CN106163402A

CN106163402A - For controlling the system and method with the motion of the detector of the detector head of movement

Info

Publication number: CN106163402A
Application number: CN201480070958.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J-P.布尼克; T.拉菲利; G.科瓦尔斯基; Y.格罗布什泰因; R.马哈米德; Y.赫菲茨; E.宾亚敏; Y.青格曼; N.R.瓦特斯基
Original assignee: GE Medical Systems Israel Ltd
Current assignee: GE Medical Systems Israel Ltd
Priority date: 2013-12-24
Filing date: 2014-09-28
Publication date: 2016-11-23
Also published as: EP3086713A1; IL280776A; US20230190213A1; IL246224B; IL246224A0; WO2015097690A1

Abstract

Provide a kind of imaging system, comprise stand, be installed to the detector cell of stand, at least one processing unit and controller.At least one processing unit is configured to obtain the object information corresponding to object and automatically determine at least one Part I of object and at least one Part II of object.Controller is configured to control the in rotary moving of detector cell.Detector cell can rotate with sweep rate in the range of the visual field of object wanting imaging, and controller is configured to uneven sweep rate rotation detector unit.Uneven sweep rate changes during the rotation from primary importance to the second position, wherein, with compared with at least one Part II, obtains more substantial scanning information at least one Part I.

Description

For control have movement detector head detector motion system and Method

Background technology

The subject matter disclosed herein relate generally to the diagnostic medical imaging for such as nuclear medicine (NM) imaging equipment and Method.

In NM imaging, can be used to for subject imaging, such as, sweep with the system of multiple detectors or detector head Retouch area-of-interest.Such as, detector can be with person under inspection's adjacent positioned to gather NM data, and NM data are used for generating person under inspection's Three-dimensional (3D) image.

Single photon emission computed tomography radiography (SPECT) system can have the detector head of movement, such as, be positioned to gather Burnt gamma detector on the region of interest.Such as, many gamma camera arrangements can be moved (such as, rotating) to different angles Degree position is used for gathering view data.The view data gathered is used for generating 3D rendering subsequently.

The resolution of gamma detector is the convolution of detector resolution (mainly pixel size) and collimator resolution (convolution).Collimator resolution is demoted with the distance of person under inspection due to collimator.With multiple swing detector In the conventional SPECT camera arrangement system of head, detector waves around fixed pivot axi (generally inside protective cover).Due to these The configuration of system, comprises detector and collimator, and gamma camera arrangement often must be placed at away from person under inspection's additional distance.Away from From this increase cause the degradation of resolution.

Accordingly, because cause gamma camera arrangement person under inspection because of the detector head used or the configuration of collimator The type of the mobile control of the neighbouring restriction that can move and/or gamma camera arrangement, it is known that system has in imaging resolution Degradation.Furthermore it is known that system can make patient be exposed to higher than under required radiation level.

Summary of the invention

In one embodiment, it is provided that comprise stand, be installed to the detector cell of stand, at least one processing unit A kind of imaging system with controller.At least one processing unit is configured to obtain the object information of the object corresponding to wanting imaging With based on object information, automatically determine at least one Part I of object and at least one Part II of object.Controller It is configured to control the in rotary moving of detector cell.Detector cell can be with frequency sweep (sweep) speed from primary importance to Two positions rotate, thus define the scope in the visual field of the object wanting imaging, and controller is configured to uneven sweep rate From primary importance to second position rotation detector unit.Uneven sweep rate is in the rotation from primary importance to the second position Period changes, and wherein, with compared with at least one Part II, obtains more substantial scanning at least one Part I Information.

In another embodiment, it is provided that comprise stand, multiple detector cell, at least one processing unit and controller A kind of imaging system.Multiple detector cells are installed to stand, and can move individually, comprise translation and move and rotate shifting Dynamic.At least one processing unit is configured to obtain the object information of the object corresponding to wanting imaging and based on object information, automatically Determine at least one Part I of object and at least one Part II of object.Controller is configured to control multiple detector Unit in rotary moving.Detector cell can rotate individually to the second position from corresponding primary importance thus define and want the right of imaging The scope in the visual field of elephant, and controller is configured to uneven sweep rate from the primary importance of detector cell to detector The second position of unit rotates at least one detector cell.Uneven sweep rate is configured to from primary importance to second Change during the rotation put, wherein, with compared with at least one second position, obtain bigger at least one primary importance The scanning information of amount.

In another embodiment, it is provided that a kind of method for object is carried out imaging.Method comprise acquisition corresponding to Want the object information of the object of imaging.Method also comprises based on object information, determines at least one Part I of object and right At least one Part II of elephant.Method also comprise with sweep rate rotate from primary importance to the second position at least one detection Device unit, thus define the scope in the visual field of the object wanting imaging, with acquisition scans information.Rotation detector unit be included in from Primary importance, to during the rotation of the second position, changes sweep rate.Change frequency sweep so that with at least one second position Compare, obtain more substantial scanning information at least one primary importance.

Accompanying drawing explanation

Fig. 1 is the schematic block diagram of nuclear medicine (NM) imaging system according to embodiment.

Fig. 2 is the sketch that diagram has the detector of the movement around an axle.

Fig. 3 is the sketch illustrating the detector without cover according to various embodiments.

Fig. 4 is the sketch that diagram moves according to the detector of various embodiments.

Fig. 5 is the diagram sketch according to the collimator of the embodiment with higher resolution district.

Fig. 6 is the sketch illustrating the collimator arrangement according to embodiment.

Fig. 7 is the sketch of the manufacture illustrating the collimator according to embodiment.

Fig. 8 is to illustrate according to embodiment for the letter of the interlocking segment sheet (interlocking sheet) of the manufacture of collimator Figure.

Fig. 9 is the sketch illustrating the collimator arrangement according to another embodiment.

Figure 10 and Figure 11 is the sketch illustrating the collimator arrangement according to another embodiment.

Figure 12 is the sketch illustrating the collimator arrangement according to another embodiment.

Figure 13 is the sketch illustrating the collimator arrangement according to another embodiment.

Figure 14 is the sketch illustrating the collimator arrangement according to another embodiment.

Figure 15 is to illustrate according to embodiment, wherein can realize the letter of the imaging system of one or more configurations of detector Figure.

Figure 16 is to illustrate according to another embodiment, wherein can realize the imaging system of one or more configurations of detector Sketch.

Figure 17 and 18 is the sketch of the motion illustrating the detector according to embodiment.

Figure 19 is to illustrate the sketch that the detector arm according to embodiment configures.

Figure 20 is the perspective view of the imaging system according to another embodiment.

Figure 21 is the perspective view of the imaging system according to another embodiment.

Figure 22 is the flow chart of the method according to various embodiments.

Figure 23 diagram is according to the imaging system of various embodiments.

Figure 24 diagram is according to the imaging system of various embodiments.

Figure 25 diagram is according to the imaging system of various embodiments.

Figure 26 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes the example of sweep rate.

Figure 27 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.

Figure 28 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.

Figure 29 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.

Figure 30 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.

Figure 31 is according to various embodiments, for object carries out the flow chart of the method for imaging.

Figure 32 diagram is according to the lateral section of the collimator of various embodiments.

Figure 33 diagram is according to the lateral section of the collimator of various embodiments.

Figure 34 diagram is according to the side view of the collimator of various embodiments.

Figure 35 diagram is according to the side view of the collimator of various embodiments.

Figure 36 diagram is according to the top view of the collimator of various embodiments.

Figure 37 diagram is according to the side view of the collimator of various embodiments.

Detailed description of the invention

When reading in conjunction with the accompanying, it is better understood with being described below in detail of some embodiment.Various with regard to graphical representation For the sketch of the functional device of embodiment, functional device is not necessarily indicative to the division between ware circuit.Such as, one or many Individual functional device (such as, processor or memorizer) can be with single piece of hardware (such as, general purpose signal processor or random access memory Device block, hard disk or the like) or more than one piece hardware in realize.Similarly, program can be stand-alone program, can be as subroutine Comprise in an operating system, can be the function of software kit and the like installed.It should be understood that various embodiment not It is limited to the layout shown in figure and instrument.

As used herein, term " system ", " unit " or " module " can comprise operation one or more to perform The hardware of function and/or software system.Such as, module, unit or system can comprise based on having at such as computer storage In shape and nonvolatile computer readable storage medium storage instruction, perform operation computer processor, controller or its The device of its logic-based.Alternatively, module, unit or system can comprise firmware hardwired logic based on device, perform operation Hardwired device.Various modules shown in accompanying drawing or unit can represent based on software or hard-wired instruction carry out operating hard Part, the software guiding hardware execution operation or a combination thereof.

" system ", " unit " or " module " can comprise or represent the hardware performing one or more operations described herein (such as, the tangible and nonvolatile at such as computer hard disc driver, ROM, RAM or the like calculates with associated instructions The software of storage on machine readable storage medium).Hardware can comprise electronic circuit, and electronic circuit comprises and/or is connected to the most micro- The device of one or more logic-baseds of processor, processor, controller or the like.These devices can be suitable quilt Programming or instruction to perform the active device of operation described herein from above-mentioned instruction.Additionally or alternatively, one or many These devices individual can be with logic circuit hardwired to perform these operations.

As used herein, should with odd number statement and the element or the step that carry out with word "a" or "an" It is understood to be not excluded for the plural number of described element or step, the most this eliminating.Additionally, to " an enforcement Example " mention the existence being not intended to be interpreted get rid of the additional embodiment also comprising the feature stated.Additionally, unless Being expressly stated to the contrary, the embodiment of element or multiple element that " including " or " having " has specific character can comprise Not there is the add ons of that character.

Various embodiments provide for the movement controlling multiple imaging detector to position imaging detector to gather image The system and method for data.Such as, in various embodiments, it is provided that there is one or more nuclear medicine (NM) camera arrangement Imaging system, camera arrangement has the head array that can individually and independently move.In certain embodiments, one or more heads Have polytype movement, such as, translate, rotate, pivot and/or rotate, ability.NM in various embodiments claps It is configured to gather single photon emission computed tomography radiography (SPECT) data, such as when moving detector head according to device.Example As, various embodiments provide the combination of detector to move or compound movement, the combination that such as oscillating motion and up/down move.? In some embodiments, motion such as can comprise side-to-side movement.

In certain embodiments, controlled be formed as detector with provide during the rotation of detector change angular velocity or The sweep rate changed in another manner.Frequency sweep can be concentrated collection, and the most longer sweep time (and information gathering) performs For the volume corresponding with the visual field interested and/or one or more organ of interest.In the minds of in the visual field, than in the visual field External zones in take more time.With compared with other region, can be area-of-interest provide additional acquisition step or Additional angular samples.In certain embodiments, information can be gathered in stand rotation simultaneously.Additionally or alternatively, detector Can rotate independent of stand, carry out rotating or frequency sweep.First frequency sweep can be gamut frequency sweep, and is used for obtaining initial or detecing Examine image, can determine that area-of-interest or organ of interest from which.The movement of detector and/or stand can be lasting, Or perform in " static intensity modulating " (step-and shoot) mode.

In certain embodiments, can rotate at stand and gather data simultaneously, but individual other detector is dependent of stand and sweeps Frequency or pivot, the wherein collimator of the detector center towards stand and/or the center oriented of area-of-interest.This imaging Can be used to improve the picture quality of the center in visual field.

It may be noted that, in the SPECT camera arrangement using the multiple detector heads pivoting or waving, it is thus achieved that clinical The time of useful image depends on the size of scanned organ.In general, imaging volume interested with scanning head Extend on the longitudinal extent that width is corresponding, and the health width that is limited on horizontal direction or organ of interest.At whole body SPECT Period, patient can be moved relative to camera arrangement, and obtain big section or the 3D rendering of whole health.In various embodiments In, according to the part of health currently scanned, the control position of detector, range of rotation and frequency sweep or the speed of rotation Control, such as, to allow requiring that more information is to provide the increase scanning of the part of clinical useful image and to requiring less The minimizing scanning of the part of information.

Additionally, in various embodiments, imaging detector or camera arrangement head couple with collimator.Implement at some In example, it is provided that there is uneven thorax, specifically, there is the collimator of the thorax of different length.Such as, it is possible to provide different length Thorax (such as, uneven length), replaces the collimator with " box-like " shape, and wherein all thorax has equal length.At some In embodiment, the collimator thorax length of change increases resolution at the center or centre portion of detector, and reduces or disappear Except the gap between adjacent detector.

Various embodiments provide the imaging improved.Such as, acquisition time can be reduced.As another example, can be that sense is emerging Interest region or organ of interest increase resolution or picture quality.As another example, detector cell size can be reduced, thus Allow to can be placed in want detector near the object of imaging closer to or more accurately place and/or accelerate.

Fig. 1 be have be arranged on stand multiple imaging detectors (itself for example, it is possible to row install, with Rhizoma Iridis Tectori (iris) shape or other configuration are installed) the schematic diagram of NM imaging system 100.Specifically, multiple imaging detectors 102 are pacified Install to stand 104.In the illustrated embodiment, imaging detector 102 is configured at person under inspection 110(such as, patient) top and Two independent detector arrays 106 and 108 of stand 104 are coupled in lower section, as seen in Figure 1.Detector array 106 He 108 may be directly coupled to stand 104, or can through supporting member 112 be coupled to stand 104 with allow whole array 106 and/or 108 move relative to stand 104 that (such as, translation in left direction or in right direction moves as seen in Figure 1 Dynamic).It addition, each imaging detector 102 comprises detector cell 114, at least some detector cell is installed to from stand 104 The removable detector carrier 116(extended such as, can be driven, by motor, the supporting arm or the actuator that move it).At some In embodiment, detector carrier 116 allows detector cell 114 to move toward and away from person under inspection 110 the most in a linear fashion. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, detector array 106 and 108 is installed in parallel above and below person under inspection 110, and Allow detector cell 114(generally level coupling on stand 104) it is being illustrated as vertical with supporting member 112 direction Linearly moving on (being indicated by arrow L).But, as described herein, other configuration and orientation are possible.It should be noted that Removable detector carrier 116 can allow detector cell 114 to move relative to supporting member 112 and/or stand 104 Any kind of supporting, in various embodiments, it allows detector cell 114 in a linear fashion toward and away from supporting member 112 move.

In various embodiments, each imaging detector 102 is less than regular systemic or universal imaging detector.Conventional imaging Detector can be large enough to the once wholly or largely imaging of width for patient body, and may have about 50 centimetres or Bigger diameter or more large scale.By contrast, each imaging detector 102 can comprise and is coupled to corresponding detector carrier 116 And there are one or more detector cells 114 of the size of 4 centimetres to 20 centimetres, and can be by cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) watt Sheet (tile) or module are formed.Such as, the big I of each detector cell 114 is 8x8 centimetre and by multiple CZT pixelations Module (not shown) forms.Such as, the big I of each module is 4x4 centimetre, and has 16x16=256 pixel.One In a little embodiments, each detector cell 114 comprises multiple module, the array of such as 17 modules of x.It is contemplated, however, that such as Comprise different configurations and the array size of the detector cell 114 with multirow module.

Should be understood that imaging detector 102 can be relative to each other different size and/or shape, the most square, rectangular Shape, circle or other shape.The practical field of view (FOV) of each imaging detector 102 can with the size of corresponding imaging detector and Shape is directly proportional.

Stand 104 can be formed as shown by its aperture 118(such as, opening or thorax).The most patient bed patient Workbench 120 is configured with support mechanism (not shown), with the multiple viewing location in aperture 118 one or more in and Support and carry person under inspection 110 relative to imaging detector 102.Alternatively, stand 104 can include that multiple stand section (is not shown Go out), each stand section can independently move supporting member 112 or one or more imaging device 102.

Stand 104 such as can also configure in other shapes, such as " C ", " H " and " L ", and permissible around person under inspection 110 It is rotatable.Such as, stand 104 is formed as closed loop or round shape thing, or it is the most close in imaging to be formed as permission Person under inspection 110, and are easy to load and unloading person under inspection 110 and reduce opening of fear of being enclosed in some persons under inspection 110 Arc or arc.

Additional imaging detector (not shown) may be positioned to be formed detector array row or around person under inspection 110 arc or Ring.By positioning multiple imaging detectors 102 relative to multiple positions of person under inspection 110, such as along imaging axis (example As, the head of person under inspection 110 is to direction of toe of last), can gather quickly the bigger specific view data of FOV.

Each imaging detector 102 has the radiation detection that the area-of-interest in person under inspection 110 or person under inspection guides Face.Radiation detection face is each to be covered by collimator 122 or has the collimator 122 being coupled in this.Class according to collimator 122 Type, can increase, reduce or relatively do not change the actual FOV for each imaging detector 102.As described in more detail herein , in certain embodiments, collimator 122 comprises at least some collimator thorax with not coaxial length.

In one embodiment, collimator 122 is many thoraxes collimator, such as parallel aperture collimator.However, alternatively, or standby Selection of land, can use the other type of collimator such as assembling or dissipating collimator.Other example for collimator 122 comprises The convergence of pin hole, parallel-beam, diverging fan beam, convergence or divergent cone beam, many thoraxes are assembled, many thoraxes assemble fan beam, Many thoraxes assemble conical beam, many thoraxes dissipate or other type of collimator.

Alternatively, many thoraxes collimator can be built into and the pixel matching of detector cell 114, in one embodiment, and inspection Surveying device unit 114 is CZT detector.But, other material can be used.Registration collimation is by the photon master being forced through a thorax Will be collected by a pixel can room for improvement resolution.Further, since at the adjacent edges of pixel or at two adjacent pictures Detector area between element can reduce sensitivity or reduce energy resolution or other performance degradation, therefore, and registration collimation Sensitivity and the energy response of pixelated detector can be improved.Make the collimator partition directly light lowered at the edge of pixel Son impinges upon the chance of these performance degradation positions, and does not reduce the photon overall probability by collimator.

Controller unit 130 can control patient table 120, imaging detector 102(can be configured to one or more arm), Stand 104 and/or collimator 122(move with coupled imaging detector 102 in various embodiments) movement and fixed Position.The scope moved during arranging before acquisition or gathering or between different images gathers, to keep such as pointing to or " taking aim at Accurate " given zone of person under inspection 110 or region or the actual FOV of each imaging detector 102 along whole person under inspection 110.Motion Can be as described in more detail herein in a plurality of directions simultaneously, combination concurrently or in order or compound movement.

Controller unit 130 can have stand motor controller 132, stage controller 134, detector controller 136, Pivot controller 138 and collimator handle 140.Controller 130,132,134,136,138,140 can by processing unit 150 certainly Dynamic order, by operator's Non-follow control or a combination thereof.Stand motor controller 132 can be moved into picture relative to person under inspection 110 Detector 102, such as, segmentation or subset move individually, or move to be fixed to one another relation simultaneously.Such as, implement at some In example, stage controller 132 imaging detector 102 and/or supporting member 112 can be made to move relative to person under inspection 110 or around Person under inspection 110 rotates, this can comprise less than or up to the motion of 180 degree (or bigger).

Stage controller 134 movable patient workbench 120, to position person under inspection relative to imaging detector 102 110.Patient table 120 such as can move in the direction of previous-next, in the direction entered-go out and in the direction of right-left. Detector controller 136 can control the movement of each imaging detector 102, to move together as group or to move individually, As described in more detail herein.Detector controller 136 also can control the shifting of imaging detector 102 in certain embodiments Dynamic, to move closer to and further from the surface of person under inspection 110, such as by controlling detector carrier 116 court in a linear fashion To or move (such as, sliding or telescopic moving) away from the translation of person under inspection 110.Alternatively, detector controller 136 can control The movement of detector carrier 116 is to allow the movement of detector array 106 or 108.Such as, detector controller 136 can control Transverse shifting by the detector carrier 116 of L arrow diagramming (and by be shown as seen in Figure 1 to the left and to the right).? In various embodiments, detector controller 136 can control detector carrier 116 or supporting member 112 at different horizontal directions Upper movement.

Pivot controller 138 can be controlled in pivoting or revolving of the end detector cell 114 of detector carrier 116 Transfer is dynamic and/or the pivoting or in rotary moving of detector carrier 116.Such as, one or more detector cells 114 or inspection Survey device carrier 116 can rotate around at least one axis to check person under inspection 110 from multiple angle directions, with such as at 3D SPECT Or 3D imaging operation pattern gathers 3D rendering data.Collimator handle 140 adjustable zoom collimator such as has adjustable The position of the collimator of band (or blade) or one or more adjustable pinhole.

It should be noted that one or more imaging detector 102 motion can from strictly the most different directions, And the motion in various embodiments, being usable in some direction of motion.Therefore, term " motion controller " can be used to refer to Show the collective designation for all motion controllers.It should be noted that combined various controller, such as, detector be can be combined and control Device 136 and pivot controller 138 are to provide described herein Bu Tong mobile.

Before gathering the image of a part of person under inspection 110 or person under inspection 110, can as being discussed more fully herein incite somebody to action Imaging detector 102, stand 104, patient table 120 and/or collimator 122 adjust such as to first or initial imaging position And image space subsequently.Imaging detector 102 can become a part of imaging of person under inspection 110 in each location.Alternatively, one Individual or multiple imaging detectors 102 can be unused for gathering data, such as the imaging inspection in detector array 106 and 108 end Surveying device 102, its (as illustrated in Figure 1) is in the advanced position away from person under inspection 110.Location can be manually completed by operator And/or be automatically performed, this can comprise and such as uses such as before current collection, such as, calculate tomography by such as X-ray (CT), the image information of other image that another image mode of MRI, X-ray, PET or ultrasound wave gathers.In some embodiments In, can by such as hybrid system (such as, SPECT/CT system) identical systems collection such as other image be used for position Additional information,.It addition, detector cell 114 can be configured to gather non-NM data, such as x-ray CT data.Implement at some In example, multi-mode imaging system such as can provide to allow to perform NM or SPECT imaging and the imaging of x-ray CT, and this can comprise Such as bimodal the most discussed in detail or gantry designs.

After location imaging detector 102, stand 104, patient table 120 and/or collimator 122, use one or Multiple imaging detectors 102 gather one or more images of such as three-dimensional (3D) SPECT image, and this can comprise use and reduce Or minimize the aggregate motion at interval between detector cell 114.In various embodiments, can be combined with rebuild by each become The view data gathered as detector 102 becomes combination picture or 3D rendering.

In one embodiment, moving detector array 106 and/or 108, stand 104, patient work after initial alignment At least one in platform 120 and/or collimator 122, this includes that (such as, the indivedual of one or more detector cell 114 move Horizontal and the movement that pivots of combination).Such as, can be in transverse shifting detector array 106 and/or 108 when pivoting At least one.Therefore, in various embodiments, multiple small detectors of such as detector cell 114 can be used for 3D imaging, Such as combination is moved or during frequency sweep detector cell 114 moving with other.

In various embodiments, data collecting system (DAS) 160 receives the telecommunications count produced by imaging detector 102 According to, and these data are converted into digital signal are used for subsequent treatment.But, in various embodiments, data signal is by imaging Detector 102 generates.In addition to processing unit 150, it is possible to provide equipment for reconstructing image 162(its can be processing means or computer) With data storage device 164.It should be noted that and have with data acquisition, motor control, data process and the one or more of image reconstruction The one or more functions closed can by can be located at imaging system 100 or near it, or may be remotely located hardware, software And/or completed by shared processing resources.Additionally, it is possible to provide user input apparatus 166 (such as, controls to receive user's input Order) and for showing the display 168 of image.

Fig. 2 illustrates that demonstration is only having single rotation or the detector 151 in shell 153 a little that pivots.Join at this In putting, equipped with smooth collimator 157(such as, there is the collimator of plane) detector 151(such as, CZT detector) To rotate around fixed pivot point 155 to avoid being illustrated as substantially flat patient with person under inspection 110() collision time, in standard Inevitable gap 161 is created between face and the person under inspection 110 of straight device 157.

In operation, and as shown for example in figure 3, the aggregate motion of detector cell 114 be used for before imaging, the phase Between and/or positioning detector unit 114 afterwards, or moving detector unit 114.Fig. 3 schematic depiction is all a patient Multiple detector cells 114 in protective cover 115.The coordination seen in Fig. 3 rotates (or pivoting) and up/down movement by often Individual detector cell 114 performs, to reduce or to minimize from the face of collimator 117 and the distance of patient 110.Such as, in detection When device unit 114 is placed on below patient table 120, removable optional cover 115.

More specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the combination of movement being usable in some embodiments concurrently performing positions Or reorientate one or more detector cell 114.It should be noted that and can concurrently or in order perform difference detection equally simultaneously The movement of device unit 114.As shown in Figure 3, a type of combination movement comprises in rotary moving (by R arrow diagramming, at some In embodiment, this can be or comprise the movement that pivots) and linear mobile or translation (by T arrow diagramming).Though it should be noted that So translation is illustrated as up and down in fig. 2, but may be provided in the translation in other transversely or vertically direction, the most to the left and to Right.

Additionally, it is possible to provide in rotary moving around different rotary axle or point, such as around bar or in rotary moving at pivot point. In fig. 2, rotation is around axle 170, and it can be the point of rotation or pivoting point.Such as, the orientation of axle 170, detector list are depended on Unit 114 can rotate at different directions.

It should be noted that state and the position thereof of the movement depending on detector cell 114, in detector cell 114 and detection Distance D is there is between the front 174 of the shell (not shown) of device unit 114.Such as, as Fig. 4 illustrates, it is possible to provide multiple detections Device unit 114, each have corresponding shell 150.If seeing, in addition in rotary moving, may also provide and (see as in Fig. 4 The scope (by M arrow diagramming) moved in the enclosure up and down) (and can define based on object to be scanned or set Put).Detector cell 114 the rightest in Fig. 4 illustrates the Move Mode according to an embodiment, this pattern allow shell 150 that This is to reduce in-between or minimum range carrys out adjacent positioned.If seeing, by translation and rotation detector unit 114, The angle of detector cell 114 can be changed with while keep little overlay area for shell 150, focus on inspection with the different visuals field Survey device unit 114.In certain embodiments, shell 150 is not provided.

It should be noted that and can use any applicable driving and control parts, such as, use one or more motor, it is provided that detection The various movements of device unit 114.Additionally or alternatively, proximity sense 152 or other patient safety device can be used to detect With contacting or imminent contact of patient.As known in the art, in certain embodiments, it is possible to provide proximity sense 152。

In various embodiments, it is possible to provide the collimator 160 with variable-length thorax is arranged, such as, as Fig. 5 illustrates. In this embodiment, the collimator thorax 166 of the centre portion 162 of collimator 160 has ratio in the lateral areas section 164 of collimator 160 The bigger length (and different length) of collimator thorax 166.Accordingly, due to the longer thorax length of centre portion 162, with side (because the distance from scanned object is relevant with resolution), definition when in section 164, the shorter length of collimator thorax 166 is compared Higher resolution imaging moiety or district.In the illustrated embodiment, only for ease of explaining and explanation, the top 168 of collimator It is shown as individually with bottom 170, and in various embodiments, such as the collimator thorax from the top to the bottom seen in Fig. 5 166 is single channel or part.

As in the illustrated embodiment it can be seen that the length of collimator thorax 166 is from the centre of centre portion 162, passed through Centre portion 162 reduces to the end of end segments 164.Therefore, in this embodiment, smooth bending or arch surface are formed 172.It should be noted that by change collimator thorax 166(such as adjacent collimator thorax 166) length be different amounts, face can be changed The curvature of 172.It should also be noted that some collimator thoraxes 166 can have an equal length, such as adjacent collimator thorax 166 or at collimation Collimator thorax 166 on the opposite side (from left to right) of device 160.It addition, it should also be noted that face in various embodiments is not limited to Smooth curved, but different configuration can be taked, such as other different non-planar configuration (such as, concave, convex in addition to other, many Limit shape).

In certain embodiments, can only along face 172 some part change curvature amount to change slope of a curve, or Different curvature amounts can be provided, unexpectedly cause to provide asymmetric face 172.Additionally, it is contemplated that other changes and modifications.For example, it is possible to not The length of collimator thorax 166 is changed the most in a stepwise manner so that do not provide even surface 172 with mode.

Collimator 170 can as image-generating unit 114 a part provide with define variable sensitivity as shown in Figure 6 and Resolution detector module 180.Therefore, controller 170 is used, it is possible to provide only allow to use a part of module 180 to focus on scanning Variable sensitivity and resolution, such as, the view data gathered in being used only in centre portion 162 performs to focus on scanning.? In one embodiment, can be that high-resolution brain imaging performs to use the focusing of part of module to scan.

Although it should be noted that the shell of module 180 is illustrated as the circle in circular cross-sectional area 181 in various embodiments (such as, circular cross-section), but according to the expectations or needs, shell can have difformity.It addition, assembly in module 180 can be changed Position, and also can provide different configuration or size.In the illustrated embodiment, detector material 184(such as CZT) with accurate Straight device 160 adjacent positioned and location after which, are seen as in Fig. 5.In one embodiment, detector material 184 can have Have and the pixellated structure (such as, 166 1 pixels of every collimator thorax) of collimator thorax 166 registration.Such as it known in the art, Electronic equipment 186 is coupled to detector material 184, to read signal to be processed.It addition, at collimator 160, detector material 184 and electronic equipment 186 surrounding provide shielding 188.Keeper 190 or other supporting (such as, support) provide in the enclosure, as The most described in more detail, shell can be taked keep the position of assembly wherein or allow the configuration of movement.

Expection modifications and variations.Such as, air can be provided to cool down by aperture (not shown), such as, see in such as Fig. 6 The shielding 188 on the top of module 180 in.The face along with the collimator 172 in central part office that it should be noted that is closer to being subject to Inspection person 110(and there is longer thorax), the resolution in the central part office of collimator 172 is improved further.Such as, the most right The some parts of face and some pivot locations in collimator, it is to avoid see in Fig. 2 (illustrating that conventional detector is arranged) Distance.This increase in resolution can help to more preferably picture quality.

Collimator 160 can be formed in any suitable manner.In one embodiment, as Fig. 7 illustrates, Duo Geguan 190(such as, lead pipe) as (a) place illustrate as be glued to together.Hereafter, dewaxing is such as used to fill pipe at (b) place 190.Then.Pipe 190 is cut to be formed at the flexure plane 192(at (c) place such as, along the bending of the side of body part at (c) place Face).Such as, wire saw or other cutting means can be used, cut size or the shape of pipe 190.Can perform to cut to be formed such as The pipe 190 with different length the most described in more detail.Hereafter, wax removing is removed at (d) place so that pipe 190 is formed now and is used for The different length thorax of collimator 194.Alternatively, collimator is attached to pixelated detector in registration mode so that between thorax At least some partition border between the pixels on position.

Manufacture process can comprise the multiple interlocking segment sheets of use, such as, this chunk sheet 200 or 202 as shown in Figure 8.Example As, block sheet can sizing (such as, length) and shaping to define variable thorax length collimator as described herein.This chunk sheet 200 or the 202 different sections that may correspond to collimator or parts so that form complementary cut 204a and 204b to allow block sheet The top seen in 200 or 202(such as Fig. 7 and bottom biock sheet) interlocking.

In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 9, often two modules can be provided by detector head.However, it is to be appreciated that can Additional module (and two modules illustrated illustrate that) is provided.Specifically, in single shell 210, it is possible to provide Two groups of CZT materials 184 and corresponding electronic equipment 186.In this embodiment, collimator 212 similarly is supplied with having different length The collimator thorax 214 of degree.As it can be seen, in this embodiment, it is possible to provide there are the different sections 216 of different curvature, bent Degree can determine based on mobile type to be provided in shell 210 and amount.Additionally, as it is to be appreciated that section 216 simply for ease of Describe and illustrate, and be not necessarily the discrete item being bonded together, but can be single-piece.Therefore, in this embodiment, accurate Straight device 212 has the flexure plane extended across two modules 220 defined by two groups of CZT materials 184 and corresponding electronic equipment 186 218.It is to be appreciated that according to the expectations or needs, additional module can be comprised by collimator 212.

It should be noted that each detector cell can include module array, such as, 2x2,2x3,2x4 module etc..In general, The pixel size of pixelation NM detector may be selected to be about 1.5 millimeters to 3 millimeters, and this can be attributed to physical constraint.? During wherein collimator is some embodiments of registration collimator, the width of collimator thorax is that pixel to pixel interval deducts partition Thickness.Then, by know needed for away from the operating distance of organ of interest minimum and maximum resolution and resolution with Compromise between sensitivity, the optimum length of the longest and the shortest optional collimator thorax.For can pivot and not with cover (or Near detector) collision, comprise the whole movable part of detector of sensor, collimator, electronic equipment and optional shielding with Draw circular cross-sectional area 181(centered by point (such as shown in such as Fig. 6,9,10 and 11) such as, column shielding or Cover) in the range of.When using the broader detector made by two or three side-by-side modules, can effectively fill limited circle Create more aspect than collimator (ratio between the longest and the shortest collimator pipe) simultaneously.

It should be noted that, it is possible to provide different configuration of collimator.Such as, in certain embodiments, it is possible to provide have and detector Spacing compares the collimator (such as, the spacing of collimator is the twice of spacing of detector) of em space.But, it is possible to provide its Its different relative spacing.The collimator with em space compared with detector spacings is used to allow to subtract the length of collimator Half, and correspondingly reduce the diameter of detector cell.It is therefoie, for example, less detector cell allows detector cell touching Hit or bump against prelocalization closer to person under inspection with adjacent detector.

Different configuration of collimator, the such as bending in two dimension or three-dimensional also can be provided.Such as, as at Fig. 6 and 9 figures Shown in Figure 10 and 11 Deng large icons, can change the collimator of thorax length in the longitudinal axis L offer transverse to detector 230 234(can be presented as collimator 172).In this embodiment, such as the vertical collimator thorax 236 seen in figures 9 and 10 There is identical thorax length, but be changed from side to opposite side thorax length.The axle 238 rotated can carry as illustrated in Figure 10 Supply so that flexure plane 240 is around axle 238 or rotation in parallel or waves.But, in other embodiments, axle 238 can be changed Become so that flexure plane 240 can rotate transverse to axle 238, such as, if axle 238 is to navigate to relatively from the side of detector 230 After side rather than as shown in the figure the past navigate to.

In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 12, collimator 250 has in the face of two dimension Zhong Cong center 254 bending 252.Such as, flexure plane 252 is hemispherical in this embodiment, to allow waving (such as, the most in two different directions Two orthogonal directions such as arrow diagramming).This embodiment such as can be used for the detector pivoted in both direction.

Expect that other changes.Such as, as shown in figures 13 and 14, collimator 260 can be provided with variable-length thorax 262.So And, in these embodiments, (wherein, like numeral represents similar portion to be different from embodiment shown in Fig. 5 and 8 respectively Point), it is provided that fan beam type collimator arrangement rather than parallel hole are arranged.As it can be seen, in this embodiment Thorax 262 is at an angle of towards the central area of detector.Additionally, it is to be appreciated that thorax 262 has different length to form flexure plane 264. It should be noted that and be effectively held in round 181(such as, limited circle) in while, at least for the some parts in the face of collimator With some positions that pivots, fan beam configuration also reduces the distance from the face of collimator to patient.This in resolution increases Add and can help to more preferably picture quality.It addition, as in fig. 14 it can be seen that, for wide detector, on the limit of detector On edge the length of pipe be similar in the minds of the length of pipe.Therefore, this configuration can provide across detector resolution evenly, And decrease the distance of patient simultaneously.

Therefore, various embodiments provide the different motion of detector cell and the different layouts of collimator, to allow inspection Survey device unit and be close together location, and position closer to object to be scanned than conventional system.

It should be noted that various embodiment can realize in different system configures.Such as, as shown in Figure 15, it is possible to provide comprise By wherein having the imaging system 270 of the stand 272 of thorax.Stand 272 may have been coupled to different imaging detector, such as, Imaging detector 102(is as shown in fig. 1).In this embodiment, person under inspection 110 is positioned on patient table 120, Huan Zhegong Station 120 comprises the supporting 276(of the mobile patient table 120 of permission as described herein such as, patient table or bed machine Structure).Such as, person under inspection 110 can be as mobile in the up/down seen in Figure 15 or left/right (along checking axis).Therefore, Person under inspection 110 can be moved through thorax 274, and by using one or more detectors described herein and/or collimation Device configures, and as the most described in more detail, it is carried out imaging.Correspondingly, in this embodiment, system is along checking that axis moves Person under inspection 110.

In another embodiment, such as, as shown in Figure 16, and imaging system 280, wherein, image checking can be provided Device 282(can be presented as the imaging detector 102 shown in Fig. 1) (implement at some around at least some of location of person under inspection 110 In example, partially or completely around the interval of person under inspection 110).For simple and clear and be easy to describe, detector 282 and person under inspection are only shown 110.But, it is provided that other system components the most one or more.In this embodiment can be as the most more Control or operations detector 282 as being described in detail.

Therefore, various embodiments can provide for being positioned relative to the difference of detector and/or person under inspection 110 and join Put.The movement of detector can be such as in a radial manner or rotatably.In one embodiment, as at Figure 17 and Tu Shown in the imaging system 290 of 18, uniformly position and be spaced multiple detector 292(such as, the imaging detector shown in Fig. 1 102), such as circumference along stand is evenly distributed along stand.Such as, detector 292 is shown as spaced apart 15 degree, but can provide it Its interval.But, it is possible to provide unevenly spaced and/or additional or less detector 102.As it can be seen, detector 292 Can inwardly and outwardly radially move, (locate in figure 18 so that detector 292 and person under inspection 110 adjacent positioned are used for carrying out imaging Illustrate in image space or state).Therefore, in this embodiment, the position of outermost neutralizes imaging in figure 18 in fig. 17 Detector 292 shown in position.As it is to be appreciated that depend on the size of person under inspection 110, shape etc., detector 292 is removable different Distance (such as, one or more detectors 292 move different distance).

In various embodiments, different mechanism or the assembly arranged and mobile imaging detector is provided can be used.One layout 300 shown in Figure 19 of diagram imaging detector configuration, and wherein, detector head 302 is arranged on the arm 304 comprising rail 306 One end, to allow to move radially, such as shown in Figure 17 and 18.Radial motion motor 308 can be used to control mobile.Detector Head 302 comprises in this embodiment can be many in the middle alignment of one or more row (illustrating single file in the illustrated embodiment) Individual image-forming module 310(is illustrated as CZT module).As it can be seen, collimator 312 can be provided and coupled to one or more Image-forming module 310.As described herein, it is possible to provide collimator 312.It addition, image-forming module 310 is coupled to allow in detector head In portion 302 image-forming module 310 rotate or the movement that pivots supporting 314(such as, bar).Such as, it is possible to provide such as frequency sweep With control and mobile image-forming module 310, across area-of-interest frequency sweep, (such as, rotate or pivot the motor of motor 314 definition The number of degrees).

Additionally, it is possible to provide different configurations.Such as, in single cover or single detector head, it is possible to provide multiple detectors Unit or module.It addition, one or more detectors can be fixed or mounted to patient table 120 or its supporting part (or In it).

It should be noted that multiple arms that supporting detector cell can be provided in difference configures.Such as, as shown in Figure 20, it is System 320 can be provided with stand 322, and stand 322 has and radially inwardly and outwardly extends and/or the most multiple from stand 292 Arm 324(such as, mobile-bearing as described herein).It should be noted that arm 324 in this embodiment around whole thorax 326 along circle Weekly interval is opened.It must also be noted that, it is possible to provide additional or less arm and the different interval between arm 324.Arm 324 can be as herein Described in the most removable, and display can be presented as in detector carrier 116(Fig. 1 in certain embodiments).It addition, it is each Arm 294 can support one or more detector cell or module (such as, the detector cell 114 of display in Fig. 1).Other change Comprise such as the arm 324 only provided along a part for the circumference of thorax 326 of diagram in the system 330 of Figure 21.Although it should be noted that arm 324 are illustrated along about 180 degree, but arm 294 can be greater than or less than 180 degree of offers along the more or less of thorax 326.Should note Meaning, for the configuration shown in Figure 21, the rotation more than 180 degree can be used to all carry in the prostrate of person under inspection 110 and supine position For imaging.Such as, in certain embodiments, it is provided that the rotation of about 210 degree.But, according to the expectations or needs, rotation can be more than Or less than 210 degree.

Additionally, it is possible to provide different configurations.Such as, it is possible to provide the design of linear-type, such as at entitled " Methods and Apparatus for Imaging with Detectors having Moving Detector Heads " the most undetermined Described in Figure 11 of U.S. patent application serial number 14/016943, during this application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Various embodiments also provide for method 340 as shown in Figure 22.Method 340 is included in offer detector array at 342 Row, have the CZT array of association electronic equipment the most as described herein.At 344, collimator is coupled to detector array. Such as, can use there is the collimator of different length thorax and/or flexure plane as described herein.But, in other embodiments, Plane collimators can be used.Method 340 is additionally contained at 346 the movement controlled in multiple directions with moving detector.Such as, As described herein, can concurrently translate and rotate or swing detector array.

The various embodiments part also based on health to be scanned and/or the shape of health, it is provided that be used for focusing on scanning, example As, it is provided that the adaptive scanning time of every body part.Such as, in body scan, the different scanning time can be used for different body Body portion, such as head, trunk, lower limb or the arm in addition to not.Can perform more generally, for one or more body parts Slow scan (thus gathers the most more substantial information), and can perform more short scan for other body part and (thus gather phase Information to more in a small amount).Therefore, scanning can be regarded as concentrating on and it performed the part of health of more slow scan.Therefore, pass through Spend more sweep time in those parts of the health requiring to be modified to picture, and take less time at significantly less critical health Part or body part (such as, less clinical interest) interested, can perform whole body with the time quantum reduced and sweep Retouch.Additionally, the information from other pattern (such as, CT, manual mode) can be used to improve sweep time further.Additionally or Alternatively, can be image one or more sections in one or more organs perform focus on scanning.Such as, from such as CT's Another mode can obtain the information about structures locating, and can perform to sweep more slowly in the part in the section of organ of interest Retouch, and in the part in the section outside organ of interest, perform more short scan.

Such as, in various embodiments, multiple detector cells of imaging system are (for example, with reference to Fig. 1 and relevant beg for Opinion) can be configured to gather SPECT data, wherein system also comprises the CT image-generating unit being configured to gather CT image information.Control Device (such as, pivot controller 138) can be used for controlling pivoting or rotating (and/or other moves) of detector cell, with At least one concentrates on first area or part (such as, area-of-interest), the wherein movement of detector cell to make detector unit Automatically the CT image information gathered by CT image-generating unit is used to control.

Such as, CT image information can be gathered, and it is rebuild to provide 3D rendering.Additionally or alternatively, can use Different modalities performs scouting (scout) scanning.Then, use 3D rendering, can perform " Target organ identification and location ", wherein, Mark Target organ (or multiple organ), and define the volume of interest (VOI) comprising Target organ (or multiple organ).Cause This, volume of interest may correspond to one or more organ or body part (such as, the lower limb in addition to other or kidney).Mark Volume can also reside in VOI(or multiple VOI) margin of safety around.One or more technology performance objective organ can be used The mark of (or multiple organ) or identification and location.Such as, available such as based on Target organ known general shape and close Degree and/or process software in the general shape of non-targeted organ of target proximity and the automated graphics of density.Show as another Example, can use semi-automatic image to process software, and wherein, user's input is used for pointing to Target organ.As the most another example, can adopt With Manual Logos (such as, by operator identification in the borderline position of VOI).In general, the position of the VOI of mark and Size is used for guiding scanner detector unit so that the major part scanning of at least one detector (such as, most of detectors) Time spends in checks and scans VOI.In certain embodiments, can spend on VOI and all or essentially all check the time.

Therefore, can concentrate on body part or VOI sweep time.In various embodiments, this concentration can not only allow Concentrate on the certain organs in health, and can be used to define respectively to scanned different body parts (such as, except other it Outer head, trunk or lower limb) respective angles wave (or rotate) scope (and/or step number or between the step of scope away from From).Such as, in based on the SPECT camera arrangement waving (or otherwise rotating) detector head, it is thus achieved that clinical useful The time of image depends strongly on the size of scanning device organ or body part.In general, the VOI of imaging can be equal to scanning The longitudinal extent of the length of head (if or use some heads, then be the multiple of head) extends.In a lateral direction, VOI is limited to the scope of identity part, or is only limitted to organ of interest (OOI), and whichever is less.At whole body SPECT In, patient can be moved relative to camera arrangement, and the 3D rendering of big section (or whole body) can be obtained.Move (such as, patient Via stage controller 134) time, can according to scanned body part control head wave or other range of rotation with And the configuration of the head around patient, in order to realize the quick scanning of current scanned area-of-interest.In some embodiments In, can be limited to sweep time guarantee the minima of suitable clinical image quality or gather suitable background image-forming information.Now Between can be by the patterns affect of organ, each have different volumes and require that different angles is waved or rotating range.By control Waving or rotating of head processed scans and at body interested to perform to increase at one or more volume of interest Body portion performs to reduce scanning, and total scanning time can be shortened according to body shape and optimize.As the most in this article other Side's instruction, the shape of health also can be from other mode of such as CT, the always letter of self figure modelling (contouring) device Breath, uses and manually gets rid of learning model, or by providing the different device of the information about body shape or technology to determine.

Figure 23-25 diagram provides the example embodiment of the system for focusing on scanning.Figure 23 illustrates according to various embodiments Imaging system 2300.Imaging system 2300 is used for as patient 2302 imaging.It may be noted that can be other in an alternative embodiment Object imaging.Imaging system 2300 comprises the bed 2304 being configured to support and position patient 2302, and wherein bed is in bed motion direction 2306 can be hinged.Imaging system 2300 also comprises the stand 2320 wherein comprising detector 2322.Detector 2322 can be configured to (for example, with reference to Fig. 1 and relevant discussion) is rotated with stand 2320 and/or independent of stand 2320.Imaging system 2300 is also wrapped Containing being configured to obtain the image-generating unit 2330 of the object information of scanned object (such as, patient 2302).Enforcement in diagram In example, imaging system 2330 is configured to CT scan unit.As discussed in this article, image-generating unit 2330(such as, CT scan list Unit) can be used to identify the part of the patient 2302 for focusing on scanning.

Figure 24 illustrates the example focusing on scanning.In fig. 24, describe to comprise sensing unit 2410, processing unit 2420 and control The imaging system 2400 of device 2430 processed.Imaging system 2400 comprises the multiple detector cells 2440 for sweep object 2402. Detector cell 2440 can rotate around the respective center of detector cell, and also can put down in a linear fashion on direction 2404 Move.Alternatively, in various embodiments, detector cell 2440 radially-inwardly can translate to object to be scanned rather than such as Translate in a linear fashion shown in Figure 24.Can be configured to the sensing unit 2410 of CT scan unit (such as, image-generating unit 2330) It is configured to obtain the object information of the object 2402 corresponding to wanting imaging.Object information such as can describe, describe or with other side Formula corresponds to shape and/or the internal structure of object 2402.Processing unit 2420 is operably connected to sensing unit 2410, and Object information is obtained from sensing unit 2410.In various embodiments, processing unit 2420 is configured to, based on object information, determine For more focusing at least one first area or the part of the object of scanning, and determine object at least one second area or Part, at least one of which Part I is identified relative at least one Part II more focuses on scanning.

As used herein, can be interpreted as comprising by focusing on scanning and less focus on for execution or non-focusing scanning Other scope compare, for object given range gather the most more substantial information.Such as, with for similarly sized The scanning of two scopes is compared, and can spend the more substantial time for the focusing scanning collection information of the first scope.Sweep for focusing on The first scope retouched may correspond to volume of interest, and wherein the second scope is corresponding to volume interested.Such as, first Scope can comprise the volume of interest that selects based on clinical interest or the determine one or more sides together with volume of interest Buffer volumes.As used herein, can be interpreted as volume of interest clinical interest, Qi Zhonggeng are belonged to for application-specific Interested belong to more less clinical interest (such as, the skeleton of lower limb can be designated volume of interest and be used for bone scan, its Middle the muscle of lower limb is designated more less volume of interest).In certain embodiments, it is thus achieved that the scanning from volume of interest is believed Breath, in order to a part of imaging of the health for analyzing or diagnose, and can identify and scan one or more body interested Long-pending, to provide the more natural outward appearance for image as example, it is provided that for the environment of image, it is provided that with the improvement of additional image Or more easily registrate and/or provide navigation that is lighter in image or that improve.Additionally or alternatively, can be based on such as absorbing And/or the characteristic of decay, determine or identify the region for focusing on scanning or part.Such as, can will have the district of bigger decay Territory is chosen as the first area for focusing on scanning, and can be chosen as the zones of different with less decay for less focusing on The second area of scanning.As another example, can be by (such as, radiopharmaceutic to using for imaging with lower picked-up Picked-up) regional choice that is characterized is the first area for focusing on scanning, and can be selected by the zones of different of higher picked-up It is selected as the second area for less focusing on scanning.Such as, in brain scans, skull (such as, cortex) and the striatum (degree of depth Brain structure) clinical interest can be belonged to.But, on striatum, can perform more to focus on scanning, and owing to skull is more shallow, because of This, can perform less to focus on scanning on skull.

In the example that the embodiment of diagram provides in by Figure 24, comprise portion interested for focusing on the first scope of scanning Point (such as, for the part of clinical interest for given application), and the second scope is defined (example by part interested As, for the less clinical interest of given application).Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, processing unit 2420 is configured to based on right Image information, determines at least one part interested of object 2402 and at least one portion interested of object 2402 Point.Such as, in the illustrated embodiment, object 2402 comprises volume of interest 2406 and district 2408 interested.Example As, object 2402 can be the trunk of patient, and volume of interest 2406 can comprise the skeleton 2407 of trunk, and more less feels Volume of interest 2408 can be located at outside the profile of skeleton 2407.The information of self-inductance measurement unit 2410 can be used, determine body interested Long-pending 2406(such as, skeleton 2407) (such as, use from CT or other modality scans information with mark and location skeleton).Though So select or determine volume 2406 or 2408 the most in the illustrated embodiment based on clinical interest, but in other embodiments, can be standby Selection of land or be based additionally on such as to decay and/or absorb and select volume 2406 and 2408.

The controller 2430 described is configured to control the in rotary moving of detector 2440.Such as, each detector 2440 can With rotating from primary importance to the second position with the scope in the visual field of sweep rate definition object 2402.Embodiment in diagram In, controller 2430 is configured to rotate at least one detector from primary importance to the second position with uneven sweep rate 2440.In fig. 24, detector 2440 is configured to rotate independent of stand.Detector 2440 can rotate around pivoting point, wave or Pivot.In the illustrated embodiment, each detector 2440 is configured to the central rotation around specific detectors.Controller 2430 can receive from processing unit 2420, describe the information of one or more volume of interest, and control uneven frequency sweep Speed with during the rotation from primary importance to the second position change so that with for more less volume of interest 2408 phase Ratio, obtains more substantial scanning information for volume of interest 2406.Such as, during checking volume of interest 2406, frequency sweep Speed can be slower, and check more less during volume of interest 2408 the most faster.

Although can therefore control each detector 2440(or the fraction of detector 2440 sum in various embodiments), But for the sake of explanation clearly, the rotation of two detectors will be only discussed in conjunction with Figure 24.See as in Figure 24, the first detector 2450 can rotate to the second position 2454 from primary importance 2452.Define by and comprise the interested of volume of interest 2406 Sweep limits 2456.More less range of interest 2458 is positioned at the either side of range of interest 2456.In range of interest During the scanning of 2456, sweep rate can change over slower, in order to the quantity of information gathered from more less range of interest 2458 Comparing, gather relatively great amount of information (such as, photon counting) for concern scope 2456, more less range of interest is to offer The useful image of volume of interest 2406 is the most useful.

Similarly, as shown in Figure 24, the second detector 2460 can rotate to the second position 2464 from primary importance 2462. The sweep limits 2466 interested defined by and comprise volume of interest 2406.More less range of interest 2468 is positioned at The either side of range of interest 2466.Additionally, during the scanning of range of interest 2466, sweep rate can change over slower, Compared with the quantity of information gathered from more less range of interest 2458, to gather relatively great amount of for range of interest 2466 Information.Therefore, it is possible to provide focus on scanning for for the relatively great amount of information of range of interest and volume acquisition, and for more Scope interested lesser amount of information relative with volume acquisition, thus while being provided with by picture quality, more has Effect ground uses sweep time and/or reduces sweep time.It may be noted that, in certain embodiments, rotatable or control one or many Individual detector, is served only for for range of interest and volume acquisition information, and does not gather the information of other scope or volume.Also It may be noted that, the different VOI that different detector concentrates in health can be controlled.

Figure 25 diagram has the illustrative case of more than one volume of interest.In fig. 25, describe to be used for performing lower limb 2502 Focus on scanning imaging system 2500.In various embodiments, organ or the body part of other group can additionally or alternative Be designated the volume of interest for focusing on scanning.Imaging system 2500 can generally be similar to described herein at various aspects Imaging system, such as imaging system 2300 and imaging system 2400.Due to the shape of lower limb 2502, at location individual detector Time, one or more detectors can be used to gather the scanning of two legs or image-forming information, and one or more detectors can be used to adopt Collect the information of one leg, and one or more detector can leave unused and not gather information.In the illustrated embodiment, first Detector 2510 leaves unused, and the second detector 2520 gathers the information of one leg, and the 3rd detector 2530 gathers two legs Information.

In the illustrated embodiment, volume of interest 2504 comprises the skeleton of lower limb 2502.Second detector 2520 can be from One position 2522 rotates to the second position 2524.The sweep limits interested defined by and comprise volume of interest 2506 2526.More less range of interest 2528 is positioned at the either side of range of interest 2526.Sweep time in range of interest 2526 Between, sweep rate can change over slower, in order to compared with more less range of interest 2528, for range of interest 2526 Gather relatively great amount of information.

3rd detector 2530 can rotate to the second position 2534 from primary importance 2532.Define by and comprise one First sweep limits 2536 interested of the skeleton of lower limb, and definition by and comprise another one leg skeleton interested the Two sweep limitss 2538.Sweep limits 2540 interested arranges the left side of the first sweep limits interested, to sense The right side of interest the second sweep limits, and the first sweep limits 2536 interested and the second sweep limits 2538 interested it Between.Such as, by providing lower sweep rate during rotating in range of interest 2536,2538, and interested Scope 2540 provides faster sweep rate during rotating, and can be controlled in the frequency sweep speed of the 3rd detector 2530 in the embodiment of diagram Rate, to provide the focusing of volume of interest 2504 to scan.Therefore, and compared with more less volume of interest, can be emerging for sense Interest volume 2504 gathers the most more substantial information, is thus efficiently used sweep time.As shown in Figure 25, different detectors (such as, the second detector 2520 and the 3rd detector 2530) can control by different way, and/or covers the person under inspection being imaged Different piece.Additionally, in certain embodiments, can ignore or do not collect from the scope between two legs information (such as, Comprise air but without bodily tissue or the scope of little bodily tissue), be simultaneously from by bodily tissue is interested The information of scope can such as be used for artifact correction and/or provide low-resolution image, thus provides the improvement of other image to lead Boat and/or registration.

In certain embodiments, can use and be only from a part (such as, the high-resolution of one or more detector cell Part) information perform to focus on scanning, and in other embodiments, the available information from whole detector cell.? In some embodiments, the information (example that different weight arrives the self-supporting different piece determining detector cell can be given during rebuilding As, give the higher weight of information of the higher resolution portion collection using detector cell).Additionally, can be based on detector list The part of unit controls to wave, and pivots or the sweep rate of rotation detector unit.Such as, at the high-resolution of detector cell Rate part checks the part of the outer patient of VOI simultaneously, and height can be used to pivot or sweep rate, and at the height of detector cell Definition portion scanning VOI simultaneously, can use and pivot more slowly or sweep rate.Additionally, can be that different detector is with difference Mode controls at its sweep rate rotating specific detectors and/or rotating range.

As indicated herein, in certain embodiments, can perform to focus on scanning to believe just for volume of interest collection Breath.But, in other embodiments, can be as combined shown in Figure 24 and 25, can be for additional volume acquisition information.It may be noted that, though So clinic may call for or expect the reconstruction 3D rendering of VOI, but the imaging moiety of the outer patient of VOI can also be favourable or desirable. Such as, rebuild artifact and can be caused by the radiation source only checked by some detector cells outside VOI and other detector is not checked, This can cause inconsistent in process of reconstruction.But, although VOI is rebuild, it is desirable to high-resolution and low noise, but outside VOI The reconstruction in source can be carried out with low image quality (that is, having more strong noise and/or more low resolution), in order to avoids and/or school Positive artifact.Additionally, use the district outside image display VOI can provide the more natural outward appearance of image, and/or provide the ring for image Border, and/or permission improves or registration (such as, with CT image) and/or offer more easily is lighter or improvement in image Navigation.

It may be noted that, one or more technology can be used, change sweep rate.As an example, can keep in every visual field Uniformly or while Time constant, change sweep rate by non-homogeneous angular samples and (such as, change the rotatable speed rotated Degree or speed).As another example, can keep uniformly or while constant angle sampling, during by every visual field non-homogeneous Between change sweep rate.As another example, non-homogeneous angular samples can combine with the non-uniform temporal in every visual field.Also can note Meaning, in various embodiments, the most lasting period in rotary moving (such as, entirely without suspending or interrupting in rotation, or Rotation suspends with or without essence), or alternatively, (such as, one or more detector cells during " static state is emphasized " gathers In a series of discrete step rotate, wherein from one step to adjacent step rotate between without spin period gather letter Breath), sweep rate can be changed.Further, in various embodiments, can changing or through by angle between step Sum in the angle step of given range offer defines step.

It may be noted that, in certain embodiments, can only scan relatively small body part (such as, only one leg rather than such as Two legs shown in Figure 25).For only scanning one leg, can correspondingly adjust location and the sweep limits of detector.In these feelings Under condition, some detector cells can leave unused during scanning alternatively.Similarly, as long as in a part for scanning trunk, such as, Shoulder, or during as another example only one arm, can correspondingly adjust location and the sweep limits of detector, and some inspections Survey device to leave unused alternatively during scanning.

Figure 26 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes the example of sweep rate.In fig. 26, curve 2600 along corresponding to time Between trunnion axis 2602 and describe detector corresponding to the frequency sweep angle of detector or rotation or the vertical axis 2604 that pivots Rotation.As seen in fig. 26, detector is rotated through the second scope 2620 to the 3rd scope from the first scope 2610 2630.Second scope 2620 corresponding to range of interest (such as, sweep limits 2466 interested) or the scope that focuses on, and first Scope 2610 and the 3rd scope 2630 are corresponding to scope (scope 2468 such as, interested) interested. Figure 26 provides the example that " static state is emphasized " gathers, and wherein detector rotates at a series of discrete step in information gathering period. In the embodiment described, frequency sweep step 2606 or the angular displacement between each collection step are to the first scope 2610, second Scope 2620 and the 3rd scope 2630 keep identical.But, the time of staying or the time in the collection information cost of given step change Become.In the illustrated embodiment, the time of staying 2607 for the first scope 2610 and the 3rd scope 2630 is about the same.For The time of staying 2608 of the second scope 2620 is more longer than the time of staying 2607.Therefore, than other scope during range of interest Gather information for given step to take more time.As example rather than restriction, for one or many of range of interest The time of staying of individual step can exceed the time of staying about 2 for other scope, 3,5 equimultiples.The change of the optional time of staying Change during range of interest, provide the information gathering of abundance, to provide clinical useful imaging results, simultaneously at other model Enclose the information that period provides such as sufficient, with provide suitable artifact correction and/or with the image using other mode to obtain Registration.Figure 26 uses the uniform of every view or Time constant, it is provided that the example of non-homogeneous angular samples.It may be noted that, sweep limits Can be divided into alternatively different scanning rates more or less than three subranges.Such as, the five of order below can be used The sequence of individual subrange: be exceedingly fast；Hurry up；Slowly；Hurry up；It is exceedingly fast.Speed or sweep rate owing to using in previously example are around sequence Center subrange (such as, the 3rd subrange of five subranges in five sequences) in row is symmetrical, therefore, and previous example Can be regarded as symmetric form；But, in other embodiments, asymmetric division or the sequencing of subrange can be used.

Figure 27 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.In figure 27, curve 2700 is along correspondence In the trunnion axis 2702 of time with corresponding to the frequency sweep angle of detector or rotation or the vertical axis 2704 pivoted, describe inspection Survey the rotation of device.As seen in figure 27, detector is rotated through the second scope 2720 to the 3rd scope from the first scope 2710 2730.Second scope 2720 is corresponding to range of interest or the scope of focusing, and the first scope 2710 and the 3rd scope 2730 are right The scope that Ying Yugeng is interested.As Figure 26, Figure 27 provides the example that " static state is emphasized " gathers, and wherein detector is at letter Breath rotates at a series of discrete step during gathering.In the embodiment described, the frequency sweep rank between each collection step Jump or angle displacement changes, gather, as changed given step, the time that information spends.Frequency sweep rank for the description of the first scope Jump 2705 about the same with the frequency sweep step 2705 for the 3rd scope 2730.But, for the frequency sweep rank of the second scope 2720 Jump 2706 less than frequency sweep step 2705, cause relative to other scope, for the second scope on the basis of the angle often comprised The larger number of the collection step of 2720.Therefore, and compared with other scope, corresponding to the second scope shown in Figure 27 During the range of interest of 2720, carry out the most greater amount of collection step.It is similar to combine the example that Figure 26 discusses, uses About the same in the description time of staying 2707 of the first scope 2710 and the 3rd scope 2730.Stop for the second scope 2720 Time 2708 is more longer than the time of staying 2707.Therefore, believe for given step collection than other scope during range of interest Breath takes more time.Alternatively, in various embodiments, the time of staying can keep constant, and institute in frequency sweep step such as Figure 27 Change as showing.Figure 27 provides showing of the non-homogeneous angular samples combining the non-homogeneous of every view or non-constant time and utilize Example.

Figure 28 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate, which uses and persistently scan.This is not Being same as Figure 26-27, in these figures, detector remains stationary as some time periods (as by horizontal section instruction in figure), wherein Data acquisition mainly in Figure 26-27 detector motionless time perform.In Figure 28, curve 2800 is along trunnion axis in respect of time 2802 and describe the rotation of detector corresponding to the frequency sweep angle of detector or rotation or the vertical axis 2804 that pivots.As Seeing in Figure 28, detector is rotated through the first scope the 2810, second scope 2820 and the 3rd scope 2830.Second scope 2820 correspond to range of interest or the scope of focusing, and the first scope 2810 and the 3rd scope 2830 are corresponding to more less feeling emerging The scope of interest.As seen in Figure 28, the slope in range of interest (corresponding to the second scope 2820) period is less than at it Slope during its scope, thus rotation slower during being depicted in range of interest and the information of increase.In Figure 28, Although depicting slope at the transition point between scope to change, but substantially continuously carry out the rotation of detector.

Figure 28 also comprises the relatively high slope to rotate or the Part I 2806 of speed.In the illustrated embodiment, A part 2806 is corresponding to the performance of scout scan.During the scout scan described, sweep rate or rotary speed are substantially Identical to all scopes, and do not perform frequency sweep focusing (such as, slow down during range of interest sweep rate).But, inspection The rotation subsequently surveying device is controlled, to provide the focusing during the second scope 2820.As seen in Figure 28, detector With relatively high rate during the part 2812,2814 of the first scope 2810 and during the part 2832,2834 of the 3rd scope Rotate.But, detector rotates with relatively low speed during the part 2822,2824 of the second scope 2820.Can be by part 2822,2824 it is interpreted as providing focusing frequency sweep.As shown in Figure 28, during range of interest than other scope for given angle Degree scope gathers information and takes more time.May select the change of slope between scope to fill to provide during range of interest The information gathering of foot, to provide clinical useful imaging results, provides such as sufficient information during other scope simultaneously, with Suitable artifact correction and/or the registration with the image using other mode to obtain are provided.As shown in Figure 28, in various enforcements In example, the plural number rotation by scope can be performed during image-forming information collection.In the corresponding angle position for different rotary The information that (such as, the appointment scope of angle position) collects can case (binned) be used for rebuilding together.Due at detector Gather data time at the volley, therefore, it can the directional correlation that the photon allowing each collection arrives from it with its most probable Mode store data.If drying method can be used.As an example, in certain embodiments, list mode can be used, wherein The parameter of each photon detected is saved together with instruction data of the orientation of detector when photon detection.Such as, may be used Together with the reading of angular encoder is preserved with photonic data, or it is dispersed in data set.As another example, in various realities Execute and example can use timing list mode.In timing list mode, each photon can associate with a time stamp so that can make inspection The association in time surveyed is to each photon detected.Similarly, the angle orientation of detector can be with association in time so that can be to often The orientation of detector is decoded by the time of individual photon detection.It may be noted that, stand and/or bed motion can be lasting, and platform The position of frame and/or bed can similarly with the Photon Correlation detected.As the most another example, vanning (re-again can be used Binning) method.In packing method again, sweep limits is divided into little section or " visual field ".Such as, first visual field May be defined as the angle orientation alpha at scope A0≤α≤A1；Definable when α is in the scope of A1≤α≤A2 Two visuals field；And so on.It may be noted that, the return of detector wave the photon detected can again case with at forward direction Wave and detect in photon same field of view and (be different from the list mode of chronological record event usually being detected).Weight New vanning can be carried out in real time, therefore reduces data file size and memory space.Alternately, or additionally, vanning can be from row again Table schema file is carried out.In certain embodiments, vanning can be from list mode again, and off line and use different visuals field collection are held OK.Additionally, the visual field again cased can be used to perform reconstruction.Such as, OSEM(order subset expectation maximization can be used) calculate Method.At entitled " the Apparatus and Methods for Processing Imaging Data that on March 2nd, 2010 is issued From Mulitple Detectors " U.S. Patent number 7671331 in provide use the additional of event-oriented reconstruction beg for Opinion, during its content is incorporated by reference in its entirety,.

Figure 29 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.In Figure 29, curve 2900 is along correspondence In the trunnion axis 2902 of time and describe inspection corresponding to the frequency sweep angle of detector or rotation or the vertical axis 2904 that pivots Survey the rotation of device.As seen in Figure 29, detector is rotated through the first scope the 2910, second scope 2920 and the 3rd scope 2930.Second scope 2920 is corresponding to range of interest or the scope of focusing, and the first scope 2910 and the 3rd scope 2930 are right The scope that Ying Yugeng is interested.As seen in Figure 29, in range of interest (corresponding to the second scope 2920) period Slope be typically smaller than slope during other scope, thus rotation slower during being depicted in range of interest and increase Information.In Figure 29, the change of slope is depicted as gradually and typically lasting for changing along the transformation part between scope.Second Scope 2920(corresponds to range of interest) the lower slope of scope extend beyond the second scope 2920 and enter other model In enclosing.The extension of lower slope and the lasting change of slope described in Figure 29 provide the smooth transition between rotary speed And around range of interest the margin of safety of relatively high information gathering amount.

As seen in Figure 29, detector is during the part 2912 of the first scope 2910 and in the 3rd scope 2930 Rotate with relatively high rate during part 2932.But, detector during the part 2922 of the second scope 2920 with relatively low Speed rotates.Can be interpreted as part 2922 providing and focus on frequency sweep.As shown in Figure 29, than other model during range of interest Enclose and take more time for given angle scope collection information.

It may be noted that, in various embodiments, data can be launched in conjunction with CT scan and/or scouting, perform continuous collecting.And And, the data gathered during continuous collecting can be cased in the visual field again, the most each visual field is included in limited correspondence The data gathered in angular range.Additionally, the data gathered during continuous collecting can be saved together (comprising with list mode Event data and detector directional data), and use event-oriented algorithm for reconstructing to rebuild.

Figure 30 diagram, according to various embodiments, changes another example of sweep rate.The embodiment described in Figure 30 is at certain A little general aspects are similar to Figure 29；But, in fig. 30, depict two range of interest.Two range of interest such as may be used Skeleton (for example, with reference to Figure 25 and relevant discussion) corresponding to two legs.In fig. 30, curve 3000 is along in respect of time Trunnion axis 3002 and describe the rotation of detector corresponding to the frequency sweep angle of detector or rotation or the vertical axis 3004 that pivots Turn.As seen in fig. 30, detector is rotated through first scope the 3010, second scope the 3020, the 3rd scope the 3030, the 4th Scope 3040 and the 5th scope 3050.Second scope 3020 and the 4th scope 3040 are corresponding to range of interest or the model of focusing Enclose, and the first scope the 3010, the 3rd scope 3030 and the 3rd scope 3050 are corresponding to scope interested.As at Figure 30 In see, the slope in range of interest (corresponding to the second scope 3020 and the 4th scope 3040) period is typically smaller than at it Slope during its scope, thus rotation slower during being depicted in range of interest and the information of increase.As at Figure 30 In see, detector during the part 3012 of the first scope 3010, during the part 3032 of the 3rd scope 3030 and Rotate with relatively high rate during the part 3052 of the 5th scope 3050.But, detector is in the part of the second scope 3020 3022 and the 4th scope 3040 part 3042 during rotate with relatively low speed.Part 3022 and part 3042 can be interpreted as There is provided and focus on frequency sweep.As shown in Figure 30, during range of interest, information is gathered than other scope for given angle scope Take more time.May correspond to two different organ of interest of range of interest can (but not limit as an example In) it is limb, or be kidney as another example.

Figure 31 provides according to various embodiments, for becoming for object (such as, human patients or a part for animal patient) The flow chart of the method 3100 of picture.Method 3100 such as can use various embodiments discussed herein (such as, system and/or Method) structure or aspect or be executed by.In various embodiments, negligible or add some step, some step be can be combined Suddenly, some step can be performed simultaneously, can concurrently perform some step, some step can be split into multiple step, can be different Order performs some step, or can iteratively re-execute some step or series of steps.In various embodiments, The part of method 3100, aspect and/or change can act as guiding hardware to perform one or more operations specifically described herein One or more algorithms.

At 3102, it is positioned to the object of imaging.Object can be such as human patients.Patient can be placed in bed, Bed can pass through stand (such as, comprising SPECT detector or the stand of detector cell of plural number) and advance for the imaging of patient. Bed also may proceed to position patient for using the different modalities of such as CT to be scanned.It may be noted that, various in image acquisition During part, the position of patient can be changed.Such as, trouble can be positioned in scout scan with subsequently by different way during image scanning Person, and/or patient's (such as, advancing through thorax) can be positioned by different way to allow the length along patient to scan difference portion Point.

At 3104, it is thus achieved that corresponding to wanting the object information of the object (such as, patient) of imaging.In various embodiments, Object information comprises description, describes or otherwise corresponding to the body shape of patient being imaged and internal structure, it is sufficient to Allow to identify the information of one or more volume of interest.Object information can be obtained by image-generating unit or other device, and carries It is fed to and identifies the processing unit of the position of one or more volume of interest.It may be noted that, although various technology can be used to obtain Object information, but below in conjunction with step 3106,3108 and 3110, the example using scout scan is discussed.

At 3106, perform scout scan or collection.Scout scan such as can perform as CT scan.In other embodiments In, scout scan or collection can be performed by gathering transmitting information.Scout scan is typically with high relative velocity with low resolution Rate performs.In certain embodiments, the information from scout scan can be without providing sufficient dividing into conventional and/or diagnosing image Resolution or quality.

At 3108, it is reconstituted in the information obtained during the scout scan at 3106.Rebuild and may result in run-of-the-mill difference Image, but there is enough information to identify one or more volume of interest for image scanning subsequently.Volume of interest example As one or more Target organ can be comprised.

At 3110, mark has been used for focusing on the target of scanning.As used herein, scanning can be focused on by being used for Object understanding is a part for the object being imaged, for it, relative at least one other parts of object, it is desirable to relatively large The scanning information of amount.Such as, for liver can be designated use in conjunction with the diagnosis relevant with liver or the scanning analyzing use In focusing on the target scanned, and other organ (such as, lung, kidney, intestinal or the like) can be designated for focusing on scanning Target.Subsequently, can perform to focus on scanning, and compared with other organ, spend the time of greater proportion collect corresponding to The information of liver, to provide compared with other organ, for greater amount and/or the higher-quality image information of liver, thus Reducing while may not requiring the time spent on the body part of its detailed image information, improving picture quality, by This provides efficient sweep time.In various embodiments, Target organ (or multiple organ) can be identified, and can by one or Multiple processing units and/or one or more controller determine suitable sweep parameter (such as, the location of detector, detector The scope rotating or pivoting, rotating or sweep rate during the different piece that pivots at detector).Can note Meaning, the volume of the mark for focusing on scanning can also reside in the margin of safety around Target organ or multiple organ.At some In embodiment, use the 3D rendering generated at 3108, automated graphics can be used to process software, such as based on mesh by processing unit The mark known general shape of organ and density and/or in the general shape of non-targeted organ of target proximity and density, mark automatically Know Target organ.Additionally or alternatively, can use to be manually entered in semi-automatic or manual approach and (such as, operator mark Know in the borderline position of VOI).In some cases, can be the automatic, semi-automatic of VOI or use patient in manually determining Collection of illustrative plates (such as, corresponding to the typical patient collection of illustrative plates of standard human patient).In various embodiments, patient's collection of illustrative plates can be accommodated or Otherwise corresponding to patient class's group or subgroup (such as, in addition to other, can be by body weight, height and/or sex to patient Collection of illustrative plates is finely divided).

At 3112, perform image scanning.In certain embodiments, the plural number that the thorax of stand is arranged around it is usable in SPECT detector unit performs image scanning, and wherein plural number detector cell is positioned at object (such as, the patient wanting imaging A part) near surface.In certain embodiments, can vertical translation detector cell (such as, relative to by patient bed definition Horizontal plane), and other embodiments can radial translation detector cell detector cell to be positioned at object to be scanned Near.In various embodiments, the rotation of detector cell is controlled, in order at volume of interest (such as, Target organ) in inspection Sweep time (with the quantity of information gathered) is increased time in the visual field of survey device unit, and at volume of interest not at detector cell The visual field in time reduce sweep time.Therefore, it can rotate one or more detector cells to provide with variable sweep rate Focus on scanning.Correspondingly, in various embodiments, perform image scanning can comprise with sweep rate from primary importance to second Put rotate at least one detector cell thus definition want the scope in the visual field of object of imaging with acquisition scans information, and During rotation from primary importance to the second position, change sweep rate, in order to for interested at least one Part is compared, and at least one part for objects obtains greater amount scanning information.It may be noted that, rotate sustainable or with Discrete step performs.In various embodiments, can be based on the position in the volume along the length of patient and/or scanned patient Put, it is provided that focus on scanning.

Such as, at 3114, the body part a length of interested along the patient in experience body scan provides increase Time (slower frequency sweep and the information gathering of increase).In an illustrative case, can perform body scan, wherein, doctor expects Relative to other parts, it is modified to the imaging of the trunk of patient.It is therefoie, for example, relative to the other parts of health, in scanning Trunk is simultaneously, it is possible to provide slower sweep rate.

As another example, at 3116, the time increased is provided (to sweep more slowly for the Target organ in the volume that is imaged Frequency and the information gathering increased).Such as, the skeleton of lower limb can be the Target organ in illustrative case.In this case, with bone Compare when bone is not in the visual field of detector, slower frequency sweep can be provided when skeleton is in the visual field of detector for detector cell Speed.It may be noted that, when mobile patient, detector cell can independently be moved into and remove, so that detector is positioned at patient's body (such as, health formative method is used) near body.

At 3118, rebuild image.It is usable in the information reconstruction image obtained during image scanning.In some embodiments In, the information from other scanning (such as, scout scan or other modality scans) can be used.Can use for volume of interest (such as, Target organ) with higher resolution and/or the information of more low noise level, can use for other of object simultaneously Part with more low resolution and/or the information of more high noise level.More low resolution and/or more high noise level information can examples Remove as combined artifact and/or use with the registration of other image, or as another example, be used for providing be included in interested The image of the tissue around volume.It may be noted that, in various embodiments, in addition to other, can use and such as case or gate (gating) imaging technique.

As shown in this article (for example, with reference to Fig. 6-14, and relevant discussion), collimation can be used in conjunction with detector cell Device.In various embodiments, porous collimator can be used (such as, to comprise the collimation in the more than one hole of every pixel of detector Device).Such as, in certain embodiments, the available collimator that every pixel four thorax is provided.The use of every pixel plural number thorax can allow Reduce collimator height, keep simultaneously similar resolution and sensitivity (such as, with the more Gao Zhun with every one thorax of pixel When straight device is compared).The reduction of collimator height can be used to reduce the diameter of detector cell, thus allows at object to be scanned Surrounding place additional detector (and additional views to be collected and information).And, the reduction of collimator height can be used to Reduce by the I sweep diameter of the detector cell group being arranged on around the volume of interest of such as brain, and not at one Or create excessive gap between face and the scanned object of multiple collimator, hence improve systemic resolution.Additionally, can Utilize the use of such as every collimator four thorax, to be modified to identical collimator dividing to health distance relative to single thorax collimator Resolution.Such as, every pixel can be used to use the collimator of multiple thoraxes in conjunction with other embodiments disclosed herein.

Within 28th, submit at December in 2011, the U.S. of entitled " Collimator For a Pixelated Detector " Patent applicant's publication No. 2013/0168567('567 is applied for) in, it is provided that showing of the collimator comprising the multiple thorax of every pixel Example, the entire subject matter of this application is incorporated herein by reference.Among other things, ' 567 application discloses for calibration doctor Study as the collimator of spendable gamma electronics in (such as, nuclear medicine).Collimator has the hole of the height through collimator, Its mesopore is arranged in group's mode of cluster.Collimator can be used together with the detector with pel array, the most often organizes hole It is associated with respective pixel, thus provides every pixel multiple collimator holes.

In various embodiments, as shown in Figure 32, one group of hole 3202(of pixel 3201 or thorax) can to comprise separation specific The wall 3204 of the first width 3206 in the hole (or thorax) of group or the hole (or thorax) of partition and specific group of separation and neighbor 3203 Adjacent sets second wide 3210 wall 3208 or partition, neighbor 3202 separates with pixel 3201 at border 3205. Second wide 3210 can be more than the first width 3206.Such as, can use for internal or the thinner width of center partition, because arriving Big entering angle in thorax can be blocked by outside or main partition (it has the greater thicknesses of the second width 3210).Additionally, Entering angle because being allowed by outside or main partition is relatively large, and therefore, internal or center partition effective thickness is relatively large.As Shown in Figure 32, in steeper angle, with compared with narrower angle, enter line 3220 and have by internal or center partition Larger lengths 3222.

Alternately, or additionally, as shown in figure 33, internal or center partition can be recessed from the top of collimator and/or bottom Enter.Figure 33 describes the collimator 3300 comprising top 3302 and bottom 3304.Outer wall 3310 extends to bottom from top 3302 3304, and inwall 3320 is recessed from top 3302, and recessed from bottom 3304.The core 3322 of inwall 3322 can be taken action To stop the beam of the high inclination by outer wall 3310.

(for example, with reference to Fig. 5-14 and relevant discussion) as discussed in this article, various collimator configuration can be used for Sensitivity or the changing ratio of resolution are provided between detector cell and the center of collimator and side.It may be noted that, this type of is joined Put and can use in the collimator with the multiple thorax of every pixel.

Figure 34 diagram comprises the detector cell 3400 of the collimator 3410 with Part I 3412 dough-making powder 3414.As Seeing in Figure 34, face 3414 is generally rectangular cross-section, and provides the length added to the core towards collimator 3410 Collimator pipe or thorax.Accordingly, due to the longer thorax length of core, with first laterally outwardly arranged from face 3414 When the shorter length of thorax is compared in the section of points 3412, define higher resolution imaging moiety or district.As another example, figure 35 diagrams comprise the detector cell 3500 of the collimator 3510 wherein comprising Part I 3512 dough-making powder 3514.See as in Figure 35 Arriving, face 3514 has generally triangular-shaped profile, provides maximum thorax length in the center of collimator 3510.In various enforcements In example, can be that face 3514 uses other shape or profile.

It may be noted that, in various embodiments, the thorax for the thorax group that gives pixel can be etc. to.In alternative In, the thorax of given pixel can be anisotropic or different size.Figure 36 provides have for one or more pixels each The top view of the collimator 3600 of anisotropy thorax.See as in Figure 36, collimator 3600 comprise definition cross section be rectangle (and not Square) the main or outer spacer 3602 of anisotropy thorax 3606 and internal spacer 3604.Arrange shown in Figure 36 and make There is provided for example rather than limit because can use in various embodiments the thorax of every other quantity of pixel and/or shape and/or Arrange.

As discussed in this article, the use of every pixel multiple collimator thorax can be used for reducing the overall big of detector cell Little.Figure 37 diagram comprises shielding 3702, the detector mould comprising the electronic equipment 3706 being coupled to CZT pixelated detector 3708 The detector cell 3700 of block 3704 and 4 hole collimator 3710.The use of 4 hole collimators 3710 provides and only makes than every pixel The envelope 3712 less for envelope (envelope) 3714 required with the longer collimator of a thorax.Shielding 3702 may also be configured to Serve as keeper, thus the quantity of the parts lowered the requirement further and/or the size of detector cell 3700.Reality in diagram Executing in example, shielding 3702 can such as include tungsten or metal.As another example, shielding 3702 may be included in epoxy matrix material In tungsten powder.Epoxy resin can be the structural material with high absorption coefficient.This shielding can be in terms of size or miniaturization There is provided and reduce further.

The minimizing of the size of detector cell 3700 can provide multiple benefit.Such as, less detector head allows Want closeer filling or the location of the data collection detector of imaging, thus improve camera arrangement sensitivity.Less detector head Use also can reduce the collision of detector head when for less object imaging, and allow for be scanned the least right Use the gap of more multi-detector and minimizing between the detector of elephant, and allow detector closer to less object location.

It should be noted that various embodiment can realize with hardware, software or a combination thereof.Various embodiments and/or such as module Or the assembly of assembly therein and controller also can be embodied as a part for one or more computer or processor.Computer or Processor can comprise calculating device, input equipment, display unit and such as accessing the interface of the Internet.Computer or place Reason device can comprise microprocessor.Microprocessor may be connected to communication bus.Computer or processor also can comprise memorizer.Storage Device can comprise random access memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM).Computer or processor can also comprise storage device, It can be hard disk drive or removable memory driver, such as solid-state drive, CD drive and like this.Storage Device can also be other the similar parts for computer program or other instruction being loaded in computer or processor.

As used herein, term " computer " or " module " can comprise any based on processor or based on micro-process The system of device, comprises use microcontroller, Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC), ASIC, logic circuit and can allow for herein Described in other circuit any of function or the system of processor.The simply demonstration of above-mentioned example, and be therefore not intended to any Mode limits definition and/or the connotation of term " computer ".

Computer or processor operate in the instruction set of storage in one or more memory element to process input data. Memory element is also dependent on being desired or needed for storing data or out of Memory.Memory element can be deposited with the physics in handling machine Memory element or the form of information source.

Instruction set can comprise to indicate and performs the most various enforcement of specific operation as the computer of handling machine or processor The method of example and the various orders of process.Instruction set can be in form of software programs.Software can be such as in a variety of manners Also it can be presented as tangible and nonvolatile computer readable medium for system software or application software.Additionally, software can be with independent journey Sequence or module, the program module in bigger program or the form of the set of a part for program module.Software also can comprise with face Modularization programming to the programming form of object.By processor to input data process can in response to operator command, or Person is in response to previously processed result, or in response to the request sent by another handling machine.

Volume as used herein, term " software " and " firmware " are interchangeable, and comprise in memory storage for by Any computer program that computer runs, memorizer comprises RAM memory, ROM memory, eprom memory, EEPROM deposit Reservoir and non-volatile ram (NVRAM) memorizer.The simply demonstration of above-mentioned type of memory, and therefore for can be used for storing The type of the memorizer of computer program is not to limit.

Be appreciated that be described above that be intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive.Such as, above-described embodiment (and/or its side Face) can be combined with each other.It addition, multiple amendment can be carried out so that particular condition or material are suitable for the teaching of various embodiment, Without departing from its scope.Although the size of material described herein and the parameter of the various embodiment of type intent definition, but real Execute example the most restrictive, but exemplary.When examination is described above, other embodiments many are for the skill of this area Art personnel will be apparent from.Therefore, should with reference to appended claims together with this kind of claims be endowed etc. The four corner of jljl determines the scope of various embodiment.In the dependent claims, term " comprises " and " wherein " uses Make corresponding term " to include " and the plain-English equivalent of " wherein ".Additionally, in claims below, term " first ", " second " and " the 3rd " etc. are only used as labelling rather than are intended to its object is forced numerical requirements.Additionally, claim below The restriction of book does not adds functional form with method and writes and be not intended to based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and straight Limit to this kind of claim use definitely the function statement being followed by lacking further structure phrase " be used for ... portion Part ".

The example that the use of this written description comprises optimal mode is to disclose various embodiment, and also makes any of this area Technical staff can implement various embodiment, comprises making and uses any device or system and perform any side comprised Method.The patentable scope of various embodiments is defined by the claims, and can comprise those skilled in the art and think Other examples arrived.If other examples this kind of have the structural detail of the word language being not different from claims, or If person they comprise the equivalent structural elements without essence difference of the word language having with claims, then they are intended to It is within the scope of claims.

Claims

1. an imaging system, including:

Stand；

Detector cell, is installed to described stand；

At least one processing unit, is configured to obtain corresponding to wanting the object information of the object of imaging and believing based on described object Breath, automatically determines at least one Part I of described object and at least one Part II of described object；And

Controller, is configured to control the in rotary moving of described detector cell, and wherein said detector cell can be with frequency sweep speed Rate rotates from primary importance to the second position, and the scope in the visual field of the described object of imaging is wanted in definition, and wherein said controller is joined It is set to rotate described detector cell with uneven sweep rate from described primary importance to the described second position, described uneven Sweep rate be configured to during described primary importance to the described rotation of the described second position change, wherein with for described At least one Part II is compared, and obtains more substantial scanning information at least one Part I described.

2. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detector cell is arranged on detector carrier, wherein said Detector is rotating independent of described stand on the direction of the direction in the thorax that patient proceeds to described stand.

3. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said controller is configured to substantially continuously rotate described detection Device unit, and wherein said controller be configured through change during the described rotation of described detector cell at not coordination The place of putting rotates the rotary speed of described detector and changes described sweep rate.

4. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said controller is configured in a series of discrete step rotate Described detector cell, and wherein said controller be configured through change change in the time that described discrete step spends Described sweep rate.

5. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, wherein uses the information scanned from CT (computer tomography) (CT) to come really Fixed at least one Part I described.

6. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, wherein uses patient's collection of illustrative plates to determine at least one Part I described.

7. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, also includes the collimator being coupled to described detector cell, described detector Unit includes that pixel, described collimator have the collimator thorax of the plural number corresponding to described pixel, and described collimator comprises setting Internal spacer above the interior section of described pixel and be arranged on the outer spacer above the border of described pixel, Qi Zhongsuo State outer spacer and there is the wall thickness bigger than described internal spacer.

8. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, also includes the collimator being coupled to described detector cell, described detector Unit includes that pixel, described collimator have the plural collimator thorax corresponding to described pixel, and described collimator comprises and is arranged on Internal spacer above the interior section of described pixel and be arranged on the outer spacer above the border of described pixel, wherein said Outer spacer extends along from the length of the top-to-bottom of described collimator, and wherein said internal spacer does not extend intos described collimation The described top of device or described bottom.

9. imaging system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said stand with described uneven sweep rate in different angles position Rotating between putting, wherein said detector cell rotates with described stand, and wherein said sweep rate is for described angle At least two of position is different.

10. an imaging system, including:

Stand；

Multiple detector cells, are installed to described stand, and the plurality of detector cell can move individually, comprise translation mobile and In rotary moving；

Controller, is configured to control the described in rotary moving of the plurality of detector cell, and wherein said detector cell can be from Corresponding primary importance rotates individually to the second position, and the scope in the visual field of the object of imaging is wanted in definition, and wherein said controller is joined It is set to uneven sweep rate from described the second of the described primary importance of described detector cell to described detector cell Position rotates at least one detector cell, and described uneven sweep rate is configured to from described primary importance to described second Change during the described rotation of position, wherein with compared with at least one Part II described, for described at least one the A part obtains more substantial scanning information.

11. imaging systems as claimed in claim 10, wherein said controller be configured to substantially continuously to rotate described in extremely A detector cell, and wherein said controller less is configured through changing the institute at least one detector cell described The rotary speed of at least one detector described is rotated to change described sweep rate in various location during stating rotation.

12. imaging systems as claimed in claim 10, wherein said controller is configured in series of discrete step rotate At least one detector cell described, and wherein said controller be configured through change when described discrete step spends Between change described sweep rate.

13. imaging systems as claimed in claim 10, wherein use the information scanned from CT (computer tomography) (CT) Determine at least one Part I described.

14. imaging systems as claimed in claim 10, wherein use patient's collection of illustrative plates to determine at least one Part I described.

15. imaging systems as claimed in claim 10, wherein said controller is configured to different uneven sweep rates Control at least two in the plurality of detector cell.

16. imaging systems as claimed in claim 10, also include the collimator being coupled at least one detector cell described, At least one detector cell described includes that pixel, described collimator have the plural collimator thorax corresponding to described pixel, institute State collimator comprise the internal spacer above the interior section being arranged on described pixel and be arranged on above the border of described pixel Outer spacer, wherein said outer spacer has the wall thickness or than described internal spacer longer bigger than described internal spacer Length at least one.

17. 1 kinds of methods, including:

Use processing unit, it is thus achieved that corresponding to wanting the object information of the object of imaging；

Automatically use described processing unit, based on described object information, determine at least one Part I and the institute of described object State at least one Part II of object；

Rotating at least one detector cell from primary importance to the second position with sweep rate, the described object of imaging is wanted in definition The scope in the visual field, to gather described scanning information, wherein rotate described detector cell be included in from described primary importance to During the described rotation of the described second position, change described sweep rate, wherein with at least one Part II phase described Ratio, obtains more substantial scanning information at least one Part I described.

18. methods as claimed in claim 17, wherein said acquisition object information comprises execution CT (computer tomography) (CT) Scanning, wherein uses the information from described CT scan, determine at least one Part I described and described at least one second Part.

19. methods as claimed in claim 17, wherein use patient's collection of illustrative plates to determine at least one Part I described.

20. methods as claimed in claim 17, wherein said detector cell substantially continuously rotates, and described change Described sweep rate includes that change rotates institute in various location during the described rotation of at least one detector cell described State the rotary speed of at least one detector.

21. methods as claimed in claim 17, wherein rotate described detector cell, and institute in series of discrete step State and change the time that described sweep rate includes that change spends at described discrete step.

22. methods as claimed in claim 17, at least one detector cell wherein said include the first detector cell and Second detector cell, described method also includes controlling described first detector cell and described second detector cell with difference Uneven sweep rate rotate.

23. methods as claimed in claim 17, the identification division being wherein imaged based on described object changes described frequency sweep Speed.