EP3707726A1

EP3707726A1 - Software for the characterisation of a model of anatomical parts

Info

Publication number: EP3707726A1
Application number: EP18796779.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Paolo TINAZZI MARTINI; Massimo PREGARZ
Original assignee: Iconreport Srl
Current assignee: Iconreport Srl
Priority date: 2017-11-08
Filing date: 2018-10-22
Publication date: 2020-09-16
Also published as: WO2019092529A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a software for the characterisation of an anatomical part, comprising a computer code (1) that, when executed by an electronic processor (10), carries out the following steps: the step (S1) of making available a model of the anatomical part, the step (S7) of displaying a two- dimensional image (21) of said model (20) of the anatomical part, the step (S4) of making available an archive provided with a plurality of lesion models (40, 41, 42...59), the step (S10) of displaying a graphic element (60) for each lesion model (40, 41, 42...59) in the archive, the step (S11) of allowing the selection of a graphic element (60) corresponding to a lesion model (52), the step (S12) of allowing the positioning of the graphic element (60) on the displayed two- dimensional image (21), so as to generate a comprehensive two-dimensional image (71), the step (S13) of acquiring the value of at least one parameter indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion, and the step (S15) of changing, on the basis of value of the acquired parameter, at least one dimension of the lesion model (52).

Description

SOFTWARE FOR THE CHARACTERISATION OF A MODEL OF ANATOMICAL PARTS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a software for the characterisation of a model of anatomical parts, in particular it relates to a software for the characterisation of a model of anatomical parts adapted to generate a standardised medical report.

PRIOR ART

Medical examinations through images, for example ultrasound scans, computerised axial tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging, provide as their output a series of grayscale images, each of which illustrates a section, for example an axial section, of the patient's body.

These images, for example figure 1 exemplifying a pancreas in which a tumour, indicated by the white arrow, is present, cannot be interpreted immediately, because their resolution is not particularly high and in many cases the boundary between a type of tissue and another is not well defined.

Reporting physicians are tasked with analysing the images and preparing a report explaining in words the patient's conditions as they can be extrapolated from studying the images, for example the conformation of the organ and the presence of any tumours.

One problem with this reporting methodology is that a second physician, for example a surgeon, when having to read the report, must necessarily seek what the reporting physician stated in the images of the medical examination, which, as stated previously, cannot be interpreted immediately.

An additional problem of the current reporting methodology is that the precision of the report and its understandability by third parties depends on the capability of each individual reporting physician, so it can be imprecise and/or incomprehensible for another physician reading the report.

An object of the present invention is to make available a reporting aid software which enables third party to interpret the report without having to analyse the images of the medical examination. This object is achieved by the features of the invention set forth in the independent claim.

The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention makes available a software for the characterisation of an anatomical part, comprising a computer code that, when executed by an electronic processor, carries out the steps of: making available a model of the anatomical part, displaying a two-dimensional image of said model of the anatomical part, making available an archive provided with a plurality of lesion models, displaying a graphic element for each lesion model in the archive, allowing the selection of a graphic element corresponding to a lesion, allowing the positioning of the selected graphic element on the displayed two-dimensional image, so as to generate a comprehensive two-dimensional image, acquiring the value of at least one parameter indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion, and changing, on the basis of value of the acquired parameter, at least one dimension of the lesion model.

Thanks to this solution, the comprehensibility of the report by third parties is improved compared to the usual reporting methodology.

According to one aspect of the invention, the step of allowing the positioning of the graphic element on the two-dimensional image can comprise the step of dragging the selected graphic element to an area of the displayed two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part.

In this way the software is particularly intuitive, further allowing an effective and fast positioning of the lesion model with respect to the model of the anatomical part.

According to another aspect of the invention, the computer code carries out the step of changing, on the basis of the acquired parameter, at least one dimension of the graphic element of the selected lesion model in the comprehensive two-dimensional image.

In this way the mere display of the comprehensive two-dimensional image provides an indication of the dimensions of the lesion with respect to the rest of the anatomical part.

Preferably, according to a further aspect of the invention the computer code can carry out the step of making available an archive of models of anatomical elements, and of displaying a two-dimensional image of each anatomical element on the displayed two-dimensional image of the anatomical part.

According to another aspect of the invention, the computer code can be configured to carry out the step of allowing said anatomical elements to be modified.

Thanks to this solution it is possible to make the model, or the comprehensive image, closer to the characteristics visible in the images of the medical examinations of the actual anatomical parts.

For example, the computer code can be configured to carry out the step of changing the relative position of the two-dimensional images of the anatomical elements and/or the dimension of said two-dimensional images.

Preferably, the step of displaying a two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part can comprise the step of displaying a main two-dimensional image representing a section of the anatomical part and the step of displaying a plurality of secondary two-dimensional images, each of which is representative of a respective section of the anatomical part.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the computer code carries out the step of determining the distance between a perimeter representing a section of the model of the lesion and a perimeter of a two-dimensional image, in the same section of the perimeter of the model of the lesion, of an anatomical element.

In addition, this step allows to verify the correct positioning of the model of the lesion in the model of the anatomical part checking whether the calculated measurements match, or otherwise are consistent with, the measurements obtainable from the medical examination by means of images.

Advantageously, the computer code can be configured to carry out the step of changing the extension of the perimeter of the model of the lesion on the basis of the value of the acquired parameter.

In this way it is possible to make the software model more realistic. According to another aspect of the invention, the computer code can provide for carrying out the step of generating on at least one of said secondary two- dimensional images a graphic element representing the lesion, on the basis of the positioning of the graphic element in the two-dimensional image and of the value of the acquired parameter.

Thanks to this solution, it is sufficient to position the centre of the graphic element of the model of the lesion in the model of the anatomical part in order for the graphic element to be positioned automatically in all the two-dimensional images representing sections that intersect the volume of the lesion, thus making faster and error-free the positioning of the graphic element in the various sections of the model of the anatomical part.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the computer code can be configured to carry out the step of generating a report containing the comprehensive two-dimensional image.

In this way it is possible to assimilate and comprehend the report visually without necessarily having to analyse the images of the medical examination. Advantageously, the model of the anatomical part can comprise a string of characters indicative of the anatomical part to which the model of the anatomical part refers and the model of the lesion can comprise a string of characters indicative of the lesion to which the model of the lesion refers, and the computer code can be configured to carry out the step of inserting said strings of characters in the report.

In this way the report comprises a description of the anatomical part and of the lesion that are not chosen by the individual reporting physician, but rather that were decided previously, thus making it possible to standardise the description and hence to facilitate comprehensibility by third parties, as well as to avoid misprints.

For example each model of an anatomical part comprises a plurality of strings of characters, composing, each in a different language, a same description of the main characteristics of the anatomical part to which they refer.

In this way, it is possible to translate the report into every language in which the description was translated. According to a further aspect of the invention, the computer code can be configured to carry out the step of allowing the selection of one or more points of the graphic element of the lesion model according to the position of peripheral appendages of the lesion, and to carry out the step of inserting into the report a comprehensive two-dimensional image comprising the graphic element of the model of the lesion whose points were selected and made visually distinguishable and at least the displayed two-dimensional image model of the anatomical part.

In this way it is possible to inform a third party, in a simple and effective way, of the position of the peripheral appendages without the third party's having to look at the images of the medical examination.

The invention also makes available an apparatus for the characterisation of a model of an anatomical part, comprising: storage means containing a model of the anatomical part and a plurality of lesion models, means for displaying the model of the anatomical part adapted to display a two-dimensional image of said model of the anatomical part, means for displaying the lesion models adapted to display a graphic element for each lesion model, means for selecting a lesion adapted to allow the selection of a lesion model stored in the storage means, associating means adapted to allow the positioning of the model in the displayed two-dimensional image, and means for modifying the lesion adapted to modify the model of the lesion associating to the model of the lesion a parameter indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion.

In addition, the invention makes available a method for the characterisation of a model of an anatomical part comprising the steps of: making available a model of the anatomical part, displaying a two-dimensional image of said model of the anatomical part, making available an archive provided with a plurality of lesion models, displaying a graphic element for each lesion model, allowing the selection of a graphic element corresponding to a lesion and the positioning of the graphic element on the displayed two-dimensional image, so as to generate a comprehensive two-dimensional image, acquiring the value of at least one parameter indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion, and changing, on the basis of the acquired parameter, at least one dimension of the lesion model.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention shall become readily apparent from reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting indication, with the aid of the figures illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 is an image of a medical examination by means of images in which a lesion within a pancreas is visible, indicated by a white arrow.

Figure 2 is a schematic representation of an electronic processor according to the invention.

Figure 3 is an image generated by the software according to the invention, which is representative of a coronal section of the pancreas in which a graphic element representative of a lesion is present.

Figure 4 is an image generated by the software according to the invention, which is representative of an axial section of the pancreas in which the graphic element representative of the lesion is present.

Figure 5 is an image generated by the software according to the invention, which is representative of an axial section of the pancreas and of the peripheral appendages of the lesion.

Figure 6 is a diagram of the operation of the software according to one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a report generated by the software.

BEST EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

The numeral 10 indicates, in its entirety, an electronic processor adapted to execute the computer code 1 of a software for the characterisation of an anatomical part. Preferably the software is directed at generating a report R for a medical examination by means of images, for example ultrasound scans, computerised axial tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging.

The anatomical part is preferably an organ, for example the pancreas or the liver.

The software is adapted to be utilised by a user who carries out an analysis of the images of the medical examination, for example by a reporting physician. The electronic computer 10 is, for example, a computer 1 1 on which a software is installed and through which the user imparts the commands to carry out the characterisation of the anatomical part.

Said computer comprises a display unit, for example a monitor 12, an input unit 13, a computing unit 14, a volatile memory unit, and a permanent memory unit 15, for example a hard disk.

The input unit 13 comprises a keyboard, a mouse.

The input unit 13 can also comprise a microphone for voice inputs.

In the preferred embodiment, the electronic computer 10 comprises an additional computer 16, which is connected through a network to the computer 1 1 and is provided with a permanent memory unit in which the computer code 1 of the software is stored.

In another embodiment, the computer code 1 can be stored in the permanent memory 15 of the computer 1 1 .

The computer code 1 , when executed by the electronic processor 10, carries out a plurality of steps that allow the characterisation of the anatomical part. The computer code 1 , when executed by the electronic processor 10, also carries out a plurality of steps that allow the preparation of a report that describes the characterisation of the anatomical part.

For the sake of brevity, in the rest of the description it will be omitted that the step carried out by the computer code 1 is carried out when the computer code 1 is executed by the electronic processor 10.

The computer code 1 carries out the step of making available a model of the anatomical part to be characterised.

For example, the computer code 1 carries out the step S1 of making available an archive of anatomical parts provided with a plurality of models of different anatomical parts.

The archive of models of anatomical parts is contained in a permanent memory unit of the electronic processor 10.

Preferably, the archive of models of anatomical parts comprises the plurality of models 20 of the pancreas anatomical part.

For example, the archive of models of anatomical parts comprises a model 20a of the pancreas anatomical part relating to a fibrous pancreas, a model 20b of the pancreas anatomical part relating to an enlarged pancreas, a model 20c of the pancreas anatomical part relating to an involute pancreas, a model 20d of the pancreas anatomical part relating to a pancreas with lymphomatosis, a model 20e of the pancreas anatomical part relating to a normal pancreas, a model 20f of the pancreas anatomical part relating to a pancreas affected by diffuse autoimmune pancreatitis.

The archive of models of anatomical parts also comprises a model of the anatomical part liver.

Moreover, the archive of models of anatomical parts comprises a model of the stomach anatomical part, a model of the spleen anatomical part, a model of the colon anatomical part.

The archive of anatomical parts can comprise any other anatomical part of the human body.

Each model of an anatomical part comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images, each showing a section of the anatomical part identified by the intersection of the anatomical part itself with an intersecting plane.

"Two-dimensional image" means a graphic representation, for example stylised, which is provided with at least one (external) perimeter, i.e. a contour, and an area inside said perimeter.

In practice, each two-dimensional image of a model of an anatomical has at least one perimeter representing the outer surface of the anatomical part itself and defined by the intersection of the anatomical part with a respective intersecting plane.

In the preferred embodiment the model of the anatomical part comprises at least a two-dimensional image representing a coronal section of the anatomical part, i.e. representing the intersection of the anatomical part with a plane parallel to the coronal plane, and a plurality of two-dimensional images, each representing an axial section of the anatomical part, i.e. each representing the intersection of the anatomical part with a respective plane parallel to the axial plane.

For example, the model 20 of the anatomical part pancreas comprises a two- dimensional image 21 representing a coronal section of the pancreas, i.e. defined by the intersection between a plane parallel to the coronal plane and the outer surface of the pancreas, and at least one two-dimensional image 22 representing an axial section of the pancreas.

Preferably, the model 20 of the anatomical part pancreas comprises a plurality di two-dimensional image, each representing an axial section of the pancreas, i.e. defined by the intersection of a respective plane parallel to the axial plane and the outer surface of the pancreas itself.

"Axial plane" means a horizontal plane that divides the human body into an upper portion and a lower portion.

In addition, in this description "coronal plane" means a vertical plane that divides the human body into a front portion and a rear portion, and "sagittal plane" means a vertical plane perpendicular to the coronal plane and to the axial plane that divides the body into a left portion and a right portion.

The model of the anatomical part liver comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images, each representing an axial section of the liver, i.e. defined by the intersection of a respective plane parallel to the axial plane and the outer surface of the liver itself.

In a Cartesian three-dimensional reference system, the two-dimensional image representing a coronal section is perpendicular to the images representing the axial sections and intersects them.

In addition, in this Cartesian three-dimensional reference system, the images representing the axial sections are parallel to each other and positioned at predetermined distances from each other.

In an alternative embodiment not shown herein, the model of an anatomical part comprises a three-dimensional surface representing the outer surface of the anatomical part.

Each model of an anatomical part comprises a string of characters 23 indicating the anatomical part to which the model corresponds.

This string of characters 23 composes a description of the main characteristics of the anatomical part to which the model refers.

For example, each model of an anatomical part comprises a plurality of strings of characters 23 composing, each in a different language, a same description of the main characteristics of the anatomical part to which they refer.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S2 of making available an archive of anatomical elements provided with a plurality of models of different anatomical parts.

Some models of anatomical elements represent anatomical elements of the anatomical part, for example of the organ, and other models of anatomical elements represent anatomical elements of interest external to the anatomical part to be characterise, for example proximal thereto.

In the preferred embodiment, the archive of models of anatomical elements comprises at least one among a model 30 of the anatomical element of the abdominal aorta, a model 31 of the anatomical element of the celiac tripod, a model 32 of the anatomical element of the gall bladder, a model 33 of the anatomical element of the duct of Wirsung, a model 34 of the anatomical element of the duodenum, a model 35 of the anatomical element of the inferior vena cava, a model 36 of the anatomical element of the vena porta, a model 37 of the anatomical element of the superior mesenteric artery.

Each model of an anatomical element comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images, each representing a section of the anatomical element identified by the intersection of the anatomical element with a respective plane.

For example each of these planes also defines a corresponding section of the anatomical part and on each of them lies a corresponding two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part.

For example, each two-dimensional image of a model of an anatomical element has a perimeter representing the outer surface of the anatomical element on that plane, in which said perimeter is defined by the intersection of the anatomical element with a respective plane on which lies a (corresponding) two- dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part.

In one embodiment, each model of an anatomical element comprises a two- dimensional image representing a coronal section of the anatomical element, for example defined by the intersection between a plane parallel to the coronal plane and the outer surface of the anatomical element.

This plane defining the coronal section of the anatomical element is the same plane defining the respective two-dimensional image representing the corresponding coronal section of the anatomical part.

In this embodiment, the model of the anatomical element further comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images, each representing an axial section of the anatomical element, for example defined by the intersection of a respective plane parallel to the axial plane and the outer surface of the anatomical element.

These planes defining the axial sections of the anatomical element are the same planes defining the respective two-dimensional images representing the axial sections of the anatomical part.

In the preferred embodiment, the two-dimensional image of an anatomical element representing a coronal section of the anatomical element is defined by the intersection of the outer surface of the anatomical element with the plane on which lies the two-dimensional image 25 defining the coronal section of the model 10 of the anatomical part pancreas.

The two-dimensional images of an anatomical element each representing a respective axial section of the anatomical element are defined by the intersection of the outer surface of the anatomical element with the planes on which lie the two-dimensional images defining the axial sections of the anatomical part. In an alternative embodiment not shown herein, the model of the anatomical part comprises a three-dimensional surface representing the outer surface of the anatomical part.

Each model of an anatomical element comprises a string of characters 38 indicating the anatomical element to which the model corresponds.

This string of characters 38 composes a description of the main characteristics of the anatomical element to which the model refers.

For example, each model of an anatomical element comprises a plurality of strings of characters 38 composing, each in a different language, a same description of the main characteristics of the anatomical element to which they refer.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S3 of allowing the association of at least one model of an anatomical element and a model of anatomical part. This step comprises superposing and/or setting by side graphically, for example with respect to a predefined viewpoint, the two-dimensional images of the model of anatomical elements to the two-dimensional images of the anatomical part, for example maintaining them as separate entities.

In the preferred embodiment, the step S3 comprises associating to the model 20 of the anatomical part pancreas at least one among the model 30 of the anatomical element of the abdominal aorta, the model 31 of the anatomical element of the celiac tripod, the model 32 of the anatomical element of the gall bladder, the model 33 of the anatomical element of the duct of Wirsung, the model 34 of the anatomical element of the duodenum, the model 35 of the anatomical element of the inferior vena cava, the model 36 of the anatomical element of the vena porta, the model 37 of the anatomical element of the superior mesenteric artery.

For example, the step S3 comprises associating all the aforementioned models of anatomical elements to the model 20 of the anatomical part pancreas. Moreover, the computer code 1 carries out the step of allowing the association of at least one model of an anatomical part to another model of an anatomical part.

For example, this step comprises the step of associating to the two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part liver, the two-dimensional images of the anatomical part stomach, of the anatomical part colon and of the anatomical part spleen.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S4 of making available an archive of lesion models.

For example, the archive of lesion models comprises at least one among a lesion model 40 representing an undetermined lesion, a lesion model 41 representing an acinar cell tumour, a lesion model 42 representing an adenocarcinoma, a lesion model 43 representing an anaplastic tumour, a lesion model 44 representing a mucinous cystadenoma, a lesion model 45 representing a serous cystadenoma, a lesion model 46 representing an IPMN, a lesion model 47 representing a lymphoma, a lesion model 48 representing a lymph node, a lesion model 49 representing a hypervascular metastasis, a lesion model 50 representing a neuroendocrine tumour, a lesion model 51 representing a focal autoimmune pancreatitis, a lesion model 52 representing an endocrine tumour, a lesion model 53 representing a pseudocyst, a lesion model 54 representing an infected pseudocyst, a lesion model 55 representing a reduced pseudocyst, a lesion model 56 representing an ectopic splenic tissue, a lesion model 57 representing a solid pseudopapillary tumour, a lesion model 58 representing a gastrointestinal stromal tumour, a lesion model 59 representing a walled off necrosis.

Each lesion model comprises a graphic element, for example a two-dimensional icon 60, visually distinguishable from the graphic elements of the other lesion models.

For example, each icon is shaped as a circle, whose inner area has a different pattern for each lesion model.

For example, each icon comprises, within the circle, an acronym representing the lesion model.

Each lesion model comprises a three-dimensional surface, for example ellipsoidal (not shown).

In the preferred embodiment, the ellipsoidal three-dimensional surface encloses within it a volume whose value is defined by the formula V=(A/2)^*(B/2)^*(C/2)^*(4/3)^*TT, in which A=width of the lesion, B=height of the lesion, C=depth of the lesion.

It should be specified that width, height and depth indicate the lengths of the lesion along three mutually perpendicular axes.

In particular, the width is the dimension of the lesion on an axis generated by the intersection of the coronal plane with the axial plane.

Height is identified on an axis generated by the intersection of the axial plane with the sagittal plane.

Depth is identified on an axis generated by the intersection of the coronal plane with the sagittal plane. Each lesion model comprises a string of characters 61 indicating the lesion to which the model corresponds.

This string of characters 61 composes a description of the main characteristics of the lesion to which the model refers.

For example, each lesion model comprises a plurality of strings of characters 61 composing, each in a different language, a same description of the main characteristics of the anatomical element to which they refer.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S5 of allowing the choice of a model of an anatomical part from the archive of models of anatomical parts.

For example, this step S5 comprises the step of generating a list of the models of anatomical parts present in the archive of models of anatomical parts, preferably containing a title for each model, and the step of allowing the selection of a model of an anatomical part from said list.

I.e., the computer code 1 allows the user the selection of a model of an anatomical part (s)he deems visually similar to the anatomical part visible in the medical examination.

Moreover, the step S5 comprises 1 selecting also the models of the anatomical parts and/or the models of anatomical elements previously associated with the selected model of the anatomical part.

The archive of models of anatomical elements comprises a plurality of connections for the (default) connection of at least one model of anatomical element to at least one model of anatomical part, so that the step S5 comprises the selection of at least one model of anatomical element connected (by default) to said model of anatomical part.

In addition, the computer code 1 carries out the step S6 of allowing the selection and/or deselection of models of anatomical elements to be associated with the selected model of the anatomical part.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S7 of displaying a two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part, for example corresponding to a section of the anatomical part.

If the model of the anatomical part comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images each representing a section of the anatomical part, the step S7 comprises the step of allowing the selection of a two-dimensional image of the plurality of two-dimensional images of the model of the anatomical part and displaying at least said two-dimensional image.

For example, the step S7 comprises displaying at least the two-dimensional image 21 representing a coronal section of the model 20 of the anatomical part pancreas, and the two-dimensional image 22 representing a section of the model 20 of the anatomical part pancreas.

The step S7 of displaying a two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part comprises the step of displaying also a two-dimensional image, defined by the same plane where lies the displayed two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part, of at least one model of an anatomical element, so as to form, with the displayed image of the model of the anatomical part, a first comprehensive two-dimensional image 70.

For example, the step S7 comprises the step of displaying a two-dimensional image of at least one model of an element selected in the step S6.

The step S7 comprises the step of displaying a two-dimensional image of at least one model of an element previously associated with the model of the anatomical part in the step S3.

The step S7 comprises the step of displaying a two-dimensional image of at least one model of an element connected with the model of the chosen anatomical part.

For example, the step S7 comprises superposing and/or setting side by side to the displayed two-dimensional image of the anatomic part, the two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical element lying on the same plane on which lies the displayed two-dimensional image of the anatomical part, based on the position of the two-dimensional images in the plane defining the section.

If the model of the anatomical element comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images each representing a section of the anatomical element, the step S7 comprises the step of selecting a two-dimensional image of the plurality of two- dimensional images of the model of the anatomical element and displaying at least said two-dimensional image.

In the illustrated embodiment, the step S7 comprises selecting and displaying the two-dimensional image of each model of anatomical element selected and/or associated and/or connected with the model of the anatomical part, representing the section of the model of anatomical element defined by the same plane on which lies the displayed two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S8 of allowing the modification of at least one model of anatomical element.

For example, said step S8 comprises allowing the choice between models of a same anatomical element having different conformations.

In the preferred embodiment said step S8 comprises allowing the choice from a plurality of models 34 of anatomical elements of the duodenum representing different biliary routes and a plurality of models 33 of anatomical elements representing different ducts of Wirsung.

The step S8 of allowing the modification of at least one model of anatomical element comprises the step of allowing the change of the position of one or more models of anatomical elements in space.

The step of allowing the change of the position in space of one or more models of anatomical elements comprises the step of acquiring a value of a displacement at least along an axis lying on an axial and/or coronal plane and subsequently changing the position of the model of the anatomical elements according to said displacement value.

Preferably, the value of the displacement is entered by the user by means of the input unit 13 on the basis of the analysis of the medical examination. If the model of the anatomical element comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images, each representing a section of the anatomical element, the step of allowing the change of the position of the model of the anatomical element in space comprises changing, in the two-dimensional space on which each two- dimensional image of the model of the anatomical element lies, the position of all the two-dimensional images of the model of the anatomical element with respect to the corresponding images of the model of the anatomical part lying on the same plane.

In this embodiment, the two-dimensional images representing coronal sections can be displaced solely on the plane defining the coronal section and the two- dimensional images representing axial sections can be displaced solely along the plane defining the respective axial section.

The step S8 of allowing the modification of at least one model of anatomical element comprises allowing the change of the dimensions of one or more models of anatomical elements.

The step of allowing changing the dimensions of one or more models of anatomical elements comprises the step of acquiring the value of a change in dimension and subsequently changing the dimension of the model of the anatomical element on the basis of said value of change in dimension.

Preferably, the value of change in dimension is entered by the user by means of the input unit 13 on the basis of the analysis of the medical examination. If the model of the anatomical element comprises a plurality of two-dimensional images, each representing a section of the anatomical element, the step of allowing the change of the dimensions of the model of the anatomical element in space comprises changing, in the two-dimensional space on which each two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical element lies, the dimension of all the two-dimensional images of the model of the anatomical element with respect to a corresponding image of the model of the anatomical part lying on the same plane.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S9 of displaying a grid 80 superposed to the displayed two-dimensional image 21 ,22 of the model of the anatomical part, in which the grid represents the planes on which other two-dimensional images of the model of the anatomical part lie, which intersect the plane on which the displayed two-dimensional image lies.

The grid also represents sectors arbitrarily chosen to divide the model of the anatomical part.

Each element, for example demarcation line, of the grid is identified by an al- phanumerical code.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S10 of displaying the plurality of graphic elements of the lesion models present in the archive of the lesion models.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S1 1 of allowing the selection of a graphic element corresponding to a lesion model.

I.e. the computer code 1 allows the user to select the lesion model (s)he deems similar to what is visible in the medical examination.

The step S1 1 comprises allowing the selection of a plurality of graphic elements, each corresponding to a lesion model.

For example, the computer code 1 allows selecting different graphic elements of different lesion models and selecting the same graphic element of a lesion model several times.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S12 of allowing the positioning of the graphic element of the model of the lesion on the displayed two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part, so as to generate a comprehensive two-dimensional image.

Preferably, the step S12 comprises allowing the positioning of the graphic element on the first comprehensive two-dimensional image displayed, so as to generate a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 .

In practice, the computer code 1 carries out the step of generating a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 carrying out the steps of: allowing the selection of a two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part, positioning in the two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part the two-dimensional images, lying on the same plane as the selected two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part, of the models of anatomical elements chosen and/or associated with the model of the anatomical part, and allowing the positioning of the graphic element of the model of the lesion in the displayed two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part.

Preferably, the computer code 1 carries out the step of generating a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 for each two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part on which a graphic element of the lesion model is present. For example, the computer code carries out the step of generating at least a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 representing a coronal section and at least a second comprehensive two-dimensional image representing an axial section.

The step S12 of allowing the positioning of the graphic element of the selected model of the lesion on the displayed two-dimensional image comprises the step of allowing the dragging of the graphic element into a displayed area of the two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part.

In particular, this step S12 comprises positioning the centre of the graphic element in a two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part corresponding to the coronal section, on the basis of the axial section of the anatomical part in which the lesion has the maximum size, i.e. in which the lesion has maximum cross section, and on the basis of the distance of the lesion from the anatomical elements.

Subsequently, said step S12 comprises positioning the centre of the graphic element in at least one two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part corresponding to an axial section of the model of the anatomical part proximal to the axial section of the anatomical part in which the lesion has maximum size, on the basis of the position of the lesion in the medical examination. The centre of the three-dimensional surface of the model of the lesion corresponds to the centre of the graphic element positioned in the model of the anatomical part.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S13 of acquiring the value of at least one parameter, indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion, for example said step comprises acquiring the value of the height, the value of the width and the value of the depth of the lesion.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S14 of calculating the value of the volume V of the lesion on the basis of the value of the at least one parameter indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion, for example on the basis of the value of the height, of the value of the width and of the value of the depth of the lesion.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S15 of varying, on the basis of the acquired parameter, for example of the height, of the width and of the depth of the lesion, at least one dimension of the model of the lesion, for example the volume V defined by the three-dimensional surface of the model.

In practice, said step S15 comprises changing the dimensions, or the scale, of the three-dimensional surface of the model on the basis of the calculated value of the volume V of the lesion.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S16 of acquiring the value of an angle included between a straight line on which lies the maximum rectilinear segment that can be inscribed in the axial section of the lesion, in which said lesion has maximum size, and the axis generated by the intersection of the coronal plane with the axial plane.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S17 of modifying, on the basis of the value of the acquired angle, the model of the lesion, for example the graphic element of the model of the lesion, so as to make intelligible said value of the acquired angle.

Preferably, the step S17 of modifying the graphic element of the model of the lesion on the basis of the value of the acquired angle comprises modifying the two-dimensional icon 60 of the lesion model positioned in the coronal geometric sector in such a way that when the acquired angle is equal to 0° the two- dimensional icon 60 is not modified, when the acquired angle is between 1 ° and 89° the two-dimensional icon is a projection, on the plane of lay of the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 , of the two-dimensional icon itself, rotated in three-dimensional space relative to an axis, lying on the plane of lay of the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 , of the value of the acquired angle, and when the acquired angle is 90°, the two-dimensional icon is a line.

I.e., the step S17 generates an optical effect so that the two-dimensional icon appears rotated in space by an angle equal to the acquired angle.

In addition, the step S17 of modifying, on the basis of the value of the acquired angle, the model of the lesion comprises rotating the three-dimensional surface of the model of the lesion relative to an axis, generated by the intersection of the coronal plane with the axial plane and passing through the centre of the three-dimensional surface, by an angle equal to the value of the acquired angle.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S18 of calculating the distance D, for example the minimum distance, between the model of the lesion and at least one model of an anatomical element and/or a characteristic point of the model of the anatomical part.

For example, the computer code 1 carries out the step of determining at least one between the distance D of the model of the lesion from the model 31 of the anatomical element of the celiac tripod, the distance of the model of the lesion from the model 32 of the anatomical element of the gall bladder, the distance of the model of the lesion from the model 33 of the anatomical element of the duct of Wirsung, the distance of the model of the lesion from the model 34 of the anatomical element of the duodenum, the distance of the model of the lesion from the model 35 of the anatomical element of the inferior vena cava, the distance of the model of the lesion from the model 36 of the anatomical element of the vena porta, the distance of the model of the lesion from the model 37 of the anatomical element of the superior mesenteric artery. In the illustrated embodiment, the step S18 of calculating the distance D, for example the minimum distance D, between the model of the lesion and at least one model of an anatomical element, comprises calculating the minimum distance D between a two-dimensional image of a model of an anatomical element, i.e. between the perimeter of the two-dimensional image, and the perimeter generated by the intersection of the three-dimensional surface of the model of the lesion and the plane on which the two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical element lies.

Preferably, the step S18 of calculating the distance, for example the minimum distance, between the model of the lesion and at least one model of an anatomical element comprises calculating the distance between all the points of the perimeter of each two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical element and all the points of a corresponding perimeter generated by the intersection of the three-dimensional surface of the model with the plane on which the respective two-dimensional image of the anatomical element lies, and subsequently identifying the minimum distance D among all calculated distances.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S19 of determining the intersection of the model of the lesion, for example of the three-dimensional surface of the model of the lesion, with the planes, for example axial planes, and the step of positioning a graphic element of the lesion model, i.e. a two-dimensional icon 60, on each two-dimensional image of the model of the anatomical part, at each determined intersection.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S20 of calculating the value of a characteristic parameter of the surface of adhesion SA of the lesion to the vena porta, when the value of the minimum distance D determined between the model of the lesion and the model of the anatomical element vena porta is equal to or lower than zero.

The characteristic parameter of the adhesion surface SA to the vena porta is a segment lying on an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vena porta in the area of contact with the lesion, whose ends are determined by the opposite end portions of the lesion, in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the vena porta in the area of adhesion of the lesion, in contact with the vena porta. For example, said step S20 comprises determining two points of intersection between the perimeter of the two-dimensional image of the model 36 of the anatomical element vena porta, preferably representing a coronal section 36c of the vena porta, and the perimeter generated by the intersection of the model of the lesion, or by the intersection of the three-dimensional surface of the model of the lesion, with the plane on which said two-dimensional image of the model 36 of the anatomical element vena porta lies, and calculating the distance between the two determined points of intersection.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S21 of calculating the value of an angle of adhesion AA of the lesion model to a model of anatomical element, for example to the model 36 of the anatomical element to the vena porta. "Angle of adhesion" means AA the angle defined by the intersection of two straight lines tangential to the lesion and passing through the centre of the anatomical element with respect to which said angle is to be calculated. The step S21 of calculating the value of the angle of adhesion of the lesion model to a model of anatomical element comprises the steps of: allowing the selection of a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 , allowing the positioning of a first point to the centre of the two-dimensional image, present in the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 , of the model of the anatomical element with respect to which the angle of adhesion AA is to be calculated, allowing the positioning of a second characteristic point on a side of the graphic element of the model of the lesion present in the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 , allowing the positioning of a third point on a side of the graphic element of the model of the lesion present in the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 opposite with respect to the side of the second point, determining a first segment passing through the first point and the second point, determining a second segment passing through the first point and the third point, calculating the angle between the first segment and the second segment having concavity oriented towards the lesion model.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S22 of generating a third comprehensive two-dimensional image 72 in which the position in space of peripheral appendages of the lesion are highlighted.

The step S22 comprises the step of allowing the selection of a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 , the step of allowing the selection of one or more points of the lesion model, for example of the perimeter of the two- dimensional icon 60, each representing the position in space of peripheral appendages of the lesion, and the step of making visually distinguishable the selected points with respect to the rest of the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 .

Preferably, the step of making visually distinguishable the selected points with respect to the rest of the second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 comprises superposing to the graphic element of the lesion, at each selected point, a circle C, for example having radius between 0.05 and 02. times the dimensions of the graphic element.

For example, the points are selected by the user of the software by means of the input unit 13, based on the position of the peripheral appendages visible in the examination by means of images.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S23 of allowing the choice of a language between a plurality of languages in which the descriptions of the models corresponding to the strings of characters are written.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S24 of generating a report R containing at least one comprehensive two-dimensional image, for example containing at least a second comprehensive two-dimensional image 71 .

Preferably, the step S24 comprises entering in the report R all the second comprehensive two-dimensional images 71 , i.e. all the second comprehensive two-dimensional images 71 representing coronal and/or axial sections.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S25 of entering in the report R the distance D, for example the minimum distance, between the model of the lesion and at least one model of an anatomical element.

For example, the step S25 of entering in the report R the distance D of the model of the lesion from every model of an anatomical element.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S26 of entering in the report R the acquired value of the height of the lesion, the acquired value of the width of the lesion, the acquired value of the depth of the lesion.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S27 of entering in the report R the calculated value of the volume V of the model of the lesion.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S28 of entering in the report R the calculated value of the contact surface SA.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S29 of entering in the report R the calculated value of the angle of adhesion AA.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S30 of entering in the report R, for example in the selected language, the string of characters 23 of the model of the selected anatomical part.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S31 of entering in the report R, for example in the selected language, the string of characters 38 of each selected model of anatomical element.

Preferably, the step S31 comprises entering in the report R, for example in the selected language, the string of characters 38 of each anatomical element associated with the model of the anatomical part.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S32 of entering in the report R, for example in the selected language, the string of characters 61 of the selected model of the lesion.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S33 of entering in the report R for each modification made to a model of anatomical element, for example in the selected language, a string of characters, each representing the modification made.

The computer code 1 carries out the step S34 of entering in the report R the third comprehensive two-dimensional image 72.

The computer code 1 carries out the step of entering in the report R a value of roundness of the lesion, i.e. a value indicating how much the lesion is elongated rather than spherical.

The computer code 1 carries out the step of changing the strings of characters entered in the report R based on a change of the selected language of the report R.

The invention thus conceived is susceptible to many modifications and variants, all falling within the same inventive concept.

Furthermore, all details may be replaced by technically equivalent elements. In practice, the materials used, as well as their shapes and dimensions, can be of any type according to the technical requirements without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.

Claims

1. Software for the characterisation of an anatomical part, comprising a computer code (1 ) which, when executed by an electronic processor (10), carries out the following steps:

- the step (S1 ) of making available a model (20) of the anatomical part,

- the step (S7) of displaying a two-dimensional image (21 ) of said model (20) of the anatomical part,

- the step (S4) of making available an archive provided with a plurality of lesion models (40, 41 , 42...59),

- the step (S10) of displaying a graphic element (60) for each lesion model (40, 41 , 42...59) in the archive,

- the step (S1 1 ) of allowing the selection of a graphic element (60) corresponding to a lesion model (52),

- the step (S12) of allowing the positioning of the graphic element (60) selected on the displayed two-dimensional image (21 ), so as to generate a comprehensive two-dimensional image (71 ),

- the step (S13) of acquiring the value of at least one parameter indicating at least the dimensions of the lesion, and

- the step (S15) of changing, on the basis of the value of the acquired parameter, at least one dimension of the lesion model (52).

2. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the step (S12) of allowing the positioning of the graphic element (60) on the two-dimensional image (21 ) comprises the step of dragging the selected graphic element (60) in an area of the displayed two-dimensional image (21 ) of the model (20) of the anatomical part.

3. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S19) of changing, on the basis of the acquired parameter, at least one dimension of the graphic element (60) of the selected lesion model (52) in the comprehensive two-dimensional image (71 ).

4. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S2) of making available an archive of models (30, 31 ...37) of ana- tomical elements, and of displaying a two-dimensional image of each anatomical element on the displayed two-dimensional image (21 ) of the anatomical part.

5. Software according to claim 4, wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S8) of allowing the modification of said models (30, 31 ...37) of anatomical elements.

6. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the step (S7) comprises displaying a main two-dimensional image (21 ) representing a coronal section of the anatomical part and the step of displaying a plurality of secondary two-dimensional images each (22) of which represents a respective axial section of the anatomical part.

7. Software according to claim 4, wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S18) of determining the distance (D) between a perimeter representing a section of the lesion model (52) and a perimeter of a two-dimensional image, in the same section of the perimeter of the lesion model (52), of an anatomical element (30, 31 ...37).

8. Software according to claim 7, wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step of changing the extension of the perimeter of the model (52) of the lesion on the basis of the value of the acquired parameter.

9. Software according to claim 6, wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S19) of generating on at least one of said secondary two-dimensional images (22), a graphic element (60) representing the lesion, on the basis of the positioning of the graphic element (60) in the two-dimensional image (21 ) and of the value of the acquired parameter.

10. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S24) of generating a report (R) containing the comprehensive two- dimensional image (71 ).

11. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the model (20) of the anatomical part comprises a string of characters (23) indicating the anatomical part to which the model (20) of the anatomical part refers and wherein the model (52) of the lesion comprises a string of characters (61 ) indicating the lesion to which the lesion model (52) refers, and wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S30, S31 ) of entering said strings of characters (23,61 ) in the report (R).

12. Software according to claim 1 , wherein the computer code (1 ) carries out the step (S22) of allowing the selection of one or more points of the graphic element (60) of the lesion model (52) according to the position of peripheral appendages of the lesion in space, and carries out the step (S34) of inserting into the report (R) a comprehensive two-dimensional image (72) comprising the graphic element (60) of the lesion model (52) whose points were selected and made visually distinguishable and at least the displayed two-dimensional image (21 ) of the model (20) of the anatomical part.