Abstract: An imaging plate for use in computerized radiography has an individual plate identification adapted to be visible in an X-ray image and a further indication marked visibly on the plate. Imaging plates found to be damaged when the X-ray image is examined can be identified by the visible marking.

Abstract: An x-ray marker device (10) for use on a sheet of x-ray film (100) in a diagnostic radiology environment wherein, the marker device (10) includes a radiologically transparent housing member (20) having a front face (22) provided with a decorative element (23) and a rear face (24) provided with means (25) for releasably securing the housing member (20) to the x-ray cassette (100) and a plurality of radiologically opaque indicator members (30) embedded within the housing member (20) wherein, the indicator members include a peripheral indicator member (31) a directional indicator member (32) and one or more technician identification indicator members (33).

Abstract: An X-ray computed tomography scanner that performs helical scanning based on a designated scanning range and collects X-ray projection data, comprising a determination unit which determines an X-ray irradiation range necessary for reconstructing an image within the scanning range, and a display unit which displays an image formed by superimposing the X-ray irradiation range on a scanogram.

Abstract: From among a group of taken images, an image suitable for inspection is identifiably displayed and can be arbitrarily selected. Also an image may be re-taken as a result of an instruction for re-taking the image and also displayed on a display. Images already taken prior to the re-taking of the image are displayed with a character or symbol, such as a cross mark, for easy identification by the operator. Also, the operator may arbitrarily select an image from the re-taken image and the already taken images.

Abstract: A digital system for evaluating foot and ankle radiographs having the advantage of providing accurate measurement information based on selected landmarks on the radiograph. The system includes a computing device, a coordinate generating digitizing device operatively connected to the computing device for generating coordinate data for the selected landmarks on the radiograph, and software for converting the coordinate data into descriptive measurement information. The present invention also includes a new method of analyzing foot and ankle radiographs that includes selecting a medical condition for evaluation, selecting a radiograph of the patient for the medical condition, determining landmarks to be located on the radiograph for evaluation of the medical condition, digitizing points in the landmark as coordinate data, and converting coordinate data into clinical measurement information.

Abstract: The present invention relates to autoradiographic marking devices. In particular, the present invention provides compositions useful for marking X-ray films.

Abstract: In an x-ray apparatus and method to determine the radiation dose in x-ray examinations, the x-ray apparatus has an x-ray radiator, an automatic exposure timer, and a laser range finder to detect the focus-patient separation between the x-ray radiator and a patient, and a computer device determines the necessary radiation dose using the thickness of the body part of the patient to be examined. The thickness is calculated from the acquired focus-patient distance and geometric data of the x-ray apparatus.

Abstract: A mammographic apparatus comprises an identification information reader and the identification information reader transmits the cassette identification information read by the identification information reader together with the radiography execution information to the control apparatus, in the control apparatus, it becomes possible to automatically correlate the radiographic order information and the radiography execution information based on the cassette ID (identification information). Accordingly, since the radiologist can eliminate the selection work to select of the radiographic order information for correlating the radiography execution information prior to the radiography, the efficiency of radiographic work can be improved.

Abstract: A mammography system has: a mammography apparatus for radiographing a mamma image of a patient by irradiating radiations and for recording the mamma image in a cassette; a reading apparatus for reading the mamma image from the cassette; and a controller for obtaining the read mamma image by controlling the reading apparatus, wherein the mammography apparatus comprises a communication section for transmitting radiography performance information to the controller, the radiography performance information including first key information, and the controller comprises: a storage section for storing the radiographing order information including second key information; and a controlling section for relating the radiography performance information and the radiographing order information based on the first key information included in the radiography performance information transmitted from the mammography apparatus and the second key information included in the stored radiographing order information.

Abstract: Devices for use with a mammography unit and for patient comfort comprise an x-ray transparent compressible material and a radiopaque identifier which imparts information onto a mammogram about physical and other characteristics of the material that affect image quality. The identifier is generally affixed to the material, and, for example, it can be sealed within the material. The material substantially conforms to patient contact surfaces of a cassette holder (bucky) or a compression paddle and, in one example, contains openings to accommodate passage of a cassette therethrough. The devices are for single use or reusable. X-ray transparent disposable covers used over the devices can also have a radiopaque identifier keyed to desired information about, for example, physical and other characteristics of the material that affect image quality. All information appears away from the breast image.

Abstract: For the purpose of displaying a more accurate exposure dose value without imposing additional work on an imaging operator, an exposure dose calculating method in an X-ray CT apparatus comprises the steps of: inputting the age and a region to be examined of a subject; calculating the head or chest diameter of the subject based on the age and region to be examined of the subject input at the inputting step, and on statistics on the head or chest circumference of a human body; calculating an exposure dose of a phantom having a diameter equivalent to the calculated diameter of the head or chest, based on prior information on an exposure dose to a phantom having a predetermined diameter when a predetermined X-ray dose is applied to the phantom; and displaying the exposure dose value.

Abstract: A medical imaging examination device has an X-ray source, a reception unit for receiving the X-rays that penetrate a patient, an operating device for operation of the examination device by an operator, and a memory device wherein images are or can be stored in electronically readable form. The images can be X-ray images registered in earlier examinations or images that simulate X-ray images. A selection device reads out one of the stored images out from the memory device dependent on a desired examination region of the patient and displays it on a display device before the examination of the examination region with X-rays. The operating personnel, possibly in conjunction with a control functionality of the examination device are thus provided with a visualization of an X-ray image to be anticipated.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for registering a patient data set obtained by an imaging process in camera navigation-supported surgical operations, comprising the following steps: producing a patient data set by means of a tomographic scan or an imaging process for the body of the patient or a part thereof, applying at least one marker array, identifiable and trackable in the navigation system, to at least one solid body structure, preferably a bone structure, after the patient has been brought into an operating room and during treatment, in particular after the area to be treated has been exposed, producing one or more x-ray images of the area to be treated by means of an x-ray unit, the spatial position of said images in the navigation system being determined, updating, by means of a computer-assisted assignment, the register of the patient data set with the positional data obtained from the x-ray image, and detecting and re-registering movements or relative movements in the area to be treated by t

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for computer-assisted medical navigation and/or pre-operative treatment planning, wherein the current position of a patient or a part of a patient's body and the positions of medical treatment devices or treatment-assisting devices are detected by means of a position detection unit, and wherein said detected positional data are assigned to body structure data, in order to jointly use said body structure data in assignment with said positional data, within the context of assisting the treatment, wherein body structure data are used which are obtained based on a generic model which has been adapted by linking it with patient-characteristic detection data.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for registering image information by means of a medical navigation system, wherein: current image information, in particular a current x-ray image of a patient to be registered using the navigation system, is produced; the position of the image information detection device, in particular of the x-ray device, is established by means of the navigation system; the current image information, in particular the current x-ray image, is compared with the aid of a computer with other image information (for example, a previously taken x-ray image); in the event of a difference between the image content of the current and previous image, the new relative position of the image information detection device or x-ray device respectively and of the patient is detected and stored; and the current image information produced or current x-ray image produced, respectively, is registered in the navigation system, based on the information on the new relative position.

Abstract: This invention provides an X-ray photo-taking system, X-ray photo-taken image display method, and storage medium by which an operator can readily understand the position (right, left, or center) of a photo-taking region of an object to be examined, the X-ray irradiation direction, and the photo-taking attitude only by monitoring an X-ray image, and by which text information is narrowed down to patient information and photo-taking information to make these pieces of information easy to see.

Abstract: A method and system for providing a radiation treatment to a patient utilizing a radiation treatment unit is disclosed. The method and system comprises relevant identifying information about the patient to a server and determining the disease of the patient to be treated. The method and system further includes providing the radiation treatment protocol based upon the patient information and the disease from the server to the treatment unit. Accordingly, through the present invention a treatment plan is provided based upon information in a database within the server. In addition, the database can be updated on a regular basis through access to the Internet, intranet, or other types of input to insure that the particular treatment plan provided is the most up-to-date treatment plan for the disease to be treated. In so doing, a system is provided that can be used in settings where experts are not available.

Abstract: In order to improve ease of operation in an X-ray photographic system for performing X-ray photography (radiography) for taking a plurality of photographs (radiographs) when a photographic request is received from an external source; when photographs of a plurality of regions are to be taken, an examination system includes a device for changing the input photographic sequence of the regions to be photographed, a device for taking photographs in accordance with the changed photographic sequence, and a device for outputting the photographed results in a desired sequence.

Abstract: A system and method for building and/or manipulating a centralized medical image quantitative information database aid in diagnosing diseases, identifying prevalence of diseases, and analyzing market penetration data and efficacy of different drugs. In one embodiment, the diseases are bone-related, such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Subjects' medical images, personal and treatment information are obtained at information collection terminals, for example, at medical and/or dental facilities, and are transferred to a central database, either directly or through a system server. Quantitative information is derived from the medical images, and stored in a central database, associated with subjects' personal and treatment information. Authorized users, such as medical officials and/or pharmaceutical companies, can access the database, either directly or through the central server, to diagnose diseases and perform statistical analysis on the stored data.

Abstract: A system and method for transferring x-ray roentgenograms to a digital format for patient hospital or office records is provided. A high resolution digitizer interfaced with computer technology is used to scan each x-ray as it is delivered from the x-ray processor, to encode the x-ray with selected information such as the patient's name and medical record number, and to immediately print a hard paper copy to be included with the patient record. The hard paper copy can be a high resolution plain paper print out. The system can simultaneously store a digital representation of the x-ray picture in a computer readable format for easy access, and/or transmission to another site, at any time. Thousands of x-ray prints can be stored indefinitely on discs, saving vast amounts of storage space.

Abstract: In a radiographic image recording method and apparatus, the output of a source of radiation is adjusted taking into account the characteristics of an identified recording medium and the deviation of the actual processing conditions from expected processing conditions.

Abstract: A radiation image reading system, comprises a plurality of reading apparatus to read a radiation image and to produce image data; and an information transmitting apparatus to transmit information regarding a patient to at least a reading apparatus of the plurality of reading apparatus; wherein when the information regarding the patient transmitted by the information transmitting apparatus is canceled, the information regarding the patient is transmitted by the information transmitting apparatus to another reading apparatus other than the reading apparatus to which the information regarding the patient was firstly transmitted.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for registering a patient data set obtained by an imaging process in camera navigation-supported surgical operations, comprising the following steps:

Abstract: An orientation marker for a digital radiogram formed by a plurality of pixels arrayed along a plurality of rows and columns. The pixels have densities which represent the radiogram optical density at each pixel point, and the densities are represented by digital values. The marker is made by a number of marker pixels arrayed along at least one row and one column of the radiogram. Each of the pixels forming the marker, have a marker pixel digital value which has been selected to form an asymmetrical marker pixel pattern on the radiogram, replacing the original radiogram pixel values.

Abstract: A marking tape for transferring information written thereon to a film when the film is exposed to x-rays. The tape is a laminate of an upper film, a radiopaque emulsion, and a lower film. The top surface of the upper film is partially coated with a writable ink, and the ink coating positioned directly over the radiopaque emulsion. Pressure exerted by the user while writing on the ink surface causes the underlying emulsion to part. When the marking tape is affixed to a film cassette, x-rays penetrate the marking tape in those areas where the emulsion has been parted, the underlying film is exposed, and the information entered on the marking tape is thereby transferred to the film. The marking tape can be made in different sizes and radiopacities that can be distinguished by color-coding the writable surface.

Abstract: An X-ray marker includes a shaping material formed with a base having a substantially constant thickness and pattern formed in the base having a thickness different than the base. An X-ray attenuator is suspended in the shaping material creating a composite material having a substantially uniform density. The X-ray absorption of the base varies in proportion with the base thickness. Therefore, the different thicknesses of the base forms an image corresponding to the pattern when the marker is disposed over an X-ray sensitive image receptor and exposed to X-rays.

Abstract: A device for direct, visual estimation of dimensions of measurement objects that are difficult to reach, such as organs and foreign articles within human and animal bodies. The human eye gives a good size apprehension when comparing a measurement object with a similar thing of known dimension close to that of the measurement object. The comparison can be carried out on an X-ray picture in which a measurement object as well as a comparison body are reproduced close to each other and on the same scale. Means are provided for fixing the comparison body at the exterior surface of the human or animal body. The comparison body is confined by a series of surfaces of revolution with different sizes within an interval matched to the dimension interval of the dimension object.

Abstract: An apparatus and process is provided for permanently imprinting historical data onto original dental radiographs by radiographically developing such information onto the film when initially developed. One preferred embodiment utilizes a pliers-like film holder with jaws to secure a radiographic film in place relative to a patient's teeth. The jaws have a slot to receive a removable marker which carries radio-opaque data to be permanently imprinted onto the radiograph. Another device includes a pronged film holder having a slot to receive such a removable marker. Processes for permanently imprinting dental radiographs, including the steps above recited, are also disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: A medical X-ray machine for taking X-ray pictures which includes a radiation source (9), a recording medium (10), and a component, such as a diaphragm (2), for generating at least one machine-specific and/or component-specific marking or data identifier which is automatically assigned to an X-ray picture which is to be or has been taken.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus which includes a primary scanner for scanning an original X-ray image obtained using a grid and recorded on a recording medium with light in a primary scanning direction. A clock signal generator generates clock signals having a frequency N times as high as a frequency of pixel clock signals, wherein the pixel clock signals correspond to a desired pixel size, and wherein N is a positive integer. A converter converts a light beam from the recording medium into electric signals by a scanning operation of the primary scanner, and converts the electric signals into digital signals based on the clock signals. A low pass filter is provided which has at least one set of filter characteristics having a cut-off frequency between 1/3 and 2/3 of the frequency of the pixel clock signals for filtering the digital signals converted by the converter.

Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided an image data detecting apparatus for X-ray CT comprising a scanning apparatus including an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays while rotating about a patient, a detector for detecting X rays emitted by the X-ray tube and passing through the patient, and a memory unit for storing transmission X-ray data detected by the detector, and a transmitting/receiving unit for transmitting the transmission X-ray data stored in the memory unit together with an identification number for identifying the image data detecting apparatus. The image data detecting apparatus of the present invention can be set solely in an inspection site, thereby making it possible to save the space for inspection.

Abstract: A marker apparatus and method for identifying radiation imaging recording media, particularly x-ray media. The apparatus includes a container having a recessed area and a reservoir communicable with the recessed area. A surface, disposed within the recessed area, includes a marking area on which identifying characters are formed using a marking instrument. An imaging media comprised of a material opaque to radiation is disposed within the reservoir. Flow of the imaging media is effected from the reservoir into the recessed area and across the surface to collect at the identifying characters. In one embodiment, the surface is a deformable surface on which depressions are formed, and the imaging media collects in the depressions. In another embodiment, the surface is a magnetic surface which attracts magnetically-attractable imaging media.

Abstract: There is provided a silver halide photographic, black-and-white medical hard copy material, comprising an opaque reflecting polymeric support and at least one hydrophilic colloid outermost layer, characterized in that:(i) the material comprises a silver halide emulsion layer A and a silver halide emulsion layer B, coated on the same side of said support, the emulsion layer B being closest to said support and(ii) the silver halide emulsion layer A is faster than the silver halide emulsion layer B.Emulsion layer A is preferably between 1.25 and 3.20 times faster than emulsion layer B.A method is also provided for printing radiological images in combination with the protocol describing said radiological images onto a single sheet of hard-copy film.

Abstract: An X-ray film marking unit for exposing a portion of the film with a label having indicia relating to patient identifying and X-ray machine identifying information. A computer or microprocessor system is fully integrated as part of a smart marking system which may retrieve data from various sources via digital interface ports. Three modes of operation, full-automatic, semi-automatic and stand-alone, are utilized for data retrieval.

Abstract: A patient identification x-ray cassette comprising: a cover having a window in the cover with predetermined transmission characteristics; a prompt emission stimulable phosphor coated substrate positioned essentially below the window having a phosphor that is selected to absorb at a first bandwidth and emit at a second bandwidth and the substrate is selected to transmit at least the first bandwidth; an image receiving element sensitive to electromagnetic radiation of the second bandwidth positioned at least below the window; and placing the phosphor coated substrate against the image receiving element. The phosphor is of the type that absorbs energy in the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and emits energy in the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. The substrate upon which the coating is placed is relatively transparent to infrared wavelengths. The cassette allows for patient identification data to be written onto the x-ray film contained inside the cassette via an infrared source.

Abstract: Film markers for specifying body postures of an animal photographed in roentgenograms are described. The marker includes an animal-symbolizing member that shows the contour of an animal and a base member that symbolizes the top plate of a X-ray photographic table. These members are made of a roentgenopaque material and embedded in a synthetic resin plate. By irradiating a X-ray film cassette with this film marker put on one corner of the cassette, four body postures of prone, supine, laterally recumbent, and obliquely recumbent positions of an animal photographed can be visually specified at a glance by any person.

Abstract: An apparatus for indicating the presence or absence of a sheet within a cassette. The apparatus includes a plate and a mask stationarily mounted on a first side of the plate. An indicating element is movably mounted in overlapping orientation to the mask for one-dimensional movement between a first position wherein the indicating element and the mask define a first pattern indicative of the absence of the sheet, and a second position wherein the indicating element and the mask define a second pattern indicative of the presence of the sheet. A spring biases the indicating element in the first position, and a movable member moves the indicating element to define the second pattern when the sheet is positioned within the cassette. Alternatively, the indicating element is stationarily mounted and the mask is movably mounted for one-dimensional movement.

Abstract: A camera that projects data onto an X-ray film (2). The film is accommodated in a light-tight cassette (3). The data is imaged onto the film with light projected along a row (A) through an open window (4) in the cassette. The camera is characterized by means (24a, 24b, 25a, 25b, & 29) of releasably securing the cassette relative to the top (1a) of the camera along and/or across the row and by a control unit (27) that actuates the securing means during exposure and acts in conjunction with sensors (15a, 15b, & 15c) which emit signals in accordance with the orientation of the cassette.

Abstract: A radiographic film marking kit for use during radiographic procedures to identify a right or left anatomical area or position. The kit consists of two markers with radio-opaque indicia which are removably attachable to a clip for use in positioning a marker along an edge margin of a vertically oriented radiographic film cassette. The markers can also be used individually separate from the clip so that they can be positioned anywhere on the face of a horizontally oriented radiographic film.

Abstract: A marking device, preferably for use with x-ray film to be exposed, has an indicia supporting member that is transparent to the x-ray energy, at least one indicia opaque to the x-ray energy, a movable cover shield also opaque to the x-ray energy, an attaching means for temporarily securing the device to an x-ray film or a film cassette, and a removable carrying case. The cover shield is moved from a shielding position relative to the indicia to an non-shielding position relative to the indicia. When the indicia is not shielded then the indicia appears on the exposed x-ray film. The carrying case substantially encloses the attaching means to prevent its contamination when the marking device is not in use, and includes means for attaching the case and device to the user in a visible and accessible location, as well as containing radio opaque indicia for marking the film with additional information.

Abstract: A cassette containing an x-ray film with a latent image is placed in a camera having a memory which receives data relating to the image. The cassette is provided with a window which is closed by a cover and, once the cassette is in the camera, the window is sealed from external light. A moving mechanism then slides away the cover to open the window. The moving mechanism carries a printed circuit board which supports the memory, two parallel rows of LEDs and a microprocessor connected to the memory and the LEDs. The rows extend perpendicular to the direction of movement of the moving mechanism, and the LEDs of the rows are offset relative to one another. After the window has been opened completely, the moving mechanism begins to close the window. As the window closes, the microprocessor activates the LEDs so that the latter print the data in the memory on the portion of the film in the window.

Abstract: An x-ray cassette including a body having an interior configured to hold a sheet of x-ray film. The body has a window disposed for the transmission of light into the interior of the body. A shutter is mounted on the body. The shutter is free of apertures. The shutter is slideable relative to the window between a closed position, in which the shutter occludes the passage of light through the window, and an open position, in which the shutter is spaced apart from the window to allow the passage of light through the window. A mechanical latch is reversibly translatable between locked and released configurations. The latch in the locked configuration arrests the shutter in the closed position. The latch in the released configuration frees the shutter.

Abstract: An x-ray film cassette having a base and a cover adapted to close upon the base. The cover is provided with an identification window. A pressure plate is secured within the cassette. The cover, pressure plate and base form a light-tight space for receiving a sheet of x-ray film. The pressure plate is also provided with an identification window which is in substantial alignment with the identification window of the cover. A light-tight slideable window shutter is provided for covering of the identification window of the cover and/or the pressure plate. The slideable window shutter, when in a first position, provides a light-tight seal against the windows and when in a second position allows information to be provided to an x-ray film contained within the cassette. An indicator assembly is secured to the pressure plate and is at least partially visible through the cover for indicating when film is present within the cassette and for indicating when the window shutter has been opened.

Abstract: An X-ray film marking unit for exposing a portion of the film with a label having indicia relating to patient identifying and X-ray machine identifying information. A computer or microprocessor system is fully integrated as part of a smart marking system which may retrieve data from various sources via digital interface ports. Three modes of operation, full-automatic, semi-automatic and stand-alone, are utilized for data retrieval.

Abstract: Information on positioning of a patient during x-ray examination is provided by imaging a marker, notably a lead-letter, simultaneously with imaging a patient. Remote-controlled markers are provided attached to separate moveable flat frames. The use of a flat frame makes possible to incorporate an arrangement for remote-controlled position and/or orientation, within the serial film changer without increasing required vertical space. Thus comfortable and easy access for a patient onto the patient table is provided. The motion of relevant frames along guide rails is performed by means of a system of motors, belts or chains and pulleys. The motors are controlled by means of potentiometers and a micro-processor that supplies signals in correspondence with a required motion of a relevant frame. The motors are positioned within the serial film changer and aside of the patient support table. As a consequence restriction of the longitudinal motion of the patient support table is avoided.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a marking system for taking X-ray films. The marking system comprises an X-ray transparent letter holding means configured to hold one or more X-ray opaque letters and/or indicia, said holding means having one or more fastening members that permit it to be removably attached to an X-ray film holder, and cooperating fastening members on the X-ray film holder.

Abstract: A marker for forming identifying indicia on X-ray film is comprised of two overlapping layers of material which define a predetermined shape, with a first layer of material having first predetermined X-ray absorbing characteristics, and-a second layer of material having second X-ray absorbing characteristics complementary to the X-ray absorbing characteristics of the first material, such that the combination of the two layers block a sufficient portion of the X-rays imparted to the X-ray film to form an identifying indicia on the X-ray film having good contrast. The combination of the two layers of material block a substantially greater portion of the X-rays than that blocked by either of the two materials alone. A plurality of indicia-defining layers of material are encapsulated within a clear encapsulating material having magnetic engaging means, whereby a single marker having a plurality of identifying indicia may be easily picked up and engaged with the platen containing the X-ray film.

Abstract: A programmable dental x-ray inscription system is disclosed for use in physically inscribing developed dental x-rays with patient identifying indicia representative of the identity of the patient, the esposure date of the dental x-ray, the tooth numbers of teeth represented in the x-ray and other related information. The physical inscriptions have a depth dimension into the developed dental x-ray. The programmable dental x-ray inscription system includes a housing which is positionable on a work surface such as a desk or countertop. During the programming cycle of the system, the user places a developed dental x-ray within the projected support tray of the system, which is thereafter retracted within the housing. Then during the programming cycle, user-directed prompts and queries are displayed on the display panel of the system so that the user selects a suitable inscription field and enters data representative of desired patient identifying indicia.

Abstract: A support assembly for conveniently carrying radiology or X-ray markers includes a flexible cord forming a loop with a support element connected to the cord. First and second radiology or X-ray marker elements each are provided with adhesive for enabling the marker elements to be removably attached to the support element, whereby the loop can be positioned around a user's neck to provide quick and easy access to the marker elements.

Abstract: An automatic opening device for the window of a radiographic cassette including a fixed bracket (1); motor-driven equipment (8) sliding along the bracket (1) between a position of engagement with the window and a position of full opening of the window, including a cap element (12) sliding vertically between positions of engagement and disengagement with the window and equipped with a spring (15) which is compressed when the cap element (12) is in the disengagement position as to the window, at least one movable side (10) sliding on the fixed brakcet (1), and trailing with it the cap element (12), and a wedge element (11) causing the cap element (12) to move vertically.