JP2019171168A - Ophthalmic photographing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide technique for improving versatility of scanning.SOLUTION: An ophthalmic photographing apparatus acquiring a cross-sectional image by scanning an eye to be examined using optical coherence tomography includes a measurement unit, a photographing unit, a display control unit, an operation unit, and a measurement control unit. The measurement unit performs optical coherence tomography. The photographing unit photographs the eye to be examined to obtain a moving picture thereof. The display control unit causes display means to display the moving picture acquired by the photographing unit and first and second scan regions that correspond to two or more scan lines representing a scan position and a scan direction in the moving picture and intersect each other. The operation unit is used to change the relative position of the first and second scan regions. The measurement control unit causes the measurement unit to perform optical coherence tomography based on two or more scan lines corresponding to the first and second scan regions of which the relative position gas been changed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to an ophthalmologic photographing apparatus.

  In the field of ophthalmology, various apparatuses for photographing an eye to be examined are used. In recent years, optical coherence tomography capable of acquiring cross-sectional images and three-dimensional images of the fundus and anterior eye has been attracting attention.

  In optical coherence tomography, various scan patterns are used depending on the object to be imaged and the object to be analyzed. Examples of scan patterns include line scan (horizontal scan, vertical scan, etc.), cross scan, radial scan, concentric scan, and three-dimensional scan.

  Further, a scan pattern in which two or more scan patterns are combined can be applied. For example, there is a scan pattern in which a horizontal scan line group parallel to each other and a vertical scan line group parallel to each other are arranged so as to be orthogonal in the vicinity of the center position of both scan line groups (“multiline cross”) Call). In practice, a scan pattern called “5-line cross” in which five horizontal scan lines and five vertical scan lines are combined is used.

  The user sets the scan position along with the selection of the scan pattern. For example, the user selects a 5-line cross as the scan pattern, and sets the scan position so that the crossing area of the 5-line cross is arranged at the target site (macular etc.) of the eye to be examined. The scan position is set by moving a mark (image) representing a scan pattern displayed on the observation image (moving image) of the eye to be examined.

JP 2014-155875 A

  In the conventional ophthalmologic photographing apparatus, as described above, the region of interest and its peripheral region are observed by moving the scan pattern (mark) while maintaining the shape of the selected scan pattern.

  However, in the ophthalmologic imaging apparatus, the scan pattern can be moved only within a scannable range limited by hardware restrictions and the like, and an intersection area of the scan pattern is arranged at an arbitrary position within the scannable range. I can't. For example, when it is desired to observe a site of interest located in the vicinity of the boundary of the scannable range and its surrounding region, the scan position cannot be set at or near the site of interest and the site of interest cannot be observed. In this case, it is necessary to move the site of interest on the observation image by moving the fixation target or the like, and the degree of freedom of scanning is reduced.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object thereof is to provide a technique for improving the degree of freedom of scanning.

  The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to the embodiment acquires a cross-sectional image by scanning the eye to be examined using optical coherence tomography. The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus includes a measurement unit, a photographing unit, a display control unit, an operation unit, and a measurement control unit. The measurement unit performs optical coherence tomography. The imaging unit captures a moving image of the eye to be examined. The display control unit includes a moving image acquired by the imaging unit, a first scan area corresponding to two or more scan lines representing a scanning position and a scanning direction in the moving image, and 2 representing a scanning position and a scanning direction in the moving image. The display unit displays a second scan area corresponding to the above scan line and intersecting the first scan area. The operation unit is used to change the relative position between the first scan area and the second scan area. The measurement control unit performs optical coherence tomography on the measurement unit based on two or more scan lines corresponding to the first scan region and two or more scan lines corresponding to the second scan region after the relative position is changed. Let it run.

  According to the present invention, the degree of freedom of scanning can be improved.

It is a schematic diagram showing an example of composition of an ophthalmology photographing instrument concerning an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram showing an example of composition of an ophthalmology photographing instrument concerning an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram showing an example of composition of an ophthalmology photographing instrument concerning an embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment. It is the schematic for demonstrating operation | movement of the ophthalmologic imaging device which concerns on embodiment.

  An example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The ophthalmologic imaging apparatus according to the present invention has a function of an optical coherence tomography, and executes optical coherence tomography (hereinafter referred to as OCT) of an eye to be examined. This OCT is performed on any part of the eye to be examined, such as the fundus or the anterior eye segment.

  In this specification, images acquired by OCT may be collectively referred to as OCT images. Moreover, it is possible to use the description content of the literature referred in this specification as the content of the following embodiment.

  In the following embodiment, an ophthalmologic imaging apparatus capable of executing Fourier domain type OCT will be described. In particular, the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to the embodiment can apply a swept source type OCT technique. Note that the configuration according to the present invention can also be applied to an ophthalmologic photographing apparatus capable of executing a type other than the swept source type, for example, a spectral domain type OCT. Further, in the following embodiment, an apparatus that combines an OCT apparatus and a fundus camera will be described. It is also possible to combine the OCT apparatus having the configuration according to the embodiment. In addition, the configuration according to the embodiment can be incorporated into a single OCT apparatus.

[Constitution]
As shown in FIG. 1, the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 includes a fundus camera unit 2, an OCT unit 100, and an arithmetic control unit 200. The retinal camera unit 2 has almost the same optical system as a conventional retinal camera. The OCT unit 100 is provided with an optical system for executing OCT. The arithmetic control unit 200 includes a computer that executes various arithmetic processes and control processes.

[Fundus camera unit]
The fundus camera unit 2 shown in FIG. 1 is provided with an optical system for obtaining a two-dimensional image (fundus image) representing the surface form of the fundus oculi Ef of the eye E to be examined. The fundus image includes an observation image and a captured image. The observation image is a monochrome moving image formed at a predetermined frame rate using near infrared light, for example. The captured image may be, for example, a color image obtained by flashing visible light, or a monochrome still image using near infrared light or visible light as illumination light. The fundus camera unit 2 may be configured to be able to acquire images other than these, such as a fluorescein fluorescent image, an indocyanine green fluorescent image, a spontaneous fluorescent image, and the like.

  The retinal camera unit 2 is provided with a chin rest and a forehead support for supporting the subject's face. Further, the fundus camera unit 2 is provided with an illumination optical system 10 and a photographing optical system 30. The illumination optical system 10 irradiates the fundus oculi Ef with illumination light. The photographing optical system 30 guides the fundus reflection light of the illumination light to an imaging device (CCD image sensor (sometimes simply referred to as a CCD) 35, 38). The imaging optical system 30 guides the measurement light from the OCT unit 100 to the eye E and guides the measurement light passing through the eye E to the OCT unit 100.

  The observation light source 11 of the illumination optical system 10 is configured by, for example, a halogen lamp or an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The light (observation illumination light) output from the observation light source 11 is reflected by the reflection mirror 12 having a curved reflection surface, passes through the condensing lens 13, passes through the visible cut filter 14, and is converted into near infrared light. Become. Further, the observation illumination light is once converged in the vicinity of the photographing light source 15, reflected by the mirror 16, and passes through the relay lenses 17 and 18, the diaphragm 19 and the relay lens 20. Then, the observation illumination light is reflected at the peripheral portion (region around the hole portion) of the aperture mirror 21, passes through the dichroic mirror 46, and is refracted by the objective lens 22 to illuminate the fundus oculi Ef.

  The fundus reflection light of the observation illumination light is refracted by the objective lens 22, passes through the dichroic mirror 46, passes through the hole formed in the central region of the perforated mirror 21, passes through the dichroic mirror 55, and is a focusing lens. It is reflected by the mirror 32 via 31. Further, the fundus reflection light passes through the half mirror 33A, is reflected by the dichroic mirror 33, and forms an image on the light receiving surface of the CCD image sensor 35 by the condenser lens. The CCD image sensor 35 detects fundus reflected light at a predetermined frame rate, for example. On the display device 3, an image (observation image) based on fundus reflection light detected by the CCD image sensor 35 is displayed. When the photographing optical system 30 is focused on the anterior segment, an observation image of the anterior segment of the eye E is displayed.

  The imaging light source 15 is constituted by, for example, a xenon lamp or an LED. The light (imaging illumination light) output from the imaging light source 15 is applied to the fundus oculi Ef through the same path as the observation illumination light. The fundus reflection light of the imaging illumination light is guided to the dichroic mirror 33 through the same path as that of the observation illumination light, passes through the dichroic mirror 33, is reflected by the mirror 36, and is reflected by the condenser lens 37 of the CCD image sensor 38. An image is formed on the light receiving surface. On the display device 3, an image (captured image) based on fundus reflection light detected by the CCD image sensor 38 is displayed. Note that the display device 3 that displays the observation image and the display device 3 that displays the captured image may be the same or different. In addition, when similar imaging is performed by illuminating the eye E with infrared light, an infrared captured image is displayed. It is also possible to use an LED as a photographing light source.

  An LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 39 displays a fixation target and an eyesight measurement index. The fixation target is an index for fixing the eye E to be examined, and is used at the time of fundus photographing or OCT measurement.

  A part of the light output from the LCD 39 is reflected by the half mirror 33A, reflected by the mirror 32, passes through the focusing lens 31 and the dichroic mirror 55, passes through the hole of the perforated mirror 21, and then reaches the dichroic. The light passes through the mirror 46, is refracted by the objective lens 22, and is projected onto the fundus oculi Ef.

  By changing the display position of the fixation target on the screen of the LCD 39, the fixation position of the eye E can be changed. As the fixation position of the eye E, for example, as in a conventional fundus camera, a position for acquiring an image centered on the macular of the fundus oculi Ef, a position for acquiring an image centered on the optic nerve head, And a position for acquiring an image centered on the fundus center between the macula and the optic disc. It is also possible to arbitrarily change the display position of the fixation target.

  Further, the fundus camera unit 2 is provided with an alignment optical system 50 and a focus optical system 60 as in a conventional fundus camera. The alignment optical system 50 generates an index (alignment index) for performing alignment (alignment) of the apparatus optical system with respect to the eye E. The focus optical system 60 generates an index (split index) for focusing on the eye E to be examined.

  The light (alignment light) output from the LED 51 of the alignment optical system 50 is reflected by the dichroic mirror 55 via the apertures 52 and 53 and the relay lens 54, passes through the hole of the perforated mirror 21, and reaches the dichroic mirror 46. And is projected onto the cornea of the eye E by the objective lens 22.

  The corneal reflection light of the alignment light passes through the objective lens 22, the dichroic mirror 46 and the hole, part of which passes through the dichroic mirror 55, passes through the focusing lens 31, is reflected by the mirror 32, and is half mirror The light passes through 33A, is reflected by the dichroic mirror 33, and is projected onto the light receiving surface of the CCD image sensor 35 by the condenser lens. The light reception image (alignment index) by the CCD image sensor 35 is displayed on the display device 3 together with the observation image. The user performs alignment by performing the same operation as that of a conventional fundus camera. Further, the arithmetic control unit 200 may perform alignment by analyzing the position of the alignment index and moving the optical system (auto-alignment function).

  When performing the focus adjustment, the reflecting surface of the reflecting rod 67 is obliquely provided on the optical path of the illumination optical system 10. The light (focus light) output from the LED 61 of the focus optical system 60 passes through the relay lens 62, is separated into two light beams by the split indicator plate 63, passes through the two-hole aperture 64, and is reflected by the mirror 65, The light is focused on the reflecting surface of the reflecting bar 67 by the condenser lens 66 and reflected. Further, the focus light passes through the relay lens 20, is reflected by the perforated mirror 21, passes through the dichroic mirror 46, is refracted by the objective lens 22, and is projected onto the fundus oculi Ef.

  The fundus reflection light of the focus light is detected by the CCD image sensor 35 through the same path as the cornea reflection light of the alignment light. A light reception image (split index) by the CCD image sensor 35 is displayed on the display device 3 together with the observation image. The arithmetic and control unit 200 analyzes the position of the split index and moves the focusing lens 31 and the focus optical system 60 to perform focusing as in the conventional case (autofocus function). Alternatively, focusing may be performed manually while visually checking the split indicator.

  The dichroic mirror 46 branches the optical path for OCT from the optical path for fundus imaging. The dichroic mirror 46 reflects light in a wavelength band used for OCT and transmits light for fundus photographing. In this OCT optical path, in order from the OCT unit 100 side, a collimator lens unit 40, an optical path length changing unit 41, a variable cross cylinder lens (hereinafter referred to as a VCC lens) 47, an optical scanner 42, and a focusing lens 43. A mirror 44 and a relay lens 45 are provided.

  The optical path length changing unit 41 is movable in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 1, and changes the optical path length of the optical path for OCT. This change in the optical path length is used for correcting the optical path length according to the axial length of the eye E or adjusting the interference state. The optical path length changing unit 41 includes, for example, a corner cube and a mechanism for moving the corner cube.

  The optical scanner 42 is disposed at a position optically conjugate with the pupil of the eye E. The optical scanner 42 changes the traveling direction of the light (measurement light LS) passing through the optical path for OCT. Thereby, the eye E can be scanned with the measurement light LS. The optical scanner 42 includes, for example, a galvanometer mirror that scans the measurement light LS in the x direction, a galvanometer mirror that scans in the y direction, and a mechanism that drives these independently. Thereby, the measurement light LS can be scanned in an arbitrary direction on the xy plane.

[OCT unit]
An example of the configuration of the OCT unit 100 is shown in FIG. The OCT unit 100 is provided with an optical system for acquiring an OCT image of the eye E. This optical system has the same configuration as a conventional swept source type OCT apparatus. That is, this optical system divides the light from the wavelength scanning type (wavelength sweep type) light source into the measurement light and the reference light, and returns the return light of the measurement light from the eye E and the reference light via the reference light path. An interference optical system that generates interference light by causing interference and detects the interference light. The detection result (detection signal) of the interference light by the interference optical system is a signal indicating the spectrum of the interference light and is sent to the arithmetic control unit 200.

  The light source unit 101 is configured to include a wavelength scanning type (wavelength sweep type) light source capable of scanning (sweeping) the wavelength of emitted light, as in a general swept source type OCT apparatus. The light source unit 101 temporally changes the output wavelength in the near-infrared wavelength band that cannot be visually recognized by the human eye.

  The light L0 output from the light source unit 101 is guided to the polarization controller 103 by the optical fiber 102 and its polarization state is adjusted. The polarization controller 103 adjusts the polarization state of the light L0 guided through the optical fiber 102, for example, by applying stress from the outside to the looped optical fiber 102.

  The light L0 whose polarization state is adjusted by the polarization controller 103 is guided to the fiber coupler 105 by the optical fiber 104, and is divided into the measurement light LS and the reference light LR.

  The reference light LR is guided to the collimator 111 by the optical fiber 110 and becomes a parallel light beam. The reference light LR that has become a parallel light beam is guided to the corner cube 114 via the optical path length correction member 112 and the dispersion compensation member 113. The optical path length correction member 112 functions as a delay unit for matching the optical path length (optical distance) of the reference light LR and the optical path length of the measurement light LS. The dispersion compensation member 113 functions as a dispersion compensation means for matching the dispersion characteristics between the reference light LR and the measurement light LS.

  The corner cube 114 folds the traveling direction of the reference light LR that has become a parallel light beam by the collimator 111 in the reverse direction. The optical path of the reference light LR incident on the corner cube 114 and the optical path of the reference light LR emitted from the corner cube 114 are parallel. The corner cube 114 is movable in a direction along the incident optical path and the outgoing optical path of the reference light LR. By this movement, the length of the optical path of the reference light LR is changed.

  1 and 2, the optical path length changing unit 41 for changing the length of the optical path (measurement optical path, measurement arm) of the measurement light LS, and the optical path (reference optical path, reference) of the reference light LR. Both corner cubes 114 for changing the length of the arm) are provided, but either one of them may be provided. It is also possible to change the difference between the measurement optical path length and the reference optical path length using optical members other than these.

  The reference light LR that has passed through the corner cube 114 passes through the dispersion compensation member 113 and the optical path length correction member 112, is converted from a parallel light beam to a focused light beam by the collimator 116, enters the optical fiber 117, and is guided to the polarization controller 118. Accordingly, the polarization state of the reference light LR is adjusted.

  For example, the polarization controller 118 has the same configuration as the polarization controller 103. The reference light LR whose polarization state is adjusted by the polarization controller 118 is guided to the attenuator 120 by the optical fiber 119, and the light quantity is adjusted under the control of the arithmetic control unit 200. The reference light LR whose light amount has been adjusted by the attenuator 120 is guided to the fiber coupler 122 by the optical fiber 121.

  On the other hand, the measurement light LS generated by the fiber coupler 105 is guided by the optical fiber 127 and converted into a parallel light beam by the collimator lens unit 40. The measurement light LS converted into a parallel light beam reaches the dichroic mirror 46 via the optical path length changing unit 41, the optical scanner 42, the focusing lens 43, the mirror 44, and the relay lens 45. Then, the measurement light LS is reflected by the dichroic mirror 46, refracted by the objective lens 22, and irradiated to the eye E. The measurement light LS is scattered (including reflection) at various depth positions of the eye E. The return light of the measurement light LS including such backscattered light travels in the reverse direction on the same path as the forward path, is guided to the fiber coupler 105, and reaches the fiber coupler 122 via the optical fiber 128.

  The fiber coupler 122 combines (interferes) the measurement light LS incident through the optical fiber 128 and the reference light LR incident through the optical fiber 121 to generate interference light. The fiber coupler 122 branches the interference light between the measurement light LS and the reference light LR at a predetermined branching ratio (for example, 1: 1), thereby generating a pair of interference lights LC. The pair of interference lights LC emitted from the fiber coupler 122 are guided to the detector 125 by optical fibers 123 and 124, respectively.

  The detector 125 is, for example, a balanced photodiode that includes a pair of photodetectors that respectively detect a pair of interference lights LC and outputs a difference between detection results obtained by the pair of photodetectors. The detector 125 sends the detection result (detection signal) to the arithmetic control unit 200. The arithmetic control unit 200 performs, for example, Fourier transform or the like on the spectrum distribution based on the detection result obtained by the detector 125 for each series of wavelength scans (for each A line), thereby obtaining the reflection intensity profile in each A line. Form. Furthermore, the arithmetic control unit 200 forms image data by imaging the reflection intensity profile of each A line.

  In this embodiment, a Michelson type interference optical system is employed, but any type of interference optical system such as a Mach-Zehnder type can be employed.

[Calculation control unit]
The configuration of the arithmetic control unit 200 will be described. The arithmetic control unit 200 analyzes the detection signal input from the detector 125 and forms an OCT image of the eye E. The arithmetic processing for this is the same as that of a conventional swept source type OCT apparatus.

  The arithmetic control unit 200 controls each part of the fundus camera unit 2, the display device 3, and the OCT unit 100. For example, the arithmetic control unit 200 displays an OCT image of the eye E on the display device 3.

  As the control of the fundus camera unit 2, the arithmetic control unit 200 controls the operation of the observation light source 11, the imaging light source 15 and the LEDs 51 and 61, the operation control of the LCD 39, the movement control of the focusing lenses 31 and 43, and the reflector 67. Movement control, movement control of the focus optical system 60, movement control of the optical path length changing unit 41, operation control of the optical scanner 42, and the like are performed.

  As the control of the OCT unit 100, the arithmetic control unit 200 controls the operation of the light source unit 101, the movement control of the corner cube 114, the operation control of the detector 125, the operation control of the attenuator 120, and the operations of the polarization controllers 103 and 118. Control and so on.

  The arithmetic and control unit 200 includes, for example, a microprocessor, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a hard disk drive, a communication interface, and the like, as in a conventional computer. A computer program for controlling the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 is stored in a storage device such as a hard disk drive. The arithmetic control unit 200 may include various circuit boards, for example, a circuit board for forming an OCT image. The arithmetic control unit 200 may include an operation device (input device) such as a keyboard and a mouse, and a display device such as an LCD.

  The fundus camera unit 2, the display device 3, the OCT unit 100, and the calculation control unit 200 may be configured integrally (that is, in a single housing) or separated into two or more cases. It may be.

[Control system]
The configuration of the control system of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, some components of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 are omitted, and components particularly necessary for explaining this embodiment are selectively shown.

(Control part)
The control system of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 is configured around the control unit 210. The controller 210 includes, for example, a microprocessor, RAM, ROM, hard disk drive, communication interface, and the like. The control unit 210 is provided with a main control unit 211 and a storage unit 212.

(Main control unit)
The main control unit 211 performs the various controls described above. In particular, as shown in FIG. 3, the main control unit 211 includes the imaging focus drive unit 31A, the CCD image sensors 35 and 38, the LCD 39, the optical path length change unit 41, the optical scanner 42, and the OCT focus drive of the fundus camera unit 2. The unit 43A, the light source unit 101 of the OCT unit 100, the reference driving unit 114A, the detector 125, and the like are controlled.

  The photographing focus driving unit 31A moves the focusing lens 31 in the optical axis direction. Thereby, the focus position of the photographic optical system 30 is changed. The main control unit 211 can control an optical system drive unit (not shown) to move the optical system provided in the fundus camera unit 2 three-dimensionally. This control is used in alignment and tracking. Tracking refers to moving the apparatus optical system in accordance with the movement of the eye E. When tracking is performed, alignment and focusing are performed in advance. Tracking maintains a suitable positional relationship in which alignment and focus are achieved by moving the apparatus optical system in real time according to the position and orientation of the eye E based on an image obtained by taking a moving image of the eye E. It is a function.

  The OCT focusing drive unit 43A moves the focusing lens 43 along the optical axis of the measurement optical path. Thereby, the focus position of the measurement light LS is changed. The focus position of the measurement light LS corresponds to the depth position (z position) of the beam waist of the measurement light LS.

  The reference driving unit 114A moves the corner cube 114 provided in the reference optical path. Thereby, the length of the reference optical path is changed. As described above, the optical path length changing unit 41 and only one of the corner cube 114 and the reference driving unit 114A may be provided.

  As illustrated in FIG. 3, the main control unit 211 includes a measurement control unit 2111 and a display control unit 2112.

(Measurement control unit)
The measurement control unit 2111 controls OCT measurement by the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100. For example, the measurement control unit 2111 includes a condition relating to scanning of the measurement light LS (scan condition), a condition relating to the focus of the measurement light LS (focus condition), and a condition relating to an interference state between the measurement light LS and the reference light LR (interference condition). Control conditions related to fixation (fixation conditions) and the like. The scan condition includes a scan pattern related to the control of the optical scanner 42, a scan interval, a scanable range, and the like. In addition, the scan condition includes selection of a scan pattern, a scan position and a scan direction of the selected scan pattern, a scan pattern shape, and the like. The scan pattern is a condition that represents the shape of the scan, and specific examples include a line scan in a line segment, a circle scan in a circle shape, a raster scan, a cross scan, and a radial scan. The scan interval includes an interval between adjacent scan patterns, an interval between scan areas described later, and an interval between adjacent scan lines in the scan pattern in the case of multiline cross. The scannable range is uniquely determined by the hardware configuration of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1, but the position can be controlled. The focus condition includes a focus position of the measurement light LS related to control of the focus lens 43 (OCT focus drive unit 43A) and the like. The interference condition relates to the control of the focusing lens 43 (OCT focusing driving unit 43A), the corner cube 114 (reference driving unit 114A), the polarization controller 118, and the attenuator 120. The fixation condition includes a projection position of a fixation target related to the control of the LCD 39. The measurement control unit 2111 executes control based on the set conditions. Note that the conditions controlled by the measurement controller 2111 are not limited to these, and include diopter correction according to the diopter of the eye E, for example.

(Display control unit)
The display control unit 2112 displays various information on the display unit 241. The display control unit 2112 is controlled by the measurement control unit 2111 on the observation image (moving image) of the eye E generated based on the fundus reflection light detected by the CCD image sensor 35 (or the CCD image sensor 38). Scan pattern images corresponding to the scan patterns can be displayed on the display unit 241 in a superimposed manner.

(Memory part)
The storage unit 212 stores various data. Examples of the data stored in the storage unit 212 include OCT image image data, fundus image data, and examined eye information. The eye information includes information about the subject such as patient ID and name, and information about the eye such as left / right eye identification information. The storage unit 212 stores various programs and data for operating the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1.

(Image forming part)
The image forming unit 220 forms image data of a cross-sectional image of the fundus oculi Ef based on the detection signal from the detector 125. That is, the image forming unit 220 forms image data of the eye E based on the detection result of the interference light LC by the interference optical system. This process includes processes such as noise removal (noise reduction), filter processing, and FFT (Fast Fourier Transform), as in the case of the conventional swept source type OCT. The image data acquired in this way is a data set including a group of image data formed by imaging reflection intensity profiles in a plurality of A lines (paths of the measurement light LS in the eye E). is there.

  In order to improve the image quality, it is possible to superimpose (addition average) a plurality of data sets acquired by repeating scanning with the same pattern a plurality of times.

  The image forming unit 220 includes, for example, the circuit board described above. In this specification, “image data” and “image” based thereon may be identified. Moreover, the part of the eye E to be examined and the image thereof may be identified.

(Data processing part)
The data processing unit 230 performs various types of data processing (image processing) and analysis processing on the OCT image formed by the image forming unit 220. For example, the data processing unit 230 executes correction processing such as image brightness correction and dispersion correction. Further, the data processing unit 230 performs various types of image processing and analysis processing on the image (fundus image, anterior eye image, etc.) obtained by the fundus camera unit 2.

  The data processing unit 230 can form volume data (voxel data) of the eye E by performing known image processing such as interpolation processing for interpolating pixels between cross-sectional images. When displaying an image based on volume data, the data processing unit 230 performs a rendering process on the volume data to form a pseudo three-dimensional image when viewed from a specific viewing direction.

  The data processing unit 230 can perform alignment between the fundus image and the OCT image. When the fundus image and the OCT image are acquired in parallel, since both optical systems are coaxial, the optical axis of the imaging optical system 30 is used to (substantially) simultaneously acquire the fundus image and the OCT image. Can be aligned with reference to. Regardless of the acquisition timing of the fundus image and the OCT image, the front image obtained by projecting at least a part of the image area corresponding to the fundus oculi Ef of the OCT image onto the xy plane is aligned with the fundus image. By doing so, it is possible to align the OCT image and the fundus image. This alignment method is applicable even when the fundus image acquisition optical system and the OCT optical system are not coaxial. Even if both optical systems are not coaxial, if the relative positional relationship between both optical systems is known, the same alignment as in the coaxial case is executed with reference to this relative positional relationship. It is possible.

  The data processing unit 230 that functions as described above includes, for example, a microprocessor, a RAM, a ROM, a hard disk drive, a circuit board, and the like. In a storage device such as a hard disk drive, a computer program for causing the microprocessor to execute the above functions is stored in advance.

(User interface)
The user interface 240 includes a display unit 241 and an operation unit 242. The display unit 241 includes the display device of the arithmetic control unit 200 and the display device 3 described above. The operation unit 242 includes the operation device of the arithmetic control unit 200 described above. The operation unit 242 may include various buttons and keys provided on the housing of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 or outside. Further, the display unit 241 may include various display devices such as a touch panel provided in the housing of the fundus camera unit 2.

  The display unit 241 and the operation unit 242 do not need to be configured as individual devices. For example, a device in which a display function and an operation function are integrated, such as a touch panel, can be used. In that case, the operation unit 242 includes the touch panel and a computer program. The operation content for the operation unit 242 is input to the control unit 210 as an electrical signal. Further, operations and information input may be performed using the graphical user interface (GUI) displayed on the display unit 241 and the operation unit 242.

  The ophthalmologic imaging apparatus 1 can store a scan pattern applied to OCT measurement, and can apply the stored scan pattern to subsequent OCT measurements. In this case, for example, the operation unit 242 is used for inputting the identification information of the subject. The storage unit 212 stores operation information including scan information representing a scan pattern applied to the eye E in association with identification information. When identification information is newly input by the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 reads scan information associated with the newly input identification information from the storage unit 212. The measurement control unit 2111 applies the scan pattern represented by the read scan information to cause the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 to perform OCT measurement.

  Further, the storage unit 212 may store scan information including information indicating a position where the scan pattern is applied to the eye E. In this case, the measurement control unit 2111 reads scan information associated with the newly input identification information from the storage unit 212, and the scan pattern represented by the read scan information is the eye E to be examined represented by the scan information. The fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 are controlled so as to be applied to the position. The scan information may include a fixation position or a position in the observation image.

  As a result, the scan pattern applied in the past OCT measurement can be applied to the subsequent measurement, and the follow-up observation of the attention site can be accurately performed.

  The LCD 39 is an example of a “fixation target projection unit” according to this embodiment. The fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 are examples of the “measurement unit” according to this embodiment. The CCD image sensor 35 or the CCD image sensor 38 is an example of a “photographing unit” according to this embodiment. The “imaging unit” according to this embodiment may further include an optical system for generating fundus reflection light detected by the CCD image sensor 35 or the CCD image sensor 38. The display unit 241 is an example of a “display unit” according to this embodiment. The operation unit 242 is an example of an “operation unit” according to this embodiment.

[Operation example]
The operation of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 will be described.

(Operation example related to scan pattern in live scan)
In the live scan, the OCT scan with the same scan pattern is repeatedly executed. At this time, a fixation target is presented to the eye E. Thereby, a substantially constant cross section is repeatedly OCT scanned, and a moving image of the cross section obtained thereby can be displayed in real time. In addition, by performing tracking in parallel with the live scan, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation where the repetitive OCT scan deviates from the target cross section due to the influence of eye movement or the like.

  In the following operation example, a case where a scan pattern called “5-line cross”, which is a kind of cross scan, is applied will be described.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of “5-line cross” according to this embodiment. FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an example of a “5-line cross” scan pattern.

  The “5-line cross” includes five first scan line groups SC1 parallel to each other extending in the first direction D1 (for example, the x direction) and a second direction D2 (for example, the y direction) orthogonal to the first direction D1. Is a scan pattern arranged so that five second scan line groups SC2 extending in parallel with each other intersect each other. The “5-line cross” forms a first scan region P1 scanned by the first scan line group SC1 and a second scan region P2 scanned by the second scan line group SC2. The intersection region C1 between the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 overlaps with, for example, a region of interest of the fundus oculi Ef (the macula (fovea), the optic disc, an arbitrary position between the macula and the optic disc), etc. Placed in.

  The arrows of the line-shaped scan lines constituting each scan line group represent the scan direction of the scan line, the start point and end point of the scan line represent the scan start position and the scan end position of the scan line, and the length of the scan line This represents the scan length of the scan line. That is, the scan line shown in FIG. 4 represents the scan position and the scan direction of the scan along the scan line. For example, the boundary on the scan start position side of the first scan region P1 is defined by the scan start positions of five scan lines. The boundary on the scan end position side of the first scan region P1 is defined by the scan end positions of the five scan lines. The boundary of the first scan region P1 parallel to the first direction D1 is the two scan lines arranged on the outermost side among the five scan lines arranged side by side in the second direction D2, or the two scan lines. It is defined by a position further away from the scan line by a predetermined distance. The boundary of the second scan region P2 is also defined similarly to the first scan region P1.

  FIG. 4 shows an example in which the first scan region P1 (first scan line group SC1) is arranged so as to be orthogonal to the second scan region P2 (second scan line group SC2). P1 should just be arrange | positioned so that it may cross | intersect (at arbitrary angles) without orthogonally crossing the 2nd scanning area | region P2.

  FIG. 4 shows an example in which each of the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 is scanned by five scan lines, but is not limited to the number of scan lines. For example, at least one of the first scan area P1 and the second scan area P2 may be an area scanned by one or three scan lines.

  Further, “5-line cross” is an example of a scan pattern having two scan areas corresponding to two or more scan lines representing a scan position and a scan direction and arranged so that at least two intersect each other. It is also possible to apply to this embodiment a scan pattern arranged such that three or more scan regions intersect like a scan.

  During scanning, a first scan along at least one scan line constituting the first scan line group SC1 and a second scan along at least one scan line constituting the second scan line group SC2 are alternately executed. Is done. Note that “execution of the first scan and the second scan alternately” is not limited to the case where the first scan of one time and the second scan of one time are executed alternately. This is a concept including a case where a scan and one or more second scans are alternately executed. Further, the scan line group in each scan area is scanned cyclically in a predetermined order.

  Further, when the scan in the first direction D1 and the scan in the second direction D2 are executed using measurement light having different wavelengths, the first scan and the second scan can be executed simultaneously.

  In this embodiment, the relative position between the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 can be changed automatically or manually.

  When the relative position is automatically changed, the data processing unit 230 analyzes the observation image of the eye E to identify the position of a specific part (macular, fovea, optic nerve head, blood vessel, diseased part, etc.), and this identification The scan position is set by changing the relative position between the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 so as to pass through the site determined by the site or the specific site. At this time, for example, the scan position is set so that the intersection region C1 between the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 matches the specific part by the above analysis. The relative position is changed by moving each scan area in a predetermined direction. For example, the moving direction of the first scan region P1 is the first direction D1 or the opposite direction. For example, the moving direction of the second scan region P2 is the second direction D2 or the opposite direction. The movement of the scan area includes at least one of parallel movement and rotational movement. In the movement control of the scan position by such movement of the scan area, the measurement control unit 2111 sets the scan line of each scan area in the same direction (the same amount) according to the change contents (movement direction and movement amount) of the scan position. This is executed by changing the setting for controlling the optical scanner 42 so as to be moved by a distance.

  On the other hand, when the relative position is manually changed, the user designates a scan area to be moved using the user interface 240 and moves the designated scan area. Hereinafter, an example of operation when the relative position is manually changed will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 schematically shows an example of the screen of the display unit 241 for changing the relative position between the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2.

  The user selects a scan pattern using the user interface 240 by a known method. When the selected scan pattern is “5-line cross”, the display control unit 2112 superimposes on the moving image of the eye E generated based on the fundus reflection light detected by the CCD image sensor 35, and displays the display unit Scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 corresponding to the scan pattern of “5-line cross” are displayed in accordance with the initial position and the initial direction in the display area 241. Alternatively, the display control unit 2112 superimposes on the moving image of the eye E based on the fundus reflection light detected by the CCD image sensor 35 and matches the previous scan position and scan direction in the display area of the display unit 241. Scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 may be displayed. The scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 are images displayed on the display unit 241 corresponding to two or more scan lines representing the scan position and the scan direction (in this embodiment, five scan lines in each of the two directions). It is an image arranged so that at least two intersect. In the following description, the first scan region P1 and the scan pattern image SP1 displayed on the display unit 241 corresponding thereto may be identified. Similarly, the second scan region P2 and the scan pattern image SP2 displayed on the display unit 241 corresponding thereto may be identified.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the scan pattern image includes an image SP1 representing the boundary of the first scan region P1 constituting the scan pattern and an image SP2 representing the boundary of the second scan region P2 constituting the scan pattern. It is. The scan pattern image includes, for example, a scan line image SL1 corresponding to the first scan line group SC1 in the first scan region P1, and a scan line corresponding to the second scan line group SC2 in the second scan region P2. The image SL2 may also be used (FIG. 5). Alternatively, the scan pattern image may be an image of the vicinity of the scan start position and the vicinity of the scan end position of the scan line in each scan region so as not to hinder observation of the target region. The scan pattern image may further include an image representing the intersecting region C1. For example, in FIG. 5, both the images SP <b> 1 and SP <b> 2 and the images SL <b> 1 and SL <b> 2 are illustrated as scan pattern images, but only one of them may be displayed on the display unit 241.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the display control unit 2112 also displays a display range R1 corresponding to the scanable range of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1 within the display region of the display unit 241 on which the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 are displayed. It can be displayed. Thereby, it becomes easy to grasp the movable range of the scan pattern image SP1 (first scan region P1) and the scan pattern image SP2 (second scan region P2). Therefore, the user can change the relative positions of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 while confirming the movable range. In the following, the scanable range and the display range R1 displayed on the display unit 241 corresponding thereto may be identified.

  The operation unit 242 receives various operations by the user. For example, the operation unit 242 designates one of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 (first designation operation) and a movement operation (first operation) for translating or rotating the scan pattern image designated by the designation operation. 1 movement operation). The designation operation is performed, for example, by selecting from scan pattern image groups corresponding to movable scan area groups. The moving operation is performed, for example, by specifying the moving direction and moving amount of the scan pattern image specified by the specifying operation. When the touch panel functions as the display unit 241 and the operation unit 242, the screen of the display unit 241 functions as an operation screen. In this case, the designation operation is performed by, for example, a touch operation on a position in the operation screen associated with a desired scan pattern image from the movable scan pattern image group. The moving operation is performed, for example, by dragging the moving direction and moving amount of the scan pattern image specified by the specifying operation with respect to the operation screen.

  A case where the first scan region P1 is moved in parallel will be described with further reference to FIG. 6A. In FIG. 6A, the same parts as those in FIG.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, when the user performs an operation for specifying the scan pattern image SP1 on the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 (main control unit 211) performs the first scan based on the operation content on the operation unit 242. The region P1 is specified. Subsequently, when the user performs a movement operation of the scan pattern image SP1 for moving the predetermined movement amount in the movement direction D4 with respect to the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 is based on the operation content on the operation unit 242. Then, the position of the first scan region P1 moved by a predetermined movement amount in the movement direction D4 is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the scan pattern image SP1 at a display position corresponding to the position of the first scan region P1 obtained by the measurement control unit 2111 (state shown in FIG. 6A). Accordingly, the display control unit 2112 can change the display position of the scan pattern image corresponding to the scan area in accordance with the movement operation. The moving direction D4 is illustrated as a direction parallel to the second direction D2, but may be any direction along the surface of the fundus oculi Ef. When the position of the scan pattern image SP1 after the movement is determined, the measurement control unit 2111 determines the optical scanner based on the scan lines in the scan areas P1 and P2 corresponding to the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 after the relative position is changed. By controlling the scanning position by 42, the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 are caused to perform OCT measurement.

  The case of translating the second scan region P2 will be described with further reference to FIG. 6B. In FIG. 6B, the same parts as those in FIG.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, as in FIG. 6A, when the user performs an operation for specifying the scan pattern image SP <b> 2 on the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 performs the second scan based on the operation content on the operation unit 242. The region P2 is specified. Subsequently, when the user performs a movement operation of the scan pattern image SP2 for moving the predetermined movement amount in the movement direction D3 with respect to the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 is based on the operation content on the operation unit 242. Then, the position of the second scan area P2 moved by a predetermined movement amount in the movement direction D3 is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the scan pattern image SP2 at a display position corresponding to the position of the second scan region P2 obtained by the measurement control unit 2111 (state shown in FIG. 6B). The moving direction D3 is illustrated as a direction parallel to the first direction D1, but may be an arbitrary direction along the surface of the fundus oculi Ef. When the position of the scan pattern image SP2 after the movement is determined, the measurement control unit 2111 determines the optical scanner based on the scan lines in the scan areas P1 and P2 corresponding to the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 after the relative position is changed. By controlling the scanning position by 42, the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 are caused to perform OCT measurement.

  Note that the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 (first scan region P1 and second scan region P2) are rotationally moved with reference to an arbitrary position within the display range R1 corresponding to the scannable range, similar to the above-described parallel movement. It is also possible to make it. When performing the rotational movement, for example, the user performs an operation of specifying the rotation center position, an operation of specifying the scan pattern image to be rotated, and an operation of rotating the specified scan pattern image by a desired angle. In addition, it is also possible to constitute so as to perform rotational movement around the predetermined position. For example, a configuration in which the center position of the designated scan pattern image is set as the center of rotation, a configuration in which the center position of the intersection area of the scan pattern image is set as the center of rotation, or a predetermined target region (fovea etc.) It is possible to apply a configuration set as the rotation center.

  The user can also move the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 (the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2) integrally using the user interface 240. The processing in this case is executed as follows, for example.

  The operation unit 242 designates the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 by the user (second designation operation), and a movement operation (second movement operation) for translating or rotating the scan pattern image designated by the designation operation. ) And accept. The designation operation is performed, for example, by designating an intersecting region where at least two of two or more scan pattern images intersect. The moving operation is performed, for example, by specifying the moving direction and moving amount of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 specified by the specifying operation. Further, when the touch panel functions as the display unit 241 and the operation unit 242, the designation operation is performed in a screen different from the positions of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 displayed in the display area of the display unit 241 (in the moving image), for example. This is performed by a touch operation on the position. In addition, the designation operation may be performed, for example, by a touch operation on an intersecting region where at least two of two or more scan pattern images intersect. The movement operation is performed by, for example, a drag operation on the position specified by the touch operation.

  A case where the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 are moved together will be described with further reference to FIG. 6C. In FIG. 6C, the same parts as those in FIG.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, when the user performs a designation operation for integrally designating the scan pattern images SP <b> 1 and SP <b> 2 on the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 (main control unit 211) operates the operation unit 242. The first scan area P1 and the second scan area P2 are specified based on the contents. Subsequently, when the user performs an operation of moving the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 for moving the predetermined movement amount in an arbitrary direction within the display area of the display unit 241 with respect to the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 The positions of the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 that have been moved by a predetermined amount of movement in the designated movement direction are obtained based on the content of the operation on the operation unit 242. The display control unit 2112 displays the scan pattern image SP1 at a display position corresponding to the position of the first scan region P1 obtained by the measurement control unit 2111, and the position of the second scan region P2 obtained by the measurement control unit 2111. The scan pattern image SP2 is displayed at the display position corresponding to (state shown in FIG. 6C). When the positions of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 after the movement are determined, the measurement control unit 2111 is based on the scan lines in the scan areas P1 and P2 corresponding to the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 after the movement. By controlling the scanning position by the optical scanner 42, the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 are caused to execute OCT measurement.

  In FIG. 6C, when the scan pattern is composed of two or more scan areas, the user integrally moves at least a part of the two or more scan pattern images corresponding to the two or more scan areas. Is possible.

  The movement of the scan pattern image (scan area) may be limited to a scannable range of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus 1. Specifically, the measurement control unit 2111 obtains the position of the scan pattern image moved as described above, and the entire scan pattern image after moving to the obtained position is within the display range corresponding to the scanable range. It is determined whether it is included in. When it is determined that the entire scan pattern image after movement is not included in the display range, the measurement control unit 2111 performs the above movement so that the entire scan pattern image after movement falls within the display range. The position of the scan pattern image on which the operation has been performed is obtained. Accordingly, the display control unit 2112 can change the display positions of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 within the display range R1 of the display unit 241 corresponding to the scannable range.

  Further, when a movement request for a scan pattern image exceeding a scanable range of a predetermined movement amount in a predetermined movement direction is made using the operation unit 242, the scan pattern image can be moved as follows. is there.

  A first operation example when a scan pattern image movement request is made will be described with further reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, the same parts as those in FIG.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, a movement request for the scan pattern image SP1 that exceeds the scanable range (display range R1) of the movement amount d3 (first movement amount) in the movement direction D3 (first movement direction) uses the operation unit 242. The measurement control unit 2111 obtains a position where the scan pattern image SP1 comes into contact with the edge of the scannable range, and moves from the contact position in the direction D3 ′ (second movement direction) opposite to the movement direction D3. The movement position moved by the amount d3 is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the moved scan pattern image SP1 ′ at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the movement position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111 (state shown in FIG. 7). Similarly, when the movement request of the scan pattern image SP2 exceeding the scanable range (display range R1) of the movement amount d4 in the movement direction D4 is made using the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 scans in the movement path. The position where the pattern image SP2 contacts the edge of the scannable range is obtained, and the movement position moved by the movement amount d4 from the contact position in the direction D4 ′ opposite to the movement direction D4 is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the moved scan pattern image SP2 ′ at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the movement position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111 (state shown in FIG. 7).

  That is, when the requested movement destination is located outside the scannable range by the first movement amount in the first movement direction, the display control unit 2112 changes the display position of the scan pattern image in contact with the edge of the scannable range. The first movement amount can be changed in the second movement direction, which is the opposite direction of the first movement direction. As a result, even when a scan pattern movement request that exceeds the scannable range is made, an intersection region can be placed at an arbitrary position within the scannable range, and the target region can be scanned without reducing the area of the scan region. It can be performed.

  A second operation example when a scan pattern image movement request is made will be described with further reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B. 8A and 8B show an example of operation when a rotational movement request is made with reference to the position Q1 in the intersecting region C1, and the same parts as in FIG. To do.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, when the movement request for the scan pattern image SP1 exceeding the scannable range (display range R1) in the predetermined rotation direction RD1 is made using the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 As shown, the position (contact position) at which the scan pattern image SP1 contacts the edge of the scannable range is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the scan pattern image SP1 ′ after rotation at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the contact position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111. Similarly, the display control unit 2112 displays the rotated scan pattern image SP2 ′ at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the contact position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111 (state shown in FIG. 8A).

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, when a movement request for the scan pattern image SP2 exceeding the scannable range (display range R1) in the predetermined rotation direction RD2 is made using the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 As shown in FIG. 8B, the position (contact position) where the scan pattern image SP2 contacts the edge of the scannable range is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the rotated scan pattern image SP2 ″ at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the contact position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111. Similarly, the display control unit 2112 displays the rotated scan pattern image SP1 ″ at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the contact position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111 (state shown in FIG. 8B).

  That is, when a scan pattern image movement request exceeding the scannable range is made using the operation unit, the display control unit performs at least the movement of the display position of the scan pattern image in contact with the edge of the scannable range. Can stop at position. As a result, even when a scan pattern movement request exceeding the scannable range is made, an intersection region can be placed at an arbitrary position within the scannable range, and the target region can be scanned without reducing the area of the scan region. It can be carried out.

  8A and 8B, the case where the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 (the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2) are integrally rotated has been described, but this embodiment is not limited thereto. Is not to be done. For example, in FIG. 8A, the scan pattern image SP1 (first scan region P1) may be rotated and moved while the scan pattern image SP2 (second scan region P2) is fixed. In FIG. 8B, the scan pattern image SP2 may be rotated and moved while the scan pattern image SP1 is fixed. Further, when the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 are translated, the movement of the display position of the scan pattern image in contact with the edge of the scannable range is stopped at the contact position as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. It may be.

  Also, the scan pattern can be translated after the rotational movement described above.

  A third operation example when a scan pattern image movement request is made will be described with further reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, when a rotation movement request for the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 is made as shown in FIG. 9A, the rotated scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 correspond to the displayable range R1. Even in a state that is not parallel to the boundary, it is possible to translate at least one of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 (rotation is also possible). For example, in the case of FIG. 9A, the intersecting region C1 of the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 can be arranged at an arbitrary position within the arrangement range C2.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 9B, when a movement request for the scan pattern image SP2 exceeding the scannable range (display range R1) is made using the operation unit 242, the scan pattern is displayed in the same manner as in FIG. 8A or 8B. It is possible to move. Specifically, when a movement request for the scan pattern image SP2 exceeding the scanable range (display range R1) of the movement amount d5 in the movement direction D5 is made using the operation unit 242, the measurement control unit 2111 displays the scan pattern. The position at which the image SP2 contacts the edge of the scannable range is obtained, and the movement position moved by the movement amount d5 from the contact position in the direction D5 ′ opposite to the movement direction D5 is obtained. The display control unit 2112 displays the moved scan pattern image SP2 ′ at the display position of the display unit 241 corresponding to the movement position obtained by the measurement control unit 2111.

  As described above, since the scan pattern can be moved in any direction with respect to the scan pattern in any direction, for example, a cross-sectional image along a desired site such as a straight line connecting the macula and the optic disc or a desired image It is possible to easily observe a cross-sectional image crossing the path.

(Other operation examples related to scan patterns)
Using the user interface 240, the user can change the size of the scan pattern used for the live scan and the arrangement of the scan lines in the scan area.

  The operation unit 242 receives a size changing operation for changing the size of at least a part of two or more scan pattern images by the user. The size of the scan pattern image includes the length, width, area, etc. of the scan pattern image in a predetermined direction. The size changing operation is performed, for example, by inputting a new size value for a size selected from the changeable size group, or by changing the boundary portion of the scan pattern image. . When the touch panel functions as the display unit 241 and the operation unit 242, for example, the size change operation is performed by designating the boundary of the scan pattern image displayed in the display area of the display unit 241 by the touch operation and dragging the boundary. This is done by being moved by operation. Subsequently, the measurement control unit 2111 obtains new display positions of the first scan region P1 and the second scan region P2 in which the size change is designated based on the operation content with respect to the operation unit 242. Note that the measurement control unit 2111 may arrange the scan lines in the scan area, for example, at equal intervals according to the size of the scan area after the size change. The display control unit 2112 displays the scan pattern image SP1 at a display position corresponding to the position of the first scan region P1 obtained by the measurement control unit 2111, and the position of the second scan region P2 obtained by the measurement control unit 2111. The scan pattern image SP2 is displayed at the display position corresponding to. When the position after the size change is determined, the measurement control unit 2111 controls the scan position by the optical scanner 42 based on the scan lines in the scan areas P1 and P2 corresponding to the scan pattern images SP1 and SP2 after the size change. Thus, the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 are caused to execute OCT measurement.

  That is, the display control unit 2112 can change the display size of at least a part of two or more scan pattern images whose sizes have been changed using the operation unit 242 in accordance with the size change operation. This makes it possible to change the size of the scan pattern according to the site of interest, and the user can easily observe the desired site of interest based on the scan pattern having a suitable size within the scannable range. When a size change request is made so that the scan area after the size change protrudes from the scannable range, the process may be performed as described above. Specifically, it is possible to accept only the size change request within the scannable range, or to add the protruding portion to the opposite side.

  In addition, the user can change the arrangement interval of the scan lines in the scan area by using the user interface 240.

  The operation unit 242 receives an operation for changing the relative positions of two or more scan lines by the user. The change in the relative position of two or more scan lines includes a change in the interval between adjacent scan lines, a change in the scan position (scan start position or scan end position) of adjacent scan lines, and the like. The change in the relative position of two or more scan lines may be a concept that includes a change in scan direction. The operation for changing the relative position of two or more scan lines is, for example, specifying a desired scan line and moving the specified scan line while fixing the scan line adjacent to the specified scan line. Is done. When the touch panel functions as the display unit 241 and the operation unit 242, an operation for changing the relative positions of two or more scan lines is adjacent to a touch operation for designating a desired scan line and a designated scan line. A drag operation for moving the designated scan line in a state in which the scan line to be fixed is fixed.

  The measurement control unit 2111 causes the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100 to perform OCT measurement by controlling the scan position by the optical scanner 42 based on two or more scan lines whose relative positions have been changed. As a result, the arrangement density of the scan lines can be appropriately changed, and the user can perform detailed observation according to a desired site of interest.

(Operation example regarding display)
An example of information display is shown in FIG. In this example, a case where a scan pattern of “5-line cross” is applied will be described, but a similar display process can be executed even when another scan pattern is applied.

  A display screen 300 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed on the display unit 241 by the display control unit 2112. The display screen 300 is provided with a first moving image display area 301, a second moving image display area 302, and a front image display area 303.

  In the front image display area 303, an observation image H of the fundus oculi Ef is displayed. The observation image H is an infrared moving image. The front image display area 303 further includes a scan line image SL1 corresponding to the first scan line group SC1 in the first scan area P1, and a scan line corresponding to the second scan line group SC2 in the second scan area P2. The image SL2 is displayed. In this example, the scan line images SL1 and SL2 are displayed on the observation image H. On the observation image H, a display range R1 corresponding to the scannable range is displayed. The display range R1 may be displayed or may not be displayed.

  In the first moving image display area 301, a moving image (first moving image) G1 obtained by repeatedly scanning the first scan line group SC1 in the first scan area P1 corresponding to the scan line image SL1 is displayed. The In the second moving image display region 302, a moving image (second moving image) G2 obtained by repeatedly scanning the second scan line group SC2 in the second scan region P2 corresponding to the scan line image SL2 is displayed. The As described above, in this example, the first scan along at least one scan line constituting the first scan line group SC1 and the second scan along at least one scan line constituting the second scan line group SC2. A scan is performed.

  The display control unit 2112 first generates cross-sectional images sequentially formed by the image forming unit 220 from data obtained by the first scan at a predetermined frame rate (for example, equal to or a multiple of the repetition rate of the first scan). By displaying it in the moving image display area 301, the first moving image G1 is displayed. Similarly, the display control unit 2112 generates a cross-sectional image sequentially formed by the image forming unit 220 from data obtained by the second scan at a predetermined frame rate (for example, equal to or an integral multiple of the repetition rate of the second scan). By displaying in the second moving image display area 302, the second moving image G2 is displayed.

  The first moving image display area 301 is arranged in a direction corresponding to the scan line image SL1. In this example, the first moving image display area 301 is rectangular, and the orientations of the upper and lower sides thereof coincide with the orientation of the scan line image SL1. That is, in FIG. 10, the scan line image SL1 is a line segment (arrow) extending in the left-right direction, and the upper side and the lower side of the first moving image display area 301 extend in the left-right direction. In the observation image H, the left-right direction corresponds to the x direction, and the up-down direction corresponds to the y direction. In the first moving image display area 301, the direction of the upper side and the lower side (left and right direction) corresponds to the x direction, and the left side and right side (up and down direction) correspond to the z direction. Therefore, the direction (x direction) of the scan line image SL1 displayed on the observation image H and the direction (x direction) of the cross section of the first moving image G1 displayed in the first moving image display area 301 are the same. I'm doing it.

  Similarly, the second moving image display area 302 is arranged in a direction corresponding to the image SL2 of the scan line. In this example, the second moving image display area 302 is rectangular, and the direction of the left side and the right side thereof coincides with the direction of the image SL2 of the scan line. That is, in FIG. 10, the scan line image SL2 is a line segment (arrow) extending in the vertical direction, and the left side and the right side of the second moving image display region 302 extend in the vertical direction. As described above, in the observation image H, the left-right direction corresponds to the x direction, and the up-down direction corresponds to the y direction. In the second moving image display area 302, the direction of the left side and the right side (up and down direction) corresponds to the y direction, and the upper side and the lower side (left and right direction) correspond to the z direction. Therefore, the direction (y direction) of the scan line image SL2 displayed on the observation image H and the direction (y direction) of the cross section of the second moving image G2 displayed in the second moving image display area 302 are the same. I'm doing it.

  Also, information indicating the correspondence between the scan line image SL1 and the first moving image G1 (first correspondence information), and information indicating the correspondence between the scan line image SL2 and the second moving image G2 (second correspondence information). Can be displayed. In this example, display colors are used as the first correspondence information and the second correspondence information. Specifically, the display control unit 2112 displays the scan line image SL1 and the frame of the first moving image G1 (the frame of the first moving image display area 301) in the first color, and the image of the scan line. SL2 and the frame of the second moving image G2 (the frame of the second moving image display area 302) are displayed in a second color different from the first color.

  Also, information indicating the correspondence between the scan position where the scan line image SL1 is arranged and the scan position in the second moving image G2 (third correspondence information), the scan position where the scan line image SL2 is arranged, and the first Information indicating the correspondence with the scan position in the moving image G1 (fourth correspondence information) can be displayed. In the second moving image G2, a scan position designation line 304 indicating a position corresponding to the scan position where the scan line image SL1 is arranged is displayed. In the first moving image G1, a scan position designation line 305 indicating a position corresponding to the scan position where the scan line image SL2 is arranged is displayed. In this example, display colors are used as the third correspondence information and the fourth correspondence information. Specifically, the display control unit 2112 displays the scan line image SL1 and the scan position designation line 304 in the first moving image G1 in the first color, and the scan line image SL2 and the second moving image G2. The scan position designation line 305 is displayed in a second color different from the first color. As the third correspondence information and the fourth correspondence information, line display modes (solid line, wavy line, alternate long and short dash line, line thickness, etc.) may be used.

  On the left side of the first moving image display area 301, a marker 306 indicating the focus position of the measurement light LS is provided. The focusing position of the measurement light LS corresponds to the position of the focusing lens 43. The focusing lens 43 is moved by the OCT focusing drive unit 43A. The display control unit 2112 displays the marker 306 based on the current position of the focusing lens 43 (that is, the control state with respect to the OCT focusing driving unit 43A). The in-focus position changes in the z direction, and the direction (vertical direction) along the left side of the first moving image display area 301 corresponds to the z direction. Therefore, the position of the marker 306 changes along the left side.

  Further, the user can move the marker 306. The operation for that is performed by touch operation which touches a desired position, when the display part 241 is a touch panel. When the display unit 241 is not a touch panel, the user operates the operation unit 242. This operation is, for example, an operation of clicking a desired position or an operation of dragging the marker 306. When the marker 306 is moved, the main control unit 211 controls the OCT focusing drive unit 43A based on the position of the marker 306 after the movement, thereby focusing on the position corresponding to the position of the marker 306 after the movement. The lens 43 is moved.

  The area provided on the display screen 300 is not limited to that shown in FIG. As typical examples, an area where information about the subject and the eye E is displayed, an area where the anterior eye image of the eye E is displayed (anterior eye image display area), various software keys, and the like May be provided on the display screen 300.

  An example relating to the display of the anterior segment image and the processing executed accordingly will be described. The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to this example includes a pair of video cameras for obtaining an image of the anterior segment of the eye E to be examined. The pair of video cameras captures the anterior segment simultaneously from different directions. The display control unit 2112 displays an upper half image area (upper half area) of the video obtained by the first video camera and a lower half image area (lower half area) of the video obtained by the second video camera. They are displayed side by side in the anterior segment image display area. The control unit 210 (or the data processing unit 230) detects an image (specific part image) of a specific part (pupil, iris, etc.) by analyzing the upper half area and the lower half area, and specifies the specific part in the upper half area. The displacement between the region image and the specific region image in the lower half region is calculated, and the optical system (OCT optical system, fundus camera optical system) is moved so as to cancel the displacement. Thereby, alignment of the optical system with respect to the eye E can be performed. Further, the above processing is repeatedly executed in real time based on frames sequentially acquired by a pair of video cameras, thereby performing tracking for causing the optical system to follow the movement of the eye E, and performing OCT and imaging of the fundus oculi Ef. Or observation.

(Other operation examples)
Another example of operations that can be executed according to this embodiment will be described.

  In this embodiment, the case where the display position of the scan pattern image is controlled when a request for moving the scan pattern image exceeding the scannable range is made using the operation unit 242 has been described. You may do it. For example, the measurement control unit 2111 may move the scannable range in the requested movement direction. In this case, the measurement control unit 2111 moves the scan position by the optical scanner 42 by a predetermined movement amount (or a designated movement amount) in a direction corresponding to the requested movement direction. As a result, it is possible to observe the site of interest at the requested post-movement position even outside the scannable range.

  For example, the measurement control unit 2111 may cause the LCD 39 to change the projection position of the fixation target so that the scanable range is moved in the requested movement direction. In this case, the measurement control unit 2111 moves the fixation target display position on the screen of the LCD 39 by a predetermined movement amount (or a designated movement amount) in a direction corresponding to the requested movement direction. Change the projected position of the target. As a result, it is possible to observe the site of interest at the requested post-movement position even outside the scannable range.

  In the above example, the cross scan has been described as an example. However, the present invention can also be applied to a scan pattern in which two or more scan areas are crossed like a radial scan.

[Action / Effect]
Several actions and effects of the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described.

  The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to the embodiment acquires a cross-sectional image by scanning the eye to be examined using OCT. Further, the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus is detected by a measurement unit (for example, the fundus camera unit 2 and the OCT unit 100) and a photographing unit (CCD image sensor 35 or CCD image sensor 38, or CCD image sensor 35 or CCD image sensor 38). It may further include an optical system for generating fundus reflection light, a display control unit (for example, display control unit 2112), an operation unit (for example, operation unit 242), and a measurement control unit (for example, measurement). Control unit 2111).

  The measurement unit performs OCT. The imaging unit captures a moving image of the eye E. The display control unit includes a moving image acquired by the imaging unit, and two or more scan pattern images arranged so as to intersect at least two corresponding to two or more scan lines representing a scan position and a scan direction in the moving image. Is displayed on the display means (for example, the display unit 241). The operation unit is used to change the relative positions of two or more scan pattern images. The measurement control unit causes the measurement unit to execute OCT based on two or more scan lines corresponding to two or more scan pattern images after the relative position is changed.

  According to such a configuration, a scan pattern having two or more scan pattern images arranged so that at least two intersect each other is displayed on the display unit, and the relative position of the two or more scan pattern images is determined using the operation unit. Since it is changed, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom of movement of the intersecting region of two or more scan pattern images and to improve the degree of freedom of scanning.

  The operation unit is used for a first movement operation for moving one of the two or more scan pattern images, and the display control unit changes the display position of the scan pattern image according to the first movement operation. May be.

  According to such a configuration, by moving one of the two or more scan pattern images while confirming the display position of the scan pattern image displayed on the display means, the intersection area of the scan pattern images is set to a desired position. It becomes possible to move.

  The operation unit is used for a second movement operation for integrally moving at least a part of the two or more scan pattern images, and the display control unit is a display position of at least a part of the two or more scan pattern images. May be changed according to the second movement operation.

  According to such a configuration, at least a part of the two or more scan pattern images is integrally moved while confirming the display position of the scan pattern image displayed on the display means, thereby the intersection region of the scan pattern images is determined. It becomes possible to move to a desired position.

  The second movement operation may include an operation of dragging an intersecting region where at least two of the two or more scan pattern images intersect.

  According to such a configuration, the intersection area of two or more scan pattern images is dragged while confirming the display position of the scan pattern image displayed on the display means, thereby bringing the intersection area of the scan pattern images to a desired position. It is possible to move, and it is possible to easily observe the site of interest.

  The second movement operation may include an operation of dragging a position in a moving image different from two or more scan pattern images.

  According to such a configuration, by confirming the display position of the scan pattern image displayed on the display means, by dragging a position in the moving image that is different from the two or more scan pattern images, the intersection area of the scan pattern images is determined. It is possible to move to a desired position, and it is possible to easily observe the site of interest.

  The measurement unit may perform OCT within a predetermined scannable range, and the display control unit may be able to change the display position of two or more scan pattern images within the display range corresponding to the scannable range. .

  According to such a configuration, the display position of the scan pattern image can be changed within the display range corresponding to the scannable range displayed on the display means, so that a situation in which OCT measurement is impossible is not caused. It is possible to easily observe the site of interest.

  In addition, the display control unit may display an image representing the scannable range so as to overlap the moving image.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to change the display position of the scan pattern image while confirming the display range corresponding to the scannable range displayed on the display means, and observe the region of interest within the range where OCT measurement is possible. Can be performed easily.

  In addition, when the movement request of the scan pattern image exceeding the scanable range of the first movement amount in the first movement direction is made using the operation unit, the display control unit scans the scan pattern in contact with the edge of the scannable range. The image display position may be changed by a first movement amount in a second movement direction that is opposite to the first movement direction.

  According to such a configuration, even when a scan pattern movement request exceeding the scannable range is made, an intersection region can be arranged at an arbitrary position within the scannable range and the area of the scan region can be reduced. It is possible to scan the attention site.

  In addition, when a movement request for a scan pattern image exceeding the scannable range is made using the operation unit, the display control unit performs at least the movement of the display position of the scan pattern image in contact with the edge of the scannable range. You may stop at the position.

  According to such a configuration, even when a scan pattern movement request exceeding the scannable range is made, the crossing region is arranged at an arbitrary position within the scannable range, and the area of the scan region is not reduced. A site of interest can be scanned.

  Further, when the movement request for the scan pattern image exceeding the scannable range is made using the operation unit, the measurement control unit may move the scannable range in the requested movement direction.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to observe the site of interest at the requested post-movement position even outside the scannable range.

  Further, the measurement control unit includes a fixation target projection unit (for example, LCD 39) that projects the fixation target on the eye to be examined, and when the movement request for the scan pattern image exceeding the scannable range is made using the operation unit. The fixation target projection unit may change the projection position of the fixation target so that the scanable range is moved in the requested movement direction.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to observe the site of interest at the requested post-movement position even outside the scannable range.

  The operation unit is used for a size change operation for changing at least a part of the size of two or more scan pattern images, and the display control unit is used for a size change operation of a display size of at least part of the two or more scan pattern images. You may change according to.

  According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to change the size of the scan pattern according to the target region, and the user can easily observe the desired target region based on the scan pattern having a suitable size within the scannable range. can do.

  In addition, at least a part of the two or more scan pattern images includes two or more scan lines, the operation unit is used for an operation for changing the relative position of the two or more scan lines, and the measurement control unit The measurement unit may perform OCT based on two or more scan lines whose positions have been changed.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately change the arrangement density of the scan lines, and the user can perform detailed observation according to a desired site of interest.

  The configuration described above is merely an example for favorably implementing the present invention. Therefore, arbitrary modifications (omitted, replacement, addition, etc.) within the scope of the present invention can be made as appropriate. The configuration to be applied is selected according to the purpose, for example. In addition, depending on the configuration to be applied, a function and effect obvious to those skilled in the art and the function and effect described in this specification can be obtained.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ophthalmic imaging device 2 Fundus camera unit 100 OCT unit 200 Arithmetic control unit 210 Control part 211 Main control part 212 Storage part 2111 Measurement control part 2112 Display control part 220 Image formation part 230 Data processing part 240 User interface 241 Display part 242 Operation part E Eye to be examined

Claims (7)

An ophthalmologic imaging apparatus that acquires a cross-sectional image by scanning an eye to be examined using optical coherence tomography,
A measurement unit for performing optical coherence tomography;
An imaging unit for imaging the eye to be examined;
A moving image acquired by the photographing unit; a first scan area corresponding to two or more scan lines representing a scanning position and a scanning direction in the moving image; and two or more representing a scanning position and a scanning direction in the moving image. A display control unit that causes a display unit to display a second scan area corresponding to a scan line and intersecting the first scan area;
An operation unit for changing a relative position between the first scan area and the second scan area;
Causing the measurement unit to perform optical coherence tomography based on two or more scan lines corresponding to the first scan region and two or more scan lines corresponding to the second scan region after the relative position is changed An ophthalmologic photographing apparatus including a measurement control unit. The two or more scan lines are parallel to each other;
The boundary on the scan start position side of at least one of the first scan area and the second scan area is defined by the start positions of the two or more scan lines,
The boundary on the scan end position side of at least one of the first scan area and the second scan area is defined by the end positions of the two or more scan lines.
The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to claim 1. At least one of the first scan area and the second scan area is defined by a position further away from the two scan lines outside the two or more scan lines by a predetermined distance.
The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to claim 1. The operation unit is used for a size change operation for changing a size of at least one of the first scan area and the second scan area,
The said measurement control part arrange | positions the 2 or more scan line from which the space | interval was changed according to the size of the scan area | region after size change. Ophthalmic photography device. The operation unit is used for a rotational movement operation for rotationally moving the first scan area or the second scan area,
The display control unit fixes the other display position of the first scan area and the second scan area according to the rotational movement operation in a state where one display position of the first scan area and the second scan area is fixed. Move the display position,
The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus is characterized. The measurement control unit includes a first scan along at least one of two or more scan lines corresponding to the first scan area, and a first scan along at least one of two or more scan lines corresponding to the second scan area. To perform two scans alternately
The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus is characterized. The operation unit is used for an interval change operation for changing an interval between adjacent scan lines in at least one of the first scan region and the second scan region,
The display control unit changes an interval between adjacent scan lines in at least one of the first scan region and the second scan region according to the interval change operation,
The measurement control unit causes the measurement unit to perform optical coherence tomography based on the scan line in which the interval is changed.
The ophthalmologic photographing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the ophthalmologic photographing apparatus is characterized.

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