JP2010088584A - Ultrasonic diagnosing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic diagnosing system which can easily recognize an area of concern in specified image data. <P>SOLUTION: The ultrasonic diagnosing system includes an ultrasonic probe 1 which send and receive ultrasonic waves to and from a subject P being tested, a transceiving part 2 which drives the ultrasonic probe 1 and subjects the subject P to be tested to ultrasonic scanning, an image data generator 51 which generates image data according to signals received from the transceiving part 2, an operation part 8 which designates the area of concern in the image data generated by the image data generator 51, a location detector 3 which generates location and angle data of the ultrasonic probe 1 corresponding to the image data generated by the image data generator 51, a generator 61 of an area concerned which generates data of the area concerned in the designated area of concern on the basis of positional and angular data generated by the location detector 3, and a location information generator 63 which generates location information of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the designated area concerned. The location information generated by the location information generator 63 is indicated on a display 7. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that images and diagnoses the inside of a subject with ultrasonic waves.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus emits ultrasonic waves to a subject, receives a reflected wave generated by a difference in acoustic impedance of tissue in the subject, and displays the reflected wave on a display unit. This ultrasonic diagnostic method enables simple observation of the two-dimensional image data displayed on the display unit in real time with a simple operation by simply bringing the ultrasonic probe into contact with the body surface. Widely used for diagnosis and treatment of various organs such as the abdomen and urinary organs.

  In recent years, it has become possible to display three-dimensional image data by ultrasonic three-dimensional scanning in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and diagnosis based on the image has become widespread. In the three-dimensional scanning method for obtaining three-dimensional image data, a position sensor for detecting the position and angle of the ultrasonic probe brought into contact with the subject is attached, and each of the two obtained from a plurality of positions or angles. By using the information of the three-dimensional image data and the position data of the image data, three-dimensional image data can be obtained.

  By the way, when the diagnosis by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is, for example, the abdomen, affected parts such as tumors may be scattered in a plurality of places. In this case, when 2D image data including the affected area or 3D image data including the affected area is displayed on the display unit, the position and form of the affected area included in the image data are grasped, and the ultrasonic probe is further moved. The remaining affected area will be searched.

However, if the forms of a plurality of affected parts are similar, it may be difficult to distinguish the affected parts. In order to solve this problem, a marker is specified in the region of interest of the image data displayed on the display unit, and when the region of interest in which the marker is specified is included in the image data displayed thereafter, the region of interest is specified. A method of displaying a marker and distinguishing and grasping each region of interest is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2000-107185 A

  However, in the method of displaying a marker when a region of interest in which the marker is specified is included in the image data as in Patent Document 1, when the region of interest in which the marker is specified is to be observed again, the image displayed on the display unit is displayed. It is necessary to search the region of interest by moving the ultrasonic probe while viewing the data, which is troublesome.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can easily grasp a region of interest of designated image data.

  In order to solve the above problems, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention includes an ultrasonic probe that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, and drives the ultrasonic probe to scan the subject with ultrasonic waves. Transmitting / receiving means for performing, image data generating means for generating image data based on a received signal from the transmitting / receiving means, designating means for designating a region of interest of the image data generated by the image data generating means, and the image data generating A position detector for detecting position and angle of the ultrasonic probe corresponding to the image data generated by the means to generate position data and angle data; and position data and angle data generated by the position detector. The region-of-interest data generation unit that generates the region-of-interest data of the region of interest designated by the designation unit, and the position data generation unit Position information creation for creating position information of the region of interest designated by the ultrasonic probe and the designation unit based on the generated position data and angle data and the region-of-interest data generated by the region-of-interest data generation unit Means, and display means for displaying the position information created by the position information creating means.

  According to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, by specifying the region of interest of the image data displayed on the display unit, the specified region of interest and the position information of the ultrasonic probe can be displayed on the display unit. Thereby, since an ultrasonic probe can be easily moved to a desired region of interest, image diagnosis and treatment using ultrasonic waves can be performed quickly.

  Examples of the present invention will be described.

Embodiments of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 includes an ultrasonic probe 1 that transmits / receives ultrasonic waves to / from a subject P, transmission of an ultrasonic drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 1, and an ultrasonic reflected signal from the ultrasonic probe 1. Are provided, and a position detector 3 for detecting the position and angle of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  In addition, a data generation unit 4 that processes a reception signal from the transmission / reception unit 2 to generate B-mode data or Doppler mode data, and two-dimensional B-mode image data or Doppler from the B-mode data generated by the data generation unit 4. Image data processing unit 5 for generating mode image data, generating 3D image data from a plurality of generated B-mode image data, and display for generating position information for displaying the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the like And a position information creating unit 6.

  Furthermore, a display unit 7 for displaying image data such as 2D image data and 3D image data generated by the image data processing unit 5, position information generated by the display position information generating unit 6, and the display unit 7. Designation of a region of interest such as an affected part of image data displayed on the screen, setting of a position information display mode for displaying position information created by the display position information creating unit 6, scanning direction of ultrasonic waves, depth of field, etc. An operation unit 8 for setting shooting conditions including scanning information, inputting various command signals, and the like, and a system control unit 9 for controlling the above-described units in an integrated manner are provided.

  The ultrasonic probe 1 performs ultrasonic wave transmission / reception by bringing the tip of the subject P into contact with the body surface of the subject P, and has a plurality (N) of piezoelectric vibrators arranged one-dimensionally. Yes. This piezoelectric vibrator is an electroacoustic transducer, which converts an electric pulse (ultrasonic drive signal) into an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave) at the time of transmission, and an ultrasonic reflected wave (from the subject P at reception) ( It has a function of converting received ultrasonic waves into electrical signals (ultrasound received signals).

  The transmission / reception unit 2 includes a transmission unit 21 that generates an ultrasonic drive signal for generating transmission ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic probe 1 and a plurality of channels (N channels) of ultrasonic waves obtained from the piezoelectric vibrator of the ultrasonic probe 1. And a receiving unit 22 that performs phasing addition on the received signal.

  The transmission unit 21 generates a rate pulse that determines the repetition period (Tr) of the ultrasonic pulse radiated to the subject, and a focusing delay time and a scanning direction (θ1) for focusing the ultrasonic wave to a predetermined depth during transmission. To θK), the deflection delay time for transmitting the ultrasonic wave is given to the rate pulse, and then the N piezoelectric vibrators built in the ultrasonic probe 1 are driven and transmitted to the subject P. An ultrasonic driving pulse for emitting ultrasonic waves is generated.

  The reception unit 22 amplifies a minute ultrasonic reception signal from the ultrasonic probe 1 to ensure a sufficient S / N, and focuses reception ultrasonic waves from a predetermined depth on the ultrasonic reception signal. N channel from the piezoelectric vibrator after giving a focusing delay time for obtaining a narrow and narrow receiving beam width and a deflection delay time for setting the ultrasonic wave receiving directivity in the scanning direction (θ1 to θK) Are combined into one by phasing and adding.

  The position detection unit 3 includes a transmitter 31 that generates a magnetic field, a receiver 32 that detects a magnetic field generated by the transmitter 31, and a position signal processing unit 33 that generates position data and angle data of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a vertical cross section of the magnetic field distributed in the space above the floor when the transmitter 31 is arranged on the floor. The transmitter 31 is disposed in the vicinity of the subject P and forms a magnetic field from the center of the magnetic field toward the outside. The ultrasonic inspection of the subject P is performed in a magnetic field area 34 indicated by oblique lines where the receiver 32 can accurately detect the magnetic field of the transmitter 31.

  The receiver 32 is attached to the ultrasonic probe 1, detects a three-dimensional magnetic field generated by the transmitter 31, and outputs it to the position signal processing unit 33.

  The position signal processing unit 33 generates position data and angle data in the space of the ultrasonic probe 1 in the magnetic field area 34 based on the detection signal of the receiver 32 with the transmitter 31 as a reference. Then, the generated position data and angle data are output to the system control unit 9.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the data generation unit 4 includes a B mode data generation unit 41 that generates B mode data from the ultrasonic reception signal output from the reception unit 22 of the transmission / reception unit 2, and Doppler mode data that generates Doppler mode data. A generation unit 42 and a data storage unit 43 that stores B-mode data generated by the B-mode data generation unit 41, Doppler mode data generated by the Doppler mode data generation unit 42, and the like are provided.

  The B-mode data generation unit 41 performs envelope detection on the phase-added ultrasonic reception signal from the reception unit 22 and then performs logarithmic conversion. Then, the logarithmically converted signal is converted into a digital signal to generate B-mode data, and the generated B-mode data is output to the data storage unit 43.

  The Doppler mode data generation unit 42 detects the Doppler shift frequency for the ultrasonic reception signal subjected to phasing addition from the reception unit 22 and converts it to a digital signal, and then extracts only blood flow information and extracts the blood flow information. Autocorrelation processing is performed on the Doppler signal. Then, based on the autocorrelation processing result, an average blood flow velocity value, a dispersion value, and the like are calculated to generate Doppler mode data, and the generated Doppler mode data is output to the data storage unit 43.

  The data storage unit 43 supplies each data such as the B mode data output from the B mode data generation unit 41 and the Doppler mode data output from the Doppler data generation unit 42 from the system control unit 9 corresponding to each data. Scanning information such as the scanning direction of ultrasonic waves and the depth of field, position data generated by the position detector 3 and angle data are added and stored sequentially.

  FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of the B-mode data stored in the data storage unit 43. The vertical axis corresponds to the scanning directions θ1 to θK, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the ultrasonic wave transmission / reception direction. Yes. Here, for example, a B-mode image for one frame corresponding to an imaging region formed by ultrasonic scanning in the scanning directions θ1 to θK and ultrasonic transmission / reception to a predetermined depth of field in each of the scanning directions θ1 to θK. An example is shown in which K pieces of B-mode data A1 to AK necessary for data generation are stored.

  The B-mode data A1 stores the pixels a11 to a1L generated by ultrasonic transmission / reception in the first scanning direction (θ1), and scanning information including time information regarding the first scanning direction at the head portion thereof. a10a, and position data and angle data a10b of the ultrasonic probe 1 in the first scanning direction from the position detector 3 are stored.

  Similarly, the B mode data A2 to AK includes scanning information a20a to aK0a, position data and angle data a20b to aK0b, and pixels a21 to aKL with respect to the second scanning direction (θ2) to the Kth scanning direction (θK). Saved.

  Note that B-mode data B1 to BK necessary for generating B-mode image data in the subsequent frames and the like are stored following the B-mode data AK in the Kth scanning direction (θK) of the data storage unit 43. .

  Returning to FIG. 1, the image data processing unit 5 reads each data from the data storage unit 43 of the data generation unit 4 to generate image data, and the image data generated by the image data generation unit 51. And a combining unit 52 that combines the position information created by the display position information creating unit 6.

  The image data generation unit 51 reads pixels, scanning information, position data, and angle data of B-mode data corresponding to, for example, the first to Kth scanning directions θ1 to θK for one frame from the data storage unit 43. B-mode image data representing a tomographic image of the subject P is generated by representing the scanning direction on the horizontal axis and representing each pixel in each scanning direction on the vertical axis. Then, the generated B-mode image data is output to the combining unit 52, and the scanning information, position data, and angle data of the B-mode image data are output to the display position information creating unit 6.

  Further, by reading the Doppler mode data from the data storage unit 43, the time is represented on the horizontal axis, and the Doppler mode data is represented on the vertical axis, the blood flow velocity at the designated position on the cross section of the subject P is expressed over time. Doppler mode image data is generated. Then, the generated Doppler mode image data is output to the synthesizing unit 52, and scanning information, position data, and angle data of the Doppler mode image data are output to the display position information creating unit 6.

  Further, three-dimensional image data is generated from the generated plurality of B-mode image data using the scanning information, position data, and angle data of each B-mode image data. Then, the generated 3D image data is output to the combining unit 52, and the scanning information, position data, and angle data of the 3D image data are output to the display position information creating unit 6.

  The combining unit 52 outputs image data such as B-mode image data, Doppler mode image data, and three-dimensional image data output from the image data generation unit 51 to the display unit 7. Further, the image data output from the image data generation unit 51 is combined with position information representing the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 or the like corresponding to the image data output from the display position information generation unit 6 to display the display unit. 7 is output.

  The display position information creation unit 6 includes a region-of-interest data generation unit 61 that generates region-of-interest data based on the scanning information, position data, and angle data output from the image data generation unit 51 of the image data processing unit 5. The region-of-interest data storage unit 62 that stores the region-of-interest data generated by the region-of-interest data generation unit 61, and the region-of-interest data stored during the examination of the subject P are read from the region-of-interest data storage unit 62 to obtain position information. And a position information creation unit 63 for creating

  The region-of-interest data generation unit 61 generates shooting region data representing the position of the shooting region in the space of the image data based on the scanning information, position data, and angle data of the image data output from the image data generation unit 51. To do. Then, the generated shooting area data and position data are output to the position information creation unit 63. Further, based on the generated shooting area data, the position in the space of the region of interest designated by a point or area from the operation unit 8 on the image data output from the image data generation unit 51 and displayed on the display unit 7 is represented. Generate region of interest data. Then, the generated region-of-interest data is stored in the region-of-interest data storage unit 62. The region-of-interest data storage unit 62 stores the region-of-interest data output from the region-of-interest data generation unit 61 for each examination.

  The position information creation unit 63 reads the region-of-interest data stored in the region-of-interest data storage unit 62 by the examination of the subject P. Next, based on the read region-of-interest data and the imaging region data and position data output from the region-of-interest data generation unit 61, the position information display mode (horizontal plane mode, vertical plane mode, first mode) set from the operation unit 8 is set. Position information (first position information, second position information, third position information, fourth position information, etc.) representing the region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 in accordance with the three-plane mode and the second three-plane mode). Position information). Then, the generated position information is output to the combining unit 52 of the image data processing unit 5.

  Here, when the position information display mode is the horizontal plane mode, first position information is created by projecting the positions of the designated region of interest, the ultrasonic probe 1 and the imaging region on the horizontal plane.

  When the position information display mode is the vertical plane mode, the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 are projected onto the first plane perpendicular to the central axis of the ultrasonic probe 1. 2 position information is created.

  Further, when the position information display mode is the first three-plane mode, the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 are set on the horizontal plane, on the second plane perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and on the horizontal plane and Third position information projected on a third plane that is perpendicular to the second plane is created.

  Furthermore, when the position information display mode is the second three-surface mode, the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 are set on the first plane, which is perpendicular to the first plane. And fourth position information projected onto a fifth plane perpendicular to the first and second planes.

  The display unit 7 includes a CRT, a liquid crystal panel, and the like, converts the image data output from the combining unit 52 of the image data processing unit 5 into a video signal by D / A conversion and television format conversion, and displays the video signal.

  The operation unit 8 includes input devices such as a switch, a keyboard, a trackball, a mouse, and a touch screen. Then, using these, an inspection start and inspection end operation, a region of interest designation operation, and a position information display mode setting operation are performed. Also, setting operations such as subject information of subject P, imaging conditions such as depth of field, scanning line density, and image data display mode are performed.

  The system control unit 9 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and stores various input information and selection information supplied from the operation unit 8 in the storage circuit. The CPU controls each unit such as the transmission / reception unit 2, the position detection unit 3, the data generation unit 4, the image data processing unit 5, and the display position information creation unit 6 based on these pieces of information and the entire system. To do.

Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 in the examination of the subject P. The operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 places the transmitter 31 of the position detection unit 3 in the vicinity below the bed on which the subject P is placed in the supine position. Then, by setting the imaging condition, the subject information of the subject P, the image data display mode, for example, the B mode and the position information display mode from the operation unit 8 and performing the examination start operation, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 starts the examination of the subject P using ultrasonic waves (step S1).

  Based on input information such as subject information, imaging conditions, B mode, horizontal plane mode, and the like supplied from the operation unit 8, the system control unit 9 transmits and receives the transmission / reception unit 2, position detection unit 3, data generation unit 4, and image data processing. The unit 5 and the display position information creation unit 6 are controlled.

  Then, by applying the ultrasonic probe 1 to the body surface of the subject P, the B-mode data generation unit 41 of the data generation unit 4 generates B-mode data from the reception signal received from the reception unit 22 of the transmission / reception unit 2. To the data storage unit 43.

  On the other hand, the receiver 32 of the position detection unit 3 detects the magnetic field generated by the transmitter 31 and outputs the detection signal to the position signal processing unit 33. The position signal processing unit 33 generates position data and angle data based on the detection signal output from the receiver 32 and outputs the position data and the angle data to the system control unit 9.

  The data storage unit 43 sequentially stores B mode data output from the B mode data generation unit 41, scanning information corresponding to the B mode data supplied from the system control unit 9, position data, and angle data.

  The image data generation unit 51 of the image data processing unit 5 reads out the B mode data pixels, scanning information, position data, and angle data from the data storage unit 43 to generate B mode image data. Then, the generated B-mode image data is output to the combining unit 52 and the scanning information, position data, and angle data are output to the region-of-interest data generation unit 61 of the display position information creation unit 6.

  The region-of-interest data generation unit 61 generates shooting region data from the scanning information, position data, and angle data output from the image data generation unit 51, and outputs the generated shooting region data and position data to the position information generation unit 63. To do.

  Since the region-of-interest data storage unit 62 does not store the region-of-interest data in the examination of the subject P, the position information creation unit 63 is based on the imaging region data and the position data output from the region-of-interest data generation unit 61. First position information not including the position of the region of interest is generated and output to the synthesis unit 52. The synthesizing unit 52 synthesizes the first position information output from the position information creating unit 63 and the B-mode image data output from the image data generating unit 51 and displays them on the display unit 7 in real time (step S2). .

  In order to search for an affected part such as a tumor necessary for diagnosis, the operator sets the ultrasonic probe 1 perpendicularly to a horizontal plane, for example, and moves while touching the body surface of the subject P. When B mode image data including affected area data is displayed on the display unit 7, if a region of interest designating operation for designating the position of affected area data is performed from the operation unit 8, the region of interest data generation unit 61 is performed. Generates imaging area data based on the scanning information, position data, and angle data of the B-mode image data including the affected area data output from the image data generation unit 51, and the generated imaging area data and position data are The information is output to the information creation unit 63. Moreover, the region-of-interest data of the region of interest designated based on the generated imaging region data is generated and stored in the region-of-interest data storage unit 62 (step S3).

  The position information creating unit 63 reads the region-of-interest data from the region-of-interest data storage unit 62 after the region-of-interest specifying operation has been performed. Next, first position information is created based on the read region-of-interest data and the imaging region data and position data output from the region-of-interest data generation unit 61. Then, the generated first position information is output to the combining unit 52. The combining unit 52 combines the first position information output from the position information creating unit 63 and the B-mode image data corresponding to the first position information output from the image data generating unit 51 to display the display unit 7. (Step S4).

  Further, an operation of moving the ultrasonic probe 1 in a state where it is placed on the body surface of the subject P in order to search for the affected part is performed. If B-mode image data including affected area data is not displayed on the display unit 7 (No in step S5), the process proceeds to step S6. If B-mode image data including affected area data is displayed (Yes in step S5), the process returns to step S3.

  After “No” in step S5, for example, the affected part A, the affected part B, and the affected part C are found from the subject P, and the first position information is displayed on the display unit 7 together with the B-mode image data including the data of the affected part C. The

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of B-mode image data including the data of the affected part C displayed on the display unit 7 and the first position information. The screen 71 displays B-mode image data 72 including affected part C data 73 that is an affected part C of the subject P, and first position information 53 when the B-mode image data 72 is generated.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the first position information 53 includes a probe marker 57 indicating a position on the horizontal plane on which the ultrasonic probe 1 is projected when the B-mode image data 72 is generated, and B-mode image data 72. An imaging region marker 58 representing the position on the horizontal plane where the imaging region is projected is displayed. In addition, region-of-interest markers 54, 55, and 56 representing the positions on the horizontal plane on which the regions of interest of the affected areas A, B, and C are projected are displayed.

  Since the imaging region is set perpendicular to the horizontal plane by setting the central axis of the ultrasonic probe 1 perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the probe marker 57 is displayed superimposed on the imaging region marker 58. Further, since the probe marker 57 and the region-of-interest marker 56 of the affected part C are at the same position in the horizontal plane of FIG. 6, the region-of-interest marker 56 is displayed superimposed on the probe marker 57.

  Here, by performing a distance display operation from the operation unit 8, the position information creation unit 63 obtains each distance indicated by an arrow between the probe marker 57 and each region of interest marker 54, 55, 56 on the horizontal plane. Then, “Ha” which is the distance between the obtained probe marker 57 and the region-of-interest marker 54 of the affected part A, “Hb” which is the distance between the probe marker 57 and the region-of-interest marker 55 of the affected part B, and the probe marker 57. “Hc” that is the distance between the region-of-interest marker 56 and the region-of-interest marker 56 is displayed in the vicinity of each region-of-interest marker 54, 55, 56 in the first position information 53. Here, “Hc” is zero.

  The region-of-interest markers 54, 55, and 56 are color-coded according to the distances H1, H2, and H3 between the distal end of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the affected areas A, B, and C, as shown in FIG. Is displayed as an identification.

  As described above, the first position information obtained by projecting the ultrasonic probe 1 corresponding to the image data, the imaging region corresponding to the image data, and the position of the designated region of interest onto the horizontal plane together with the B-mode image data 72. It can be displayed on the display unit 7. Moreover, each distance between the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the position of each region of interest can be displayed. Furthermore, the position of each region of interest can be identified and displayed according to each distance. Thereby, it is possible to easily grasp the positional relationship between all designated regions of interest and the ultrasonic probe 1.

  Here, in a state where the ultrasound probe 1 is perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the body surface of the subject P is moved from the position shown in FIG. 5 in the direction of the arrow L1, and the first position information on the screen 71 of the display unit 7 is displayed. When the display area 7 is moved to a position away from each region-of-interest marker 54, 55, 56 displayed in 53, the B-mode image data and the first position information at the moved position are displayed on the display unit 7.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of B-mode image data and first position information displayed on the display unit 7 after the ultrasonic probe 1 is moved. On this screen 71a, B-mode image data 72a and first position information 53a not including data of the affected areas A, B, and C at the position where the ultrasonic probe 1 has moved are displayed.

  In the first position information 53a, a probe marker 57a corresponding to the moved ultrasonic probe 1 and an imaging region marker 58a corresponding to the imaging region of the B-mode image data 72a are displayed. In addition, region of interest markers 54, 55, and 56 are displayed. Further, “Ha1”, “Hb1”, and “Hc1”, which are distances indicated by arrows between the probe marker 57 a and the region-of-interest markers 54, 55, 56 in the horizontal plane, are the respective region-of-interest markers 54, 55, 56. Displayed in the vicinity.

  In this way, by displaying the first position information 53 on the display unit 7, the position of the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be grasped. Can be moved easily. In particular, it is effective when the body surface of the subject P that moves by applying the ultrasonic probe 1 is horizontal.

  Further, when the ultrasonic probe 1 of FIG. 5 is tilted from a state perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the B-mode image data and the first position information at the tilted angle are displayed on the display unit 7.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of B-mode image data and first position information displayed on the display unit 7 when the ultrasonic probe 1 is tilted. On this screen 71b, for example, B-mode image data 72b that does not include data of the affected part C at an angle at which the ultrasonic probe 1 is inclined in the direction of the arrow R1, and first position information 53b corresponding to the B-mode image data 72b are displayed. Is displayed.

  The first position information 53b includes the probe marker 57 corresponding to the ultrasonic probe 1 that maintains the same position even when tilted in the R1 direction, and the B-mode image data 72b at an angle tilted in the RI direction. An imaging region marker 58b corresponding to the region is displayed. Further, each region of interest marker 54, 55, 56, “Ha”, “Hb”, “Hc” is displayed.

  In this way, by displaying the first position information 53 on the display unit 7, the position of the designated region of interest, the position of the ultrasonic probe 1, and the position of the imaging region at this position can be grasped. The ultrasonic probe 1 can be easily tilted in the direction of a desired region of interest.

  Further, when an operation for setting the probe marker 57 centered on the first position information 53 on the screen 71 in FIG. 5 is performed from the operation unit 8 in a state where the ultrasonic probe 1 is perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the display unit 7, the first position information in which the B-mode image data 72 and the probe marker 57 are set at the center is displayed.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first position information screen in which B-mode image data 72 and probe markers 57 displayed on the display unit 7 are set at the center. On this screen 71c, B-mode image data 72 and first position information 53c set with the probe marker 57 as the center are displayed.

  In the first position information 53c, a probe marker 57c in which the probe marker 57 has moved, for example, a distance H in the direction of the arrow L2 is displayed at the center. Further, the imaging region marker 58c in which the imaging region marker 58 of the first position information 53 has moved the distance H in the L2 direction, and each region of interest marker in which each of the region of interest markers 54, 55, and 56 has moved the distance H in the L2 direction. 54c, 55c, and 56c are displayed. Further, “Ha”, “Hb”, and “Hc” are displayed in the vicinity of each region-of-interest marker 54c, 55c, 56c.

  As described above, the first position information 53 displayed on the screen 71 of the display unit 7 is referred to, and the ultrasonic probe 1 is moved to each designated region of interest to be included in the B-mode image data. The data of each affected part A, B, C is displayed on the display unit 7 for detailed observation. When the examination end operation is performed from the operation unit 8 after completing the examination of the subject P, the system control unit 9 includes the transmission / reception unit 2, the position detection unit 3, the data generation unit 4, the image data processing unit 5, and the display. The operation of each unit of the position information creating unit 6 is stopped. Then, the examination of the subject P by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 ends (step S6 in FIG. 4).

  Next, an example of the second to fourth position information when the position information display mode is the vertical plane mode, the first three plane mode, and the second three plane mode will be described with reference to FIGS. To do.

  First, the second position information will be described. For example, when the B-mode image data 72b and the first position information 53b are displayed on the screen 71b shown in FIG. 9 of the display unit 7, an operation for setting the position information display mode to the vertical plane mode from the operation unit 8 is performed. As a result, the B-mode image data 72b and the second position information are displayed on the display unit 7.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of B-mode image data 72b and second position information displayed on the display unit 7. The screen 71d displays B-mode image data 72b and second position information 59 when the B-mode image data 72b is generated.

  In the second position information 59, a probe marker 57d representing the position on the first plane where the ultrasonic probe 1 is projected when the B-mode image data 72b is generated is displayed. In addition, each region-of-interest marker 54d, 55d, 56d representing the position on the first plane where the region of interest of each affected area A, B, C is projected is displayed. Further, in the vicinity of each region-of-interest marker 54d, 55d, 56d, “Ha2” that is the distance between the probe marker 57d and the region-of-interest marker 54d, and “Hb2” that is the distance between the probe marker 57d and the region-of-interest marker 55d. , And “Hc2”, which is the distance between the probe marker 57d and the region of interest marker 56d, is displayed. The region-of-interest markers 54d, 55d, and 56d are identified and displayed according to the distances H1, H2, and H3 between the distal end portion of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the regions of interest of the affected parts A, B, and C.

  In this way, by displaying the second position information 59 on the display unit 7, the position of the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be grasped. Can be moved easily. In particular, it is effective when the body surface of the subject P that moves by applying the ultrasonic probe 1 is not horizontal.

  Next, the third position information will be described. For example, when the B-mode image data 72b and the first position information 53b are displayed on the screen 71b shown in FIG. 9 of the display unit 7, the position information display mode is set to the first three-plane mode from the operation unit 8. When the operation is performed, the B-mode image data 72b and the third position information are displayed on the display unit 7.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of B-mode image data 72b and third position information displayed on the display unit 7. The screen 71e displays B-mode image data 72b and third position information 60 when the B-mode image data 72b is generated. The third position information 60 includes horizontal plane position information 74, second plane position information 75, and third plane position information 76.

  In the horizontal plane position information 74, as shown in FIG. 13, the probe marker 57 obtained by removing the imaging area marker 58b from the first position information 53b, the region-of-interest markers 54, 55, 56, “Ha”, “Hb”, “Hc” is displayed.

  In the second plane position information 75, a probe marker 57e representing the position on the second plane on which the ultrasonic probe 1 is projected when the B-mode image data 72b is generated is displayed. In addition, each region of interest marker 54e, 55e, 56e representing the position on the second plane where the region of interest of each affected area A, B, C is projected is displayed. Further, in the vicinity of each region of interest marker 54e, 55e, 56e, “Ha3”, “Hb3”, “Hc3” are the distances indicated by arrows between the probe marker 57e and each region of interest marker 54e, 55e, 56e. Is displayed.

  In the third plane position information 76, a probe marker 57f representing the position on the third plane where the ultrasonic probe 1 is projected when the B-mode image data 72b is generated is displayed. In addition, each region-of-interest marker 54f, 55f, 56f representing the position on the third plane where the region of interest of each affected part A, B, C is projected is displayed. Further, in the vicinity of each region of interest marker 54f, 55f, 56f, “Ha4”, “Hb4”, “Hc4” are the distances indicated by arrows between the probe marker 57f and each region of interest marker 54f, 55f, 56f. Is displayed.

  The region-of-interest markers 54, 54e, 54f, the region-of-interest markers 55, 55e, 55f, and the region-of-interest markers 56, 56e, 56f of the horizontal plane position information 74 and the second and third plane position information 75, 76 are super Identification and display are performed according to the distances H1, H2, and H3 between the distal end portion of the acoustic probe 1 and the regions of interest of the affected areas A, B, and C, respectively.

  Next, the fourth position information will be described. For example, when the B-mode image data 72b and the second position information 59 are displayed on the screen 71d shown in FIG. 11 of the display unit 7, the position information display mode is set to the second three-plane mode from the operation unit 8. When the operation is performed, the B-mode image data 72b and the fourth position information are displayed on the display unit 7.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of B-mode image data 72 b and fourth position information displayed on the display unit 7. The screen 71f displays B-mode image data 72b and fourth position information 60a at the position where the B-mode image data 72b is generated. The fourth position information 60a includes second position information 59, fourth plane position information 75a, and fifth plane position information 76a.

  In the fourth plane position information 75a, a probe marker 57g representing the position on the fourth plane where the ultrasonic probe 1 is projected when the B-mode image data 72b is generated is displayed. In addition, each region-of-interest marker 54g, 55g, 56g representing the position on the fourth plane where the region of interest of each affected area A, B, C is projected is displayed. Further, in the vicinity of each region of interest marker 54g, 55g, 56g, “Ha5”, “Hb5”, “Hc5” are the distances indicated by arrows between the probe marker 57g and each region of interest marker 54g, 55g, 56g. Is displayed.

  In the fifth plane position information 76a, a probe marker 57h representing the position on the fifth plane where the ultrasonic probe 1 is projected when the B-mode image data 72b is generated is displayed. In addition, each region-of-interest marker 54h, 55h, 56h representing the position on the fifth plane where the region of interest of each affected part A, B, C is projected is displayed. Further, in the vicinity of each region of interest marker 54h, 55h, 56h, “Ha6”, “Hb6”, “Hc6”, which are the distances indicated by arrows between the probe marker 57h and each region of interest marker 54h, 55h, 56h. Is displayed.

  The region-of-interest markers 54d, 54g, 54h, the region-of-interest markers 55d, 55g, 55h, and the region-of-interest markers 56d, 56g, 56h of the second position information 59 and the fourth and fifth plane position information 75a, 76a are The identification display is performed according to the distances H1, H2, and H3 between the distal end portion of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the regions of interest of the affected areas A, B, and C, respectively.

  Thus, by displaying the third and fourth position information 60 and 60a, the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be displayed from three directions orthogonal to each other. Moreover, since the distance between the ultrasonic probe 1 and each region of interest can be displayed, the ultrasonic probe 1 can be easily moved to a desired region of interest.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and the first to fourth position information may be displayed on the display unit 7 together with the Doppler mode image data and the three-dimensional image data.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, by designating the region of interest of the image data displayed on the display unit 7 from the operation unit 8, together with the image data, the ultrasonic probe 1 corresponding to the image data, First position information obtained by projecting the imaging region corresponding to the image data and the position of the designated region of interest onto the horizontal plane can be displayed on the display unit 7. Further, the distance between the projected position of the ultrasound probe 1 and each region of interest is displayed, and the position of each region of interest is identified and displayed according to the distance between the ultrasound probe 1 and each region of interest. can do.

  Thereby, since the positions of the designated region of interest, the ultrasonic probe 1 and the imaging region can be easily grasped, the ultrasonic probe 1 can be easily moved and inclined to the desired region of interest.

  In addition to the image data, the second position information obtained by projecting the position of the ultrasound probe 1 corresponding to the image data and the designated region of interest onto the first plane can be displayed on the display unit 7. Further, the distance between the projected position of the ultrasound probe 1 and each region of interest is displayed, and the position of the region of interest is identified and displayed according to the distance between the ultrasound probe 1 and each region of interest. be able to.

  Thereby, since all the designated regions of interest and the positions of the ultrasonic probes 1 can be easily grasped, the ultrasonic probe 1 can be easily moved to a desired region of interest.

  Further, together with the image data, third position information obtained by projecting the positions of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the designated region of interest corresponding to the image data on the horizontal plane, the second plane, and the third plane is obtained. It can be displayed on the display unit 7. In addition, the position of the ultrasound probe 1 projected on each plane and the distance between each region of interest are displayed, and the position of the region of interest is identified according to the distance between the ultrasound probe 1 and each region of interest. Can be displayed.

  Furthermore, the image data and the fourth position projected on the first plane, the fourth plane, and the fifth plane are the positions of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the designated region of interest corresponding to the image data. Can be displayed on the display unit 7. Further, the position of the ultrasound probe 1 projected on each plane and the distance between each region of interest are displayed, and the position of the region of interest is identified according to the distance between the ultrasound probe 1 and each region of interest. Can be displayed.

  Thereby, since the designated region of interest and the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be easily grasped, the ultrasonic probe 1 can be easily moved to the desired region of interest.

  As described above, ultrasonic image diagnosis and treatment can be performed quickly.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the Example of the ultrasonic diagnosing device which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the vertical cross section of the magnetic field distributed in the space above a floor, when the transmitter which concerns on the Example of this invention is arrange | positioned on the floor. The figure which shows the example of a structure of the B mode data preserve | saved at the data storage part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The flowchart which shows operation | movement of the ultrasonic diagnosing device in the test | inspection of the subject based on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the screen of B mode image data containing the data of the affected part displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention, and 1st positional information. The figure which shows the horizontal surface on which the region of interest and the position of an ultrasonic probe which concern on the Example of this invention are projected. The figure which shows each distance between the front-end | tip part of the ultrasonic probe which concerns on the Example of this invention, and the region of interest of each affected part. The B-mode image data and the first position information displayed on the display unit when the ultrasound probe according to the embodiment of the present invention is horizontally moved on the body surface of the subject in a state of being perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The figure which shows an example of a screen. The figure which shows an example of the screen of B mode image data and 1st position information which are displayed on a display part, when making the ultrasonic probe which concerns on the Example of this invention incline from the state perpendicular | vertical to the horizontal surface. The figure which shows an example of the screen of the 1st positional information on which the B mode image data and probe marker which are displayed on the display part which concern on the Example of this invention were set centering. The figure which shows an example of the screen of B mode image data and 2nd positional information displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the screen of B mode image data and 3rd position information displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the detail of the 3rd position information displayed on the screen of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the screen of B mode image data and 4th positional information displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the detail of the 4th position information displayed on the screen of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

P Subject 1 Ultrasonic probe 2 Transmission / reception unit 3 Position detection unit 4 Data generation unit 5 Image data processing unit 6 Display position information creation unit 7 Display unit 8 Operation unit 9 System control unit 10 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 31 Transmitter 32 Receiver 33 Position signal processing unit 41 B mode data generation unit 42 Doppler mode data generation unit 43 Data storage unit 51 Image data generation unit 52 Composition unit 61 Region of interest data generation unit 62 Region of interest data storage unit 63 Position information generation unit

Claims (8)

An ultrasonic probe for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a subject;
Transmitting / receiving means for driving the ultrasonic probe to perform ultrasonic scanning on the subject;
Image data generating means for generating image data based on a received signal from the transmitting / receiving means;
Designating means for designating a region of interest in the image data generated by the image data generating means;
Position detecting means for detecting position and angle of the ultrasonic probe corresponding to the image data generated by the image data generating means to generate position data and angle data;
Region-of-interest data generation means for generating region-of-interest data of the region of interest specified by the specifying means based on the position data and angle data generated by the position detection means;
Position information of the region of interest specified by the ultrasonic probe and the specifying unit based on the position data and angle data generated by the position data generating unit and the region of interest data generated by the region of interest data generating unit Position information creating means for creating
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: display means for displaying position information created by the position information creating means.   The position information creation means creates first position information obtained by projecting the region of interest designated by the designation means, the ultrasonic probe, and the position of the imaging region taken from the position of the ultrasonic probe on a horizontal plane. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:   The position information creating means projects a second position obtained by projecting the region of interest designated by the designation means and the position of the ultrasonic probe onto a first plane perpendicular to the central axis of the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein information is created.   The position information creating means sets the region of interest specified by the specifying means and the position of the ultrasonic probe on a horizontal plane, on a second plane perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and on the horizontal plane and the second plane. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein third position information projected on a third plane perpendicular to the first plane is created.   The position information creating means sets the region of interest specified by the specifying means and the position of the ultrasonic probe to the first plane on a first plane perpendicular to the central axis of the ultrasonic probe. The fourth position information projected on a fourth plane perpendicular to the first plane and a fifth plane perpendicular to the first and fourth planes is created. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.   5. The ultrasonic wave according to claim 2, wherein a distance between the projected position of the ultrasonic probe and the position of the region of interest is displayed on the display means. Diagnostic device.   The position of the region of interest is identified and displayed on the display unit according to the distance between the position of the ultrasonic probe and the plurality of regions of interest specified by the specifying unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the image data generated by the image data generation unit together with the position information generated by the position information generation unit.

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