JP2004344344A - Ultrasonic diagnostic instrument - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic diagnostic instrument for automatically selecting a display image by kinds of ultrasonic probes, and also to freely select a display image other than the automatically selected image. <P>SOLUTION: The instrument transmits/receives ultrasonic waves with the ultrasonic probe, and displays the ultrasonic image of a subject, on the basis of acquired echo data. The instrument includes: an identifying means for identifying the kind of the connected ultrasonic probe; and an input/output setting means for arithmetically processing echo data and organizing display image data in order to display the optimum display image in accordance with the kind of the ultrasonic probe which is identified by the identifying means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that displays an ultrasonic image of a living body based on echo data obtained by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a living body, and in particular, an ultrasonic endoscope that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a living body. The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that automatically recognizes the type of an ultrasonic probe and automatically sets a display format of an ultrasonic image according to the type.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Ultrasound diagnostic devices include ultrasonic endoscopes (or ultrasonic scopes) or ultrasonic probes (or ultrasonic probes) with built-in ultrasonic transducers (hereinafter simply referred to as ultrasonic probes). The ultrasonic wave is transmitted to the living body, and the reflected wave from the living body is received by the ultrasonic vibrator and converted into an echo signal, and the echo signal is subjected to signal processing and image processing, thereby forming a biological tomographic image. It is generated and displayed.
[0003]
As the ultrasonic probe, a plurality of types of ultrasonic probes having different ultrasonic frequencies according to an observation site in a living body and a position and a depth of the observation site are used.
[0004]
Based on an echo signal generated from a reflected wave received by the ultrasonic probe, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that generates an ultrasonic tomographic image, the echo signal according to the type of the connected ultrasonic probe Since the signal processing and the conditions of the displayed tomographic image are different, the connected ultrasonic probe is automatically recognized, and the generation and supply of the ultrasonic drive signal according to the connected ultrasonic probe are performed. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for generating an ultrasonic tomographic image generated from an echo signal has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).
[0005]
In recent years, in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, ultrasonic waves from an ultrasonic probe have been three-dimensionally scanned into a living body, and echoes in a three-dimensional region have been reflected from reflected waves of the ultrasonically scanned three-dimensionally. There have been proposed various ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses that three-dimensionally display an ultrasonic tomographic image in a living body on a monitor by using a signal (for example, see Patent Documents 2 and 3).
[0006]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-2000-139918.
[0007]
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-7-47066
[0008]
[Patent Document 3]
Japanese Patent No. 3283456
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
As described above, there are a plurality of types of ultrasonic probes used in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a living body observation site to be observed and diagnosed, and an operation for generating an ultrasonic tomographic image based on an echo signal. Display image formats of ultrasonic tomographic images have also been diversified due to the improvement in the processing power of the processing means (hereinafter simply referred to as CPU).
[0010]
Conventionally, in response to the diversification of the display image format of the ultrasonic tomographic image, a key corresponding to each of a plurality of display image formats is provided on a console constituting the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and the display image format is set by the keys. Is provided, or a display image format sequential selection key for sequentially switching and selecting a plurality of display image formats each time a single key is operated.
[0011]
The display image format direct selection key can directly select a desired display image format in the shortest possible time.However, since it is necessary to provide the number of direct selection keys in the number of display image formats, the occupied area in the console increases and the Upsizing is inevitable.
[0012]
In addition, the display image format sequential selection key needs to be operated sequentially until the desired display image format is selected, and it takes time to select the desired display image format, and the display image format is sequentially changed. In the case of observing the observation site while switching, the operation of the selection keys becomes complicated one after another, and the operability has been extremely poor.
[0013]
On the other hand, in a conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic probe is provided with information unique to the probe, specifically, information such as an ultrasonic frequency, a scanning format (for 3D scanning, etc.), and a rotation speed. When the ultrasonic probe is connected, the ultrasonic diagnostic device recognizes the probe information, drives the ultrasonic probe at the ultrasonic frequency corresponding to the ultrasonic probe, and generates an echo signal from the reflected wave. Settings such as reception control.
[0014]
Further, regarding connection of the ultrasonic probe to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, in order to prevent latch-up of an electric circuit, the ultrasonic probe may be connected with the power supply of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus turned off, or a personal computer base may be used. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the above, since an activation time is long, an active switch for turning on / off the power supply to the ultrasonic probe is provided on a front panel of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and the active switch is turned off. In order to connect an ultrasonic probe from a plurality of ultrasonic probes and connect a plurality of ultrasonic probes, a plurality of ultrasonic probe connecting portions and an active switch are provided.
[0015]
However, when the ultrasonic probe is connected to one of the plurality of connecting portions, after the ultrasonic probe is connected, the connected ultrasonic probe is selected with a key on the console. Had to be inconvenient.
[0016]
Also, if the user forgot to press the active switch despite specifying the connection part to which the ultrasonic probe was connected, the ultrasonic probe was displayed as not connected, which was inconvenient. .
[0017]
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and for a device to which a plurality of ultrasonic probes can be simultaneously connected, automatically selecting the connected ultrasonic probe, It is an object of the present invention to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of reducing the burden of selection, and also to automatically set a display image format according to a connected ultrasonic probe, thereby enabling an operator The present invention provides an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of reducing the load of selection switching of display image formats by the operator and also allowing the operator to select a display image format other than the automatically selected display format, and making the console smaller. It is intended to be.
[0018]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave to and from an object from an ultrasonic probe, and displays an ultrasonic image of the object using the obtained echo data. Identification means for identifying the type of the ultrasonic probe identified, and input / output setting means for setting the input / output means according to the type of the ultrasonic probe identified by the identification means It is characterized by.
[0019]
In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, a plurality of ultrasonic probes can be connected, and the identification unit identifies the type of the plurality of ultrasonic probes, and further includes the plurality of ultrasonic probes. A priority is set for the type of the stylus, and the input / output setting means sets the input / output means based on the set priority.
[0020]
The input / output setting means of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that an image display format for displaying an ultrasonic image is set according to the type of the ultrasonic probe.
[0021]
Further, the input / output setting unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention is configured to switch a display format switching unit that switches an image display format when displaying an ultrasound image, according to the type of the ultrasound probe. It is characterized in that assignment is set.
[0022]
According to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, optimal echo signal processing and input / output means such as a display image format are automatically initially set according to the connected ultrasonic probe, and this initial selection is set. Other display image formats can be selected by the operator with a simple operation, and the console can be downsized.
[0023]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, a first embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0024]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 explains the processing operation by the CPU used in the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a state in which a radial image is displayed on a monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a first example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which a radial image and a linear image are simultaneously displayed on the monitor of the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a surface construction image of a three-dimensional image on the monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view for explaining a state in which four screens including a three-dimensional image are simultaneously displayed. FIG. 6 shows four screens including a perspective construction image of a three-dimensional image on the monitor of the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. Explanatory drawing explaining the state displayed simultaneously FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the surface construction image of the three-dimensional image displayed on the monitor and the ultrasonic tomographic image of the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a configuration of a display switching key of an operation terminal used in the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating recognition of an acoustic probe and a selection setting operation of a display image format and the like. FIG. 10 illustrates an ultrasonic radial image displayed on a monitor of the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. It is explanatory drawing explaining a comment and distance measurement input.
[0025]
As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes an ultrasonic probe 2 having a built-in ultrasonic transducer, and rotation control and driving of the ultrasonic probe 2. And a drive unit 3 for performing the above.
[0026]
The ultrasonic transducer incorporated in the ultrasonic probe 2 generates and transmits an ultrasonic wave under the control of a driving unit 3 described later, and reflects the transmitted ultrasonic wave from the living body. It has a function of receiving ultrasonic waves, converting them into ultrasonic echo signals, and outputting the signals. The driving unit 3 controls the driving of the ultrasonic vibrator based on a driving control signal of the ultrasonic vibrator from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 described later, and is built in the ultrasonic probe 2 from the driving unit 3. Has the function of driving the ultrasonic transducer to be rotated via a flexible shaft.
[0027]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 generates and transmits an ultrasonic drive control signal for driving and controlling an ultrasonic transducer to the drive unit 3 of the ultrasonic probe 2 and reflects the ultrasonic drive control signal in the living body. A transmitting / receiving unit 4 for receiving and amplifying the ultrasonic echo signal converted by the ultrasonic transducer, receiving the reflected ultrasonic wave, and performing logarithmic compression and detection of the ultrasonic echo signal; An analog / digital converter (hereinafter, referred to as an A / D converter) 5 for converting the compressed and detected analog ultrasonic echo signal into digital ultrasonic echo data (hereinafter, simply referred to as digital echo data); A first frame memory 6 for storing the digital echo data converted and generated by the A / D converter 5 for each frame forming an ultrasonic image, the driving unit 3, the transmitting / receiving unit 4, an A / D converter , A first frame memory 6, and a second frame memory 7 and a digital / analog converter (hereinafter, referred to as a D / A converter) 8 which will be described later. In addition to the control, the digital echo data stored in the first frame memory 6 is read, and coordinate conversion processing and image processing for generating various ultrasonic tomographic images and three-dimensional images based on the digital echo data are performed. And a second unit for storing the ultrasonic tomographic image and the three-dimensional image data generated by the CPU 11 in units of one frame for forming the image. And the ultrasonic tomographic image and the three-dimensional image data stored in the second frame memory 7 are converted into analog signals. A D / A converter 8 for converting the image into an ultrasonic tomographic image and a three-dimensional image based on an analog ultrasonic tomographic image signal and a three-dimensional image signal converted and generated by the D / A converter 8. It consists of a monitor 9.
[0028]
The CPU 11 is connected to the system controller 10, the first frame memory 6, and the second frame memory 7 via a data transfer bus 17.
[0029]
Further, the CPU 11 stores, via the data transfer bus 17, a main storage device 12 in which an arithmetic processing program for coordinate conversion processing and image processing for generating an ultrasonic tomographic image and a three-dimensional image by the CPU 11 is recorded. An image data storage device 13 for storing digital echo data read from the first frame memory 6, and an arithmetic processing for storing digital echo data stored in the image data storage device 13 in the main storage device 12. An external storage device 14 including a hard disk or the like for storing ultrasonic tomographic image data and three-dimensional image data generated by being arithmetically processed by the CPU 11 based on a program, and a control program and backup data; Operation of the keyboard, etc., by which the operator inputs and operates the arithmetic processing and display image format, etc. Terminal 15, and a pointing device 16 such as a trackball is connected.
[0030]
For example, when performing ultrasonic diagnostics in a body cavity using the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 having such a configuration, the ultrasonic probe 2 is inserted into the body cavity, and an acoustic medium (degassed water or jelly) is injected. Contact with the living body through
[0031]
The transmission / reception unit 4 of the ultrasonic observation apparatus 1 generates an ultrasonic vibration pulse for the ultrasonic transducer of the ultrasonic probe 2 via the driving unit 3 based on a control signal from the system controller 10. Transmit and cause ultrasonic oscillation.
[0032]
On the other hand, the drive unit 3 drives the flexible shaft in the ultrasonic probe 2 to rotate based on a drive control signal from the system controller 10, and the ultrasonic wave disposed at the tip of the flexible shaft The vibrator is driven to rotate. In other words, the ultrasonic vibrator is rotated together with the rotation drive of the flexible shaft, the ultrasonic wave is radially transmitted in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis direction, and receives the reflected ultrasonic wave reflected in the body cavity. I have. That is, the ultrasonic waves are scanned radially.
[0033]
Ultrasonic waves are radially scanned and transmitted from the ultrasonic transducer of the ultrasonic probe 2, and the reflected ultrasonic waves are received and converted by the ultrasonic transducer. It is output to the transmission / reception unit 4 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1.
[0034]
The transmission / reception unit 4 amplifies the ultrasonic echo signal from the ultrasonic probe 1 to a signal of a predetermined magnitude, and adjusts the frequency of the ultrasonic echo signal suitable for the type of the ultrasonic probe 2. The ultrasonic echo signal is logarithmically compressed and detected through a corresponding bandpass filter to generate an analog ultrasonic image signal, and the analog ultrasonic image signal is converted into digital echo data by the A / D converter 5. The data is stored in the first frame memory 6 on a frame basis.
[0035]
Based on the digital echo data stored in the first frame 6, the CPU 11 performs an arithmetic processing of the ultrasonic tomographic image data and the three-dimensional image data based on an arithmetic processing program stored in the main storage device 12. The operation of will be described with reference to FIG.
[0036]
In step S1, the CPU 11 reads the digital echo data stored in the first frame memory 6 for each frame forming an ultrasonic image and temporarily stores the digital echo data in the image data storage device 13. The digital echo data of each frame temporarily stored in the image data storage device 13 is subjected to image quality adjustment such as gain and contrast by the CPU 11 in step S2 based on the image quality adjustment processing program stored in the main storage device 12. Processing is performed.
[0037]
Next, the CPU 11 selects and sets a display image format in step S3. In the selection setting of the display image format in step S3, a plurality of display image formats are set in advance, and the CPU 11 selects from the plurality of display image formats according to the type of the ultrasonic probe 2. Alternatively, the operator can select and set by using the operation terminal 15 and the pointing device 16.
[0038]
When the display image format is selected and set in step S3, the CPU 11 determines in step S4 a desired image processing program for generating a plurality of display image format image data stored in the main storage device 12. An image construction operation is performed based on an operation processing program for generating image data in a display image format. The image construction calculation processing in step S4 includes construction of a radial image from orthogonal coordinate transformation for matching the scanning direction of the image from digital echo data, direct surface extraction processing, shading processing, surface synthesis processing, projection conversion processing, and the like, and radial image processing. Alternatively, a plurality of linear images are constructed from digital echo data, and a three-dimensional surface image or perspective image is constructed.
[0039]
The display image data obtained by the arithmetic processing in step S4 is stored in the external storage device 14 in step S5 and temporarily stored in the second frame memory 7, and stored in the second frame memory 7. The display image data is converted into an analog display image signal by the D / A converter 8 and an ultrasonic image is displayed on the monitor 9.
[0040]
The display image data stored in the external storage device 14 can be read out at the next inspection or after the inspection and displayed on the monitor 9 again.
[0041]
An image display format displayed on the monitor 9 based on the display image data calculated in step S4 according to the display image format selected and set in step S3 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0042]
FIG. 3 shows a state in which a normal radial image 9a is displayed on the screen of the monitor 9, and the radial image 9a is an ultrasonic wave incorporated in the ultrasonic probe 2 inserted into the body cavity. A tomographic image of a living body in a body cavity in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the ultrasonic probe 2 based on an ultrasonic echo signal which is a reflected wave of ultrasonic vibration transmitted radially from the rotation center of the transducer. A certain radial tomographic image 21, an ultrasonic diagnostic information display 22a such as patient information, observation date and time, and an ultrasonic diagnostic observation condition of a subject of the radial image 21; and a gray scale 22b showing a gray scale of the radial image 21. Consists of
[0043]
FIG. 4 shows a radial image 21a, a linear image 23, and a DPR (Dual Plane Reconstruction) image 9b in which patient information and observation date and time are simultaneously displayed on the screen of the monitor 9.
[0044]
FIG. 5 shows a first MPR displaying one radial image 21b, two linear images 23a and 24a having different cross sections, a surface construction image 25a as a three-dimensional image, and patient information and observation date and time simultaneously. (Multi Plane Reconstruction) image 9c is shown.
[0045]
FIG. 6 shows a second image in which one radial image 21b, two linear images 23a and 24a having different cross sections, a perspective construction image 25b as a three-dimensional image, patient information, and observation date and time are simultaneously displayed. 9D shows an MPR (Multi Plane Reconstruction) image 9d of FIG.
[0046]
That is, FIG. 3 shows a display screen format in which the normal ultrasonic probe 2 is inserted into a body cavity and only the tomographic radial image 21 in which the living body affected part is ultrasonically tomographically displayed is displayed.
[0047]
On the other hand, FIG. 4 displays on the monitor 9 a tomographic radial image 21a obtained by reducing the radial image 21 shown in FIG. 3 by approximately half, and inserts the ultrasonic probe 2 based on the tomographic radial image 21a. This is a display screen format in which a tomographic linear image 23, which is a cross-sectional image of a living body in a body cavity along the direction, is displayed on the monitor 9 in parallel.
[0048]
Next, the first and second MPR images 9c and 9d shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0049]
Of the four images displayed as MPR images, a tomographic radial image 21b of a reference line C obtained by reducing the tomographic radial image 21a of the DPR image 9b to approximately half is displayed on the upper left of the screen of the monitor 9, and the tomographic radial is displayed. A cross-sectional linear image 23a of the reference line A in the figure of the image 21b is displayed at the upper right of the screen of the monitor 9, and a cross-sectional linear image 24a of the reference line B of the radial image 21b in the figure is shown at the lower left of the screen of the monitor 9. ing.
[0050]
A reference line C shown in the drawing of the cross-sectional linear image 23a of the reference line A and the cross-sectional linear image 24a of the reference line B indicates the positional relationship between the tomographic radial image 21b and the tomographic radial image 21b. The surface indicated by the oblique line 21c in FIG.
[0051]
Further, a surface construction image 25a, which is a three-dimensional image constructed from the tomographic images of the reference lines A to C, is displayed at the lower right of the screen of the monitor 9. In other words, the area indicated by the oblique line 21c in the figure of the tomographic radial image 21b matches the front area indicated by the oblique line 21c in the figure of the surface construction image 25a, and the area indicated by the dotted oblique line 23c in the figure of the cross-sectional linear image 23a. Corresponds to the side surface area indicated by the dotted oblique line 23c in the drawing of the surface construction image 25a, and the area indicated by the oblique line 24c having a large line interval in the drawing of the sectional linear image 24a is the line interval in the drawing of the surface construction image 25a. And the upper surface area indicated by the wide oblique line 24c.
[0052]
That is, based on the respective reference lines of the tomographic radial image 21b of the reference line C, the tomographic linear image 23a of the reference line A, and the tomographic linear image 24a of the reference line B, the respective tomographic images and three-dimensional images are subjected to arithmetic processing. By adjusting the positions of the reference lines A to C that have been generated, an ultrasonic tomographic image and a three-dimensional image of a desired lesion or the like can be drawn. The perspective construction image of the three-dimensional image of the second MPR image 9d shown in FIG.
[0053]
The surface construction image 25a, which is a three-dimensional image displayed on the first MPR image 9c shown in FIG. 5, is used when the distance between the body wall surface of the living body and the ultrasonic probe 2 can be ensured, and It is an image obtained by calculating and detecting the body part wall surface from the signal and delineating and synthesizing the surface shape of the body part wall surface. With this surface construction image 25a, an ultrasonic image and an optical image obtained by an endoscope can be compared and observed. In other words, the part reaching the deepest part of the lesion in the living tissue is confirmed in the ultrasonic image, and the position of the lesion on the wall of the living body part is compared with the endoscope optical image for observation, and the endoscopic observation is performed. The mirror can be used as an aid in performing therapeutic treatment on the lesion.
[0054]
The perspective construction image 25b, which is a three-dimensional image displayed on the second MPR image 9d shown in FIG. 6, is used when it is difficult to ensure the distance between the body wall surface and the ultrasound probe 2, Most suitable for inserting an ultrasonic probe into the pancreatic bile duct or the like to render images. When the distance between the wall of the living body part and the ultrasound probe 2 cannot be ensured, it is easy to grasp the positional relationship of the lesion part anatomically rather than the consistency with the endoscopic image, The oblique construction image 25b in which the spread of the part can be easily confirmed is drawn and displayed.
[0055]
Thereby, the operator can select and set one of the surface construction image 25a and the perspective construction image 25b to display the three-dimensional image from the lesion content in the body cavity and the positional relationship between the lesion and the ultrasound probe 2, Optimal therapeutic treatment of the lesion can be performed.
[0056]
In this way, the optimal ultrasonic probe is used from multiple types of ultrasonic probes according to the observation target site in the body cavity and the contents of the lesion to be observed. Depending on the part, the tomographic radial image 9a, the DPR image (tomographic radial image + tomographic image) 9b, the first MPR image (tomographic image + surface construction image) 9c, or the second MPR image (tomographic image + perspective) A display format such as (constructed image) 9d is selected and set. Alternatively, either the surface construction image 25a or the perspective construction image 25b is displayed as one screen display, and also in the two-screen display DPR image 9b, the radial image 21a and the surface construction image 25a, and the radial image 21a and the perspective construction image 25d. And a variety of display image formats are required.
[0057]
In response to such a request, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of the present invention focuses on the fact that the display image format is limited to some extent depending on the observation target site and the ultrasonic probe to be selectively used. It is possible to automatically set the initial display image format according to the ultrasonic probe 2 connected to 1 and to change the assignment of the display screen format selection setting key provided in the operation terminal 15. The display image format that is not frequently used is switched in a menu.
[0058]
When the ultrasonic probe 2 is connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 via the driving unit 3, the ultrasonic probe identification information (not shown) provided on the ultrasonic probe 2 is transmitted to the system control 10. The ultrasonic probe identification information read out is transmitted to the CPU 11, and a processing program for performing arithmetic processing on image data by the CPU 11 and a display image format of the image data that has been arithmetically processed are read out. Are set.
[0059]
On the other hand, the operation terminal 15 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 is provided with three display image format switching keys (hereinafter simply referred to as display switching keys) α, β, and γ, as shown in FIG. . A display image format corresponding to the ultrasonic probe 2 connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 is assigned to the display switching keys α, β, and γ in advance. For example, when an ultrasonic probe for a pancreatic bile duct capable of three-dimensional scanning is connected to the ultrasonic probe 2, the initial display image format is the second MPR image based on the perspective construction image 25b. 9d (three ultrasonic tomographic images 21b, 23a, 24a and perspective construction image 25b). That is, the α key is the second MPR image 9d (three ultrasonic tomographic images 21b, 23a, 24a and a perspective construction image 25b), the β key is a DPR image (radial image 21a and a perspective construction image 25b), The γ key is assigned like the DPR image 9b (the radial image 21a and the linear image 23), and the α key is selected by default.
[0060]
When three-dimensional scanning is possible and an ultrasonic probe other than for the pancreaticobiliary is connected, the initial display image format is the first MPR image 9c (three ultrasonic waves) based on the surface construction image 25a. The tomographic images 21b, 23a, and 24a and the surface construction image 25a) are used. That is, the α key is the first MPR image 9c (three ultrasonic tomographic images 21b, 23a, 24a and the surface construction image 25a), the β key is the DPR image (the radial image 21a and the perspective construction image 25b), The γ key is assigned like the DPR image 9b (the radial image 21a and the linear image 23), and the α key is selected by default.
[0061]
Furthermore, when an ultrasonic probe that does not support three-dimensional scanning is connected (however, three-dimensional scanning can be performed manually), the initial display image format is set to the radial image 21 and the α key is set to the second MPR image 9d. (Three ultrasonic tomographic images 21b, 23a, 24a and perspective construction image 25b), DPR image 9b (radial image 21a and linear image 23) for β key, radial image 21 for γ key, γ key Is selected by default.
[0062]
As described above, the initial display image format set to the key defaulted by the type of the ultrasound probe 2 connected to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 is automatically selected and set, and the selected display image is set. The arithmetic processing according to the format and the generation of the image display data are performed, and the image in the initial display image format is displayed on the monitor 9.
[0063]
That is, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention performs predetermined arithmetic processing and display image processing on the echo signal generated by the ultrasonic probe according to the type of the ultrasonic probe, and generates the arithmetic processing. Input / output means for displaying an ultrasonic tomographic image in a predetermined display image format on a monitor based on the displayed image data.
[0064]
When displaying an image other than the initial display image format automatically selected according to the type of the ultrasonic probe 2, the operator operates another display switching key to display an image in another display image format. Display becomes possible.
[0065]
Further, when an image display in a display image format not assigned to the display switching key is desired, a list menu of all display image formats is read from the operation terminal 15, and a desired display image format is selected from the menu, and displayed. It is also possible to switch the image format.
[0066]
The setting of the initial display format and the assignment of the display switching key of the operation terminal 15 are set as described above by default, but can be changed on the environment setting screen in other various processing menus. It is.
[0067]
The type recognition of the ultrasonic probe 2 in the CPU 11 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 and the operation of generating a display image format based on the type recognition will be described with reference to FIG.
[0068]
The system controller 10 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 periodically detects identification information of the connected ultrasonic probe 2. The identification information of the ultrasonic probe 2 is composed of, for example, a 16-bit code. When all the codes detected by the system controller 10 are high, the ultrasonic probe 2 is not connected. Otherwise, it is determined that the ultrasonic probe 2 is connected with a normal code.
[0069]
The system controller 10 confirms that the ultrasonic probe 2 is connected, and when the content of the identification code is transmitted to the CPU 11, the CPU 11 proceeds to step S6. Of the ultrasonic probe 2 identified and recognized in step S7 by the operator in a display image format other than the display image format preset on the display switching key of the operation terminal 15 or the like. It is determined whether the image quality (gain, contrast, STC, etc.) setting input has been performed.
[0070]
As a result of the determination in step S7, if the operator determines that a display image format or image quality setting input other than the display image format preset in the display switching key has been performed, the CPU 11 proceeds to step S8. If the setting conditions input by the user are read and it is determined in step S7 that the setting input of the display image format and image quality other than the display image format preset in the display switching key has not been performed, the CPU 11 proceeds to step S7. In S9, an initial display image format that is preset in advance and corresponds to the type of the connected ultrasonic probe 2 is read.
[0071]
In step S10, the CPU 11 performs image quality adjustment processing of the digital echo data read from the first frame memory 6 into the image data storage device 13 based on the display image format read from either step S8 or S9. Next, in step S11, the digital echo data of which image quality has been adjusted in step S10 is subjected to display image data generation calculation processing in a display image format, and based on the display image data generated in step S11, step S12 is performed. Performs the image construction processing of the three-dimensional image, stores the processed display image format data in the external storage device 14 and the second frame memory 7, and stores the data in the second frame memory 7. The stored display image format data is converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 8 and Displays an image of the year display image format.
[0072]
As described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention automatically recognizes the ultrasonic probe, automatically switches the initial display format according to the connected ultrasonic probe, and displays the initial display image format. And input / output means for causing a monitor to output the data as display image format data. Also, the assignment of the display image format according to the ultrasonic probe can be set to a relatively small number of display switching keys, and the operation terminal can be reduced in size. Can be provided.
[0073]
It should be noted that the first and second MPR images 9c and 9d are not linked only with the positional relationship of the displayed images, but are provided with image quality adjustment functions (gain, contrast, gamma correction, When the image quality is adjusted by the STC or the like, the adjustment value is reflected on all of the displayed images (including the three-dimensional image). In addition, when an image rotation for rotating a radial image or a rotation direction is changed, the direction and direction of all images are automatically adjusted in conjunction with each other. Furthermore, the image rotation is often used when displaying an endoscopic image of the target site as a child screen, and when it is desired to observe the endoscopic image and the sound image in the same direction and angle. It is valid.
[0074]
Next, in the MPR image, the DPR image, and the normal radial image, a comment input by a surgeon about a lesion or observation / treatment treatment and measurement (distance, trace, area, volume) of the lesion will be described with reference to FIG. I do.
[0075]
FIG. 10 shows a screen for inputting a comment and performing measurement while a normal tomographic radial image 9 a is displayed on the monitor 9. First, when performing comment input, the comment input mode key of the operation terminal 15 is operated to set the CPU 11 to the comment input mode, and the monitor 9 displays the tomographic radial image 9a and the comment input area 22a. The cursor is displayed in the comment input area 22a displayed on the monitor 9, and a comment is written as needed. At this time, when the comment input mode key is operated again or the ENTER key is operated, all comment inputs are confirmed, and the operation is performed so as to exit from the comment input mode. When the ESC key is operated, the comment input mode is canceled.
[0076]
When the measurement mode key is operated during comment input in the comment input mode, the comment input is confirmed, and the mode directly shifts to the measurement mode, and the CPU 11 executes arithmetic processing from the digital echo data based on a predetermined measurement processing program. Is
[0077]
In this measurement mode, by operating the measurement mode key or the ENTER key again, all the measurements are determined and the operation is performed so as to exit the measurement mode. When the ESC key is operated, the measurement mode is canceled. Further, when the comment input mode key is operated during the measurement mode, the mode shifts to the comment input mode.
[0078]
Since this comment input and measurement mode is normally performed with a frozen image, when the freeze is released, the operation is performed so as to exit the mode, and the comment and measurement input result are automatically deleted. . However, since comment input sometimes involves inputting the scope insertion length of an ultrasonic endoscope or the like during the examination, the comment and the measurement mode may be set so as to be unfrozen separately and not to be automatically deleted. it can.
[0079]
The setting items include initial image display format, assignment of display switching key of the operation terminal, ultrasonic image quality setting (gain, contrast, STC, highlighting, etc.), comment / measurement result as well as cancellation / freeze of freeze and cancellation. Alternatively, it is necessary to adjust according to the surgeon's preference over multiple items such as the setting of the switch of the ultrasonic endoscope and the setting of the foot switch, and one ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can be used by a plurality of surgeons having different preferences. Since it is often used separately, the configuration of each user may be stored as a preset function, and the user may read and set his / her own preset settings before starting the inspection.
[0080]
Furthermore, in the description of the first embodiment, the ultrasonic probe has been described by taking mechanical scanning as an example, but the ultrasonic probe using an electronic scanning type or a two-dimensional array type vibrator has been described. Application to children is also possible.
[0081]
Next, a second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is an external perspective view showing an external configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is an ultrasonic probe used in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining a child identification recognition effect | action.
[0082]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention is basically the same as the above-described first embodiment. As shown in FIG. A plurality of connectors 31 to 33 to which a plurality of ultrasonic probes can be connected, a power switch 34 for driving the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1a, and an ultrasonic probe connected to the connectors 31 to 33. At this time, in order to prevent latch-up of the system controller 10 that recognizes identification information of a plurality of ultrasonic probes, an active switch 35 for turning on / off the power supply to the ultrasonic probes is provided. Have been. FIG. 11A shows an example in which connectors 31 to 33 to which the ultrasonic probe is connected use connectors of the same shape, and FIG. 11B shows connectors 31 ′ to 33 ′ of different shapes. The example which used is shown.
[0083]
The connectors 31-33, 31'-33 'are connected to the transmission / reception unit 4 and the system controller 10 described above, respectively, and are connected to the connectors 31-33, 31'-33', respectively. The identification information is detected, and the driving of each ultrasonic probe is controlled.
[0084]
An ultrasonic probe is connected to the connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33' in a state where the active switch 35 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1a having such a configuration is turned off, and the ultrasonic probe is connected after the connection. The recognition of the ultrasound probe after the active switch 35 is turned on and the processing of selecting a display image format according to the ultrasound probe will be described with reference to FIG.
[0085]
When an ultrasonic probe is connected to the connectors 31 to 33 and 31 ′ to 33 ′ and the active switch 35 is turned on, the CPU 11 drives and controls the system controller 10 in step S13 to Detection of the connection of the ultrasonic probe to each of the connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33', and reading of the identification code of the ultrasonic probe when the ultrasonic probe is connected, and connection / non-connection of the ultrasonic probe. Then, the ultrasonic probe connected to the connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33' is detected from the identification code.
[0086]
Next, in step S14, the CPU 11 determines whether the ultrasonic probe is connected to only one of the connectors 31 to 33 to which the ultrasonic probe detected in step S13 is connected.
[0087]
As a result of the determination in step S14, when it is determined that the ultrasonic probe is connected to only one connector, the CPU 11 determines in step S15 the identification code of the ultrasonic probe connected to the connector. , The processing after step S6 described in FIG. 9 is executed.
[0088]
When it is determined in step S14 that two or more of the plurality of connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33' are connected to the ultrasonic probe, the CPU 11 determines in step S16 that the preset connector 31 The connected ultrasonic probe is selected in accordance with the priorities of ~ 33 and 31 '~ 33', and based on the identification code of the ultrasonic probe, steps S6 and after described in FIG. Is performed.
[0089]
The priorities of the connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33' are set as, for example, A connector 31> B connector 32> C connector 33 or A connector 31 '> B connector 32'> C connector 33 '. are doing.
[0090]
Thereby, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus to which a plurality of ultrasonic probes can be connected, even if the ultrasonic probe is connected to each of the plurality of connectors, the ultrasonic diagnostic device can be connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a preset priority order of the connectors. A probe is selected, and calculation processing of an initial display image format and setting of a display image corresponding to the selected ultrasonic probe can be performed.
[0091]
Regardless of the priorities of the connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33', when using the ultrasonic probe connected to the lower-priority connector, the ultrasonic probe used from the operation terminal 15 is used. It is also possible to select and instruct the connectors 31 to 33, 31 'to 33' to which the probe is connected.
[0092]
If the freeze release key is operated while the active switch 35 is turned off, the active switch 35 is automatically turned on to recognize the identification code of the ultrasonic probe, and Is automatically selected, and a display image format corresponding to the ultrasonic probe is selected to operate to release the freeze. Accordingly, even when the operator turns off the active switch 35 to operate, the observation treatment treatment can be performed without having the operator again operate the active switch 35, so that the operability is improved.
[0093]
Further, in the second embodiment, the active switch 35 is provided to turn on / off the power supply to the ultrasonic probe, and this is used as a trigger signal for recognizing the identification code of the ultrasonic probe. However, other means such as the stage where the patient information input is confirmed may be substituted. Alternatively, in an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of avoiding latch-up, it is not necessary to provide the active switch 35 as in the second embodiment. The ultrasonic probe connected by detection may be determined.
[0094]
Although the active switch 35 is provided on the front panel of the apparatus, it may be provided on the operation terminal.
[0095]
As a result, the ultrasonic probe is recognized, and when only one ultrasonic probe is connected, the operator is automatically selected to reduce the burden on the operator.
[0096]
[Appendix]
According to the embodiment of the present invention described in detail above, the following configuration can be obtained.
[0097]
(Supplementary Note 1) In an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave to and from an object from an ultrasonic probe and displays an ultrasonic image of the object using the obtained echo data,
Identification means for identifying the type of the connected ultrasonic probe,
Input / output setting means for setting input / output means according to the type of the ultrasonic probe identified by the identification means,
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:
[0098]
(Supplementary Note 2) The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is connectable to a plurality of ultrasonic probes, and the identification unit identifies a type of the plurality of ultrasonic probes, and further includes a plurality of ultrasonic probes. The ultrasonic wave according to claim 1, wherein a priority order is set for the type of the acoustic probe, and the input / output setting means sets the input / output means based on the set priority order. Diagnostic device.
[0099]
(Supplementary Note 3) The supplementary note 1 or 2, wherein the input / output setting unit sets an image display format when displaying an ultrasound image according to the type of the ultrasound probe. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus as described in the above.
[0100]
(Supplementary Note 4) The input / output setting unit sets a switching assignment of a display format switching unit that switches an image display format when displaying an ultrasonic image in accordance with the type of the ultrasonic probe. 4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 3, wherein:
[0101]
(Supplementary Note 5) In an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave to and from a living body and displays an ultrasonic tomographic image in the living body using the obtained echo data,
A probe automatic recognition means for automatically recognizing the connected ultrasonic probe;
Image display format setting means capable of simultaneously and selectively displaying a plurality of types of ultrasonic images,
Image construction processing means capable of constructing an ultrasonic image set by the image display format setting means,
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus wherein an initial display of an image display format can be automatically switched according to a type of a recognized ultrasonic probe.
[0102]
(Supplementary note 6) The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Supplementary note 5, wherein the assignment of the display format switching key on the operation console can be automatically changed according to the recognized type of the ultrasound probe.
[0103]
(Supplementary note 7) The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of Supplementary notes 5 and 6, wherein a user can set an initial display format and / or an assignment of a display switching key.
[0104]
(Supplementary Note 8) An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave to and from a living body and displays an ultrasonic tomographic image in the living body using the obtained echo data.
One probe is provided which has a probe connection means capable of simultaneously connecting at least two or more ultrasonic probes, and a probe automatic identification means for automatically recognizing the connected ultrasonic probes. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized in that when only a probe is connected to the probe connection means, the connected ultrasonic probe is automatically selected.
[0105]
(Supplementary Note 9) When a plurality of ultrasonic probes are connected to the probe connecting means, a probe connecting means which has been assigned a priority in advance is selected, and is connected to another ultrasonic probe. 13. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8, wherein switching is performed on a console.
[0106]
(Supplementary Note 10) If the power supply switch for the ultrasonic probe is turned off when the freeze release key is pressed, the switch is automatically turned on and the connected ultrasonic probe is turned on. 9. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a live performance is automatically selected and set.
[0107]
【The invention's effect】
In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, the optimal display screen format preset according to the ultrasonic probe is automatically selected and set, and the display image format can be changed according to the operator's preference. Selection and setting can be easily and reliably performed only by operating the display switching key of the terminal, which has the effect of reducing the size of the console as the operation terminal and improving the efficiency of ultrasonic diagnosis.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a first embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a processing operation by a CPU used in the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which a radial image is displayed on a monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which a radial image and a linear image are simultaneously displayed on a monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which four screens including a surface construction image of a three-dimensional image are simultaneously displayed on the monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which four screens including a perspective construction image of a three-dimensional image are simultaneously displayed on the monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a relationship between a surface construction image of a three-dimensional image and an ultrasonic tomographic image displayed on the monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a configuration of a display switching key of the operation terminal used in the first embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating recognition of an ultrasound probe by a CPU used in a first embodiment of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention, and an operation of selecting and setting a display image format and the like.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating comments and distance measurement inputs on an ultrasonic radial image displayed on a monitor of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is an external perspective view showing an external configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an identification and recognition operation of an ultrasonic probe used in a second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment
2. Ultrasonic probe
3. Drive unit
4: Transmitter / receiver
5 Analog / digital converter
6: first frame memory
7. Second frame memory
8 Digital / analog converter
9 Monitor
10. System controller
11 CPU
12: Main storage device
13. Image data recording device
14. External storage device
15 ... Operation terminal
16 Pointing device
17 Data transfer bus

Claims (4)

In an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave to and from an object from an ultrasonic probe and displays an ultrasonic image of the object using the obtained echo data,
Identification means for identifying the type of the connected ultrasonic probe,
Input / output setting means for setting input / output means according to the type of the ultrasonic probe identified by the identification means,
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, a plurality of ultrasonic probes can be connected, the identification unit identifies the type of the plurality of ultrasonic probes, and further, the plurality of ultrasonic probes 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a priority is set for the type of the input / output unit, and the input / output setting unit sets the input / output unit based on the set priority. . 3. The ultrasonic input / output device according to claim 1, wherein the input / output setting unit sets an image display format for displaying an ultrasonic image according to a type of the ultrasonic probe. 4. Ultrasound diagnostic device. The input / output setting unit sets a switching assignment of a display format switching unit that switches an image display format when displaying an ultrasonic image, according to a type of the ultrasonic probe. Item 4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 3.

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