server authorizes and adjusts the scan protocol, it can more intuitively search for anomalies, thereby improving the efficiency of protocol review.

That is, the scan protocol management server 1 receives the X-ray imaging conditions from the medical image diagnostic apparatus, and transmits the X-ray imaging conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit to the medical image diagnostic apparatus or other medical image diagnostic apparatus. In the third embodiment, the case where the medical image diagnostic apparatus (CT-A) and the other medical image diagnostic apparatus (CT-A') are of the same type (model, model) has been described. It is not limited to this. For example, if the types are different from each other, the X-ray imaging conditions can be mutually converted using a "conversion table" to be described later. Note that the conversion table may be provided in the medical image diagnostic apparatus, or may be provided in the medical information management server.

(Fourth embodiment)
The exposure planning apparatus of the present invention can also be implemented on local scanning devices to provide local scan protocol adjustments. Another example of a combination of an imaging planning apparatus and a CT scan protocol management system will be described below with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of the CT scan protocol management system in the fourth embodiment. The CT scan protocol management system includes a scan protocol management server 1 and a plurality of CT scan devices 2 of different types. Here, in order to simplify the explanation, a case where there are two CT scan apparatuses 2 (CT-A and CT-B') will be explained as an example. In this embodiment, the imaging planning device is installed in the CT scanning device CT-B'.

As shown in FIG. 11, the scan protocol management server 1 can remotely communicate with the CT scanning device 2 via radio. Assuming that the scan protocol is created or corrected in the CT scan apparatus CT-A, the CT scan apparatus CT-A transmits a new scan protocol to the scan protocol management server 1. FIG.

On the other hand, the scan protocol management server 1 examines and authorizes scan protocols, and broadcasts the approved scan protocols to all CT scanners. Any method may be used in the scan protocol examination of the scan protocol management server 1 .

Upon receiving the scan protocol, the CT scan apparatus CT-B' converts the received scan protocol into a scan protocol (scan parameters) applicable to its own type, and evaluates and adjusts the converted scan protocol. Specifically, the CT scanning apparatus CT-B' performs dose and image quality analysis, identifies abnormal points, adjusts parameters, and scans as described in the first and second embodiments above. Applying the adjusted scan protocol by evaluating or adjusting the protocol.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart of the scan protocol management process of the CT scan protocol management system in the fourth embodiment. After the scan protocol management server 1 permits the scan protocol, first, in step S1201, the permitted scan protocol is transmitted to each CT scanner.

Subsequently, the CT scanning apparatus CT-B′ converts the received scan protocol into a scan protocol applicable to its model (step S1202), and uses the converted scan parameters to predict image quality and dose. A result is calculated (step S1203), and abnormal points are sorted using the protocol reference standard surface (step S1204). In other words, when the CT scan apparatus CT-B' as a medical image diagnostic apparatus receives the X-ray imaging conditions from the medical information management server, it converts the received X-ray imaging conditions into the X-ray imaging conditions adapted to its model. Convert. Then, the CT scan apparatus CT-B' executes each process of the above-described imaging planning apparatus based on the converted X-ray imaging conditions.

If it is determined that there is no abnormal point in the space (step S1205: NO), step S1207 is entered and the CT scan apparatus CT-B' applies the scan protocol.

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is an abnormal point in the space (step S1205: YES), step S1206 is entered and the CT scanner CT-B' adjusts the scan parameters until there is no abnormal point. Subsequently, the CT scanning device CT-B' applies the scanning protocol (step S1207).

According to this embodiment, the local scanning device can adjust the converted scanning protocol to suit its own scanning device. As a result, it is possible to improve the management performance of a CT scan protocol management system in which scanning apparatuses of different types are mixed. In addition, when the CT scanning apparatus CT-B' adjusts the scan protocol, abnormalities can be found more intuitively, thereby improving the efficiency of protocol review.

In order to mutually convert scan protocols between different types, a conversion table in which the parameters of the scan protocols are associated with each other is used. For example, the CT scanning device CT-B' is provided with a conversion table, and based on the conversion table, converts the scanning protocol applied to the CT scanning device CT-A into the scanning protocol applicable to its type.

In the fourth embodiment, each CT scanner has a conversion table, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the conversion table may be provided in the scan protocol management server 1 instead of the CT scan device. In this case, the scan protocol management server 1 converts the X-ray imaging conditions adjusted by the adjusting unit into X-ray imaging conditions adapted to the model of the destination medical image diagnostic apparatus, and converts the X-ray imaging conditions after conversion to , to the destination medical image diagnostic apparatus.

In the description of the first and second embodiments above, each component of each device shown in the drawings is a functional conceptual component, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the drawings. do not have. That is, the specific method of distributing and matching each device is not limited to the illustration. Can be configured. In addition, all or any part of each processing function performed by each device is realized by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or is implemented by wired logic implemented as hardware based on

That is, the shooting planning apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 is configured by the information processing apparatus 400 shown in FIG. The information processing device 400 corresponds to a device (medical information processing device) capable of processing medical information, such as a personal computer, a workstation, or a console device of a medical image diagnostic device.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing apparatus 400. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, for example, information processing device 400 includes input interface 401 , display 402 , storage circuitry 410 , and processing circuitry 420 . The input interface 401, the display 402, the storage circuit 410, and the processing circuit 420 are communicably connected to each other.

The input interface 401 has a mouse, keyboard, buttons, panel switches, touch command screen, foot switch, trackball, joystick, etc., and receives various instructions and setting requests from the operator of the information processing apparatus 400 . The input interface 401 outputs various received instructions and setting requests to the processing circuit 420 .

A display 402 displays medical image data captured by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, and displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for the user to input various setting requests using the input interface 401 .

The storage circuit 410 is implemented by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory device such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. For example, the storage circuit 410 stores medical image data obtained from a medical image diagnostic apparatus. Further, for example, the storage circuit 410 stores a program for the circuit included in the information processing device 400 to realize its function.

The processing circuit 420 controls the entire processing of the information processing device 400 . For example, processing circuitry 420 includes proto-protocol reference reference surface rendering module 10, scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20, mapping module 30, and evaluation adjustment module 40 shown in FIG. Each processing function executed by the proto-protocol reference reference plane drawing module 10, the scan protocol evaluation parameter prediction module 20, the mapping module 30, and the evaluation adjustment module 40 is recorded in a storage circuit in the form of a computer-executable program. . The processing circuit is a processor that reads out each program from the storage circuit and executes it, thereby realizing functions corresponding to each program. In other words, the processing circuit with each program read has each function shown in the imaging planning apparatus 100 in FIG.

In this embodiment, each processing function may be realized by a single processing circuit, or a processing circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to perform the function. may be realized.

The term "processor" used in the above description is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., Circuits such as Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs stored in the memory circuit. Note that instead of storing the program in the memory circuit 110, the program may be configured to be directly installed in the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. Note that each processor of the present embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, and may be configured as one processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize its function. good. Furthermore, a plurality of components in each figure may be integrated into one processor to realize its function.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the imaging planning apparatus can be realized by a computer such as a personal computer or workstation having a processor and memory. In this case, a program for each module capable of realizing the imaging planning apparatus is stored in the memory, and the program is called by the processor to realize the imaging planning apparatus.

The program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. The program can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, flexible disk (FD), CD-ROM, MO, DVD, etc., and can be read from the recording medium and executed by a computer.

While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments or variations thereof fall within the scope or spirit of the invention, as well as the claimed invention and equivalents thereof.

1 Scan Protocol Management Server 2 CT Scan Apparatus 100, 200 Imaging Planning Apparatus 10 Protocol Reference Plane Drawing Module 20 Scan Protocol Evaluation Parameter Prediction Module 30 Mapping Module 40 Evaluation Adjustment Module 50 Simulation Model Creation Module 60 Guidance Information Display Module 41 Acceptance Module 310 Artificial intelligence protocol coordination model

Claims (22)

an acquisition unit that acquires a first value of a first index related to X-ray dose and a second value of a second index related to image quality based on X-ray imaging conditions of a subject set in a predetermined examination;
causing the display unit to display a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index; a display control unit that displays the allowable range of the second index differently from the range other than the allowable range, and further displays a mark at a position in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value;
A photography planning device comprising: the second index is spatial resolution and contrast-to-noise ratio;
The photography planning device according to claim 1 . The X-ray imaging conditions include at least one of tube current, tube voltage, helical pitch, imaging range, imaging time, and slice thickness.
The imaging planning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. further comprising a determination unit that determines whether positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value are included in the allowable range;
The display control unit displays the determination result by the determination unit,
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The display control unit displays a recommended mark at a recommended position recommended as a movement destination of the position when the determination unit determines that the position is not included in the allowable range.
The shooting planning device according to claim 4. The recommended position is coordinate information in the related diagram,
The photography planning device according to claim 5 . The display control unit graphically presents a specific position within the allowable range based on the recommended position.
7. The imaging planning apparatus according to claim 5 or 6. further comprising an adjustment unit that adjusts the X-ray imaging conditions based on a third value of the first index and a fourth value of the second index corresponding to the recommended position;
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 5 to 7. receiving an instruction from an operator to move the mark displayed on the display unit to an arbitrary position within the allowable range; Further comprising an adjustment unit that adjusts the X-ray imaging conditions based on the sixth value of the index,
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The display control unit identifies the allowable range based on a diagnostic performance model that indicates the relationship between the first index and diagnostic performance.
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The related diagram is a space of three or more dimensions including the first index, the spatial resolution, and the contrast-to-noise ratio.
The shooting planning device according to claim 2. The display control unit acquires a plurality of past history inspection data related to the predetermined inspection, and sets a range in which the acquired plurality of history inspection data are densely packed by a certain amount or more as the allowable range.
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. the adjustment unit receives the instruction from the operator through a predetermined input interface;
The shooting planning device according to claim 9 . The display control unit includes at least a recommended mark at a recommended position recommended as a destination of the position, a route mark indicating a moving route to the recommended mark, and matters to be noted by the operator in the predetermined inspection. to display guidance information including one,
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 13. The imaging planning device is provided in a medical image diagnostic device or a medical information management server,
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 14. further comprising a prediction model creation unit that creates a prediction model for predicting the first value and the second value based on scan parameters and history data of patient information;
The acquisition unit uses the prediction model to acquire the first value and the second value corresponding to the X-ray imaging conditions as prediction results.
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 15. The imaging planning device is provided in a medical information management server,
The medical information management server receives the X-ray imaging conditions from the medical image diagnostic apparatus, and transmits the X-ray imaging conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit to the medical image diagnostic apparatus or another medical image diagnostic apparatus. ,
The shooting planning device according to claim 8 or 9. The medical information management server converts the X-ray imaging conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit into X-ray imaging conditions adapted to the model of the destination medical image diagnostic apparatus, and converts the X-ray imaging conditions after conversion into the Send to the destination medical image diagnosis device,
The shooting planning device according to claim 17. The imaging planning device is provided in a medical image diagnostic device,
When the medical image diagnostic apparatus receives X-ray imaging conditions from the medical information management server, it converts the received X-ray imaging conditions into X-ray imaging conditions adapted to its model,
The imaging planning device executes the processing of the acquisition unit and the display control unit based on the converted X-ray imaging conditions.
The shooting planning device according to any one of claims 1 to 16. obtaining a first value of a first index related to X-ray dose and a second value of a second index related to image quality based on X-ray imaging conditions of a subject set in a predetermined examination;
causing the display unit to display a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index; displaying the allowable range of the second index differently from the range other than the allowable range, and further displaying marks at positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value;
A method of planning a shoot, including: an acquisition unit that acquires a first value of a first index related to X-ray dose and a second value of a second index related to image quality based on X-ray imaging conditions of a subject set in a predetermined examination;
displaying a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index, and displaying the first index and the second index based on information related to the diagnostic reference level corresponding to the predetermined examination in the association diagram A display control unit that displays the allowable range of
a determination unit that determines whether positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value are included in the allowable range,
When the determination unit determines that the position is not included in the allowable range, the display control unit displays a mark at a recommended position recommended as a movement destination of the position.
Shooting planning device. obtaining a first value of a first index related to X-ray dose and a second value of a second index related to image quality based on X-ray imaging conditions of a subject set in a predetermined examination;
displaying a relationship diagram showing the relationship between the first index and the second index, and displaying the first index and the second index based on information related to the diagnostic reference level corresponding to the predetermined examination in the association diagram display the allowable range different from the range other than the allowable range,
determining whether positions in the related diagram corresponding to the first value and the second value are included in the allowable range;
When it is determined that the position is not included in the allowable range, displaying a mark at a recommended position recommended as a destination of the position.
A method of planning a shoot, including:

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