Patent Description:
Radiation therapy is a localized treatment for a specific target tissue (a planning target volume), such as a cancerous tumor. Ideally, radiation therapy performed on the planning target volume spares the surrounding normal tissue from receiving doses above specified tolerances, thereby minimizing risk of damage to healthy tissue. Prior to the delivery of radiation therapy, an imaging system is typically employed to provide a three-dimensional image of the target tissue and surrounding area. For example, a treatment planning scan is often performed via computed tomography (CT) to generate the three-dimensional image. From such imaging, the size and mass of the target tissue can be estimated, a planning target volume determined, and an appropriate treatment plan generated.

To define the scan range of the treatment planning scan and ensure that the region of interest of patient anatomy is captured in the treatment planning scan, one or more scout scans of the patient (also referred to as topograms) are performed immediately prior to the treatment planning scan. A topogram is a <NUM>-dimensional X-ray image of a region of interest that is acquired using a CT scanner, but is not used to reconstruct a three-dimensional region of slices.

With a conventional CT scanner, the patient is loaded on the couch, and the user adjusts the couch position so that the region of interest is located within the field of view of the CT scanner. Then, the user sets the boundaries for one or more scout scans, such as a side view and a plan view of the region of interest, and the one or more scout scans of the patient anatomy are acquired. Visual analysis of these scout scans reveals the approximate location of the target tissue within the area of interest and, based on that location, a suitable treatment planning scan can be acquired of the target tissue and surrounding patient anatomy.

Prior to the scout scan, the location of the target tissue within a region of interest is unknown to the user of the CT scanner. Therefore, it is important that the region of interest is centered as much as possible in the portion of patient anatomy that is imaged by the CT scanner prior to acquisition of the scout scan. Otherwise, the target tissue may be partially or completely outside the portion of patient anatomy that is imaged in the scout scan. When that is the case, additional scout scans must be acquired, which is time-consuming and results in additional radiation dosing of the patient. Further, when the scout scan is performed in conjunction with patient immobilization, a scanning process of longer duration can be uncomfortable for the patient.

One drawback to a conventional CT scanner is that, prior to obtaining a scout image, centering a region of interest of patient anatomy relative to the CT scanner coordinates can be difficult and time consuming. Because anatomical dimensions and radiation therapy targets vary widely from patient to patient, a particular region of interest, such as the head, abdomen, thorax, etc., cannot be centered for a scout scan acquisition using a predetermined couch position. Instead, for any given patient, the user must manually fine-tune couch longitudinal positions until the region of interest appears to be centered in the field of view of the CT scanner for the scout image. Such an approach can require multiple iterations of couch repositioning or additional scout-scan views, which consumes valuable scanner time and may result in patient discomfort or additional radiation exposure. Further, such an approach is subject to human error, which can require additional scout scan acquisitions when the target tissue within the region of interest is partially or completely outside the field of view of an acquired scout scan.

<CIT> discloses an apparatus configured to create a scan protocol with an interactive tool and evaluate adherence to the protocol.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for techniques to facilitate the setup of a radiation therapy system for a scout scan.

In accordance with at least some embodiments, a computed tomography (CT) imaging system is configured to facilitate boundary selection for a CT scout scan and accurate positioning of a patient for the scout scan. Specifically, during patient setup, a graphical user interface (GUI) of the CT imaging system displays a graphical representation of a movable support couch of the CT imaging system, where the graphical representation includes one or more reference markers that each correspond to a different physical feature of the movable support couch. Thus, when the patient is positioned on the movable support couch, the user can visually identify the location of a region of interest of patient anatomy relative to a particular physical feature of the movable support couch. Then, via the GUI, the user defines boundaries of the scout scan relative to a reference marker in the GUI that corresponds to that particular physical feature. In some embodiments, the CT imaging system is incorporated in a radiation therapy system. In such embodiments, a treatment-delivering X-ray source of the radiation therapy system and an imaging X-ray source of the CT imaging system can both be configured to rotate about a common isocenter.

In accordance with at least some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for an X-ray imaging system includes: causing a graphical representation of a movable support couch of the X-ray imaging system to be displayed, wherein the graphical representation includes one or more reference markers that each correspond to a respective physical feature of the movable support couch; receiving a first user input that includes a first position indicator that corresponds to a first boundary of an X-ray imaging region; and generating an X-ray image of the X-ray imaging region, wherein a first edge of the X-ray image corresponds to the first boundary.

According to another embodiment, the method further comprises receiving a second user input that includes a second position indicator that corresponds to a second boundary of the X-ray imaging region, wherein a second edge of the X-ray image corresponds to the second boundary. The first boundary may comprise a first longitudinal boundary of the X-ray imaging region and the second boundary may comprise a second longitudinal boundary of the X-ray imaging region. Alternatively, the first boundary may comprise a first lateral boundary of the X-ray imaging region and the second boundary may comprise a second lateral boundary of the X-ray imaging region.

In accordance with at least some embodiments, an X-ray imaging system includes: a movable support couch; an imaging X-ray source configured to direct imaging X-rays to an X-ray imaging region proximate the movable support couch; and a processor. The processor is configured to perform the steps of: causing a graphical representation of the movable support couch to be displayed, wherein the graphical representation includes one or more reference markers that each correspond to a respective physical feature of the movable support couch; receiving a first user input that includes a first position indicator that corresponds to a first boundary of the X-ray imaging region; and generating an X-ray image of the X-ray imaging region, wherein a first edge of the X-ray image corresponds to the first boundary.

According to another embodiment, each of the one or more reference markers of the X-ray imaging system corresponds to a respective longitudinal position on the movable support couch.

Further embodiments include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that cause a computer system to carry out one or more of the above methods, as well as a computer system configured to carry out one or more of the above methods.

The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. The disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise.

It will be readily understood that the aspects of the disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make part of this disclosure.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a radiation therapy (RT) system <NUM>, according to various embodiments. RT system <NUM> is configured to image patient anatomy surrounding a planning target volume, such as a tumor, and reconstruct a digital volume of the patient anatomy that includes the planning target volume. In some embodiments, radiation therapy system <NUM> performs such imaging via a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) process using one or more imagers incorporated in radiation therapy system <NUM>, such as one or more kilovolt (kV) X-ray imagers. In some embodiments, RT system <NUM> is a radiation system configured to detect inter-fraction motion using X-ray imaging techniques. In some embodiments, RT system <NUM> is a radiation system configured to detect intra-fraction motion in near-real time using X-ray imaging techniques. Thus, in such embodiments, RT system <NUM> is configured to provide stereotactic radiosurgery and precision radiotherapy for lesions, tumors, and conditions anywhere in the body where radiation treatment is indicated. As such, RT system <NUM> can include one or more of a linear accelerator (LINAC) that generates a megavolt (MV) treatment beam of high energy X-rays, one or more kilovolt (kV) X-ray sources, one or more X-ray imagers, and, in some embodiments, an MV electronic portal imaging device (EPID). By way of example, RT system <NUM> is described herein configured with a circular gantry. In other embodiments, RT system <NUM> can be configured with a C-gantry capable of infinite rotation via a slip ring connection.

Generally, RT system <NUM> is capable of kV imaging of a target volume, to generate treatment planning image information (such as a treatment planning scan) and/or to generate images during a radiation therapy treatment fraction. Thus, in some embodiments, RT system <NUM> can be employed in addition to or instead of a treatment planning computed tomography imager. Further, in some embodiments, RT system is configured to image a target volume immediately prior to and/or during application of an MV treatment beam, so that an image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) process and/or an intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) process can be performed using X-ray imaging. RT system <NUM> may include one or more touchscreens <NUM>, couch motion controls <NUM>, a bore <NUM>, a base positioning assembly <NUM>, a couch <NUM> disposed on base positioning assembly <NUM>, and an image acquisition and treatment control computer <NUM>, all of which are disposed within a treatment room. RT system <NUM> further includes a remote control console <NUM>, which is disposed outside the treatment room and enables treatment delivery and patient monitoring from a remote location. Base positioning assembly <NUM> is configured to precisely position couch <NUM> with respect to bore <NUM>, and motion controls <NUM> include input devices, such as button and/or switches, that enable a user to operate base positioning assembly <NUM> to automatically and precisely position couch <NUM> to a predetermined location with respect to bore <NUM>. Motion controls <NUM> also enable a user to manually position couch <NUM> to a predetermined location.

<FIG> schematically illustrates a drive stand <NUM> and gantry <NUM> of RT system <NUM>, according to various embodiments. Covers, base positioning assembly <NUM>, couch <NUM>, and other components of RT system <NUM> are omitted in <FIG> for clarity. Drive stand <NUM> is a fixed support structure for components of RT system <NUM>, including gantry <NUM> and a drive system <NUM> for rotatably moving gantry <NUM>. Drive stand <NUM> rests on and/or is fixed to a support surface that is external to RT system <NUM>, such as a floor of an RT treatment facility. Gantry <NUM> is rotationally coupled to drive stand <NUM> and is a support structure on which various components of RT system <NUM> are mounted, including a linear accelerator (LINAC) <NUM>, an MV electronic portal imaging device (EPID) <NUM>, an imaging X-ray source <NUM>, and an X-ray imager <NUM>. During operation of RT system <NUM>, gantry <NUM> rotates about bore <NUM> when actuated by drive system <NUM>.

Drive system <NUM> rotationally actuates gantry <NUM>. In some embodiments, drive system <NUM> includes a linear motor that can be fixed to drive stand <NUM> and interacts with a magnetic track (not shown) mounted on gantry <NUM>. In other embodiments, drive system <NUM> includes another suitable drive mechanism for precisely rotating gantry <NUM> about bore <NUM>. LINAC <NUM> generates an MV treatment beam <NUM> of high energy X-rays (or in some embodiments electrons, protons, and/or other heavy charged particles, ultra-high dose rate X-rays (e.g., for FLASH radiotherapy) or microbeams for microbeam radiation therapy) and EPID <NUM> is configured to acquire X-ray images with treatment beam <NUM>. Imaging X-ray source <NUM> is configured to direct a conical beam of X-rays, referred to herein as imaging X-rays <NUM>, through an isocenter <NUM> of RT system <NUM> to X-ray imager <NUM>, and isocenter <NUM> typically corresponds to the location of a target volume <NUM> to be treated. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, X-ray imager <NUM> is depicted as a planar device, whereas in other embodiments, X-ray imager <NUM> can have a curved configuration.

X-ray imager <NUM> receives imaging X-rays <NUM> and generates suitable projection images therefrom. According to certain embodiments, such projection images can then be employed to construct or update portions of imaging data for a digital volume that corresponds to a three-dimensional (3D) region that includes target volume <NUM>. That is, a 3D image of such a 3D region is reconstructed from the projection images. In some embodiments, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and/or digital tomosynthesis (DTS) can be used to process the projection images generated by X-ray imager <NUM>. CBCT is typically employed to acquire projection images over a relatively long acquisition arc, for example over a rotation of <NUM>° or more of gantry <NUM>. As a result, a high-quality 3D reconstruction of the imaged volume can be generated. In some embodiments, CBCT can be employed to generate treatment planning images. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, CBCT is employed at the beginning of a radiation therapy session to generate a set-up 3D reconstruction. For example, CBCT may be employed immediately prior to application of treatment beam <NUM> to generate a 3D reconstruction confirming that target volume <NUM> has not moved or changed shape. Alternatively, or additionally, in some embodiments, partial-data reconstruction is performed by RT system <NUM> during portions of an IGRT or IMRT process in which partial image data is employed to generate a 3D reconstruction of target volume <NUM>. For example, as treatment beam <NUM> is directed to isocenter <NUM> while gantry <NUM> rotates through a treatment arc, DTS image acquisitions can be performed to generate image data for target volume <NUM>. Because DTS image acquisition is performed over a relatively short acquisition arc, for example between about <NUM>° and <NUM>°, near real-time feedback for the shape and position of target volume <NUM> can be provided by DTS imaging during the IGRT process.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, RT system <NUM> includes a single X-ray imager and a single corresponding imaging X-ray source. In other embodiments, RT system <NUM> can include two or more X-ray imagers, each with a corresponding imaging X-ray source. One such embodiment is illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates a drive stand <NUM> and gantry <NUM> of RT system <NUM>, according to various embodiments. Drive stand <NUM> and gantry <NUM> are substantially similar in configuration to drive stand <NUM> and gantry <NUM> in <FIG>, except that the components of RT system <NUM> that are mounted on gantry <NUM> include a first imaging X-ray source <NUM>, a first X-ray imager <NUM>, a second imaging X-ray source <NUM>, and a second X-ray imager <NUM>. In such embodiments, the inclusion of multiple X-ray imagers in RT system <NUM> facilitates the generation of projection images (for reconstructing the target volume) over a shorter image acquisition arc. For instance, when RT system <NUM> includes two X-ray imagers and corresponding X-ray sources, an image acquisition arc for acquiring projection images of a certain image quality can be approximately half that for acquiring projection images of a similar image quality with a single X-ray imager and X-ray source.

The projection images generated by X-ray imager <NUM> (or by first x-ray imager <NUM> and second X-ray imager <NUM>) are used to construct imaging data for a digital volume of patient anatomy within a 3D region that includes the target volume. Alternatively or additionally, such projection images can be used to update portions of existing imaging data for the digital volume corresponding to the 3D region. One embodiment of such a digital volume is described below in conjunction with <FIG>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates a digital volume <NUM> that is constructed based on projection images of an anatomical region generated by one or more X-ray imagers included in RT system <NUM>, according to various embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the projection images can be generated by a single X-ray imager, such as X-ray imager <NUM>, and in other embodiments the projection images can be generated by multiple X-ray imagers, such as first x-ray imager <NUM> and second X-ray imager <NUM>.

Digital volume <NUM> includes a plurality of voxels <NUM> (dashed lines) of anatomical image data, where each voxel <NUM> corresponds to a different location within digital volume <NUM>. For clarity, only a single voxel <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. Digital volume <NUM> corresponds to a 3D region that includes target volume <NUM>. In <FIG>, digital volume <NUM> is depicted as an 8x8x8 voxel cube, but in practice, digital volume <NUM> generally includes many more voxels, for example orders of magnitude more than are shown in <FIG>.

For purposes of discussion, target volume <NUM> can refer to the GTV, CTV, or the PTV for a particular treatment. The GTV depicts the position and extent of the gross tumor, for example what can be seen or imaged; the CTV includes the GTV and an additional margin for sub-clinical disease spread, which is generally not imageable; and the PTV is a geometric concept designed to ensure that a suitable radiotherapy dose is actually delivered to the CTV without adversely affecting nearby organs at risk. Thus, the PTV is generally larger than the CTV, but in some situations can also be reduced in some portions to provide a safety margin around an organ at risk. The PTV is typically determined based on imaging performed prior to the time of treatment, and alignment of the PTV with the current position of patient anatomy at the time of treatment is facilitated by X-ray imaging of digital volume <NUM>.

Generally, image information associated with each voxel <NUM> of digital volume <NUM> is constructed via projection images generated by single or multiple X-ray imagers via a CBCT process. For example, such a CBCT process can be a treatment planning scan of a region of interest of patient anatomy. As noted previously, a scout scan of the region of interest is first performed to define the scan range of the treatment planning scan and ensure that the PTV is captured in the treatment planning scan.

According to various embodiments, a CT imaging system is configured to facilitate boundary selection for a scout scan and accurate positioning of a patient for the scout scan. During patient setup, a graphical user interface (GUI) of the CT imaging system displays a graphical representation of a movable support couch of the CT imaging system, where the graphical representation includes one or more reference markers that each correspond to a different physical feature of the movable support couch. One such embodiment is described below in conjunction with <FIG>.

<FIG> sets forth a flowchart of a method <NUM> for the setup and performance of CT scout scans with an X-ray system, according to one or more embodiments. Method <NUM> may include one or more operations, functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks <NUM> - <NUM>. Although the blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may be performed in parallel, and/or in a different order than those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combined into fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or eliminated based upon the desired implementation. Although method <NUM> is described in conjunction with RT system <NUM> and <FIG>, persons skilled in the art will understand that any suitably configured X-ray imaging system is within the scope of the present embodiments. <FIG> schematically illustrate a graphical user interface (GUI) <NUM> of RT system <NUM> displayed by a remote display screen and/or a treatment room display screen at certain steps of method <NUM>, according to various embodiments.

Method <NUM> is generally performed in response to a particular patient receiving a diagnosis that necessitates radiation therapy and thus the generation of a radiation therapy treatment plan. As noted previously, such a treatment plan is typically generated based on a digital volume, such as digital volume <NUM>, that includes a target volume, such as target volume <NUM>. The digital volume is reconstructed based on imaging information obtained via a treatment planning scan that is performed using an X-ray imaging system, such as the onboard X-ray imaging of RT system <NUM>. According to various embodiments, the scan range of the treatment planning scan is defined based on one or more scout scans of the patient that are performed, as described below, immediately prior to the treatment planning scan. In some embodiments, prior to method <NUM>, the patient is positioned on couch <NUM>, and couch <NUM> is moved to a zero position. In some instances, the patient is positioned in conjunction with prescribed immobilization, so that a suitable patient position is maintained during the treatment planning scan. Alternatively or additionally, in some instances, the patient is administered with a prescribed contrast medium, which can be administered intravenously or ingested.

Method <NUM> begins at step <NUM>, where RT system <NUM> displays a GUI <NUM> at a display screen, as shown in <FIG>. For example, in some embodiments, the display screen is a display screen associated with a treatment room display, such as touchscreen <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, GUI <NUM> displays GUI <NUM> at remote control console <NUM>. In either case, GUI <NUM> includes a graphical representation <NUM> of a movable support couch that is employed in the scout scan performed in method <NUM>, such as couch <NUM>.

In some embodiments, graphical representation <NUM> includes one or more reference markers <NUM> that each correspond to a different respective physical feature of the movable support couch. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, when a patient is positioned face-up and head-first on couch <NUM>, graphical representation <NUM> includes one or more reference markers <NUM> that correspond to first longitudinal position indicators formed on couch <NUM>, one or more reference markers <NUM> that correspond to second longitudinal position indicators formed on couch <NUM>, one or more reference markers <NUM> that correspond to third longitudinal position indicators formed on couch <NUM>, and so on. For example, the first, second, and/or third longitudinal position indicators can be physical features formed on the edges of couch <NUM>, such as notches or projections. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the first, second, and/or third longitudinal position indicators can be graduations or other markings formed on one or more surfaces of couch <NUM> at different longitudinal positions, such as stripes, numerals, and/or other markings.

In such embodiments, such longitudinal position indicators visually indicate to the user a predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>. Thus, in an embodiment, the first longitudinal position indicators (which correspond to reference markers <NUM>) visually indicate to the user viewing the patient a first predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>; the second longitudinal position indicators (which correspond to reference markers <NUM>) visually indicate to the user a second predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>; the third longitudinal position indicators (which correspond to reference markers <NUM>) indicate to the user a third predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>; and so on. Consequently, reference markers <NUM> display, in GUI <NUM>, the location of the first predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>; reference markers <NUM> display, in GUI <NUM>, the location of the second predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>; and reference markers <NUM> display, in GUI <NUM>, the location of the third predetermined longitudinal position on couch <NUM>. As a result, when a patient is positioned on couch <NUM> and a region of interest of patient anatomy occupies a particular position on couch <NUM>, a user can visually determine a location in graphical representation <NUM> that corresponds to the particular longitudinal (head-to-toe) position that is occupied on couch <NUM> by the region of interest.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, multiple reference markers <NUM> correspond to a specific longitudinal position along a longitudinal axis <NUM> (such as the major axis) of couch <NUM>. For example, one of reference markers <NUM> corresponds to a left-hand edge of couch <NUM> and another reference marker <NUM> corresponds to a right-hand edge of couch <NUM>, but both of reference markers <NUM> correspond to the same longitudinal position. Similarly, one of reference markers <NUM> corresponds to a left-hand edge of couch <NUM> and another reference marker <NUM> corresponds to a right-hand edge of couch <NUM>, but both of reference markers <NUM> correspond to the same longitudinal position.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, reference markers <NUM> correspond to physical features of a movable support couch that are positioned at different longitudinal locations along longitudinal axis <NUM> of couch <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, some or all of reference markers <NUM> correspond to physical features of a movable support couch that are positioned at different locations along a different axis of couch <NUM>, such as a lateral axis <NUM>. Thus, in such embodiments, a user can visually determine a location in graphical representation <NUM> that corresponds to the particular lateral (left-to-right) position occupied on couch <NUM> by a region of interest of patient anatomy. For example, in one such embodiment, a reference marker <NUM> corresponds to a physical feature of couch <NUM> that indicates a lateral position on couch <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, graphical representation <NUM> includes a pictogram <NUM> of at least a portion of a perimeter of couch <NUM>. In such embodiments, pictogram <NUM> provides additional two-dimensional visual cues to the user that can further facilitate the translation of the actual position on couch <NUM> that is occupied by a region of interest to a location within GUI <NUM>. In some embodiments, to better facilitate the visual cues provided by pictogram <NUM>, pictogram is a scaled diagram of some or all of the perimeter of couch <NUM>. That is, in such embodiments, the two dimensions of pictogram <NUM> are reduced equally from the actual size of couch <NUM>, so that pictogram <NUM> is an accurate visual representation of the geometry of some or all of the perimeter of couch <NUM>.

In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> receives a user input that defines a boundary of the scout scan to be performed, for example via GIU <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the user input can be received when the user makes an appropriate selection with GUI <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, the user positions or moves a position indicator <NUM> to a location that corresponds to a boundary of an X-ray imaging region associated with the scout scan to be performed. For example, the user may position indicator <NUM> via a mouse click or finger tap <NUM>.

In embodiments in which a patient is positioned face-up and head-first on couch <NUM> and a boundary of a frontal (or plan-view) scout scan is being defined, the position indicator <NUM> can be one of a first longitudinal boundary marker (such as a superior boundary marker), a second longitudinal boundary marker (such as an inferior boundary marker), a first lateral boundary marker (such as a left boundary marker), or a second lateral boundary marker (such as a right boundary marker). Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments in which a patient is positioned face-up and head-first on couch <NUM> and a boundary of a side-view scout scan is being defined, the position indicator <NUM> can be one of a first longitudinal boundary marker (such as a superior boundary marker), a second longitudinal boundary marker (such as an inferior boundary marker), a first vertical boundary marker (such as an anterior boundary marker), or a second vertical boundary marker (such as a posterior boundary marker).

Position indicator <NUM> indicates a boundary of an X-ray imaging region associated with the scout scan to be performed. Thus, in the embodiment, the hash-marked region corresponds to a region that lies outside of the scout scan to be performed. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, position indicator <NUM> serves as a superior boundary marker.

In step <NUM>, in response to the user input received in step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> determines whether additional scout scan boundaries are required to perform the scout scan. For example, in some embodiments, four scout scan boundaries are needed to define an X-ray imaging region of the scout scan. In some embodiments, two scout scan boundaries are needed to define an X-ray imaging region of the scout scan. In some embodiments, the boundaries for multiple scout scans may be required.

When RT system <NUM> determines that additional scout scan boundaries are required, method <NUM> proceeds to step <NUM>; when RT system <NUM> determines no additional scout scan boundaries are required, method <NUM> proceeds to step <NUM>. In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> displays a user prompt for additional inputs that define additional scout scan boundaries.

In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> displays a prompt for user confirmation of the scout scan boundaries currently defined by the user, for example by the position indicators <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Step <NUM> is performed in response to RT system <NUM> determining that no additional scout scan boundaries are required to perform the scout scan. In <FIG>, the scout scan boundaries of an X-ray imaging region <NUM> of the scout scan are defined by multiple position indicators <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, assuming the patient is positioned head first and supine and the scout scan is acquired with a downward view, position indicator <NUM> defines a superior boundary of the scout scan, position indicator <NUM> defines an inferior boundary of the scout scan, position indicator <NUM> defines a left boundary of the scout scan, and position indicator <NUM> defines a right boundary of the scout scan. Alternatively, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, when the patient is positioned differently (e.g. head first and face-down, feet first and supine, etc.) and/or the scout scan is acquired with an upward view, position indicator <NUM>, position indicator <NUM>, position indicator <NUM>, and/or position indicator <NUM> can each define different boundaries. For example, assuming the patient is positioned head first and supine and an upward view is employed to generate the scout scan, position indicator <NUM> defines a superior boundary of the scout scan, position indicator <NUM> defines an inferior boundary of the scout scan, position indicator <NUM> defines a right boundary of the scout scan, and position indicator <NUM> defines a left boundary of the scout scan. In some embodiments, RT system <NUM> further displays an indicator of an imaging isocenter <NUM> that corresponds to X-ray imaging region <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, imaging isocenter <NUM> corresponds to isocenter <NUM> in <FIG>. In such embodiments, couch <NUM> is repositioned prior to the scout scan being performed, so that imaging isocenter <NUM> is located relative to couch <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, four position indicators are employed to define X-ray imaging region <NUM>. In other embodiments, two position indicators can be employed to define an X-ray imaging region associated with a scout scan. For example, in one such embodiment, a first position indicator (e.g., position indicator <NUM>) defines a superior boundary of the scout scan and a second position indicator (e.g., position indicator <NUM>) defines an inferior boundary of the scout scan. Alternatively, in another such embodiments, a first position indicator (e.g., position indicator <NUM>) defines a left boundary of the scout scan and a second position indicator (e.g., position indicator <NUM>) defines a right boundary of the scout scan.

In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> receives a user input indicating confirmation of the scout scan boundaries, for example via GUI <NUM>. In step <NUM>, in response to receiving the user confirmation in step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> displays a prompt for user confirmation of other scout scan parameter values, such as specific values for scanning energy (kV), tube current (mAs), exposure time, exposure/dose (mSv), and the like. In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> receives a user input indicating confirmation of the specified scout scan parameter values, for example via GUI <NUM>.

In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> performs the scout scan based on the scout scan boundaries confirmed in step <NUM> and the scout scan parameters confirmed in step <NUM>. In some embodiments, RT system <NUM> performs multiple scout scans, such as two scout scans having orthogonal fields of view. For example, in one such embodiment, RT system <NUM> performs a frontal (or plan-view) scout scan and a side-view scout scan. In some embodiments, in step <NUM>, couch <NUM> is moved to a specified imaging location for each scout scan performed. Typically, each scout scan is a single X-ray projection image that is acquired by an imaging system of RT system <NUM>. In some embodiments, each of the one or more edges of such X-ray projection images corresponds to a different boundary of the scout scan, where each boundary is defined by a position indicator that is positioned based on user inputs as described above.

In step <NUM>, RT system <NUM> displays the scout scans acquired in step <NUM>.

<FIG> is an illustration of computing device <NUM> configured to perform various embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, in some embodiments, computing device <NUM> is implemented as or associated with image acquisition and treatment control computer <NUM> and/or remote control console <NUM>. Computing device <NUM> may be a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smart phone, or any other type of computing device suitable for practicing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In operation, computing device <NUM> is configured to execute instructions associated with computer-implemented method <NUM> as described herein. It is noted that the computing device described herein is illustrative and that any other technically feasible configurations fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown, computing device <NUM> includes, without limitation, an interconnect (bus) <NUM> that connects a processing unit <NUM>, an input/output (I/O) device interface <NUM> coupled to input/output (I/O) devices <NUM>, memory <NUM>, a storage <NUM>, and a network interface <NUM>. Processing unit <NUM> may be any suitable processor implemented as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), any other type of processing unit, or a combination of different processing units, such as a CPU configured to operate in conjunction with a GPU or digital signal processor (DSP). In general, processing unit <NUM> may be any technically feasible hardware unit capable of processing data and/or executing software applications, including computer-implemented method <NUM>.

I/O devices <NUM> may include devices capable of providing input, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch-sensitive screen, and so forth, as well as devices capable of providing output, such as a display device and the like. Additionally, I/O devices <NUM> may include devices capable of both receiving input and providing output, such as a touchscreen, a universal serial bus (USB) port, and so forth. I/O devices <NUM> may be configured to receive various types of input from an end-user of computing device <NUM>, and to also provide various types of output to the end-user of computing device <NUM>, such as displayed digital images or digital videos. In some embodiments, one or more of I/O devices <NUM> are configured to couple computing device <NUM> to a network.

Memory <NUM> may include a random access memory (RAM) module, a flash memory unit, or any other type of memory unit or combination thereof. Processing unit <NUM>, I/O device interface <NUM>, and network interface <NUM> are configured to read data from and write data to memory <NUM>. Memory <NUM> includes various software programs that can be executed by processor <NUM> and application data associated with said software programs, including computer-implemented method <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram of an illustrative embodiment of a computer program product <NUM> for implementing a method for segmenting an image, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Computer program product <NUM> may include a signal bearing medium <NUM>. Signal bearing medium <NUM> may include one or more sets of executable instructions <NUM> that, when executed by, for example, a processor of a computing device, may provide at least the functionality described above with respect to <FIG>.

In some implementations, signal bearing medium <NUM> may encompass a non-transitory computer readable medium <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, memory, etc. In some implementations, signal bearing medium <NUM> may encompass a recordable medium <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, memory, read/write (R/W) CDs, R/W DVDs, etc. In some implementations, signal bearing medium <NUM> may encompass a communications medium <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link, etc.). Computer program product <NUM> may be recorded on non-transitory computer readable medium <NUM> or another similar recordable medium <NUM>.

Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Aspects of the present embodiments may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a "circuit," "module" or "system. " Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.

Claim 1:
A computer-implemented method for an X-ray imaging system, the method comprising:
causing a graphical representation of a movable support couch (<NUM>) of the X-ray imaging system to be displayed, wherein the graphical representation includes one or more reference markers (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) that each correspond to a respective physical feature of the movable support couch (<NUM>);
receiving a first user input that includes a first position indicator (<NUM>) that corresponds to a first boundary of an X-ray imaging region (<NUM>); and
generating an X-ray image of the X-ray imaging region (<NUM>), wherein a first edge of the X-ray image corresponds to the first boundary.