JP2015128471A - Ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus, image processing apparatus, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus that visually recognizes an imaging position where imaging is intended easily.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus includes a first display control part 16a and a second display control part 16b. The first display control part 16a disposes a probe mark corresponding to an imaging position where imaging is intended at a corresponding position on a body mark showing a subject schematically, and displays it. Upon acceptance of the end of imaging at the imaging position, the second display control part 16b displays end information indicating that the imaging at the imaging position has ended, in the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus, an image processing apparatus, and a program.

  Conventionally, an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus sometimes performs imaging at a plurality of imaging positions in a single examination. For example, in a health checkup, an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus performs imaging at a plurality of imaging positions such as the liver and kidney as an abdominal examination.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-136044

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus, an image processing apparatus, and a program capable of easily recognizing a photographing position scheduled for photographing.

  The ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus of the embodiment includes a first display control unit and a second display control unit. The first display control unit arranges and displays the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position scheduled for imaging at a corresponding position on the body mark schematically showing the subject. When the second display control unit accepts the end of shooting at the shooting position, the second display control unit displays end information indicating that shooting at the shooting position has ended on the probe mark corresponding to the shooting position.

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an operation unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the first embodiment (part 1). FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a view for explaining the first embodiment (No. 3). FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the first embodiment (No. 4). FIG. 8 is a diagram (No. 5) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the first embodiment (No. 6). FIG. 10 is a view for explaining the first embodiment (No. 7). FIG. 11 is a view for explaining the first embodiment (No. 8). FIG. 12 is a diagram (No. 9) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram (No. 10) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a view for explaining the first embodiment (No. 11). FIG. 15 is a diagram (No. 1) for describing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram (No. 2) for describing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram (No. 3) for explaining the modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram (No. 4) for describing the modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 21 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining the second embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the second embodiment (No. 2). FIG. 23 is a diagram (No. 1) for describing a modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 24 is a diagram (No. 2) for describing a modification of the second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus, an image processing apparatus, and a program according to embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
First, the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes an ultrasonic probe 1, a monitor 2, an operation unit 3, and an apparatus main body 10.

  The ultrasonic probe 1 has a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators, and the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators generate ultrasonic waves based on a drive signal supplied from a transmission unit 11 included in the apparatus main body 10 to be described later. The ultrasonic probe 1 receives a reflected wave from the subject P and converts it into an electrical signal. The ultrasonic probe 1 includes a matching layer and an acoustic lens provided in the piezoelectric vibrator, and a backing material that prevents propagation of ultrasonic waves from the piezoelectric vibrator to the rear. The ultrasonic probe 1 is detachably connected to the apparatus main body 10.

  When ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 1 to the subject P, the transmitted ultrasonic waves are reflected one after another at the discontinuous surface of the acoustic impedance in the body tissue of the subject P, and the ultrasonic probe is used as a reflected wave signal. 1 is received by a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators. The amplitude of the received reflected wave signal depends on the difference in acoustic impedance at the discontinuous surface where the ultrasonic wave is reflected. Note that the reflected wave signal when the transmitted ultrasonic pulse is reflected on the moving blood flow or the surface of the heart wall depends on the velocity component of the moving body in the ultrasonic transmission direction due to the Doppler effect. And undergoes a frequency shift (Doppler shift).

  In this embodiment, even when the subject P is scanned two-dimensionally by the ultrasonic probe 1 that is a one-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are arranged in a row, the one-dimensional ultrasonic wave is used. An object P is obtained by an ultrasonic probe 1 that mechanically swings a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators of the probe or an ultrasonic probe 1 that is a two-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are arranged in a two-dimensional grid. Even when scanning in three dimensions, it is applicable.

  The monitor 2 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for the operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 to input various setting requests using the operation unit 3, an ultrasonic image generated in the apparatus main body 10, etc. Is displayed.

  The operation unit 3 displays a GUI for accepting input of various instructions from the operator. Various instructions received by the operation unit 3 include setting of scanning condition parameters and setting of an imaging plan described in detail below. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation unit 3 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a TCS (Touch Command Screen) 3 a capable of displaying a GUI is arranged in the operation unit 3. The TCS 3a can display a GUI independent of the monitor 2. For this reason, for example, the operator can set and change, for example, a scanning condition parameter or the like by operating the GUI displayed on the TCS 3a while confirming the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2. .

  Although not shown in FIG. 2, a hardware operation device is arranged in the operation unit 3, and the operator is assigned a function linked to the GUI while looking at the GUI displayed on the TCS 3 a. Various instructions are input by operating the operation device. The operation device is, for example, a trackball, a changeover switch, a button switch, a toggle switch, a keyboard, a pedal switch, or the like.

  The TCS 3a may display a software switch as one of the GUIs and accept an input by touching the software switch. In this case, for example, the operator inputs various instructions by directly touching the GUI displayed on the TCS 3a. Functions are assigned to software switches and hardware operation devices by operators, service personnel, and the like.

  The operation unit 3 receives various instructions from the operator of the ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus 100 and transfers the received settings and various instructions to the apparatus main body 10. Although FIG. 2 illustrates the case where the operation unit 3 is integrated with the apparatus main body 10, the operation unit 3 may be a portable device and may be provided independently of the apparatus main body 10.

  The apparatus main body 10 is an apparatus that generates an ultrasonic image based on the reflected wave received by the ultrasonic probe 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the apparatus body 10 includes a transmission unit 11, a reception unit 12, a B-mode processing unit 13, a Doppler processing unit 14, an image generation unit 15, a display control unit 16, and an internal storage unit. 17, an image memory 18, and a control unit 19.

  The transmission unit 11 includes a trigger generation circuit, a transmission delay circuit, a pulsar circuit, and the like, and supplies a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 1. The pulsar circuit repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming transmission ultrasonic waves at a predetermined rate frequency. The transmission delay circuit also sets the delay time for each piezoelectric vibrator necessary for determining the transmission directivity by converging the ultrasonic wave generated from the ultrasonic probe 1 into a beam shape at each rate at which the pulsar circuit generates. Give to pulse. The trigger generation circuit applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to the ultrasonic probe 1 at a timing based on the rate pulse. In other words, the delay circuit arbitrarily adjusts the transmission direction from the piezoelectric vibrator surface by changing the delay time given to each rate pulse.

  The transmission unit 11 has a function capable of instantaneously changing a transmission frequency, a transmission drive voltage, and the like in order to execute a predetermined scan sequence based on an instruction from the control unit 19 described later. In particular, the change of the transmission drive voltage is realized by a linear amplifier type transmission circuit capable of instantaneously switching its value or a mechanism for electrically switching a plurality of power supply units.

  The receiving unit 12 includes an amplifier circuit, an A / D converter, an adder, and the like, and performs various processes on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 1 to generate reflected wave data. The amplifier circuit amplifies the reflected wave signal for each channel and performs gain correction processing. The A / D converter performs A / D conversion on the gain-corrected reflected wave signal and gives a delay time necessary for determining reception directivity to the digital data. The adder performs an addition process of the reflected wave signal processed by the A / D converter to generate reflected wave data. By the addition processing of the adder, the reflection component from the direction corresponding to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signal is emphasized.

  As described above, the transmission unit 11 and the reception unit 12 control transmission directivity and reception directivity in transmission / reception of ultrasonic waves.

  Here, when the ultrasonic probe 1 is capable of three-dimensional scanning, the transmission unit 11 transmits a three-dimensional ultrasonic beam from the ultrasonic probe 1 to the subject P, and the reception unit 12 receives the ultrasonic probe. It is also possible to generate three-dimensional reflected wave data from the three-dimensional reflected wave signal received by 1.

  The B mode processing unit 13 receives the reflected wave data from the receiving unit 12 and performs logarithmic amplification, envelope detection processing, and the like, and data (“B mode data” or “ B-mode image data ") is generated.

  The Doppler processing unit 14 performs frequency analysis on velocity information from the reflected wave data received from the receiving unit 12, extracts blood flow, tissue, and contrast agent echo components due to the Doppler effect, and moving body information such as average velocity, dispersion, and power. Is extracted for multiple points ("Doppler data" or "Doppler image data"). Specifically, the Doppler processing unit 14 generates Doppler data obtained by extracting an average speed, a variance value, a power value, and the like over multiple points as motion information of the moving body. More specifically, the Doppler processing unit 14 generates color Doppler data for generating a color Doppler image indicating the dynamics of blood flow or tissue Doppler data for generating a tissue Doppler image indicating the dynamics of the tissue. .

  Note that the B-mode processing unit 13 and the Doppler processing unit 14 according to the present embodiment can process both two-dimensional reflected wave data and three-dimensional reflected wave data. That is, the B-mode processing unit 13 can generate two-dimensional B-mode data from two-dimensional reflected wave data, and can also generate three-dimensional B-mode data from three-dimensional reflected wave data. The Doppler processing unit 14 can also generate two-dimensional Doppler data from two-dimensional reflected wave data, and can generate three-dimensional Doppler data from three-dimensional reflected wave data.

  The image generation unit 15 generates an ultrasonic image for display using data generated by the B-mode processing unit 13 and the Doppler processing unit 14. That is, the image generation unit 15 generates a B-mode image in which the intensity of the reflected wave is expressed by luminance from the B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing unit 13. In addition, the image generation unit 15 is an average velocity image, a dispersed image, a power image, or a combination image representing moving body information (blood flow movement information or tissue movement information) from the Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing unit 14. The Doppler image (color Doppler image or tissue Doppler image) is generated.

  Here, the image generation unit 15 generally converts (scan converts) a scanning line signal sequence of ultrasonic scanning into a scanning line signal sequence of a video format typified by a television or the like, and serves as a display image. Generate an ultrasound image. Specifically, the image generation unit 15 generates an ultrasonic image as a display image by performing coordinate conversion in accordance with the ultrasonic scanning mode by the ultrasonic probe 1. That is, the data generated by the B-mode processing unit 13 and the Doppler processing unit 14 is ultrasonic image data before the scan conversion process, and the data generated by the image generation unit 15 is an ultrasonic wave for display after the scan conversion process. Image data. Various data generated by the B mode processing unit 13 and the Doppler processing unit 14 are also referred to as raw data.

  In addition to scan conversion, the image generation unit 15 performs various image processing, such as image processing (smoothing processing) for regenerating an average value image of luminance using a plurality of image frames after scan conversion, for example. Then, image processing (edge enhancement processing) using a differential filter is performed in the image. In addition, the image generation unit 15 generates a composite image in which character information and scales of various parameters are combined with the ultrasonic image data.

  Further, the image generating unit 15 generates three-dimensional B-mode image data by performing coordinate conversion on the three-dimensional B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing unit 13. In addition, the image generation unit 15 generates three-dimensional Doppler image data by performing coordinate conversion on the three-dimensional Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing unit 14. The image generation unit 15 generates “3D B-mode image data or 3D Doppler image data” as “3D ultrasonic image data (volume data)”.

  Further, the image generation unit 15 performs a rendering process on the volume data in order to generate various two-dimensional image data for displaying the volume data on the monitor 2. The rendering process performed by the image generation unit 15 includes, for example, a process of generating MPR image data from volume data by performing a cross-section reconstruction method (MPR: Multi Planer Reconstruction). The rendering process performed by the image generation unit 15 includes, for example, a volume rendering (VR) process that generates two-dimensional image data reflecting three-dimensional information.

  In addition, the image generation unit 15 is equipped with a storage memory for storing image data, and can perform reconstruction processing of a three-dimensional image. Further, for example, an operator can call up an image recorded during an examination after diagnosis from a storage memory mounted on the image generation unit 15.

  The display control unit 16 includes a first display control unit 16a and a second display control unit 16b, and displays various types of information for supporting shooting by the operator on the TCS 3a of the monitor 2 or the operation unit 3. . Details of the first display control unit 16a and the second display control unit 16b will be described later.

  The internal storage unit 17 stores various data such as a control program for performing ultrasonic transmission / reception, image processing and display processing, diagnostic information (for example, patient ID, doctor's findings, etc.), diagnostic protocol, and various body marks. The internal storage unit 17 is also used for storing images stored in the image memory 18 as necessary. The data stored in the internal storage unit 17 can be transferred to an external peripheral device via an interface (not shown).

  The image memory 18 stores the ultrasonic image and the composite image generated by the image generation unit 15. The image memory 18 can also store data (raw data) generated by the B-mode processing unit 13 and the Doppler processing unit 14. The image memory 18 can also store data that has been subjected to various types of image processing by the display control unit 16.

  The control unit 19 controls the entire processing of the ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus 100. Specifically, the control unit 19 transmits a transmission unit based on various setting requests such as a shooting plan input from the operator via the operation unit 3 and various control programs and various data read from the internal storage unit 17. 11, the receiving unit 12, the B-mode processing unit 13, the Doppler processing unit 14, the image generation unit 15, and the display control unit 16 are controlled. Further, the control unit 19 controls the monitor 2 and the TCS 3a of the operation unit 3 to display the ultrasonic image and the composite image stored in the image memory 18 and the GUI for the operator to specify various processes. .

  The overall configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment has been described above. In such a configuration, the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment captures an ultrasonic image by ultrasonic transmission / reception. Here, for example, the operator sets various conditions using the operation unit 3, places the ultrasonic probe 1 on the subject P, and transmits / receives ultrasonic waves. Then, the apparatus main body 10 generates ultrasonic image data, so that the operator can browse the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2.

  In such imaging by the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100, the first display control unit 16a supports the imaging by the operator by displaying the initial imaging position (hereinafter, “preset information”) on the TCS 3a. . Here, the preset information will be described first. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 may perform imaging at a plurality of imaging positions in an examination. For example, in a certain health checkup, the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 may perform imaging at three locations in the abdomen, and in another health checkup, the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 has two locations in the abdomen and one in the chest. There may be some shooting. In order to assist the operator in imaging at such a plurality of imaging positions, the internal storage unit 17 of the ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus 100 indicates the plurality of imaging positions and the position and orientation of the ultrasound probe at each imaging position. A plurality of patterns of information sets are stored in advance as “preset information”. The internal storage unit 17 stores preset information in association with the identifier. Then, the operator selects the preset information corresponding to the combination of the shooting positions to be inspected and photographed from the preset information of a plurality of patterns as the photographing plan before starting photographing, and selects the selected information via the operation unit 3. Enter the preset information identifier.

  Then, the first display control unit 16a causes the TCS 3a to display the preset information selected by the operator in the shooting plan. FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining the first embodiment. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, a case where preset information having three shooting positions is selected will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the first display control unit 16a causes the TCS 3a to display preset information in which the probe marks 51 to 53 are arranged on the body mark 50. Here, the body mark 50 is information that schematically shows the subject P, and the probe marks 51 to 53 are information that presents the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the imaging position to the operator.

  Subsequently, the operator starts shooting. Here, the operator refers to the preset information displayed on the TCS 3a, applies the ultrasonic probe 1 to the imaging position of the subject P, and selects a probe mark corresponding to the imaging position during imaging on the TCS 3a. Then, the second display control unit 16b displays the probe mark selected in the TCS 3a at a corresponding position on the body mark 62 being displayed on the monitor 2. FIG. 3 shows a case where the probe mark 51 is selected by the operator in the TCS 3a. In this case, the second display control unit 16 b displays the probe mark 63 on the body mark 62. The monitor 2 displays image data 60 photographed by the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 51. It should be noted that the probe mark selected by the TCS 3a is maintained in the state selected as the probe mark being photographed by the TCS 3a until the end of photographing at the photographing position corresponding to the probe mark is received.

  In addition, when the second display control unit 16b receives the end of shooting at any shooting position scheduled to be shot on the TCS 3a, the second display control unit 16b takes the shooting at the shooting position on the probe mark corresponding to the shooting position. Is displayed on the TCS 3a. As described above, the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 supports the shooting by the operator, so that the operator can prevent the shooting from being missed at the shooting position scheduled to be shot in the examination.

  Next, details of processing performed by the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 executes the following processing when receiving selection of preset information as an imaging plan. As shown in FIG. 4, the first display control unit 16a displays a body mark and a probe mark as preset information on the TCS 3a of the operation unit 3 based on the photographing plan (step S101).

  FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining the first embodiment. In FIG. 5, a case will be described in which preset information having three shooting positions scheduled for shooting in the examination is selected as the shooting plan. As shown in FIG. 5, the first display control unit 16a displays the body mark 50 and three probe marks (probe marks 51 to 53) superimposed on the body mark 50 on the TCS 3a. Here, the body mark 50 is information schematically showing the subject P, and the probe marks 51 to 53 show the operator the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the imaging position scheduled for imaging. Information.

  In addition, the first display control unit 16a further displays order information indicating the shooting order of the shooting positions scheduled to be shot in the examination. For example, the first display control unit 16 a displays the numbers (1) to (3) in the vicinity of the probe marks 51 to 53. These numbers are order information indicating the photographing order. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the first photographing is performed at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 51, the second photographing is performed at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 52, and the probe. This indicates that the third shooting is performed at the shooting position indicated by the mark 53. As described above, the first display control unit 16a sets the position of the ultrasound probe 1 at the imaging position and the corresponding position on the body mark 50 for each of the imaging positions scheduled for imaging in the inspection before the start of the inspection. Probe marks 51 to 53 indicating the direction are displayed on the TCS 3a. Although the case where there are three shooting positions will be described here, the number of shooting positions can be arbitrarily changed.

  Further, the first display control unit 16 a further displays the probe mark 54 outside the body mark 50 without being superimposed on the body mark 50. This probe mark 54 is a probe mark that is not included in the preset information selected at the time of shooting planning, and is a preliminary probe mark used when shooting is performed at a position other than the shooting position displayed as the preset information. For example, when the operator shoots a part suspected of being a tumor or the like by shooting while confirming the image data displayed on the monitor 2, the operator may perform additional shooting at a position other than the shooting position planned at the time of shooting planning. In this way, when additional shooting is performed at a position other than the shooting position indicated by the preset information, the probe mark 54 displayed outside the body mark 50 is used. The first display control unit 16a further displays (4) as the order information in the vicinity of the probe mark 54. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the first display control unit 16 a displays the probe marks 51 to 54 as white rectangular areas.

  Returning to FIG. Subsequent to step S101, the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 starts imaging (step S102). Thereby, the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 displays the captured ultrasonic image on the monitor 2 in real time. Then, the second display control unit 16b determines whether or not a touch operation has been received on the TCS 3a (step S103). Here, when it is determined that the touch operation is not received on the TCS 3a (No in step S103), the second display control unit 16b determines whether the touch operation is continuously received on the TCS 3a. On the other hand, when the second display control unit 16b determines that the touch operation has been accepted on the TCS 3a (Yes in step S103), it is determined whether or not the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position to be imaged is the target of the touch operation. Determination is made (step S104). Here, when the second display control unit 16b determines that the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position scheduled for imaging is the target of the touch operation (step S104, Yes), the process proceeds to step S107.

  On the other hand, when the second display control unit 16b does not determine that the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position to be imaged is the target of the touch operation (No in step S104), the second display control unit 16b accepts the movement of the preliminary probe mark. (Step S105). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the operator selects the probe mark 54 displayed outside the body mark 50 on the TCS 3 a in order to perform additional shooting outside the shooting position indicated by the preset information. Then, the probe mark 54 is moved to a position corresponding to the position to be photographed. As a result, the second controller 16b adds the position of the probe mark 54 to the imaging position scheduled for imaging (step S106). The second display control unit 16b proceeds to step S103 after step S106.

  Subsequently, in step S107, the second display control unit 16b accepts selection of a probe mark on the TCS 3a (step S107). Here, when there is a probe mark added at the imaging position scheduled to be imaged, the second display control unit 16b can accept the selection of the added probe mark. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the second display control unit 16 b accepts selection of the probe mark that is directly touched by directly touching any one of the probe marks 51 to 53 on the TCS 3 a.

  Then, the second display control unit 16b displays the probe mark selected on the TCS 3a on the monitor 2 (step S108). FIG. 6 is a diagram (part 3) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 6 shows an ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 when the second display control unit 16b receives the selection of the probe mark 51 shown in FIG. 5 on the TCS 3a. FIG. 6 shows a case where the monitor 2 is used by dividing the display area into a first display area 2a, a second display area 2b, and a third display area 2c. FIG. 6 shows a case where the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 captures B-mode image data.

  As illustrated in FIG. 6, the second display control unit 16 b displays an ultrasonic image including the B-mode image 60 and the shooting position information 61 in the second display area 2 b of the monitor 2. Here, the shooting position information 61 is information in which a probe mark associated with the shooting position being shot is arranged on the body mark displayed on the monitor 2. For example, the shooting position information 61 includes a body mark 62 and a probe mark 63. In the photographing position information 61 displayed on the monitor 2, the body mark 62 corresponds to the body mark 50 displayed on the TCS 3a, and the probe mark 63 corresponds to the body mark 51 displayed on the TCS 3a. That is, the shooting position information 61 displayed on the monitor 2 corresponds to the probe mark and the body mark 50 indicating the shooting position being shot out of the shooting positions scheduled to be shot displayed on the TCS 3a.

  Returning to FIG. By the way, when performing imaging, the operator may have difficulty in imaging at a planned imaging position depending on the body shape of the subject P, and may change the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1. In such a case, the operator performs an operation of reflecting the changed position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe on the probe mark displayed on the TCS 3a in order to record the changed imaging position. That is, the operator performs an operation of changing the position and orientation of the probe mark corresponding to the shooting position being shot among the probe marks displayed on the TCS 3a. For this reason, the second display control unit 16b determines whether or not an operation to change at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark has been received in the TCS 3a (step S109). If the second display control unit 16b determines that an operation to change at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark has not been accepted (No at Step S109), the process proceeds to Step S112. On the other hand, if the second display control unit 16b determines that an operation for changing at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark has been received (step S109, Yes), the position and / or orientation of the probe mark is changed (step S109). S110).

  FIG. 7 is a diagram (part 4) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a case where the probe mark 51 is selected by the TCS 3a in the state shown in FIG. 5 and an operation for changing the orientation of the probe mark 51 is accepted. As shown in FIG. 7, the second display control unit 16 b further displays the probe mark 51 a in which the orientation of the probe mark 51 is changed on the body mark 50 in the TCS 3 a. When the second display control unit 16b receives an operation of moving the probe mark 51 in parallel, the second display control unit 16b displays the probe mark 51a at the position where the probe mark 51 is moved in parallel in the TCS 3a.

  Returning to FIG. The second display control unit 16b displays the changed probe mark on the monitor 2 (step S111). FIG. 8 is a diagram (No. 5) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 8 shows a case where the orientation of the probe mark 51 on the TCS 3a is changed as shown in FIG. 7 in the state shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the second display control unit 16b further displays on the body mark 61 a probe mark 64 corresponding to the probe mark 51a on the TCS 3a shown in FIG.

  Returning to FIG. Subsequently, the second display control unit 16b determines whether or not a store of ultrasonic image data being captured has been received (step S112). Here, if the second display control unit 16b determines that the store is not received (No at Step S112), the process proceeds to Step S109. On the other hand, when the second display control unit 16b determines that the store has been received (step S112, Yes), the second display control unit 16b determines whether the shooting position during shooting is the shooting position of the preset information (step S113). In other words, the second control unit 16b determines whether the probe mark corresponding to the shooting position being shot is a probe mark included in the preset information selected at the time of shooting planning, or a probe added later to the shooting position to be shot. Determine if it is a mark. For example, when the preset information selected at the time of the imaging plan is the preset information shown in FIG. 5, the second display control unit 16b determines that the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position during imaging is any of the probe marks 51 to 53. If it is, it is determined that the shooting position is the shooting position of the preset information. Further, for example, in the case of the preset information illustrated in FIG. 5, the second display control unit 16 b determines the imaging position when the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position during imaging is a probe mark other than the probe marks 51 to 53. Is determined to be a shooting position different from the shooting position of the preset information.

  Here, when the second display control unit 16b determines that the shooting position during shooting is the shooting position of the preset information (step S113, Yes), the end information indicates that shooting at the shooting position has ended. Then, the color of the probe mark is changed to blue (step S114). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the second display control unit 16b changes the color of the probe mark 51a to blue (dot display in FIG. 7).

  On the other hand, when the second display control unit 16b determines that the shooting position during shooting is not the shooting position of the preset information (No in step S113), the preset display information set in advance in the probe mark at the shooting position. The probe mark color is changed to red as unscheduled end information indicating that shooting at a shooting position different from the shooting position has ended (step S115). FIG. 9 is a diagram (No. 6) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 9 shows a case where, after the photographing at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 51 is completed, the probe mark 54 is added to the photographing position to be photographed in step S106, and photographing is performed at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark. . In the example shown in FIG. 9, a case where photographing with the probe mark 54 is performed prior to photographing with the probe mark 52 and the probe mark 53 is shown. As shown in FIG. 9, the second display control unit 16b changes the color of the probe mark 54 to red (hatched display in FIG. 9), for example. When the probe mark 54 is selected, the first display control unit 16a newly displays the probe mark 55 on the outside of the body mark 50 for shooting at a shooting position that is not scheduled for shooting. In addition, the first display control unit 16 a further displays (5) as the order information in the vicinity of the probe mark 55.

  In parallel with the processing in step S114 and step S115, the control unit 19 assigns an identifier to the captured ultrasonic image data and stores it in the image memory 18. FIG. 10 is a diagram (No. 7) for explaining the first embodiment. In FIG. 10, a data structure in a case where ultrasonic image data is stored in the image memory 18 will be described. As shown in FIG. 10, the ultrasound image data is stored in the image memory 18 in association with an “examination ID” that identifies the examination and an “ultrasound image data ID” that identifies the ultrasound image data. .

  Here, the “ultrasound image data” is an ultrasound image displayed on the monitor 2 and includes, for example, a B-mode image 60 and shooting position information 61. Note that the ultrasonic image data includes an “apparatus ID” that identifies the imaged ultrasonic image diagnosis apparatus 100 in addition to an “inspection ID” that identifies the examination and an “ultrasound image data ID” that identifies the ultrasonic image data. “ID” may be further associated with each other and stored in the image memory 18. Further, if the ultrasonic image data includes the B-mode image 60, the imaging position information 61 may not be included.

  Returning to FIG. Subsequent to step S114 or step S115, the second display control unit 16b associates and stores the probe mark at the imaging position where the store is received and the ultrasound image data captured at this imaging position (step S116). ). In other words, the second display control unit 16b generates definition information in which a correspondence relationship with the ultrasound image data is defined for each probe mark, and stores the definition information in the image memory 18. FIG. 11 is a view (No. 8) for explaining the first embodiment.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of the data structure of the definition information generated by the second display control unit 16b. As shown in FIG. 11, the definition information includes an “inspection ID” for identifying an inspection, a “probe mark ID” for identifying a probe mark, “probe mark data”, and an “ultrasonic image” for identifying ultrasonic image data. Information associated with “data ID” is stored.

  Here, “probe mark data” is image data indicating a body mark and a probe mark superimposed on the body mark on the TCS screen after accepting a store and changing the color of the probe mark. That is, the probe mark data indicates the body mark and the probe mark displayed on the TCS 3a when the ultrasound image data is stored. The probe mark data is stored in the order in which the ultrasound image data is saved, for example. Therefore, the probe mark corresponding to the latest imaging position can be specified by comparing the previous and next probe mark data in the imaging order.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, when the “inspection ID” is “xxx” and the probe mark ID is “000x-a”, the probe mark identified by the probe mark ID is the probe mark 51a, and this probe This indicates that the identifier of the ultrasonic image data photographed at the photographing position indicated by the mark 51a is “0001”. When the “inspection ID” is “xxx” and the probe mark ID is “000x-b”, the probe mark specified by the probe mark ID is the probe mark 54, and the imaging indicated by the probe mark 54 is performed. It shows that the identifier of the ultrasonic image data photographed at the position is “0002”.

  Then, the second display control unit 16b determines whether or not the end of shooting has been accepted (step S117). FIG. 12 is a diagram (No. 9) for explaining the first embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a diagram (No. 10) for explaining the first embodiment.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of a TCS screen when shooting at the shooting position where shooting is scheduled has not been completed. As shown in FIG. 12, on the body mark 50, a probe mark 51 and a probe mark 51a, and probe marks 52 to 54 are displayed. Here, the probe mark 51a, the probe mark 53, and the probe mark 54 are indicated by these probe marks because the rectangular area is blue (indicated by dots in FIG. 12) or red (indicated by hatching in FIG. 12). Indicates that shooting at the shooting position has ended. On the other hand, the probe mark 52 indicates that imaging at the imaging position indicated by the probe mark 52 has not been completed since the rectangular area is white. That is, in the TCS 3a, the probe mark displayed on the body mark 50 includes a probe mark indicating that the photographing has not been completed. In this way, the operator can visually check whether or not there is an uncaptured shooting position by indicating whether or not shooting at the shooting position planned to be shot is completed by the color of the rectangular area of the probe mark. Is possible. That is, in the case of the TCS screen shown in FIG. 12, since the rectangular area of the probe mark 52 is white, the operator can determine that the planned shooting is not finished. If the second control unit 16b determines that the end of imaging has not been accepted (No at Step S117), the process proceeds to Step S103.

  On the other hand, FIG. 13 shows an example of a TCS screen when shooting at the shooting position where shooting is scheduled has been completed. As shown in FIG. 13, probe marks 51 and 51 a and probe marks 52 to 54 are displayed on the body mark 50. Here, the rectangular areas of the probe mark 51a and the probe marks 52 to 54 are blue (indicated by dots in FIG. 13) or red (indicated by hatching in FIG. 13). That is, it indicates that photographing at the photographing position indicated by these probe marks has been completed. In other words, in the TCS 3a, the probe mark displayed on the body mark 50 does not have a probe mark indicating that photographing has not been completed. In this way, the operator can visually check whether or not there is an uncaptured shooting position by indicating whether or not shooting at the shooting position planned to be shot is completed by the color of the rectangular area of the probe mark. Is possible. That is, in the case of the TCS screen shown in FIG. 13, since the rectangular areas of the probe mark 51a and the probe mark 52 to the probe mark 54 are not white, the operator can determine that the photographing is finished.

  If the second control unit 16b determines that the end of imaging has been received (step S117, Yes), the second control unit 16b stores the TCS screen (step S118) and ends the process. Here, as shown in FIG. 13, the second display control unit 16b displays a TCS screen including the probe mark 51 and the probe mark 51a superimposed on the body mark 50, and the probe marks 52 to 54. It is stored in the image memory 18 as “shooting position image data (also called shooting position information)”. Here, the second display control unit 16b assigns an identifier to the shooting position information and stores it in the image memory 18. FIG. 14 is a view (No. 11) for explaining the first embodiment. FIG. 14 illustrates a data structure in the case where shooting position information is stored in the image memory 18. As shown in FIG. 14, the photographing position information is stored in the image memory 18 in association with an “examination ID” that identifies the examination and a “photographing position image data ID” that identifies the photographing position image data.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the probe mark corresponding to each photographing position is displayed on the TCS 3a at each corresponding position on the body mark for each photographing position decided to be pre-photographed in the inspection. Let Thereby, the operator can easily visually recognize the shooting position scheduled to be shot. For example, the operator can easily recognize the imaging position where the imaging is scheduled and the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the imaging position. In other words, the operator can visually recognize where the imaging position to be taken in the examination is and in what direction the ultrasonic probe 1 is applied. Thereby, the operator can omit the operation of setting the probe mark at the position on the body mark corresponding to the shooting position every time shooting is performed at each shooting position. As a result, the operability for the operator can be improved. Note that the preset information may be set at the time of factory shipment or may be set by an operator.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, when the end of shooting at any of the shooting positions scheduled to be shot is accepted, shooting at the shooting position is completed at the probe mark corresponding to the shooting position. End information indicating is displayed. For example, when the operator stores, the probe mark color is changed to blue or the like. As a result, the operator can easily determine the imaging position to be imaged and the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1, and the imaging position to be imaged and the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the operator can determine whether or not the photographing at the photographing position where the photographing is scheduled has been completed based on the color of the probe mark. For example, the operator can visually determine that there is a shooting position that is scheduled to be shot but has not been shot when a probe mark having a white rectangular area remains. Thereby, the operator can prevent the shooting from being missed at the shooting position scheduled to be shot in the examination. Note that the color displayed by the second display control unit 16b as the end information is not limited to blue. Similarly, the color displayed as the unscheduled end information by the second display control unit 16b is not limited to red. That is, the end information and the unscheduled end information may be different in at least one of the display color and the display form.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the position and orientation of the probe mark can be changed by touching the probe mark at the imaging position to be taken. Thereby, even when the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the imaging position are changed, it is possible to record probe marks corresponding to the changed position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1. As a result, even when the imaging doctor and the interpretation doctor are different, it is possible to recognize that the imaging has been performed by changing the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 from the imaging position where imaging is scheduled.

  In addition, according to the first embodiment, a preliminary probe mark is also displayed outside the body mark. For example, when shooting at a shooting position that is not scheduled to be shot, the operator touches the probe mark outside the body mark to move it to the corresponding shooting position on the body mark. When the operator changes the position and orientation of the probe mark and stores it, the color of the rectangular area of the probe mark is changed to, for example, red as a color indicating that it is not the imaging position determined in advance. In this way, by changing the color of the probe mark to a color indicating that it is not an imaging position determined in advance, even if the imaging doctor and the interpreting doctor are different, the acquired ultrasound image data is not scheduled to be acquired. It is possible to recognize that the data is shot at a shooting position that is not present.

  In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment sets the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the imaging position assumed at the time of scheduled imaging, and the imaging position is added after the imaging is started. If the position or orientation of the ultrasonic probe 1 is changed, the change content is accepted from the operator. Thus, the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment presents the position and orientation of the ultrasound probe 1 at the imaging position to the operator without using the position sensor. Thereby, since the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment does not need to incorporate a position sensor, it is possible to reduce production costs.

  In the above-described embodiment, the order information indicating the photographing order is displayed. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first display control unit 16a may not display the order information indicating the shooting order. Further, the first display control unit 16a, for example, blinks the probe mark selected on the TCS 3a as a probe mark indicating the photographing position during photographing until the photographing at the photographing position is completed. Also good.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case has been described in which the probe mark used when shooting is performed at a shooting position that is not scheduled for shooting is displayed outside the body mark 50. However, the embodiment is limited to this. is not. For example, the first display control unit 16a does not display a probe mark for a shooting position that is not scheduled to be shot in advance, and receives an operation indicating that shooting that is not planned to be performed is received from the operator. Probe marks for the imaging positions may be displayed.

  In the above-described embodiment, the second display control unit 16b has been described as displaying an ultrasonic image including the B-mode image and the shooting position information on the monitor 2, but the embodiment is not limited to this. It is not limited to. That is, the second display control unit 16b may display an ultrasonic image including an image shot in a shooting mode other than the B mode and the shooting position information. For example, the second display control unit 16b may display an ultrasonic image including a color Doppler image and shooting position information on the monitor 2. The second display control unit 16b may display on the monitor 2 an ultrasonic image that does not include the shooting position information.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the second display control unit 16b accepts an operation for changing at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark, the probe mark before the change is not changed in form. Although described, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the second display control unit 16b may indicate a rectangular area with a broken line for the probe mark before the change. Specifically, the second display control unit 16b may display the rectangular area of the probe mark 51 with a broken line after displaying the probe mark 51a shown in FIG. Thereby, the operator can easily discriminate between the probe mark 51 before the change and the unmarked probe marks 52 and 53. Alternatively, when changing the position and orientation of the probe mark, the second display control unit 16b may display the probe mark before the change in a color that can be distinguished from the colors of other probe marks. And about the area | region where the probe mark before a change and the probe mark after a change overlap, the 2nd display control part 16b may display with the color which merged the color before and behind a change. In addition, when the second display control unit 16b receives an operation of changing at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark, the second display control unit 16b may delete the probe mark before the change.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when changing at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark, it has been described that the change is made before the ultrasound image data is stored. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Absent. For example, at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark may be changed after the ultrasound image data is stored.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first control unit 16a has been described as displaying the preset information selected in the shooting plan on the TCS 3a. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first control unit 16a may cause the monitor 2 to display preset information selected in the shooting plan. In such a case, for example, the display area of the monitor 2 is divided into a plurality of display areas, ultrasonic image data is displayed in one display area, and preset information selected in the imaging plan is displayed in another display area. In such a case, the second display control unit 16b changes at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark displayed on the monitor 2, and changes the color of the probe mark to blue as end information. When the preset information is displayed on the monitor 2, the ultrasonic image data and the preset information may be alternately switched and displayed without dividing the display area.

  In addition, the display form of the probe mark in the above-described embodiment can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the color, line type, and design of the probe mark may be changed as appropriate by the operator.

  In addition, when displaying the probe mark, the first display control unit 16a further displays support information that supports the operation scheduled for execution when the operation scheduled to be performed is associated with each imaging position. May be. FIG. 15 is a diagram (No. 1) for describing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 15 illustrates a case where distance measurement is performed as an operation scheduled to be executed.

  As illustrated in FIG. 15, the first display control unit 16 a displays the probe mark 51 to the probe mark 53 superimposed on the body mark 50 in the TCS 3 a, and the probe mark 54 and the body mark 50 are displayed. Are not superimposed and displayed outside the body mark 50. In addition, the first display control unit 16a displays the numbers (1) to (4) as the order information in the vicinity of the probe marks 51 to 54. Further, the first display control unit 16 a displays support information 56 for presenting “distance measurement” in the vicinity of the probe mark 51, and displays support information 57 for presenting “distance measurement” in the vicinity of the probe mark 52. . Thereby, the operator can visually recognize that the distance measurement is performed at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 51 and the probe mark 52. Note that the support information is not limited to distance measurement, but presents that imaging is performed by administering a contrast medium at the imaging position, that presents imaging in Doppler mode, and measures blood flow velocity. May be presented.

  In the ultrasonic inspection, an approximate position in the ultrasonic image data to be observed may be specified depending on the photographing position. For example, the organ A is an observation target at the imaging position indicated by the probe mark 51 shown in FIG. In the ultrasonic image data at this imaging position, the position of the organ A can be specified on the upper left side. In addition, at the imaging position indicated by the probe mark 52 shown in FIG. In the ultrasonic image data at this imaging position, the position of the organ B can be specified near the center. For this reason, when the distance measurement is associated with one of the probe marks selected on the TCS 3a as the operation to be performed, the second display control unit 16b performs imaging at the imaging position corresponding to the probe mark. The starting point for distance measurement may be displayed at a position on the ultrasonic image that is determined according to the position of the probe mark on the body mark. FIG. 16 is a diagram (No. 2) for explaining a modification of the first embodiment, and FIG. 17 is a diagram (No. 3) for explaining a modification of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 16 shows an ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 when the probe mark 51 shown in FIG. 15 is selected on the TCS 3a. As shown in FIG. 16, the second display control unit 16 b displays an ultrasonic image including the B-mode image 60 and the shooting position information 61 in the second display area 2 b of the monitor 2. Here, the second display control unit 16b determines that the observation target corresponding to the position of the probe mark 51 on the body mark 50 is the organ A. Then, the second display control unit 16 b displays the distance measurement start point 66 at a position where the organ A can be identified in the B-mode image 60. Note that the position of the starting point 66 can be moved to another position by, for example, a touch operation by the operator.

  FIG. 17 shows an ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 when the probe mark 52 shown in FIG. 15 is selected on the TCS 3a. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the second display control unit 16 b displays an ultrasonic image including the B-mode image 60 and the shooting position information 61 in the second display area 2 b of the monitor 2. Here, the second display control unit 16b determines that the observation target corresponding to the position of the probe mark 52 on the body mark 50 is the organ B. Then, the second display control unit 16b displays the starting point 67 for distance measurement at a position where it is predicted that the renal pelvis can be specified in the B-mode image 60. Note that the position of the start point 67 can be moved to another position by, for example, a touch operation by the operator.

  In the example illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, the second display control unit 16b has described the case where the observation target is determined and the start point is displayed at a position where the observation target is predicted to be specified. The form is not limited to this. For example, the second display control unit 16b may display the start point at a position on the ultrasound image data associated in advance according to the position of the probe mark corresponding to the imaging position on the body mark.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where there are a plurality of shooting positions scheduled to be shot has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the number of shooting positions scheduled for shooting may be one. FIG. 18 is a diagram (No. 4) for describing the modification of the first embodiment. In FIG. 18, a case will be described where preset information having one shooting position that is scheduled to be shot in the examination is selected as the shooting plan. As shown in the upper part of FIG. 18, the first display control unit 16a displays the body mark 50 and one probe mark 51 superimposed on the body mark 50 on the TCS 3a. Further, the first display control unit 16a displays a preliminary probe mark 54 outside the body mark 50, as shown in the upper part of FIG.

  The lower left diagram in FIG. 18 shows a case where imaging at the imaging position indicated by the probe mark 51 is completed. In such a case, the second display control unit 16b changes the color of the probe mark to blue (dot display in FIG. 18) as end information indicating that shooting at the shooting position of the preset information has ended. On the other hand, the lower right diagram in FIG. 18 shows a case where the photographing at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 54 is completed before the photographing at the photographing position indicated by the probe mark 51 is completed. In such a case, the second display control unit 16b sets the probe mark color to red (hatched display in FIG. 18) as end information indicating that shooting at a shooting position other than the shooting position of the preset information has ended. change.

(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, a case has been described in which the probe mark indicating the imaging position scheduled to be imaged and the position and orientation of the ultrasound probe 1 at the imaging position scheduled to be imaged is displayed during imaging by the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100. . In such shooting, shooting position information and definition information are generated and stored in the image memory 18 in addition to the ultrasonic image data. For this reason, in the second embodiment, a case will be described in which ultrasound image data and imaging position information are browsed with reference to definition information.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of the image processing apparatus 300 according to the second embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 19, an image processing apparatus 300 according to the second embodiment is connected to an ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus 100 and a medical image storage apparatus 200 via a network 400 so as to communicate with each other. The ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 captures ultrasound image data in the same manner as the ultrasound diagnostic imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The medical image storage apparatus 200 acquires the image data captured by the ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus 100 from the ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus 100 and stores it.

  An image processing apparatus 300 according to the second embodiment includes a monitor 301, an operation unit 302, a storage unit 303, a control unit 304, and a display control unit 305. The monitor 301 displays a GUI for inputting various setting requests, or displays an ultrasonic image requested to be browsed. The operation unit 302 includes a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, and the like, and accepts various setting requests from an operator of the image processing apparatus 300. The control unit 304 controls the entire processing of the image processing apparatus 300.

  The storage unit 303 stores ultrasonic image data and ultrasonic images received from the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus 100, the medical image storage apparatus 200, the PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) database, and the electronic medical record system database. Remember.

  For example, the storage unit 303 includes an ultrasonic image data DB (Data Base) that stores ultrasonic image data captured at a plurality of imaging positions in the examination, and a plurality of probes associated with the plurality of imaging positions on the body mark. An imaging position information DB that stores imaging position information at which marks are arranged, and a definition information DB that stores definition information in which a correspondence relationship with ultrasound image data is defined for each probe mark are stored. Note that the data structure of the ultrasound image data stored in the ultrasound image data DB is the same as the data structure shown in FIG. 10, and the data structure of the shooting position information stored in the shooting position information DB is the data shown in FIG. The data structure of the definition information stored in the definition information DB is the same as the data structure shown in FIG.

  The display control unit 305 receives a display request for ultrasonic image data, and displays the ultrasonic image data and imaging position information. For example, the display control unit 305 displays a list of a plurality of ultrasonic image data photographed in the examination and photographing position information. Alternatively, the display control unit 305 displays shooting position information. When the display control unit 305 receives the selection of any probe mark in the imaging position information, the display control unit 305 identifies the ultrasound image data associated with the selected probe mark with reference to the definition information, and identifies the specified super image. The sonic image data is further displayed.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the image processing apparatus 300 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, the operation unit 302 receives display of image data from the operator (step S201). Here, the operation unit 302 receives display of image data by designating, for example, an examination ID or an image ID. The operation unit 302 passes the received inspection ID and image ID to the display control unit 305. The image data referred to here includes ultrasonic image data and shooting position image data (shooting position information).

  Subsequently, the display control unit 305 searches the storage unit 303 to identify the designated image data (step S202). For example, the display control unit 305 refers to the ultrasound image data DB and the imaging position information DB, and uses the ultrasound image data ID and the imaging position image data ID as image data associated with the designated examination ID. Identify. For example, when “xxx” is designated as the examination ID, the display control unit 305 has ultrasonic image data IDs “0001”, “0002”, and “0003” as the ultrasonic image data shown in FIG. And “0004” are specified, and the shooting position image data ID “000x” is specified as the shooting position information shown in FIG.

  Alternatively, the display control unit 305 refers to the ultrasound image data DB and the imaging position information DB and identifies image data (for example, ultrasound image data and imaging position image data) that matches the designated image ID. Then, the display control unit 305 identifies image data associated with the examination ID associated with the image ID of the identified image data with reference to the ultrasound image data DB and the imaging position information DB. For example, when “000x” is specified as the image ID, the display control unit 305 specifies the shooting position image data ID “000x” as the shooting position information shown in FIG. In addition, the display control unit 305 specifies “xxx” as the examination ID associated with the imaging position image data ID. Then, the display control unit 305 specifies the ultrasonic image data IDs “0001”, “0002”, “0003”, and “0004” shown in FIG. 10 as the ultrasonic image data associated with the examination ID.

  Then, the display control unit 305 determines whether a list display has been accepted (step S203). If the display control unit 305 determines that the list display has been received (step S203, Yes), the display control unit 305 displays a list of image data on the monitor 301 (step S204). FIG. 21 is a diagram (No. 1) for describing the second embodiment.

  FIG. 21 shows an ultrasonic image to be displayed on the monitor 301 when the display control unit 305 accepts selection to display a list of image data. In FIG. 21, the monitor 301 is used by dividing the display area into a first display area 301a, a second display area 301b, a third display area 301c, and a fourth display area 301d. Shows the case. As illustrated in FIG. 21, if the display control unit 305 determines that the list display has been received, the display control unit 305 displays the plurality of ultrasonic image data 71 to 74 photographed in the examination and the photographing position information 70 on the second of the monitor 301. A list is displayed in the display area 301b.

  The display control unit 305 determines whether or not the end of the browsing operation has been accepted (step S205). Here, when the display control unit 305 does not determine that the end of the browsing operation has been received (No in step S205), the display control unit 305 determines whether the end of the browsing operation has been received. On the other hand, if the display control unit 305 determines that the end of the browsing operation has been received (step S205, Yes), the process ends.

  If the display control unit 305 does not determine in step S203 that the list display has been received (step S203, No), the display position information is displayed on the monitor 301 (step S206). FIG. 21 is a diagram (No. 2) for describing the second embodiment.

  FIG. 22 shows an ultrasonic image to be displayed on the monitor 301 when the display control unit 305 receives a selection to display the shooting position information. In FIG. 22, the monitor 301 includes a first display area 301a, a second display area 301b1, a third display area 301c, a fourth display area 301d, and a fifth display area 301b2. A case where the display area is divided and used is shown. As illustrated in FIG. 22, when the display control unit 305 does not determine that the list display has been received, the display control unit 305 displays the shooting position information 70 in the fifth display area 301 b 2 of the monitor 301.

  Subsequently, the display control unit 305 determines whether or not the selection of the probe mark has been accepted (step S207). Here, when the display control unit 305 does not determine that the selection of the probe mark has been accepted (No in step S207), the display control unit 305 determines whether the selection of the probe mark has been accepted. On the other hand, when the display control unit 305 determines that the selection of the probe mark has been accepted (step S207, Yes), the display control unit 305 displays the ultrasound image data corresponding to the selected probe mark (step S208). In the example illustrated in FIG. 22, the display control unit 305 illustrates a case where the probe mark illustrated on the upper left side is selected in the imaging position information 70. In such a case, the display control unit 305 refers to the definition information DB, identifies the ultrasound image data 71 corresponding to the selected probe mark, and displays the identified ultrasound image data 71 on the second display of the monitor 301. Displayed in the area 301b1.

  The display control unit 305 determines whether or not the end of the browsing operation has been accepted (step S209). Here, if the display control unit 305 does not determine that the end of the browsing operation has been received (step S209, No), the display control unit 305 proceeds to step S207 and determines whether the selection of the probe mark has been received. On the other hand, if the display control unit 305 determines that the end of the browsing operation has been received (step S209, Yes), the process ends.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to easily determine the correspondence between the ultrasonic image data captured in the examination and the imaging position of the ultrasonic image data.

  Note that the display control unit 305 according to the second embodiment may further display identification information that can identify whether browsing of the ultrasound image data has ended. FIG. 23 is a diagram (No. 1) for explaining a modification of the second embodiment, and FIG. 24 is a diagram (No. 2) for explaining a modification of the second embodiment.

  FIG. 23 shows a case where the display control unit 305 further displays identification information on the monitor 301 when receiving a selection to display a list of image data. In FIG. 23, the same contents as those in FIG. 21 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. As illustrated in FIG. 23, the display control unit 305 further displays identification information 80a to 80d in the vicinity of each of the plurality of ultrasonic image data 71 to 74 in the second display area 301b. In the example illustrated in FIG. 23, the display control unit 305 displays identification information 80 a in the vicinity of the ultrasound image data 71, displays identification information 80 b in the vicinity of the ultrasound image data 72, and is in the vicinity of the ultrasound image data 73. The identification information 80c is displayed on the screen, and the identification information 80d is displayed in the vicinity of the ultrasonic image data 74.

  When the display control unit 305 receives an operation indicating that browsing of certain ultrasonic image data has been completed from the operator, the browsing has been completed on the browsing information displayed in the vicinity of the ultrasonic image data that has been browsed. To show information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 23, when the display control unit 305 receives an operation indicating that browsing of the ultrasound image data 71 is completed from the operator, the viewing information 80 a displayed in the vicinity of the ultrasound image data 71. A check mark indicating that browsing has ended is displayed. The display control unit 305 may display a check mark on the browsing information 80a when an operation for selecting the browsing information 80a is received, for example.

  FIG. 24 shows a case where the display control unit 305 further displays identification information on the monitor 301 when receiving a selection to display the shooting position information. In FIG. 24, the same contents as those in FIG. 22 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. As illustrated in FIG. 24, the display control unit 305 further displays identification information 90a to 90d in the vicinity of each of the plurality of probe marks in the imaging position information 70 displayed in the fifth display area 301b2.

  When the display control unit 305 receives an operation indicating that browsing of certain ultrasonic image data has been completed from the operator, the browsing information displayed in the vicinity of the probe mark corresponding to the ultrasonic image data for which browsing has been completed. Information indicating that browsing has been completed. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 24, when the display control unit 305 receives an operation indicating that browsing of the ultrasound image data 71 is completed from the operator, the display control unit 305 is located near the probe mark corresponding to the ultrasound image data 71. A check mark indicating that browsing has ended is displayed on the displayed browsing information 90a. Note that the display control unit 305 may display a check mark on the browsing information 90a when an operation for selecting the browsing information 90a is received, for example. Moreover, when it is determined that the selection of the probe mark has been accepted, the display control unit 305 may display a check mark indicating that browsing has ended in the browsing information. In other words, when the selected ultrasound image data is opened, the display control unit 305 may display a check mark indicating that browsing has ended in the browsing information. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 24, the display control unit 305 displays the browsing information 90a displayed in the vicinity of the selected probe mark when displaying the ultrasound image data 71 corresponding to the selected probe mark. A check mark is displayed on.

  Further, the data structure of the ultrasonic image data stored in the image memory 18 or the ultrasonic image data DB is not limited to the data structure shown in FIG. 10, and any arbitrary ultrasonic image data can be specified as long as the ultrasonic image data can be specified. It may be a data structure. Further, the data structure of the shooting position information stored in the image memory 18 and the shooting position information DB is not limited to the data structure shown in FIG. 14, and any data structure can be used as long as the shooting position information can be specified. Good. Further, the data structure of the definition information stored in the image memory 18 and the definition information DB is not limited to the data structure shown in FIG. 11, and any data structure may be used as long as the definition information can be specified. Furthermore, at least two of the ultrasonic image data DB, the imaging position information DB, and the definition information DB may be integrated.

  According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to easily visually recognize the initial information regarding the shooting position scheduled to be shot.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Apparatus main body 16 Display control part 16a 1st display control part 16b 2nd display control part

Claims (17)

A first display control unit for displaying a probe mark corresponding to an imaging position to be imaged at a corresponding position on a body mark schematically showing the subject;
A second display control unit that, when accepting the end of shooting at the shooting position, displays end information indicating that shooting at the shooting position has ended on a probe mark corresponding to the shooting position; An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus. The probe mark presents the position and orientation of the ultrasonic probe at the imaging position to the operator,
The ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second display control unit receives an operation of changing at least one of a position and an orientation of the probe mark. The first display control unit adds and displays a probe mark for a shooting position different from the shooting position of the initial value set in advance outside the body mark,
The second display control unit selects a probe mark for an imaging position different from the imaging position of the initial value, accepts an operation for moving the probe mark on the body mark, and sets the position of the probe mark to the imaging position to be imaged The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus is added to the apparatus.   When the second display control unit accepts the end of photographing at a photographing position different from the photographing position of the initial value, the initial photographing position set in advance at the probe mark at the photographing position is The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein unscheduled end information indicating that shooting at a different shooting position is ended is displayed.   The ultrasonic image diagnosis apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the end information and the unscheduled end information are different in at least one of a display color and a display form.   The first display control unit, when displaying the probe mark, further displays support information for supporting an operation scheduled to be performed at an imaging position corresponding to the probe mark. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to any one of the above.   In the case where the operation to be performed is distance measurement, the second display control unit is a position on the ultrasonic image captured at the imaging position corresponding to the probe mark when the corresponding probe mark is selected. The ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein a starting point for distance measurement is displayed at a position on the ultrasonic image determined according to the position of the probe mark on the body mark. .   The first display control unit further causes each probe mark to display order information indicating an imaging order at an imaging position corresponding to the probe mark. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus described. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus includes a first display unit that displays an ultrasonic image being captured, and a second display unit that can accept an operation from an operator.
The first display control unit displays a body mark and a probe mark on the second display unit,
The second display control unit, when accepting the end of photographing at the photographing position, causes the probe information corresponding to the photographing position to display the end information on the second display unit. Item 9. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 8.   10. The second display control unit displays the probe mark selected on the second display unit at a corresponding position on the body mark being displayed on the first display unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus described in 1.   The second display control unit receives an operation of changing at least one of the position and orientation of the probe mark displayed on the second display unit, and after the operation to be changed is confirmed, the changed probe mark is 11. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the ultrasonic image diagnostic apparatus further displays at a corresponding position on the body mark being displayed on the first display unit. When the first display control unit displays the probe mark, the second display unit further displays support information for supporting an operation scheduled to be performed at an imaging position corresponding to the probe mark,
The second display control unit responds to the probe mark in the first display unit when the corresponding probe mark is selected in the second display unit when the scheduled operation is distance measurement. A starting point for distance measurement is displayed at a position on the ultrasonic image that is taken at the shooting position and is determined according to the position of the probe mark on the body mark. The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11. A first display control procedure for displaying a probe mark corresponding to an imaging position to be imaged at a corresponding position on a body mark schematically showing a subject;
When the end of shooting at the shooting position is accepted, the computer executes a second display control procedure for displaying on the probe mark corresponding to the shooting position end information indicating that shooting at the shooting position has ended. A program characterized by letting A storage unit that stores ultrasonic image data and imaging position information in which a probe mark is arranged on a body mark in association with an imaging position of the ultrasonic image data;
An image processing apparatus comprising: a display control unit that receives a display request for ultrasonic image data and displays the ultrasonic image data and the imaging position information.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the display control unit displays a list of ultrasound image data and the imaging position information.   The display control unit displays the imaging position information, and upon receiving a probe mark selection in the imaging position information, specifies the ultrasound image data associated with the selected probe mark, and identifies the identified ultrasound image The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, further displaying data.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the display control unit further displays identification information that can identify whether or not browsing of the ultrasonic image data is finished.

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