Medical image providing apparatus and medical image processing method of the same

Provided is a medical image providing apparatus including: a display configured to display a first image including an object; a user interface (UI) configured to output a first list comprising at least one protocol applied while scanning the object in response to in response to a first region included in the first image being selected, and to receive a selection of a first protocol included in the first list; and a controller configured to control to overlay and display a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol, on the first region of the first image.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2014-0005206, filed on Jan. 15, 2014, and 10-2014-0156244, filed on Nov. 11, 2014, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

One or more exemplary embodiments relate to a medical image providing apparatus for displaying a screen including a medical image and a medical image processing method of the same.

2. Description of the Related Art

A medical imaging apparatus is an apparatus used to obtain an image of an internal structure of an object. The medical imaging apparatus is a noninvasive examination apparatus that photographs and processes structural details in a body, internal tissues of the body, and flow of body fluids to show them to a user. The user, such as a doctor, may determine a health condition of a patient and diagnose a disease by using a medical image output from the medical imaging apparatus.

Examples of the medical imaging apparatus include a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus for providing a magnetic resonance (MR) image, a computed tomography (CT) apparatus, an X-ray apparatus, and an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus.

An MRI apparatus is an apparatus for photographing a subject by using a magnetic field, and is widely used to accurately diagnose diseases since the MRI apparatus provides three-dimensional images showing bones, discs, joints, nerves, and ligaments at a desired angle.

The MRI apparatus obtains an MR signal by using a permanent magnet, a gradient coil, and a high frequency multi-coil including radio frequency (RF) coils. Then, the MRI apparatus samples the MR signal to restore the MR image.

A CT apparatus, which is one of the medical imaging apparatuses, is widely used to accurately diagnose a disease since the CT apparatus is capable of providing a sectional image of an object and is capable of distinctively expressing an internal structure, for example, organs such as a kidney and lungs, of the object, as compared to a general X-ray apparatus.

The CT apparatus irradiates an X-ray on the object, detects the X-ray that passed through the object, and then restores an image by using the detected X-ray.

As described above, medical images obtained by using various medical imaging apparatuses express an object in various methods according to types and photographing methods of the various medical imaging apparatuses.

A doctor determines a disease or a health disorder of a patient by reading a medical image. Accordingly, a medical imaging apparatus for diagnosis may be provided to the doctor such that the doctor may select and read a suitable medical image to diagnose the patient.

SUMMARY

One or more exemplary embodiments include a medical image providing apparatus for providing a medical image suitable for an intention of a user and a medical image processing method of the same.

One or more exemplary embodiments include a medical image providing apparatus for providing a medical image or a user interface (UI) screen including the medical image such that a user easily diagnoses a disease of a patient and a medical image processing method of the same.

According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment, a medical image providing apparatus includes: a display unit for displaying a first image including an object; a UI unit for, outputting a first list comprising at least one protocol applied while scanning the object in response to a first region included in the first image being selected, and receiving a selection on a first protocol included in the first list; and a control unit for controlling a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol to be overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image.

The second image may be an image corresponding to a predetermined region of the object included in the first region.

The at least one protocol may be a protocol related to a pulse sequence applied to obtain the image data.

The protocol may include a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol.

The protocol may include a computed tomography (CT) protocol.

The UI unit may receive a setting on a region of interest (ROI) as the first region in the first image from a user.

The control unit may automatically extract a target region for diagnosis from the first image and select the target region as the first region.

The control unit may automatically perform an organ segmentation on the first image to obtain a segmented region and select the segmented region as the first region.

The control unit may automatically extract a disease suspected region from the first image and select the disease suspected region as the first region.

The first list may include a first sub-list comprising the at least one protocol, and a second sub-list including at least one manipulation menu item for manipulating the first region of the first image.

The UI unit may control the first and second sub-lists to be separately displayed.

The first list may include a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) list including at least one protocol for scanning an MRI image, and a computed tomography (CT) list including at least one protocol for scanning a CT image.

The UI unit may generate at least one manipulation menu item for respectively manipulating at least one reconstructed image reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying each of the at least one protocol, and add and output the at least one manipulation menu item to the at least one protocol included in the first list.

Each item included in the first list may include a protocol and a reconstructed image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the protocol.

The medical image providing apparatus may further include a memory for storing at least one piece of image data obtained by applying each of the at least one protocol.

The control unit may read image data corresponding to the first protocol from the memory and generate the second image by using the read image data in response to the first protocol is selected.

The medical image providing apparatus may further include a memory for storing at least one reconstructed image respectively reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying the at least one protocol.

The control unit may read a reconstructed image corresponding to the first protocol from the memory, and control the second image to be overlaid on the first region by using the read reconstructed image in response to the first protocol being selected.

The at least one protocol may include at least one of an MRI protocol, a T1 period-related protocol, a T2 period-related protocol, a diffusion protocol, and a perfusion protocol.

The first list may include at least one additional item obtained or calculated by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying the at least one protocol.

The additional item may include at least one of a cerebral blood volume (CBV) map, a cerebral blood flow (CBF) map, a histogram equalization image, an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, and a trace map.

The UI unit may add and output a sub-list including at least one reconstructed image according to at least one point in time, which corresponds to a protocol included in each item included in the first list, to each item included in the first list.

The UI unit may include an input device for receiving a predetermined command from a user, and the control unit may control a preview menu on a reconstructed image corresponding to a predetermined item included in the first list in response to the predetermined item being focused on by the input device.

The UI unit may receive a selection on a protocol corresponding to each of the plurality of first regions in response to a plurality of the first regions that are a plurality of partial regions included in the first image being selected.

The first list may include at least one of a plurality of anatomical image items corresponding to a protocol, and a plurality of functional image items corresponding to a protocol.

The first list may separately display the plurality of anatomical image items and the plurality of functional image items.

The control unit may control a type of an image displayed in the first region and a type of the first image to be mutually switched and displayed, according to a user request.

The control unit may change a type of an image overlaid on the first region of which a location is changed in response to the second image being overlaid on the first region of the first image and then a location of the first region being requested to be changed.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image providing apparatus includes: a display unit for displaying a first image including an object; a UI unit for, outputting a first list including at least one reconstructed image that is reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol applied while scanning the object in response to a first region included in the first image being selected, and receiving a selection on a first reconstructed image included in the first list; and a control unit for controlling a second image to be overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image, by using the first reconstructed image.

The control unit may control a region of the first reconstructed image, which corresponds to the first region, to be overlaid and displayed on the first region.

The at least one reconstructed image included in the first list may be a whole image corresponding to the object.

The at least one reconstructed image included in the first list may be a partial image corresponding to a predetermined region of the object, which is included in the first region.

The at least one protocol may include at least one of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol related to a pulse sequence applied to obtain the image data and a computed tomography (CT) protocol applied during a CT scan.

The control unit may automatically extract or select the first region from the first image.

Each item included in the first list may include a first sub-list including the at least one reconstructed image, and a second sub-list including at least one manipulation menu item for manipulating the first region of the first image.

The UI unit may control the first and second sub-lists to be separately displayed.

The first list may include a second sub-list including at least one of an MRI list including at least one reconstructed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a protocol for scanning an MRI image, and a computed tomography (CT) list including at least one reconstructed CT image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a protocol for scanning a CT image.

The UI unit may generate at least one manipulation menu item for manipulating each of the at least one reconstructed image, and add and output the at least one manipulation menu item to each of the at least one reconstructed image included in the first list.

Each item included in the first list may include a protocol and a reconstructed image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the protocol.

The medical image providing apparatus may further include a memory for storing the at least one reconstructed image.

The at least one protocol may include at least one of an MRI protocol, a T1 period-related protocol, a T2 period-related protocol, a diffusion protocol, and a perfusion protocol.

The first list may include at least one additional image generated by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying the at least one protocol.

The additional image may include at least one of a cerebral blood volume (CBV) map, a cerebral blood flow (CBF) map, a histogram equalization image, an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, a trace map, a functional MRI (fMRI) map, a fractional anisotropy map, and a diffusion tractography image.

Each item of the first list may include at least one reconstructed image according to at least one point in time, which corresponds to a protocol included in each item of the first list.

When a second reconstructed image included in the first list is activated, the controller may control a second list including at least one reconstructed image related to a first protocol applied to obtain the second reconstructed image to be output.

The second list may include at least one reconstructed image that is obtained, calculated, or post-processed by using at least one piece of image data obtained according to the first protocol.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image providing apparatus includes: a display unit for displaying a first image including an object; a UI unit for receiving a selection on a first region in the first image; and a control unit for controlling a second image reconstructed by using first image data obtained by scanning the object to overlay and be displayed on the first region in the first image.

The control unit may select the predetermined protocol from among a plurality of protocols for scanning the object, based on a region of the object, which is included in the first region of the first image.

The medical image providing apparatus may further include a memory for storing at least one piece of image data obtained by scanning the object by applying at least one protocol.

The control unit may select the predetermined protocol from among the at least one protocol, read image data corresponding to the predetermined protocol from the memory, and generate the second image by using the read image data, based on the region of the object.

The medical image providing apparatus may further include a memory for storing at least one reconstructed image reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by scanning the object by applying at least one protocol.

The control unit may select the predetermined protocol from among the at least one protocol, read a reconstructed image corresponding to the predetermined protocol from the memory, and generate the second image by using the read reconstructed image, based on a region of the object, which is included in the first region.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image providing apparatus includes: a display unit for displaying a screen including a first list comprising at least one protocol applied while scanning an object; a UI unit for receiving a selection on a first protocol from the first list; and a control unit for setting a first region in a first image including an object after the selection on the first protocol, and controlling to overlay and display a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol, on the first region.

The UI unit may receive a setting on a region of interest (ROI) as the first region on the first image included in the screen from a user, and the control unit may set the ROI as the first region.

The first list may include at least one of a plurality of anatomical image items corresponding to a protocol, and a plurality of functional image items corresponding to a protocol.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image providing apparatus includes: a display unit for displaying a first image including an object; a UI unit for, outputting a first list including at least one of an image item obtained by using the first image in response to a first region being selected from the first image, and receiving a selection on a predetermined item included in the first list; and a control unit for controlling a second image corresponding to the predetermined item to be overlaid and displayed on the first region.

The first list may include at least one image item calculated or post-processed by using image data obtained by applying a protocol corresponding to the first image.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a method for controlling a medical image providing apparatus is provided. The method includes: displaying a first image comprising a medical image; displaying a first list comprising at least one item corresponding to a protocol applied to the first image in response to a first region of the first image being selected; and overlaying a second image on the first image in response to receiving a selection of an item from the first list.

The at least one item may include a protocol and a reconstructed image obtained by applying the protocol.

The at least one item corresponding to the protocol applied to the first image may include a first item corresponding to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol and second item corresponding to a computed tomography (CT) protocol.

The method may further include automatically extracting a disease suspected region from the first image and selecting the disease suspected region as the first region.

The method may further include performing organ segmentation on the first image to obtain a segmented region and selecting the segmented region as the first region.

The method may further include storing at least one reconstructed image obtained by applying the protocol.

The method may further include receiving a setting on a region of interest (ROI) as the first region in the first image from a user via the UI.

Each item included in the first list may include a protocol and a reconstructed image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the protocol.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image processing method includes: displaying a first image including an object; when a first region included in the first image is selected, outputting a first list including at least one protocol applied while scanning the object; receiving a selection of a first protocol included in the first list via a UI; and overlaying and displaying a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol, on the first region of the first image.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image processing method includes: displaying a first image including an object; when a first region included in the first image is selected, outputting a first list including at least one reconstructed image that is reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol applied while scanning the object; receiving a selection of a first reconstructed image included in the first list via a UI; and overlaying and displaying a second image on the first region of the first image by using the first reconstructed image.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image processing method includes: displaying a first image including an object; receiving a selection of a first region of the first image via a UI; and overlaying and displaying a second image reconstructed by using first image data obtained by scanning the object by applying a first protocol, on the first region of the first image.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image processing method including: displaying a screen including a first list comprising at least one protocol applied while scanning an object; receiving a selection of a first protocol from the first list via a UI; setting a first region in a first image including the object after the selection of the first protocol; and overlaying and displaying a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol, on the first region.

According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, a medical image processing method includes: displaying a first image including an object; when a first region is selected from the first image, outputting a first list including at least one image item obtained by using the first image; receiving a selection of a certain item included in the first list via a UI; and overlaying and displaying a second image corresponding to the certain item on the first region.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Terms used herein will now be briefly described and then one or more exemplary embodiments will be described in detail.

General terms widely used are selected while considering functions in one or more exemplary embodiments for terms used herein, but the terms used herein may differ according to intentions of one of ordinary skill in the art, precedents, or emergence of new technologies. In some cases, an applicant arbitrarily selects a term, and in this case, the meaning of the term will be described in detail herein. Accordingly, the terms shall be defined based on the meanings and details throughout the specification, rather than the simple names of the terms.

When something “includes” a component, another component may be further included unless specified otherwise. The term “unit” used in the present specification refers to a software component, or a hardware component such as FPGA or ASIC, and performs a certain function. However, the “unit” is not limited to software or hardware. The “unit” may be configured in an addressable storage medium and may be configured to be executed by one or more processors. Hence, the “unit” includes elements such as software elements, object-oriented software elements, class elements, and task elements, and processes, functions, attributes, procedures, sub-routines, segments of program codes, drivers, firmware, micro-codes, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functions provided in the elements and the units may be combined into a fewer number of elements and units or may be divided into a larger number of elements and units.

While describing one or more exemplary embodiments, descriptions about drawings that are not related to the one or more exemplary embodiments are omitted.

In the present specification, “image” may refer to multi-dimensional data composed of discrete image elements (e.g., pixels in a two-dimensional image and voxels in a three-dimensional image). For example, an image may include a medical image of an object acquired by an X-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasonic waves, or another medical image photographing apparatus.

Furthermore, in the present specification, “object” may include a person or an animal, or a part of a person or an animal. For example, the object may include the liver, the heart, the womb, the brain, a breast, the abdomen, or a blood vessel. Furthermore, the “object” may include a phantom. The phantom means a material having a volume that is approximately the intensity and effective atomic number of a living thing, and may include a sphere phantom having a property similar to a human body.

Furthermore, in the present specification, “user” refers to a medical professional, such as a doctor, a nurse, a medical laboratory technologist, and an engineer who repairs a medical apparatus, but the user is not limited thereto.

Furthermore, in the present specification, “MRI” refers to an image of an object obtained based on the nuclear magnetic resonance principle.

Furthermore, in the present specification, “pulse sequence” refers to continuity of signals repeatedly applied by an MRI apparatus. A pulse sequence may include a time parameter of a radio frequency (RF) pulse, for example, repetition time (TR) or echo time (TE).

Furthermore, in the present specification, “pulse sequence mimetic diagram” shows an order of events that occur in an MRI apparatus. For example, a pulse sequence mimetic diagram may be a diagram showing an RF pulse, a gradient magnetic field, or an MR signal according to time.

An MRI system is an apparatus for acquiring a sectional image of a part of an object by expressing, in a contrast comparison, a strength of a MR signal with respect to a radio frequency (RF) signal generated in a magnetic field having a specific strength. For example, if an RF signal that resonates only a specific atomic nucleus (for example, a hydrogen atomic nucleus) is irradiated for an instant onto the object that is placed in a strong magnetic field and then such irradiation stops, an MR signal is emitted from the specific atomic nucleus, and thus the MRI system may receive the MR signal and acquire an MR image. The MR signal denotes an RF signal emitted from the object. An intensity of the MR signal may be determined according to the density of a predetermined atom (for example, hydrogen) of the object, a relaxation time T1, a relaxation time T2, and blood flow.

MRI systems include different characteristics from those of other imaging apparatuses. Unlike imaging apparatuses such as CT apparatuses that acquire images dependent upon a direction of detection hardware, MRI systems may acquire two-dimensional (2D) images or three-dimensional (3D) volume images that are oriented toward an optional point. MRI systems do not expose objects and examinees to radiation, unlike CT apparatuses, X-ray apparatuses, position emission tomography (PET) apparatuses, and single photon emission CT (SPECT) apparatuses, may acquire images having high soft tissue contrast, and may acquire neurological images, intravascular images, musculoskeletal images, and oncologic images that are important to precisely describe abnormal tissue.

FIG. 1is a block diagram of a general MRI system. Referring toFIG. 1, the general MRI system may include a gantry20, a signal transceiver30, a monitoring unit40(e.g., a monitoring device, etc.), a system control unit50(e.g., a system controller, etc.), and an operating unit60(e.g., an input device, an output device, etc.).

The gantry20blocks electromagnetic waves generated by a main magnet22, a gradient coil24, and an RF coil26from being externally emitted. A magnetostatic field and a gradient magnetic field are formed at a bore in the gantry20, and an RF signal is irradiated towards an object10.

The main magnet22, the gradient coil24, and the RF coil26may be arranged in a predetermined direction of the gantry20. The predetermined direction may be a coaxial cylinder direction. The object10may be disposed on a table28that is capable of being inserted into a cylinder along a horizontal axis of the cylinder.

The main magnet22generates a magnetostatic field or a static magnetic field for aligning a direction of magnetic dipole moments of atomic nuclei of the object10in a constant direction. A precise and accurate MR image of the object10may be obtained when a magnetic field generated by the main magnet22is strong and uniform.

The gradient coil24includes X, Y, and Z coils for generating gradient magnetic fields in X-, Y-, and Z-axis directions crossing each other at right angles. The gradient coil24may provide location information of each region of the object10by differently inducing resonance frequencies according to the regions of the object10.

The RF coil26may irradiate an RF signal to a patient and receive an MR signal emitted from the object10. In detail, the RF coil26may transmit an RF signal at a same frequency as precessional motion to the patient towards atomic nuclei in precessional motion, stop transmitting the RF signal, and then receive an MR signal emitted from the object10.

For example, in order to transit an atomic nucleus from a low energy state to a high energy state, the RF coil26may generate and apply an electromagnetic wave signal having an RF corresponding to a type of the atomic nucleus, for example, an RF signal, to the object10. When the electromagnetic wave signal generated by the RF coil26is applied to the atomic nucleus, the atomic nucleus may transit from the low energy state to the high energy state. Then, when electromagnetic waves generated by the RF coil26disappear, the atomic nucleus, on which the electromagnetic waves were applied, transits from the high energy state to the low energy state, thereby emitting electromagnetic waves having a Larmor frequency. In other words, when the applying of the electromagnetic wave signal to the atomic nucleus is stopped, an energy level of the atomic nucleus is changed from a high energy level to a low energy level, and thus the atomic nucleus may emit electromagnetic waves having a Larmor frequency. The RF coil26may receive electromagnetic wave signals from atomic nuclei of the object10.

The RF coil26may be realized as one RF transmitting and receiving coil having both a function of generating electromagnetic waves having a wireless frequency corresponding to a type of an atomic nucleus and a function of receiving electromagnetic waves emitted from an atomic nucleus. Alternatively, the RF coil26may be realized as a transmission RF coil having a function of generating electromagnetic waves having a wireless frequency corresponding to a type of an atomic nucleus, and a reception RF coil having a function of receiving electromagnetic waves emitted from an atomic nucleus.

The RF coil26may be fixed to the gantry20or may be detachable. When the RF coil26is detachable, the RF coil26may be an RF coil for a part of the object, such as a head RF coil, a chest RF coil, a leg RF coil, a neck RF coil, a shoulder RF coil, a wrist RF coil, or an ankle RF coil.

The RF coil26may communicate with an external apparatus via wires and/or wirelessly and may also perform dual tune communication according to a communication frequency band.

The RF coil26may be a birdcage coil, a surface coil, or a transverse electromagnetic (TEM) coil according to structures.

The RF coil26may be a transmission exclusive coil, a reception exclusive coil, or a transmission and reception coil according to methods of transmitting and receiving an RF signal.

The RF coil26may be an RF coil in any one of various channels, such as 16 channels, 32 channels, 72 channels, and 144 channels.

Hereinafter, it is assumed that the RF coil26is an RF multi-coil including N coils respectively corresponding to a plurality of channels, i.e., first through N-th channels. Herein, the RF multi-coil may also be referred to as a multi-channel RF coil.

The gantry20may further include a display29disposed outside the gantry20and a display (not shown) disposed inside the gantry20. The gantry20may provide predetermined information to the user or the object through the display29and the display respectively disposed outside and inside the gantry20.

The signal transceiver30may control the gradient magnetic field formed inside the gantry20, i.e., in the bore, according to a predetermined MR sequence, and control transmission and reception of an RF signal and an MR signal.

The signal transceiver30may include a gradient amplifier32, a transmission and reception switch34, an RF transmitter36, and an RF receiver38.

The gradient amplifier32drives the gradient coil24in the gantry20and may supply a pulse signal for generating a gradient magnetic field to the gradient coil24according to control of a gradient magnetic field controller54. By controlling the pulse signal supplied from the gradient amplifier32to the gradient coil24, gradient magnetic fields in X-, Y-, and Z-axis directions may be composed.

The RF transmitter36and the RF receiver38may drive the RF coil26. The RF transmitter36may supply an RF pulse at a Larmor frequency to the RF coil26, and the RF receiver38may receive an MR signal received by the RF coil26.

The transmission and reception switch34may adjust transmitting and receiving directions of the RF signal and the MR signal. For example, the RF signal may be irradiated to the object10through the RF coil26during a transmission mode, and the MR signal may be received by the object10through the RF coil26during a reception mode. The transmission and reception switch34may be controlled by a control signal from an RF controller56.

The monitoring unit40may monitor or control the gantry20or devices mounted on the gantry20. The monitoring unit40may include a system monitoring unit42(e.g., a system monitoring device, etc.), an object monitoring unit44(e.g., an object monitoring device, etc.), a table controller46, and a display controller48.

The system monitoring unit42may monitor and control a state of a magnetostatic field, a state of a gradient magnetic field, a state of an RF signal, a state of an RF coil, a state of a table, a state of a device measuring body information of an object, a power supply state, a state of a thermal exchanger, and a state of a compressor.

The object monitoring unit44monitors a state of the object10. In detail, the object monitoring unit44may include a camera for observing movement or position of the object10, a respiration measurer for measuring the respiration of the object10, an ECG measurer for measuring ECG of the object10, or a temperature measurer for measuring a temperature of the object10.

The table controller46controls movement of the table28where the object10is positioned. The table controller46may control the movement of the table28according to sequence control of a sequence controller52. For example, during moving imaging of the object10, the table controller46may continuously or discontinuously move the table28according to the sequence control of the sequence controller52, and thus the object10may be photographed in a larger field of view FOV than that of the gantry20.

The display controller48controls the display29and the display respectively outside and inside the gantry20. In detail, the display controller48may turn on or off the display29and the display outside and inside the gantry20, and may control a screen to be output on the display29and the display. When a speaker is located inside or outside the gantry20, the display controller48may turn on or off the speaker or control the speaker to output sound.

The system control unit50may include the sequence controller52for controlling a sequence of signals formed in the gantry20, and a gantry controller58for controlling the gantry20and devices mounted on the gantry20.

The sequence controller52may include the gradient magnetic field controller54for controlling the gradient amplifier32, and the RF controller56for controlling the RF transmitter36, the RF receiver38, and the transmission and reception switch34. The sequence controller52may control the gradient amplifier32, the RF transmitter36, the RF receiver38, and the transmission and reception switch34according to a pulse sequence received from the operating unit60. Here, the pulse sequence includes all information required to control the gradient amplifier32, the RF transmitter36, the RF receiver38, and the transmission and reception switch34, for example, may include information about strength, an application time, and an application timing of a pulse signal applied to the gradient coil24.

The operating unit60requests the system control unit50to transmit pulse sequence information while controlling an overall operation of the general MRI system.

The operating unit60may include an image processor62for processing an MR signal received from the RF receiver38, an output unit64(e.g., an output device, etc.), and an input unit66(e.g., an input device, etc.).

The image processor62processes an MR signal received from the RF receiver38so as to generate MR image data of the object10.

The image processor62performs any one of various signal processes, such as amplification, frequency transformation, phase detection, low frequency amplification, and filtering, on an MR signal received by the RF receiver38.

The image processor62may arrange digital data in a k space of a memory and rearrange the digital data into image data via 2D or 3D Fourier transformation.

The image processor62may perform a composition process or difference calculation process on image data if required. The composition process may include an addition process on a pixel or a maximum intensity projection (MIP) process. The image processor62may not only store rearranged image data but also image data on which a composition process or difference calculation process is performed, in a memory (not shown) or an external server.

Signal processes applied to MR signals by the image processor62may be performed in parallel. For example, a signal process may be performed on a plurality of MR signals received by a multi-channel RF coil in parallel so as to rearrange the plurality of MR signals as image data.

The output unit64may output image data generated or rearranged by the image processor62to the user. The output unit64may output information required for the user to manipulate the MRI system, such as user interface (UI), user information, or object information. The output unit64may include a speaker, a printer, a cathode-ray tube (CRT) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), an organic light-emitting device (OLED) display, a field emission display (FED), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), a digital light processing (DLP) display, a PFD display, a 3-dimensional (3D) display, or a transparent display, or any one of various output devices that are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

The user may input object information, parameter information, a scan condition, a pulse sequence, or information about image composition or difference calculation by using the input unit66. The input unit66may include a keyboard, a mouse, a track ball, a voice recognizer, a gesture recognizer, or a touch screen, or may include any one of other various input devices that are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

The signal transceiver30, the monitoring unit40, the system control unit50, and the operating unit60are separate components inFIG. 1, but it is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that functions of the signal transceiver30, the monitoring unit40, the system control unit50, and the operating unit60may be performed by another component. For example, the image processor62converts an MR signal received by the RF receiver38into a digital signal, but such a conversion to a digital signal may be directly performed by the RF receiver38or the RF coil26.

The gantry20, the RF coil26, the signal transceiver30, the monitoring unit40, the system control unit50, and the operating unit60may be connected to each other via wires or wirelessly, and when they are connected wirelessly, the general MRI system may further include an apparatus (not shown) for synchronizing clocks therebetween. Communication between the gantry20, the RF coil26, the signal transceiver30, the monitoring unit40, the system control unit50, and the operating unit60may be performed by using a high-speed digital interface, such as low voltage differential signaling (LVDS), asynchronous serial communication, such as universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART), a low-delay network protocol, such as an error synchronous serial communication or controller area network (CAN), or optical communication, or any other communication method that is well known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

FIG. 2is a schematic diagram of a general CT system100. Referring toFIG. 2, the CT system100may include a gantry102, a table105, an X-ray generating unit106(e.g., a ray generator, etc.), and an X-ray detecting unit108(e.g., an x-ray detector, etc.).

Since a tomography system, such as a CT system, is capable of providing a cross-sectional image of an object, the CT system may express an inner structure (e.g., an organ such as a kidney, a lung, etc.) of the object without an overlap therebetween, compared to a general X-ray capturing apparatus.

In detail, the tomography system may include any tomography apparatus, such as a CT apparatus, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) apparatus, or a positron emission tomography (PET)-CT apparatus.

Herein, a “tomography image” may be an image that is obtained by a tomography apparatus by scanning an object, and formed by using data projected after irradiating a beam, such as an X-ray, on the object. In detail, a “CT image” may be a composite image of a plurality of X-ray images obtained by capturing an object while rotating around at least one axis with respect to the object.

Hereinafter, the CT system100ofFIGS. 2 and 3will be described as an example of the tomography system.

The CT system100may obtain a plurality of pieces of image data with a thickness not more than 2 mm for several tens to several hundreds of times per second and then may process the plurality of pieces of image data, so that the CT system100may provide a relatively accurate cross-sectional image of the object. According to the related art, only a horizontal cross-sectional image of the object can be obtained, but this issue has been overcome due to various image reconstruction methods. Examples of 3D image reconstruction methods are:

A shade surface display (SSD) method: The SSD method is an initial 3D imaging method that displays only voxels having a predetermined Hounsfield Units (HU) value.

A maximum intensity projection (MIP)/minimum intensity projection (MinIP) method: The MIP/MinIP method is a 3D imaging method that displays only voxels having the greatest or smallest HU value from among voxels that construct an image.

A volume rendering (VR) method: The VR method is an imaging method capable of adjusting a color and transmittance of voxels that construct an image, according to interest areas.

A virtual endoscopy method: This method allows an endoscopy observation in a 3D image that is reconstructed by using the VR method or the SSD method.

A multi-planar reformation (MPR) method: The MPR method is used to reconstruct an image into a different cross-sectional image. A user may reconstruct an image in every desired direction.

An editing method: This method involves editing adjacent voxels so as to allow a user to easily observe an interest area in volume rendering.

A voxel of interest (VOI) method: The VOI method displays only a selected area in volume rendering.

The CT system100according to an exemplary embodiment will now be described with reference toFIG. 3. The CT system100may include devices having various forms.

The gantry102may include the X-ray generating unit106and the X-ray detecting unit108.

An object10may be positioned on the table105.

The table105may move in a predetermined direction (e.g., at least one of up, down, right, and left directions) during a CT imaging procedure. The table105may tilt or rotate by a predetermined degree in a predetermined direction.

The gantry102may also tilt by a predetermined degree in a predetermined direction.

FIG. 3is a diagram of a structure of the CT system100, according to an exemplary embodiment.

The CT system100may include the gantry102, the table105, a control unit118(e.g., a controller, etc.), a storage unit124(e.g., a storage, a memory, etc.), an image processing unit126(e.g., an image processor, etc.), a UI unit128(e.g., a user interface, etc.), a display unit130(e.g. a display, etc.), and a communication unit132(e.g., a transceiver, etc.).

As described above, the object10may be positioned on the table105. In the present exemplary embodiment, the table105may move in a predetermined direction (e.g., at least one of up, down, right, and left directions), and movement of the table105may be controlled by the control unit118.

The gantry102may include a rotating frame104, the X-ray generating unit106, the X-ray detecting unit108, a rotation driving unit110, a data acquisition system (DAS)116, and a data transmitting unit120.

The gantry102may include the rotating frame104having a loop shape capable of rotating with respect to a predetermined rotation axis RA. The rotating frame104may have a disc shape.

The rotating frame104may include the X-ray generating unit106and the X-ray detecting unit108that face each other so as to have predetermined field of views FOVs. The rotating frame104may also include an anti-scatter grid114. The anti-scatter grid114may be positioned between the X-ray generating unit106and the X-ray detecting unit108.

In a medical imaging system, X-ray radiation that reaches a detector (or a photosensitive film) includes not only attenuated primary radiation that forms a valuable image but also includes scattered radiation that deteriorates a quality of an image. In order to transmit the primary radiation and to attenuate the scattered radiation, the anti-scatter grid114may be positioned between a patient and the detector (or the photosensitive film).

For example, the anti-scatter grid114may be formed by alternately stacking lead foil strips and an interspace material such as a solid polymer material, solid polymer, or a fiber composite material. However, formation of the anti-scatter grid114is not limited thereto.

The rotating frame104may receive a driving signal from the rotation driving unit110and may rotate the X-ray generating unit106and the X-ray detecting unit108by a predetermined rotation speed. The rotating frame104may receive the driving signal and power from the rotation driving unit110while the rotating frame104contacts the rotation driving unit110via a slip ring (not shown). The rotating frame104may receive the driving signal and power from the rotation driving unit110via wireless communication.

The X-ray generating unit106may receive a voltage and current from a power distribution unit (PDU) (not shown) via a slip ring (not shown) and then a high voltage generating unit (not shown), and then may generate and emit an X-ray. When the high voltage generating unit applies a predetermined voltage (hereinafter, referred as the tube voltage) to the X-ray generating unit106, the X-ray generating unit106may generate X-rays having a plurality of energy spectrums that correspond to the tube voltage.

The X-ray generated by the X-ray generating unit106may have a predetermined form due to a collimator112and then may be emitted.

The X-ray detecting unit108may be positioned facing the X-ray generating unit106. The X-ray detecting unit108may include a plurality of X-ray detecting devices. Each of the plurality of X-ray detecting devices may establish one channel but one or more exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

The X-ray detecting unit108may detect the X-ray that is generated by the X-ray generating unit106and that is transmitted via the object10, and may generate an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the detected X-ray.

The X-ray detecting unit108may include an indirect-type X-ray detector for detecting radiation after converting the radiation into light, and a direct-type X-ray detector for detecting radiation after directly converting the radiation into electric charges. The indirect-type X-ray detector may use a scintillator. The direct-type X-ray detector may use a photon counting detector. The DAS116may be connected to the X-ray detecting unit108. The electrical signal generated by the X-ray detecting unit108may be collected via a wired or wireless connection by the DAS116. The electrical signal generated by the X-ray detecting unit108may also be provided to an analog-to-digital converter (not shown) via an amplifier (not shown).

According to a slice thickness or the number of slices, only some of a plurality of pieces of data collected by the X-ray detecting unit108may be provided to the image processing unit126via the data transmitting unit120, or the image processing unit126may select only some of the plurality of pieces of data.

The digital signal may be provided to the image processing unit126via the data transmitting unit120. The digital signal may be via wires or wirelessly provided to the image processing unit126.

The control unit118may control an operation of each module in the CT system100. For example, the control unit118may control operations of the table105, the rotation driving unit110(e.g., a rotation driver, etc.), the collimator112, the DAS116, the storage unit124, the image processing unit126, the input unit128, the display unit130, the communication unit132, or the like.

The image processing unit126may receive data (e.g., pure data before a processing operation), which is obtained from the DAS116, via the data transmitting unit120(e.g., a data transmitter, etc.), and may perform pre-processing.

The pre-processing may include a process of correcting sensitivity irregularity between channels, a process of correcting a signal loss due to a rapid decrease of signal strength or due to an X-ray absorbing material such as metal, or the like.

Data output from the image processing unit126may be referred as raw data or projection data. The projection data and image-capturing conditions (e.g., the tube voltage, an image-capturing angle, etc.) when obtaining the data may be stored together in the storage unit124.

The projection data may be a group of data values that correspond to the intensity of the X-ray that passes through the object10. For convenience of description, it is assumed that a group of a plurality of pieces of projection data that are simultaneously obtained from all channels by a same image-capturing degree is referred as a projection data set.

The storage unit124may include at least one storage medium from among a flash memory-type storage medium, a hard disk-type storage medium, a multimedia card micro-type storage medium, card-type memories (e.g., an SD card, an XD memory, and the like), Random Access Memory (RAM), Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) magnetic memory, a magnetic disc, and an optical disc.

The image processing unit126may reconstruct a cross-sectional image with respect to the object10by using the projection data set. The cross-sectional image may be a 3D image. In other words, the image processing unit126may reconstruct the 3D image of the object10by using a cone beam reconstruction method or the like, based on the projection data set.

The UI unit128may receive an external input with respect to an X-ray tomography imaging condition, an image processing condition, or the like. For example, the X-ray tomography imaging condition may include tube voltages, energy value setting with respect to a plurality of X-rays, selection of an image-capturing protocol, selection of an image reconstruction method, setting of a field of view (FOV) area, the number of slices, a slice thickness, parameter setting with respect to image post-processing, or the like. The image processing condition may include the resolution of an image, attenuation coefficient setting with respect to the image, setting of an image combining ratio, or the like.

The UI unit128may include a device for receiving a predetermined input from an external source. For example, the UI unit128may include a microphone, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a touch pad, a touch pen, a voice recognition device, a gesture recognition device, or the like.

The display unit130may display an X-ray tomography image reconstructed by the image processing unit126.

Exchanges of data, power, or the like between the aforementioned elements may be performed by using at least one of wired communication, wireless communication, and optical communication.

The communication unit132may perform communication with an external device, an external medical apparatus, etc. via a server134or the like. The communication will now be described with reference toFIG. 4.

FIG. 4is a block diagram of the communication unit132according to an exemplary embodiment.

The communication unit132ofFIG. 4may be connected to at least one of the gantry20, the signal transceiver30, the monitoring unit40, the system control unit50, and the operating unit60ofFIG. 1. The communication unit132may exchange data with a hospital server or other medical apparatuses in a hospital connected via a picture archiving and communication system (PACS), according to a digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) standard.

As shown inFIG. 4, the communication unit132may communicate with the server134, an external medical apparatus136, or an external portable device138by being connected to a network301wirelessly or via wires.

In detail, the communication unit132may transmit or receive data related to diagnosing an object, via the network301, and may also transmit or receive a medical image captured by the external medical apparatus136, such as a CT, an ultrasonic apparatus, or an X-ray apparatus.

The communication unit132ofFIG. 4may be included in the CT system100ofFIG. 3. In this case, the communication unit132ofFIG. 4and the communication unit132ofFIG. 3are the same.

When the communication unit132is included in the CT system100, the communication unit132may operate as follows.

The communication unit132may be connected to the network301wirelessly or via wires and therefore may perform communication with the server134, the external medical apparatus136, or the external portable device138. The communication unit132may exchange data with a hospital server or other medical apparatuses in a hospital connected via PACS. The communication unit132may also perform data communication with the external portable device138or the like, according to a DICOM standard.

The communication unit132may transmit or receive data related to diagnosing the object10, via the network301. The communication unit132may also transmit or receive a medical image obtained from the external medical apparatus136such as an MRI apparatus, an X-ray apparatus, or the like.

Furthermore, the communication unit132may receive a diagnosis history or a medical treatment schedule about a patient from the server134and may use the diagnosis history or the medical treatment schedule in a clinical diagnosis for the patient. The communication unit132may also perform data communication with not only the server134or the external medical apparatus136in a hospital but also with the external portable device138of a user or patient.

The communication unit132may also transmit information about a device error, information about a quality control status, or the like to a system manager or a service manager via the network301, and may receive feedback corresponding to the information.

As described above, medical images obtained by various medical image providing apparatuses express an object in various methods according to types and photographing methods of the medical image providing apparatuses. Characteristics of the medical images differ according to the types and photographing methods of the medical image providing apparatuses. For example, cancer tissue may be easily determined in one medical image and blood vessels may be easily determined in another medical image.

Accordingly, an apparatus for providing a medical image suitable to an intention of a user may be provided by considering a region to be read from the medical image.

Hereinafter, a medical image providing apparatus for providing, when a predetermined region is selected from a medical image, a medical image suitable to an intention of a user in the selected predetermined region, according to one or more exemplary embodiments will be described with reference toFIGS. 5 through 23.

A medical image providing apparatus according to one or more exemplary embodiments may be any image processing apparatus that is capable of displaying, storing, and/or processing a medical image.

In detail, the medical image providing apparatus according to one or more exemplary embodiments may be included in a tomography system, such as the general MRI system or the CT system100described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 4. Alternatively, the medical image providing apparatus may be included in the server134, the external medical apparatus136, or the external portable device138connected to at least one tomography system, such as the MRI system ofFIG. 1and the CT system100, via the network301. Here, the server134, the external medical apparatus136, or the external portable device138may be an image processing apparatus capable of displaying, storing, or processing at least one of an MRI image and a tomography image. For example, the medical image providing apparatus according to one or more exemplary embodiment may be in a form of the server134, the external medical apparatus136, or the external portable device138, and may be a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) capable of displaying, storing, or processing at least one of an MRI image and a tomography image.

Alternatively, the medical image providing apparatus may be included in any medical imaging system for reconstructing an image by using data obtained by scanning an object, aside from the MRI system or the CT system100, or may be connected to any medical imaging system.

FIG. 5is a block diagram of a medical image providing apparatus500according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 5, the medical image providing apparatus500includes a control unit510(e.g., a controller, etc.), a display unit520(e.g., a display), and a UI unit530(e.g., a user interface, etc.).

When the medical image providing apparatus500is included in the general MRI system ofFIG. 1, the medical imaging apparatus500may equally correspond to the operating unit60. In detail, the control unit510, the display unit520, and the UI unit530may respectively correspond to the image processor62, the output unit64, and the input unit66ofFIG. 1. Accordingly, descriptions of the medical image providing apparatus500that are the same as those made with respect toFIG. 1are not repeated.

Alternatively, when the medical image providing apparatus500is included in the CT system100ofFIG. 3, the control unit510, the display unit520, and the UI unit530may respectively correspond to the image processing unit126or the control unit118, the display unit130, and the UI unit128ofFIG. 3. Accordingly descriptions of the medical image providing apparatus500that are the same as those made with respect toFIG. 3are not repeated.

Alternatively, the medical image providing apparatus500may be included in the server134, the external medical apparatus136, or the external portable device138ofFIG. 4.

The display unit520displays a first image including an object. Here, the first image is a medical image of the object and may be any medical image captured to diagnose a disease, such as a tomography image like an MRI image or a CT image, an X-ray image, or an ultrasound image. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the first image is an MRI image of a head of a patient.

When a first region in the first image is selected, the UI unit530outputs a first list including at least one protocol applied while scanning the object, and receives a selection on a first protocol included in the first list. Here, the first list output by the UI unit530is displayed through the display unit520. In detail, the first list may include at least one CT protocol. Alternatively, the first list may include at least one MRI protocol. Alternatively, the first list may include at least one MRI protocol and at least one CT protocol.

Alternatively, the first list may include a list of images corresponding to a protocol applied while scanning the object.

In detail, the UI unit530generates a UI screen including the first list and outputs the UI screen to the display unit520. Then, the display unit520may display the UI screen. A user may see the first list displayed through the display unit520and select a predetermined protocol through the UI unit530.

In detail, the UI unit530may receive a predetermined request, a predetermined command, or other data from the user.

For example, the UI unit530may include an input device including a mouse, a keyboard, or hard keys for a data input. For example, the user may select the first region in the first image by manipulating at least one of the mouse, the keyboard, or another input device included in the UI unit530.

Alternatively, the UI unit530may be a touch pad. In detail, the UI unit530may include a touch pad (not shown) combined to a display panel (not shown) included in the display unit520, such that the UI screen is output on the display panel. Then, when a predetermined command is input through the UI screen, the touch pad detects the predetermined command to recognize the predetermined command input by the user.

In detail, when the UI unit530is a touch pad and the user touches a predetermined point of the UI screen, the UI unit530detects the touched point. Then, the UI unit530may transmit information about the touched point to the control unit510. The control unit510may recognize a request or command of the user corresponding to a menu option displayed on the touched point, and perform the recognized request or command.

A first example of a method of imaging a medical image includes a method of photographing an object by irradiating a beam, such as an X-ray, on the object, like an imaging method of an X-ray image. Here, the object is imaged regardless of a photographing technique or a scan mode. Here, the method may image the object without having to perform a separate restoring or calculating operation to reconstruct an image.

A second example includes a method of imaging an object by variously applying photographing techniques or scan modes while photographing the object, such as an MRI or CT image.

In the second example, images having different characteristics may be obtained even when the same region of a body is photographed, by using various variables considerable while scanning the object. In other words, an image suitable to a purpose may be obtained by changing a scan mode according to uses or purposes. Here, the method may perform a separate restoring or calculating operation to reconstruct a target image.

Here, a technique applied while capturing a medical image by scanning an object is referred to as a ‘scan protocol’ or a ‘protocol’, and will now be referred to as a ‘protocol’ herein. Image data may be obtained by applying a protocol may be used to generate a medical image that is a reconstructed image via image reconstruction. Alternatively, calculated or post-processed data or image may be generated by using image data obtained by applying a protocol.

In an MRI system, an object is scanned by applying various protocols, and an image of the object is reconstructed by using an MR signal obtained accordingly. Hereinafter, data obtained by scanning the object, for example, an MR signal or K-space data, will be referred to as image data, and an image of the object, which is reconstructed by using image data, will be referred to as a reconstructed image.

In a CT system, an object may be scanned by applying different protocols based on whether a contrast medium is administered. Also, in the CT system, obtained image data may be sinogram or projection data, and a reconstructed image may be generated by using the obtained image data.

A protocol will be described in detail later with reference toFIGS. 7A and 7B.

The control unit510may control a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol to be overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image.

Alternatively, a plurality of partial regions may be selected from the first image. In this case, a predetermined protocol may be individually selected for the partial regions. Then, the control unit510may overlay and display reconstructed images corresponding to the individual protocols selected for the partial regions, on the first region of the first image.

The control unit510, the display unit520, and the UI unit530may be connected to each other wirelessly or via wires, and may exchange data therebetween.

FIG. 6is a block diagram of a medical image providing apparatus600according to another exemplary embodiment. The medical image providing apparatus600ofFIG. 6further includes a memory640, compared to the medical image providing apparatus500.

In detail, a control unit610, a display unit620, and a UI unit630of the medical image providing apparatus600respectively correspond to the control unit510, the display unit520, and the UI unit530of the medical image providing apparatus500. Accordingly, descriptions about the medical image providing apparatus600that are the same as those of the medical image providing apparatus500ofFIG. 5are not repeated.

The memory640may store various types of data related to a medical image. In detail, the memory640may store at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol.

The memory640may also store at least one reconstructed image that is reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol.

The medical image providing apparatuses500and600will now be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 7A through 23.

FIG. 7Aillustrates a plurality of MR images reconstructed by scanning an object according to different protocols.

An MRI protocol is a protocol related to a pulse sequence of an MR signal. In detail, a protocol for obtaining an MRI reconstructed image is related to a pulse sequence of a signal applied to an object while scanning the object, or a signal generated correspondingly to an applied pulse sequence, and may be classified according to a predetermined period of a pulse sequence.

For example, an MR signal is generated correspondingly to an RF signal applied to an object through the RF coil26included in the MRI system, while scanning the object.

In a pulse sequence of an RF signal, a time consumed by a nuclear spin to return back up to 63% of original magnetization is referred to as a T1 relaxation time, and a time consumed by the nuclear spin to discharge down to 37% of the original magnetization is referred to as a T2 relaxation time. The MRI protocol is related to at least one of the T1 relaxation time and the T2 relaxation time. Hereinafter, the T1 relaxation time is referred to as a ‘T1 period’ and the T2 relaxation time is referred to as a ‘T2 period’.

In detail, a protocol for obtaining an MRI reconstructed image may be largely classified into a T1 period-related protocol, a T2 period-related protocol, and a T1 and T2 period-related protocol. In detail, examples of the protocol include a protocol for obtaining a T1-weighted image (hereinafter, referred to as a T1W protocol), a protocol for obtaining a T2-weighted image (hereinafter, referred to as a T2W protocol), a protocol for obtaining a T1 flair image (hereinafter, referred to as a T1W flair protocol), a protocol for obtaining a T2 flair image (hereinafter, referred to as a T2W flair protocol), a protocol for obtaining a diffusion image (hereinafter, referred to as a diffusion protocol), and a protocol for obtaining a perfusion image (hereinafter, referred to as a perfusion protocol).

Examples of information that is post-processed or calculated by using image data obtained by applying a protocol include a cerebral blood volume (CBV) map, a cerebral blood flow (CBF) map, histogram equalization information, an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, a trace map, a perfusion map, an fMRI map showing brain functions, an MRI property map, such as a T1 map or a T2 map, a fractional anisotropy map, and a diffusion tractography map.

In addition, there are various protocols used to generate an MRI image, and the protocols may slightly vary according to product specifications of the MRI system. Information may be obtained by using image data obtained by applying the various protocols may vary.

An image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a T1W protocol is referred to as a T1-weighted image, and an image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a T2W protocol is referred to as a T2-weighted image. An image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a T1W flair protocol is referred to as a T1W flair image, and an image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a T2W flair protocol is referred to as a T2W flair image. An image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a diffusion protocol is referred to as a diffusion image, and an image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a perfusion protocol is referred to as a perfusion image. In addition, there are other various types of MRI images. Also, at least one of different images may be generated by using image data obtained by applying the same protocol. For example, a CBV map, a CBF map, and a mean transit time (MTT) map may be obtained by applying a perfusion protocol. In other words, perfusion images obtained by applying a perfusion protocol may include a CBV map, a CBF map, and an MTT map.

MRI images may be classified into anatomical images and functional images.

An anatomical image is an image reconstructed by directly sampling an MR signal received from an object, when an MR image is captured by setting and applying an acquisition parameter as a predetermined value in the general MRI system ofFIG. 1. In other words, the anatomical image may be obtained without having to perform a separate post-process or calculation, by using data obtained by driving the MRI system.

Here, acquisition parameters are values of scan conditions applied while performing MRI photographing, and include a repetition time TR, an echo time TE, and a flip angle FA. The acquisition parameters may further include a band width, a slice gap, a slice thickness, and the number of excitations NEX, and other various acquisition parameters according to models or production specifications of the MRI system.

Here, an echo time TE is a time from when a 90° RF signal is applied to an object to when an echo signal is received, and affects a contrast of a T2-weighted image. A repetition time TR is a time from when a 90° RF signal is applied to obtain a signal about a selected cross section to when a 90° RF signal is applied to obtain a next signal, and affects a contrast of a T1-weighted image.

A flip angle FA is a value indicating an angle of longitudinal magnetization generated by using an RF signal. Here, a T1 weighted effect is obtained when the flip angle FA is large, and a T2 weighted effect is obtained when the flip angle FA is small.

A slice gap indicates a gap between two slices, and is set to a predetermined value to obtain a 2-dimensional (2D) image and is not set to obtain a 3D image. A slice thickness denotes a width of a voxel in which a signal is generated on a cross section of an object to be examined. When the slice thickness is low, space resolution is high but a signal to noise ratio (SNR) is low.

The number of excitations NEX is a value indicating the number of times an image signal emitted from each voxel of a tissue is excited to prepare one image. When the number of excitations NEX is high, an SNR is high.

For example, when a repetition time TR and an echo time TE are set to be short, a T1-weighted image may be obtained by increasing a contrast between tissues having a fast T1 relaxation time and tissues having a slow T1 relaxation time, and reducing a T2 time difference according to traverse relaxation.

Alternatively, when a repetition time TR and an echo time TE are set to be long, a T2-weighted image may be obtained by increasing a difference of traverse relaxation as much as possible to increase a contrast between tissues, and reducing a longitudinal relaxation difference between tissues.

As described above, an anatomical image is an image obtained as the MRI system to which acquisition parameters set to predetermined values are applied directly scans an object. In detail, examples of the anatomical image include a T1-weighted image, a T2-weighted image, a T1 flair image, a T2 flair image, and a diffusion image.

A functional image is an image generated by using information extracted from the anatomical image described above, or information calculated by using image data obtained by applying a predetermined protocol. In detail, the functional image is an image generated by using information that is post-processed by using a data set obtained to restore an anatomical image, or calculated by using a data set obtained by applying a predetermined protocol. In other words, the functional image cannot be directly reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a predetermined protocol, but is obtained via a post-process or calculation.

In detail, examples of the functional image include an ADC map indicating tissue viability about whether tissues are alive or dead, CBF and CBV maps indicating blood-related information, an fMRI map indicating brain functions, T1 and T2 maps indicating properties of an MRI sequence, a fractional anisotropy map, and a diffusion tractography image.

Examples of a functional image generated by using information calculated using image data obtained by applying a diffusion protocol include an ADC map, a trace map, and a diffusion tractography image. Examples of a functional image generated by using information calculated using image data obtained by applying a perfusion protocol include a mean transit time (MTT) map, a CBV map, and a CBF map. A T1 map may be obtained by using image data obtained by applying a T1W protocol, and a T2 map may be obtained by using image data obtained by applying a T2W protocol. Other various types of functional images may be obtained according to protocols.

In a CT system, a protocol for generating a CT image may be largely classified into a case when CT photographing is performed by using a contrast medium and a case when a contrast medium is not used. In detail, an example of a protocol for scanning a CT image by using a contrast medium includes a perfusion protocol. An example of a protocol for scanning a CT image without using a contrast medium includes a digital subtraction angiography (DSA) image protocol (hereinafter, referred to as a DSA protocol). Other various protocols may be used to capture a CT image, and may differ according to product specifications of a CT system.

FIG. 7Aillustrates images that are scanned and reconstructed by applying MRI protocols. In detail,FIG. 7Aillustrates a T1-weighted image710and a T2-weighted image720obtained by respectively applying the T1W protocol and the T2W protocol from among MRI images.

Referring toFIG. 7A, the T1-weighted image710is an MRI image having an excellent contrast between soft tissues and satisfactorily showing an anatomical structure. In the T1-weighted image710, fat is shown in white due to high signal strength. A fast blood flow, a structure filled with fluid, and cerebrospinal fluid are shown in black due to low signal strength.

Referring toFIG. 7A, the T2-weighted image720is an MRI image satisfactorily showing a pathological lesion, and may be used to diagnose cancer. In the T2-weighted image720, cerebrospinal fluid is shown in white, and fat and muscles are shown relatively dark due to low or medium signal strength.

FIG. 7Billustrates images that are scanned and reconstructed by applying CT protocols. In detail, when an object is a brain,FIG. 7Billustrates a CT angiography image750obtained according to a DSA protocol that does not use a contrast medium, and a CT perfusion image760captured by using a contrast medium.

FIG. 7B(a) shows the CT angiography image750obtained by applying the DSA protocol that does not use a contrast medium. The CT angiography image750is a CT image that clearly shows blood vessels.

FIG. 7B(b) shows the CT perfusion image760obtained by applying a perfusion protocol that performs scanning by using a contrast medium.

As described above with reference toFIGS. 7A and 7B, images reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying different protocols differently express an object and have different image characteristics.

The UI screens output from the medical image providing apparatuses500and600, according to one or more exemplary embodiments, will now be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 8A through 37. Here,FIGS. 8A through 37will be described with reference to the medical image providing apparatus600.

FIG. 8Ais a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8Aillustrates an example of an image displayed on the display unit620. In detail, the display unit620displays a screen800including a first image810through a display panel included in the display unit620. The first image810included in the screen800displayed by the display unit620may be any medical image of an object. InFIG. 8A, a brain MRI image is shown as the first image810. In detail, the first image810is an anatomical image of the brain MRI image to represent anatomical structure of a brain.

When a first region820in the first image810is selected, the UI unit630outputs a first list including at least one protocol applied while scanning an object. In detail, the first list may include at least one item corresponding to at least one of the plurality of MRI protocols and the plurality of CT protocols described above.

InFIG. 8A, one region, i.e., the first region820, is selected, but alternatively, a plurality of partial regions may be selected from the first image810.

In detail, the UI unit630may receive a selection on a region of interest (ROI) in the first image810from a user. For example, when the user selects a predetermined region by using a mouse, the UI unit630may set the selected predetermined region as an ROI. Here, the ROI is the first region820.

One ROI is set inFIG. 8A, but alternatively, a plurality of ROIs may be set.

For example, when the user selects a predetermined point on the first image810while setting an ROI, an ROI having a predetermined size around the predetermined point may be automatically set. In detail, when the UI unit630includes a mouse and the user clicks a predetermined point on the first image810, a rectangular ROI having a predetermined size around the predetermined point may be set. Here, a size of an ROI may be pre-set by the user or may be set by the control unit610.

Alternatively, when the UI unit630includes a touch pad and the user touches a predetermined point on the first image810a predetermined number of times, a rectangular ROI having a predetermined size around the touched predetermined point may be set.

Alternatively, while setting an ROI, the user may adjust a size of an ROI through the UI unit630to set the first region820. For example, when the UI unit630includes a mouse and the user clicks a predetermined point on the first image810, a quadrangle for setting the first image810may be displayed and the user may adjust a size of the displayed quadrangle to adjust the size of the first region820.

Furthermore, the user may adjust at least one of the size, location, and shape of the first region820by using any one of various input devices in the UI unit630.

The first region820may be automatically selected by the control unit610, without having to be selected by the user. In other words, the control unit610may automatically select or extract the first region820from the first image810.

In detail, the control unit610may automatically extract a diagnosis target region from the first image810and select the extracted diagnosis target region as the first region820. Here, the diagnosis target region is an object for diagnosing a disease of a patient, for example, a body organ, a body tissue, or a certain region of a body.

For example, when the user wants to diagnose an abnormality of a certain brain blood vessel or a certain brain region, the user may input the diagnosis target region through the UI unit630. Then, the control unit610may automatically extract the input diagnosis target region.

The control unit610may automatically perform an organ segmentation on a medical image displayed on the display unit530. Then, a segmented region may be selected as the first region820. For example, when a chest MRI image is captured and the user wants to determine whether a tumor is generated in a certain organ, the control unit610may segment organs in the chest MRI image.

Here, when a plurality of organs are segmented, the UI unit630generates a UI screen for selecting at least one of the plurality of segmented organs, and the display unit620displays the UI screen. Then, the user selects at least one organ through the displayed UI screen, and a region corresponding to the selected organ may be set as the first region820.

Alternatively, when a plurality of organs are segmented, the control unit610may set a plurality of partial regions including the plurality of organs as the first regions820.

Alternatively, the control unit610may automatically extract a disease suspected region from the first image810and select the disease suspected region as the first region820. In detail, the control unit610examines whether an abnormal tissue, an abnormal organ structure, or a lesion is generated in the first image810. Then, the control unit610may extract a region including the lesion, the abnormal tissue, or the abnormal organ structure as a disease suspected region, and select the disease suspected region as the first region820.

After the first region820is selected, the size of the first region820may be expanded or reduced by using an edit menu (not shown) for the first region820. In addition, even after the first region820is selected, the location of the first region820may be changed and reset.

For example, a shape of a cell may be deformed as a previous step of a tumor. In this case, a deformed cell tissue may be determined as a disease suspected region, and the control unit610extracts the deformed cell tissue as the disease suspected region. Then, the control unit610may select a region including the extracted disease suspected region as the first region820.

When the memory640stores at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol and a predetermined protocol is selected from the first list, the control unit610reads predetermined image data corresponding to the predetermined protocol stored in the memory640. Then, a second image may be reconstructed in real-time by using the read predetermined image data.

When the memory640stores a reconstructed image corresponding to a protocol and a predetermined protocol is selected from the first list, the control unit610may generate a second image corresponding to the first region820in real-time by using the stored reconstructed image.

When a predetermined protocol is selected, the control unit610may obtain image data in real-time by operating a medical image system, such as an MRI system, for capturing a medical image by applying the predetermined protocol. Then, the control unit610may reconstruct a second image by using the obtained image data.

FIG. 8Bis a diagram for describing operations of a medical image providing apparatus, according to an exemplary embodiment. InFIG. 8A, the first image810included in the screen800displayed by the display unit620is an MRI image, but inFIG. 8B, a first image870included in a screen860displayed by the display unit620is a CT image. In detail, inFIG. 8B, the first image870is an anatomical image of a brain CT image to represent anatomical structure of a brain.

FIGS. 9A and 9Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment. In detail,FIG. 9Aillustrates an example of a first list910output on the display unit620.FIG. 9Billustrates another example of a first list955output on the display unit620.

Referring toFIG. 9A, a screen900displayed on the display unit620includes the first image810and the first list910.

Referring toFIG. 9A, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may automatically output the first list910including at least one protocol.

Here, the first list910may include at least one protocol described above. In detail, the first list910includes at least one protocol applied while scanning an object. Here, the at least one protocol is used to obtain images of the same body region having different characteristics, and as described above, may include at least one of MRI protocols and CT protocols.

The first list910may also include image lists according to protocols applied while scanning an object. InFIG. 9A, a ‘T1W’ item in the first list910may denote a ‘T1W protocol’ or a ‘T1-weighted image’ scanned and reconstructed by applying the ‘T1W protocol’. Hereinafter, it is assumed that items in a first list denote protocols.

When the user manipulates the UI unit630to input a predetermined command after the first region820is selected, the control unit610may output the first list910. For example, when the UI unit630includes a mouse and the user right-clicks the mouse after the first region820is selected, the first list910may be output. Alternatively, when the user double-clicks the mouse after the first region820is selected, the first list910may be output. As another example, when the UI unit630includes a touch pad and the user touches the first region820on the screen900after the first region820is selected, the first list910may be output.

Alternatively, the control unit610may output the first list910when the user manipulates the UI unit630in any one of various methods.

The first list910ofFIG. 9Amay include other various protocols.

The user may select a predetermined protocol in the first list910. For example, the user may select the T1W protocol through the UI unit630.

When the T1W protocol is selected, the control unit610may overlay and display on the first region820, a T1-weighted image that is a second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the T1W protocol. In other words, the display unit620may display the screen900ofFIG. 9Aaccording to a control of the control unit610.

Here, the second image displayed on the first region820may be a partial image corresponding to a predetermined region of the object included in the first region820with respect to an image obtained by applying a selected protocol.

For example, when the T1W protocol is selected, the control unit610overlays and displays on the first region820of the first image810, a region711ofFIG. 7of the T1-weighted image710, which equally corresponds to the first region820.

In detail, when the user wants to view an anatomical structure of the first region820in detail, the user may select a T1W protocol for generating a T1-weighted image that satisfactorily shows an anatomical structure, through the UI unit630. Then, the control unit610overlays and displays on the first region820, the T1-weighted image reconstructed by using image data obtained by the T1W protocol.

Alternatively, when it is suspected that a tumor is generated in the first region820by reading the first image810, the user may select a T2W protocol for generating a T2-weighted image that satisfactorily shows a tumor, through the UI unit630. Then, the control unit510overlays and displays on the first region820, a T2-weighted image reconstructed by using image data obtained by the T2W protocol.

Each item of the first list910may include a reconstructed image corresponding to a protocol. Here, a reconstructed image included in each item of the first list910may be a whole image of an object or a partial image corresponding to the first region820.

Referring toFIG. 9B, a screen950displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and the first list955. Referring toFIG. 9B, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list955including at least one protocol.

Here, the first list955may include at least one protocol described above. Here, a plurality of protocols are used to obtain images of the same body region having different characteristics, and as described above, may include at least one of MRI protocols and CT protocols.

Referring toFIG. 9B, the first list955includes a T1W protocol, a T2W protocol, a diffusion protocol, and a perfusion protocol, which are MRI protocols960, and a perfusion protocol that is a CT protocol970. Also, the first list955may separately include the MRI protocol960and the CT protocol970, as shown inFIG. 9B.

As described above, reconstructed images corresponding to protocols have different characteristics according to protocols. Accordingly, a protocol may be selected by considering a detailed region of an object to be diagnosed, and a disease to be diagnosed in the detailed region.

As such, the medical image providing apparatuses500and600according to the exemplary embodiments output a list of protocols, and overlay and display an image of a predetermined protocol in an ROI to output a medical image suitable to an intention of the user.

FIGS. 10A and 10Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 10A, a screen1000displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1010. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1010.

Referring toFIG. 10A, the first list1010may include at least one protocol described above, and at least one manipulation menu item. In detail, the first list1010may include a first sub-list1020including at least one protocol, and a second sub-list1030including at least one manipulation menu item. Here, a manipulation menu item is a menu option for manipulating characteristics of an image included in the first region820of the first image810. Examples of the manipulation menu item include a menu option for filtering an image of the first region820by using a predetermined filter, a menu option for adjusting a window level (WL) of the image of the first region820, and a menu option for adjusting a contrast of the image of the first region820.

InFIG. 10A, the second sub-list1030including the at least one manipulation menu item includes a first filter (filter1), a second filter (filter2), and a WL adjusting item (WL adjustment).

For example, when the user selects the filter1from the first list1010, the control unit510may filter an image of the first region820by using the filter1, and overlay and display the filtered image on the first region820.

Alternatively, when the user selects the WL adjustment from the first list1010, the control unit510may adjust a WL of the image of the first region820, and overlay and display the adjusted image on the first region820.

The at least one protocol and the at least one manipulation menu item included in the first list1010may be included in one list.

Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 10A, the first sub-list1020including the at least one protocol and the second sub-list1030including the at least one manipulation menu item may be separately included in the first list1010.

When a first item is selected from the first sub-list1020and a second item is continuously selected from the second sub-list1030, an image corresponding to a protocol included in the first item may be changed according to a manipulation menu option included in the second item. Then, the changed image may be displayed on the first region820.

For example, when a T1W protocol is selected from the first sub-list1020and the filter1is continuously selected from the second sub-list1030through the UI unit630, the control unit610may display an image obtained by filtering a T1-weighted image corresponding to the T1W protocol by using the filter1, on the first region820.

Referring toFIG. 10B, a screen1050displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1051. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1051.

Referring toFIG. 10B, the first list1051may include a plurality of sub-lists according to types of a medical imaging system. InFIG. 10B, the first list1051includes a first sub-list1053corresponding to an MRI system, and a second sub-list1055corresponding to a CT system.

Referring toFIG. 10B, the first sub-list1053includes at least one of a plurality of MRI protocols1061and manipulation menu items1062of an MRI image.

As shown inFIG. 10B, a plurality of sub-lists corresponding to a plurality of medical imaging systems may each include protocols and manipulation menu items. For example, the MRI protocols1061and the manipulation menu items1062may be distinguishably included in the first sub-list1053, as shown inFIG. 10B. Alternatively, the MRI protocols1061and the manipulation menu items1062may not be distinguishably included in the first sub-list1053.

The second sub-list1055includes at least one of CT protocols1065and manipulation menu items1066of a CT image. Examples of the manipulation menu items1066include an HU mapping menu and a fat measure menu.

FIG. 11is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment. A list included in a screen1100may be in a multistage form.

Referring toFIG. 11, the screen1100displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1110. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1110.

Also, when a predetermined item included in the first list1110is activated, at least one manipulation menu item1120corresponding to the activated predetermined item is output. Here, the predetermined item is activated by selecting the predetermined item or assigning the predetermined item to select the predetermined item. For example, when a cursor (not shown) is located on the predetermined item by using a mouse to select the predetermined item, the predetermined item may be activated.

In detail, when the predetermined item, for example, a T2W protocol item, included in the first list1110is activated, the UI unit630may output the manipulation menu item1120depending on the T2W protocol item.

Alternatively, when a predetermined item is selected, the predetermined item may be activated. In detail, when a predetermined protocol is selected from the first list1110, the display unit620may display the sub-list1120associated with the selected predetermined protocol. For example, when a T2W protocol is selected, the sub-list1120associated with the T2W protocol may be displayed through a pop-up window.

Accordingly, the user may additionally select a predetermined manipulation menu item for manipulating a T2-weighted image. For example, when a filter1is selected from the sub-list1120, the control unit510may filter a T2-weighted image reconstructed by using image data obtained according to a T2W protocol, and overlay and display the filtered T2-weighted image on the first region820.

A sub-list including at least one manipulation menu item may be added to each of the protocols included in the first list1110. In this case, the user may be able to directly select a predetermined manipulation menu item associated with a predetermined protocol without having to first select the predetermined protocol. In other words, the UI unit630may output the plurality of protocols included in the first list1110after adding the sub-list including the manipulation menu item1120to each of the plurality of protocols. In other words, even if a predetermined item included in the first list1110is not activated, the manipulation menu item1120may be added and output to each of the plurality of items included in the first list1110.

FIG. 12is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 12, a screen1200displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1210. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1210.

The first list1210may include at least one additional item calculated by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol.

In detail, an MTT map, a CBV map, and a CBF map may be calculated by using image data obtained by applying a perfusion protocol. An ADC map and a trace map may be calculated by using image data obtained by applying a diffusion protocol.

Accordingly, the first list1210includes a plurality of protocols, such as a T1W protocol and a T2W protocol, and a plurality of additional items, such as histogram equalization, a CBF map, and a CBV map, which are calculated by using image data obtained by applying a predetermined protocol.

For example, when a CBF map is selected through the UI unit630, a CBV map of a region included in the first region820may be overlaid and displayed on the first region820.

FIG. 13Ais a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 13A, a screen1300displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1310. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1310.

In detail, referring toFIG. 13A, the first list1310includes at least one protocol. When a predetermined protocol is selected from the first list1310, an additional item list1320including an additional item calculated by using image data obtained by applying the selected predetermined protocol may be output.

For example, when a perfusion protocol is selected, the control unit610may display the additional item list1320including a CBV map and a CBF map calculated by using image data obtained by scanning an object by applying the perfusion protocol. When the user selected a CBV map from the additional item list1320, the control unit610may overlay and display a CBV map corresponding to a region included in the first region820, on the first region820.

FIG. 13Bis a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment. While describing a screen1360ofFIG. 13B, descriptions thereof that are the same as those of the screen1300ofFIG. 13Aare not provided.

Referring toFIG. 13B, the screen1360displayed by the display unit620may include the first image810and the first list1310. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1310. When a predetermined protocol is activated from the first list1310, a sub-list1370including at least one image reconstructed, processed, or calculated by using image data obtained by applying the selected predetermined protocol may be output. In other words, when a predetermined item is selected or is assigned to select the predetermined item from the first list1310, a protocol included in the predetermined item is activated. Then, the sub-list1370including at least one image corresponding to the activated protocol included in the predetermined item is output.

Referring toFIG. 13B, when a perfusion protocol is activated from the first list1310, the control unit610may control the sub-list1370including a CBV map1371, a CBF map1372, an MTT map1373, which are calculated by using image data obtained by scanning an object by applying the perfusion protocol, to be displayed. For example, when a user selects the CBV map1371from the sub-list1370, the control unit610may overlay and display a partial region included in the first region820of the CBV map on the first region820of the first image810.

FIG. 14is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 14, a screen1400displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1410. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list141.

Referring toFIG. 14, sub-lists1420,1430, and1440including additional items obtained, processed, or calculated by using image data obtained by applying a relevant protocol may be added to the first list141according to protocol items, and then the first list141may be displayed. In detail, a T2W protocol item and the sub-list1420including a T2W flair protocol item may be added to a T2W protocol item. The sub-list1430including an ADC map item and a trace map item may be added to a diffusion protocol item, and the sub-list1440including a CBF map item and a CBV map item may be added to a perfusion protocol item.

In detail, an ADC map or a trace map may be calculated by using image data obtained by applying a diffusion protocol. Accordingly, an ADC map and a trace map may be added to the sub-list1430corresponding to a diffusion protocol item.

FIG. 15is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 15, a screen1500displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1510. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1510. Here, the first list1510may include at least one protocol described above. The first list1510may further include at least one additional item described above with reference toFIGS. 12 through 14.

The UI unit630may output a sub-list1520including a plurality of points of time after adding the sub-list1520to each of the items included in the first list1510. In detail, when a predetermined item is selected from the items included in the first list1510, the UI unit630may output the sub-list1520including at least one point of time item indicating a point of time when image data or a reconstructed image corresponding to the selected predetermined item is obtained.

For example, let's assume that image data obtained on 1 Dec. 2012 by applying a T2W protocol and image data obtained on 1 Dec. 2013 by applying a T2W protocol are stored in the memory640, or an image reconstructed by using the image data obtained on 1 Dec. 2012 and an image reconstructed by using the image data obtained on 1 Dec. 2013 are stored in the memory640. In this case, when a T2W protocol item in the first list1510is selected, the UI unit630may output the sub-list1520including a ‘1 Dec. 2013’ item and a ‘1 Dec. 2013’ item, which are points of time when the image data corresponding to the T2W protocol items are obtained. When the user selects the ‘1 Dec. 2012’ item, the control unit610may overlay and display a T2-weighted image reconstructed by using the image data obtained on 1 Dec. 2012, on the first region820.

Alternatively, when a plurality of points of time items are selected from the sub-list1520, a plurality of reconstructed images corresponding to the selected plurality of points of time items may be all displayed on the first image810. In this case, the user may easily determine a disease history of a patient in the first region820.

Alternatively, a sub-list including at least one point of time item may be added to each item included in the first list1510. In this case, the user may be able to directly select a point of time item associated with a predetermined item without having to first select the predetermined item in the first list1510.

The UI unit630may add an image display menu including a reconstructed image according to at least one point of time to each item of the first list1510.

Then, when a predetermined item is selected from the items in the first list1510, the UI unit630may add and output an image display menu including a reconstructed image according to points of time corresponding to the selected predetermined item. In other words, each item of the sub-list1520may include a reconstructed image obtained at a point of time displayed on each item. Here, a reconstructed image included in each item of the sub-list1520may be a whole image of an object or a partial image corresponding to the first region820.

FIG. 16is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 16, a screen1600displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list1610. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list1610.

Referring toFIG. 16, the first list1610may include at least one item indicating a point of time when image data or reconstructed image obtained by applying at least one protocol is obtained. Here, at least one point of time item included in the first list1610is related to a medical image of the same patient and the same region.

For example, a first item1611in the first list1610is related to a medical image captured on 1 Dec. 2012, and a second item1612is related to a medical image captured on 1 Dec. 2013.

In detail, when the second item1612is selected through the UI unit630, the second item1612may include a sub-list1620including image data or a reconstructed image obtained by applying a predetermined protocol on 1 Dec. 2013. When the user selects a ‘T2W’ item from the sub-list1610, the control unit610overlays and displays a T2-weighted image on the first region820photographed on 1 Dec. 2013.

In detail, when the memory640distinguishably stores image data corresponding to medical images or protocols regarding the same body region of the same patient according to photographing points of time, the control unit610may read information about a photographing point of time and a protocol from the memory640. Then, the UI unit630may output the first list1610and the sub-list1620, as shown inFIG. 16, by using the information read by the control unit610.

FIG. 17is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 17, a screen1700displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list1710. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list1710.

In the medical image providing apparatus600, when the first region820included in the first image810is selected, the UI unit630may output the second list1710including at least one reconstructed image corresponding to a protocol. Hereinafter, a list including a reconstructed image according to at least one protocol will be referred to as the second list1710.

The UI unit630may receive a selection on a predetermined reconstructed image included in the second list1710. It is assumed that the selected predetermined reconstructed image is a first reconstructed image. Then, the control unit610may overlay and display a second image on the first region820of the first image810, by using the first reconstructed image.

In detail, the second image overlaid on the first region820is an image included in an area corresponding to a predetermined region of an object included in the first region820, with respect to the first reconstructed image.

Referring toFIG. 17, reconstructed images1720and1730included in the second list1710may be partial images corresponding to the first region820. In detail, the reconstructed images1720and1730may equally correspond to the regions711and721described above with reference toFIG. 7A, respectively.

In detail, when the user selects any one of the reconstructed images1720and1730included in the second list1710, the selected reconstructed image1720or1730is overlaid and displayed on the first region820.

For example, the user may select a first reconstructed image by clicking and dragging any one of the reconstructed images1720and1730included in the second list1710. Alternatively, the user may select a first reconstructed image by doubling clicking any one of the reconstructed images1720and1730. A method of selecting one of the reconstructed images1720and1730may differ based on an input device included in the UI unit630, examples of the input device including a keyboard, a mouse, and a touch pad.

InFIG. 17, the first region820that is one partial region is selected, but alternatively, a plurality of partial regions may be selected from the first image810. In this case, a reconstructed image to be overlaid may be individually selected according to the selected plurality of partial regions.

The second list1710may include at least one manipulation menu item (not shown) for manipulating at least one reconstructed image or the first region820of the first image810. Since the manipulation menu item has been described above with reference toFIG. 10A, details thereof are not repeated here.

Alternatively, the second list1710may include a first sub-list (not shown) including at least one reconstructed image, and a second sub-list (not shown) including at least one manipulation menu item for manipulating the first region820. Here, the first and second sub-lists may be distinguishably displayed as shown inFIG. 10A.

Alternatively, the second list1710may include at least one additional image (not shown) generated by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol.

Here, the additional image is information obtained by using image data obtained by applying a protocol as described above, and may be a CBV map, a CBF map, or a histogram equalization image. The additional image that may be included in the second list1710equally corresponds to an image corresponding to the additional item described with reference toFIG. 12.

FIGS. 18A and 18Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 18A, a screen1800displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list1810. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list1810.

Referring toFIG. 18A, the second list1810may include at least one reconstructed image corresponding to a protocol. Here, the reconstructed image included in the second list1810may be a whole image of an object.

In detail, a reconstructed image1820and a reconstructed image1830included in the second list1810may equally correspond to the T1-weighted image710and the T2-weighted image720ofFIG. 7A, respectively.

When the user selects any one of the reconstructed images1820and1830included in the second list1810, the control unit610may overlay and display a region of the selected reconstructed image1820or1830, which correspond to the first region820, on the first region820.

Referring toFIG. 18B, a screen1850shows a reconstructed image included in the second list1810may be a whole image of an object, and a region corresponding to the first region820may be displayed on reconstructed images, i.e., the T1 and T2-weighted images710and720, included in the second list1810.

Referring toFIG. 18B, a region1860corresponding to the first region820may be displayed in the T1-weighted image710, and a region1870corresponding to the first region820may be displayed in the T2-weighted image720.

FIG. 19is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 19, a screen1900displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list1910. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list1910.

In the second list1910, each of items1920and1930may include a reconstructed image1921according to protocols, and information1922about the reconstructed image1921. Here, the information1922may include a protocol of the reconstructed image1921. The information1922may further include at least one of a point of time when the reconstructed image1920is obtained, and a disease history of a patient. The reconstructed image1921may be a whole image or partial image of an object.

FIG. 20is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 20, a screen2000displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list2010. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list2010.

The UI unit630may generate at least one manipulation menu item for manipulating each of at least one reconstructed image, and may add the generated at least one manipulation menu item to each of the at least one reconstructed image included in the second list2010.

For example, each item, for example, a first item2020, included in the second list2010may include a reconstructed image2012and a manipulation menu item2022.

When the user selects a filter1included in the first item2020, the control unit610may filter the reconstructed image2012by using the filter1, and overlay and display the filtered reconstructed image2012on the first region820.

FIG. 21is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 21, a screen2100displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list2110. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list2110.

Referring toFIG. 21, each item of the second list2110may include at least one reconstructed image according to points of time corresponding to a protocol. Here, a ‘reconstructed image according to points of time’ denotes a medical image captured and reconstructed at a predetermined point of time.

For example, a first item2120of the second list2110may include a plurality of T1-weighted images. In detail, the first item2120may include a T1-weighted image2121captured on 1 Dec. 2012, and a T1-weighted image2122captured on 1 Dec. 2013.

For example, when the user selects the T1-weighted image2121, the T1-weighted image2121captured on 1 Dec. 2012 is overlaid and displayed on the first region820.

FIG. 22Ais a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 22A, a screen2200displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list2210. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list2210.

Each item included in the second list2210may include at least one image corresponding to the same protocol. In detail, each item included in the second list2210may include sub-items reconstructed or calculated by using image data obtained by the same protocol. In detail, a first item2220of the second list2210may include a T1-weighted image2221and a T1 weighted flair image2222, which are reconstructed by using image data obtained by a T1 protocol. A second item2230may include a CBF map and a CBV map, which are generated by using image data obtained by a perfusion protocol. Also, an image included in the second list2210may be a partial image indicating a region of an object included in the first region820, or an image indicating the object corresponding to the first image810. InFIG. 22A, the second list2210includes the partial image.

For example, when the user selects the T1-weighted image2221, the T1-weighted image2221may be overlaid and displayed on the first region820.

The control unit610may provide a preview function of a reconstructed image according to protocols, even before a predetermined protocol is selected.

In detail, the control unit610may display a preview menu of a reconstructed image corresponding to a predetermined item included in a first list that is focused by using an input device included in the UI unit630.

A preview function will now be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 23 and 24. It is assumed that a preview menu is a reconstructed image corresponding to a predetermined item that is focused.

FIG. 22Bis a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment. The control unit620may control a list included in a screen2260to be output in a multistage form.

Referring toFIG. 22B, the screen2260displayed by the display unit620may include the first image810and a second list2270. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the second list2270.

The second list2270may include a T1-weighted image2271obtained according to a T1W protocol, a T2-weighted image2272obtained according to a T2W protocol, and a CBV map2273obtained according to a perfusion protocol.

Also, when a predetermined item included in the second list2270is activated, a sub-list2280including at least one image corresponding to at least one of an additional item and a manipulation menu item related to the activated predetermined item may be output.

Referring toFIG. 22B, when the CBV map2273obtained according to the perfusion protocol is activated from the second list2270, the control unit620may control the sub-list2280including at least one image corresponding to at least one of an additional item and a manipulation menu item related to the perfusion protocol to be output. InFIG. 22B, the sub-list2280includes a CBF map2281and an mTT map2282, which are images calculated by using image data obtained by applying the perfusion protocol.

When one of the images included in the second list2270or the sub-list2280is selected, the control unit620may control a partial image corresponding to the first region820of the selected image to be overlaid and displayed on the first region820of the first image810.

FIG. 23is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 23, a screen2300displayed on the display unit620includes the first image810and a first list2310. In detail, when the first region820is selected from the first image810, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list2310including at least one protocol.

The user may focus a predetermined item of the first list2310by using an input device included in the UI unit630. As described above, when the input device is a mouse, a keyboard, or a touch pad, the user may select the predetermined item by using a cursor2311corresponding to manipulation of the input device. In detail, the user may locate the cursor2311on the predetermined item, and select the predetermined item through the input device. For example, when the user selects the predetermined item by using a mouse, the user may move the cursor2311to a desired location and then double-click the mouse so as to select a ‘T2W protocol’ item where the cursor2311is located.

In this case, referring toFIG. 23, a reconstructed image corresponding to a protocol focused by the user may be displayed even before the first region820is selected.

When the user locates the cursor2311on the predetermined item of the first list2310, a reconstructed image corresponding to the predetermined item may be overlaid and displayed on the first region820even before the user selects the predetermined item by determining that the predetermined item where the cursor2311is located is activated. When the cursor2311moves to another item, a reconstructed image overlaid on the first region820may correspondingly change.

The user may pre-view an image corresponding to a protocol corresponding to a predetermined item on the first region820by locating the cursor2311on the predetermined item, and finally select or not select the predetermined item.

FIGS. 24A and 24Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 24A, a screen2400displayed on the display unit620includes the first image810and a first list2410. In detail, when the first region820is selected from the first image810, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list2410including at least one protocol.

Referring toFIG. 24A, when the user focuses a predetermined item of the first list2410by using an input device included in the UI unit630, the control unit610may display a reconstructed image2420corresponding to the focused predetermined item. Here, the reconstructed image2420may be an image corresponding to the first image810or a partial image corresponding to the first region820. InFIG. 24A, the reconstructed image2420is the image corresponding to the first image810.

In detail, when the user locates a cursor on a predetermined item of the first list2410by using a mouse, the control unit610may perform a preview function by displaying a reconstructed image corresponding to the predetermined item where the cursor is located, on the screen2400. When the location of the cursor is changed to another item, a reconstructed image displayed on the screen2400may be changed accordingly. Accordingly, inFIG. 24A, the reconstructed image2420that is a T2-weighted image corresponding to a ‘T2W protocol’ where a cursor2411is located may be displayed on the screen2400.

Here, the reconstructed image2420may be a whole image corresponding to a predetermined protocol, and a region2430corresponding to the first region820may be displayed.

Referring toFIG. 24B, when the user focuses a predetermined item of a first list2460by using an input device included in the UI unit630, the control unit610may display a reconstructed image2470corresponding to the focused predetermined item. Accordingly, the reconstructed image2470that is a T2-weighted image corresponding to a ‘T2W protocol’ where a cursor2461is located may be displayed on a screen2450.

Here, the reconstructed image2470is reconstructed by applying the T2W protocol, and may include a region corresponding to the first region820.

FIGS. 25A and 25Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

As described above with reference toFIG. 8A, a plurality of partial regions may be selected from the first image810via a user's setting or automatic extraction.

Referring toFIG. 25A, a screen2500displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list2510. In detail, when a plurality of first regions820and2520are selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list2510for selecting a protocol corresponding to each of the first regions820and2520.

In order to select protocols respectively corresponding to a plurality of partial regions, the plurality of partial regions may be sequentially highlighted.

In detail, when the first region2520on the left is highlighted, a protocol of an image to be overlaid on the first region2520may be first selected through the first list2510. After the protocol corresponding to the first region2520on the left is selected, the first region820on the right may be continuously highlighted. Then, the user may select a protocol of an image to be overlaid on the first region820on the right through the first list2510.

Referring toFIG. 25A, a T1W protocol is selected as denoted by a reference numeral2511correspondingly to the first region2520on the left, and a T2W protocol is selected as denoted by a reference numeral2513correspondingly to the first region820on the right. Here, protocols selected correspondingly to a plurality of partial regions may be displayed as shown in regions2530so that the user easily recognizes the selected protocols. After the protocols are selected as such, images according to the protocols corresponding to the plurality of partial regions may be overlaid and displayed on the plurality of partial regions.

Referring toFIG. 25B, a screen2550displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and the plurality of first lists2560and2570for respectively selecting the first regions820and2520. In detail, when the first regions820and2520are selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first lists2560and2570for respectively selecting protocols corresponding to the first regions820and2520.

Referring toFIG. 25B, the screen2550may include the first list2570for selecting the protocol corresponding to the first region2520on the left, and the first list2560for selecting the protocol corresponding to the first region820on the right.

Referring toFIG. 25B, a T1W protocol is selected as denoted by a reference numeral2571correspondingly to the first region2520on the left, and a T2W protocol is selected as denoted by a reference numeral2561correspondingly to the first region820on the right.

FIG. 26is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 26, a screen2600displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list2610. In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list2610. Here, the first list2610may include at least one of anatomical image items corresponding to protocols and functional image items corresponding to protocols.

Images corresponding to protocols described above may be classified into anatomical images and functional images.

Referring toFIG. 26, the first list2610may include anatomical image items2620and functional image items2630.

As shown inFIG. 26, the anatomical image items2620may include a T1-weighted image (T1W), a T1 flair image (T1W flair), a T2-weighted image (T2W), and a T2 flair image (T2W flair). The functional image items2630may include an ADC map, a trace map, a CBF map, and a CBV map. Here, the anatomical image items2620and the functional image items2630may be separated and listed as shown inFIG. 26. Various anatomical image items and various functional image items other than those shown inFIG. 26may be further included.

FIGS. 27A and 27Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 27A, a screen2700displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810and a first list2710. Here, the first list2710may separately display an anatomical image and a functional image.

In detail, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may output the first list2710. The first list2710includes an anatomical image item2711corresponding to a protocol, and a functional image item2712corresponding to a protocol. The first list2710may further include a past medical image item2713of the same patient.

In order to receive a selection on an anatomical image and a functional image, the UI unit630may output a menu list in stages. For example, when the user selects the functional image item2712from the first list2710, the UI unit630outputs a first sub-list2720including items of protocols corresponding to the functional image item2712. Continuously when the user selects a predetermined protocol, for example, a perfusion protocol, from the first sub-list2720, the UI unit630outputs a second sub-list2730including functional image items corresponding to the selected predetermined protocol. Referring toFIG. 27B, examples of a functional image obtained by using image data obtained by applying a perfusion protocol include an MTT image, a CBV image, and a CBF image.

FIGS. 28A, 28B and 28Cshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 28A, a screen2800, in which a predetermined protocol or a predetermined image item is selected from a first list and a second image corresponding to the selected predetermined protocol is overlaid on a first region2810, is illustrated. It is assumed that a T2-weighted image is overlaid on the first region2810inFIG. 28A.

The second image overlaid on the first region2810may be expanded or reduced. In detail, the control unit610may control the second image to be expanded or reduced in response to a user's request input through the UI unit630. Here, a partial image that is overlaid may be simply expanded or reduced. Alternatively, a size of the first region2810may be expanded or reduced such that a range of an object included on the first region2810is expanded or reduced.

Referring toFIG. 28B, when the size of the first region2810is expanded or reduced by using an input device included in the UI unit630, a size of the second image is also expanded or reduced according to the first region2810to be overlaid on the first region2810.

In detail, as shown inFIG. 28B, the range of the object included in a second image2860may be expanded. Accordingly, a screen2850ofFIG. 28Bmay be displayed to the user.

Referring toFIG. 28C, an image obtained by expanding or reducing the second image overlaid on the first region2810may be displayed.

In detail, as shown inFIG. 28C, a second image2890obtained by expanding a second image that was overlaid on the first region2810may be displayed. Accordingly, a screen2880ofFIG. 28Cmay be displayed to the user.

FIG. 29is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

The control unit610may switch and display a first region2910and a first image2900, according to a user's request input through the UI unit630. In detail, an image type of an image displayed in the first region2910and an image type of the first image2900displayed throughout a screen may be mutually switched.

Referring toFIG. 29, a T2W protocol is selected from a first list, and a T2-weighted image may be overlaid and displayed on the first region2910. InFIG. 29, the first image2900is an MRI scout image.

Referring toFIG. 29, when the user requests the image types of the first region2910and first image2900to be switched through the UI unit630, a first image2950that is a whole image is switched from an MRI scout image to a T2-weighted image, and a first image2960that is a partial image is switched from a T2-weighted image to an MRI scout image.

In detail, in order to change an image type, the UI unit630may output a menu including an ‘image type changing key’ (not shown). Alternatively, an image type may be changed when the user touches or clicks the first image2900a predetermined number of times.

FIGS. 30A and 30Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 30A, a screen3000displayed on the display unit620may include the first image810, a first list3010, and a second list3020. Here, the first list3010is used to select a protocol of an image to be displayed on the first region820. The second list3020is used to select a protocol of an image to be displayed on the first image810but not on the first region820.

In other words, when the first region820is set as an ROI, protocols corresponding to the inside and outside of the ROI may be individually set.

Referring toFIG. 30B, a protocol of an image to be overlaid on the first region820is selected to be a T2W protocol from a first list3060, and a protocol of the first image810but not on the first region820is selected to be a T1W protocol from a second list3070. Accordingly, a T2-weighted image is displayed on the first region820and a T1-weighted image is displayed on the first image810but not on the first region820.

FIGS. 31A and 31Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Here, in the control unit610, a protocol may be first selected before a first region is selected, and then the first region may be set after the protocol is selected.

Referring toFIG. 31A, the display unit620may display a screen3100including a first list3120. The user may select a predetermined item included in the first list3120by using a cursor3130. Here, the first list3120may have any one of various shapes shown inFIGS. 9 through 30, as well as a shape shown inFIGS. 31A and 31B. For example, the first list3120may include at least one of a plurality of anatomical image items corresponding to a protocol and a plurality of functional image items corresponding to a protocol.

Referring toFIG. 31B, when the user selects a predetermined item, for example, a T2W protocol item, through the UI unit630as denoted by a reference numeral3140, the control unit610may then set a first region3150.

Here, the first region3150may be set through the UI unit630, or may be automatically set by the control unit610.

In detail, the UI unit630may receive a setting on an ROI on the first image810included in the screen3100from the user. Then, the control unit610may set the ROI as the first region3150. Then, a reconstructed image corresponding to the selected protocol may be overlaid and displayed on the first region3150.

Alternatively, when a predetermined protocol is selected from the first list3120, the control unit610may extract a region capable of most satisfactorily expressing an image corresponding to the selected predetermined protocol, as the first region3150. For example, when a CBF map of a perfusion protocol is selected from the first list3120, the CBF map most satisfactorily shows blood flow. Accordingly, the control unit610may set a region including blood vessels where blood mostly flows, as the first region3150.

FIG. 32is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

In the control unit610, a protocol may be first selected before a first region is selected, and while setting the first region after the protocol is selected, a plurality of protocols may be selected and then a plurality of first regions corresponding to the selected plurality of protocols may be set. In detail, the user may manipulate an input device of the UI unit630to move a location of a cursor3207so as to select a plurality of protocols from list3205.

In detail, referring toFIG. 32, a screen3200showing that a T2W protocol is selected first, and then a first region3210corresponding to the T2W protocol is set. Then, a T1W protocol is selected, and a first region3220corresponding to the T1W protocol is set.

FIG. 33is a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 33illustrates a screen including a first image3300displayed on the display unit620.

The UI unit630may receive a selection on at least one first region3310from the first image3300including an object. InFIG. 33, one region, i.e., the first region3310, is selected, but alternatively, a plurality of partial regions may be selected.

The control unit610may display a second image reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by scanning the object by applying at least one protocol, on the first region3310of the first image3300.

In detail, the control unit610may obtain image data corresponding to a predetermined protocol and reconstruct a second image by using the obtained image data, based on a region of the object included in the first region3310.

In detail, the control unit610may analyze an image included in the first region3310to determine whether the region of the object included in the first region3310has a disease or disorder. When there is a disease or disorder, a reconstructed image may be generated according to protocols so as to further accurately read the disease or disorder.

In detail, when it is determined that there is a tumor by analyzing an image included in the first region3310, the control unit610may reconstruct a T2-weighted image for accurately reading the tumor.

Alternatively, for example, when it is determined that blood vessels in an image included in the first region3310are abnormal after analyzing the image, for example, when hemadostenosis is found, the control unit610may generate a CBV map or CBF map corresponding to a perfusion protocol so as to further accurately read the blood vessels or blood flow. The generated CBV map or CBF map may be overlaid and displayed on the first region3310.

The control unit610may select at least one piece of image data from among a plurality of pieces of image data obtained by scanning an object by applying at least one protocol, and generate a second image by using the selected at least one piece of image data, based on a region of the object included in the first region3310.

In detail, the memory640may include at least one piece of image data corresponding to at least one protocol. Here, when it is determined that there is a disease or disorder after analyzing an image of the region of the object included in the first region3310, the control unit610may read image data for accurately reading the disease or disorder from the memory640and reconstruct a second image.

Alternatively, the memory640may store at least one reconstructed image reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data corresponding to at least one protocol. Here, when it is determined that there is a disease or disorder after analyzing the partial image indicating the region of the object included in the first region3310, the control unit610may read a reconstructed image for accurately reading the disease or disorder from the memory640, and overlay and display the reconstructed image on the first region3310.

InFIG. 33, when it is determined that an anatomical structure of the region of the object included in the first region3310is unusual, the control unit610may obtain a T1-weighted image for further accurately reading the anatomical structure, and overlay and display the T1-weighted image on the first region3310.

FIGS. 34A and 34Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Here, in the control unit610, when the user requests to change a location of a first region after a second image corresponding to a selected protocol is overlaid and displayed on the first region of a first image, a type of an image overlaid on the first region having the changed location may be changed.

In detail, referring toFIG. 34A, after the second image corresponding to the selected protocol is overlaid and displayed on a first region3410in a first image3400, the user may request a location of the first region3410to be changed to a first region3420through the UI unit630.

Then, the control unit610may automatically output a first list according to the changed location of the first region3410, and receive a selection on a new protocol.

According to the changed location of the first region3410, the control unit610may re-select a predetermined protocol, obtain image data corresponding to the re-selected predetermined protocol, and reconstruct a second image by using the obtained image data, based on a region of an object included in the first region3420. Next, the control unit610may overlay and display an image corresponding to the re-selected protocol on the first region3420.

Referring toFIG. 34B, an image3450corresponding to the re-selected protocol may be overlaid and displayed on the first region3410having the changed location, i.e., the first region3420.

FIGS. 35A and 35Bshow diagrams for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

The display unit620may display a first image including an object.

Then, when a first region is selected from the first image, the UI unit630may output a first list including at least one image item obtained by using the first image, and receive a selection on a predetermined item from the first list.

The control unit610may control a second image corresponding to the predetermined item selected through the UI unit630to be overlaid and displayed on the first region.

Referring toFIG. 35A, a screen3500displayed on the display unit620includes the first image810and a first list3510.

Referring toFIG. 35A, when the first region820is selected, the medical image providing apparatus600may automatically output the first list3510.

Here, the first list3510includes image items obtained by using the first image810. In detail, when the first image810is an image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying a predetermined protocol, an image that is reconstructed, calculated, or post-processed by using the image data may be included in the first list3510.

For example, when the first image810is a T2-weighted image obtained by applying a T2W protocol, a T2 flair image or a T2 map may be obtained via a post-process or a separate calculation using image data obtained by applying the T2W protocol. Accordingly, as described above, the first list3510may include a T2W item, a T2 flair item, and a T2 map item.

Alternatively, referring toFIG. 35B, when the first image810is a perfusion image obtained by applying a perfusion protocol, an MTT map, a CBF map, or a CBV map may be obtained via a post-process or separate calculation using image data obtained by applying the perfusion protocol. Accordingly, a first list3560displayed on a screen3550may include an MTT map item, a CBF map item, and a CBV map item.

FIG. 36shows a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 36illustrates a screen3600output by the display unit620. InFIG. 36, a first image3610included in the screen3600is a CT image, and a first list3630includes CT protocols. For example, the first list3630may include protocols applied to CT scan, such as a CT perfusion protocol3631and a CT angiography protocol3632indicating a ‘DSA protocol’. Also, when the CT perfusion protocol3631is selected from the first list3630, the control unit610may control an image obtained according to a perfusion protocol to be overlaid and displayed on a first region3620.

FIG. 37shows a diagram for describing operations of the medical image providing apparatus600, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 37illustrates a screen3700output by the display unit620. Since the screen3700ofFIG. 37is the same as the screen3600ofFIG. 36except for a second list3730including at least one image obtained based on image data obtained by applying at least one protocol, descriptions thereof that are the same as those of the screen3600ofFIG. 36are not provided here.

Referring toFIG. 37, the second list3730includes at least one image obtained based on image data obtained by applying CT protocols. The at least one image included in the second list3730may be an image of an object or a partial image indicating a region of the object. InFIG. 37, the second list3730includes the image of the object.

In detail, the second list3730includes a perfusion image3731obtained by applying a CT perfusion protocol, and a CT angiography image3732obtained by applying a CT angiography protocol indicating a ‘DSA protocol’. When the perfusion image3731is selected from the second list3730, the control unit610may control a partial image included in the perfusion image3731to be overlaid and displayed on the first region3620.

FIG. 38is a flowchart of a medical image processing method3800according to an exemplary embodiment. The medical image processing method3800according to an exemplary embodiment may be performed by the medical image providing apparatus500or600described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 37. Also, since operations of the medical image processing method3800include the same features as operations of the medical image providing apparatus500or600, descriptions thereof that are the same as those ofFIGS. 1 through 37are not provided again. Hereinafter, a medical imaging processing method according to one or more exemplary embodiments will be described by referring to the medical image providing apparatus600ofFIG. 6.

According to the medical image processing method3800, a first image including an object is displayed in operation3810. Operation3810may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

When a first region included in the first image is selected, a first list including at least one protocol applied while scanning the object is output in operation3820. Operation3820may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A selection of a first protocol included in the first list is received through a UI in operation3830. Operation3830may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol selected in operation3830is overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image in operation3840. Operation3840may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610. In detail, the second image is an image corresponding to a region of the object included in the first region.

FIG. 39is a flowchart of a medical image processing method3900according to another exemplary embodiment. The medical image processing method3900according to an exemplary embodiment may be performed by the medical image providing apparatus500or600described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 37. Also, since operations of the medical image processing method3900include the same features as operations of the medical image providing apparatus500or600, descriptions thereof that are the same as those ofFIGS. 1 through 37are not provided again.

According to the medical image processing method3900, a first image including an object is displayed in operation3910. Operation3910may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

When a first region included in the first image is selected, a first list including at least one reconstructed image that is reconstructed by using at least one piece of image data obtained by applying at least one protocol applied while scanning the object is output in operation3920. Operation3920may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A selection of a first reconstructed image included in the first list is received through a UI, in operation3930. Operation3930may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

In operation3940, a second image is overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image by using the first reconstructed image selected in operation3930. Operation3940may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610. In detail, a partial image of the first reconstructed image, which corresponds to the first region, is overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image.

FIG. 40is a flowchart of a medical image processing method4000according to another exemplary embodiment. The medical image processing method4000according to an exemplary embodiment may be performed by the medical image providing apparatus500or600described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 37. Also, since operations of the medical image processing method4000include the same features as operations of the medical image providing apparatus500or600, descriptions thereof that are the same as those ofFIGS. 1 through 37are not provided again.

According to the medical image processing method4000, a first image including an object is displayed in operation4010. Operation4010may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

A selection of a first region of the first image is received through a UI in operation4020. Operation4020may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A second image reconstructed by using first image data obtained by scanning the object by applying a first protocol is overlaid and displayed on the first region of the first image in operation4030. Operation4030may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

FIG. 41is a flowchart of a medical image processing method4100according to another exemplary embodiment. The medical image processing method4100according to an exemplary embodiment may be performed by the medical image providing apparatus500or600described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 37. Also, since operations of the medical image processing method4100include the same features as operations of the medical image providing apparatus500or600, descriptions thereof that are the same as those of the medical image providing apparatus500or600ofFIGS. 1 through 37are not provided again.

A screen including a first list including at least one protocol applied while scanning an object is displayed in operation4110. Operation4110may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

A selection of a first protocol from the first list is received through a UI in operation4120. Operation4120may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

Then, a first region is set in the first image including the object in operation4130. Operation4130may be performed by the control unit610. Alternatively, when the first region is set based on a user input, operation4130may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A second image reconstructed by using image data obtained by applying the first protocol is overlaid and displayed on the first region in operation4140. Operation4140may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

FIG. 42is a flowchart of a medical image processing method4200according to another exemplary embodiment. The medical image processing method4200according to an exemplary embodiment may be performed by the medical image providing apparatus500or600described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 37. Also, since operations of the medical image processing method4200include the same features as operations of the medical image providing apparatus500or600, descriptions thereof that are the same as those of the medical image providing apparatus500or600ofFIGS. 1 through 37are not provided again.

According to the medical image processing method4200, a first image including an object is displayed in operation4210. Operation4210may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

A selection of a predetermined item included in the first list is received through a UI in operation4220. Operation4220may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A selection of a first region from the first image is received through a UI in operation4230. Operation4220may be performed by the UI unit630under control of the control unit610.

A second image corresponding to the predetermined item selected in operation4220is overlaid and displayed on the first region in operation4240. Operation4240may be performed by the display unit620under control of the control unit610.

As described above, according to the one or more of the above exemplary embodiments, a medical image providing apparatus and a medical image processing method of the same may provide a UI screen for a user, such as a doctor, to easily read a medical image of a patient.

The medical image providing apparatus and the medical image processing method of the same may enable the user to further accurately read a predetermined region of an object by using at least one medical image reconstructed by scanning the object by applying at least one protocol.

Accordingly, the user may further easily diagnose a disease and read the medical image.

The exemplary embodiments can be written as computer programs and can be implemented in digital computers that execute the programs using a computer-readable recording medium.

Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic storage media (e.g., ROM, floppy disks, hard disks, etc.), optical recording media (e.g., CD-ROMs or DVDs), etc.