Radiation imaging system, radiation imaging method, control apparatus, and computer-readable medium

A radiation imaging system including an image acquisition unit configured to acquire a radiographic image based on radiation, an image processing setting unit configured to set multiple types of image processing for a specific imaging procedure, an image processing unit configured to perform the multiple of types of image processing set by the image processing setting unit on a radiographic image acquired in the specific imaging procedure to generate multiple radiographic images, and an association setting unit configured to set whether the multiple radiographic images generated by the image processing unit are to be associated with one another.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to a radiation imaging system, a radiation imaging method, a control apparatus, and a computer-readable medium, and in particular to applying multiple types of image processing to a radiographic image.

Description of the Related Art

In recent years, network-based hospital information systems have been constructed in hospitals. For example, if a radiation imaging of a subject is determined to be necessary, an examination request is input through a HIS (Hospital Information System) terminal. An examination order is then sent to the radiology department, for which the request is intended.

A radiation imaging system performs radiation imaging according to the examination order. A resultant radiographic image may be transferred to a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) or may be output as a printed sheet. The resultant radiographic image may also be subjected to multiple types of image processing. For example, a radiographic image obtained in a pneumoconiosis examination may be subjected to image processing specific to pneumoconiosis, in addition to standard image processing. (For example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-208396.)

In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-208396, radiographic images are stored in association with examination orders. However, radiographic images resulting from multiple types of image processing are not associated with one another. An operator therefore cannot retrieve, in an associated manner, the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing.

In view of the above, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a radiation imaging system in which radiographic images resulting from multiple types of image processing can be stored in association with one another.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A radiation imaging system (a control apparatus) according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes: an image acquisition unit configured to acquire a radiographic image based on radiation; an image processing setting unit configured to set multiple types of image processing for a specific imaging procedure; an image processing unit configured to perform the multiple types of image processing set by the image processing setting unit on a radiographic image acquired in the specific imaging procedure to generate multiple radiographic images; and an association setting unit configured to set whether the multiple radiographic images generated by the image processing unit are to be associated with one another.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail in accordance with the accompanying drawings.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS. 1 to 10. As shown inFIG. 1, an imaging room has two sets each including a radiation generator and an imaging platform. Specifically, the imaging room is equipped with a radiation generator100that generates radiation, a radiation detector102that detects the radiation passing through a subject106, and an imaging platform104that supports the radiation detector102. The imaging platform104is an imaging platform for a standing position. Similarly, the imaging room is equipped with a radiation generator110that generates radiation, a radiation detector112that detects the radiation passing through a subject116, and an imaging platform114that supports the radiation detector112. The imaging platform114is an imaging platform for a lying position.

A radiation imaging system includes: a display unit124that is connected to a control unit120and displays radiographic images and various sorts of information; an operation unit122used by an operator to perform operations; and the control unit120. The control unit120sets imaging conditions (the tube voltage, the tube current, and the irradiation time) for the radiation generators100and110, processes radiographic images output from the radiation detectors102and112, and performs various sorts of control. The control unit120serves as a display control unit for the display unit124.

The control unit120is connected, over a network130, to an RIS (Radiology Information System)132that sends examination orders to the control unit120, a PACS134that manages radiographic images, and an HIS136that manages the progress of examinations.

The radiology department in the hospital, upon receiving an examination order through the RIS132, sends the examination order to the control unit120along with radiation imaging information, such as imaging conditions and the imaging procedure. The control unit120performs radiation imaging according to the received examination order. The control unit120attaches auxiliary information including the examination order to resultant radiographic images and outputs the radiographic images.

The PACS134is a server mainly aimed for image management, and includes a storage apparatus for storing radiographic images and auxiliary information. A high-definition monitor connected to the PACS134is used to perform operations such as inspection of radiographic images, detailed postprocessing, and diagnosis. Thus, radiographic images output from the control unit120are sent to the PACS134.

The HIS136is a hospital management system and includes a server that manages accounting information. When radiation imaging is to be performed, an operator inputs an examination request through a terminal of the HIS136. The HIS136sends the request to the radiology department in the hospital, for which the request is intended. This request information is called an examination order. The examination order includes the name of the requesting department, examination items, and personal data about the subject. Execution information about the examination performed by the radiation imaging system is sent to the HIS136. The execution information sent to the HIS136is used for managing the progress of the examination, as well as for an accounting process after the examination.

The control unit120, the RIS132, the PACS134and the HIS136are interconnected over the network130implemented by, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network).

These apparatuses each include one or more computers. Each computer includes, for example, a main control unit such as a CPU, and a storage apparatus such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The computer may also include a communication unit such as a network card, and an input-output unit such as a keyboard, display, or touch panel. These components may be interconnected via a bus and are controlled by the main control unit executing programs stored in the storage apparatus.

The control unit120is connected to the radiation generators100and110. Specifically, the control unit120is connected to the radiation generators100and110via a wired or wireless network or dedicated line. The control unit120sets the radiation imaging conditions on the radiation generators100and110to control radiation generation by the radiation generators100and110. The radiation generators110and110serve as radiation sources that generate radiation. The radiation generators110and110are each implemented by an X-ray tube, for example, and emit radiation toward the respective subjects106and116(e.g., specific sites of the subjects).

The radiation generators100and110can irradiate a desired irradiation range with radiation. The radiation generators100and110are each installed via a support member provided at a floor surface or the ceiling. The irradiation surface of each of the radiation generators100and110has a diaphragm (not shown) that blocks the radiation. The operator can control the diaphragm that blocks the radiation, thereby defining the irradiation range of the radiation emitted from each of the radiation generators100and110.

The radiation imaging system includes the radiation detectors102and112that detect the radiation emitted from the respective radiation generators100and110. The radiation detectors102and112detect the radiation passing through the respective subjects106and116and output image data according to the radiation. The image data may also be referred to as radiographic images.

Specifically, the radiation detectors102and112detect the radiation passing through the respective subjects106and116as electric charges corresponding to the amounts of transmitted radiation. For example, the radiation detectors102and112may each include a direct-conversion sensor (such as one based on a-Se) that directly converts radiation into electric charges, or an indirect-conversion sensor having a scintillator (such as one based on CsI) and photoelectric conversion elements (such as those based on a-Si). Further, the radiation detectors102and112each A/D-convert the detected electric charges to generate a radiographic image and output the radiographic image to the control unit120.

The operation unit122is used to operate the radiation imaging system. For example, the operation unit122may include a mouse or operation icons, and inputs the operator's instructions to relevant components. The display unit124is implemented by a liquid crystal display, for example, and displays various sorts of information to the operator (a radiographer or a medical doctor). The display unit124and the operation unit122may be integrally implemented as a touch panel.

The control unit120is connected to the radiation detectors102and112. Specifically, the control unit120is connected to the radiation detectors102and112via a wired or wireless network or dedicated line. The radiation detectors102and112image the radiation emitted from the respective radiation generators100and110and output radiographic images to the control unit120. The control unit120has an application function that runs in the computer. The control unit120, while controlling the operation of the radiation detectors102and112, outputs the radiographic images and a graphical user interface (GUI) to the display unit124. The control unit120has the function of performing image processing on the radiographic images output from the radiation detectors102and112, such as noise removal, gradation processing, and enhancement processing. The control unit120can also perform image processing such as trimming and rotation on the radiographic images output from the radiation detectors102and112. The display unit124displays the radiographic images output from the control unit120.

Here, details of the control unit120will be described with reference toFIG. 2. As shown inFIG. 2, the control unit120includes: an image acquisition unit200that acquires a radiographic image (image data) output from each of the radiation detectors102and112; an image processing unit202that performs image processing on the radiographic image acquired by the image acquisition unit200; an image processing setting unit204that sets the image processing to be performed by the image processing unit202; an output unit206that outputs radiographic images resulting from the image processing performed by the image processing unit202to an external apparatus (the PACS (the storage apparatus)); and an association setting unit208that associates the radiographic images resulting from the image processing performed by the image processing unit202with one another. The control unit120performs these processes by causing the computer to execute programs stored in the memory (ROM or RAM).

The control unit120causes the display unit124to display the radiographic images output from the image processing unit202. The display unit124displays the radiographic images processed and output by the image processing unit202. The display unit124may also display image processing setting information related to the image processing setting unit204, and association setting information related to the association setting unit208. This allows the operator to know which types of image processing are performed by the image processing unit202and where the output unit206outputs the radiographic images. The operator can modify, through the operation unit122, the image processing setting information related to the image processing setting unit204and the association setting information related to the association setting unit208.

The PACS (the storage apparatus)134stores the radiographic images output from the output unit206. The PACS (the storage apparatus)134stores radiographic images resulting from multiple types of image processing performed by the image processing unit202. The PACS (the storage apparatus)134may store the radiographic images along with information such as image processing information and subject information.

The image processing unit202can perform multiple types of image processing on a radiographic image based on image processing information set by the image processing setting unit204. That is, the image processing unit202can set (add) the types of image processing for a single radiographic image. For example, the image processing unit202subjects a radiographic image to normal image processing, black-and-white reversal processing, and pneumoconiosis-specific processing, thereby generating multiple radiographic images. The normal image processing is to subject a radiographic image output from the image acquisition unit200to processing such as gradation conversion for converting pixel values into intensity (luminance) values. The black-and-white reversal processing is to invert the intensity (luminance) values (black and white) of the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. The black-and-white reversal processing is effective for enhancing white and gray portions in areas displayed in black in the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. The pneumoconiosis-specific processing is to apply predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis to generate a radiographic image separately from the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. Specifically, the pneumoconiosis-specific processing is different from the normal image processing in image processing parameters for frequency-component-based gradation conversion, luminance, contrast, edge enhancement, and noise removal.

The normal image processing may also be called first image processing, and image processing such as the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing may also be called second image processing. That is, the image processing unit202can subject a single radiographic image to the first image processing (the normal image processing) and the second image processing (the additional image processing) to generate multiple radiographic images.

In this embodiment, the image processing unit202applies the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing to generate radiographic images separately from the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. That is, the image processing unit202generates the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing, and the radiographic image resulting from at least one of the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing.

The image processing unit202stores one or more image processing parameters for each imaging procedure. For example, one or more image processing parameters are stored for each type of imaging, such as chest front-view imaging, chest side-view imaging, abdomen front-view imaging, and abdomen side-view imaging. For chest front-view imaging, three image processing parameters related to the normal image processing, the black-and-white reversal processing, and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing are stored. For abdomen front-view imaging, only two image processing parameters related to the normal image processing and the black-and-white reversal processing are stored, because the pneumoconiosis-specific processing is not required. The operator can set the types of image processing for each imaging procedure through the image processing setting unit204.

The association setting unit208sets whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another. The association setting unit208may also be called a grouping unit that groups the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing into a certain group. The image processing unit202subjects a single radiographic image to the first image processing (the normal image processing) and the second image processing (the additional image processing) to generate multiple radiographic images. The association setting unit208can then associate the radiographic images, resulting from performing the multiple types of image processing on the single radiographic image, with one another. This association is possible because the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing share the original image (the source image).

Specifically, to associate the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing with one another, the association setting unit208assigns the same auxiliary information (tag) to the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing. That is, the same auxiliary information (tag) can be assigned to the radiographic images resulting from performing the first image processing (the normal image processing) and the second image processing (the additional image processing) on the single radiographic image.

The association setting unit208can also set that the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing be dissociated from one another. If the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be dissociated from one another, the association setting unit208assigns different auxiliary information (a different tag) to each of the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing.

FIG. 3illustrates a setting screen for the image processing setting unit204and the association setting unit208, displayed on the display unit124. The setting screen for the image processing setting unit204and the association setting unit208is displayed on the display unit124. Icons are selected through the operation unit122to perform relevant operations.

As shown inFIG. 3, an “Edit image processing types” menu300shows: an imaging procedure (the protocol name and the sensor name)302; image processing icons304and306for selecting image processing available for the imaging procedure; a delete icon308for deleting a selected image processing icon; an OK icon310for confirming multiple types of image processing and the setting in an “Edit association” menu for the imaging procedure; and a cancel icon312for cancelling multiple types of image processing and the setting in the “Edit association” menu for the imaging procedure.

The “Edit association” menu314shows an association setting icon316for setting whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be grouped together.

In the “Edit image processing types” menu300, the image processing icons304and306for additional image processing are displayed. No image processing icon is displayed for the normal image processing, because the normal image processing is performed on all radiographic images and therefore need not be selected.

In this embodiment, “protocol name: chest front-view, sensor name: sensor A” is displayed as the imaging procedure (the protocol name and the sensor name)302. The operator can use the operation unit122to change the imaging procedure (the protocol name and the sensor name) as appropriate. The image processing setting unit204can set the types of image processing on an imaging-procedure basis. The image processing information set by the image processing setting unit204is sent to the image processing unit202.

For the imaging procedure shown inFIG. 3, the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing are displayed. The operator can press the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, thereby causing the image processing unit202to generate a radiographic image resulting from the predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis, in addition to a radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. Pressing the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing changes the display style of the icon304(e.g., the color or border of the icon304), allowing the operator to recognize that the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing is pressed.

The operator can press the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing, thereby causing the image processing unit202to generate a radiographic image resulting from the processing of inverting the intensity (luminance) values (black and white) of the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. Pressing the icon306for the black-and-white reversal processing changes the display style of the icon (e.g., the color or border of the icon), allowing the operator to recognize that the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing is pressed. For example, for the display style of the icons304and306shown inFIG. 3, the colors of the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing have been changed. The operator can thus recognize that the types of image processing corresponding to the respective icons304and306are selected.

While this embodiment describes that the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the black-and-white reversal processing are selectable for chest front-view imaging, this is not limiting. Various other types of image processing may be selectable, such as noise reduction, edge enhancement, vertical flipping, horizontal flipping, scaling up, and scaling down.

The “Edit association” menu314is set for each imaging procedure (the protocol name and the sensor name). In this embodiment, as shown inFIG. 3, the multiple types of image processing are determined to be performed on a radiographic image obtained according to “protocol name: chest front-view, sensor name: sensor A.” Then, this menu allows setting whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another.

In the “Edit association” menu314, the association setting icon316is made selectable if multiple types of image processing are to be performed for a single radiographic image. In this embodiment, as shown inFIG. 3, the function of the “Edit association” menu314(the association setting icon316) is made selectable if the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing or the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing is pressed.

The “Edit association” menu314displays the association setting icon316for setting whether to group together the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing. The association setting icon316in the “Edit association” menu314is made selectable if the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing or the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing is pressed.

Checking the box of the association setting icon316enables the setting of associating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing with one another as a group. Unchecking the box of the association setting icon316results in that the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are dissociated from one another as separate groups. The operator can then press the OK icon310for confirming the setting of the multiple types of image processing and the association edit setting for this imaging procedure, so that these settings take effect.

InFIG. 3, the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing are pressed, so that the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the black-and-white reversal processing are selected for chest front-view imaging. The radiographic image generated in the normal image processing is subjected to the predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis and the processing of inverting the intensity (luminance) values (black and white) to generate respective radiographic images. Since the box of the association setting icon316is checked, the setting of associating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing with one another as a group is enabled. Therefore, the radiographic images resulting from the normal image processing, the predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis, and the processing of inverting the intensity (luminance) values (black and white) are associated with one another. That is, the same auxiliary information (tag) can be assigned to the radiographic images resulting from the normal image processing, the predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis, and the processing of inverting the intensity (luminance) values (black and white).

If only the pneumoconiosis-specific processing is selected for chest front-view imaging, the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing is subjected to the predetermined image processing for the pneumoconiosis to generate a radiographic image. If, then, the box of the association setting icon316is checked, the setting of associating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing with one another as a group is enabled. Therefore, the radiographic images resulting from the normal image processing and the predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis are associated with one another. The same auxiliary information (tag) can be assigned to the radiographic images resulting from the normal image processing and the predetermined image processing for pneumoconiosis. Thus, the same auxiliary information (tag) can be assigned to the radiographic images resulting from the image processing selected in the “Edit image processing types” menu.

The association setting icon316may be the reverse of the above-described setting function. For example, the association setting icon316may allow setting whether to separate the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing into different groups. In this case, checking the box of the association setting icon316enables the setting of dissociating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing from one another as different groups. Unchecking the box of the association setting icon316enables the setting of associating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing with one another as a group.

FIG. 4illustrates a display screen of the display unit124before imaging. The control unit120can control the display screen of the display unit124. The display screen of the display unit124includes an image display area400for displaying radiographic images. The display screen of the display unit124includes a status display area402for displaying the statuses of the radiation detectors102and112, a single-view icon404, a multi-view icon406, and a frame-view icon408.

The display screen of the display unit124includes a subject display area410for displaying information about the subject, and an examination information display area412for displaying information about the examination. The examination information display area412includes imaging procedure icons414and440for displaying and performing imaging procedures, and a multi-image-processing display area416for indicating that multiple types of image processing are specified for the corresponding imaging procedure. The imaging procedure icons414and440may also be called imaging protocols.

The display screen of the display unit124includes a move up icon418, a move down icon420, an edit exam icon422, an image processing icon424, a measurement icon426, an edit annotation icon428, a suspend exam icon430, an output image icon432, and a finish exam icon434.

The image display area400displays a radiographic image captured. Switching the display target after imaging causes another selected radiographic image to be displayed. The image display area400may also display information such as subject information, examination information, and imaging conditions, as necessary.

The status display area402is an area that displays the statuses of the radiation detectors102and112with different colors and character types for easy recognition by the operator. Since the radiation imaging system has the two radiation detectors102and112as shown inFIG. 1, two status display areas402may be displayed for indicating the respective statuses of the radiation detectors102and112.

The control unit120receives the statuses from the radiation detectors102and112and sends the statuses to the display unit124. For example, if the radiation detectors102and112are not ready for detection, “Not Ready” is displayed in the status display area402. If the radiation detectors102and112are ready for detection, “Ready” is displayed in the status display area402. The background color of “Ready” is changed to a color distinguishable from the background color of “Not Ready.”

The single-view icon404is an icon for switching to single view, in which a single radiographic image frame being selected is displayed in the image display area400. For a multi-frame image, the operation unit122may be operated during preview display to display another frame or to play frames as a video. The multi-view icon406is an icon for switching to multi view, in which a group of images captured in the current examination is simultaneously displayed in the image display area400divided into a grid of display subareas. The frame-view icon408is an icon for switching to frame view, in which a group of frame images of a video is simultaneously displayed in the image display area400divided into a grid of display subareas.

The subject display area410displays information about the subject, such as the subject's name, ID, date of birth, and sex. The examination information display area412displays the examination ID related to imaging, and the imaging procedure icons414and440indicating imaging procedures. The imaging procedure icons414and440each show an imaging procedure, including information such as the imaging procedure name and the radiation detector name, and also show the thumbnail of a radiographic image if the imaging is finished. If the imaging is not started yet, a thumbnail indicating the imaging posture is displayed. The thumbnail indicating the imaging posture includes information about the imaging platform104or114supporting the radiation detector102or112. The operator can thus see the thumbnail display to know whether the imaging according to each imaging procedure has been performed.

In this embodiment, the imaging procedure (chest front-view) of the imaging procedure icon414involves multiple types of image processing to be performed on a radiographic image captured in the imaging procedure of the imaging procedure icon414. By contrast, the imaging procedure (head front-view) of the imaging procedure icon440involves not multiple types of but only the normal image processing to be performed on a radiographic image captured in the imaging procedure of the imaging procedure icon440. The imaging procedure icons414and440are therefore displayed in a manner that allows distinction about whether multiple types of image processing are performed or not.

The imaging procedure icon414involving multiple types of image processing shows the multi-image-processing display area416. The multi-image-processing display area416includes a multi-image-processing icon442and text information444, both indicating that multiple types of image processing are performed. The text information444reads “multi-image-processing,” for example. The multi-image-processing icon442includes a leftward image representing a single radiographic image, and a rightward image representing the generation of multiple (e.g., three) radiographic images. That is, the multi-image-processing icon442indicates performing multiple types of image processing on a single radiographic image to generate multiple radiographic images. Because of the multi-image-processing display area416displayed inside the imaging procedure icon414, the imaging procedure icon414involving multiple types of image processing is displayed larger than the imaging procedure icon440involving a single type of image processing. The imaging procedure icon414involving multiple types of image processing may be displayed in a different color or shape, or in any manner that allows the operator to recognize that multiple types of image processing are performed.

The control unit120thus causes the display unit124to display the information about multiple types of image processing in the imaging procedure icon414corresponding to the specific imaging procedure. The display unit124can accordingly display the information about multiple types of image processing in the imaging procedure icon414corresponding to the specific imaging procedure (chest front-view).

The control unit120may cause the display unit124to display either one of the multi-image-processing icon442and the text information444, both indicating that multiple types of image processing are performed. The display unit124may display either one of the multi-image-processing icon442and the text information444, both indicating that multiple types of image processing are performed.

If image processing such as the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing are set by the image processing setting unit204in addition to the normal image processing, the multi-image-processing display area416indicates that the multiple types of image processing are set. Specifically, if the image processing setting unit204sets multiple types of image processing for the chest front-view imaging procedure, the control unit120notifies the display unit124that the multiple types of image processing are set for the chest front-view imaging procedure. The display unit124displays the multi-image-processing display area416in the imaging procedure icon414for the chest front-view imaging procedure.

The operator can see the multi-image-processing display area416to recognize that multiple types of image processing are set for the imaging procedure displayed in the imaging procedure icon414. Here, the operator can recognize that multiple types of image processing are set for the chest front-view imaging procedure. The operator can also recognize that only the normal image processing is set for the head front-view imaging procedure.

The move up icon418is an icon for instructing to move up an imaging procedure in the order of the imaging procedures to be performed. The move down icon420is an icon for instructing to move down the imaging procedure in the order of the imaging procedures to be performed. The edit exam icon422is an icon for instructing to transition to a screen such as the setting screen for the image processing setting unit204and the association setting unit208shown inFIG. 3, for example. The image processing icon424is an icon for instructing to display or hide image processing results. The measurement icon426is an icon for instructing to display or hide measurement operation functions. The edit annotation icon428is an icon for instructing to display or hide annotations. The suspend exam icon430is an icon for instructing to suspend the current examination. The output image icon432is an icon for instructing to output a radiographic image obtained in the current examination. The finish exam icon434is an icon for receiving an operation input for finishing the examination that includes at least one imaging operation.

FIG. 5illustrates a display screen of the display unit124after imaging is performed according to the specific imaging procedure involving multiple types of image processing. What are different from the display screen of the display unit124shown inFIG. 4are the image display area400and the examination information display area412.

InFIG. 4, multiple types of image processing are set for the chest front-view imaging procedure, so that the multi-image-processing display area416is displayed.

Performing the chest front-view imaging procedure involving the multiple types of image processing results in the display as shown inFIG. 5. A radiographic image captured is displayed in the image display area400. The imaging procedure icon414representing the chest front-view imaging procedure shown inFIG. 4is decomposed (expanded) into imaging procedure icons450,452and454for the respective types of image processing. Here, since the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the black-and-white reversal processing are set by the image processing setting unit204, the three imaging procedure icons450,452and454for the normal image processing, the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, and the black-and-white reversal processing are displayed.

The imaging procedure icon450is an icon corresponding to the normal image processing. The imaging procedure icon450contains the thumbnail of a radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. The imaging procedure icon452is an icon corresponding to the pneumoconiosis-specific processing. The imaging procedure icon452contains a variation mark460indicating that a variation has been created by applying image processing different from the normal image processing. The imaging procedure icon452contains the thumbnail of a radiographic image resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing. The imaging procedure icon454is an icon corresponding to the black-and-white reversal processing. The imaging procedure icon454contains a variation mark462indicating that a variation has been created by applying image processing different from the normal image processing. The imaging procedure icon454contains the thumbnail of a radiographic image resulting from the black-and-white reversal processing.

The variation marks460and462are thus displayed in the imaging procedure icons452and454, indicating that the multiple types of image processing have been applied to create the variations of the radiographic image.

Identification information470is displayed for the imaging procedure icons corresponding to the multiple types of image processing, indicating that these icons belong to the same imaging procedure. The identification information470is displayed to surround the imaging procedure icons. This allows the operator to recognize that the imaging procedure icons450,452and454corresponding to the normal image processing, the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, and the black-and-white reversal processing belong to the same imaging procedure. The identification information470may take any form, such as text, a symbol, or an indicator, that allows the operator to recognize that the icons belong to the same imaging procedure.

After the specific imaging procedure involving the multiple types of image processing is performed, the image display area400displays the radiographic image corresponding to the imaging procedure icon454located at the bottom among the imaging procedure icons450,452and454. Because the imaging procedure icon454is the icon corresponding to the black-and-white reversal processing, the radiographic image resulting from the black-and-white reversal processing is displayed in the image display area400. The imaging procedure icon454corresponding to the radiographic image displayed in the image display area400has its display style (such as the color or the shape) changed. The operator can therefore recognize that the radiographic image resulting from the black-and-white reversal processing is being displayed, because the imaging procedure icon454is the icon corresponding to the black-and-white reversal processing.

No radiographic image is displayed in the thumbnail area of the imaging procedure icon440, suggesting that imaging has not been performed yet. Because only the normal image processing is to be performed in the imaging procedure (head front-view) of the imaging procedure icon440, the imaging procedure icon440will not be decomposed (expanded) after imaging; a radiographic image will be displayed in the thumbnail area of the imaging procedure icon440. The imaging procedure icon440does not involve multiple types of image processing and therefore has no identification information470indicating icons belonging to the imaging procedure.

It is to be noted that the multiple types of image processing may be performed after the normal image processing is performed by the image processing unit202and the resultant radiographic image is displayed on the display unit124. Specifically, the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing is displayed in the image display area400of the display unit124. At this point, the thumbnail of the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing is displayed in the imaging procedure icon414. If the operation unit122is used to select the multi-image-processing icon442indicating that multiple types of image processing are performed, the image processing unit202performs the multiple types of image processing, for example the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the black-and-white reversal processing. The display unit124then displays the imaging procedure icon452corresponding to the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, and the imaging procedure icon454corresponding to the black-and-white reversal processing. The display unit124can display radiographic images resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing and the black-and-white reversal processing. Thus, with a single operation of pressing the multi-image-processing icon442, multiple types of image processing can be performed on a single radiographic image to display the respective radiographic images.

FIG. 6illustrates a display screen of the display unit124after imaging is performed according to the specific imaging procedure involving the multiple types of image processing. InFIG. 5, the image display area400displays the radiographic image corresponding to the imaging procedure icon454located at the bottom among the imaging procedure icons450,452and454. Here, the radiographic image displayed in the image display area400can be changed. The operator can select the imaging procedure icon450through the operation unit122to cause the display unit124to display the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing. The operator can select the imaging procedure icon452through the operation unit122to cause the display unit124to display the radiographic image resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing.

InFIG. 6, the radiographic image corresponding to the imaging procedure icon450is displayed. The imaging procedure icon450corresponding to the radiographic image displayed in the image display area400has its display style (such as the color or the shape) changed. The operator can therefore recognize that the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing (the original image (the source image)) is being displayed, because the imaging procedure icon450is the icon corresponding to the normal image processing.

FIG. 7is a diagram illustrating a configuration of outputting radiographic images in the radiation imaging system. The image processing unit202, separately from the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing, generates radiographic images by applying processing such as the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing. The image processing unit202then sends, to the output unit206, the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing, the radiographic image resulting from the black-and-white reversal processing, and the radiographic image resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing. In this embodiment, the image processing unit202sends these radiographic images to the output unit206along with image processing information about the normal image processing, the black-and-white reversal processing, and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing.

Also, once the image processing setting unit204sets the image processing other than the normal image processing, image processing information about the set image processing is sent to the association setting unit208. For example, if the image processing setting unit204sets the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, the image processing setting unit204sends image processing information about the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing to the association setting unit208. That is, image processing information about the image processing set (added) by the image processing setting unit204is sent to the association setting unit208. Image processing information about the normal image processing need not be sent to the association setting unit208, because the normal image processing is performed on all radiographic images.

The association setting unit208receives the image processing information about the image processing set (added) by the image processing setting unit204and sets whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another as a group. If the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another, the same auxiliary information (tag) is assigned to the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing.

The PACS134has a storage apparatus700that stores all radiographic images captured in the radiation imaging system (including radiographic images resulting from the normal image processing). The output unit206outputs the radiographic images to the PACS134along with the auxiliary information. The PACS134stores the radiographic images output from the output unit206. If the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are associated with one another, the PACS134stores, along with the same auxiliary information, the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing performed by the image processing unit202.

Thus, since the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are stored in the storage apparatus700along with the same auxiliary information, the operator can efficiently search for a radiographic image by the auxiliary information. For example, when searching for the radiographic image resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, the operator can simultaneously search for the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing.

FIGS. 8 and 9are diagrams illustrating configurations of storing radiographic images in the radiation imaging system.FIG. 8illustrates a storage configuration in which the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are associated with one another.FIG. 9illustrates a storage configuration in which the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are dissociated from one another.

As shown inFIG. 8, if the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are associated with one another, the same auxiliary information (tag) is assigned to the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing. In this embodiment, the same auxiliary information (group A) is assigned to the radiographic images obtained in the chest front-view imaging procedure. The storage apparatus700stores the radiographic images along with the same auxiliary information (group A).

The operator can search the storage apparatus700by the auxiliary information to retrieve the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing. Here, based on the auxiliary information (group A), the operator can retrieve the radiographic images resulting from the normal image processing, the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, and the black-and-white reversal processing. When the operator desires to make a diagnosis using the radiographic image resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing, the operator can simultaneously review the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing.

As shown inFIG. 9, if the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are dissociated from one another, different auxiliary information (a different tag) is assigned to each of the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing. In this embodiment, different auxiliary information (group X, group Y and group Z) is assigned to the images resulting from the respective types of image processing for the chest front-view imaging procedure. The storage apparatus700stores the radiographic images along with the different auxiliary information (group X, group Y and group Z)

The operator can search the storage apparatus700by the auxiliary information (group X) to retrieve the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing (a single image processing). The operator can search the storage apparatus700by the auxiliary information (group Y) to retrieve the radiographic image resulting from the pneumoconiosis-specific processing. The operator can search the storage apparatus700by the auxiliary information (group Z) to retrieve the radiographic image resulting from the black-and-white reversal processing.

The operations of the radiation imaging system will now be described.FIG. 10is a flowchart illustrating the operations of the radiation imaging system.

(step S100) Before imaging by the radiation imaging system, a specific imaging procedure is selected. For example, the operator selects “protocol name: chest front-view, sensor name: sensor A” as the imaging procedure.

(step S102) For the specific imaging procedure selected, it is determined whether multiple types of image processing are to be performed. For example, the operator determines whether to perform the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing in the selected imaging procedure, in addition to the normal image processing. If multiple types of image processing are not to be performed, the process moves to step S104. If multiple types of image processing are to be performed, the process moves to step S110.

(step S104) The radiation imaging system performs imaging based on a subject's examination order sent from the RIS132. Here, the radiation detectors102and112each image the radiation emitted from the radiation generators100and110, respectively, and output a radiographic image to the image acquisition unit200in the control unit120. The image acquisition unit200acquires the radiographic image (image data) output from each of the radiation detectors102and112.

(step S106) The image processing unit202performs the normal image processing (such as gradation conversion for converting pixel values into intensity (luminance) values) on the radiographic image output from the image acquisition unit200. Here, the single type of image processing is performed on the single radiographic image to generate a single radiographic image.

(step S108) The output unit206outputs the radiographic image resulting from the normal image processing (the single type of image processing) to the PACS (the storage apparatus)134. The operations of the radiation imaging system for performing the normal image processing (the single type of image processing) terminates here.

(step S110) The operator, through the image processing setting unit204, sets multiple types of image processing for the selected imaging procedure. For example, the operator determines to perform the black-and-white reversal processing and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing in the selected imaging procedure, in addition to the normal image processing.

(step S112) The association setting unit208sets whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another as a group. If the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another, the association setting unit208assigns the same auxiliary information (tag) to the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing.

In this manner, through steps S110and S112, the multiple types of image processing to be performed and the association of the resultant radiographic images are set for the selected imaging procedure. This is preliminary setting before imaging.

(step S114) The control unit120receives the subject's examination order from the RIS132. The control unit120determines whether the imaging procedure included in the subject's examination order received from the RIS132(the external device) matches the imaging procedure involving the multiple types of image processing. The control unit120here serves as a determination unit. The imaging procedure involving the multiple types of image processing is the imaging procedure selected before imaging. If the imaging procedures do not match one another, the process moves to step S104. If the imaging procedures match one another, the process moves to step S116.

(step S116) The radiation imaging system performs imaging according to the examination order sent from the RIS132. In this embodiment, the radiation detectors102and112each image the radiation emitted from the radiation generators100and110, respectively, and output a radiographic image to the image acquisition unit200in the control unit120. The image acquisition unit200acquires the radiographic image (image data) output from each of the radiation detectors102and112.

(step S118) The image processing unit202performs the multiple types of image processing on the radiographic image according to image processing information set by the image processing setting unit204. For example, the image processing unit202performs the normal image processing, the black-and-white reversal processing, and the pneumoconiosis-specific processing on the radiographic image. In this embodiment, more than one type of image processing is performed on the single radiographic image to generate more than one radiographic image.

(step S120) If the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be associated with one another, the output unit206outputs, along with the same auxiliary information, the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing performed by the image processing unit202. The operations of the radiation imaging system for performing the multiple types of image processing terminates here.

As above, the radiation imaging system (a control apparatus) in the present disclosure includes: the image acquisition unit200that acquires radiographic images based on radiation; the image processing setting unit204that sets multiple types of image processing for a specific imaging procedure; an image processing unit202that performs the multiple types of image processing set by the image processing setting unit204on a radiographic image acquired in the specific imaging procedure to generate multiple radiographic images; and an association setting unit208that sets whether the multiple radiographic images generated by the image processing unit202are to be associated with one another. The association setting unit208can associate the multiple radiographic images generated by the image processing unit202with one another.

The radiation imaging system (the control apparatus) can thus store the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing in association with one another. Because the operator can retrieve the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing in an associated manner, the efficiency of diagnosis can be increased.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment will now be described with reference toFIGS. 11 and 12. What is different from the first embodiment is that multiple storage apparatuses710and712are provided for storing radiographic images and the association setting unit208sets the association of the radiographic images for each of the storage apparatuses710and712.

FIG. 11is a diagram illustrating a configuration of outputting radiographic images in the radiation imaging system. PACSs134A and134B have the function of storing all radiographic images. The PACSs134A and134B include the storage apparatuses710and712, respectively.

FIG. 12illustrates a setting screen for the image processing setting unit204and the association setting unit208, displayed on the display unit124. An “Edit association” menu314is set for each imaging procedure (the protocol name and the sensor name).

The “Edit association” menu314is available if multiple types of image processing are to be performed on a single radiographic image. In this embodiment, as shown inFIG. 12, the functions of the “Edit association” menu314are made selectable if the icon304for performing the pneumoconiosis-specific processing or the icon306for performing the black-and-white reversal processing is pressed.

The “Edit association” menu314shows association setting icons318and320for the respective storage apparatuses (A)710and (B)712for setting whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be grouped together.

For the storage apparatus (A)710, the association setting icon318is displayed for setting whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be grouped together. InFIG. 12, the box of the association setting icon318is checked, which enables the setting of associating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing with one another as a group.

For the storage apparatus (B)712, the association setting icon320is displayed for setting whether the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are to be grouped together. InFIG. 12, the box of the association setting icon320is unchecked, which enables the setting of dissociating the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing from one another as separate groups.

In this manner, the association of the radiographic images can be set for each of the storage apparatuses710and712. The storage manner can therefore be configured according to the use environment of the radiation imaging system.

If the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing are associated with one another, the display unit124can sequentially display the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing. That is, the display unit124can switch to another radiographic image every predetermined time period to display the images like a multi-frame video. This allows the operator to view the radiographic images resulting from the multiple types of image processing without operating the operation unit122.

According to the first and second embodiments, radiographic images resulting from multiple types of image processing can be stored in association with one another.

Other Embodiments

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-207505, filed Nov. 2, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.