Abstract: An image processor acquires an image including a desired portion of an object to be examined. An image memory temporarily stores the acquired image, and an outline is extracted from an area of interest from the desired portion of the object. The outline is extracted by dividing the image stored in the image memory into plural areas using parallel lines, and a threshold value is set for each of the plural divided areas. Points having values exceeding the threshold values are connected.

Abstract: The connections among a plurality of dynamic image generating means, a plurality of work stations, a plurality of temporary storage means and a plurality of video tape recorders are switched from one to another a matrix switcher, so that the number of the video tape recorders may be smaller than the total number of the dynamic image generating means and the work stations. The dynamic image generating means are connected via the temporary storage means to the video tape recorders, and the video tape recorders are connected via the temporary storage means to the work stations, so that wait time at the time of image recording or reproduction can be shortened.

Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus repeatedly radiates pulse-like X-rays, repeatedly images X-rays passing through an object to be examined at a predetermined frame period, and sequentially displays a plurality of images thus obtained repeatedly. In this invention, the exposure dose can be reduced since the number of X-ray irradiation times per unit time is set to be smaller than the number of frames to be imaged per unit time.

Abstract: An X-ray radiographic apparatus comprises an X-ray tube having an X-ray focal point for radiating X-ray beams toward an object being examined, an X-ray beam limiting device incorporating a limiting member making an aperture for limiting the X-ray beams passing therethrough, the aperture being adjustable in size, and an element for obtaining a surface image of the object through the aperture. The obtained surface image is utilized in various aspects.