JP5200625B2 - Radiation image generation system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a radiation image generation system .

Conventionally, for the purpose of disease diagnosis and the like, a radiographic image taken using radiation, represented by an X-ray image, has been widely used.
Such medical radiographic images were conventionally taken using a screen film, but in recent years, digitization of radiographic images has been realized. For example, a stimulable phosphor layer forms radiation transmitted through a subject. After being stored in the photostimulable phosphor sheet, the photostimulable phosphor sheet is scanned with a laser beam, and the photostimulated light emitted from the photostimulable phosphor sheet is photoelectrically converted to produce a radiation image. CR (Computed Radiography) apparatuses for obtaining data are widely used.

  A radiation image generation system using such a CR apparatus can be applied in various situations from a large scale facility to a relatively small scale facility.

  For example, when applied to a relatively large-scale radiology department, etc., radiographing order information is registered in advance with RIS (Radiology Information System) or HIS (Hospital Information System). However, even if a plurality of photographings proceed simultaneously, it is operated so that the correspondence between the patient and the image is not mistaken.

In addition, when such a system is introduced in a small-scale facility operated by a small number of doctors, it is assumed that there are few people who perform imaging (for example, a single doctor performs diagnostic actions from all imaging). Therefore, it is desirable to eliminate the wasteful input work as much as possible and improve the operation efficiency of the facility.
For this reason, for example, in Patent Document 1, as an imaging workflow that can be smoothly operated even when a radiological image generation system using a CR device is introduced in a small-scale facility, correspondence between imaging region information and a cassette is previously provided. In addition to the pre-registration method in which images are acquired after shooting is registered as shooting reservation information, and the post-registration method in which the association between shooting part information and cassette insertion order is registered as shooting reservation information and images are acquired. Thus, a system is disclosed in which it is possible to select a method for acquiring an image without registering the association as shooting reservation information, and the subsequent processing is executed according to the method selected by the user.

  When the console and the imaging device are used at a ratio of 1: 1, an image captured by a certain imaging device is always sent to the console associated with the imaging device and is associated with the patient. And the image are not mistakenly associated with each other. In a small-scale facility, there are few imaging devices, and the console and the imaging device are mostly used at a ratio of 1: 1, and there is no particular problem even if the input work of prior patient information and the like is abolished. .

On the other hand, in a relatively large-scale facility having a plurality of radiographing rooms, it is assumed that radiographing is performed simultaneously with a plurality of radiographing apparatuses. Arise.
For this reason, in order to correctly associate a patient and an image even under such a usage environment, a plurality of sheets (stimulable phosphor sheets) identification information and patient information are associated and registered for each of a plurality of imaging apparatuses. There has been proposed a system in which an information registration terminal (console) is provided, a plurality of image data can be confirmed without confusion, and a patient and an image can be correctly associated with each other (for example, see Patent Document 2).

  In recent years, an image generation system using a radiation solid-state imaging device FPD (Flat Panel Detector) as a detector for detecting irradiated radiation and acquiring it as digital image data has appeared in place of the CR apparatus.

In a system using such an FPD, when the FPD is configured to be portable, the photographed FPD (cassette) is transferred to the place where the reader is installed after photographing, as in the case of a CR device. There is a feature that there is no need to do. In addition, since the FPD is generally equipped with a memory capable of storing a plurality of image data, a plurality of shootings can be continuously performed using one FPD. As described above, the system using the FPD has many advantages over the system using the CR device, and is expected to be effectively used in the future.
JP 2005-296065 A JP 2002-158820 A

  However, the FPD is more expensive than the cassette of the CR device, and a console is provided for each photographing apparatus or photographing room as described in Patent Document 2 in order to prevent the patient and the image from being mixed. If the configuration is also adopted, excessive capital investment will be forced.

The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances as described above. When introducing an FPD, a radiation image generation system capable of preventing a patient from being mistaken for an image without using a console more than necessary. The purpose is to provide.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides:
A plurality of cassette type radiation image detectors each having a unique ID and capable of continuously obtaining a plurality of radiation image data;
A console capable of communicating with the plurality of cassette type radiation image detectors;
A radiation image generation system comprising:
The cassette type radiographic image detector has a transmission means for transmitting the radiographic image data to the console together with an ID of the cassette type radiographic image detector,
The console includes order registration means for selecting and registering one or a plurality of imaging order information related to a patient to be imaged from a plurality of imaging order information related to the imaging order, and the cassette type radiation image detector to be used. Detector designation means for designating, association means for associating the imaging order information registered by the order registration means with the cassette type radiation image detector ID designated by the detector designation means, and the association means The association restriction means for prohibiting the association of the cassette type radiation image detector ID associated with the imaging order information with other imaging order information, and the transmission means transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector. The cassette type radiographic image attached to the radiographic image data Associating means for associating with the imaging order information based on the ID of the delivery device, image determining means for determining the radiation image data associated with the imaging order information by the associating means, and confirmation by the image determining means Later, the association restriction unit cancels the prohibition of the association between the cassette type radiation image detector ID and other imaging order information, and associates the cassette type radiation image detector ID with the new imaging order information. A radiographic image generation system, comprising: a restriction release unit configured to enable the operation.

According to the present invention, the imaging order information and the cassette type radiation image detector ID are associated with each other, and for the detector associated with the imaging order information, the image obtained by the imaging is determined. Since it is prohibited to associate with other radiographing order information, it is not necessary to provide a console for each radiographing room, and it can be shared across each radiographing room, and the patient can be mistaken for the image data. Can be prevented. For this reason, even when FPD is introduced into an existing facility, the patient can be properly associated with the image data without excessive capital investment.
Further, after imaging, when the image data is determined in association with the imaging order information, the association between the imaging order information and the cassette type radiation image detector ID is canceled, so the same cassette type radiation image detector is installed. The cassette radiographic image detector can be used smoothly in the facility.

  According to the present invention, the imaging order information is associated with the operator's ID, and after imaging, the image data is associated with the imaging order information associated with the operator's ID. For this reason, even when a plurality of operators share the console, it is possible to prevent the patient from being mistaken for the image data, and to appropriately associate the patient with the image data while suppressing the capital investment. Can do.

  Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a radiation image generation system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the radiation image generation system according to the present embodiment.
The radiographic image generation system 1 is a system that assumes image generation in radiographic imaging performed in a hospital, and includes a plurality of cassette type radiographic image detectors that obtain radiographic image data (hereinafter simply referred to as “image data”). 2a, 2b, 2c (hereinafter simply referred to as "detectors 2a, 2b, 2c") and a console 3 capable of communicating with the plurality of detectors 2a, 2b, 2c.

The detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are portable cassette-type radiographic image detectors, and each has a unique ID (hereinafter referred to as “detector ID”).
FIG. 2 is a principal block diagram showing a functional configuration of the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c.
The detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c include a detector control unit 21, a radiation detection unit 23, an image storage unit 24, a communication unit 25, an indicator 26, a rechargeable battery 27, and the like.

The detector control unit 21 includes, for example, a general-purpose CPU (not shown), and a storage unit (not shown) composed of ROM and RAM. The detector control unit 21 reads a predetermined program stored in the ROM, develops it in a work area of the RAM, and the CPU executes various processes according to the program. As will be described later, the detector control unit 21 is a control unit that controls the radiation detection unit 23 to read an image signal detected by the radiation detection unit 23 and generate image data.
In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 controls the communication unit 25 so as to transmit image data to the console 3 together with its detector ID.
In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 thins out pixels at a predetermined rate from the original data (hereinafter referred to as “RAW data”) for the image data, for example, about 1/16 of the RAW data. Thus, the image data of the thinned image (hereinafter referred to as “thinned image data”) with a reduced data amount is generated. Note that the thinned image data is not limited to about 1/16 of the RAW data.
The detector control unit 21 controls the communication unit 25 to transmit first the thinned image data and then the RAW data as the image data to the console 3. Note that the thinned-out image data is transmitted first so that the necessity of re-photographing can be confirmed at an early stage.

  Note that the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are in a state in which the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are awakened from a shooting standby state (a state in which the functions of each unit other than the wireless communication function of the communication unit 25 are inactive) (Equipped with power supply to the radiation detection unit 23 and the like, in a state in which image data can be acquired) A time measuring unit that measures the elapsed time since the transition is made, and the elapsed time measured by the time measuring unit is a predetermined time or more Even if the radiation detection unit 23 does not operate, the detector control unit 21 is in a state in which power is supplied only from the rechargeable battery 27 to the communication unit 25 (imaging standby state) or in each unit including the communication unit 25. You may function as an operation state control means which controls the operation state of each part so that it may be in the state (resting state) where electric power is not supplied.

  The radiation detection unit 23 includes, for example, a scintillator that converts irradiated radiation into light, a photodiode (photoelectric conversion element), and the like, a photoelectric conversion unit that photoelectrically converts light captured by the scintillator, and a pulse to each photoelectric conversion unit It includes a scanning drive circuit that scans and drives each photoelectric conversion unit, a signal readout circuit that reads electrical energy accumulated in the photoelectric conversion unit, and the like (none of which are shown).

The image storage unit 24 includes a rewritable memory such as a flash memory.
The image storage unit 24 stores image data generated based on the image signal detected by the radiation detection unit 23. The image storage unit 24 may be a built-in memory or a removable memory such as a memory card. The capacity of the image storage unit 24 is not particularly limited, but preferably has a capacity capable of storing a plurality of pieces of image data.

  The communication unit 25 transmits / receives various signals to / from an external device such as the console 3. In the present embodiment, the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are provided with an antenna device (not shown), and the communication unit 25 transmits and receives signals to and from an external device in a wireless manner. In addition, when the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are located in the photographing rooms R1a and R1b, signals are transmitted to and received from an external device via the wireless repeater 5 described later.

  The communication unit 25 functions as a transmission unit that transmits the image data stored in the image storage unit 24 together with its own detector ID to the console 3, and also receives an imaging start signal transmitted from an external device such as the console 3. Receive. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 25 transmits the RAW data and the thinned image data generated by the detector control unit 21 to the console 3 as appropriate.

  The indicator 26 displays the states of the detectors 2a, 2b, 2c, the remaining charge of the rechargeable battery 27, and the like.

The rechargeable battery 27 is power supply means for supplying power to the functional units of the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c.
As the rechargeable battery 27, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a nickel cadmium battery, a nickel metal hydride battery, a lithium ion battery, a small sealed lead battery, or a lead storage battery can be used. The power supply means is not limited to the rechargeable battery 27, and a fuel cell or the like may be applied instead of the rechargeable battery 27.

  The rechargeable battery 27 includes, for example, the terminals on the charging device side and the detectors 2a, 2b, 2c, by attaching the detectors 2a, 2b, 2c to a charging device (not shown) such as a cradle connected to an external power source. A charging terminal (not shown) on the 2c side is connected so that charging is performed.

  The detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c may be stored in any of the hospitals, but are arranged in the imaging room R1a or R1b when used for imaging. In the present embodiment, an example will be described in which the detector 2a is disposed in the photographing room R1b and the other detectors 2b and 2c are stored in any one other than the photographing rooms R1a and R1b. The number of detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c is not limited to three, and more detectors may be provided.

  The imaging rooms R1a and R1b are rooms that shield radiation. The imaging rooms R1a and R1b relay wireless communication between the radiation source 4 for irradiating the examination object with radiation and the insides of the imaging rooms R1a and R1b and the outside. There are provided a wireless repeater 5 and a photographing stand (not shown) for holding the detectors 2a, 2b and 2c during photographing. Examples of the imaging stand include an imaging device for standing imaging for imaging a patient in a standing position and an imaging device for lying position imaging for imaging a patient in a lying-down state such as lying on the back or lying down, and detectors 2a and 2b. , 2c are used by being held on the photographing stand or the like at the time of photographing.

  In the present embodiment, radiation operation rooms R2a and R2b for performing operations of the radiation source 4 for irradiating radiation and the imaging stand are provided adjacent to the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. In the radiation operation rooms R2a and R2b, a radiation operation device 7 for operating the radiation source 4 and the imaging table is disposed.

The radiation source 4 is a radiation irradiating unit that irradiates the examination object with radiation. The radiation source 4 generates radiation when a high voltage is applied by a voltage generation source (not shown) that generates a high voltage and the voltage generation source. A radiation tube (not shown) is provided. Further, a radiation aperture device (not shown) for adjusting the radiation irradiation range is provided at the radiation irradiation port of the radiation tube.
The radiation source 4 is suspended from, for example, the ceilings of the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. At the time of imaging, the radiation source 4 is disposed at a position facing the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c, and irradiates the inspection target with radiation. Yes.

The radiation source 4 is connected to the radiation operating device 7, and an exposure instruction signal for instructing radiation exposure is transmitted from the radiation operating device 7. In addition, a control signal for controlling the radiation irradiation condition of the radiation source 4 is transmitted from the console 3 to the radiation operating device 7. The radiation irradiation condition of the radiation source 4 is transmitted to the radiation operating device 7. It is set according to a control signal from the console 3. Examples of radiation irradiation conditions include imaging start / end timing, radiation tube current value, radiation tube voltage value, filter type, and the like.
When the radiation source 4 receives the exposure instruction signal from the radiation operating device 7, drive control of each part of the radiation source 4 such as a voltage generation source and a radiation diaphragm device is performed according to the control signal from the console 3. 4 is irradiated with a predetermined radiation at a predetermined timing.
A control signal for controlling the radiation irradiation condition may be directly transmitted from the console 3 to the radiation source 4.

  1 illustrates a case where one radiation source 4 is provided in each of the imaging rooms R1a and R1b, but the number of the radiation sources 4 is not particularly limited. For example, in the case where a plurality of shooting tables such as a shooting table for standing shooting and a shooting table for standing shooting are provided in the shooting rooms R1a and R1b, one each corresponding to each shooting table. A radiation source 4 may be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the console 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an input unit 33, a display unit 34, a wireless communication unit 35, a network communication unit 36, and the like configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The computer is provided with each component, and each component is connected by a bus 37.

The storage unit 32 includes a ROM (read only memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. (not shown).
The ROM is composed of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor non-volatile memory, or the like. The ROM performs image processing such as a radiation image generation program and gradation processing / frequency processing based on automatic part recognition. In addition to various programs such as the above programs, image processing parameters for adjusting the image data of the captured image to an image quality suitable for diagnosis (look-up table defining gradation curve used for gradation processing, frequency The degree of processing enhancement etc.) is stored.
The RAM forms a work area that temporarily stores various programs, input or output data, parameters, and the like that are read from the ROM and executed by the control unit 31 in various processes that are executed and controlled by the control unit 31. . In the present embodiment, the RAM temporarily stores image data received from the image generation device 2, imaging order information (patient information), and the like.
In the present embodiment, the storage unit 32 can store imaging order information such as patient information of a patient.

  The control unit 31 reads various programs such as a system program and a processing program stored in the ROM, expands them in the RAM, and processes image data to be associated with imaging order information (to be described later) with a detector ID and the like according to the expanded programs. It is a control means of the console 3 that executes various processes including a process of associating with the imaging order information and a process of releasing the association between the imaging order information and the detector ID.

The input unit 33 includes a keyboard having character input keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse, and a key pressing signal pressed by the keyboard and an operation signal by the mouse. To the control unit 31 as an input signal.
The input unit 33 functions as an operator ID registration unit that registers the ID of an operator who desires to operate the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c.
Further, the input unit 33 functions as detector designating means for designating which detector 2a, 2b, 2c to be used for imaging or one detector 2a, 2b, 2c used for imaging.

The display unit 34 includes a monitor such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), for example, and displays various screens according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 31.
A pressure sensitive (resistive film pressure type) touch panel (not shown) in which transparent electrodes are arranged in a grid is formed on the screen of the display unit 34, and the display unit 34 and the input unit 33 are configured integrally. It may be a touch screen. In this case, the touch panel is configured to detect the XY coordinates of the power point pressed with a finger, a touch pen, or the like as a voltage value, and to output the detected position signal to the control unit 31 as an operation signal. The display unit 34 may have a higher definition than a monitor used in a general PC (Personal Computer).

  In the present embodiment, the imaging order information registered in advance from the HIS / RIS 8 is sent to the console 3, and the display unit 34 displays the imaging order information based on the imaging order information acquired from the HIS / RIS 8. A list (shooting order list) can be displayed. When the operator selects arbitrary shooting order information from the shooting order list (selects arbitrary shooting order information from the shooting order list on the screen by using the input unit 33 such as a mouse), the shooting order information. Can be selected and entered.

By selecting arbitrary shooting order information from the shooting order list, the shooting order information is registered as shooting order information for the next shooting.
As described above, in the present embodiment, arbitrary shooting order information can be selected from the shooting order list of the display unit 34, and a plurality of shooting order information can be selected by the display unit 34 and the input unit 33. Order registration means for selecting and registering any of the imaging order information from among them is configured.
The display unit 34 functions as a display unit that displays the imaging order information associated with the operator ID when the operator ID is input.

  When image data is transmitted to the console 3 from the detector (for example, the detector 2a in the present embodiment) used for imaging among the post-imaging detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c, the display unit 34 displays An image data confirmation screen 34a as shown in FIG. The image data confirmation screen 34a is provided with an image display field 340 for displaying an image based on the image data transmitted from the detector 2a, a photographing order information display field 342 for displaying photographing order information, and the like. When the image data is confirmed and it is confirmed that the desired image can be photographed without any problem, the image data is confirmed by operating the confirm button 343 so that the image data is associated with the photographing order information. It has become.

A display frame 341 corresponding to the photographing order is displayed in the image display field 340. When image data is transmitted from the detector 2a, images are displayed in the display frame 341 in order. The image displayed in the image display field 340 is preferably an image obtained by performing gradation processing based on automatic part recognition on the thinned image data.
For example, in the present embodiment, the front of the chest, the side of the chest, and the abdomen are registered as imaging order information, and a display frame 341 corresponding to this is displayed in the image display field 340. Images are displayed in order. If the shooting order is wrong, the display frame may be misaligned with the image. In this case, the operator moves the image into the correct display frame 341 by operating the input unit 33 such as a mouse. .

If the image displayed in the image display field 340 is less than the originally registered shooting order information and there is a forgetting to take a picture, the operator takes the rest of the picture without pressing the confirm button 343. For example, in the present embodiment, while the three pieces of imaging order information are registered, only two images of the chest front side and the chest side surface have been transmitted. For this reason, if forgetting to take a picture of the abdomen, the operator returns to the photography room R1 without pressing the confirm button 343 to take a picture of the abdomen, and transmits the image data to the console 3.
Initially, although three images were scheduled, the image displayed in the image display column 340 is the original image order as in the case where the image was not able to be performed due to the patient's condition. If the image is not forgotten but is not forgotten, the confirm button 343 is operated to confirm the image data if there is no problem with the image.

  Note that if the image displayed in the image display field 340 is shaken or the like needs to be retaken, re-photographing is performed without pressing the confirm button 343. For example, when it takes time to obtain permission for re-imaging from a doctor, the imaging order information and the like are temporarily stored in the storage unit 32 and the like so that another operator can operate the console 3 It may be made to become.

  The wireless communication unit 35 transmits / receives data to / from the detectors 2a, 2b, 2c and the like via the wireless repeater 5.

The network communication unit 36 includes a network interface or the like, and transmits and receives data to and from an external device connected to the network N via a switching hub.
In the present embodiment, the external devices connected to the network communication unit 36 of the console 5 through the network N include the HIS / RIS 8, the PACS server 9, the imager 10, and the like, but the external devices connected to the network N are It is not limited to what was illustrated here.

  The HIS / RIS 8 provides the console 3 with imaging order information of the inspection target relating to imaging. The imaging order information includes, for example, patient information such as the name of the patient providing the examination object, information on imaging reservations such as the imaging site, imaging method, type of imaging table (standing position or supine position) used for imaging, etc. Is included. Note that the imaging order information is not limited to that exemplified here, but may include other information, or may be a part of the information exemplified above.

The PACS server 9 stores the image data output from the console 3.
The imager 10 records a radiographic image on an image recording medium such as a film based on the image data output from the console 3 and outputs the image.

  Next, various processes performed by the control unit 31 will be described.

In the present embodiment, when the imaging order information is selected and registered by the operator from the plurality of imaging order information, the control unit 31 serves as the imaging order information and a detector that the operator uses for the imaging. It functions as an associating means for associating with the detector ID of the designated detector (for example, in the present embodiment, the detector 2a placed in the photographing room R1b among the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c).
Further, the control unit 31 serves as an association unit that associates the imaging order information with the operator ID of the operator when the imaging order information is selected and registered by the operator from the plurality of imaging order information. Also works.

  Furthermore, when a certain imaging order information is associated with a detector ID of a detector 2a, the control unit 31 prohibits the association of the detector ID of the detector 2a with other imaging order information. Functions as a limiting means.

  Then, when image data (RAW data and thinned image data) is transmitted from the detector 2a used for photographing with the detector ID attached thereto, the control unit 31 attaches the image data to the detector. Based on the detector ID of the detector 2a, it functions as an association means for associating with the imaging order information associated with the detector ID.

  When the confirm button 343 for confirming the image data is operated on the image data confirmation screen 34a, the control unit 31 functions as an image confirming unit for confirming the image data in a state associated with the shooting order information. .

  Further, when the image data is determined, the control unit 31 cancels the association between the detector ID of the detector 2a and the imaging order information, and associates the detector ID of the detector 2a with other imaging order information. It functions as a restriction canceling means that makes it possible.

The control unit 31 displays a list of imaging order information on the display unit 34 based on information obtained from the HIS / RIS 8 or the like.
Further, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 34 to display photographing order information associated with the operator's ID (see the image data confirmation screen 34a in FIG. 3). Then, it functions as a display control means for displaying the image data received by the console 3 on the display unit 34 in a state where the imaging order information is displayed, and the imaging order information and the radiographic image displayed on the display unit 34. Data is associated with each other and determined.

  Next, the operation of the radiation image generation system 1 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the flow assumes a case where the console 3 is shared and used among a plurality of imaging rooms having at least one radiation source 4.

  The control unit 31 of the console 3 acquires the imaging order information from the HIS / RIS 8 and displays a list of imaging order information (imaging order list) on the display unit 34 (step S1). When performing imaging, an operator (radiologist, etc.) first inputs an operator ID (for example, “engineer ID: 007” shown in FIG. 3). The control unit 31 always determines whether or not an operator ID has been input (step S2), and if there is no input (step S2: NO), repeats the determination until there is an input.

  When the operator ID is input in this way (step S2: YES), the control unit 31 always determines whether or not shooting order information is selected from the shooting order list displayed on the display unit 34 (step S3). ) If not selected (step S3: NO), the determination is repeated until it is selected.

  When all the imaging order information relating to the patient to be imaged is selected by input from the input unit 33 of the console 3 (step S3: YES), the control unit 31 corresponds to the imaging order information on the display unit 34 of the console 3. The image data confirmation screen 34a (see FIG. 3) is displayed (step S4). In addition, when the input which designates the patient used as imaging | photography object is performed from the input part 33, you may make it list-display all the imaging | photography order information regarding the said patient.

  The control unit 31 of the console 3 always determines whether or not a detector ID has been input (step S5). If there is no input (step S5: NO), the determination is repeated until there is an input. When a detector ID of a detector (for example, the detector 2a in the present embodiment) used for photographing is input from the input unit 33 of the console 3 (step S5: YES), the control unit 31 performs input. The detector 2a to which the detected detector ID is assigned is selected and designated as a detector to be used for imaging (step S6). When the detector 2 is designated, a signal indicating that the detector 2a is designated as a detector used for photographing is transmitted from the console 3 to the detector 2a, and the detector 2a is in a photographing standby state. Alternatively, the detector 2a that has received the signal may wake up from the imaging standby state and transition to the imaging enabled state.

  When the detector ID of the detector (detector 2a) used for imaging is input from the input unit 33 and is selected / designated as the detector used for imaging, the control unit 31 captures the imaging order of the patient to be imaged. The information (for example, the name of the patient), the operator ID of the operator who performs imaging (“Engineer ID: 007” in FIG. 3), and the detector ID of the detector 2a used for imaging are associated (step S7).

At the same time, when the operator inputs an imaging room (R1a or R1b) used for imaging from the input unit 33, a signal indicating that the radiation source 4 of the imaging room is used from the console 3 to the radiation operating device 7. May be transmitted to activate the radiation source 4.
Furthermore, when the detector 2a designated as a detector used for photographing is in a photographing standby state (a state in which the functions of each unit other than the wireless communication function of the communication unit 25 are inactive), the detector When a signal indicating that 2a is to be used is transmitted from the console 3 to the detector 2a, the detector 2a wakes up from the imaging standby state and is ready for imaging (power is supplied to the radiation detection unit 23 and the like, and the image data You may make it change to the state which can be acquired. In this case, when the detector used for photographing is left in the photographing room R1b (or R1a) like the detector 2a, the console 3 detects the detection via the wireless repeater 5. A signal is transmitted to the device 2a.

  Further, the control unit 31 of the console 3 detects which radio repeater 5 is used to transmit / receive a signal to / from the detector 2a, so that the detector 2a is assigned to any of the photographing rooms R1a and R1b. It can detect whether it is placed. Therefore, for example, when the detector 2a placed in the photographing room R1b is selected for use in photographing, when the operator designates the photographing room R1a as the photographing room used for photographing, A warning may be given by display or sound.

  When the operator confirms selection of photographing order information for a certain photographing and selection of the detector 2a used for the photographing, and confirms that photographing is performed according to this selection, the operator operates a confirmation button (not shown). Then, a signal to that effect is transmitted to the console 3. The control unit 31 always determines whether or not a signal indicating that the confirmation button has been operated is transmitted (step S8). If the confirmation button is not operated (step S8: NO), the determination is repeated until the signal is operated. When a signal indicating that the confirmation button has been operated is transmitted and it is determined that the confirmation button has been operated (step S8: YES), the control unit 31 performs processing for selecting imaging order information and selecting the detector 2a for the imaging. finish. Thereby, using the console 3, another operator can enter an operator ID, select a detector, and the like for shooting related to different shooting order information. However, the control unit 31 prohibits the association of the detector 2a already associated with the imaging order information to be used for imaging with other imaging order information. However, even if an attempt is made to select the detector 2a redundantly, this is not accepted (step S9). In this case, a warning may be given by display or sound.

When the association between the imaging order information and the detector 2a is completed, the operator moves to the imaging room R1b where the detector 2a is placed, adjusts the pose of the patient who is the imaging object, and is adjacent to the imaging room R1b. The radiation operating device 7 disposed in the imaging room R2b is operated to emit radiation from the radiation source 4, and imaging is performed. Thereby, image data is acquired (step S10), and the detector control unit 21 of the detector 2a performs a process of generating thinned image data for the acquired image data (step S11).
Then, after the photographing is completed, the operator moves to the console 3 with the detector 2a. During this movement, the detector control unit 21 of the detector 2a may perform a thinning process on the image data stored in the post-shooting image storage unit 24 to generate thinned image data.

  The control unit 31 of the console 3 always determines whether or not an operator ID has been input (step S12). If there is no input (step S12: NO), the determination is repeated until there is an input. When an operator ID is input by the operator operating the input unit 33 of the console 3 (step S12: YES), the control unit 31 performs FIG. 3 based on the imaging order information corresponding to the operator ID. Is displayed on the display unit 34 (step S13). Then, with the image data confirmation screen 34a displayed on the display unit 34, image data (decimated image data or thinned image data and RAW data) is transmitted from the detector 2a to the console 3 by wireless or wired method (step S14). ).

  In the image display field 340 of the image data confirmation screen 34a, display frames 341 are displayed in the order in which the photographing order information is selected (for example, in FIG. 3, the order of the front of the chest, the side of the chest, and the abdomen). The control unit 31 displays the image data transmitted from the detector 2a in association with the display frames in order (step S15). Note that when the shooting order is changed, the display frame 341 and the image are misaligned, so that the operator moves (replaces) the image into the correct display frame 341 by operating the input unit 33 such as a mouse. Let

  At this time, the control unit 31 may perform image processing based on supplementary information such as automatic part recognition and part information of RIS / HIS imaging order information.

  The operator confirms the image data. If there is no problem, the operator operates the confirm button 343 on the image data confirmation screen 34a. By operating the confirm button 343, an instruction signal for confirming the image data is input to the control unit 31. The control unit 31 of the console 3 always determines whether or not the confirmation button 343 has been operated (step S16). When the confirmation button 343 is operated (step S16: YES), the control unit 31 performs image data and photographing order information. Is established (step S17).

  When the association between the image data and the imaging order information is confirmed, the control unit 31 cancels the association between the detector 2a used for the imaging and the imaging order information (step S18), and the detector 2a performs another imaging. Ready for use (a state in which it can be associated with other shooting order information).

Further, the control unit 31 transmits the image data whose association with the imaging order information is confirmed to the PACS server 9 and the like together with the associated imaging order information, and stores it. Note that the storage destination of the image data and the imaging order information is not limited to the PACS server 9.
In addition, the control unit 31 transmits the image data to the imager 10 and appropriately outputs it to a recording medium.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the imaging order information, the detector ID of the detector 2a, and the operator ID are associated, and the detector 2a associated with the imaging order information is obtained by the imaging. Since it is prohibited to associate with other radiographing order information until the obtained image is confirmed, it is possible to prevent the patient and the image data from being mistaken even if the console 3 is not provided for each detector 2a, 2b, 2c. Can do.
Further, after image capturing, when the image data is determined in association with the image capturing order information, the association between the image capturing order information and the ID of the detector 2a is released, so that the detector 2a is used for the next image capturing. In addition, the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c can be efficiently used in the facility.

In this embodiment, the imaging order information, the detector ID of the detector 2a, and the operator ID are associated with each other. However, only the association between the imaging order information and the detector ID is performed, and the operator ID is captured. A configuration that does not relate to the order information may be used.
In this case, for example, the operator moves the detector 2a to the console 3 after photographing, inputs the detector ID of the detector 2a with the console 3, reads out the photographing order information, and displays it on the display unit 34. The displayed imaging order information is associated with the image data acquired by the detector 2a. In this way, even when the operator ID and the imaging order information are not associated with each other, the image data acquired by the detector 2a can be correctly associated with the corresponding imaging order information.

If the number of operators is small and there is no possibility that a plurality of imaging order information is associated with one detector 2a, only the association of the imaging order information and the operator ID is performed, and the detection of the detector 2a is performed. The apparatus ID may not be associated with the imaging order information.
That is, in the present embodiment, the operator moves to the console 3 with the detector 2a after shooting, reads the shooting order information based on the operator ID, displays it on the display unit 34, and displays the displayed shooting order information and the relevant information. Since the image data acquired by the detector 2a is manually associated, even when the detector ID of the detector 2a and the imaging order information are not associated, the image data acquired by the detector 2a It is possible to correctly associate with the corresponding photographing order information.

In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 of the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c is configured to generate the thinned image data from the RAW data, but the functional unit that generates the thinned image data is the detector control unit 21. Not necessarily. For example, only RAW data may be transmitted from the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c to the console 3, and the thinned image data may be generated by the control unit 31 of the console 3.
In this embodiment, the control unit 31 of the console 3 performs automatic part recognition and image processing. However, these processes are performed by the detector control unit 21 of the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c. Also good.

  In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which one console 3 is provided. However, one console 3 is provided for each of several detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c and for each of several imaging rooms. A plurality of them may be provided.

  A cradle (not shown) that holds the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c may be provided in the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. In this case, the rechargeable battery 27 of the detectors 2a, 2b, 2c may be charged or communicated with an external device through the cradle.

  In the present embodiment, the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are described as an example of an indirect conversion type FPD that includes scintillators and the like, but the detectors 2a, 2b, and 2c are indirect conversions. It is not limited to the FPD of the system. For example, an amorphous selenium (a-Se) layer that absorbs radiation and converts the radiation into electric charge is provided, and radiation photons are drawn into the a-Se layer at a high voltage, so that It may be a direct conversion FPD that directly converts radiation energy into an amount of electric charge (converts it into an electrical signal).

  In addition, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment and can be appropriately changed.

Next, a second embodiment of the radiation image generation system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.
Note that this embodiment assumes that the operator performs work such as shooting alone at night and the like, and the control method by the console control unit regarding the association between image data and shooting order information is the first. This is different from the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the image generation system can set an online mode in which a console and a detector are associated one-to-one by selecting and setting, for example, using an input unit of the console.
When the online mode is set, the operator who performs shooting selects and designates the detector to be used for shooting, and when shooting order information for shooting is selected, the console display section displays the shooting order information. A corresponding image data confirmation screen 34a is displayed (see FIG. 5). For example, when three pieces of imaging order information of the chest front, the chest side, and the abdomen are selected, the selected imaging order information is displayed in the imaging order information display field 342 as shown in FIG. Three display frames 341 corresponding to the photographing order information are displayed in the image display field 340 of the data confirmation screen 34a.

  In the present embodiment, shooting is performed while the image data confirmation screen 34a is displayed on the display unit of the console, and after the shooting, image data obtained by shooting is transmitted from the detector to the console, the image is displayed. Images are displayed in the display frames 341 in the column 340 in the order of transmission. And the control part of a console matches the image data transmitted from a detector with the display frame 341 in order.

As in the first embodiment, the confirmation button 343 is provided on the image data confirmation screen 34a, and the operator confirms the image displayed in the image display field 340 of the image data confirmation screen 34a, and selects a desired one. When it is determined that the image can be taken without any problem, the confirmation button 343 is operated. Accordingly, the control unit of the console determines the image data in association with the imaging order information corresponding to the display frame 341 displayed on the image data confirmation screen 34a.
Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the radiation image generation system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the online mode is set, the control unit of the console always determines whether the detector ID has been input (step S21). If there is no input (step S21: NO), the determination is repeated until there is an input. When the detector ID of the detector used for shooting is input from the input unit of the console by the operator who performs shooting (step S21: YES), the control unit selects the detector to which the input detector ID is assigned. It is selected and designated as a detector used for photographing (step S22). When a detector is designated, a signal indicating that the detector is designated as a detector to be used for photographing is transmitted from the console to the detector, and when the detector is in a photographing standby state, The detector that has received the signal may wake up from the imaging standby state and transition to the imaging enabled state.

Next, the control unit of the console controls the display unit to display a list of imaging order information (imaging order list) (step S23). The control unit always determines whether or not shooting order information is selected from the shooting order list displayed on the display unit (step S24), and if not selected (step S24: NO), the determination is made until it is selected. repeat.
When all imaging order information relating to the patient to be imaged is selected by input from the console input unit (step S24: YES), the control unit displays an image data confirmation screen 34a corresponding to the imaging order information on the console display unit. (See FIG. 5) is displayed (step S25), and the console enters a standby state waiting for transmission of image data relating to the photographing. Note that when an input for specifying a patient to be imaged is performed from the input unit, all imaging order information regarding the patient may be extracted and displayed in a list.

  The operator moves to the imaging room and performs imaging, whereby image data is acquired by the detector (step S26). The detector transmits the acquired image data to the console every time shooting is completed (step S27). When the image data is sent, the control unit of the console displays the images based on the image data in the display frame of the image data confirmation screen according to the transmission order (step S28). When all the shootings are completed, the operator returns to the console to check the image data, and operates the confirm button 343 if there is no need for re-taking. The control unit of the console always determines whether or not the confirm button 343 has been operated (step S29), and when the confirm button 343 is operated (step S29: YES), the image data is determined in association with the imaging order information. (Step S30), the control unit of the console transmits the determined image data to a PACS server or the like and stores it. Further, the control unit transmits the image data to the imager and appropriately outputs it to a recording medium.

  If more image data than the registered imaging order information has been transmitted, the control unit of the console simultaneously displays these on the image data confirmation screen 34a. Then, the operator returns to the console, confirms the image data after registering the imaging order information for the additional imaging afterwards.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the case of a system in which the online mode can be set, the image data captured by the detector can be obtained simply by selecting the imaging order information and the detector. It can be associated with shooting order information. For this reason, it is possible to easily and reliably associate the patient with the image data without performing a complicated input operation.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate, similar to the first embodiment.

1 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a first embodiment of a radiation image generation system according to the present invention. It is a principal part block diagram which shows schematic structure of the cassette type radiographic image detector applied to the radiographic image generation system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the image data confirmation screen displayed on the display part of a console in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the radiographic image generation system in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the image data confirmation screen displayed on the display part of a console in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the radiographic image generation system in 2nd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Radiation image generation system 2a, 2b, 2c Detector 3 Console 4 Radiation source 5 Wireless repeater 7 Radiation operation device 21 Detector control part 31 Control part 33 Input part 34 Display part 35 Wireless communication part 36 Network communication part N Network R1a , R1b Imaging room R2a, R2b Radiation operation room

Claims (3)

A plurality of cassette type radiation image detectors each having a unique ID and capable of continuously obtaining a plurality of radiation image data;
A console capable of communicating with the plurality of cassette type radiation image detectors;
A radiation image generation system comprising:
The cassette type radiographic image detector has a transmission means for transmitting the radiographic image data to the console together with an ID of the cassette type radiographic image detector,
The console includes order registration means for selecting and registering one or a plurality of imaging order information related to a patient to be imaged from a plurality of imaging order information related to the imaging order, and the cassette type radiation image detector to be used. Detector designation means for designating, association means for associating the imaging order information registered by the order registration means with the cassette type radiation image detector ID designated by the detector designation means, and the association means The association restriction means for prohibiting the association of the cassette type radiation image detector ID associated with the imaging order information with other imaging order information, and the transmission means transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector. The cassette type radiographic image attached to the radiographic image data Associating means for associating with the imaging order information based on the ID of the delivery device, image determining means for determining the radiation image data associated with the imaging order information by the associating means, and confirmation by the image determining means Later, the association restriction unit cancels the prohibition of the association between the cassette type radiation image detector ID and other imaging order information, and associates the cassette type radiation image detector ID with the new imaging order information. A radiographic image generation system comprising: restriction release means for enabling When a plurality of radiographing order information is sequentially registered by the order registration unit, the console is configured to perform radiation according to the order of transmission of radiographic image data from the cassette type radiographic image detector and the order of registration of the plurality of radiographing order information. The radiographic image generation system according to claim 1, further comprising means for displaying image data and imaging order information in association with each other. The radiographic image generation system according to claim 2, wherein the console includes means for correcting the correspondence between the displayed radiographic image data and imaging order information.

Images