JP7598741B2 - Medical imaging diagnostic equipment, X-ray CT equipment and programs - Google Patents

Description

The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a medical image diagnostic device, an X-ray CT device, and a program.

In recent years, interest in infection prevention measures has increased due to the global spread of various infectious diseases. In particular, it is necessary to take infection prevention measures for medical imaging diagnostic equipment, which is used for the examination of various patients. Conventionally, infection prevention measures for medical imaging diagnostic equipment have been carried out by medical staff such as doctors, technicians, and nurses, who manually clean the equipment as needed or at the end of the day's examinations using a cloth soaked in a chemical such as alcohol.

However, manual cleaning increases the risk of infection for medical staff. In addition, cleaning at the end of each day's examinations is a heavy workload for medical staff. Furthermore, during an infectious disease outbreak, medical staff have to work with a constant sense of crisis that they may become infected, which places a heavy psychological burden on them.

Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 6-75501

One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings attempt to solve is to reduce the workload and psychological burden associated with sterilization of medical image diagnostic equipment. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings attempt to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems that correspond to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems.

The medical image diagnostic device according to the embodiment includes an imaging unit, a sterilization unit, and a control unit. The imaging unit captures an image of a subject. The sterilization unit is provided at a position where it can sterilize an area that comes into contact with the subject. The control unit changes the operating conditions of the sterilization unit depending on the state of the device itself, and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a hospital information processing system including a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a daily examination schedule of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the embodiment.

Below, the disinfection management device and medical image diagnostic device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. To make the description more specific, a medical image diagnostic device according to this embodiment will be described as an example in which the medical image diagnostic device is an X-ray computed tomography imaging device (hereinafter referred to as an "X-ray CT device"). In addition, in the following embodiments, parts with the same reference numerals perform similar operations, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

Figure 1 shows a medical information processing system S that includes an X-ray CT scanner 1 with a built-in sterilization device 2, a medical interview terminal 6, and a radiology department information server device 7.

The devices included in the medical information processing system S can communicate with each other via a network N. The network N may be a wired communication network, a wireless communication network, or a network that combines wired and wireless communication.

The X-ray CT scanner 1 is installed, for example, in an examination room in a hospital. Here, the examination room is a space (room) where examinations are performed using the X-ray CT scanner 1, and is sometimes called an imaging room. A human presence sensor 21 is also provided in the examination room. The human presence sensor 21 is electrically connected to the X-ray CT scanner 1. The interviewing doctor terminal 6 is installed in a space (typically a diagnosis room) where an interviewing doctor interviews patients. The radiology department information server device 7 is typically installed in a hospital.

For example, the radiology department information server device 7 can be installed outside the hospital as long as it is in an environment where it can communicate with each device included in the medical information processing system S via the network N.

The X-ray CT device 1 acquires information about the examination from the radiology department information server device 7, and performs imaging of a subject such as a patient in response to an operation by an operator such as a technician. By performing imaging, the X-ray CT device 1 collects projection data about the subject.

The X-ray CT device 1 generates a reconstructed image as a medical image based on the projection data, and transmits the generated medical image together with examination order information to a server device of a medical image management system (not shown) (also called Picture Archiving and Communication Systems: PACS). The configuration and operation of the X-ray CT device 1 will be described in detail later.

The sterilization device 2 sterilizes the X-ray CT scanner 1 under the control of the X-ray CT scanner 1. The sterilization device 2 is, for example, an ultraviolet irradiator (e.g., UV-C light) that irradiates an object to be sterilized with ultraviolet light. The sterilization device 2 is, for example, provided on the gantry device 10 of the X-ray CT scanner 1, which will be described later. Details of sterilization will be described later.

In this specification, sterilization refers to reducing the number of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object. Furthermore, sterilization can be interpreted as disinfection, sterilization, or disinfection. Sterilization refers to killing (inactivating) bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object.

Sterilization means killing all bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object, regardless of whether they are harmful or not. Disinfection means killing (or removing) pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object so that they are no longer harmful.

The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this embodiment uses the sterilization device 2 to execute multiple types of sterilization-related processes with different operating conditions. Below, an example of operation for executing simple sterilization and strict sterilization as two types of processes with different operating conditions will be described. Here, strict sterilization means a process executed under stricter operating conditions than the operating conditions of simple sterilization. The operating conditions will be described later.

In this embodiment, the sterilization device 2 sterilizes the X-ray CT device 1 under the control of the X-ray CT device 1, but the sterilization device 2 may also sterilize the X-ray CT device 1 under the control of a sterilization control device separate from the control device 15 of the X-ray CT device 1.

The human presence sensor 21 detects the presence of a person in the examination room. The human presence sensor 21 is, for example, an infrared sensor that detects the presence of a person from the state of infrared rays. Note that the human presence sensor 21 is not limited to an infrared sensor.

For example, the human presence sensor 21 may be a thermograph that analyzes infrared rays emitted from an object and displays the heat distribution as a diagram. Also, for example, the human presence sensor 21 may be one or more cameras that can capture the entire examination room. In this case, the human presence sensor 21 detects the presence of a person by analyzing the captured image, etc. Note that the X-ray CT device 1 may be configured without the human presence sensor 21.

The interviewing doctor terminal 6 is, for example, a computer installed in a consultation room, and creates examination order information for the examination of the subject using the X-ray CT scanner 1 according to the input operation of the interviewing doctor. The interviewing doctor terminal 6 transmits the created examination order information to the radiology department information server device 7 via the network N.

Here, the examination order information includes information that identifies the subject (patient ID information), examination reservation information (examination date and time, etc.), as well as at least one of the following: examination purpose (examination type), information that identifies the medical imaging diagnostic device to be used, imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current), imaging site (diagnostic site), imaging method (presence or absence of contrast agent, etc.), subject's posture during imaging, reconstruction conditions, etc.

The examination order information also includes information indicating whether or not the subject P to be imaged is a subject for an emergency examination (hereinafter also referred to as emergency necessity information).

The interviewing doctor terminal 6 can be realized, for example, as a mobile terminal (such as a notebook computer or tablet computer).

The radiology department information server device 7 is a computer device that executes processes related to information management in radiology department information systems (also called "RIS"). Here, a RIS is an information system that manages information in the radiology department of a hospital. The radiology department information server device 7 is sometimes called a RIS server.

The radiology department information server device 7 receives examination order information, for example, from the interviewing doctor terminal 6 via the network N. The radiology department information server device 7 transmits the examination order information to the X-ray CT device 1 identified by the examination order information.

When the examination order information is sent to the X-ray CT device 1, the radiology department information server device 7 may add patient ID information and examination reservation information to a DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) tag, etc.

Next, the configuration of the X-ray CT device 1 will be described in detail. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray CT device 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT device 1 has a gantry device 10, a bed device 30, and a console device 40.

In FIG. 1, the rotation axis of the rotating frame 13 in the non-tilted state or the longitudinal direction of the tabletop 33 of the bed device 30 is defined as the Z-axis direction, the axis direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface is defined as the X-axis direction, and the axis direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the Y-axis direction.

The gantry 10 has an imaging system 19 for capturing medical images used in diagnosis. The imaging system 19 is composed of, for example, an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12, a wedge 16, and a collimator 17. In other words, the gantry 10 is an apparatus having an imaging system 19 that irradiates the subject P with X-rays and collects projection data from detection data of the X-rays that have passed through the subject P. Therefore, the imaging system 19 of the gantry 10 can be said to be an example of an imaging unit.

The gantry device 10 also has an opening for accommodating the subject P. The tabletop 33 on which the subject P is placed is accommodated in the opening, with the side on which the bed device 30 is provided serving as the entrance. A sterilization device 2 is attached above the entrance of the opening. The sterilization device 2 is an example of a sterilization section. The sterilization device 2 performs sterilization by irradiating ultraviolet light.

By providing the sterilization device 2 above the entrance of the gantry device 10, ultraviolet light can be irradiated onto the upper surface of the tabletop 33 of the bed device 30. In other words, it becomes possible to sterilize areas that may come into contact with the subject P.

The installation position of the sterilization device 2 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1, so long as it is a position that can sterilize the area that the subject comes into contact with. For example, all or part of the rotating frame 13 may be made of a material that transmits ultraviolet light, and the sterilization device 2 may be provided inside the rotating frame 13.

By installing the sterilization device 2 inside the rotating frame 13, it becomes possible to irradiate ultraviolet rays while rotating the rotating frame 13. In other words, ultraviolet rays can be irradiated to areas other than the top surface of the table top 33 of the bed device 30.

The gantry device 10 has an X-ray tube 11, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, an X-ray detector 12, an X-ray high voltage device 14, a DAS (Data Acquisition System) 18, a rotating frame 13, a control device 15, and a bed device 30.

The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube that irradiates thermoelectrons from the cathode (filament) to the anode (target) by applying high voltage from the X-ray high voltage device 14.

The wedge 16 is a filter for adjusting the amount of X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11. Specifically, the wedge 16 is a filter that transmits and attenuates the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 so that the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P have a predetermined distribution.

The wedge 16 is, for example, a wedge filter or bow-tie filter, which is a filter made of processed aluminum to have a specified target angle and a specified thickness.

The collimator 17 is a lead plate or the like that is used to narrow the irradiation range of the X-rays that have passed through the wedge 16, and a slit is formed by combining multiple lead plates or the like.

The X-ray detector 12 detects the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 and passing through the subject P, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of X-rays to the data acquisition device (DAS 18). The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, multiple X-ray detection element rows in which multiple X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along a single arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11.

The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, multiple X-ray detection element rows in which multiple X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along one arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray detector 12 has a structure in which, for example, multiple X-ray detection element rows in which multiple X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction are arranged in the slice direction (also called the body axis direction or row direction).

The X-ray detector 12 is, for example, an indirect conversion type detector having a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has multiple scintillators, and the scintillators have scintillator crystals that output light with a photon amount corresponding to the amount of incident X-rays. The grid is arranged on the X-ray incident side of the scintillator array, and has an X-ray shielding plate that has the function of absorbing scattered X-rays.

The optical sensor array has a function of converting the amount of light from the scintillator into an electrical signal according to the amount of light, and has an optical sensor such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT). Note that the X-ray detector 12 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts the incident X-rays into an electrical signal.

The X-ray high voltage device 14 has electrical circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and includes a high voltage generator that generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 11, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays emitted by the X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type.

The X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on the rotating frame 13 or on the fixed frame (not shown) side of the gantry device 10. The fixed frame is a frame that supports the rotating frame 13 so that it can rotate.

The DAS 18 has an amplifier that performs an amplification process on the electrical signals output from each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 12, and an A/D converter that converts the electrical signals into digital signals, and generates detection data. The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is transferred to the console device 40.

The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 in opposing positions and rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 using a control device 15. In addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12, the rotating frame 13 may also support an X-ray high voltage device 14 and a DAS 18.

The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is, for example, transmitted by optical communication from a transmitter having a light-emitting diode mounted on the rotating frame 13 to a receiver having a photodiode mounted on a non-rotating part of the mounting device 10, such as a fixed frame, and then transferred to the console device 40.

The method of transmitting the detection data from the rotating frame 13 to the non-rotating part of the gantry 10 is not limited to optical communication, and other non-contact data transmission methods may be used.

The control device 15 has a processing circuit with a CPU and the like, and a driving mechanism such as a motor and an actuator. The control device 15 has a function of receiving an input signal from an input interface 43 attached to the console device 40 or an input interface attached to the gantry device 10, and controlling the operation of the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30.

In addition, the control device 15 receives input signals and controls the rotation of the rotating frame 13, as well as the operation of the gantry device 10 and bed device 30.

For example, the control device 15 tilts the gantry 10 by rotating the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on inclination angle (tilt angle) information input by an input interface attached to the gantry 10. The operation control function 45a of the control device 15 or the processing circuit 45 is an example of a control unit.

The bed device 30 is a device on which the subject P to be scanned is placed and moved, and includes a base 31, a bed driving device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 is a housing that supports the support frame 34 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The bed driving device 32 is a motor or actuator that moves the top plate 33, on which the subject P is placed, in its longitudinal direction (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 1).

The tabletop 33 provided on the upper surface of the support frame 34 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. The bed driving device 32 may move the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction of the tabletop 33 in addition to the tabletop 33.

The bed driving device 32 moves the base 31 in the vertical direction according to a control signal from the control device 15. The bed driving device 32 moves the tabletop 33 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) according to a control signal from the control device 15.

The console device 40 is a device that accepts operations of the X-ray CT device 1 by an operator and reconstructs X-ray CT image data from the X-ray detection data collected by the gantry device 10. The console device 40 includes a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 45.

The memory 41 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The memory 41 stores, for example, projection data and reconstructed image data. The memory 41 also stores, for example, examination order information or examination processes based on the examination order information in the order in which they are scheduled to be performed.

The memory 41 also stores dedicated programs for implementing the operation control function 45a, preprocessing function 45b, reconstruction processing function 45c, acquisition function 45d, determination function 45e, detection function 45f, display control function 45g, and sterilization control function 45h, which will be described later.

The display 42 is a monitor that the operator refers to and displays various information. For example, the display 42 outputs medical images (CT images) generated by the processing circuitry 45, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from the operator, and the like. For example, the display 42 is a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display.

The input interface 43 accepts various input operations from the operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 45. For example, the input interface 43 accepts from the operator the collection conditions for collecting projection data, the reconstruction conditions for reconstructing CT images, the image processing conditions for generating post-processed images from CT images, and instructions for terminating the X-ray CT device 1.

For example, the input interface 43 may be realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, etc.

The processing circuitry 45 controls the operation of the entire X-ray CT device 1. The processing circuitry 45 has, for example, an operation control function 45a, a preprocessing function 45b, a reconstruction processing function 45c, an acquisition function 45d, a determination function 45e, a detection function 45f, a display control function 45g, and a sterilization control function 45h.

In the embodiment, each processing function performed by the components of the operation control function 45a, the preprocessing function 45b, the reconstruction processing function 45c, the acquisition function 45d, the determination function 45e, the detection function 45f, the display control function 45g, and the sterilization control function 45h is stored in the memory 41 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuitry 45 is a processor that reads out the programs from the memory 41 and executes them to realize the functions corresponding to each program.

In other words, when each program is loaded, the processing circuit 45 has each of the functions shown in the processing circuit 45 in FIG. 1.

In FIG. 1, the processing functions performed by the operation control function 45a, preprocessing function 45b, reconstruction processing function 45c, acquisition function 45d, determination function 45e, detection function 45f, display control function 45g, and sterilization control function 45h are realized by a single processing circuit 45. However, the processing circuit 45 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize the functions.

In other words, each of the above functions may be configured as a program and one processing circuit may execute each program, or specific functions may be implemented in a dedicated, independent program execution circuit.

The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical processing unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)).

The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs stored in the memory 41. Note that instead of storing the programs in the memory 41, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the programs into its circuits. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs incorporated into the circuits.

The operation control function 45a controls various functions of the processing circuit 45 based on input operations received from the operator via the input interface 43. For example, the operation control function 45a receives input of user information for logging in (e.g., a user ID, etc.), subject information, etc. via the input interface 43. The operation control function 45a also receives input of an imaging protocol via the input interface 43.

The operation control function 45a also controls positioning imaging, main imaging, etc.

The pre-processing function 45b generates data by performing pre-processing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output from the DAS 18. Note that the data before pre-processing (detection data) and the data after pre-processing are sometimes collectively referred to as projection data.

The reconstruction processing function 45c performs reconstruction processing using a filtered backprojection method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like, according to the reconstruction conditions on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 45b to generate CT image data.

The reconstruction processing function 45c also converts the reconstructed CT image data into tomographic image data of any cross section or three-dimensional image data using a known method based on the input operation received from the operator via the input interface 43.

The acquisition function 45d acquires various information. For example, the acquisition function 45d acquires examination order information for multiple subjects P from the radiology department information server device 7 via the network N. As described above, the examination order information includes emergency necessity information.

In addition, the operation control function 45a controls imaging of the subject P based on the examination order information acquired by the acquisition function 45d.

Here, we will explain the daily examination (imaging) schedule of the X-ray CT device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of a daily examination schedule of the X-ray CT device 1.

The examination process PF1 represents the process from the start to the end of examination when examining subject P1 using the X-ray CT device 1. The same is true for subjects P2 and onwards, and subject PL represents the last subject P of the day.

The operation control function 45a determines the contents and planned order of the examination processes PF1 to PFL based on the examination order information of multiple subjects P acquired by the acquisition function 45d.

For example, when the acquisition function 45d acquires the test order information of the subject P3, the subject P3 is a subject of an emergency test, so the operation control function 45a performs a process of interrupting the test process PF3 before the test process PF2. Note that the process of switching the test processes may be performed by the operator manually inputting information.

After imaging by the operation control function 45a is completed, the sterilization control function 45h described below performs simple sterilization of the tabletop 33 of the bed device 30 in principle. A detailed explanation of simple sterilization and cases in which simple sterilization is not performed will be described later. After the end of a day's examination, the sterilization control function 45h performs strict sterilization of the tabletop 33 of the bed device 30. A detailed explanation of strict sterilization will be described later.

The acquisition function 45d may also acquire information other than test order information (e.g., test results for infectious diseases of subject P, etc.) from an external device such as an electronic medical record server.

The determination function 45e determines whether or not to have the sterilization device 2 perform sterilization based on the operation input or input information related to the subject P. The determination function 45e determines whether or not to have the sterilization device 2 perform sterilization or simple sterilization between imaging sessions based on, for example, emergency necessity information included in the test order information. The determination function 45e is an example of a determination unit.

Specifically, the judgment function 45e judges that simple sterilization will be performed if the next subject P is not a subject for an emergency test. On the other hand, the judgment function 45e judges that simple sterilization will not be performed if the next subject P is a subject for an emergency test.

More specifically, for example, in the example of FIG. 3, consider a case where the judgment function 45e makes a judgment after imaging of the subject P1 is completed. In this case, the judgment function 45e judges that simple sterilization will not be performed because the subject P3 scheduled to be examined next after the subject P1 is the subject of an emergency examination.

On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 3, when the judgment function 45e makes a judgment after imaging of the subject P3 is completed, the judgment function 45e judges that simple sterilization is to be performed because the subject P2 scheduled to be examined next after the subject P3 is not the subject of an emergency examination.

In the above example, the determination function 45e determines that the sterilization device 2 should not perform simple sterilization if imaging of an emergency patient is pending, but the determination function 45e may also determine whether or not to cause the sterilization device 2 to perform simple sterilization based on other information.

For example, the determination function 45e may determine that the sterilization device 2 should not perform simple sterilization if the operator inputs an instruction to not have the sterilization device 2 perform simple sterilization. Also, for example, the determination function 45e may determine that the sterilization device 2 should not perform simple sterilization if the acquisition function 45d acquires information from an electronic medical record server or the like that the previous subject P tested negative for an infectious disease within a certain period of time (for example, within three days).

The detection function 45f detects the presence or absence of a person in the examination room where the subject P is imaged. The detection function 45f detects the presence or absence of a person in the examination room, for example, based on the detection result of a human presence sensor 21 installed in the examination room. The detection function 45f is an example of a detection unit. Note that the sterilization control function 45h starts the operation of the sterilization device 2 when the detection function 45f detects that there is no person in the examination room, so as to prevent erroneous irradiation with ultraviolet rays.

The display control function 45g controls the display of various information. For example, when the display control function 45g detects the end of imaging of the subject P, it displays a screen that accepts input for starting simple sterilization (hereinafter also referred to as a simple sterilization operation screen). The display control function 45g is an example of a display control unit, and the simple sterilization operation screen is an example of an operation screen.

Specifically, when imaging of the subject P is completed, the display control function 45g causes the display 42 to display a simple sterilization operation screen. In addition, when the determination function 45e determines that simple sterilization is not to be performed, the display control function 45g suppresses the display of the simple sterilization operation screen.

For example, in the example of FIG. 3, consider the case where imaging of subject P1 has been completed. In this case, subject P3, who is scheduled to be examined next, is the subject of an emergency examination, so the determination function 45e determines that simple sterilization will not be performed. Then, the display control function 45g suppresses the display of the simple sterilization operation screen.

In this embodiment, the end of imaging of the subject P means that imaging of the subject P has ended and the subject P has left the examination room. For example, after imaging of the subject P has ended, imaging is determined to be ended when the detection function 45f detects that no one has left the examination room.

In addition, for example, a weight sensor may be provided on the bed device 30, and the result of the detection by the weight sensor may be used to detect that the subject P has stepped down from the top board 33. Then, imaging may be determined to be complete when a certain amount of time has elapsed since the subject P stepped down from the top board 33.

Also, for example, when imaging is completed, the operation control function 45a may always perform a process to lower the top plate 33, and the display control function 45g may determine that imaging is completed after a certain time has elapsed since the operation control function 45a performed the process to lower the top plate 33.

The display control function 45g displays a screen for accepting input for starting strict sterilization (hereinafter also referred to as a strict sterilization operation screen) during the shutdown process of the X-ray CT device 1, for example. The shutdown process of the X-ray CT device 1 refers to the process required to turn off the power of the X-ray CT device 1. Specifically, when the display control function 45g receives an instruction to shut down the X-ray CT device 1 from the operator, it displays the strict sterilization operation screen on the display 42.

The sterilization control function 45h changes the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 according to the state of the X-ray CT scanner 1, and operates the sterilization device 2 based on the operating conditions. The sterilization control function 45h is an example of a control unit.

The sterilization control function 45h also controls the operation of the sterilization device 2 based on at least one of the simple sterilization mode and the strict sterilization mode, which has different operating conditions from the simple sterilization mode. Specifically, the sterilization control function 45h operates the sterilization device 2 in the simple sterilization mode between image captures based on the result of the determination by the determination function 45e as to whether or not sterilization is to be performed between image captures. The sterilization control function 45h also operates the sterilization device 2 in the strict sterilization mode after the end of image capture for the day.

The sterilization control function 45h also switches the operating conditions between a standby state in which the X-ray CT scanner 1 is in a state before or after imaging of the subject P, and a termination process state in which the X-ray CT scanner 1 is in a state in which termination processing is being executed. The standby state is an example of a first state, and the termination process state is an example of a second state.

The state of the X-ray CT scanner 1 that is the target for sterilization is not limited to standby and shutdown processing. For example, sterilization may be performed during a rest period in which the X-ray CT scanner 1 is not activated for a relatively long period of time, such as during a break, or during startup processing to activate the X-ray CT scanner 1. The operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 are determined in advance for each state of the X-ray CT scanner 1.

Specifically, the sterilization control function 45h switches the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 to the simple sterilization mode during standby. Also, the sterilization control function 45h switches the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 to the strict sterilization mode during termination processing.

In this embodiment, simplified sterilization refers to a process in which the sterilization device 2 irradiates the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 with ultraviolet light for a first time (e.g., three minutes) between imaging sessions. The simplified sterilization mode is a sterilization mode in which the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 is irradiated with ultraviolet light for a first time. The simplified sterilization mode is an example of the first sterilization mode.

In this embodiment, strict sterilization refers to a process in which the sterilization device 2 irradiates the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 with ultraviolet light for a second time (e.g., 30 minutes) that is longer than the first time after imaging by the X-ray CT device 1 has ended for the day. The strict sterilization mode refers to a sterilization mode in which the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 is irradiated with ultraviolet light for a second time. The strict sterilization mode is an example of a second sterilization mode.

The above ultraviolet irradiation time is an example and is not limited to the above time. Furthermore, the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 are not limited to conditions related to the irradiation time. For example, they may include conditions such as the amount of light irradiated and wavelength.

Furthermore, simple sterilization is not limited to the process of sterilizing the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 between imaging sessions. Moreover, strict sterilization is not limited to the process of sterilizing the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 after imaging by the X-ray CT device 1 has ended for the day. In short, simple sterilization and strict sterilization may be performed under different operating conditions.

Specifically, when the sterilization control function 45h receives an input from the operator to start simple sterilization via the simple sterilization operation screen displayed by the display control function 45g, it controls the sterilization device 2 to perform irradiation for the first time.

The sterilization control function 45h also controls the bed device 30 in synchronization with the start of ultraviolet irradiation, moving the tabletop 33 in/out of the gantry device 10 (displacing the relative position of the tabletop 33 with respect to the sterilization device 2). The sterilization control function 45h then continues the ultraviolet irradiation for the first period and the movement of the tabletop 33. This allows ultraviolet irradiation to be performed on the portion of the tabletop 33 that is in contact with the subject P.

When the sterilization control function 45h receives an instruction from the operator via the input interface 43 to terminate the X-ray CT scanner 1, it controls the sterilization device 2 to irradiate ultraviolet rays for a second period of time. The sterilization control function 45h also controls the bed device 30 in synchronization with the start of ultraviolet irradiation, and moves the tabletop 33 in and out of the gantry device 10.

Then, the sterilization control function 45h continues the ultraviolet irradiation and the movement of the top plate 33 for the second time. When the second time of ultraviolet irradiation ends, the sterilization control function 45h controls the power supply of the X-ray CT scanner 1 to be turned off.

The sterilization control function 45h executes strict sterilization, and the power is automatically turned off after sterilization is performed, so the operator does not need to remain in the examination room until sterilization is complete. As a result, the X-ray CT device 1 of this embodiment can reduce the workload of the operator.

When the detection function 45f detects the presence of a person in the examination room while simple sterilization or strict sterilization is being performed, the sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization device 2 to stop the irradiation of ultraviolet light. Furthermore, the sterilization control function 45h controls the bed device 30 in accordance with the stopping of the irradiation of ultraviolet light, and lowers the tabletop 33 to enter an imaging standby state.

This makes it possible to prevent the subject P from being irradiated with ultraviolet light by mistake. In addition, when the detection function 45f detects the presence of a person in the examination room during simple sterilization or strict sterilization, the X-ray CT device 1 goes into standby mode, allowing for a smooth transition to the next imaging session.

In the above example, there is no difference between the simple sterilization and strict sterilization methods, only the ultraviolet light irradiation time is different. However, for example, in strict sterilization, ultraviolet light of a different wavelength from that in simple sterilization may be irradiated onto oxygen molecules in the air from the start of sterilization to generate ozone gas. Also, ultraviolet light of a different wavelength from that in simple sterilization may start to be irradiated onto oxygen molecules in the air after a certain time has elapsed since the start of sterilization.

Next, we will explain the sterilization process performed by the X-ray CT scanner 1 configured as described above.

Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray CT device 1 of this embodiment. Note that, as a prerequisite for the processing shown in Figure 4, it is assumed that examination order information for the subject P of interest is transmitted to the radiology department information server device 7 via the network N by the interviewing doctor terminal 6.

First, the acquisition function 45d acquires examination order information for the subject P who is to be imaged from the radiology department information server device 7 via the network N (step S31). When the subject P who is to be imaged enters the examination room and stands on the top board 33 of the bed device 30, the operation control function 45a receives an input to start imaging from the operator via the input interface 43.

When the operation control function 45a receives the input to start imaging, it controls the imaging system 19 of the gantry device 10 based on the examination order information acquired by the acquisition function 45d, and performs imaging of the subject P (step S32). After that, the operation control function 45a detects the end of imaging (step S33).

The determination function 45e determines whether or not to perform simple sterilization after imaging of the subject P based on the emergency necessity information included in the test order information of the next subject P acquired by the acquisition function 45d (step S34). If the determination function 45e determines that simple sterilization is not to be performed (step S34: No), the process proceeds to step S41.

If the determination function 45e determines that simple sterilization is to be performed (step S34: Yes), the display control function 45g causes a start button for simple sterilization to be displayed on the display 42 (step S35). The sterilization control function 45h checks whether or not an input to start simple sterilization has been received from the operator (step S36). If an input to start simple sterilization has not been received (step S36: No), the process of step S36 is repeated.

If an input to start simple sterilization is received (step S36: Yes), the sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization device 2 and the bed device 30 to start simple sterilization (step S37). The detection function 45f detects the presence or absence of a person in the examination room during sterilization (step S38).

If the detection function 45f detects a person in the examination room during sterilization (step S38: Yes), the sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization device 2 and the bed device 30 to stop simple sterilization and proceed to processing in step S41 (step S39).

On the other hand, if the detection function 45f does not detect a person in the examination room during sterilization (step S38: No), after the first hour of ultraviolet irradiation, the sterilization control function 45h lowers the top plate 33 to end the simple sterilization and proceeds to processing in step S41 (step S40).

The sterilization control function 45h checks whether or not there is an instruction to end the X-ray CT scanner 1 (step S41). If there is no instruction to end the X-ray CT scanner 1 (step S41: No), the process proceeds to step S31. If there is an instruction to end the X-ray CT scanner 1 (step S41: Yes), the display control function 45g causes the display 42 to display a strict sterilization start button (step S42).

The sterilization control function 45h checks whether or not a strict sterilization start input has been received from the operator (step S43). If a strict sterilization start input has not been received (step S43: No), the process of step S43 is repeated. If a strict sterilization start input has been received (step S43: Yes), the sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization device 2 and the bed device 30 to start strict sterilization (step S44).

The detection function 45f detects the presence or absence of a person in the examination room during sterilization (step S45). If the detection function 45f detects a person in the examination room during sterilization (step S45: Yes), the sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization device 2 and the bed device 30 to stop simple sterilization and proceed to the processing of step S42 (step S46).

On the other hand, if the detection function 45f does not detect a person in the examination room during sterilization (step S45: No), after the second hour of ultraviolet radiation irradiation, the sterilization control function 45h performs a process to turn off the power of the X-ray CT scanner 1 and terminates this process (step S47).

According to the X-ray CT device 1 according to the embodiment described above, the imaging system 19 of the gantry device 10 as an imaging unit images the subject P, the sterilization device 2 as a sterilization unit sterilizes the area that the subject P comes into contact with, and the sterilization control function 45h as a control unit changes the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 according to the state of the X-ray CT device 1 and operates the sterilization device 2 based on the operating conditions.

As a result, simple sterilization can be performed automatically between imaging of the subject P, eliminating the need for the operator to manually sterilize the device between imaging. In addition, strict sterilization, which has different operating conditions from simple sterilization, can also be performed automatically, so the X-ray CT device 1 of this embodiment can reduce the workload of the operator. In addition, since there is no need to manually clean the device, the risk of infection for the operator can also be reduced.

The sterilization control function 45h also changes the operating conditions related to sterilization depending on the state of the X-ray CT scanner 1 (e.g., the operating state of the device, such as standby or termination processing), so that sterilization can be performed under operating conditions suitable for the operating state of the X-ray CT scanner 1. In other words, the X-ray CT scanner 1 according to this embodiment is capable of performing sterilization efficiently.

Furthermore, it is believed that the reduced risk of infection gives the operator a sense of security. In other words, the X-ray CT device 1 according to this embodiment can reduce the work burden and psychological burden associated with sterilizing a medical image diagnostic device.

(First Modification)
In the above embodiment, the case where the X-ray CT scanner 1 has the determination function 45e has been described as an example. In contrast, the X-ray CT scanner 1 may be configured not to have the determination function 45e. In this case, the operator determines whether or not to perform simplified sterilization, and if the operator determines to perform simplified sterilization, the sterilization control function 45h starts control of the sterilization device 2 according to a start input from the operator.

In this modified example, the test order information does not have to include emergency information. In this case, the operator determines whether or not the subject P is a target for an emergency test.

(Second Modification)
In the above embodiment, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has the detection function 45f. However, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 may not have the detection function 45f.

In this case, the operator visually checks whether there is anyone in the examination room. In this modified example, for example, an emergency stop button or the like is provided on the console device 40 so that the operator can manually stop the sterilization, and if the operator finds someone in the examination room during sterilization, the operator presses the emergency button to stop the sterilization.

(Third Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the sterilization control function 45h starts operation of the sterilization device 2 in response to a start instruction received from the operator via the operation screen displayed by the display control function 45g.

In contrast, the X-ray CT device 1 may have the sterilization control function 45h automatically start the operation of the sterilization device 2 when triggered by detection of the end of imaging or an end instruction from the operator, without displaying the operation screen.

(Fourth Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the sterilization control function 45h changes the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 depending on the operating state of the X-ray CT scanner 1 (standby, termination processing, etc.). However, the sterilization control function 45h may also change the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 depending on the time from the end of imaging of a subject P to the start of imaging of the next subject P.

In this case, for example, the scheduled imaging start time for each subject P is stored in the memory 41, and the sterilization control function 45h calculates the time from the end of imaging to the start of imaging for the next subject P based on the time when the end of imaging for the subject P is detected and the scheduled start time of imaging for the next subject P. Then, if the time until the start time of imaging for the next subject P falls below a predetermined threshold, the operating conditions of the sterilization device 2 are changed.

Specifically, for example, the sterilization control function 45h changes the operating conditions to a shorter sterilization operation time when the time until the imaging start time of the next subject P falls below a predetermined first threshold. Also, for example, the sterilization control function 45h may not start the operation of the sterilization device 2 when the time until the imaging start time of the next subject P falls below a predetermined first threshold.

Also, for example, the sterilization control function 45h may change the operating conditions to a longer sterilization operation time when the time until the start of imaging of the next subject P exceeds a predetermined second threshold.

(Fifth Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an ultraviolet irradiator is used as the sterilization device 2 to sterilize an object. However, an object may be sterilized using the X-ray tube 11 of the X-ray CT scanner 1. In this case, the X-ray tube 11 is an example of a sterilization unit. The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example does not need to be equipped with the sterilization device 2.

Specifically, the sterilization control function 45h, for example, controls the X-ray tube 11 (gantry device 10) and bed device 30 to irradiate the tabletop 33 with X-rays while moving the tabletop 33 in/out of the gantry device 10. In this modified example, for example, at least one of the X-ray irradiation time and dose is different between when the operating condition is the simple sterilization mode and when the operating condition is the strict sterilization mode.

The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the determination function 45e. Also, the X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the detection function 45f. Note that the other configurations and effects are the same as those of the above embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

(Sixth Modification)
In the above fifth modified example, an example has been described in which the sterilization control function 45h performs sterilization using only the X-ray tube 11. In contrast, the X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example includes the sterilization device 2 which is an ultraviolet ray irradiation device, and the sterilization control function 45h operates the X-ray tube 11 when the operating condition is the simple sterilization mode, and operates the ultraviolet ray irradiation device when the operating condition is the strict sterilization mode.

The sterilization control function 45h may operate the ultraviolet irradiation device when the operating conditions are the simple sterilization mode, and may operate the X-ray tube 11 when the operating conditions are the strict sterilization mode.

The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the determination function 45e. Also, the X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the detection function 45f. Note that the other configurations and effects are the same as those of the above embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

(Seventh Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an ultraviolet irradiating device is used as the sterilization device 2 to sterilize an object. In contrast, an object may be sterilized by using a liquid spraying device as the sterilization device 2. The liquid spraying device is a device that sprays an agent having a sterilizing effect, such as ethanol or hypochlorous acid water, onto an object.

The liquid spraying device is provided, for example, above the entrance of the gantry device 10. This allows a disinfectant agent to be sprayed onto the top plate 33 of the bed device 20. In other words, it is possible to disinfect parts that the subject P may touch. The liquid spraying device may also be provided on the ceiling of the examination room. This allows the disinfectant agent to be sprayed over a wide area.

Specifically, the sterilization control function 45h, for example, controls the liquid spraying device and the bed device 30 to spray a chemical onto the tabletop 33 while moving the tabletop 33 in and out of the gantry device 10. In this modified example, at least one of the liquid spraying time, amount sprayed, and type of liquid is different between when the operating condition is the simple sterilization mode and when the operating condition is the strict sterilization mode.

The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the determination function 45e. Also, the X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the detection function 45f. Note that the other configurations and effects are the same as those of the above embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

(Eighth Modification)
In the seventh modified example, the sterilization control function 45h performs sterilization using only the liquid spraying device. In contrast, the X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example includes a sterilization device 2 that includes an ultraviolet ray irradiation device and a liquid spraying device, and the sterilization control function 45h operates the ultraviolet ray irradiation device when the operating condition is the simple sterilization mode, and operates the liquid spraying device when the operating condition is the strict sterilization mode.

The sterilization control function 45h may operate a liquid spraying device when the operating conditions are in the simple sterilization mode, and may operate an ultraviolet irradiation device when the operating conditions are in the strict sterilization mode.

The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the determination function 45e. Also, the X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example may be configured without the detection function 45f. Note that the other configurations and effects are the same as those of the above embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

(Ninth Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an ultraviolet irradiator is used to sterilize an object as the sterilization device 2. However, a system that is installed in a room in which the X-ray CT scanner 1 is placed, changes the pressure state of the room, and exhausts the air in the room through a duct may be used as the sterilization unit.

(Tenth Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an ultraviolet ray irradiation device is used to sterilize an object as the sterilization device 2. However, the sterilization section may be any combination of an X-ray tube 11, an ultraviolet ray irradiation device, an ozone generator, a liquid sprayer, and a system for discharging indoor air.

(Eleventh Modification)
In the above embodiment, the medical image diagnostic device is an X-ray CT device, but is not limited to this. The medical image diagnostic device may be, for example, an X-ray diagnostic device, a PET-CT system, an angio-CT system, a magnetic resonance imaging device, a nuclear medicine diagnostic device, an ultrasound diagnostic device, etc.

For example, if the medical image diagnostic device is a magnetic resonance imaging device, the sterilization control function 45h monitors the connection status of the receiving coils in the magnetic resonance imaging device, detects that all receiving coils have been disconnected, determines that imaging has ended when a certain amount of time has elapsed since the time of detection, and starts the operation of the sterilization device 2.

(Twelfth Modification)
In the above embodiment, the case where the target for sterilization is the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 has been described as an example. However, the target for sterilization may be other parts that the subject P or the operator may touch. In this case, the sterilization device 2 (ultraviolet ray irradiation device or the like) may be provided at a position where the part that the subject P or the operator may touch can be sterilized. In other words, the medical image diagnostic device may be configured without a bed.

For example, if the medical image diagnostic device is an ultrasound diagnostic device, the ultrasound probe is the target area for sterilization. In this case, a storage unit for storing the ultrasound probe is provided in the ultrasound diagnostic device, and the sterilization device 2 is provided in the storage unit. In addition, for example, a sensor such as an infrared sensor is provided in the storage unit so that it can detect whether the ultrasound probe is stored, and the sterilization control function 45h starts operation of the sterilization device 2 when the ultrasound probe is stored.

At least the embodiment and modified examples described above can reduce the risk of infection, the workload, and the psychological burden on medical staff involved in examinations using medical image diagnostic devices.

Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims, as well as the scope and spirit of the invention.

Regarding the above embodiment, the following supplementary notes are disclosed as one aspect and optional features of the invention.
(Appendix 1)
an imaging unit that images a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising:
(Appendix 2)
the control unit switches the operating condition between a first state, which is a state before or after imaging of the subject, and a second state, which is a state in which a termination process of the own device is executed;
2. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.
(Appendix 3)
The control unit changes at least one of the operating conditions of a sterilization method and an operating time related to sterilization between the first state and the second state.
3. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.
(Appendix 4)
A detection unit that detects the presence or absence of a person in an examination room where the subject is imaged,
The control unit stops the operation of the sterilization unit when the detection unit detects a person in the examination room while the sterilization unit is operating.
4. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .
(Appendix 5)
The control unit starts the operation of the sterilization unit when the detection unit detects that no person is present in the examination room.
5. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.
(Appendix 6)
The control unit operates the sterilization unit in response to an instruction from an operator.
4. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .
(Appendix 7)
a display control unit that displays an operation screen for receiving an input for starting sterilization after imaging the subject,
The control unit operates the sterilization unit when an input of starting the sterilization is received from an operator on the operation screen.
7. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6.
(Appendix 8)
the display control unit suppresses display of the operation screen when a next subject to be imaged by the imaging unit is a subject of an emergency examination.
8. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7.
(Appendix 9)
The sterilization unit is an ultraviolet irradiating unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto an object to be sterilized,
The control unit controls the operation of the ultraviolet ray irradiation unit based on the operating conditions.
9. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .
(Appendix 10)
The control unit changes an irradiation time of the ultraviolet light irradiated by the ultraviolet light irradiating unit based on the operating conditions.
10. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9.
(Appendix 11)
The control unit changes the amount of ultraviolet light emitted by the ultraviolet light irradiation unit based on the operating conditions.
11. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 or 10.
(Appendix 12)
The control unit changes the wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the ultraviolet light irradiation unit based on the operating conditions.
12. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9.
(Appendix 13)
the sterilization unit is an X-ray tube that irradiates an object to be sterilized with X-rays,
The control unit controls an operation of the X-ray tube based on the operating conditions.
9. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .
(Appendix 14)
the control unit changes an irradiation time of the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube based on the operating conditions.
14. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 13.
(Appendix 15)
the control unit changes an irradiation intensity of the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube based on the operating conditions.
15. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 13 or 14.
(Appendix 16)
The sterilization unit is a liquid spraying unit that sprays a liquid onto an object to be sterilized,
The control unit controls the operation of the liquid spraying unit based on the operating conditions.
9. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .
(Appendix 17)
The control unit changes the amount of the liquid sprayed by the liquid spray unit based on the operating conditions.
17. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus of claim 16.
(Appendix 18)
The control unit changes the type of the liquid sprayed by the liquid spray unit based on the operating conditions.
18. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 16 or 17.
(Appendix 19)
The sterilization unit further includes an X-ray tube that irradiates an object to be sterilized with X-rays,
the control unit switches between operating the X-ray tube and operating the ultraviolet ray irradiation unit based on the operating conditions.
13. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12.
(Appendix 20)
The sterilization unit further includes a liquid spraying unit that sprays a liquid onto an object to be sterilized,
The control unit switches between operating the X-ray tube and operating the liquid spray unit based on the operating conditions.
16. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of appendixes 13 to 15.
(Appendix 21)
The sterilization unit further includes a liquid spraying unit that sprays a liquid onto an object to be sterilized,
The control unit switches between operating the ultraviolet irradiating unit and operating the liquid spraying unit based on the operating conditions.
13. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12.
(Appendix 22)
The sterilization unit further includes an ultraviolet irradiating unit that irradiates an object to be sterilized with ultraviolet light,
The control unit switches between operating the ultraviolet irradiating unit and operating the liquid spraying unit based on the operating conditions.
19. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of appendices 16 to 18.
(Appendix 23)
The sterilization unit further includes an X-ray tube that irradiates an object to be sterilized with X-rays,
The control unit switches between operating the X-ray tube and operating the liquid spray unit based on the operating conditions.
19. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of appendices 16 to 18.
(Appendix 24)
the control unit operates a bed on which the subject is placed based on the operation conditions, and operates the sterilization unit while changing a relative position between the sterilization unit and the bed.
24. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23.
(Appendix 25)
an imaging unit having an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector for detecting X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube and transmitted through a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a rotating frame that rotatably supports the imaging unit around the subject;
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
An X-ray CT apparatus comprising:
(Appendix 26)
a control unit that changes operating conditions of a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with a subject in accordance with a state of the device itself, and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
A sterilization control device comprising:
(Appendix 27)
A computer of a medical image diagnostic apparatus including an imaging unit that images a subject and a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject,
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
A program that functions as a
(Appendix 28)
an imaging unit that images a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a control unit that controls the operation of the sterilization unit based on at least one of a first sterilization mode performed by the sterilization unit and a second sterilization mode having operating conditions different from those of the first sterilization mode;
a determination unit that determines whether or not to perform sterilization by the sterilization unit between the imaging sessions based on an operation input or input information related to the subject;
Equipped with
the control unit operates the sterilization unit in the first sterilization mode between the imaging operations based on a determination result of the determination unit;
the control unit operates the sterilization unit in the second sterilization mode after one day of imaging is completed.
Medical imaging diagnostic equipment.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 X-ray CT device 2 Sterilization device 6 Interview doctor terminal 7 Radiology department information server device 10 Stand device 11 X-ray tube 12 X-ray detector 13 Rotating frame 14 X-ray high voltage device 15 Control device 16 Wedge 17 Collimator 18 DAS (Data Acquisition System)
19 Imaging system 21 Human sensor 30 Bed device 31 Base 32 Bed driving device 33 Top plate 34 Support frame 40 Console device 41 Memory 42 Display 43 Input interface 45 Processing circuit 45a Operation control function 45b Pre-processing function 45c Reconstruction processing function 45d Acquisition function 45e Determination function 45f Detection function 45g Display control function 45h Sterilization control function

Claims (14)

an imaging unit that images a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
Equipped with
the control unit switches the operating condition between a first state, which is a state before or after imaging of the subject, and a second state, which is a state in which a termination process of the own device is executed;
Medical imaging diagnostic equipment. an imaging unit that images a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
a display control unit that displays an operation screen for receiving an input for starting sterilization after imaging the subject;
Equipped with
The control unit operates the sterilization unit in response to an instruction from an operator,
operating the sterilization unit when an input to start the sterilization is received from an operator on the operation screen.
Medical imaging diagnostic equipment. the control unit switches the operating condition between a first state, which is a state before or after imaging of the subject, and a second state, which is a state in which a termination process of the own device is executed;
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 . The control unit changes at least one of the operating conditions of a sterilization method and an operating time related to sterilization between the first state and the second state.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 . A detection unit that detects the presence or absence of a person in an examination room where the subject is imaged,
The control unit stops the operation of the sterilization unit when the detection unit detects a person in the examination room while the sterilization unit is operating.
5. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. The control unit starts the operation of the sterilization unit when the detection unit detects that no person is present in the examination room.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5 . The control unit operates the sterilization unit in response to an instruction from an operator.
5. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. a display control unit that displays an operation screen for receiving an input for starting sterilization after imaging the subject,
The control unit operates the sterilization unit when an input of starting the sterilization is received from an operator on the operation screen.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7. the display control unit suppresses display of the operation screen when a next subject to be imaged by the imaging unit is a subject of an emergency examination.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8. The sterilization unit is an ultraviolet irradiating unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto an object to be sterilized,
The control unit controls the operation of the ultraviolet ray irradiation unit based on the operating conditions.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9. an imaging unit having an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector for detecting X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube and transmitted through a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a rotating frame that rotatably supports the imaging unit around the subject;
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
Equipped with
the control unit switches the operating condition between a first state, which is a state before or after imaging of the subject, and a second state, which is a state in which a termination process of the own device is executed ;
X-ray CT device. A computer of a medical image diagnostic apparatus including an imaging unit that images a subject and a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject,
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
A program that functions as
the control unit switches the operating condition between a first state, which is a state before or after imaging of the subject, and a second state, which is a state in which a termination process of the own device is executed;
program. A computer of a medical image diagnostic apparatus including an imaging unit that images a subject and a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject,
a control unit that changes operating conditions of the sterilization unit in accordance with a state of the device itself and operates the sterilization unit based on the operating conditions;
a display control unit that displays an operation screen for receiving an input for starting sterilization after imaging the subject;
A program that functions as
The control unit operates the sterilization unit in response to an instruction from an operator,
operating the sterilization unit when an input to start the sterilization is received from an operator on the operation screen.
program. an imaging unit that images a subject;
a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject;
a control unit that controls the operation of the sterilization unit based on at least one of a first sterilization mode performed by the sterilization unit and a second sterilization mode having operating conditions different from those of the first sterilization mode;
a determination unit that determines whether or not to perform sterilization by the sterilization unit between the imaging sessions based on an operation input or input information related to the subject;
Equipped with
the control unit operates the sterilization unit in the first sterilization mode between the imaging operations based on a determination result of the determination unit;
the control unit operates the sterilization unit in the second sterilization mode after one day of imaging is completed.
Medical imaging diagnostic equipment.

Images