阅读说明：本技术 用于记录扩展的x射线记录的方法 (Method for recording extended X-ray recordings ) 是由 玛格达莱娜·赫布斯特 路德维希·里奇尔 马克·科蒂阿蒂 克里斯托弗·卢克纳 胡奇 马塞尔· 于 2021-03-30 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种用于借助于X射线系统来记录检查对象的检查区域的X射线记录的方法,X射线系统包括：设置在辐射器移位单元上的X射线源以及设置在探测器移位单元上的具有探测面的X射线探测器,方法具有如下步骤：选择检查区域；关于检查区域逐段地记录相继的记录部段,并且在此i.沿着共同的记录方向移动X射线源和X射线探测器,ii.对于记录部段,在探测面内确定条带状探测区域,iii.使得与借助于平行于X射线探测器的边缘的预确定的条带状探测区域记录的与X射线记录不同的另一X射线记录相比,扩展X射线记录的延展,iv.借助于所确定的探测区域和X射线源来检测记录部段；从记录部段中产生检查区域的组合X射线记录。(The invention relates to a method for the X-ray recording of an examination region of an examination object by means of an X-ray system, which comprises: an X-ray source arranged on the emitter displacement unit and an X-ray detector with a detection surface arranged on the detector displacement unit, the method comprises the following steps: selecting an examination region; recording successive recording sections segment by segment with respect to an examination region and here i.moving the X-ray source and the X-ray detector along a common recording direction, ii.determining a strip-shaped detection region within a detection plane for the recording sections, iii.extending the extension of the X-ray recording compared to another X-ray recording different from the X-ray recording recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to an edge of the X-ray detector, iv. detecting the recording sections by means of the determined detection region and the X-ray source; a combined X-ray recording of the examination area is generated from the recording sections.)

1. Method (V) for X-ray recording (18) of an examination region of an examination object (38) by means of an X-ray system (30), which comprises: an X-ray source (32) arranged on the emitter displacement unit (31) and an X-ray detector (35) with a detection area (10) arranged on the detector displacement unit (34), the method having the following steps:

-selecting (S1) the examination region,

-recording (S2) successive recording sections segment by segment with respect to the examination area, and here

i. Moving (S3) the X-ray source and the X-ray detector along a common recording direction (20),

determining (S4) a strip-like detection area (11) within the detection face (10) for the recording section

Extending an extension (17, 17') of the X-ray recording (18) compared to a further X-ray recording (19) different from the X-ray recording (18) recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region (12) parallel to an edge of the X-ray detector,

detecting (S5) a recording section by means of the determined detection region and the X-ray source,

-generating (S6) a combined X-ray recording of the examination region from the recording sections.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in the step of determining, the detection area is shifted in the recording direction within the detection plane compared to a previous detection area of a previously recorded section.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein in the moving step, a detector moving speed of the X-ray detector is lower than an irradiator moving speed of the X-ray source.

4. Method of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein an extension (17) of the X-ray recording along the recording direction is greater than a maximum distance (16) between a detector center (15) in a starting position (P1) of the X-ray detector and a detector center (15') in an ending position (Pn) of the X-ray detector.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the irradiation time and/or the irradiation amount are substantially evenly distributed over the detection area.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein in the step of determining, the detection area (11) is formed along a diagonal of the detection face (10).

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein the extension (17') of the X-ray recording (18) perpendicular to the recording direction is larger than a detector width (13) of the X-ray detector.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, in the step of recording segment by segment:

-for a first recording section, determining a first detection region along a diagonal of the detection plane, and

for a second recording section, a second detection region is determined parallel to an edge of the X-ray detector arranged perpendicular to the recording direction.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein further in the step of recording segment by segment:

-for a third recording section, a third detection zone is displaced in the recording direction within the detection plane compared to the second detection zone.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein, in the step of recording segment by segment:

for a first recording section, a first detection region is determined parallel to an edge of the X-ray detector arranged perpendicular to the recording direction, and

-for a second recording section, displacing a second detection area in the recording direction within the detection plane compared to the first detection area.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein further in the step of recording segment by segment:

-determining a third detection zone along a diagonal of the detection plane for a third recording section.

12. A medical X-ray system for performing the method of any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising:

an X-ray source arranged on the emitter displacement unit and an X-ray detector with a detection area arranged on the detector displacement unit,

a selection unit (41) for selecting (S1) the examination region,

a recording unit (42) for recording (S2) successive recording sections step by step,

a control unit (43) for moving (S3) the X-ray source and the X-ray detector along a recording direction,

-a determining unit (44) for determining (S4) a strip-shaped detection region in the detection plane for a recording section, an

-a generating unit (45) for generating (S5) a combined X-ray recording from the recording sections.

13. Medical X-ray system according to claim 12, wherein the X-ray detector comprises a rotatable support mechanism and/or a variable strip-like detection area.

14. A computer program product with a computer program which can be loaded directly into a memory means of a control device of an X-ray system, having program segments for performing all the steps of the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 when the computer program is run in the control device of the X-ray system.

15. A computer readable medium having stored thereon program segments readable and executable by a computing unit for performing all the steps of the method according to any of the claims 1 to 11 when the program segments are run by the X-ray system.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a method for recording an X-ray recording, wherein the X-ray recording consists of strip-shaped recording sections. To this end, the invention also relates to a medical X-ray system.

Background

In the case of X-ray recording, so-called slit exposure acquisition (Slotscan), which consists of a plurality of strip-shaped recording sections, the image field is limited in terms of the width of the X-ray recording or image by the detector size and in terms of the height of the X-ray recording or image by the travel range. For example, in the case of a robotic radiography system, the detector support or detector displacement unit may have a limited range of travel.

Such X-ray recordings are described, for example, by Luckner, Christoph et al, "Parallel-shift tomosynthesis for orthogonal applications", Medical Imaging 2018: physics of Medical Imaging, volume 10573, International Society for Optics and Photonics, 2018; and "firmware full-body xray images" Bildverarbeitung fur die Medizin 2018.Springer Vieweg, Berlin, Heidelberg, 2018.86-91 by Luckner, Christoph et al.

The inventors have recognized the problem that the width and/or height of the X-ray recording or examination region may not be sufficient for the examination to be performed. For example, in some cases, the width of the X-ray recording may not be sufficient to image the entire hip. In particular, robotic radiography systems have a detector width of, for example, approximately 42cm, which results in an image width in the object of approximately 33.4cm in the case of an X-ray focus-X-ray detector distance of, for example, 132cm and an X-ray focus-examination object distance of, for example, 105 cm. This is not sufficient for some applications or for some examinations. Furthermore, it is desirable that the height of the X-ray recordings can be as large as possible in order to be able to carry out whole-body recordings of large examination objects or patients.

The inventors have also recognized that in the case of X-ray recording, so-called slit exposure acquisition, consisting of a plurality of strip-shaped recording sections, only a small, constant region of the detection area of the detector, i.e. for example about 5cm of the detection region height, is permanently used in the scanning direction or recording direction. If a plurality of such X-ray recordings are recorded one after the other, a so-called Brightburn effect may occur. In this case, the detection region used at the time of recording is burnt as it were, and is visible as a shadow when, in particular, an X-ray recording different therefrom is subsequently recorded using the entire detection region.

For conventional X-ray recordings, the detector surface can generally be used to the greatest extent by keeping the magnification as small as possible, i.e. a small distance between the examination object and the X-ray detector and a large distance between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are selected.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the invention to specify a method and a medical X-ray system for recording an X-ray recording of an examination area, as well as a computer program product and a computer-readable medium, which enable an enlargement of the X-ray recording or of the examination area.

According to the invention, the object is achieved by a method according to the invention for recording an X-ray recording of an examination region, a medical X-ray system according to the invention, a computer program product according to the invention and a computer-readable medium according to the invention.

The invention relates to a method for recording, in particular two-dimensional, X-ray recordings of an examination region of an examination object by means of an X-ray system comprising an X-ray source arranged on an emitter displacement unit and an X-ray detector with a detection area arranged on a detector displacement unit. The X-ray source may in particular emit X-ray radiation towards the X-ray detector. The examination object is arranged between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector.

The X-ray system may be a radiography system, a fluoroscopy system or a urography system comprising at least one emitter displacement unit and at least one detector displacement unit. The X-ray system may preferably be a robotic radiography system comprising an emitter support as the emitter displacement unit and a detector support as the detector displacement unit. The emitter mount and/or the detector mount can in particular be suspended from the ceiling, i.e. fastened to the ceiling of a room. The detector displacement unit may alternatively be designed in the examination table such that the X-ray detector can be displaced substantially parallel to the table plane within or below the examination table.

The method has the steps of selecting, recording segment by segment, and generating.

In the step of selecting, an examination region is selected. The selection can be effected, for example, manually by means of a user interface, in particular by a user. Alternatively or additionally, the selection may be effected automatically. For example, as a basis for the selection, a camera image of the examination object or a light field projected onto the examination object may be used for manual and/or automatic selection.

In the step of recording segment by segment, successive recording segments are recorded with respect to the examination area. The entirety of the recording section includes an examination region. Successive recording sections are recorded to record the selected examination area. The successive recording sections can in particular be successive in time and space. The X-ray recording can image an examination object which does not substantially move or, in general, in the case of X-ray recording, dynamic changes in the examination object are not examined. Adjacent recording sections may particularly at least partially overlap. The examination region is in particular subdivided or divided into recording sections.

The step of recording segment by segment here comprises the steps of moving, determining and detecting. Thereby, the examination area can be recorded substantially completely segment by segment. One segment data group is generated for each recording segment. The step of recording segment by segment may especially comprise the steps of performing the moving, determining and detecting for recording or detecting the recorded segment, respectively. In particular, a repeating cycle with the following steps can be proposed: the strip-shaped detection region is moved, determined and adjusted there, and the recording section is subsequently detected.

Here, the first sequence may include steps in the following order: moving, determining, and detecting. Alternatively, the second sequence may comprise the steps in the following order: determination, movement, and detection. Further alternatively, the steps of moving and determining may be performed at least partially simultaneously. Further alternatively, the plurality of recording sections or detection areas may be determined before the step of moving and detecting the plurality of recording sections is implemented.

In an embodiment explained in detail later, i.e. in which the detection regions are formed along a diagonal of the detection area, the determined detection regions may be identical for a plurality of recording sections. Thus, the determined detection area of the first recording section may remain the same for the second recording section. If necessary, a renewed determination and adjustment can be dispensed with here.

In the moving step, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are moved along a common recording direction. The moving speed of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector may be substantially the same. Alternatively, the moving speed of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector may be different. The movement speed of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector during examination or recording may be substantially the same for a first part-area of the examination area, while the movement speed of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector may be different for a second part-area of the examination area.

In the determination step, for the recording section, a strip-shaped detection region which is particularly active is determined in the detection plane such that the extent of the X-ray recording is extended in comparison with a further X-ray recording which differs from the X-ray recording and which is recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector.

The determined strip-shaped detection area has a specific position within the detection plane. The detection area may comprise a matrix-like arrangement of a plurality of detector pixels. The matrix-like arrangement may comprise a plurality of rows and columns of respectively a plurality of detector pixels. The detection area can be designed in particular as a rectangle or square. The detection area may have dimensions of 42cm x 41.5cm, for example. The strip-shaped detection region may in particular comprise a plurality of rows of detector pixels, in particular substantially all rows of detector pixels. The strip-shaped detection region can be at least in particular active. The entire detection zone may be active. In the detection step, for example, the data of the entire detection area can be read, or only the data of the detection area can be read. The segment data set may comprise data of the entire detection area or may comprise data of only the detection region. In the generating step, for example, only the data of the detection region of the relevant recording section can be used.

The extension of the X-ray recording or examination area is expanded or enlarged. The examination region can in particular be larger than a further examination region of a further X-ray recording with a strip-shaped detection region which is parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector and which does not change in the detection plane. The predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector for recording a further X-ray recording is substantially constant for all recording sections. The predetermined detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector can also be described as constant or fixed or as a unique detection region. In this case, substantially each recorded section is recorded by means of substantially the same detection area when recording the further examination area. Thereby possibly causing a bright-burn effect. A different further X-ray recording of a further examination region by means of a predetermined strip-like detection region is not normally comprised by the method according to the invention. A different further X-ray recording can be considered for comparing the size of the recordable examination area. The further X-ray recording can be distinguished from the X-ray recording by: the examination area of the X-ray recording is extended with respect to a further X-ray recording with a further examination area. Another X-ray recording can be distinguished in particular by: in another X-ray recording, the detection region is predetermined, i.e. remains constant from recording section to recording section, and the detection region is formed parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector or detection region. Another X-ray recording may be comprised in particular by known methods.

In particular, the active detection zone has a first extension and a second extension. The first extension corresponds substantially to the width or diagonal of the detection surface. The second extension is smaller than the length or height of the X-ray detector or detection face. The second extension may be, for example, between 3cm and 7 cm. The second extension may preferably be about 5 cm. The second extension may preferably be between 5% and 20%, in particular 10% to 14%, preferably approximately 12%, of the height of the X-ray detector or detection area.

In the detection step, the recording section is detected by means of the determined detection region and the X-ray source. In particular, a segment data record can be created or detected. The X-ray source emits X-ray radiation towards the X-ray detector and an examination object arranged between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. X-ray radiation that is not attenuated by the examination object impinges on the detection region and is registered there. The X-ray radiation registered by the X-ray detector is stored or detected in the segment data set.

In the generating step, a combined X-ray recording of the examination region is generated from the recording sections. The image recording area or X-ray recording consists of a plurality of strip-shaped individual recording or recording sections which are recorded sequentially. The recording sections can in particular overlap at least slightly, so that, for example, the combination is simplified. The recording sections may in particular overlap at least slightly, so that for example one position in the examination area is comprised by a plurality of recording sections. Thereby, data from multiple recording sections may contribute to one data point or pixel in the combined X-ray recording. The combination of 3 or more recording segments in the X-ray recording can in particular contribute to one data point or pixel.

Advantageously, so-called narrow slit exposure acquisitions can be recorded by means of a radiography system, without the need to mechanically modify the radiography system for this purpose. Advantageously, the height of the entire image or combined X-ray recording or examination area can be enlarged compared to using a fixed or predetermined or constant activation detection area parallel to the edges of the X-ray detector. Advantageously, the width of the image recording area or the examination area can be enlarged, for example.

An alternative and costly solution is to adjust the mechanical structure of the X-ray system, for example using an X-ray detector, the dimensions of which are optimized for the narrow slit exposure acquisition technique. The X-ray detector must have a shape corresponding to the aperture or detection area, but such a detector can only be used for narrow aperture exposure acquisition recordings. The method according to the invention overcomes said drawbacks.

According to an aspect of the invention, in the step of determining, the detection area is shifted in the recording direction within the detection plane compared to a previous detection area of a previously recorded section.

The method is designed for recording an X-ray recording of an examination region of an examination object by means of an X-ray system. The X-ray system comprises an X-ray source arranged on the radiator shifting unit and an X-ray detector with a detection surface arranged on the detector shifting unit. The method has the step of selecting an examination region. The method also has the step of recording successive recorded sections segment by segment with respect to the examination area, wherein these steps comprise the steps of moving, determining and detecting. In the moving step, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are moved along a common recording direction. In the determining, the strip-shaped detection region may be determined within the detection plane for the recording section such that the detection region may be shifted in the recording direction within the detection plane compared to a previous detection region of a previous recording section. Thereby, the extension of the X-ray recording can be extended compared to another X-ray recording different from the X-ray recording, which is recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection area parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector, wherein the predetermined strip-shaped detection area is constant or remains constant for the recording section and the previous recording section.

In the detection step, the recording section is detected by means of the determined detection region and the X-ray source. In the generating step, a combined X-ray recording of the examination region is generated from the recording sections.

The detection region can be adapted in particular here to the examination region in which the detection region is displaced, so that an extended examination region can be recorded. The position of the detection region in the detection plane can be changed in such a way that the center of gravity of the detection region changes in the recording direction relative to the preceding detection region or recording section. The changed detection regions may in particular have an overlap compared to the previous detection regions. The changed detection region may, for example, have, in part, the same detector pixels as the preceding detection region and a different proportion of detector pixels, in particular a different proportion of detector pixels than the preceding detection region, which is arranged in the recording direction. The examination region can advantageously be expanded.

The image height of the X-ray recording or examination area can advantageously be maximized. The method can be described as the so-called shifted slit method (Shifting-Slot-Verfahren). During the X-ray recording, the detection region may be displaced.

In the case of robotic radiographic systems in particular, the travel range is more strongly limited by the detector gantry or the detector displacement unit than by the tube gantry or the tube displacement unit when recording standing and lying examination objects.

In particular in the case of standing examination objects, the travel range may be limited downwards by the X-ray detector and/or by the X-ray source. Thereby, the examination area may be limited downwards, in particular if the X-ray source is aligned centrally to the X-ray detector for a plurality of recording segments or all recording segments. By means of the method according to the invention, the examination zone can be extended downwards in the detection plane by the variable detection zone.

For the upward travel range, the situation is similar: in particular, if the X-ray source is aligned centrally with respect to the X-ray detector for a plurality of or all recording segments, the region may also be limited by the detector carrier. By means of the method according to the invention, the examination area can be expanded upwards in the detection plane by the variable detection zone by moving the detection zone from below upwards to above the detector during the X-ray recording.

Advantageously, in the case of a standing examination subject, an additional image height of about 20cm, for example, can be obtained, or the examination region can be expanded along the recording direction.

In the case of an examination object arranged on an examination table, the travel range may likewise be limited by the detector support or the detector displacement unit, since the movement of the X-ray detector may be limited, for example, by table feet. By means of the method according to the invention, the examination area can be expanded to one side in the detection plane by the variable detection region by moving or displacing the detection region in the detection plane during the X-ray recording.

According to an aspect of the invention, in the moving step, a detector moving speed of the X-ray detector is lower than an irradiator moving speed of the X-ray source. In the step of moving, the X-ray source can, in particular, simultaneously traverse longer segments than the X-ray detector. The examination region or the X-ray recording can advantageously be extended.

According to an aspect of the invention, the extension of the X-ray recording along the recording direction is larger than the maximum distance between the detector center in the start position of the X-ray detector and the detector center in the end position of the X-ray detector. The detector center can be formed, for example, in the center of gravity of the detection area. The detector center may also be described as the detector center position. The extension of the examination zone along the recording direction may be larger than the maximum distance between the detector center in the start position of the X-ray detector and the detector center in the end position of the X-ray detector. X-ray recording images an especially extended examination area.

In this way, given the mechanical requirements of the X-ray system, the height of the entire image or recording area can be made as large as possible. For example, advantageously a whole-body recording with a larger height range or length range can be achieved.

According to one aspect of the invention, the irradiation time and/or the irradiation dose are distributed substantially uniformly over the detection area. The X-ray radiation can be spatially distributed over the detection area over the duration of the X-ray recording. This makes it possible to equalize the load on the X-ray detector. Advantageously, a dose loading or irradiation which is as even or uniform as possible can be achieved by means of the X-ray radiation of substantially the entire detection area. Advantageously, the so-called Brightburn effect can be reduced or avoided.

The Brightburn effect can advantageously be prevented in that the same detector portions or the same detection areas are exposed discontinuously during scanning or X-ray recording. The radiation may be equally distributed over the entire detection area.

According to one aspect of the invention, in the step of determining, the detection area is formed along a diagonal of the detection plane. The method is designed for recording an X-ray recording of an examination region of an examination object by means of an X-ray system. The X-ray system comprises an X-ray source arranged on the radiator shifting unit and an X-ray detector with a detection surface arranged on the detector shifting unit. The method has the step of selecting an examination region. The method also has the step of recording successive recorded segments segment by segment with respect to the examination area, here including the steps of moving, determining and detecting. In the moving step, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are moved along a common recording direction. In the determining step, a strip-shaped detection region may be determined in the detection plane for the recording section such that the detection region may be formed along a diagonal of the detection plane. Thereby, the extension of the X-ray recording can be extended compared to another X-ray recording, different from the X-ray recording, which is recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection area parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector. In the detection step, the recording section is detected by means of the determined detection region and the X-ray source. In the generating step, a combined X-ray recording of the examination region is generated from the recording sections.

A maximization of the slit width or of the extension of the X-ray recording can advantageously be achieved by a rotating X-ray detector. The X-ray detector can be rotated about an axis of the surface normal of the detection area, such that the diagonal of the detection area is oriented substantially perpendicular to the recording direction.

The detection region can be formed along a diagonal of the detection area for a plurality of, in particular, successive recording sections. In this case, a detection region can be determined for each recording section. Alternatively, a detection region can be determined for the first recording section, and the steps of moving and detecting can be performed separately for each recording section by means of the detection region.

To maximize the image width, a slit or detection area can be imaged or formed on the rotating X-ray detector. The detection region can in particular be formed along a detection area or a diagonal of the X-ray detector.

In particular in the case of a robotic radiography system, the X-ray detector can be rotated such that the detection area can be formed along the diagonal of the detection plane. In particular for back-and-forth/AP X-ray recordings, the X-ray detector can be rotated by means of a detector carrier or a tilting unit formed on the detector carrier or a rotatable bearing mechanism on the X-ray detector which is mechanically connected to the detector carrier. The X-ray detector can thus be rotated about the normal of the detection plane. The size of the X-ray detector is about 42X 42cm²In this case, a maximum slot width or a maximum extension of the detection region of about 59cm can be obtained.

In particular, the robotic radiography system may have a detector width or an extension of the detection area of, for example, approximately 42 cm. In the case of an X-ray focus-X-ray detector distance of, for example, 132cm and an X-ray focus-examination object distance of, for example, 105cm, an image width in the object of approximately 33.4cm results if the detection surfaces are arranged such that one edge of the detection surfaces extends parallel to the recording direction and the other edge perpendicular thereto extends perpendicular to the recording direction. The orientation of the detection surface can be described as a standard orientation. Here, the detection surface may have an angle of substantially 0 degrees with respect to the recording direction.

In the case of a rotational orientation, in which the diagonal of the detection area is oriented substantially perpendicular to the recording direction, the detection area can have an angle of substantially 45 degrees, in particular if the detection area is formed substantially square. For 42X 42cm²The X-ray detector of (1) yields a diagonal of the maximum slit width or detection face having a length of about 59 cm. In the case of a detector width or an extension of the detection area of, for example, approximately 42cm and in the case of an X-ray focus-X-ray detector distance of, for example, 132cm and an X-ray focus-examination object distance of, for example, 105cm, an image width in the object of approximately 47cm results. At the height of the slit or detection zoneIn the case of an extension of about 5cm along the recording direction, it can be concluded that the usable slit width or the usable image width perpendicular to the recording direction in the examination object is about 43 cm. The extension of the detection region perpendicular to the recording direction can advantageously be expanded or enlarged. The width of the image available in the examination object can advantageously be extended.

In a specific embodiment, in the step of determining, the detection region formed along the diagonal can be shifted in the detection plane in the recording direction compared to a preceding detection region of a preceding recording section. Thereby, for example, a more equal radiation or dose burden can be achieved. Here, the displacement range along the recording direction may be limited such that the extension of the detection area perpendicular to the recording direction does not become smaller than the width of the detection plane in the standard orientation.

According to one aspect of the invention, the extension of the X-ray recording perpendicular to the recording direction is larger than the detector width of the X-ray detector. In this case, the detection region can be formed along a diagonal of the detection area in the determination step. The extension of the examination region perpendicular to the recording direction, in particular in the plane of the detection area, in which at least one edge of the detection area parallel to the recording direction is oriented in the standard orientation, may be greater than the detector width of the X-ray detector in the normal position or in the standard orientation. The extension of the X-ray recording perpendicular to the recording direction and the detector width of the X-ray detector or detection area can in particular lie in the same plane, i.e. the plane extending through the detection area. The X-ray recording can advantageously be extended such that a wider region in the examination object can be imaged. For example, wider hip recordings can be achieved.

In a further embodiment, sections and in particular successive recording sections are recorded by means of a detection region along a diagonal of the detection area, wherein in the detection area the detection region is shifted from one recording section to a subsequent recording section or wherein a predetermined detection region is alternatively adjusted or determined. It is advantageously possible to combine the two methods for extended X-ray recording.

With a rotating X-ray detector, the travel range of the X-ray detector can be limited. A wide field of view may be required primarily in the torso area, particularly the hips and shoulders. On the legs and head, a narrow field of view may be sufficient. In the lower partial region of the examination region, for example in the region of the feet, it is therefore possible to record segment by segment with different detection regions. The detection region for the first recording section can be formed in particular substantially at the lower edge of the detection area and parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector. For subsequent recording sections, the detection region may be shifted in the recording direction, for example up to the region in front of the buttocks. The X-ray detector can be rotated substantially in said position such that the detection region is formed along a diagonal of the detection region. A plurality of recording sections, for example recording sections of the region comprising the buttocks and possibly the shoulders, can now be recorded or detected along the diagonal of the detection region by means of the detection region. In the region above the shoulder, the X-ray detector can be rotated at a position such that the detection region is formed parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector. A plurality of recording segments can now be recorded, wherein the detection region is displaced along the recording direction, in particular up to substantially the edge of the X-ray detector. Advantageously, the examination region can be locally widened or lengthened. In general, the examination region can be extended, in particular with respect to an X-ray recording using only one predetermined detection region.

According to an aspect of the invention, in the step of recording segment by segment

For the first recording section, a first detection region along a diagonal of the detection area is determined, and

for the second recording section, a second detection region is determined parallel to an edge of the X-ray detector which is arranged perpendicular to the recording direction.

Advantageously, an expanded or wider area of the examination area may be recorded first, followed by a generally wide area.

According to an aspect of the invention, in the step of recording segment by segment, the third detection region is shifted in the recording direction within the detection plane also for the third recording section as compared to the second detection region. Advantageously, by shifting the detection region from the second recording section to the third recording section along the recording direction, the region of normal width can be extended or expanded.

According to an aspect of the invention, in the step of recording segment by segment:

for the first recording section, a first detection region is determined parallel to an edge of the X-ray detector arranged perpendicular to the recording direction, and

for the second recording section, the second detection zone is shifted in the recording direction within the detection plane compared to the first detection zone.

Advantageously, by shifting the detection region from recording section to recording section along the recording direction, the region of usual width can be extended or expanded.

According to one aspect of the invention, in the step of recording segment by segment, a third detection region is also determined for the third recording segment along a diagonal of the detection plane. Advantageously, a region of normal width may be recorded first, and an expanded or wider region of the examination region may be recorded subsequently.

According to an aspect of the invention, the examination object is arranged to stand between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector or the examination object is arranged to lie on an examination table between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector.

The invention relates to a medical X-ray system for performing a method according to the invention, the method comprising:

an X-ray source arranged on the emitter displacement unit and an X-ray detector with a detection area arranged on the detector displacement unit,

a selection unit for selecting an examination region,

a recording unit for recording successive recording sections step by step,

a control unit for moving the X-ray source and the X-ray detector along a recording direction,

a determination unit for determining a strip-shaped detection region in a detection plane for a recording section, an

A generation unit for generating a combined X-ray recording from the recording sections.

In particular, medical X-ray systems form an X-ray recording for recording an examination region of an examination object. The X-ray system has an X-ray source arranged on the emitter displacement unit and an X-ray detector with a detection surface arranged on the detector displacement unit. The medical device may in particular be a robotic radiography system. The step of moving may be realized by means of an emitter displacement unit and/or a detector displacement unit. The X-ray source and the X-ray detector are moved along a common recording direction. The control unit is designed for moving the X-ray source and the X-ray detector along the recording direction. The control unit may in particular move the emitter displacement unit and/or the detector displacement unit.

The selection unit may for example comprise a user interface for selecting the examination region. For example, a screen for display and an input device for input based on the display may be provided.

The recording unit is designed for recording successive recording sections step by step with respect to the examination area.

The determination unit is designed for determining a strip-shaped detection region in the detection plane for the recording section. The determination unit is designed, for example, in the form of a calculation unit, such that the extent of the X-ray recordings is extended, in particular in comparison with a further X-ray recording, which differs from the X-ray recording, recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector.

The X-ray detector is designed to detect the recording section by means of the determined detection region. The X-ray detector and the X-ray source may be described as detection units. The generation unit is designed for generating a combined X-ray recording from the recording sections. The generating unit may comprise another computing unit or processor. The generation unit may further comprise a storage unit for storing the recording sections and/or the combined X-ray recordings.

According to one aspect of the invention, the X-ray detector comprises a rotatable support mechanism and/or a variable strip-like detection region.

The rotatable support means can also be designed in the form of a tilting unit formed on the detector support and in this case still be comprised by the X-ray detector, for example by means of a mechanical connection. The rotatable support or tilting unit is designed to be mechanically connected to the X-ray detector, the detector carrier or the detector displacement unit. The rotatable support mechanism or the tilting unit enables a rotation of the X-ray detector, in particular of at least about 45 degrees. The detection region can advantageously be formed along a diagonal of the detection area.

The variable strip-shaped detector region can be designed, for example, such that all detector pixels are read out, but in particular only the data of the detector pixels in the strip-shaped detector region are used for generating the combined X-ray image. The variable strip-shaped detector region can be adjusted or selected by means of an optional selection of data from the segment data sets. For example, the segment data sets can be associated with parameter sets which specify which detector pixels are used in the generation of the combined X-ray recording.

Alternatively, in particular only the detector pixels of the strip-shaped detector region can be read out and then considered for generating the combined X-ray recording. The variable strip-shaped detector area can be adjusted by means of steering, in particular steering, the X-ray detector for reading. Advantageously, the strip-shaped detector region can be variably selected or determined.

A detector-side collimator can advantageously be avoided. The detector-side, in particular variable collimator may require structural changes to the X-ray detector and/or in turn impose limitations on the travel range of the X-ray detector. Advantageously, an X-ray detector can be used which allows both a planar individual recording by means of the entire detection area and a slit scanning method by means of an extended examination area. A strip detector with a strip-shaped detection surface substantially in the size of the strip-shaped detection area can advantageously be avoided.

The invention also relates to a computer program product with a computer program which can be loaded directly into a memory means of a control device of an X-ray system, having program segments for carrying out all the steps of the method according to the invention when the computer program is run in the control device of the X-ray system. The invention also relates to a computer-readable medium on which program segments are stored which can be read and executed by a computing unit in order to perform all the steps of the method according to the invention when the program segments are run by an X-ray system.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to the drawings. Shown here are:

fig. 1 schematically illustrates a method according to the invention in a first embodiment;

fig. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a further method for recording a further X-ray recording;

fig. 3 schematically shows a method according to the invention in a second embodiment;

fig. 4 shows an X-ray recording according to the invention according to a first embodiment in comparison with a further X-ray recording;

fig. 5 shows an arrangement of an X-ray system for recording a further X-ray recording in a first embodiment;

fig. 6 shows an arrangement according to the invention of an X-ray system according to the invention for recording X-ray recordings according to the invention in a first embodiment;

fig. 7 shows an arrangement of an X-ray system for recording a further X-ray recording in a second embodiment;

fig. 8 shows an arrangement according to the invention of an X-ray system according to the invention for recording X-ray recordings according to the invention in a second embodiment;

fig. 9 shows an X-ray recording according to the invention according to a second embodiment in comparison with a further X-ray recording;

fig. 10 shows a detector displacement unit according to the invention with an X-ray detector according to the invention with a detection region in a first embodiment;

fig. 11 shows a detector displacement unit according to the invention with an X-ray detector according to the invention with a detection region in a second embodiment;

fig. 12 schematically shows a method according to the invention in a third embodiment;

fig. 13 shows an X-ray recording according to the invention according to a third embodiment in comparison with a further X-ray recording;

fig. 14 schematically shows a method according to the invention in a fourth embodiment; and

fig. 15 shows an X-ray system according to the invention.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method V according to the invention in a first embodiment in a schematic representation. Method V constitutes an X-ray recording for recording an examination area of an examination object. The recording is effected by means of an X-ray system comprising an X-ray source arranged on the emitter displacement unit and an X-ray detector with a detection area arranged on the detector displacement unit. In one embodiment, the method may have the following steps.

In the step of selecting S1, an inspection region of the inspection object is selected. The examination region can also be described as an examination area, for example. The examination region may comprise, for example, at least one of the following body regions of the examination subject: legs, buttocks, torso, shoulders, and/or head. The examination area may be rectangular or comprise a plurality of rectangular areas bordering on each other, for example.

In the step of recording S2 segment by segment, successive recording segments are recorded with respect to the examination area. The examination area is recorded by means of a recording section. The examination region is associated with a plurality of recording sections. The recording sections are in particular adjacent and/or overlapping. The examination region is divided into a plurality of examination sections. During the recording of S2 segment by segment, the steps of moving S3, determining S4, and detecting S5 are performed. In a preferred embodiment, the steps of moving S3, determining S4, and detecting S5 may be repeated cyclically (dashed path), in particular to detect or record one recording segment, respectively.

In the moving step S3, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are moved along a common recording direction. In a determination step S4, a strip-shaped detection region is determined in the detection plane for the recording section such that the extension of the X-ray recording is expanded compared to a further X-ray recording, which differs from the X-ray recording, recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector. In a detection step S5, the recording section is detected with the aid of the determined detection region and the X-ray source.

In particular a plurality of recording sections. Recording segment by segment enables in particular a plurality of detected recording segments. In a generating step S6, a combined X-ray recording of the examination region is generated from the recording sections.

Fig. 2 schematically shows an exemplary further method for recording a further X-ray recording. A further X-ray recording is recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region 12 parallel to the edges of the X-ray detector. The X-ray detector comprises a detection area 10. A predetermined strip-shaped detection region 12 is formed at a constant or predetermined position within the detection area 10, for example centrally between the upper and lower edges of the detection area 10 or of the X-ray detector. The predetermined detection region 12 is formed parallel to the edge strip of the X-ray detector or detection area 10. The detection area 10 has a detector width 13 and a detector height 14.

The X-ray detector and the X-ray source with the detection surface 10 are moved along the recording direction 20 from a start position P1 to a further position Pk and an end position Pn. In the starting position P1, the further position Pk and the end position Pn, the detection region 12 is formed at a constant or predetermined position within the detection area 10, for example centrally between the upper and lower edges of the detection area 10 or of the X-ray detector.

In the starting position P1, the detection region is formed at the detector center position or the detector center 15. In the end position Pn, the detection region is formed at the detector center position or the detector center 15'. The maximum distance 16 between the detector center position 15 in the start position P1 and the detector center position 15' in the end position is limited, in particular, by the possible travel range of the X-ray source or X-ray detector. By means of which another X-ray recording can be recorded.

Fig. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method V according to the invention in a second embodiment in a schematic representation. In the determining step, the detection region 11 is displaced within the detection plane 10 in the recording direction 20 for recording in the further position Pk compared to a previous detection region of a previously recorded section in the start position P1. In the step of determining, the detection area 11 is shifted within the detection plane 10 in the recording direction 20 for recording in the final position Pn compared to a previous detection area of a previously recorded section in another position Pk. In the starting position P1, the detection region 11 is formed on the upper edge of the detection area. In the other position Pk, the detection region 11 is formed at the detector center position or the detector center. At the end position Pn, the detection region 11 is formed on the lower edge of the detection region 10. In the moving step, the detector moving speed of the X-ray detector is lower than the radiator moving speed of the X-ray source. The X-ray detector travels a shorter distance in the same time than the X-ray source.

The extension 17 of the X-ray recording along the recording direction 20 is greater than the maximum distance 16 between the detector center position 15 in the starting position P1 of the X-ray detector and the detector center position 15' in the end position Pn of the X-ray detector. The extension 17 of the X-ray recording is extended compared to a further X-ray recording, which is different from the X-ray recording, recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector. The irradiation time and/or the irradiation dose are distributed substantially uniformly over the detection area.

Fig. 4 shows an exemplary X-ray recording 18 according to the invention according to the first embodiment compared to a further X-ray recording 19. The extension 17 of the X-ray recording 18 is extended compared to a further X-ray recording 19, which is different from the X-ray recording, recorded by means of a predetermined strip-shaped detection region parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector. The extension of the further X-ray recording parallel to the extension 17 corresponds to the distance 16. The X-ray recording 18 comprises a rectangular surface which is developed by the detector width 13 and the extension 17 of the X-ray recording. Another X-ray recording 19 comprises a rectangular surface which is spread out by the detector width 13 and the maximum distance 16.

Fig. 5 shows an exemplary arrangement of an X-ray system for recording a further X-ray recording in a first embodiment. The medical X-ray system 30 comprises an X-ray source 32 and an X-ray detector 35. The X-ray source 32 emits X-ray radiation 33 towards an X-ray detector 35. The X-ray source 32 and the X-ray detector 35 are associated with one another such that the central beam of the X-ray source impinges essentially perpendicularly on the detection area 10, in particular on the detection region 12. The (room) bottom is the moving limit 36 of the X-ray detector 35, whereby the traveling path of the X-ray detector 35 is limited. The arrangement is particularly suitable for recording standing patients or examination subjects. The detection region 12 is formed at a detector center position.

Fig. 6 shows an exemplary arrangement according to the invention of an X-ray system according to the invention for recording X-ray recordings according to the invention in a first embodiment. The X-ray source 32 and the X-ray detector 35 are associated with one another such that the central beam of the X-ray source impinges essentially perpendicularly on the detection area 10, in particular on the detection region 11.

The (room) bottom is the moving limit 36 of the X-ray detector 35, whereby the traveling path of the X-ray detector 35 is limited. The (room) bottom is also the limit of movement 36 of the X-ray source 32, whereby the travel path of the X-ray source 32 is limited. The arrangement is particularly suitable for recording standing patients or examination subjects. The detection region 11 is formed below the center position of the detector. The X-ray source 32 and the X-ray detector 35 are in an end position. The extension of the X-ray recording can thereby be extended.

Fig. 7 shows an exemplary arrangement according to the invention of an X-ray system for recording a further X-ray recording in a second embodiment. The examination table 37, in particular the table foot thereof, is the movement limit 36 of the X-ray detector 35, whereby the travel path of the X-ray detector 35 is limited. The arrangement is particularly suitable for recording a patient or examination subject lying on the examination table 37. The detection region 12 is formed at a detector center position.

Fig. 8 shows an exemplary arrangement according to the invention of an X-ray system according to the invention for recording X-ray recordings according to the invention in a second embodiment. The examination table 37 is the movement limit 36 of the X-ray detector 35, whereby the travel path of the X-ray detector 35 is limited. The arrangement is particularly suitable for recording a lying patient or examination subject. The detection area 11 is formed to the left of the center position of the detector or closer to the table foot than the predetermined detection area 12 in fig. 7. The X-ray source 32 and the X-ray detector 35 are in an end position. The extension of the X-ray recording can thereby be extended.

Fig. 9 shows an exemplary X-ray recording 18 according to the invention according to the second embodiment compared to a further X-ray recording 19. In the step of determining the detection region 11, the detection region 11 is formed along a diagonal of the detection area 10. The detection region 11 is moved together with the X-ray detector along a recording direction 20 such that the examination region is recorded along a further extension 21. Thereby, the extension 17' of the X-ray recording 18 perpendicular to the recording direction becomes larger than the detector width 13 of the X-ray detector.

The X-ray recording 18 comprises an extension 17' by the X-ray recording and a rectangular face of another extension of the X-ray recording 21. The extension 17' corresponds substantially to the width of the detection zone 11. The further X-ray recording 19 comprises a rectangular area which is spread over the detector width 13 and the maximum distance or a further extension of the X-ray recording 21.

Fig. 10 shows an exemplary detector displacement unit 34 with an X-ray detector 35 according to the invention with a detection region 11 in a first embodiment. The detection region 11 is preferably designed in a strip-like manner, preferably variably, in the detection area 10. The detector displacement unit 34 is preferably constructed as a detector stand, in particular suspended from a ceiling. The mechanical connection between the X-ray detector 35 and the detector displacement unit 34 comprises a tilting unit 39 by means of which the X-ray detector 35 can be rotated or aligned. The X-ray detector 35 is rotated or aligned such that the detection region 11 is aligned perpendicular to the recording direction 20.

Fig. 11 shows an exemplary detector displacement unit 34 with an X-ray detector 35 according to the invention with a detection region 11 in a second embodiment.

The detection area 11 is formed in a stripe shape along a diagonal line of the detection surface 10 in the detection surface 10. The detector displacement unit 34 is preferably constructed as a detector support. The mechanical connection between the X-ray detector 35 and the detector displacement unit 34 comprises a tilting unit 39. The X-ray detector 35 is tilted such that the detection region 11 is oriented perpendicular to the recording direction 20.

Fig. 12 shows an exemplary method according to the invention in a third embodiment in a schematic representation. In the step of recording segment by segment, the previously described embodiments are exemplarily combined. For a first recording section, for example in the starting position P1, the first detection region 11 is defined parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector which is arranged perpendicularly to the recording direction 20. The detection region 11 may be arranged, for example, on the lower edge of the X-ray detector. For the second recording section, the second detection region is shifted in the recording direction within the detection plane 10 compared to the first detection region. Subsequently, for the third recording section, a third detection region 11 is determined along a diagonal of the detection area, for example in a further position Pk. For the fourth recording section, a fourth detection region 11 is determined parallel to the edge of the X-ray detector arranged perpendicular to the recording direction 20, for example in the end position Pn. The detection zone 11 is displaced in the recording direction 20 with respect to the previously recorded section.

Fig. 13 shows an exemplary X-ray recording 18 according to the third embodiment in comparison with a further X-ray recording 19. The X-ray recording 18 is spread along the extension 17 in the recording direction. Perpendicular to the recording direction, the X-ray recordings 18 are spread out along the detector width 13 in the lower and upper regions. In the middle region, the X-ray recording 18 is spread along the extension 17'. The further X-ray recording 19 is rectangular and extends over the detector width 13 and the distance 16. The X-ray recording 18 extends in the recording direction relative to the further X-ray recording 19 and extends perpendicular to the recording direction in the middle region.

Fig. 14 schematically shows an exemplary method according to the invention in a fourth embodiment. The fourth embodiment substantially corresponds to the third embodiment in fig. 12. The respective position of the X-ray detector 35 is shown in exemplary association with the examination object 38 in a starting position P1, a further position Pk and an end position Pn.

Fig. 15 shows an exemplary medical X-ray system 30 according to the invention for performing a method according to the invention. The X-ray system 30 has an X-ray source 32 arranged on an emitter displacement unit 31 or an emitter support and an X-ray detector 35 with a detection area arranged on a detector displacement unit 34 or a detector support. The X-ray system 30 further has a selection unit 41 for selecting an examination region. The X-ray system 30 also has a recording unit 42 for recording successive recording sections step by step. The X-ray system 30 further has a control unit 43 for moving the X-ray source 32 and the X-ray detector 35 along the recording direction. The X-ray system 30 further has a determination unit 44 for determining a strip-shaped detection region in the detection plane for the recording section. The X-ray system 30 further has a generation unit 45 for generating a combined X-ray recording from the recording sections. The X-ray detector 35 has a rotatable support mechanism, for example in the form of a tilting unit 39, and/or a variable strip-shaped detection region.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples and other variants can be derived by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.