JP2011252913A - Medical system - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to improve the reliability of communication of a radiation detection cassette and the reliability of a medical system by reliably transmitting image data to a host computer.
In an imaging system having a radiation detector, a cassette having an image memory, and a cassette control unit, an imaging device, a display device, and a host computer, the cassette control unit is Prior to the transmission of the radiation image information, a capacitance value transmission unit that transmits the capacitance value of the radiation image information to the host computer 28 and an image transmission unit that transmits the radiation image information are included. An index display control unit that displays an index whose upper limit is the capacity value received from the cassette 24 on the device 26, and extends toward the index during reception of the radiation image information and receives radiation image information. A bar display control unit that displays a bar image having a length corresponding to the capacitance value.
[Selection] Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a radiation detection cassette provided with a radiation conversion panel that detects radiation transmitted through a subject and converts it into radiation image information, and a medical system using the cassette.

  2. Description of the Related Art In the medical field, a radiation image capturing apparatus that irradiates a subject with radiation and guides the radiation transmitted through the subject to a radiation conversion panel to capture a radiation image is widely used. In this case, the radiation conversion panel is a conventional radiation film in which a radiation image is exposed and recorded, or radiation energy as a radiation image is accumulated in a phosphor and irradiated with excitation light, and the radiation image is then emitted as a stimulating light. A storage phosphor panel that can be taken out as is known. These radiation conversion panels supply a radiation film on which a radiographic image is recorded to a developing device to perform development processing, or supply a stimulable phosphor panel to a reading device to perform reading processing so that a visible image can be obtained. A radiographic image is obtained.

  On the other hand, in an operating room or the like, it is necessary to be able to immediately read out and display a radiation image from a radiation conversion panel after imaging in order to perform a quick and accurate treatment on a patient. Radiation detection using a solid-state detector that converts radiation directly into electrical signals, or converts radiation into visible light with a scintillator and then converts it into electrical signals to read out as a radiation conversion panel that can meet such demands A vessel has been developed.

  In a radiographic imaging system using a radiation conversion panel, radiation image information detected by the radiation conversion panel is transmitted to a host computer. For example, techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 are proposed. Has been.

  The technique according to Patent Document 1 uses a radiation detection cassette containing a radiation detector, converts image data from the radiation detection cassette into a radio signal by an image data transfer means, and transfers the signal to an external signal receiver. Is not necessary, and it has the merit of being easy to use because it is independent of the controller and can be photographed at a distant position. The image data can be transferred with a cable, and the power supply and the data transfer can be performed with a single cable.

  The technique according to Patent Document 2 receives imaging order information from an external device, stores the received order information, and associates the stored order information with an image signal output from the radiation solid state detector to the external device. This is a transmission method, and can greatly reduce the workload of the technician who performs the shooting.

  The technique according to Patent Document 3 includes a wired communication unit that transmits / receives digital image data or imaging control signals to / from the outside of the apparatus body via a cable, and digital image data or imaging control signals to / from the apparatus body outside via a cable. It has a wireless communication unit for wireless transmission and reception, and it is possible to easily switch between data communication method and power supply method by attaching and detaching the cable, and it is possible to select data communication speed priority or device body priority according to the application There is a merit that

JP 2003-172783 A JP 2004-141240 A JP 2005-006979 A

  However, in a conventional medical system using a radiation detection cassette containing a radiation detector, there is no means for displaying the communication state of image data or means for maintaining the communication state. That is, since it is currently unknown whether transmission of image data from the radiation detector to the host computer is in progress or has been completed, the battery may be removed from the radiation detection cassette while image data is being transmitted, There is a problem that the reliability of storing image data in the host computer is low, such as an operator operating the host computer starting the next processing.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of such problems, and by providing means for displaying the communication state of image data or means for maintaining the communication state, the image data is reliably transmitted to the host computer. An object of the present invention is to provide a radiation detection cassette and a medical system that can improve the reliability of communication of the radiation detection cassette and the reliability of the medical system.

A radiation detection cassette according to a first aspect of the present invention is a radiation conversion panel that is housed in a casing, detects radiation that has passed through a subject, and converts it into radiation image information, and radiation image information detected by the radiation conversion panel. In a radiation detection cassette having a memory to store, at least communication means for transmitting the radiation image information to the outside, and a control unit,
The casing has a communication maintaining means for maintaining transmission of the radiation image information at least during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication means.

A medical system according to a second aspect of the present invention stores a radiation conversion panel that is contained in a casing, detects radiation transmitted through a subject, and converts it into radiation image information, and radiation image information detected by the radiation conversion panel. A radiation detection cassette having a memory, a communication means for transmitting at least the radiation image information to the outside, and a cassette control unit;
An imaging device that emits radiation toward the subject;
A host computer for exchanging information with the cassette to control the imaging device;
In a medical system having a display device for displaying information from the host computer,
Prior to the transmission of the radiation image information, the cassette control unit includes a capacitance value transmission unit that transmits a capacitance value of the radiation image information to the host computer, and an image information transmission unit that transmits the radiation image information. Have
The host computer is configured to display on the display device an indicator having an upper limit on the capacitance value from the received radiation detection cassette, and in the period when the radiation image information is received, the indicator And a means for controlling to display a bar image having a length corresponding to the reception capacity value of the radiation image information.

  As described above, according to the radiation detection cassette and the medical system of the present invention, image data can be reliably transmitted to the host computer, the communication reliability of the radiation detection cassette, and the reliability of the medical system. Can be improved.

It is explanatory drawing of the operating room where the radiographic imaging system (imaging system) which concerns on 1st Embodiment was installed. It is a perspective view which abbreviate | omits and shows a part of internal structure of a cassette. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of a radiation detector. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an imaging | photography system. It is a perspective view which shows the example which provided the light emitting element in one side surface in the cassette. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a cassette control part. It is a block diagram which shows the function of the host computer which concerns on a bar display. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the frame image and bar image which are displayed on the display part of a display apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows the example which provided the liquid crystal display part in one side of a cassette. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a partially omitted configuration of a cassette control unit corresponding to the example of FIG. 9. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the frame image and bar image which are displayed on a liquid crystal display part. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a 1st locking mechanism. It is a block diagram which abbreviate | omits and shows a structure of the cassette control part corresponding to the example of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a 2nd locking mechanism. It is a block diagram which abbreviate | omits and shows a structure of the cassette control part corresponding to the example of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the other structural example of a cassette. It is a perspective view which shows one structural example of the cradle which charges a cassette.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the radiation detection cassette and medical system according to the present invention are applied to a radiographic imaging system will be described with reference to FIGS.

  A radiographic imaging system (hereinafter simply referred to as imaging system 10) according to the first embodiment is installed in an operating room 12, for example, as shown in FIG.

  In the operating room 12, in addition to the imaging system 10, an operating table 16 on which a patient 14 (subject) lies is placed, and an instrument table 20 on which various instruments used by a doctor 18 for surgery are placed. 16 side portions. In addition, around the operating table 16, various devices necessary for an operation, such as an anesthesia machine, an aspirator, an electrocardiograph, and a blood pressure monitor, are arranged.

  The imaging system 10 includes a radiation detection cassette including an imaging device 22 for irradiating a patient 14 with radiation X having a dose according to imaging conditions, and a radiation detector (described later) that detects the radiation X transmitted through the patient 14. (Hereinafter referred to as a cassette 24), a display device 26 for displaying a radiation image based on the radiation X detected by the radiation detector, and a host computer 28 for controlling the imaging device 22, the cassette 24 and the display device 26. . Signals are transmitted and received by wireless communication among the imaging device 22, the cassette 24, the display device 26, and the host computer 28. The host computer 28 includes a console (console 27) and a display unit 29.

  The imaging device 22 is connected to the first universal arm 30 and can be moved to a desired position according to the imaging region of the patient 14 and can be retracted to a position that does not obstruct the operation by the doctor 18. Similarly, the display device 26 is connected to the second free arm 32 and can be moved to a position where the doctor 18 can easily confirm the captured radiographic image.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the cassette 24 with a part of the internal structure omitted. The cassette 24 includes a casing 34 made of a material that transmits the radiation X. Inside the casing 34, a grid 38 for removing scattered radiation of the radiation X by the patient 14 from the irradiation surface 36 side of the casing 34 to which the radiation X is irradiated, and a radiation detector 40 for detecting the radiation X transmitted through the patient 14. (Radiation conversion panel) and a lead plate 42 that absorbs backscattered rays of radiation X are sequentially disposed. Note that the irradiation surface 36 of the casing 34 may be configured as a grid 38.

  The casing 34 includes a battery pack 45 that houses a battery 44 that is a power source of the cassette 24, a cassette control unit 46 that drives and controls the radiation detector 40 using electric power supplied from the battery 44, and a radiation detector. A communicator 48 that receives and transmits a signal including the information of the radiation X detected by 40 from the host computer 28 is accommodated. The cassette control unit 46 and the communication device 48 are preferably provided with a lead plate or the like on the irradiation surface 36 side of the casing 34 in order to avoid damage due to irradiation with the radiation X.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the radiation detector 40. The radiation detector 40 has a photoelectric conversion layer 51 made of a material such as amorphous selenium (a-Se) that senses the radiation X and generates charges on an array of thin film transistor (TFT) 52. After the generated charge is stored in the storage capacitor 53, the TFT 52 is sequentially turned on for each row, and the charge is read as an image signal. In FIG. 3, only the connection relationship between one pixel 50 including the photoelectric conversion layer 51 and the storage capacitor 53 and one TFT 52 is shown, and the configuration of the other pixels 50 is omitted. Amorphous selenium must be used within a predetermined temperature range because its structure changes and its function decreases at high temperatures. Therefore, it is preferable to provide means for cooling the radiation detector 40 in the radiation detection cassette 24.

  A gate line 54 extending parallel to the row direction and a signal line 56 extending parallel to the column direction are connected to the TFT 52 connected to each pixel 50. Each gate line 54 is connected to a line scanning drive unit 58, and each signal line 56 is connected to a multiplexer 66 constituting a reading circuit.

  Control signals Von and Voff for controlling on / off of the TFTs 52 arranged in the row direction are supplied from the line scanning drive unit 58 to the gate line 54. In this case, the line scan driving unit 58 includes a plurality of first switches SW1 that switch the gate lines 54, and a row address decoder 60 that outputs a selection signal for selecting one of the first switches SW1. The row address decoder 60 is supplied with an address signal from the cassette control unit 46.

  In addition, the charge held in the storage capacitor 53 of each pixel 50 flows out to the signal line 56 through the TFTs 52 arranged in the column direction. This charge is amplified by the amplifier 62. A multiplexer 66 is connected to the amplifier 62 via a sample and hold circuit 64. The multiplexer 66 includes a plurality of second switches SW2 for switching the signal lines 56, and a column address decoder 68 for outputting a selection signal for selecting one of the second switches SW2. An address signal is supplied from the cassette control unit 46 to the column address decoder 68. An A / D converter 70 is connected to the multiplexer 66, and radiation image information converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 70 is supplied to the cassette control unit 46.

  FIG. 4 is a configuration block diagram of the imaging system 10 including the imaging device 22, the cassette 24, the display device 26, and the host computer 28. The host computer 28 is connected to a radiology information system (RIS) 146 that comprehensively manages radiographic image information and other information handled in the radiology department in the hospital, and the RIS 146 is connected to the hospital computer 28 in the hospital. A medical information system (HIS) 148 that comprehensively manages medical information is connected.

  The imaging device 22 receives imaging conditions by radio communication from the imaging switch 74, the radiation source 76 that outputs radiation X, and the host computer 28, and transmits an imaging completion signal and the like by wireless communication to the host computer 28. A first transmitter / receiver 78 and a radiation source controller 80 that controls the radiation source 76 based on the imaging start signal supplied from the imaging switch 74 and the imaging conditions supplied from the first transmitter / receiver 78 are provided.

  The host computer 28 includes a second transmitter / receiver 82 that transmits and receives necessary information including radiographic image information to and from the imaging device 22, the cassette 24, and the display device 26 by radio communication, and imaging conditions necessary for imaging by the imaging device 22. An imaging condition management unit 84 for managing the image, a first image processing unit 86 for performing image processing on the radiographic image information transmitted from the cassette 24, an image memory 88 for storing the processed radiographic image information, and a patient to be imaged 14 includes a patient information management unit 90 that manages patient information and a cassette information management unit 92 that manages cassette information transmitted from the cassette 24. The host computer 28 may be installed outside the operating room 12 as long as it can transmit and receive signals to and from the imaging device 22, the cassette 24, and the display device 26 by wireless communication.

  The imaging conditions are conditions for determining a tube voltage, a tube current, an irradiation time, and the like for irradiating radiation X having an appropriate dose to an imaging region of the patient 14. And conditions such as a photographing method. The patient information is information for identifying the patient 14 such as the name, sex, and patient ID number of the patient 14. The imaging ordering information including these imaging conditions and patient information can be set directly by the host computer 28 using the console 27 or can be supplied to the host computer 28 from the outside via the RIS 146.

  Further, the cassette information may include cassette ID information and information on the current state of the cassette (battery remaining amount, etc.). In particular, when transmitted from the cassette 24 together with the radiation image information, information related to the radiation image information, for example, an image number, an imaging condition identification number, and the like are included in addition to the above-described information.

  The display device 26 displays a receiver 94 that receives radiation image information from the host computer 28, a display control unit 96 that performs display control of the received radiation image information, and the radiation image information processed by the display control unit 96. And a display unit 98.

  On the other hand, the cassette 24 accommodates a radiation detector 40, a battery 44, a cassette control unit 46, a communication device 48, and an image memory 102. As shown in FIG. 5, the light emitting element 104 is installed on one side surface 34 a of the casing 34 of the cassette 24.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the cassette control unit 46 establishes a link for performing data communication with the host computer 28, releases the link, and transmits and receives data, and the imaging from the host computer 28. Based on the reception of the end signal, an address signal is output to the radiation detector 40, and imaging data (meaning raw image data that has not been subjected to image processing) is extracted from the radiation detector 40 and stored in the image memory 102. Of the imaging data stored in the imaging data acquisition unit 108 to store, the image transmission buffer 110 in which the image data to be transmitted is temporarily held, and the image memory 102, the transmission request information from the host computer 28 Read the corresponding image data, perform necessary image processing (dark correction, light correction, defect correction, compression processing, etc.) and send the image A second image processing unit 112 temporarily stored in the buffer 110, a maximum transmission capacity calculating unit 114 that calculates the amount of image data (capacity value: the number of bits and the number of bytes) stored in the image transmission buffer 110, and an image Prior to data transmission, the calculated maximum capacity value is transmitted as text data to the host computer 28 via the data communication unit 106, and the image data stored in the image transmission buffer 110 is stored as data. An image transmission unit 118 that transmits via the communication unit 106 and a light emission control unit 120 that causes the light emitting element 104 to emit light during a period in which the image transmission unit 118 transmits image data.

  Here, the definition of the image data to be transmitted is the data stored in the image transmission buffer 110 by the second image processing unit 112, in addition to the image data, error correction code data for communication, quantization table, etc. Including the data is referred to as image data.

  The transmission request information from the host computer 28 is requested regardless of imaging, for example, imaging conditions transmitted to the cassette 24 at the start of imaging of the patient, an imaging end signal output when imaging is completed, and the like. There are image numbers etc.

  Therefore, if the transmission request information from the host computer 28 is a shooting condition, the second image processing unit 112 reads out the latest imaging data to be loaded into the image memory 102 after waiting for the input of the next shooting end signal. Necessary image processing is performed and the image data is stored in the image transmission buffer 110.

  If the transmission request information from the host computer 28 is an image number, the image data corresponding to the image number among the image data recorded in the image memory 102 is read by the second image processing unit 112 and necessary. Image processing is performed and the image data is stored in the image transmission buffer 110. The correspondence relationship between the image number and the storage address of the imaging data may be registered in a correspondence table stored in a data memory different from the image memory 102. Editing and updating of the correspondence table may be performed by the cassette control unit 46 when imaging data from the radiation detector 40 is recorded in the image memory 102.

  When the image data is transmitted to the host computer 28, the host computer 28 can easily recognize the correspondence between the image data and the image number by transmitting the image number together with the cassette ID information. That is, the image data transmission request by the image number includes an image data retransmission request and an image data transmission request having a different data format. The image data having a different data format is a request for transmitting compressed data if the image data already transmitted is uncompressed data, and a request for transmitting uncompressed data if the image data already transmitted is compressed data. Indicates.

  The data communication unit 106 establishes a link before performing data communication with the host computer 28 when a communication request signal is input from each unit of the cassette control unit 46, and when data communication with the host computer 28 is completed, the link is established. Release. When the link is released, a communication completion signal is output to the transmission source of the communication request signal to notify the completion of communication. To establish the link, an establishment request signal for establishing the link is output to the host computer 28 and an answer signal from the host computer 28 is awaited. A link is established when an answer signal is received. Thereafter, actual data transmission / reception is performed, and the link is released when the data transmission / reception is completed. To release the link, a release request signal for releasing the link is output to the host computer 28, and an answer signal from the host computer 28 is waited for. When the answer signal is received, the link is released.

  When the second image processing unit 112 stores the image data in the image transmission buffer 110, the maximum transmission capacity calculation unit 114 starts the EOD from the head address where the current image data is stored in the image transmission buffer 110. The number of bits or bytes up to (End of Data) is calculated to obtain the maximum transmission capacity value. The EOD is a code added to the final address of the image data by the second image processing unit 112. The calculated maximum transmission capacity value is stored in a register of the CPU, for example.

  The capacity value transmission unit 116 reads the maximum transmission capacity value stored in the register and transmits it to the host computer 28 via the data communication unit 106 when the calculation in the maximum transmission capacity calculation unit 114 is completed.

  The image transmission unit 118 transmits the image data stored in the image transmission buffer 110 to the host computer 28 via the data communication unit 106. In the transmission of the image data, for example, a packet communication method is preferably employed. In this case, the image data is separated into fixed lengths (fixed data amount) and stored in packets (first method), or the image data is separated into variable lengths (variable data amount) and packetized. A storing method (second method) or the like can be employed. When the second method is adopted, the data amount information of the image data stored in the packet may be included in the header of the packet, or EOD (end of data) is included in the final part of the image data stored in the packet. ) May be stored.

  The light emission control unit 120 controls the light emitting element 104 to emit light during the period in which the image transmission unit 118 transmits image data. Specifically, prior to the transmission of the image data from the image transmission unit 118, the light emitting element 104 emits light based on the output of the communication request signal supplied from the image transmission unit 118 to the data communication unit 106, and the image data The light emitting element 104 is extinguished based on the output of the communication completion signal supplied from the data communication unit 106 to the image transmission unit 118 after the transmission of.

  On the other hand, in addition to the above-described management unit and the like, the host computer 28 displays, as shown in FIG. 7, an indicator whose upper limit is the maximum transmission capacity value received from the cassette 24 received via the second transceiver 82. The first indicator display control unit 122 that controls to display the image data on the display unit 98, and the amount of image data (reception capacity value) received by the second transceiver 82 during the period in which the image data is received. A reception capacity calculation unit 124 to calculate, and a first bar display that controls the display device 26 to display a bar image that extends toward the displayed index and has a length corresponding to the reception capacity value of the image data. And a control unit 126.

  In addition, the host computer 28 outputs a photographing end signal to the cassette 24 when the photographing by the photographing device 22 is finished, or transmits the inputted photographing conditions to the cassette 24 and the photographing device 22. Further, the image number input via the console 27 is transmitted to the cassette 24. The photographing conditions and the image number transmitted from the host computer 28 are input to the cassette 24 as transmission request information.

  On the other hand, as an index displayed on the display unit 98 of the display device 26 by the first index display control unit 122, for example, a frame image 128 is given as shown in FIG. In this case, the first index display control unit 122 outputs, for example, a frame image 128 created in advance to the display device 26 together with coordinate data indicating a display location. The display device 26 displays the frame image 128 at the position indicated by the coordinate data on the display screen of the display unit 98. Then, the first bar display control unit 126 displays a bar image 130 having, for example, the left end 128a in the frame of the frame image 128 as a start end and the right end 128b in the frame as an end.

  The reception capacity calculation unit 124 calculates the data amount of the image data received via the second transceiver 82. For example, when the packet communication method is employed, the data amount of the image data included in the received packet is constant. If so, the reception capacity value up to now can be obtained by calculating the number of received packets × a certain amount of data (number of bits or number of bytes). If the data amount of the image data included in the packet is variable, the image data in one packet is calculated by calculating the data amount from the head of the image data in the packet to the code indicating EOD (end of data). Can be obtained. Then, this calculation is performed every time a packet is received and accumulated, whereby the reception capacity value up to now can be obtained. In addition, when the data amount information of the image data stored in the packet is included in the packet header, the data amount information included in each packet is accumulated every time the packet is received, so that the reception capacity up to the present time A value can be obtained. The reception capacity value up to now is stored in a register of the CPU in the host computer 28.

  The first bar display control unit 126 obtains the ratio of the reception capacity value up to the present to the maximum transmission capacity value from the cassette 24, creates a bar image 130 corresponding to the ratio in the frame of the frame image 128, and coordinates The data is output to the display device 26 together with the data. As a result, the bar image 130 having a length corresponding to the reception capacity value up to now is displayed in the frame of the frame image 128 on the display unit 98 of the display device 26. As the time elapses, the reception capacity value of the image data from the cassette 24 increases, so that the bar image 130 extends toward the end in the frame.

  Here, the operation of the imaging system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  The imaging system 10 is installed in the operating room 12, and is used, for example, when a radiographic image needs to be captured during surgery of the patient 14 by the doctor 18. Therefore, the patient information of the patient 14 to be imaged is registered in advance in the patient information management unit 90 of the host computer 28 prior to imaging. In addition, when the imaging region and the imaging method are determined in advance, these imaging conditions are registered in the imaging condition management unit 84 in advance. In the state where the above preparatory work is completed, the operation for the patient 14 is performed.

  When radiographing is performed during surgery, the doctor 18 or the radiographer in charge installs the cassette 24 at a predetermined position between the patient 14 and the operating table 16 with the irradiation surface 36 facing the imaging device 22 side. To do. Next, after moving the photographing device 22 to a position facing the cassette 24, the photographing switch 74 is operated to perform photographing.

  The radiation source control unit 80 of the imaging apparatus 22 controls the radiation source 76 according to the imaging conditions related to the imaging region of the patient 14 received via the first transmitter / receiver 78, thereby causing the patient to receive the radiation X having a predetermined dose. 14 is irradiated.

  The radiation X transmitted through the patient 14 is irradiated with the radiation detector 40 after the scattered radiation is removed by the grid 38 of the cassette 24, and is converted into an electric signal by the photoelectric conversion layer 51 of each pixel 50 constituting the radiation detector 40. It is converted and held as a charge in the storage capacitor 53 (see FIG. 3). Next, the charge information that is the radiographic image information of the patient 14 held in each storage capacitor 53 is read according to the address signal supplied from the imaging data acquisition unit 108 of the cassette control unit 46 to the line scanning drive unit 58 and the multiplexer 66. .

  That is, the row address decoder 60 of the line scan driving unit 58 outputs a selection signal according to the address signal supplied from the imaging data acquisition unit 108, selects one first switch SW1, and is connected to the corresponding gate line 54. A control signal Von is supplied to the gate of the TFT 52. On the other hand, the column address decoder 68 of the multiplexer 66 outputs a selection signal in accordance with the address signal supplied from the imaging data acquisition unit 108 and sequentially switches the second switch SW2 to the gate line 54 selected by the line scan driving unit 58. Radiation image information, which is charge information held in the storage capacitor 53 of each connected pixel 50, is sequentially read out via the signal line 56.

  The radiation image information (imaging data) read from the storage capacitor 53 of each pixel 50 connected to the selected gate line 54 of the radiation detector 40 is amplified by each amplifier 62 and then each sample and hold circuit 64. Is supplied to the A / D converter 70 via the multiplexer 66 and converted into a digital signal. The radiographic image information converted into the digital signal is temporarily stored in the image memory 102 of the cassette control unit 46.

  Similarly, the row address decoder 60 of the line scan drive unit 58 sequentially switches the switch SW1 according to the address signal supplied from the imaging data acquisition unit 108, and the storage capacitor 53 of each pixel 50 connected to each gate line 54. The radiographic image information (imaging data) which is the charge information held in is stored in the image memory 102 of the cassette control unit 46 via the multiplexer 66 and the A / D converter 70.

  Then, based on the reception of the photographing end signal output from the host computer 28, the second image processing unit 112 reads the latest imaging data captured in the image memory 102, performs necessary image processing, and performs image data processing. And stored in the image transmission buffer 110.

  The maximum transmission capacity calculation unit 114 calculates the capacity value (maximum transmission capacity value) of the image data and stores it in the register when the image data is stored in the image transmission buffer 110 by the second image processing unit 112.

  Next, the capacity value transmission unit 116 reads the maximum transmission capacity value stored in the register and transmits it to the host computer 28 via the data communication unit 106 when the calculation in the maximum transmission capacity calculation unit 114 is completed. .

  Thereafter, the image transmission unit 118 transmits the image data stored in the image transmission buffer 110 to the host computer 28 via the data communication unit 106.

  During the transmission of the image data, the light emitting element 104 installed on one side surface 34 a of the cassette 24 emits light under the control of the light emission control unit 120. Therefore, the doctor or the radiologist in charge can recognize at a glance that the image data is being transmitted by seeing that the light emitting element 104 of the cassette 24 emits light.

  On the other hand, the first index display control unit 122 of the host computer 28 performs control so that the frame image 128 is displayed on the display device 26 based on the maximum transmission capacity value transmitted prior to transmission of the image data.

  In the subsequent process of receiving image data sent, the reception capacity calculation unit 124 calculates the reception capacity value of the image data, and the first bar display control unit 126 sets the ratio of the reception capacity value to the maximum transmission capacity value. Control is performed so that the bar image 130 having a corresponding length is displayed on the display device 26.

  Therefore, the doctor or the radiologist in charge can recognize the communication state of the image data at a glance by looking at the bar display displayed on the display unit 98 of the display device 26. This is effective when the light emitting state of the light emitting element 104 of the cassette 24 is difficult to see, and has the advantage that the communication progress of image data can be easily grasped by the length of the bar image 130.

  Prior to the transmission of the image data, the maximum transmission capacity value of the image data is sent as text data from the cassette 24. Therefore, when the first bar display control unit 126 creates the bar image 130, the maximum transmission capacity value is set. It is possible to accurately determine the ratio of the current reception capacity value with respect to, and to accurately display the progress of transmission of image data transmitted thereafter. As a result, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the display of the bar image 130 does not reach the end but ends halfway despite the complete transmission of the image data. The communication progress can be grasped.

  When the reception of the image data is completed, the image data is subjected to predetermined image processing in the first image processing unit 86 and then associated with the patient information of the patient 14 registered in the patient information management unit 90. Stored in the image memory 88.

  Further, the image data subjected to the image processing is transmitted from the second transmitter / receiver 82 to the display device 26. The display device 26 that has received the image data by the receiver 94 controls the display unit 98 by the display control unit 96 to display a radiation image. The doctor 18 performs the operation while confirming the radiation image displayed on the display unit 98.

  In this case, cables for transmitting and receiving signals are connected between the cassette 24 and the host computer 28, between the photographing device 22 and the host computer 28, and between the host computer 28 and the display device 26. Therefore, for example, these cables are not arranged on the floor surface of the operating room 12, and there is no possibility of hindering the work of the doctor 18 or the like.

  As described above, in the imaging system 10 according to the present embodiment, whether or not the transmission of the image data from the cassette 24 to the host computer 28 is halfway or completed, the light emission state of the light emitting element 104 of the cassette 24 and the display device. 26, the battery pack 45 can be removed from the cassette 24 during the transmission of the image data, or the operator operating the host computer 28 can Inconveniences such as starting processing are less likely to occur.

  In the above example, the example in which the light emitting element 104 is installed in the cassette 24 has been shown. In addition to the light emitting element 104, for example, a liquid crystal display unit 132 is provided on one side surface 34a of the cassette 24 as shown in FIG. You may make it provide. In this case, as shown in FIG. 10, the cassette control unit 46 performs control so that an index with the maximum transmission capacity value calculated by the maximum transmission capacity calculation unit 114 as an upper limit is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 132. The index display control unit 134, the transmission capacity calculation unit 136 that calculates the data amount (transmission capacity value) of the image data transmitted by the image transmission unit 118 during the period in which the image data is transmitted, and the displayed index And a second bar display control unit 138 that controls to display on the liquid crystal display unit 132 a bar image having a length corresponding to the transmission capacity value of the image data.

  An example of the index displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 132 by the second index display control unit 134 is a frame image 140 as shown in FIG. In this case, the second index display control unit 134 outputs, for example, a frame image 140 created in advance to the liquid crystal display unit 132 together with coordinate data indicating a display location. The liquid crystal display unit 132 displays the frame image 140 at the position indicated by the coordinate data on the display screen. Then, the second bar display control unit 138 displays a bar image starting at, for example, the left end 140a in the frame of the frame image 140 and ending at the right end 140b in the frame.

  The transmission capacity calculation unit 136 calculates the data amount of the image data to be transmitted. For example, when the packet communication method is adopted, if the data amount of the image data included in the received packet is constant, the number of received packets × By calculating a certain amount of data (number of bits or number of bytes), the transmission capacity value up to now can be obtained. If the data amount of the image data included in the packet is variable, the image data in one packet is calculated by calculating the data amount from the head of the image data in the packet to the code indicating EOD (end of data). Can be obtained. Then, this calculation is performed each time a packet is transmitted and accumulated, whereby the transmission capacity value up to the present can be obtained. In addition, when the data amount information of the image data stored in the packet is included in the packet header, the transmission capacity up to the present is obtained by accumulating the data amount information included in each packet every time the packet is transmitted. A value can be obtained. The transmission capacity value up to now is stored in, for example, a CPU register.

  The second bar display control unit 138 obtains the ratio of the transmission capacity value up to the present to the maximum transmission capacity value from the cassette 24, creates a bar image 142 corresponding to the ratio in the frame of the frame image 140, and coordinates The data is output to the liquid crystal display 132 together with the data. As a result, a bar image 142 having a length corresponding to the transmission capacity value up to now is displayed in the frame of the frame image 140 on the liquid crystal display unit 132. As the time elapses, the transmission capacity value of the image data from the cassette 24 increases, so that the bar image 142 extends toward the end in the frame.

  As described above, by providing the liquid crystal display unit 132 in the cassette 24 and performing bar display according to the transmission capacity value, an operator or the like who handles the cassette 24 returns the cassette 24 after photographing to the shelf or the like. By observing the light emission of the light emitting element 104, it is recognized that the image data is in the middle of transmission, which makes it difficult for the battery pack 45 to be removed from the cassette 24 and the bar of the liquid crystal display unit 132. By viewing the display, the transmission progress of the image data can be easily grasped.

  Next, a preferable aspect of the imaging system 10 of the present embodiment, particularly the cassette 24 will be described.

  That is, it is preferable to provide a communication maintaining means for maintaining the transmission of the image data in the casing 34 of the cassette 24 at least during a period during which the image data is transmitted.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in the case where the casing 34 has the battery pack 45 as shown in FIG. 12, the communication maintaining means makes it impossible to remove the battery pack 45 from the casing 34 only during a period during which image data is transmitted. One lock mechanism 144 is provided.

  The first lock mechanism 144 is attached to the bottom plate 147 of the casing 34, for example, and rotates around the shaft 149, for example, a rectangular, semicircular, polygonal stopper plate 150, and the stopper plate 150 in two directions (battery The first drive mechanism 152 (solenoid or motor) can be configured to rotate in a first direction in which a part of the pack 45 is pressed and a second direction in which the pressure on the battery pack 45 is released. Here, the first direction is preferably a direction in which the movement of the battery pack 45 can be prevented. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, when the battery pack 45 is moved in the lateral direction and the battery pack is removed, a part of the battery pack 45 is pressed by the stopper plate 150, thereby moving the battery pack 45 in the lateral direction. It is preferable to prevent the movement. The second direction is preferably a direction in which the pressure on the battery pack 45 is released so that the movement of the battery pack 45 in the lateral direction can be performed smoothly.

  When the first drive mechanism 152 is configured by a solenoid (not shown), for example, a leaf spring (not shown) is attached to the stopper plate 150, and the stopper plate 150 is always pressed in the second direction (pressing the battery pack 45). And at least during the transmission of the image data, the solenoid is excited to rotate the stopper plate 150 against the bias of the leaf spring, and a part of the battery pack 45 is energized. It is possible to press. When the first drive mechanism 152 is configured by a motor (not shown), the shaft 149 is rotated forward by the motor, so that the stopper plate 150 is rotationally driven in the second direction, and the shaft 149 is rotated reversely by the motor. Thus, it is conceivable to rotationally drive the stopper plate 150 in the first direction.

  And the cassette control part 46 has the stopper drive control part 154, as shown in FIG. In FIG. 13, description of the image transmission buffer 110 (see FIG. 6) and the like is omitted.

  Prior to the transmission of the image data from the image transmission unit 118, the stopper drive control unit 154 moves the first stopper plate 150 to the first position based on the output of the communication request signal supplied from the image transmission unit 118 to the data communication unit 106. Based on the output of the communication completion signal supplied from the data communication unit 106 to the image transmission unit 118 after the transmission of the image data is completed. Then, the stopper plate 150 is controlled to rotate in the second direction (the direction in which the pressure on the battery pack 45 is released).

  As a result, the battery pack 45 cannot be removed at least during the transmission of the image data. Therefore, there is no inconvenience that the battery pack 45 is removed from the cassette 24 during the transmission of the image data.

  Another example of the communication maintaining means is applied when a cable is connected to the cassette 24. In the above-described example, power is supplied to various devices accommodated in the cassette 24 through the battery 44 (the battery 44 accommodated in the battery pack 45) accommodated in the cassette 24. In some cases, power is supplied via a cable. In addition, a battery may be used for power supply, and communication with the host computer 28 may be performed using a communication cable.

  As described above, various cables may be connected to the cassette 24. In such a case, it is preferable to prevent the cables from being removed during the transmission of the image data.

  Accordingly, another example of the communication maintaining means is as shown in FIG. 14, in which the cable 156 is inserted at least during a period in which image data is transmitted with the plug 158 of the cable 156 inserted into the connector 160 of the cassette 24. A second locking mechanism 162 that disables removal from the cassette 24 is provided.

  The second locking mechanism 162 is attached in the vicinity of the connector 160 and rotates, for example, a wedge-shaped hook 166 about the shaft 164, and the hook 166 is locked in two directions (a first hole 168 provided in the plug 158). The second drive mechanism 170 (solenoid or motor) can be configured to rotate in one direction and in a second direction in which the engagement with the hole 168 provided in the tip portion of the plug 158 is released. Since the hook 166 is locked in the hole 168 of the plug 158, the cable 156 cannot be easily detached from the cassette 24.

  When the second drive mechanism 170 is constituted by a solenoid (not shown), for example, a leaf spring (not shown) is attached to the hook 166, and the hook 166 is always provided in the second direction (the plug 158 is provided). The hook 166 is energized in the direction in which the engagement with the hole 168 is released, and at least during the transmission of the image data, the solenoid is energized to rotationally drive the hook 166 against the urging of the leaf spring. Can be locked in the hole 168 of the plug 158. When the second drive mechanism 170 is configured by a motor (not shown), the shaft 164 is rotated forward by the motor to rotate the hook 166 in the second direction, and the shaft 164 is rotated reversely by the motor. The hook 166 can be driven to rotate in the first direction.

  And the cassette control part 46 has the hook drive control part 172, as shown in FIG. In FIG. 15, description of the image transmission buffer 110 (see FIG. 6) and the like is omitted.

  Prior to transmission of image data from the image transmission unit 118, the hook drive control unit 172 causes the hook 166 to move in the first direction based on the output of the communication request signal supplied from the image transmission unit 118 to the data communication unit 106. Control is performed so as to drive the rotation in the direction of engagement with the hole 168 provided in the plug 158, and output of a communication completion signal supplied from the data communication unit 106 to the image transmission unit 118 after transmission of the image data is completed. Based on the above, the hook 166 is controlled to rotate in the second direction (the direction in which the engagement with the hole 168 provided in the plug 158 is released).

  As a result, the cable 156 cannot be removed at least during the transmission of the image data, so that there is no inconvenience that the cable 156 is disconnected from the cassette 24 during the transmission of the image data.

  Note that the radiation detection cassette and the medical system according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention.

  For example, the radiation detector 40 accommodated in the cassette 24 directly converts the dose of the incident radiation X into an electrical signal by the photoelectric conversion layer 51. Instead of this, the incident radiation X is temporarily converted by the scintillator. After conversion into visible light, a radiation detector configured to convert the visible light into an electrical signal using a solid-state detection element such as amorphous silicon (a-Si) may be used (see Japanese Patent No. 3494683). ).

  Also, radiation image information can be obtained using a light conversion type radiation detector. In this light conversion type radiation detector, when radiation is incident on each solid detection element arranged in a matrix, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the dose is accumulated and recorded in the solid detection element. When reading the electrostatic latent image, the radiation detector is irradiated with reading light, and the value of the generated current is acquired as radiation image information. The radiation detector can erase and reuse the radiation image information that is the remaining electrostatic latent image by irradiating the radiation detector with erasing light (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-105297). .

  When the cassette 24 is used in the operating room 12 or the like, there is a risk that blood or other germs may adhere. Therefore, one cassette 24 can be repeatedly used by making the cassette 24 have a waterproof and airtight structure and sterilizing and cleaning as necessary.

  The cassette 24 is not limited to being used in the operating room 12, and can be applied to, for example, medical examinations and rounds in hospitals.

  Further, the wireless communication between the cassette 24 and the external device may be performed by optical wireless communication using infrared rays or the like instead of normal communication using radio waves.

  It is more preferable to configure the cassette 500 as shown in FIG.

  That is, the guide line 504 serving as a reference for the imaging region and the imaging position is formed on the cassette 500 on the radiation irradiation surface side of the casing 502. By using the guide line 504 to position the subject 14 with respect to the cassette 500 and setting the radiation X irradiation range, the radiographic image information can be recorded in an appropriate imaging region.

  A display unit 506 that displays various types of information related to the cassette 500 is disposed outside the imaging region of the cassette 500. The display unit 506 includes the ID information of the subject 14 recorded in the cassette 500, the number of uses of the cassette 500, the cumulative exposure dose, the state of charge (remaining capacity) of the battery 44 built in the cassette 500, and radiation image information. Shooting conditions, a positioning image of the subject 14 with respect to the cassette 500, and the like are displayed. In this case, for example, the engineer confirms the subject 14 according to the ID information displayed on the display unit 506, confirms in advance that the cassette 500 is in a usable state, and based on the displayed positioning image. The desired radiographic image information of the subject 14 can be positioned on the cassette 500, and optimal radiographic image information can be captured.

  In addition, by forming the handle portion 508 in the cassette 500, the cassette 500 can be easily handled and carried.

  An AC adapter input terminal 510, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal 512, and a card slot 516 for loading a memory card 514 are preferably provided on the side of the cassette 500.

  The input terminal 510 is connected to an AC adapter when the charging function of the battery 44 built in the cassette 500 is deteriorated or when sufficient time for charging the battery 44 cannot be secured. By supplying this, the cassette 500 can be immediately used.

  The USB terminal 512 or the card slot 516 can be used when the cassette 500 cannot exchange information with an external device such as the host computer 28 by wireless communication. In other words, by connecting a cable to the USB terminal 512, information can be transmitted / received to / from an external device by wired communication. In addition, information can be transmitted and received by loading a memory card 514 into the card slot 516, recording necessary information on the memory card 514, and then removing the memory card 514 and loading it into an external device.

  As shown in FIG. 17, it is preferable to place a cradle 518 that is loaded with a cassette 24 and charges a built-in battery 44 at a required location in the operating room 12 or hospital. In this case, the cradle 518 transmits and receives necessary information to and from external devices such as the HIS 148, the RIS 146, and the host computer 28 by using not only the charging of the battery 44 but also the wireless communication function or the wired communication function of the cradle 518. You may make it perform. The information to be transmitted and received can include radiation image information recorded in the cassette 24 loaded in the cradle 518.

  In addition, a display unit 520 is provided in the cradle 518 so that necessary information including the charged state of the loaded cassette 24 and the radiation image information acquired from the cassette 24 is displayed on the display unit 520. May be.

  Further, a plurality of cradle 518 is connected to a network, and the charging state of the cassette 24 loaded in each cradle 518 is collected via the network so that the location of the cassette 24 in a usable charging state can be confirmed. You can also

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Imaging system 12 ... Operating room 14 ... Patient 18 ... Doctor 22 ... Imaging apparatus 24,500 ... Cassette 26 ... Display device 28 ... Host computer 34 ... Casing 40 ... Radiation detector 44 ... Battery 45 ... Battery pack 46 ... Cassette control Unit 48 ... Communicator 50 ... Pixel 76 ... Radiation source 78 ... First transmitter / receiver 80 ... Line source control unit 82 ... Second transmitter / receiver 86 ... First image processing unit 94 ... Receiver 98 ... Display unit 102 ... Image memory 106: Data communication unit 108 ... Image data acquisition unit 110 ... Image transmission buffer 112 ... Second image processing unit 114 ... Maximum transmission capacity calculation unit 116 ... Capacity value transmission unit 118 ... Image transmission unit 120 ... Light emission control unit 122 ... First 1 index display control unit 124 ... reception capacity calculation unit 126 ... first bar display control unit 132 ... liquid crystal display unit 134 ... second index display control 136: Transmission capacity calculation unit 138: Second bar display control unit 144: First lock mechanism 150 ... Stopper plate 152 ... First drive mechanism 154 ... Stopper drive control unit 156 ... Cable 158 ... Plug 160 ... Connector 162 ... Second lock Mechanism 166 ... Hook 170 ... Second drive mechanism 172 ... Hook drive control unit 518 ... Cradle

The present invention detects radiation that has passed through the subject, a medical system using the radiation detection cassette tape having a radiation conversion panel for converting a radiation image information.

The present invention has been made in consideration of such problems, and by providing means for displaying the communication state of image data or means for maintaining the communication state, the image data is reliably transmitted to the host computer. it can, reliability of radiation detecting cassette of the communication, and an object thereof is to provide a medical system that can be improved in reliability of the medical system.

A medical system according to the present invention includes a radiation conversion panel that is contained in a casing and detects radiation transmitted through a subject and converts the radiation into radiation image information, and a memory that stores radiation image information detected by the radiation conversion panel. A radiation detection cassette having at least communication means for transmitting the radiation image information to the outside, and a cassette control unit;
An imaging device that emits radiation toward the subject;
A host computer for exchanging information with the cassette to control the imaging device;
In a medical system having a display device for displaying information from the host computer,
Prior to the transmission of the radiation image information, the cassette control unit includes a capacitance value transmission unit that transmits a capacitance value of the radiation image information to the host computer, and an image information transmission unit that transmits the radiation image information. Have
The host computer is configured to display on the display device an indicator having an upper limit on the capacitance value from the received radiation detection cassette, and in the period when the radiation image information is received, the indicator And a means for controlling to display a bar image having a length corresponding to the reception capacity value of the radiation image information.

As described above, according to the engagement Ru medical care system according to the present invention, it is possible to reliably perform transmission of image data to the host computer, the reliability of the radiation detecting cassette of the communication, improve the reliability of the medical system Can be achieved.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the embodiment of the engagement Ru medical care system according to the present invention is applied to a radiation image capturing system will be described with reference to FIGS. 1-17.

Incidentally, engagement Ru medical care system in the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments without departing from the gist of the present invention, it is should be understood that various configurations.

Claims (11)

A radiation conversion panel that is contained in a casing and detects radiation that has passed through a subject and converts the radiation into radiation image information, a memory that stores radiation image information detected by the radiation conversion panel, and at least the radiation image information externally In a radiation detection cassette having a communication means for transmitting to a control unit,
The radiation detection cassette according to claim 1, further comprising a communication maintaining unit configured to maintain transmission of the radiation image information at least during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication unit. The radiation detection cassette according to claim 1,
A battery pack in the casing;
The communication maintaining means includes a lock mechanism that disables removal of the battery pack from the casing only during a period when the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication means. . The radiation detection cassette according to claim 1,
A connector having a cable connected to the casing;
The radiation maintaining cassette, wherein the communication maintaining means includes a lock mechanism that makes it impossible to remove the cable from the connector only during a period when the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication means. In the radiation detection cassette according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
A light emitting element on the surface of the casing;
The radiation detection cassette according to claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a light emission control unit configured to control the light emitting element to emit light during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication unit. In the radiation detection cassette according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Having a display on the surface of the casing;
The control unit includes a communication display unit that controls the display unit to perform display indicating the transmission during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication unit. . A radiation conversion panel that is contained in a casing and detects radiation that has passed through a subject and converts the radiation into radiation image information, a memory that stores radiation image information detected by the radiation conversion panel, and at least the radiation image information externally A radiation detection cassette having a communication means for transmitting to the cassette control unit,
An imaging device that emits radiation toward the subject;
A host computer for exchanging information with the cassette to control the imaging device;
In a medical system having a display device for displaying information from the host computer,
Prior to the transmission of the radiation image information, the cassette control unit includes a capacitance value transmission unit that transmits a capacitance value of the radiation image information to the host computer, and an image information transmission unit that transmits the radiation image information. Have
The host computer is configured to display on the display device an indicator having an upper limit on the capacitance value from the received radiation detection cassette, and in the period when the radiation image information is received, the indicator And a means for controlling to display a bar image having a length corresponding to the reception capacity value of the radiation image information. The medical system according to claim 6, wherein
The radiation detection cassette is
A medical system comprising: a communication maintaining unit that is accommodated in the casing and maintains transmission of the radiation image information at least during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication unit. The medical system according to claim 7, wherein
The radiation detection cassette is
A battery pack in the casing;
The communication maintaining means includes a lock mechanism that disables removal of the battery pack from the casing only during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication means. The medical system according to claim 7, wherein
The radiation detection cassette is
A connector having a cable connected to the casing;
The communication maintaining means includes a lock mechanism that disables removal of the cable from the connector only during a period in which the radiographic image information is transmitted by the communication means. The medical system according to any one of claims 6 to 9,
The radiation detection cassette is
A light emitting element on the surface of the casing;
The cassette control unit includes a light emission control unit that controls the light emitting element to emit light during a period in which the radiographic image information is transmitted by the communication unit. The medical system according to any one of claims 6 to 10,
The radiation detection cassette is
Having a display on the surface of the casing;
The cassette control unit includes a communication display unit that controls the display unit to perform display indicating the transmission during a period in which the radiation image information is transmitted by the communication unit. .

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