JP2009254689A - Ultrasonic image generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic endoscope system which can clearly show on which status scanning is performed by ultrasonic beams. <P>SOLUTION: This ultrasonic image generation system comprises an ultrasonic image generation section which forms and outputs ultrasonic images of an object site by inputting the reflection waves of an ultrasonic beam scanning the object site as echo signals and by implementing prescribed signal processing to echo signals, and a guide image generation section to form a guide image for guiding anatomical positions and orientations in the body cavity on the ultrasonic images. The guide image generation section forms markers in the guide image which visualizes the present scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the object site. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasound image generation system, and more particularly to an ultrasound image generation system capable of generating a guide image for guiding an anatomical position and orientation of an ultrasound image in a body cavity.

  Generation of an ultrasonic image as a tomographic image of the living body by emitting an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the living body as a subject and receiving a reflected wave reflected by the living body tissue inside the living body Conventionally, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of performing in real time has been widely used. The ultrasonic image generated by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is used, for example, when an operator or the like performs diagnosis of a depth of lesion or observation of an internal state of an organ.

  Further, in the above-described ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, it has a function capable of generating a guide image capable of showing the surgeon the anatomical position of the ultrasonic image that is the observation target part. For example, an apparatus described in Patent Document 1 has been proposed.

The intra-body-cavity probe apparatus of Patent Literature 1 generates an ultrasonic tomographic image marker in the above-described guide image to indicate correspondence between an ultrasonic image that is an observation target site and a display range in a display unit such as a monitor. It has a possible configuration.
JP 2008-6108 A

  However, the ultrasonic tomographic image marker generated in the intra-body-cavity probe apparatus of Patent Document 1 is scanned in real time in any direction with respect to which part (organ), for example, in real time. It is difficult to understand at a glance.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic image generation system capable of easily showing in what state scanning by an ultrasonic beam is performed. It is said.

  The ultrasonic image generation system according to the present invention inputs a reflected wave of an ultrasonic beam that scans a test site as an echo signal, and performs predetermined signal processing on the echo signal to thereby detect the test site. An ultrasonic image generation unit that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image; and a guide image generation unit that generates a guide image for guiding an anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity. In the ultrasonic image generation system, the guide image generation unit generates a marker in the guide image in which a current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the examination site is visualized.

  The ultrasonic image generation system according to the present invention inputs a reflected wave of an ultrasonic beam that scans a test site as an echo signal, and performs predetermined signal processing on the echo signal to thereby detect the test site. An ultrasonic image generation unit that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image, a first guide image for guiding an anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity, and scanning of the ultrasonic beam An ultrasonic image generation system comprising: a guide image generation unit configured to generate a second guide image in which a cut surface obtained by cutting the first guide image along the plane is shown in the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image. The guide image generation unit generates a marker in the first guide image in which a current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the examination site is visualized, and the ultrasonic wave And generating a mask for distinguishing between the display range and the non-display area in the display unit for displaying an image in said second guide image.

  The ultrasonic image generation system according to the present invention inputs a reflected wave of an ultrasonic beam that scans a test site as an echo signal, and performs predetermined signal processing on the echo signal to thereby detect the test site. An ultrasonic image generation unit that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image, a first guide image for guiding an anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity, and scanning of the ultrasonic beam An ultrasonic image generation system comprising: a guide image generation unit configured to generate a second guide image in which a cut surface obtained by cutting the first guide image along the plane is shown in the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image. The guide image generation unit generates a marker in the first guide image in which a current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the examination site is visualized, and the ultrasonic wave A mask for distinguishing between a display range and a non-display range in a display unit that displays an image is generated in the second guide image, and an area indicating the scanning range of the ultrasonic beam in the marker, and the display A scale indicating the scale of the test site is superimposed on at least one of the areas inside the mask indicating the range.

  The ultrasonic image generation system according to the present invention inputs a reflected wave of an ultrasonic beam that scans a test site as an echo signal, and performs predetermined signal processing on the echo signal to thereby detect the test site. An ultrasonic image generation unit that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image, a first guide image for guiding an anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity, and scanning of the ultrasonic beam An ultrasonic image generation system comprising: a guide image generation unit configured to generate a second guide image in which a cut surface obtained by cutting the first guide image along the plane is shown in the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image. The guide image generation unit generates a marker in the first guide image in which a current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the examination site is visualized, and the ultrasonic wave When an instruction has been made for changing the display range of the image, the size of the marker and changes to suit the display range.

  According to the ultrasonic image generation system of the present invention, it is possible to easily show in what state the scanning by the ultrasonic beam is performed.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  1 to 15 relate to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a main part of an ultrasonic endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stereoscopic guide image generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an ultrasonic tomographic image marker generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional guide image generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image generated by combining a stereoscopic guide image, a cross-section guide image, and an ultrasonic image. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition when the display mode is switched in the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition when the display range is changed in the ultrasonic endoscope system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition when switching between normal display and left / right reverse display is performed in the ultrasonic endoscope system according to the present embodiment.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example different from FIG. 3 of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example different from FIGS. 3 and 9 of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an ultrasonic tomographic image marker that is generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment and has no scales superimposed thereon. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an ultrasonic tomographic image marker generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system according to the present embodiment in a state where a linear scale is superimposed. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasonic tomographic image marker in a state where concentric semicircular scales are superimposed, which are generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional guide image in a state where the linear scales illustrated in FIG. 12 are superimposed. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional guide image in a state where the concentric semicircular scales illustrated in FIG. 13 are superimposed.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic endoscope system 1 as an ultrasonic image generation system includes an ultrasonic endoscope 2, an antenna unit 3A, a position detection device 3B, an ultrasonic diagnostic device 4, and an image. The main part includes a processing device 5, an operation instruction unit 6 capable of giving various instructions related to the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope system 1, and a monitor 7 having a function as a display unit. Has been.

  The ultrasonic endoscope 2 includes a distal end portion 21 that can be inserted into a living body as a subject, an elongated insertion portion 22 that is connected to the rear end side of the distal end portion 21, and a rear end side of the insertion portion 22. And a cable 24 in which a plurality of signal lines for inputting and outputting various signals are provided.

  The distal end portion 21 includes a convex scanning (or radial scanning) ultrasonic transducer 21 a and a coil 21 b that outputs an electric signal in accordance with a magnetic field applied from the outside.

  The ultrasonic transducer 21a is driven based on a drive signal from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4, and emits an ultrasonic beam into the living body. The ultrasonic transducer 21 a receives a reflected wave reflected by the ultrasonic beam in the living tissue inside the living body, and outputs an echo signal corresponding to the reflected wave to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4.

  In the insertion portion 22, a plurality of coils 22 a that output an electric signal in accordance with a magnetic field applied from the outside are arranged along the longitudinal direction.

  In the present embodiment, a coil (not shown) having the same configuration as the coil 21b or the coil 22a is provided at a plurality of locations on the body surface of the subject to be observed by the ultrasonic endoscope 2. Shall.

  The operation unit 23 includes a switch (not shown) that can give various instructions related to the operation of the ultrasound endoscope system 1.

  One end of the cable 24 extends from the operation unit 23, and a connector 24 a that can be connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 is provided on the other end. In addition, a scope ID storage unit 24b made of, for example, a memory or the like in which various types of information related to the ultrasonic endoscope 2 are stored is provided inside the connector 24a.

  In the scope ID storage unit 24b of the present embodiment, as various information related to the ultrasound endoscope 2, for example, the shape information of the array of the ultrasound array provided in the ultrasound transducer 21a, and the ultrasound It is assumed that information such as mounting position orientation information for the insertion portion 22 of the acoustic wave array is stored. When the connector 24a is connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4, the scope ID storage unit 24b transmits various information related to the ultrasonic endoscope 2 (hereinafter referred to as ultrasonic scanning information) to the ultrasonic Output to the sonic diagnostic apparatus 4.

  The antenna unit 3 </ b> A includes a magnetic field radiation antenna 31 that radiates a magnetic field toward the outside, and an antenna driving unit 32 that drives the magnetic field radiation antenna 31.

  The position detection device 3B performs calculation for specifying the position where the coil 21b exists and the orientation of the coil 21b based on the electrical signal from the coil 21b, and thereby the tip position / orientation data corresponding to the calculation result. Are generated sequentially. Further, the position detection device 3B performs an operation for specifying the position where each coil 22a exists and the orientation of each coil 22a based on the electrical signal from each coil 22a, thereby inserting according to the operation result. The part position / orientation data is sequentially generated. Then, the position detection device 3B outputs the distal end portion position / orientation data and the insertion portion position / orientation data together to the image processing device 5. Furthermore, the position detection device 3B supplies power required for driving the antenna unit 3A to the antenna drive unit 32 when the power is turned on.

  The position detection device 3B detects and detects the posture of the subject by performing calculations based on electrical signals output from coils (not shown) provided at a plurality of locations on the body surface of the subject. The posture is output to the image processing apparatus 5 as subject orientation data.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 generates and outputs a drive signal for driving the ultrasonic transducer 21a.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 having a function as an ultrasonic image generation unit converts an ultrasonic image as a tomographic image of a living body into ultrasonic scanning information in the scope ID storage unit 24b based on an echo signal from the ultrasonic transducer 21a. Are sequentially generated at a frame rate corresponding to. Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 sequentially outputs the generated ultrasonic image to the image processing apparatus 5.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 is based on the ultrasonic scanning information output from the scope ID storage unit 24b, the mounting position orientation information for the insertion unit 22 of the ultrasonic array provided in the ultrasonic transducer 21a, and the ultrasonic transducer 21a. Information on the emission direction of the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a, scanning range shape information (view angle information) by the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a, and information on the ultrasonic beam that can be emitted simultaneously from the ultrasonic transducer 21a. Scanning state data comprising information on the number, information on the number and position of the focus of the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a, and information on the frame rate corresponding to the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a Is detected.

  On the other hand, when an instruction signal related to various instructions is input from the operation instruction unit 6, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 4 emits the ultrasound beam emitted from the ultrasound transducer 21a and the ultrasound transducer 21a. Control for appropriately changing the scanning range shape (view angle) by the emitted ultrasonic beam and the number of ultrasonic beams simultaneously emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a is performed on the ultrasonic transducer 21a. Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 outputs the changed scanning state data to the image processing device 5 while reflecting the above-described control contents in the scanning state data.

  In addition, when an instruction signal related to image output to the monitor 7 (image display on the monitor 7) is input from the operation instruction unit 6, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 4 outputs the instruction signal to the image processing apparatus 5.

  The image processing device 5 includes a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a guide image generation unit 53, and a display image generation unit 54.

  The control unit 51 controls the guide image generation unit 53 to generate an ultrasonic tomographic image marker in which the scanning state of the ultrasonic transducer 21 a is visualized based on the scanning state data output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4. Against.

  The control unit 51 performs control for changing the state of image output to the monitor 7 (image display on the monitor 7) based on the instruction signal from the operation instruction unit 6 input via the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4. This is performed for the generation unit 53 and the display image generation unit 54.

  The storage unit 52 including a hard disk drive or the like is connected to, for example, an X-ray three-dimensional helical CT apparatus or a three-dimensional MRI apparatus via a network line 8 as a communication line for communicating with other apparatuses other than the image processing apparatus 5. Is connected to a three-dimensional tomographic image generation device 9 comprising: As a result, the storage unit 52 is obtained by performing a scan using the three-dimensional tomographic image generation device 9 in advance on the same subject as the subject to be observed by the ultrasonic endoscope 2. The tomographic images are respectively input and accumulated via the network line 8.

  The guide image generation unit 53 generates insertion shape data for indicating the insertion shape of the ultrasonic endoscope 2 based on the distal end portion position / orientation data output from the position detection device 3B and the insertion portion position / orientation data. Generate.

  The guide image generation unit 53 is an ultrasonic tomographic image marker for visualizing the scanning state of the ultrasonic transducer 21a based on the control of the control unit 51 and the tip position / orientation data output from the position detection device 3B. , And a scope tip marker that images the configuration of the tip 21 including the ultrasonic transducer 21a.

  In the guide image generation unit 53, the tip 21 is currently arranged inside the subject based on the tip position / orientation data output from the position detection device 3B and the three-dimensional tomographic image stored in the storage unit 52. 3D biological tissue model data such as an organ group existing in the vicinity of the location is generated.

  The guide image generation unit 53 generates subject orientation image data obtained by imaging the body position of the subject to be observed by the ultrasonic endoscope 2 based on the subject orientation data output from the position detection device 3B.

  Based on the control of the control unit 51, the guide image generation unit 53 receives the insertion shape data, the ultrasonic tomographic image marker, the scope distal end marker, the three-dimensional biological tissue model data, and the subject orientation image data. By combining them, various guide images are generated and output to the display image generation unit 54.

  The display image generation unit 54 generates a composite image obtained by combining the ultrasound image output from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 4 and the guide image output from the guide image generation unit 53 based on the control of the control unit 51. A video signal based on the composite image is generated and output to the monitor 7.

  The operation instruction unit 6 is displayed on a screen of a monitor 6 and a keyboard 6a that outputs an instruction signal related to a character input instruction and an instruction to execute a predetermined function (for example, left-right reversal of an ultrasonic image). And a mouse 6b for outputting an instruction signal relating to an instruction for operating the pointer.

  The monitor 7 displays various images on the screen according to the video signal from the image processing device 5.

  Next, the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 will be described. In the following, a description will be mainly given of a case where the ultrasonic transducer 21a is a convex scanning type.

  First, the surgeon or the like turns on the respective parts of the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 to activate each part.

  Thereafter, the operator or the like calls a setting screen (not shown) by operating the operation instruction unit 6, and an ultrasonic scanning range marker indicating the scanning range by the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a on the setting screen (not shown). Set the transparency of. The transparency information set in this way is output as a transparency setting instruction signal to the control unit 51 of the image processing apparatus 5 via the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4.

  The ultrasonic transducer 21a is driven when the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 is activated, emits an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the living body, and then receives a reflected wave reflected by the living body tissue inside the living body. And outputs an echo signal corresponding to the reflected wave.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 sequentially generates an ultrasonic image as a tomographic image of a living body based on an echo signal from the ultrasonic transducer 21a at a frame rate corresponding to the ultrasonic scanning information in the scope ID storage unit 24b. Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 sequentially outputs the generated ultrasonic image to the image processing apparatus 5.

  On the other hand, the coil 21b and each coil 22a detect a magnetic field applied as the antenna unit 3A is activated, and output an electric signal corresponding to the detected magnetic field to the position detection device 3B.

  The position detection device 3B performs a calculation for specifying the position where the coil 21b and each coil 22a exist based on the electrical signal from the ultrasonic endoscope 2, and the tip position / orientation data according to the calculation result and The insertion portion position / orientation data is output to the image processing device 5. The position detection device 3B detects and detects the posture of the subject by performing calculations based on electrical signals output from coils (not shown) provided at a plurality of locations on the body surface of the subject. The posture is output to the image processing apparatus 5 as subject orientation data.

  The guide image generation unit 53 is based on the input data and the control of the control unit 51, and includes insertion shape data, an ultrasonic tomographic image marker, a scope tip marker, three-dimensional biological tissue model data, and subject orientation. Image data is generated respectively.

  Then, the guide image generation unit 53 generates a three-dimensional guide image 101 as shown in FIG. 2, for example, by combining data generated by itself.

  According to the three-dimensional guide image 101 shown in FIG. 2, the current posture (orientation state) of the subject is shown as the subject orientation image 101a. Note that the subject orientation image 101a in FIG. 2 shows a case where the subject is in the left-side position as an example of the current posture (orientation state) of the subject.

  According to the three-dimensional guide image 101 shown in FIG. 2, a three-dimensional body tissue such as an organ is color-coded so as to have different colors and relatively matches the body position (orientation state) of the subject. It is shown as a biological tissue model 101b.

  According to the three-dimensional guide image 101 shown in FIG. 2, the positional relationship between the distal end portion 21 and the insertion portion 22 (and the curved state of the insertion portion 22) with respect to an organ or the like shown as the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b is the insertion shape image 101c. Is shown as

  Note that the subject orientation image 101a, the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b, and the insertion shape image 101c can be generated by a method similar to the method disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2008-6108. Therefore, detailed description of the method for generating the subject orientation image 101a, the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b, and the insertion shape image 101c is omitted.

  On the other hand, according to the three-dimensional guide image 101 shown in FIG. 2, in the organ or the like shown as the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101 b, the site where the scanning with the ultrasonic beam from the ultrasonic transducer 21 a is performed in real time is This is indicated by the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d is emitted from an ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 indicating a scanning range by an ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a and the ultrasonic transducer 21a. An ultrasonic beam marker 202 indicating the emission direction of the ultrasonic beam and the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam is configured.

  Here, a method for generating the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 and the ultrasonic beam marker 202 in the present embodiment will be described.

  The control unit 51 detects that the ultrasonic transducer 21a is a convex scanning type based on the scanning state data output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4, and uses the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a. It is detected that the scanning range is a semicircular plane. Further, the control unit 51 detects the setting content of the transparency of the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 based on the input transparency setting instruction signal.

  On the other hand, the control unit 51 calculates the scanning cycle by the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a based on the scanning state data output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4, and the scanning cycle is 8 times or 16 times. The obtained value is detected as ultrasonic beam marker period information. Further, the control unit 51 detects the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam on the semicircular plane based on the scanning state data output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4.

  Then, the control unit 51 performs control for generating the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 as a semicircular plane based on each detection result described above, and sets the ultrasonic beam marker 202 on the semicircular plane. Control for generation is performed on the guide image generation unit 53.

  Under the control of the control unit 51, the guide image generation unit 53 generates the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 so that the entire area of the semicircular plane has the transparency set by the operation of the operation instruction unit 6.

  Further, the guide image generation unit 53 is based on the control of the control unit 51, and an ultrasonic beam marker 202 indicating the emission direction of the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a and the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam. Is generated.

  Note that the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 and the ultrasonic beam marker 202 generated in the present embodiment are as shown in FIG. 3, for example.

  Here, a specific example of a method for generating the ultrasonic beam marker 202 in the present embodiment will be described below. In the following, the case where scanning is performed using only one ultrasonic beam will be mainly described.

  The guide image generation unit 53 generates a substantially linear bright line along the emission direction of the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a.

  Thereafter, the guide image generation unit 53 performs processing for moving the bright line on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201. Specifically, the guide image generating unit 53 has a moving speed (moving cycle) according to the ultrasonic beam marker cycle information detected by the control unit 51 and moves along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam. The bright line is moved on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 so as to have a direction. Further, the guide image generation unit 53 performs processing so that an afterimage accompanying the movement of the bright line is inserted as a visual effect based on the movement speed (movement period) and the movement direction described above.

  That is, the ultrasonic beam marker 202 in the present embodiment is generated as a bright line that periodically moves along the scanning direction on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 with an afterimage.

  On the other hand, the guide image generation unit 53 uses a scope tip marker, three-dimensional biological tissue model data, and the like, a surface on which scanning with an ultrasonic beam from the ultrasonic transducer 21a is performed (an ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d). A cross-section guide image 102 showing a cut surface obtained by cutting the three-dimensional guide image 101 (three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b) along the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 Is generated.

  According to the cross-section guide image 102 shown in FIG. 4, the position of the distal end portion 21 including the ultrasonic transducer 21a is indicated by the scope distal end portion marker 102a. The scope tip marker 102a of the present embodiment is shown (drawn) in a state where the position is fixed near the upper center in the cross-sectional guide image 102.

  According to the cross-sectional guide image 102 shown in FIG. 4, the display range and non-display range of the ultrasonic image are shown as being distinguished from each other by the mask 102 b generated as a rectangular plane.

  The “display range” corresponding to the area inside the mask 102 b indicates the display part of the ultrasonic image on the monitor 7.

  In the “display range” corresponding to the inner region of the mask 102b, the cut surface obtained by cutting the stereoscopic guide image 101 along the surface on which scanning with the ultrasonic beam from the ultrasonic transducer 21a is performed is uniform. It is indicated by the brightness. Further, in the “display range” corresponding to the inner region of the mask 102b, the three-dimensional guide image 101 is cut in the direction perpendicular to the surface on which scanning with the ultrasonic beam from the ultrasonic transducer 21a is performed. Each part on the back side from the cut surface is shown so as to show a shadow and show through.

  A “non-display range” corresponding to an area outside the mask 102 b indicates a non-display portion of the ultrasonic image on the monitor 7.

  Each part of the “non-display range” corresponding to the area outside the mask 102b is shaded and shown to have lower brightness than each part of the “display range” corresponding to the area inside the mask 102b. Has been.

  According to the configuration of the mask 102b generated by the guide image generation unit 53 described above, the display state (brightness) of the “display range” and the “non-display range” are different from each other. Is easily displayed at a glance.

  In this embodiment, the transparency of the “display range” and the transparency of the “non-display range” of the mask 102b may be individually set.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when one of the transparency of the “display range” and the transparency of the “non-display range” of the mask 102b is set, the transparency of the other is set in conjunction. It may have such a configuration.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, one of the transparency of the “display range” of the mask 102b, the transparency of the “non-display range”, and the transparency of the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 is set. In this case, the other two transparency levels may be set in conjunction with each other.

  On the other hand, the guide image generation unit 53 outputs the stereoscopic guide image 101 and the cross-section guide image 102 and an operation panel described later to the display image generation unit 54.

  Based on the control of the control unit 51, the display image generation unit 54 generates a composite image obtained by combining the ultrasonic image, the stereoscopic guide image 101, the cross-section guide image 102, and an operation panel described later, and then combines the composite image. A video signal based on the image is generated and output to the monitor 7. As a result, a composite image as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the monitor 7, for example.

  According to the composite image shown as an example in FIG. 5, the stereoscopic guide image 101 and the cross-sectional guide image 102 having substantially the same size are arranged in the left region of the screen, and the ultrasonic image 103 is the right region of the screen. It is displayed while being arranged.

  In the ultrasonic image 103, the position of the distal end portion 21 including the ultrasonic transducer 21a is indicated by the scope distal end marker 103a in substantially the same manner as the scope distal end marker 102a in the cross-section guide image 102.

  Note that the scope tip marker 103a of the present embodiment is shown (drawn) in a state where the position is fixed near the upper center in the ultrasonic image 103. In the present embodiment, when the ultrasonic endoscope 2 includes a normal observation optical system, the position where the objective lens is disposed is shown (drawn) together with the scope distal end marker 103a. It may be.

  According to the composite image shown as an example in FIG. 5, the operation panel 104 capable of checking and changing the image display state is disposed at the bottom of the screen.

  The operation panel 104 includes, for example, a plurality of buttons that can be operated with a mouse cursor (not shown). It should be noted that the operation content on the operation panel 104 is selected from the guide image generation unit 53 and the display image generation unit 54 according to the control of the control unit 51 that detects the operation content (as an instruction signal from the operation instruction unit 6). It is reflected when at least one of them operates. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that buttons (keys) having the same function as a plurality of buttons provided on the operation panel 104 are also provided, for example, on the keyboard 6a.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the operation panel 104 includes a double guide display button 104a, a duplex display button 104b, and a triple display button 104c as buttons that can change the display state of the screen on the monitor 7. ing.

  Note that the composite image shown as an example in FIG. 5 is displayed on the monitor 7 in the triplex display mode when the triplex display button 104c is pressed. Further, the operation panel 104 always displays the monitor 7 even when the screen display mode (screen display state) is changed by pressing the double guide display button 104a, the duplex display button 104b, the triple display button 104c, or the like. It is assumed that it is displayed in the area corresponding to the bottom of the screen.

  When the double guide display button 104a is pressed, the screen display state on the monitor 7 is switched to the double guide display mode. Specifically, when the double guide display button 104a is pressed, the stereoscopic guide image 101 and the cross-section guide image 102 are displayed in the left and right areas of the screen, respectively, and the ultrasonic image 103 is not displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when the composite image in the triplex display mode (the composite image shown as an example in FIG. 5) is displayed, when the duplex display button 104 b is pressed, the screen display state on the monitor 7 is changed. Switch to duplex 3D guide display mode. Specifically, when the composite image in the triplex display mode is displayed, when the duplex display button 104b is pressed, the stereoscopic guide image 101 having the same size as the triplex display mode is displayed on the left side of the screen. The ultrasonic image 103 having the same size as that of the triplex display mode is displayed while being arranged in the region, and is displayed while being arranged in the region on the right side of the screen, and the cross-section guide image 102 is not displayed.

  When the composite image in the duplex stereoscopic guide display mode is displayed, when the duplex display button 104b is pressed, the display state of the screen on the monitor 7 is switched to the duplex section guide display mode. Specifically, when a composite image in the duplex stereoscopic guide display mode is displayed, when the duplex display button 104b is pressed, the cross-sectional guide image 102 having the same size as the triple display mode is displayed on the left side of the screen. The ultrasonic image 103 having the same size as the triplex display mode is displayed while being arranged in the right region of the screen, and the stereoscopic guide image 101 is not displayed.

  When the composite image in the duplex section guide display mode is displayed, when the duplex display button 104b is further pressed, the display state of the screen on the monitor 7 is switched to the duplex three-dimensional guide display mode.

  When the composite image in the duplex stereoscopic guide display mode or the duplex section guide display mode is displayed, when the triplex display button 104c is pressed, the display state of the screen on the monitor 7 is switched to the triplex display mode.

  FIG. 6 shows how the screen display state is switched in response to pressing of the duplex display button 104b and the triple display button 104c.

  According to the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 having the configuration and operation as described above, it is possible to switch various display modes, so that an operator can efficiently put a desired image in the display screen of the monitor 7. Can be output automatically.

  The digestive tract display button 104d is configured as a button that can switch a portion corresponding to the digestive tract of the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b to display or non-display when pressed.

  The liver display button 104e is configured as a button that can switch a portion corresponding to the liver of the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b to display or non-display when pressed.

  The kidney display button 104f is configured as a button that can switch a portion corresponding to the kidney of the three-dimensional biological tissue model 101b to display or non-display when pressed.

  The coil operation notification unit 104g clearly indicates the detection status of the tip position / orientation data based on the electrical signal from the coil 21b and the insertion part position / orientation data based on the electrical signal from each coil 22a (for example, by color coding). It has a possible configuration.

  The live / freeze button 104h has a configuration capable of switching the display state of the ultrasonic image 103 to a live image or a freeze image when pressed.

  On the other hand, when the load button 104i is pressed, a menu screen (not shown) for selecting one ultrasonic image from among those stored in advance in a storage device (not shown) and outputting it to the monitor 7 is called. The one ultrasonic image selected on the menu screen (not shown) can be appropriately reproduced by operating (pressing) the frame return button 104j, the pause button 104k, the reproduction button 104m, and the frame advance button 104n. It is displayed as a moving image of the switchable ultrasonic image 103. Note that the timing of display frames in the entire moving image at the time of frame advance or frame return can be appropriately changed by operating the frame advance scale 104p.

  In the range notification unit 104q, the display range of the currently displayed ultrasonic image 103 is clearly shown using centimeter units.

  The reduction button 104r is configured as a button that can expand the display range of the currently displayed ultrasonic image 103 by pressing. The enlargement button 104s is configured as a button that can narrow the display range of the currently displayed ultrasonic image 103 by pressing.

  Here, the operation when the display range is changed by pressing the reduction button 104r and the enlargement button 104s will be described mainly with reference to FIG. As an example, an image when the display range is 12 cm is shown as an upper diagram in FIG. 7, and an image when the display range is 8 cm is shown as a lower diagram in FIG. 7.

  When the enlargement button 104s is pressed when the upper image in FIG. 7 is displayed on the monitor 7, the control unit 51 indicates that the display range has been changed from 12 cm to 8 cm (from the operation instruction unit 6). Detect as instruction signal).

  Then, the control unit 51 adjusts the size of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d in the stereoscopic guide image 101, the display state of the cross-sectional guide image 102, and the size of the scope tip end markers 102a and 103a to the display range of 8 cm. Control is performed on the guide image generation unit 53.

  Based on the control of the control unit 51, the guide image generation unit 53 reduces the size of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d to fit the display range of 8 cm, and sets the “display range” and “non-display range” of the mask 102b. A cross-sectional guide image is regenerated to fit the display range of 8 cm. At the same time, the guide image generator 53 enlarges the size of the scope tip markers 102a and 103a so as to fit the display range of 8 cm.

  When the enlargement button 104s is pressed when the upper image of FIG. 7 is displayed on the monitor 7, an ultrasonic image in a state where the display range is changed from 12 cm to 8 cm is displayed from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4. Is output.

  Then, the stereoscopic guide image 101 reduced so that the size of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d fits the display range of 8 cm, and the “display range” and “non-display range” of the mask 102b fit the display range of 8 cm. The enlarged cross-section guide image 102, the ultrasonic image 103 in a state where the display range is changed to 8 cm, and the operation panel 104 are combined in the display image generation unit 54, whereby the lower image in FIG. Generated.

  On the other hand, when the reduction button 104r is pressed when the lower image of FIG. 7 is displayed on the monitor 7, the control unit 51 indicates that the display range has been changed from 8 cm to 12 cm (from the operation instruction unit 6). As an instruction signal).

  Then, the control unit 51 matches the size of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d in the stereoscopic guide image 101, the display state of the cross-sectional guide image 102, and the sizes of the scope tip end markers 102a and 103a with a display range of 12 cm. Control for the guide image generation unit 53.

  Under the control of the control unit 51, the guide image generation unit 53 enlarges the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d so that it fits the display range of 12 cm, and the “display range” and “non-display range” of the mask 102b A cross-sectional guide image is generated again so as to fit the display range of 12 cm. At the same time, the guide image generation unit 53 reduces the size of the scope distal end markers 102a and 103a so as to fit the display range of 12 cm.

  7 is displayed on the monitor 7, when the reduction button 104r is pressed, an ultrasonic image in which the display range is changed from 8 cm to 12 cm is output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4. Is done.

  Then, the stereoscopic guide image 101 enlarged so that the size of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d fits the display range of 12 cm, and the “display range” and “non-display range” of the mask 102b fit the display range of 12 cm. The reduced cross-sectional guide image 102, the ultrasonic image 103 in a state where the display range is changed to 12 cm, and the operation panel 104 are combined in the display image generation unit 54, whereby the upper image in FIG. Is generated.

  In addition, referring to FIG. 8 mainly regarding the operation when a left / right reverse display button (not shown) having a function of switching between normal display and left / right reverse display in the ultrasonic image provided on the keyboard 6a is pressed. I will tell you. As an example, an image when the image is not horizontally reversed is shown as an upper view of FIG. 8, and an image when the image is horizontally reversed is shown as a lower view of FIG.

  8 is displayed on the monitor 7, when the horizontally reversed display button of the keyboard 6a is pressed, the control unit 51 indicates that a horizontally reversed display instruction has been given (as an instruction signal). Detect.

  Then, the control unit 51 draws the orientation of a living tissue such as an organ drawn in the cross-sectional guide image 102, the direction of the scope tip marker 102a drawn in the cross-sectional guide image 102, and the ultrasonic image 103. Control for reversing the direction of the scope tip marker 103a to be performed in the horizontal direction is performed on the guide image generation unit 53.

  Based on the control of the control unit 51, the guide image generation unit 53 regenerates the cross-sectional guide image while inverting the direction of the living tissue such as an organ and the direction of the scope distal end marker 102a to the left and right. Further, the guide image generation unit 53 inverts the direction of the scope tip marker 103 a in the ultrasonic image 103 to the left and right based on the control of the control unit 51.

  8 is displayed on the monitor 7, when the left / right reverse display button of the keyboard 6a is pressed, an ultrasonic image reversed in the horizontal direction is output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4. Is done.

  Then, a three-dimensional guide image 101 similar to the upper diagram of FIG. 8, a cross-sectional guide image 102 in a state where the orientation of a living tissue such as an organ and the orientation of the scope tip marker 102 a are reversed in the left-right direction, and the orientation is the left-right direction 8 is generated by combining the scope tip marker 103a, the ultrasonic image 103, and the operation panel 104 in the inverted state in the display image generation unit 54.

  On the other hand, when the image shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 is displayed on the monitor 7, when the horizontally reversed display button of the keyboard 6a is pressed, the control unit 51 indicates that a normal display instruction has been given (as an instruction signal). Detect.

  Then, the control unit 51 draws the orientation of a living tissue such as an organ drawn in the cross-sectional guide image 102, the direction of the scope tip marker 102a drawn in the cross-sectional guide image 102, and the ultrasonic image 103. Control for setting the direction of the scope tip marker 103 a to be non-inverted is performed on the guide image generation unit 53.

  Based on the control of the control unit 51, the guide image generation unit 53 regenerates the cross-sectional guide image while setting the direction of the living tissue such as an organ and the direction of the scope distal end marker 102a in a non-inverted state. Further, the guide image generation unit 53 sets the direction of the scope distal end marker 103 a in the ultrasonic image 103 to a non-inverted state based on the control of the control unit 51.

  8 is displayed on the monitor 7, when the left / right reverse display button of the keyboard 6a is pressed, an ultrasonic image in the non-inverted state (original orientation) is displayed in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4. Is output from.

  Then, the same three-dimensional guide image 101 as in the lower diagram of FIG. 8, the cross-sectional guide image 102 in a state where the direction of the living tissue such as an organ and the direction of the scope tip marker 102a are not reversed, and the state where the direction is not reversed The scope tip marker 103a, the ultrasound image 103, and the operation panel 104 are combined in the display image generator 54, thereby generating the upper image (original orientation image) of FIG. .

  Note that the processes and operations performed by the respective units in the above-described horizontally reversed display can be applied in substantially the same manner, for example, in the case of vertically reversed display.

  According to the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 having the configuration and operation described above, it is possible to generate and output a guide image that is interlocked with an enlargement / reduction state and an inverted state of an ultrasonic image. In other words, according to the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 having the above-described configuration and operation, the guide that matches the enlargement / reduction state and the inversion state according to the enlargement / reduction state and the inversion state of the ultrasonic image. An image can be generated and output.

  In addition, as described above, the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 according to the present embodiment provides information on which part (organ) and in what direction the scanning with the ultrasonic beam is performed in real time. It has a configuration capable of generating a guide image and an ultrasonic tomographic image marker that can be easily understood at a glance.

  The description of the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 described above is for the case where the ultrasonic transducer 21a is a convex scanning type, but is not limited to this, for example, the ultrasonic transducer 21a is radial. The present invention can be applied in substantially the same manner in the case of the scanning type and in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that performs scanning from outside the body.

  In addition, the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 of the present embodiment includes an ultrasonic tomographic image marker in which the ultrasonic beam marker 202 periodically moves on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 with an afterimage as shown in FIG. For example, an ultrasonic tomographic image marker 111 as shown in FIG. 9 may be generated.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 111 is colored so that a region within the scanning range of the ultrasonic beam (consisting of a semicircular plane) is accompanied by gradation along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam. It has been done. Even when the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 111 having such an aspect is used instead of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d, it is possible to obtain the same effect as described above.

  The description of the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope system 1 described above relates to a method for generating the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d when scanning is performed using only one ultrasonic beam, but is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention can be applied to the case of so-called multi-beam scanning using a plurality of ultrasonic beams in substantially the same manner.

  Here, an operation in the case where the ultrasonic transducer 21a is of a convex scanning type and has a configuration capable of supporting multi-beam scanning will be described. For the sake of simplicity, the description will mainly focus on parts that are different from those already described.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 detects angle information indicating how much angular intervals each of the plurality of ultrasonic beams is scanned based on the ultrasonic scanning information output from the scope ID storage unit 24b. Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4 outputs the information obtained by adding the angle information to the other information detected by itself as scanning state data.

  Based on the scanning state data output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 4, the control unit 51 generates an ultrasonic tomographic image marker in which the scanning state of each of the plurality of ultrasonic beams emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a is visualized. Control for the guide image generation unit 53.

  The guide image generation unit 53 generates a semicircular ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 based on the control of the control unit 51.

  In addition, the guide image generation unit 53 converts the ultrasonic beam marker 202 indicating the emission direction and the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21 a into the ultrasonic beam 1 based on the control of the control unit 51. Generate one per book. In addition, each ultrasonic beam marker 202 shall be produced | generated as a substantially linear bright line.

  Then, the guide image generation unit 53 performs a process for moving each of the bright lines on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201. Specifically, the guide image generating unit 53 has a moving speed (moving cycle) according to the ultrasonic beam marker cycle information detected by the control unit 51 and moves along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam. Each of the bright lines is moved on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 so as to have a direction and an angle interval corresponding to the angle information detected by the control unit 51. Further, the guide image generation unit 53 performs processing so that afterimages accompanying the movement of each of the bright lines are inserted as visual effects based on the movement speed (movement period) and movement direction described above.

  By such processing, for example, when two ultrasonic beams are simultaneously emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 21a, an ultrasonic tomographic image marker 112 as schematically shown in FIG. 10 is generated. As schematically shown in FIG. 10, in the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 112, two ultrasonic beam markers 202 as substantially linear bright lines are each maintained with a predetermined angular interval with an afterimage. , Periodically moves on the ultrasonic scanning range marker 201 along the scanning direction.

  According to the configuration of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 112 described above, when performing multi-beam scanning, scanning with each ultrasonic beam is performed in real time in which direction of which part (organ). Can be shown at a glance.

  On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a scale or the like indicating the scale of the region to be examined (observation target region) may be superimposed on the ultrasonic tomographic image marker.

  Specifically, the guide image generation unit 53 superimposes linear scales with an interval of 1 cm along the vertical and horizontal directions in the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d shown in FIG. A central marker indicating a position corresponding to the vibrator 21a is superimposed. Thereby, the guide image generation unit 53 generates the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 113 shown in FIG.

  In addition, the guide image generation unit 53 superimposes concentric semicircular scales with 1 cm as an interval of one scale in the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d shown in FIG. 11, and further superimposes in the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d. A central marker indicating the position corresponding to the acoustic wave transducer 21a is superimposed. Thereby, the guide image generation unit 53 generates the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 114 shown in FIG. The ultrasonic tomographic image marker 114 shown as an example in FIG. 13 has a concentric semicircular broken line indicating an interval of 1 cm and a concentric semicircular solid line indicating an interval of 5 cm as scales.

  In the present embodiment, for example, when a scale display button (not shown) provided on the keyboard 6a is pressed, the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 101d shown in FIG. 11, the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 113 shown in FIG. It is assumed that one desired display state can be selected from the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 114 shown in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, when the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 113 or 114 is selected, the display state in the stereoscopic guide image 101 and the display state in the cross-sectional guide image 102 are changed in conjunction with each other.

  That is, when the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 113 is selected, the guide image generating unit 53 generates the stereoscopic guide image 101 while using the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 113 and, for example, as shown in FIG. A cross-sectional guide image 102 is generated while superimposing a linear scale along the center, a center marker, and a line indicating the outermost portion of the scanning range on an area within the “display range” of the mask 102b.

  In addition, when the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 114 is selected, the guide image generating unit 53 generates the stereoscopic guide image 101 while using the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 114 and, for example, as shown in FIG. The cross-sectional guide image 102 is generated while superimposing a circular scale, a center marker, and a line indicating the outermost part of the scanning range within the “display range” of the mask 102b.

  According to the configuration of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 113 and the ultrasonic tomographic image marker 114 described above, it is possible to easily show the scale of the portion that is scanned in real time.

  Note that the above-described scale may not be superimposed on the ultrasonic tomographic image marker, and may be superimposed only on the “display range” of the mask 102b, for example.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and applications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The figure which shows an example of a structure of the principal part of the ultrasonic endoscope system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the stereo guide image produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the ultrasonic tomogram marker produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the cross-section guide image produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the image produced | generated by synthesize | combining a solid guide image, a cross-section guide image, and an ultrasonic image. The figure which shows an example of the screen transition at the time of switching the display mode in the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the screen transition at the time of changing the display range in the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the screen transition at the time of switching normal display / left-right inversion display in the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows the example different from FIG. 3 of the ultrasonic tomogram marker produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows the example different from FIG.3 and FIG.9 of the ultrasonic tomogram marker produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the ultrasonic tomogram marker of the state by which the scale is not superimposed produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker of the state on which the linear scale produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment was superimposed. The figure which shows an example of the ultrasonic tomographic image marker of the state on which the concentric semicircle scale produced | generated by the ultrasonic endoscope system of this embodiment was superimposed. The figure which shows an example of the cross-section guide image of the state on which the linear scale shown in FIG. 12 was superimposed. The figure which shows an example of the cross-section guide image of the state on which the concentric semicircle scale shown in FIG. 13 was superimposed.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic endoscope system 2 Ultrasound endoscope 3A Antenna unit 3B Position detection apparatus 4 Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 5 Image processing apparatus 6 Operation instruction part 7 Monitor 8 Network line 9 3D tomographic image generation apparatus 21 Tip part 21a Super Sound transducer 21b, 22a Coil 22 Insertion unit 23 Operation unit 24 Cable 24a Connector 24b Scope ID storage unit 31 Magnetic field radiation antenna 32 Antenna drive unit 51 Control unit 52 Storage unit 53 Guide image generation unit 54 Display image generation unit 54

Claims (11)

Ultrasound that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image of the test site by inputting the reflected wave of the ultrasonic beam that scans the test site as an echo signal and applying predetermined signal processing to the echo signal An image generator;
A guide image generator for generating a guide image for guiding an anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity;
An ultrasound image generation system comprising:
The ultrasonic image generation system, wherein the guide image generation unit generates a marker in the guide image in which a current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the examination site is visualized.   The ultrasonic image generation system according to claim 1, wherein the current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam includes a current scanning direction of the ultrasonic beam.   The guide image generation unit generates an ultrasonic scanning range marker that indicates a scanning range of the ultrasonic beam in the test region in a planar shape, and the ultrasonic scanning range marker is accompanied by gradation along the scanning direction. The ultrasonic image generating system according to claim 2, wherein the system is colored.   The guide image generation unit generates an ultrasonic scanning range marker that indicates a scanning range of the ultrasonic beam in the test region in a planar shape, and an ultrasonic beam marker that indicates the emission direction of the ultrasonic beam in a linear shape. The ultrasonic image generation system according to claim 2, wherein the ultrasonic image generation system is generated on the ultrasonic scanning range marker, and the ultrasonic beam marker is moved along the scanning direction.   The ultrasonic image generation system according to claim 4, wherein the guide image generation unit generates the ultrasonic beam marker so as to move along with the afterimage along the scanning direction. Ultrasound that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image of the test site by inputting the reflected wave of the ultrasonic beam that scans the test site as an echo signal and applying predetermined signal processing to the echo signal An image generator;
A first guide image for guiding the anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity, and a cut surface obtained by cutting the first guide image along the scanning plane of the ultrasonic beam A guide image generation unit for generating a second guide image indicating the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image;
An ultrasound image generation system comprising:
The guide image generation unit generates a marker in which the current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the site to be examined is visualized in the first guide image, and a display range in a display unit that displays the ultrasonic image A mask for distinguishing a non-display range from the non-display range is generated in the second guide image.   It is possible to set at least one transparency among at least part of the marker, an area inside the mask indicating the display range, and an area outside the mask indicating the non-display range. The ultrasonic image generation system according to claim 6.   The transparency of at least a part of the marker, the transparency of the area inside the mask indicating the display range, and the transparency of the area outside the mask indicating the non-display range can be set, and the transparency The ultrasonic image generation system according to claim 6, wherein when one of the transparency levels is set, the other one or two transparency levels are set in conjunction with each other. Ultrasound that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image of the test site by inputting the reflected wave of the ultrasonic beam that scans the test site as an echo signal and applying predetermined signal processing to the echo signal An image generator;
A first guide image for guiding the anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity, and a cut surface obtained by cutting the first guide image along the scanning plane of the ultrasonic beam A guide image generation unit for generating a second guide image indicating the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image;
An ultrasound image generation system comprising:
The guide image generation unit generates a marker in which the current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the site to be examined is visualized in the first guide image, and a display range in a display unit that displays the ultrasonic image A mask for discriminating between the non-display range and the non-display range is generated in the second guide image, the region indicating the scanning range of the ultrasonic beam at the marker, and the region inside the mask indicating the display range An ultrasonic image generation system, wherein a scale indicating the scale of the test site is superimposed on at least one of the regions. Ultrasound that generates and outputs an ultrasonic image of the test site by inputting the reflected wave of the ultrasonic beam that scans the test site as an echo signal and applying predetermined signal processing to the echo signal An image generator;
A first guide image for guiding the anatomical position and orientation of the ultrasonic image in the body cavity, and a cut surface obtained by cutting the first guide image along the scanning plane of the ultrasonic beam A guide image generation unit for generating a second guide image indicating the same orientation state as the ultrasonic image;
An ultrasound image generation system comprising:
The guide image generation unit generates a marker in the first guide image in which a current scanning state of the ultrasonic beam at the examination site is visualized, and receives an instruction to change a display range of the ultrasonic image. An ultrasonic image generation system, wherein when performed, the size of the marker is changed in accordance with the display range.   The guide image generation unit reverses the second guide image without inverting the first guide image when an instruction for inverting the ultrasonic image is given. The ultrasonic image generation system according to claim 10.