JP2008212184A - Medical diagnostic imaging equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique for improving the operability of a medical image diagnostic apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is used for a routine inspection comprising a series of predetermined processes. A list storage section 6 of the apparatus 1 stores a list L of the IDs, or the like of patients waiting for inspection. The operator clicks a button "Next" 1400A on an image observation display 1400 by operating an operation section 7B after printing image. The controller 9 refers to the patient list L and determines whether there is a next patient for inspection. When there is, the controller 9 displays an imaging position determining operation display 1200 for the inspection of the next patient. When there is not, the controller 9 displays an image transfer display 1500 and transfers the image to an outside device 400. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus for imaging a form and function in a subject.

  The medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus, a PET (Positive Emission Computed Tomography) apparatus, and a SPECT (Temtostimulated Emission Stomography Emission). Conventionally, an apparatus, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and the like are used.

  In recent years, standardization of examinations by medical image diagnostic apparatuses has been promoted. In other words, the standardization of inspection has been attempted by setting a series of processes to be performed in each inspection in advance. Such inspection is called “routine inspection” or the like. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for reducing the burden on an operator and improving throughput in routine inspection.

  In general, various soft keys are provided on the operation screen of the medical image diagnostic apparatus. The operator moves to the next procedure by operating (clicking) an appropriate soft key.

  The routine inspection is an inspection performed according to a predetermined procedure as described above. In view of such special characteristics, a technique for automatically moving a pointer on a soft key for moving to the next procedure in response to the completion of a certain procedure on the routine inspection operation screen Has been developed. Such a technique is disclosed in Patent Document 2, for example.

Japanese Patent No. 3499248 JP-A-9-244852

  By the way, at the operation site of the medical image diagnostic apparatus, a list is created by issuing an order (reservation) of a patient to be examined, and a plurality of patients are sequentially examined based on this list. There are many.

  In this case, the work contents to be performed next may change depending on the situation such as the presence or absence of the next order. For example, if there is a next order, the inspection proceeds to the inspection based on the next order when the inspection based on the currently executed order is completed. On the other hand, if the next order does not exist, the captured image is transferred to another device. Work may be expanded to transfer to (image database, image viewer, etc.).

  However, in the conventional medical image diagnostic apparatus, since the operation screen and the pointer could not be controlled according to the order issuance state, the operation is complicated, for example, a different operation must be performed depending on the presence / absence of the next order. Met. Further, when an operation is performed without grasping the presence / absence of an order, it is necessary to perform the operation again, which is troublesome.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a technique capable of improving the operability of a medical image diagnostic apparatus.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention executes a series of processes including a process of acquiring data reflecting the form or function of the body of a subject and a process of generating an image based on the acquired data A medical image diagnostic apparatus for storing schedule information indicating presence / absence of a subject to be subjected to the series of processes, and a plurality of operation screens for performing an operation for executing the series of processes And a display means for displaying the operation, and an operation for performing an operation for executing the next series of processes when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation means after completion of one series of processes. Control means for selecting a screen from the plurality of operation screens based on the schedule information and displaying the screen on the display means.

  A medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention is a device that executes a series of processes including a process of acquiring data reflecting a form or function in a body of a subject and a process of generating an image based on the acquired data It is. This medical image diagnostic apparatus stores schedule information indicating the presence or absence of a subject to be subjected to a series of processes. The control means selects one of the plurality of operation screens based on the schedule information in order to execute the next series of processes in response to the predetermined operation being performed after the series of processes is completed. Display on the display means.

  According to such a medical image diagnostic apparatus, since the operation screen can be selectively displayed according to the presence or absence of the next subject (patient, order), the operator considers the presence or absence of the next patient. There is no need to use different operations. Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability of the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

  An example of a preferred embodiment of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention images the form and function of a subject, such as an MRI apparatus, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, an X-ray CT apparatus, a PET apparatus, a SPECT apparatus, and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. It is a device having a function.

[Constitution]
FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 shown in the figure is connected to each of the RIS 200, the imager 300, and the external apparatus 400 so as to be communicable. These devices are connected by a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a dedicated line constructed in a medical institution, for example.

  The RIS (Radiology Information System) 200 is a system that manages various types of information used in the radiology department of a medical institution. In particular, the RIS 200 receives and manages orders from the order terminal 100 such as a doctor terminal.

  The order means a reservation for performing an examination using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 or the like. The order is performed by inputting predetermined order information from the order terminal 100 and transmitting it to the RIS 200. The order information is information including patient identification information such as a patient ID and a patient name, identification information of an examination apparatus, examination contents (examination part, examination method, and the like). For example, the RIS 200 manages order information for each patient.

  The imager 300 is an apparatus that prints out an image generated by the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. As the imager 300, for example, a general apparatus such as a dry type or a wet type laser imager can be used.

  The external apparatus 400 is an apparatus other than the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and is an apparatus that receives information transmitted from the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. As an example of the external device 400, a computer terminal such as a viewer for image interpretation, an image database of PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), and the like, which can communicate with the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 via the above-mentioned network There is a device.

  The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a data collection unit 2, an image generation unit 3, an image storage unit 4, an order reception unit 5, a list storage unit 6, a user interface 7, a communication unit 8, and a control unit 9. . Hereinafter, each of these components will be described. The control unit 9 will be described as appropriate during the description of other components.

(Data collection part)
The data collection unit 2 acquires data reflecting the form and function of the body of the subject (patient). Under the control of the control unit 9, the data collection unit 2 collects data reflecting the form and function of the subject in the body.

  For example, when the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is an MRI apparatus, the data collection unit 2 includes a bed apparatus on which a subject is placed, a gantry including a static magnetic field magnet and a gradient magnetic field coil, an RF (Radio Frequency) coil, and these It is comprised including the apparatus which drives and controls a magnet and a coil.

  Further, when the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is an X-ray CT apparatus, the data collection unit 2 drives the bed apparatus, the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector, the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector that are arranged to face each other. It includes a gantry equipped with a mechanism, a DAS (Data Acquisition System) that collects detection results by an X-ray detector, and the like. The same configuration is applied when the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is a PET apparatus or a SPECT apparatus.

  Further, when the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, the means for acquiring data reflecting the in-vivo form and function includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector held at opposite positions by an arm or the like. Is done. Further, when the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, the means includes an ultrasonic probe that is in contact with a subject and transmits / receives ultrasonic waves.

(Image generator)
The image generation unit 3 generates an image (image data) based on the data collected by the data collection unit 2. In the present specification, image data and an image (display image) based on the image data may be identified with each other.

  The image generation unit 3 in the MRI apparatus includes a dedicated board and a microprocessor that execute image reconstruction processing such as a two-dimensional / three-dimensional Fourier transform method.

  The image generation unit 3 in the X-ray CT apparatus includes a dedicated board and a microprocessor that execute image reconstruction processing such as a two-dimensional Fourier transform method and a convolution / back projection method. Note that the image generation unit 3 may perform a predetermined pre-process before executing the image reconstruction process.

  When the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is another apparatus, the image generation unit 3 generates an image of the subject by any commonly used method.

(Image storage unit)
The image storage unit 4 is a storage device that stores the image (image data) generated by the image generation unit 3. The image storage unit 4 is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk drive. The image generated by the image generation unit 3 is stored as an image file Fi created for each patient.

  The image file Fi is formed, for example, as a Study file, a Series file, or an Image file in DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine), which is a standard for digital medical images.

(Order reception department)
The order receiving unit 5 receives order information about an examination using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 among the order information managed by the RIS 200. The order receiving unit 5 includes a network adapter such as a LAN card, for example. The order receiving unit 5 inputs the received order information to the control unit 9.

  The order receiving unit 5 is controlled by the control unit 9 to receive the order information at an appropriate timing. For example, the control unit 9 controls the order receiving unit 5 to periodically receive order information. Further, the control unit 9 controls the order receiving unit 5 so as to receive the order information every time the order information of the examination by the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is registered in the RIS 200.

(List storage)
The list control unit 9B of the control unit 9 creates a list of patients (patient list L) to be examined by the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 based on the order information input from the order receiving unit 5, as will be described later. It is stored in the list storage unit 6. The list storage unit 6 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive or a RAM (Random Access Memory) that stores the patient list L.

  The patient list L is a list of patient identification information such as patient IDs and patient names. In addition, in the patient list L, the details of the examination to be performed (imaging technique, imaging region, imaging conditions, etc.) may be recorded for each patient.

  Here, the process of creating the patient list L by the list control unit 9B will be described. In response to the input of new order information from the order receiving unit 5, the list control unit 9B adds the patient indicated in the new order information to the current patient list L and sequentially updates the patient list L. .

  Further, the list control unit 9B deletes the patient from the patient list L in response to the completion of the examination on the patient recorded in the patient list L. Here, the end of the examination can be determined by, for example, the completion of data collection by the data collection unit 2 or the storage of the image file Fi in the image storage unit 4. In this way, the patient list L is configured as a list of patients who have not yet been examined (that is, patients who are waiting for examination).

  In addition, instead of deleting the patient who has performed the examination from the list, information indicating that the examination has been performed may be added to the patient identification information of the patient. It is also possible to add information indicating that the examination is waiting to the patient identification information or the like and delete the information in response to the completion of the examination. In any case, the form of the patient list L is arbitrary as long as the patient list L records the patient waiting for the examination in a distinguishable manner.

(Specific example of patient list)
Here, a specific example of the patient list L shown in FIG. 2 will be described. The patient list L shown in the figure is a list of patient IDs and patient names of patients waiting for examination in accordance with the examination order.

  When the examination on the patient with the examination order “1” in the patient list L is completed, the list control unit 9B deletes information about the patient from the list and the examination order “i (≧ 2) after the examination order“ 2 ”. The information about the patient “1” is moved up one by one and changed to the examination order “i−1”. The list control unit 9B manages patients waiting for the examination in this way.

  When the examination is performed on the patient with the examination order “1” in FIG. 2 (the patient with the patient ID “11111”) and an image is acquired, the control unit 9 associates with the patient ID and the patient name of the patient. F1 is created and stored in the image storage unit 4. In this way, image files F1, F2, F3,... Are obtained.

  When an examination for an emergency patient is requested, the examination may be performed without observing the examination order shown in the patient list L (interrupt examination). In that case, the information about the patient who performed the examination (the examination order “j”) is deleted from the list, and the examination order (“j + 1”, “j + 2”,. ) Information about the patients in (1). In addition, there is a case where information of a patient who performs an interruption test is not recorded in the patient list L, but in this case, it is not necessary to perform a process related to the patient list L.

  The patient list L corresponds to an example of “schedule information” of the present invention. The list storage unit 6 corresponds to an example of “storage means” of the present invention. As the schedule information of the present invention, in addition to the patient list L, it is possible to use arbitrary information indicating the presence / absence of a subject to be examined by the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 (routine examination). For example, a flag that indicates the presence or absence of a subject scheduled to be examined, information that records only information about the next patient, and the like can be used as schedule information.

(User interface)
The user interface 7 has functions for presenting various types of information to the operator and inputting instructions from the operator to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The user interface 7 is provided with a display unit 7A and an operation unit 7B.

  The display unit 7A includes an arbitrary display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. Under the control of the control unit 9, the display unit 7A displays information such as various screens and images. The display unit 7A functions as an example of the “display unit” of the present invention.

  The operation unit 7B includes a pointing device such as a mouse, a trackball, and a joystick. The operation unit 7B is provided with an arbitrary input device or operation device such as a keyboard or a control panel. When the operation unit 7B is operated, an operation signal corresponding to the operation content is input to the control unit 9. The control unit 9 controls each unit of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 based on this operation signal, and executes an operation corresponding to the operation content. The operation unit 7B functions as an example of the “operation means” of the present invention.

  The operator can add a new patient to the patient list L by using the user interface 7. For example, when a new patient comes to the examination room, the operator operates the operation unit 7B to input the patient ID of the patient on a predetermined patient addition screen. In response to this, the control unit 9 controls the order receiving unit 5 to acquire the order information of the patient from the RIS 200. The list control unit 9B adds information such as the patient ID of the patient to the patient list L based on the order information acquired from the RIS 200 and the input information. At this time, the information regarding the patient is added to the end of the patient list L, for example. It is also possible to specify an arbitrary examination order in the patient list L and add information on the patient.

  Further, for example, when a reexamination is performed on a patient who has already been inspected, the operator operates the operation unit 7B to input information such as the patient ID of the patient on the patient addition screen. The list control unit 9B updates the patient list L based on the input information. At this time, information regarding the patient may be added to the end of the patient list L, or may be added by specifying an arbitrary examination order.

  Further, the operator can delete the patient (order information) recorded in the patient list L by manual input operation. In addition, the examination order of patients waiting for examination can be changed by a manual input operation. These processes are executed by the list controller 9B based on the contents of the manual input operation.

(Communication Department)
The communication unit 8 performs data communication with an external device such as the imager 300 or the external device 400, and includes a network adapter such as a LAN card. The communication unit 8 functions as an example of the “transmission unit” of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, the order receiving unit 5 and the communication unit 8 are described separately. However, since both have a communication function, they can be configured integrally.

(Control part)
The control unit 9 controls each unit of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The control unit 9 performs a data writing process on the image storage unit 4 and the list storage unit 6. In addition, the control unit 9 performs a process of reading data stored in the image storage unit 4 or the list storage unit 6. Further, the control unit 9 operates to selectively display various display screens on the display unit 7A, and functions as an example of the “control unit” of the present invention.

  The control unit 9 includes a display control unit 9A, a list control unit 9B, and a patient determination unit 9C. Since the list control unit 9B has been described above, the display control unit 9A and the patient determination unit 9C will be described below.

  The display control unit 9A displays various display screens and images on the display unit 7A. In particular, the display control unit 9A causes the display unit 7A to display various display screens for performing a routine examination using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1.

  Each display screen is provided with an operation area for performing various operations in an examination using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. Examples of the operation area include a soft key, a selection menu (such as a pull-down menu), and an input space. These display screens correspond to an example of the “operation screen” of the present invention.

  The display control unit 9A further controls the display position of the pointer on the display screen. The control of the display position of the pointer may be performed according to an operation on the operation unit 7B, or may be automatically performed without receiving such an operation (described later).

  Here, the pointer is an image that moves on the display screen in response to an operation on the pointing device of the operation unit 7B. The pointer is composed of, for example, an arrow-shaped image.

  The operator performs a desired operation by putting a pointer on a desired one of displayed soft keys and images and performing a predetermined operation (click, double click, drag, etc.). The pointer is also called a cursor or the like. The pointer can also be configured to be operated using a keyboard or the like, for example.

  Next, the patient determination unit 9C will be described. Based on the patient list L, the patient determination unit 9C determines whether or not there is a patient who is waiting for an examination, that is, a patient who has not yet acquired data reflecting the body form and function.

  A specific example of the function of the patient determination unit 9C will be described with reference to the patient list L in FIG. The state where there is a patient whose data has not been collected corresponds to a state where the patient ID and the patient name are recorded in at least the column of the examination order “1” in the patient list L. On the other hand, a state where there is no patient whose data has not been collected corresponds to a state where no patient ID or patient name is recorded in the column of the examination order “1”.

  By using such a relationship, the patient determination unit 9C confirms whether or not the patient ID or the like is recorded in the column of the examination order “1” of the patient list L, and data is not collected. Determine the presence or absence of a patient. Note that the determination of the presence or absence of a patient waiting for an examination may be performed using any determination method other than the above.

  The control unit 9 having the above functions includes a microprocessor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM, a hard disk drive, and the like. Various processes by the control unit 9 are executed by the microprocessor developing a computer program stored in advance in the hard disk drive on the RAM.

[Usage form]
A usage pattern of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The flowchart shown in FIG. 3 represents an example of a usage pattern of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. 4 to 11 show examples of screens displayed on the display unit 7A. Hereinafter, when the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is an MRI apparatus, the outline of the usage pattern shown in FIG. 3 will be described first, and then the details of each step will be described.

[Summary of usage pattern]
First, an operator (radiologist, etc.) makes a patient reservation (S1). As a result, the current patient list L is created.

  Next, the first patient, that is, the patient whose examination order is “1” in the patient list L is placed at a predetermined examination position of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 (for example, on the top plate of the bed apparatus). Then, preliminary imaging for determining the imaging position is performed (S2). This preliminary imaging may be referred to as pilot scanning.

  The operator refers to the image obtained by the pilot scan and determines the imaging position (S3). Thereby, a scan range, a slice position, etc. are determined as an imaging position. When the imaging position is determined, the main imaging is performed (S4). The operator or doctor observes the captured image (S5). The operator performs imaging again as necessary. Further, the photographed image is printed (S6). This completes the examination for the patient, that is, the examination based on the order information. The processes shown in steps 2 to 6 are examples of the “series of processes” of the present invention.

  When printing of the image is completed, the operator operates the operation unit 7B to perform a predetermined operation (S7). In this embodiment, as a predetermined operation, a Next button described later is clicked.

  In response to the predetermined operation, the patient determination unit 9C determines whether there is a next patient (order information) (S8). When it is determined that there is no next patient (S8; N), the image is transferred to the external device 400 (S9), and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the next patient exists (S8; Y), the process proceeds to the examination for the patient. That is, the patient is placed at the examination position and a pilot scan is performed (S2). Thereafter, the same processing is executed for the patient. The above process is repeated until it is determined as “N” in Step 8. If “N” is determined in step 8, the image is transferred to the external device 400 in the same manner as described above (S9), and the process is terminated.

[Details of each step]
(Step 1)
In step 1 (S1), a patient reservation is performed. The patient reservation is a reservation for performing an examination using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 for a certain patient. In other words, patient reservation is a process for additionally registering a new patient (order information) in the patient list L.

  The patient reservation is performed, for example, when the operator inputs patient information such as a patient ID using the user interface 7. Note that it may be configured to automatically execute the patient reservation or the creation of the patient list L based on the order information managed by the RIS 200.

  A specific example of the patient reservation process will be described. 4 and 5 show display screens used for patient reservation. The operator first performs a predetermined operation to display the patient reservation screen 1000 shown in FIG. 4 on the display unit 7A. Next, the operator operates the operation unit 7B and clicks the new patient registration button 1003 to instruct the start of a new patient registration process (reservation process).

  Next, the operator inputs patient information into the patient information input unit 1002 and clicks a registration button 1004. Further, the operator operates the network menu button 1005 to designate “Receive (DICOM)”. The network menu button 1005 is configured by a pull-down menu, for example. In response to the designation of “Receive (DICOM)”, the display control section 9A pops up the search key setting screen 1100 shown in FIG.

  The operator inputs a search key (keyword) such as a patient ID in the input space on the search key setting screen 1100 and clicks a search button 1101. The control unit 9 controls the order receiving unit 5 to cause the RIS 200 to transmit a signal including the input search key. Also, the display control unit 9A ends the display of the search key setting screen 1100.

  When receiving the signal from the order receiving unit 5, the RIS 200 searches for the order information corresponding to the search key and transmits the search result to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. The order receiving unit 5 receives the order information transmitted from the RIS 200 and sends it to the list control unit 9B.

  The list control unit 9B creates the patient list L based on the patient information input by the operator and the order information transmitted from the RIS 200. When a patient (order information) is already registered in the patient list L, the newly registered patient is additionally registered at the end of the list after the last examination in the list before the new registration, that is, at the end of the list.

  The display control unit 9A displays the patient list L including the newly registered patient on the patient list display unit 1001 of the patient reservation screen 1000. The operator selects and designates a patient to be examined from the displayed patient list L. This designation operation is performed by, for example, clicking information on a desired patient.

  Further, the operator clicks the selection button 1006 to confirm the patient designation result. When the selection button 1006 is clicked, the display control unit 9A displays an imaging position determination operation screen 1200 shown in FIG. The imaging position determination operation screen 1200 will be described later.

  If the order information corresponding to the search key input by the operator is not searched, for example, the following processing is executed. First, the RIS 200 transmits a signal indicating that the order information has not been searched to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. Based on this signal, the display control unit 9A causes the display unit 7A to display a dialog including a message indicating that the order information has not been retrieved. Above, description of the patient reservation of step 1 is complete | finished.

(Step 2)
In step 2 (S2), a pilot scan for determining the imaging position is performed as the first process of the routine inspection. Various operations related to the pilot scan are performed using an imaging position determination operation screen 1200 shown in FIG.

  In the examination part display unit 1201 of the imaging position determination operation screen 1200, various examination parts are displayed so as to be selectable. More specifically, an image representing the outline of the human body is displayed on the examination part display unit 1201. Further, on this human body image, rectangular images (partial images showing various parts of the human body) are displayed. ) 1201a is displayed in a superimposed manner.

  Examples of the human body part indicated by the part image 1201a include the head, neck, chest, abdomen, buttocks, shoulders, and legs. In the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1, a routine examination is set for each part indicated by each part image 1201a.

  The operator designates the imaging region of the patient by clicking on the desired region image 1201a. The display control unit 9A causes the examination type display unit 1202 to display information indicating the examination type corresponding to the clicked part image 1201a. The operator clicks and selects a desired inspection type from among the displayed inspection types. Then, the selection result of the examination type is confirmed by clicking the selection / end button 1203.

  When the examination type is determined, the display control unit 9A causes the pulse sequence type display unit 1204 to display information indicating the type of pulse sequence corresponding to the examination type. Here, the pulse sequence refers to timing control (or control of such as RF pulse, application of gradient magnetic field, data collection, etc.) for obtaining an MRI image (for example, T1 / T2 weighted image) having a target characteristic. Software to do).

  The operator selects and clicks information indicating the type of the desired pulse sequence, and clicks an imaging start button 1205. The data collection unit 2 acquires data related to the specified human body part in the specified pulse sequence according to the control of the control unit 9. The image generation unit 3 generates an image based on the acquired data. The generated image is stored in, for example, the image storage unit 4. This is the end of the description of the pilot scan in step 2.

(Step 3)
In step 3, an imaging position such as a scan range and a slice position in the main imaging is determined, and an imaging plan such as a pulse sequence applied to the main imaging is determined. The imaging plan is determined using an imaging position determination operation screen 1200 shown in FIG. Further, the imaging position is determined using the imaging operation screen 1300 shown in FIG. FIG. 7 shows an example of a display screen when the head is designated as the imaging part.

  The operator clicks and selects a pulse sequence to be applied to the main imaging from the pulse sequences displayed on the pulse sequence type display unit 1204 of the imaging position determination screen 1200. Further, the operator clicks a scan plan button 1206 to determine a pulse sequence for main imaging.

  Corresponding to the determination of the pulse sequence, the display control unit 9A displays the imaging operation screen 1300 on the display unit 7A. The imaging operation screen 1300 is provided with imaging position display units 1301 and 1302 for displaying information indicating the imaging position of the imaging region.

  The imaging position display unit 1301 displays a tomographic image (sagittal image) obtained from the side of the imaging region (head) obtained by pilot scanning. Further, on the sagittal image, a rectangular image representing a scan range and a plurality of linear images representing slice positions in the rectangular image are superimposed and displayed. Here, the former image is referred to as a scan range image, and the latter image is referred to as a slice position image.

  The imaging position display unit 1302 displays tomographic images (axial image and coronal image) obtained by pilot scanning from above and behind the imaging region. The coronal image may be a tomographic image from the front of the patient. A scan range image and a slice position image are also superimposed on these images.

  The operator operates the operation unit 7B to determine the scan range by adjusting the size and position of the scan range image displayed on the imaging position display unit 1301 with respect to the sagittal image. The scan range is changed by, for example, dragging a frame of the scan range image with a mouse. The change result of the scan range is reflected in the scan range image in the imaging position display unit 1302.

  In addition, the operator operates the operation unit 7B to determine the slice position by adjusting the position of the slice position image displayed on the imaging position display unit 1301 with respect to the sagittal image. The slice position is changed by dragging the slice position image with a mouse, for example. The change result of the slice position is reflected in the slice position image in the imaging position display unit 1302.

  After determining the imaging position in this manner, the operator clicks the Queue / Exit button 1303 to determine the imaging position. When the imaging position is determined, the display control unit 9A displays the imaging position determination operation screen 1200 of FIG. 6 on the display unit 7A again.

(Step 4)
In step 4, actual imaging is performed. Unlike the preliminary pilot scan, the main imaging is imaging for acquiring an image used for diagnosis.

  When the imaging start button 1205 on the imaging position determination operation screen 1200 displayed at the end of step 3 is clicked, the control unit 9 controls the data collection unit 2 to start data collection. At this time, data corresponding to the scan range determined in step 3 is collected. The image generation unit 3 generates a tomographic image having a cross section at each slice position determined in step 3 based on the collected data.

  The generated image is stored in the image storage unit 4 as an image file Fi. At this time, the imaging conditions such as the type of the pulse sequence are also stored together with the tomographic image.

  The display controller 9A displays a Next button (not shown) on the imaging position determination operation screen 1200 when the imaging position determination operation screen 1200 is displayed again at the end of the description of Step 3. This Next button is a soft key that is clicked to move to the next step after the step currently being executed. Since this inspection is a routine inspection, the next process is set in advance. When the operator clicks the Next button, the display control unit 9A displays the image observation screen 1400 shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit 7A.

(Step 5)
In step 5, the captured image is observed on the image observation screen 1400. The operator clicks the image processing start button 1401 on the image observation screen 1400 and instructs the start of image processing for the image acquired in step 4.

  The reduced image display unit 1402 displays the reduced images of the tomographic images acquired in step 4 in an array. The operator designates a desired reduced image by operating the operation unit 7B. The reduced image is generated by the control unit 9 based on the tomographic image acquired in step 4. The reduced image may be an image obtained by simply reducing the tomographic image, or may be a thumbnail image of the tomographic image.

  Each reduced image is associated with a base tomographic image (stored in the image storage unit 4). This association is performed using, for example, an image ID assigned to the tomographic image when the image is acquired. The display control unit 9A refers to this association, and causes the image display unit 1403 to display a tomographic image corresponding to the reduced image designated by the operator.

  In addition, the operator observes the displayed tomographic image and operates the operation unit 7B to adjust display conditions such as image brightness, panning, and magnification. This process is performed, for example, by operating a mouse. After adjusting the display conditions, the operator applies the display conditions by clicking on the lower right area of the image display unit 1403. The operator creates a tomographic image having a desired display mode by repeating the operations of selecting and displaying the tomographic image, adjusting the display conditions, and applying them as necessary.

(Step 6)
In step 6, as the last process of the routine inspection, image printing (filming) is performed. On the left side of the reduced image display unit 1402 of the image observation screen 1400 shown in FIG. The operator clicks a protocol designation button 1404 corresponding to a desired protocol.

  Next, the operator clicks an image reading button 1405 to read the image displayed on the image display unit 1403 as an image used for filming. That is, the control unit 9 reads the image data of the image displayed on the image display unit 1403 from the image storage unit 4 in response to the click of the image reading button 1405, and performs the filming created separately. The image data is stored in a folder of images to be provided. At this time, the protocol information designated for each image is stored together with the image data.

  In this way, the operator selects an image to be used for filming from the acquired images. The display control unit 9A causes the filming image display unit 1406 to display an array of images selected for filming.

  When the selection of the image for filming is completed, the operator clicks a print button 1407. The control unit 9 sends the image data and protocol information stored in the filming folder to the communication unit 8. The communication unit 8 transmits the image data and protocol information to the imager 300 in accordance with control by the control unit 9.

  The imager 300 receives image data or the like from the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and prints an image based on each image data on a film based on information of each designated protocol.

  The image observation screen 1400 used as described above is a display screen that functions as an example of the “print operation screen” of the present invention.

(Step 7)
In step 7, the operator performs a predetermined operation after a series of routine inspection processes is completed. In this embodiment, the Next button 1400A on the image observation screen 1400 is clicked as a predetermined operation.

(Step 8)
In step 8, the presence or absence of the next patient is determined. This process is performed by the patient determination unit 9C in response to the click of the Next button 1400A. The contents of this process have been described in detail in the description of the patient determination unit 9C described above.

  When it is determined that the next patient exists (S8; Y), the display control unit 9A causes the display unit 7A to display the imaging position determination operation screen 1200 illustrated in FIG. The operator performs a series of processes shown in Steps 2 to 6 on the new patient.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no next patient (S8; N), the display control unit 9A displays the image transfer screen 1500 shown in FIG. 9 on the display unit 7A. The image transfer screen 1500 corresponds to an example of the “image transmission operation screen” of the present invention.

(Step 9)
In step 9, the image is transferred. Here, a case where an image is transferred to the PACS will be described. 9, 10 and 11 show examples of display screens for performing image transfer processing.

  First, the operator clicks a desired transfer file button 1501 in the image transfer screen 1500 shown in FIG. 9 to select a file in which image data to be transferred to the PACS is stored.

  Next, the operator clicks the network menu 1502 to display the choices “transmission” and “reception”, and selects “transmission” by a drag operation. The network menu 1502 includes a pull-down menu.

  When the Next button 1500A is clicked after “Send” is selected in the network menu 1502, the display control unit 9A pops up the network window 1600 shown in FIG. In the network window 1600, a list of transfer destinations is displayed. The operator selects a transfer destination and clicks an end button 1601. Thereby, a transfer destination is designated. The transfer destination is selected by clicking a check box corresponding to a desired transfer destination in the list and inputting a check mark.

  When the transfer destination is designated, the display control unit 9A ends the display of the network window 1600. An examination list display unit 1503 on the image transfer screen 1500 displays a list of examinations already performed. The operator selects and clicks a desired examination in the list and clicks a selection button 1504 to confirm the selection result.

  When the Next button 1500A is clicked after the selection button 1504 is clicked, the display control unit 9A displays the transfer information confirmation screen 1700 shown in FIG. 11 on the display unit 7A. In the transfer information display section 1701 of the transfer information confirmation screen 1700, information such as the selected examination and the designated transfer destination is displayed.

  The operator confirms the display content of the transfer information display unit 1701. If the displayed content is appropriate, the operator clicks the apply button 1702. When the apply button 1702 is clicked, the control unit 9 sends the image data acquired in the selected examination and the accompanying information (patient information, imaging conditions, etc.) to the communication unit 8. The communication unit 8 transmits image data or the like to a designated transfer destination in accordance with control by the control unit 9.

  The transfer destination (PACS) receives the image data transmitted from the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 and stores it in the database. The PACS provides image data in response to a request from an image viewer or the like.

  If the display content of the transfer information display unit 1701 is not appropriate, the operator corrects the inspection and transfer destination by operating various buttons arranged below the transfer information display unit 1701, and transfers the transfer information. Confirm and transfer the information again.

  When the image transfer process is completed, the operator clicks the Next button 1700A. Thereby, the examination for the patient recorded in the patient list L is completed. At this time, for example, the display control unit 9A causes the display unit 7A to display a standby screen until a new patient is registered in the patient list L. For example, the patient reservation screen 1000 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed as the standby screen.

[Action / Effect]
The operation and effect of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

  The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 stores a patient list L. The control unit 9 responds to the click of the Next button 1400A on the image observation screen 1400 after the end of a series of processes in the routine examination, and displays any one of the operation screens 1000 to 1700 described above in the patient list L. Based on the selection, display is made on the display unit 7A.

  More specifically, in response to the click of the Next button 1500A, the control unit 9 first determines the presence or absence of the next patient based on the patient list L. When the next patient exists, the control unit 9 displays the imaging position determination operation screen 1200 as the first screen in the examination for the patient. On the other hand, when there is no next patient, the control unit 9 displays an image transfer operation screen 1500.

  According to such a medical image diagnostic apparatus 1, when the next process differs depending on the presence or absence of a patient who has not yet been examined, the next process is automatically determined based on the presence or absence of the next patient. The operation screen for performing the next processing can be automatically displayed. This eliminates the need for the operator to use different operations in consideration of the presence or absence of the next patient. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the operability of the medical image diagnostic apparatus. Further, according to this embodiment, it is possible to avoid an operation error caused by an error in grasping the presence or absence of the next patient.

[Modification]
The configuration detailed above is merely a specific example for suitably carrying out the present invention. Therefore, various modifications within the scope of the present invention can be made as appropriate. A modification will be described below.

  In the above embodiment, an operation on the Next button 1400A is used as a trigger, and the operation screen is selected and displayed by determining the presence or absence of the next patient. However, another trigger can be used. For example, an operation using a mouse menu (menu displayed by right click or the like) or a mouse wheel (a rotary operation means mounted on a mouse) can be used as a trigger. An operation on a predetermined key on the keyboard can be used as a trigger. Furthermore, an operation on an operation means provided on a dedicated control panel of the medical image diagnostic apparatus may be used as a trigger.

  In the above embodiment, after the image printing process is performed, the presence or absence of the next patient is determined and the operation screen is selected and displayed. However, after the processes other than the printing process are completed, the determination process and You may comprise so that a display process may be performed. For example, when the image is not printed, it is possible to shift to the determination process and the display process by performing a predetermined operation after the end of the main imaging or after the end of the image observation.

  In the above-described embodiment, when there is no next patient, the process proceeds to the image transfer process. However, when the image transfer is not performed, for example, the standby screen is displayed. Such a configuration can be adopted.

It is a schematic block diagram showing an example of composition of a suitable embodiment of a medical image diagnostic device concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the patient list | wrist in suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is a flowchart showing an example of the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention. It is the schematic showing an example of the display screen displayed in the usage pattern of suitable embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus concerning this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Medical image diagnostic apparatus 2 Data collection part 3 Image generation part 4 Image storage part Fi Image file 5 Order reception part 6 List storage part L Patient list 7 User interface 7A Display part 7B Operation part 8 Communication part 9 Control part 9A Display control part 9B List control unit 9C Patient determination unit 100 Order terminal 200 RIS
300 Imager 400 External device 1000 Patient reservation screen 1100 Search key setting screen 1200 Imaging position determination operation screen 1300 Imaging operation screen 1400 Image observation screen 1500 Image transfer screen 1600 Network window 1700 Transfer information confirmation screen 1400A, 1500A, 1700A Next button

Claims (6)

A medical image diagnostic apparatus that executes a series of processes including a process of acquiring data reflecting a form or function in a body of a subject, and a process of generating an image based on the acquired data,
Storage means for storing schedule information indicating the presence or absence of a subject to be subjected to the series of processing;
Display means for displaying a plurality of operation screens for performing an operation for executing the series of processes;
Operation means;
Based on the schedule information, an operation screen for performing an operation for executing the next series of processing when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation means after the end of the series of processing is performed. Control means for selecting from among the operation screens to be displayed on the display means;
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising: The control means displays a predetermined soft key on the operation screen displayed in the last process in the series of processes, and when the soft key is operated as the predetermined operation, Select and display the operation screen.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. The control means determines whether or not there is a subject that has not yet been subjected to the series of processing based on the schedule information when the predetermined operation is performed, and determines that the subject exists. When the operation is performed, an operation screen for acquiring the data is displayed on the display means.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the medical image diagnostic apparatus is a medical image diagnostic apparatus. A transmission means for transmitting data to an external device via a network;
The control means determines whether or not there is a subject that has not yet been subjected to the series of processing based on the schedule information when the predetermined operation is performed, and if the subject does not exist When determined, control the transmission means to transmit the image to the external device,
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the medical image diagnostic apparatus is a medical image diagnostic apparatus. The plurality of operation screens print an imaging position determination operation screen for determining an imaging position of a subject as the first process in the series of processes and the image as the last process in the series of processes. Printing operation screen for
The control means displays a predetermined soft key on the print operation screen, and when the soft key is operated as the predetermined operation, the series of processes is not yet performed based on the schedule information. It is determined whether or not a subject exists, and when the subject is determined to be present, the imaging position determination operation screen is displayed on the display unit.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. A transmission means for transmitting data to an external device via a network;
The plurality of operation screens include a print operation screen for printing the image as a last process in the series of processes, and an image transmission operation screen for transmitting the image to an external device,
The control means displays a predetermined soft key on the print operation screen, and when the soft key is operated as the predetermined operation, the series of processes is not yet performed based on the schedule information. It is determined whether or not a subject exists, and when it is determined that the subject does not exist, the image transmission operation screen is displayed on the display unit.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

Images