JP2013158348A - Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and image processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the accuracy of volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an acquisition section 14b, a computation section 14c, and a control section 16. The acquisition section 14b acquires position information of an ultrasonic probe 1. The computation section 14c computes the position of an orthogonal axis passing through the intersection of two axes and crossing the two axes at right angles on the basis of the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 when a reflected wave used for generating an ultrasonic image in which the two axes are set for a subject to be measured is received. The control section 16 controls the position information of the orthogonal axis concerning the position of the orthogonal axis to display it on a monitor 2.

Description

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

  Conventionally, in image diagnosis using an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, the volume of an object such as a tumor depicted in an ultrasonic image is measured by ellipsoid approximation. In volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation, it is necessary to set three orthogonal axes on the object.

  In volume measurement based on ellipsoidal approximation, the operator sets two axes with reference to an ultrasonic image in which one cross section of the object is depicted, and then sets the two axes by moving the ultrasonic probe. An ultrasonic image in which the object is cut in a cross section orthogonal to the cross section is displayed. Then, the operator sets the third axis on the ultrasonic image determined to be a cross section orthogonal to the cross section where the two axes are set.

  That is, in volume measurement by conventional ellipsoidal approximation, the cross section where the third axis is set is determined by subjective judgment by the operator. For this reason, conventionally, the measurement accuracy may be reduced.

JP 2009-106494 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an image processing program capable of improving the accuracy of volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes an acquisition unit, a calculation unit, and a control unit. The acquisition unit acquires position information of the ultrasonic probe. Based on the position information of the ultrasonic probe at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image in which two axes are set on the object to be measured, the calculation unit intersects the two axes. And the position of the orthogonal axis orthogonal to the two axes is calculated. The control unit controls the orthogonal axis position information related to the orthogonal axis position to be displayed on a predetermined display unit.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an ellipsoid. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining volume measurement by conventional ellipsoid approximation. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the offset information. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing of the calculation unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of guide display control of the control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of guideline display control of the control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(First embodiment)
First, the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment includes an ultrasonic probe 1, a monitor 2, an input device 3, a position sensor 4, a transmitter 5, and an apparatus body 10. Have.

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

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

  In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment, as the ultrasonic probe 1, a one-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are arranged in a row is connected to the apparatus main body 10. For example, the ultrasonic probe 1 is a sector probe that performs sector scanning, a convex probe that performs offset sector scanning, or the like. In the first embodiment, a two-dimensional scan of the subject P is performed by the ultrasonic probe 1.

  The position sensor 4 and the transmitter 5 are devices for acquiring position information of the ultrasonic probe 1. For example, the position sensor 4 is a magnetic sensor attached to the ultrasonic probe 1. Further, for example, the transmitter 5 is a device that is arranged at an arbitrary position and that forms a magnetic field outward from the device itself.

  The position sensor 4 detects a three-dimensional magnetic field formed by the transmitter 5. Then, the position sensor 4 calculates the position (coordinates and angle) of its own device in the space with the transmitter 5 as the origin based on the detected magnetic field information, and transmits the calculated position to the acquisition unit 14b described later. Here, the position sensor 4 transmits the three-dimensional coordinates and angle at which the self-device is located as the three-dimensional position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 to the acquisition unit 14b described later. For example, the position sensor 4 calculates the position information of the surface that passes through the center of its own device and is parallel to the mounting surface of the ultrasonic probe 1 as the three-dimensional position information of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  The input device 3 is connected to the device body 10 and includes a mouse, a keyboard, a button, a panel switch, a touch command screen, a foot switch, a trackball, and the like. The input device 3 accepts various setting requests from the operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and transfers the accepted various setting requests to the apparatus main body 10.

  For example, the operator can temporarily stop transmission / reception of ultrasonic waves by pressing a “Freeze button” of the input device 3.

  The monitor 2 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for an operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus to input various setting requests using the input device 3, and displays an ultrasonic image generated in the apparatus main body 10. To do. Specifically, the monitor 2 displays in-vivo morphological information and blood flow information as an image based on a video signal input from an image generation unit 14a described later. Note that when the “Freeze button” is pressed, the monitor 2 continuously displays the ultrasound image when the “Freeze button” is pressed. For example, an operator refers to an ultrasonic image displayed in a time-series manner, and when a desired ultrasonic image is displayed, the “Freeze button” is used to display the desired ultrasonic image as a still image. Press. The monitor 2 has a speaker for outputting sound.

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

  The transmission / reception unit 11 includes a pulse generator, a transmission delay unit, a pulser, and the like, and supplies a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 1. The pulse generator repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming transmission ultrasonic waves at a predetermined rate frequency. The transmission delay unit generates a delay time for each piezoelectric vibrator necessary for focusing the ultrasonic wave generated from the ultrasonic probe 1 into a beam and determining transmission directivity. Give for each rate pulse. The pulser applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to the ultrasonic probe 1 at a timing based on the rate pulse. That is, the transmission delay unit arbitrarily adjusts the transmission direction of the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the piezoelectric vibrator surface by changing the delay time given to each rate pulse.

  The transmission / reception unit 11 has a function capable of instantaneously changing a transmission frequency, a transmission drive voltage, and the like in order to execute a predetermined scan sequence based on an instruction from the control unit 16 described later. In particular, the change of the transmission drive voltage is realized by a linear amplifier type transmission circuit capable of instantaneously switching the value or a mechanism for electrically switching a plurality of power supply units.

  The transmission / reception unit 11 includes a preamplifier, an A / D (Analog / Digital) converter, a reception delay unit, an adder, and the like. The transmission / reception unit 11 performs various processing on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 1 and reflects it. Generate wave data. The preamplifier amplifies the reflected wave signal for each channel. The A / D converter A / D converts the amplified reflected wave signal. The reception delay unit gives a delay time necessary for determining the reception directivity. The adder performs an addition process on the reflected wave signal processed by the reception delay unit to generate reflected wave data. By the addition processing of the adder, the reflection component from the direction corresponding to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signal is emphasized, and a comprehensive beam for ultrasonic transmission / reception is formed by the reception directivity and the transmission directivity.

  The form of the output signal from the transmission / reception unit 11 can be selected from various forms such as a signal including phase information called an RF (Radio Frequency) signal or amplitude information after envelope detection processing. Is possible.

  The B mode processing unit 12 receives reflected wave data from the transmission / reception unit 11 and performs logarithmic amplification, envelope detection processing, and the like, and data in which the signal intensity of each scanning line is expressed by brightness (B mode data). Is generated.

  The Doppler processing unit 13 performs frequency analysis on velocity information from the reflected wave data received from the transmission / reception unit 11, extracts blood flow, tissue, and contrast agent echo components due to the Doppler effect, and blood flow information such as average velocity, dispersion, and power. Is generated for multiple points of each scanning line.

  The image processing unit 14 is a processing unit that generates an ultrasonic image and performs various image processing on the generated ultrasonic image. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the image generation unit 14 a and the acquisition unit 14 b. And a calculation unit 14c. The image generation unit 14a generates an ultrasonic image from the B mode data generated by the B mode processing unit 12 and the Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing unit 13, and the generated ultrasonic image is stored in an image memory 15 or an internal Store in the storage unit 17.

  That is, the image generation unit 14a generates a B-mode image in which the intensity of the reflected wave data is expressed by luminance from the B-mode data. Further, the image generation unit 14a generates a color Doppler image that displays the average blood flow velocity, the variance, the blood flow volume, and a combination thereof from the Doppler data so that they can be identified by color.

  Specifically, the image generation unit 14a converts (scan converts) a plurality of scanning line signal sequences of ultrasonic scanning into a scanning line signal sequence of a video format typified by a television or the like, and outputs an ultrasonic wave as a display image. An image (B-mode image or color Doppler image) is generated. More specifically, the image generation unit 14a generates an ultrasonic image for display by performing coordinate conversion according to the ultrasonic scanning mode by the ultrasonic probe 1. Note that the image generation unit 14a performs an interpolation process to generate an ultrasonic image for display in order to compensate for insufficient data in the scan line signal sequence after the scan conversion.

  In addition, the image generation unit 14a combines character information, scales, body marks, and the like of various parameters with the ultrasonic image. Further, the image generation unit 14a is equipped with a storage memory (not shown) for storing image data. For example, after diagnosis, an operator can call up an image recorded during examination.

  The acquisition unit 14b acquires position information of the ultrasonic probe 1. That is, the acquisition unit 14 b acquires the three-dimensional position (three-dimensional coordinates and angle) of the position sensor 4 transmitted by the position sensor 4 as position information of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  The calculation unit 14c is a processing unit that performs various measurement processes using the ultrasonic image generated by the image generation unit 14a. For example, the calculation unit 14c performs calculation processing in volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation. The processing of the calculation unit 14c will be described in detail later.

  The image memory 15 is a memory that stores data received from the B-mode processing unit 12 or the Doppler processing unit 13. The data stored in the image memory 15 can be called by an operator after diagnosis, for example, and becomes an ultrasonic image for display via the image generation unit 14a. This ultrasonic image can be reproduced as a still image or as a moving image using a plurality of images.

  The image memory 15 can also store an ultrasonic image generated by the image generation unit 14a. Such image data can also be reproduced as a still image or as a moving image using a plurality of images, for example, by an operator calling it from the image memory 15 after diagnosis. The image memory 15 can store the position information of the ultrasound probe 1 acquired by the acquisition unit 14b and the processing result of the calculation unit 14c.

  The internal storage unit 17 stores various data such as a control program for performing ultrasonic transmission / reception, image processing and display processing, diagnostic information (for example, patient ID, doctor's findings, etc.), diagnostic protocol, and various body marks. To do. The internal storage unit 17 is also used for storing image data stored in the image memory 15 as necessary. Various data stored in the internal storage unit 17 can be transferred to an external peripheral device via an interface unit (not shown).

  The control unit 16 is a control processor (CPU: Central Processing Unit) that realizes a function as an information processing apparatus (computer), and controls the entire processing in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. Specifically, the control unit 16 is based on various instructions and setting requests input from the operator via the input device 3, a program read from the internal storage unit 17 and various setting information, and the transmission / reception unit 11, B-mode processing The processing of the unit 12, the Doppler processing unit 13, and the image processing unit 14 is controlled. In addition, the control unit 16 controls the monitor 2 to display an ultrasonic image or the like stored in the internal storage unit 17 or the image memory 15.

  The overall configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment has been described above. In this configuration, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment measures the volume of an object such as a tumor depicted in an ultrasonic image by ellipsoid approximation. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an ellipsoid.

  An ellipsoid is a figure obtained by extending an ellipse into three dimensions, and is a figure that is symmetric with respect to the XY plane, the YZ plane, and the ZX plane. In the ellipsoid illustrated in FIG. 2, in the XY plane passing through the origin O, the X-axis diameter is the distance between X1 and X2, and the Y-axis diameter is the distance between Y1 and Y2. In the ellipsoid illustrated in FIG. 2, in the YZ plane and ZX plane passing through the origin O, the Z-axis diameter is the distance between Z1 and Z2.

  The origin O illustrated in FIG. 2 is a midpoint between X1 and X2, a midpoint between Y1 and Y2, and a midpoint between Z1 and Z2. The volume of the ellipsoid illustrated in FIG. 2 is expressed as “a” as the distance between the origins O and X1, “b” as the distance between the origins O and Y1, and “c” as the distance between the origins O and Z1. (4/3) × π × (a × b × c) ”.

  In volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation using an ultrasonic image, it is necessary to set three orthogonal axes on the object. Conventionally, an operator refers to an ultrasonic image in which one cross section of an object is drawn, sets two axes, and then moves the ultrasonic probe 1 to be orthogonal to the cross section set with two axes. An ultrasonic image in which the object is cut in a cross section is displayed. Then, the operator sets the third axis on the ultrasonic image determined to be a cross section orthogonal to the cross section where the two axes are set. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining volume measurement by conventional ellipsoid approximation. In the following description, it is assumed that the first set axis is the X axis, the second set axis is the Y axis, and the third set axis is the Z axis.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the operator operates the ultrasonic probe 1 to make two points X1 and X2 on the X-axis in an ultrasonic image that is an XY plane of the object. And two points Y1 and Y2 are set on the Y axis. Thereby, for example, the X-axis diameter and the Y-axis diameter are measured by the calculation unit 14c.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, the operator scans the YZ plane orthogonal to the XY plane by rotating the ultrasonic probe 1 by 90 degrees on the contact surface. The operator refers to the ultrasonic image determined to be the YZ plane and sets two points, Z1 and Z2, on the Z axis. Thereby, for example, the diameter of the Z axis is measured by the calculation unit 14c, and the volume when the object is approximated by an ellipsoid is measured.

  Here, for example, when the X-axis diameter and the Y-axis diameter are measured by bringing the ultrasonic probe 1 into contact with the ribs, it may be difficult to rotate the ultrasonic probe 1 due to a disorder such as a bone. is there. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3C, the operator measures the Z-axis diameter by moving the ultrasonic probe 1 to another position and bringing it into contact with the body surface of the subject P. An ultrasonic image for displaying is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 3C, the operator sets two points, Z1 and Z2, with reference to the ultrasonic image determined to be the ZX plane.

  However, in the conventional measurement method described above, the cross section on which the third axis (Z axis) is set is determined by subjective judgment by the operator. For this reason, in the conventional measurement method, the cross section where the third axis is set may not be accurately orthogonal to the first axis (X axis) and the second axis (Y axis). Further, in the conventional measurement method, it is necessary to once release the ultrasonic probe 1 due to an obstacle such as a bone and search for the position of the cross section where the third axis is drawn. However, such a procedure is difficult for the operator. Work. Furthermore, the straight line connecting the two points set to measure the diameter of the third axis measures the diameter of the second axis and the straight line connecting the two points set to measure the diameter of the first axis. In some cases, the line does not pass through the intersection with the line connecting the two points set.

  Thus, in the conventional measurement method, since it is difficult to set an accurate third axis, the accuracy of volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation may be reduced. Therefore, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment, processing of the acquisition unit 14b, the calculation unit 14c, and the control unit 16 described below is performed in order to improve the accuracy of volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation.

  The acquisition unit 14b acquires the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 as described above. As an example, the acquisition unit 14b sets the “position information of a surface passing through the center of the position sensor 4 and parallel to the mounting surface of the ultrasonic probe 1” as “three-dimensional position information of the ultrasonic probe 1” from the position sensor 4. get. The acquisition unit 14b stores the acquired information in the image memory 15, for example.

  The calculation unit 14 c calculates position information of an ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 by scanning the ultrasonic probe 1 from the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1. Specifically, the calculation unit 14c calculates coordinates at which the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 is located in a three-dimensional coordinate system used by the position sensor 4 for position calculation. In the following description, the “three-dimensional coordinate system used by the position sensor 4 for position calculation” is abbreviated as “three-dimensional coordinate system”. For such calculation, for example, the internal storage unit 17 stores offset information illustrated in FIG. 4 in advance. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the offset information.

  The offset information is prepared for each type of the ultrasonic probe 1, for example. The offset information shown in FIG. 4A is an example of offset information used when the ultrasonic probe 1 is a sector probe. Further, the offset information shown in FIG. 4B is an example of offset information used when the ultrasonic probe 1 is a convex probe.

  The distance “L11” and the distance “L12” illustrated in FIG. 4A are values indicating positions where the position sensor 4 is attached to the ultrasonic probe 1 that is a sector probe. As shown in FIG. 4A, the distance “L11” is defined as “a plane that passes through the center of the position sensor 4 and is parallel to the mounting surface of the ultrasonic probe 1” and “the ultrasonic probe 1 It is the distance from the surface 101 which is “the surface passing through the center and parallel to the surface 100”. Further, as shown in FIG. 4A, the distance “L12” includes a surface 102 that is “a plane passing through the center of the position sensor 4 and orthogonal to the surface 100”, and “the ultrasonic probe 1 is in the subject P. This is the distance from the surface 103 which is the “surface that is in contact with the body surface”. In the case illustrated in FIG. 4A, the position sensor 4 is attached to the left side of the ultrasonic probe 1, but such information is also stored in advance as offset information.

  Further, when the ultrasonic probe 1 that is a sector probe is used, as shown in FIG. 4A, an ultrasonic image 104 is generated and displayed by performing ultrasonic scanning with a sector-type scanning shape. When the ultrasound probe 1 that is a sector probe is used, the upper end of the displayed ultrasound image 104 and the tip of the ultrasound probe 1 substantially coincide. In order to calculate the position information of the ultrasonic image, the distance between the upper end of the displayed ultrasonic image 104 and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1 is necessary. For this reason, the fact that the distance between the upper end of the ultrasonic image and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1 is “0” is stored in advance as offset information. Note that the shape of the ultrasonic image 104 can be acquired from control information that the control unit 16 has performed on the transmission / reception unit 11, the B-mode processing unit 12, the Doppler processing unit 13, and the image generation unit 14a.

  Further, the distance “L21” and the distance “L22” illustrated in FIG. 4B are values indicating positions where the position sensor 4 is attached to the ultrasonic probe 1 that is a convex probe. As shown in FIG. 4B, the distance “L21” is a surface 200 that is “a plane that passes through the center of the position sensor 4 and is parallel to the mounting surface of the ultrasonic probe 1”, and “the ultrasonic probe 1 It is the distance from the surface 201 which is “a surface passing through the center and parallel to the plane 200”. Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, the distance “L22” includes a surface 202 that is “a plane passing through the center of the position sensor 4 and orthogonal to the surface 200”, and “the ultrasonic probe 1 is in the subject P. It is the distance from the surface 203 which is the “surface that is in contact with the body surface”. In the case illustrated in FIG. 4B, the position sensor 4 is attached to the left side of the ultrasonic probe 1, but such information is also stored in advance as offset information.

  When the ultrasonic probe 1 that is a convex probe is used, as shown in FIG. 4B, an ultrasonic image 204 is generated and displayed by performing ultrasonic scanning with an offset sector type scanning shape. . When the ultrasonic probe 1 that is a convex probe is used, the fan-shaped main portion is not displayed, and therefore, the upper end of the displayed ultrasonic image 204 is positioned below the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1. In the case illustrated in FIG. 4B, the upper end of the ultrasonic image 204 is positioned lower than the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1 by a distance “L23”. In order to calculate the position information of the ultrasonic image, the distance between the upper end of the displayed ultrasonic image 204 and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1 is necessary. Therefore, the distance “L23” is also stored in advance as offset information. The Note that the shape of the ultrasonic image 204 can be acquired from control information that the control unit 16 has performed on the transmission / reception unit 11, the B-mode processing unit 12, the Doppler processing unit 13, and the image generation unit 14a.

  The calculation unit 14c calculates the position information of the ultrasound image from the position information of the ultrasound probe 1 acquired by the acquisition unit 14b and the offset information described above. For example, the calculation unit 14c can calculate the position information of the scanning section performed by the ultrasonic probe 1 using the distance “L11” and the distance “L12”, the distance “L21”, and the distance “L22”. . Furthermore, the calculation unit 14c can calculate the position information in the three-dimensional coordinate system of the displayed ultrasonic image using the position information of the scanning section and the distance between the upper end of the image and the probe tip.

  In the calculation unit 14c having such a function, an operator who performs volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation sets two axes for an object to be measured drawn in the ultrasonic image with reference to the ultrasonic image. If so, the following processing is performed. That is, the calculation unit 14c acquires, from the image memory 15, position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the time of reception of the reflected wave used for generating an ultrasonic image in which two axes are set on the object to be measured. To do. Based on the acquired position information of the ultrasonic probe 1, the calculation unit 14c calculates the position of the orthogonal axis that passes through the set intersection of the two axes and is orthogonal to the two axes. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing of the calculation unit according to the first embodiment.

  For example, the operator who refers to the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 while operating the ultrasonic probe 1 presses the “Freeze button” when the optimal ultrasonic image for setting two axes is displayed. Press. Then, for example, the operator starts volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation by pressing “volume measurement” from the displayed measurement item where the “measurement menu” on the touch command screen is pressed. Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the operator sets two points X1 and X2 in the ultrasonic image 300 in order to measure the diameter of the X axis. Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the operator sets two points Y1 and Y2 in the ultrasonic image 300 in order to measure the diameter of the Y axis. Thereby, the calculation unit 14c calculates the diameter of the X axis and the diameter of the Y axis.

  The calculating unit 14c calculates orthogonal axis position information, that is, Z-axis position information. First, as shown in FIG. 5B, the calculation unit 14c calculates the position of the intersection of a straight line connecting X1 and X2 and a straight line connecting Y1 and Y2. Specifically, the calculation unit 14 c calculates the position of the biaxial intersection in the ultrasound image 300. Then, the calculation unit 14c uses the position information and offset information of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image 300 to determine the position of the biaxial intersection in the ultrasonic image 300. Convert to coordinates in 3D coordinate system.

  Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the calculation unit 14c calculates the Z-axis direction by calculating an outer product of the vector X1X2 and the vector Y1Y2 as illustrated in FIG. More specifically, the calculating unit 14c calculates the Z-axis direction in the three-dimensional coordinate system by calculating the outer product of the vector X1X2 and the vector Y1Y2 in the three-dimensional coordinate system. Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the position information of the Z axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system from the coordinates of the intersection point in the three-dimensional coordinate system and the Z-axis direction in the three-dimensional coordinate system. The Z-axis position information in the three-dimensional coordinate system is stored in the image memory 15, for example.

  The control unit 16 illustrated in FIG. 1 performs control so that orthogonal axis position information regarding the position of the orthogonal axis is displayed on the monitor 2. Here, after setting the two axes, the operator presses the “Freeze button” again to search the ultrasonic image in which the orthogonal axes are drawn, and releases the Freeze state. Then, the operator starts operations such as rotation, movement, and turning of the ultrasonic probe 1. The control unit 16 detects that the Freeze state has been released, and causes the monitor 2 to display orthogonal axis position information.

  In order to display the orthogonal axis position information, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the orthogonal axis is included in the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 after the two axes are set. Here, “the ultrasonic image includes an orthogonal axis” means “the ultrasonic image includes the entire orthogonal axis”, and “the ultrasonic image and the orthogonal axis intersect at a plurality of points”. It is. Further, “the ultrasound image does not include an orthogonal axis” means “the ultrasound image and the orthogonal axis intersect at one point” or “the ultrasound image and the orthogonal axis do not intersect”. .

  In order to make such a determination, the control unit 16 causes the calculation unit 14c to execute a positional relationship calculation process described below. That is, the calculation unit 14c further determines the position of the orthogonal axis with respect to the ultrasonic image based on the positional information of the ultrasonic probe 1 when receiving the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2. Calculate the relationship.

  The acquisition unit 14b continuously acquires the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 to be moved. The calculation unit 14c calculates position information in the three-dimensional coordinate system of the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 from the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 sequentially acquired by the acquisition unit 14b. Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the positional relationship described above from the position information of the ultrasonic image in the three-dimensional coordinate system and the position information of the Z axis in the calculated three-dimensional coordinate system.

  When it is determined from the positional relationship that the orthogonal image is not included in the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 after the two axes are set, the control unit 16 performs the following control. That is, the control unit 16 outputs information for guiding the operation method of the ultrasonic probe 1 necessary for scanning the cross section including the orthogonal axis based on the positional relationship as the orthogonal axis position information. Control. In other words, when the cross section including the entire Z axis is not scanned, the control unit 16 causes the monitor 2 to display a guide for performing the cross section scan including the entire Z axis. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of guide display control of the control unit according to the first embodiment.

  For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6A, the control unit 16 causes the image generation unit 14 a to generate a schematic diagram for guide based on the positional relationship. The schematic diagram shown in FIG. 6A is a positional relationship calculated by the calculation unit 14c with respect to three axes (X axis, Y axis, and Z axis) and a figure that schematically shows the displayed ultrasonic image. It is the figure arrange | positioned in the position which reflected. The control unit 16 displays a schematic diagram for guide corresponding to the ultrasonic image beside the ultrasonic image currently displayed on the monitor 2. The operator can grasp the operation required to display the cross section including the Z axis by referring to the schematic diagram for guide. Note that the schematic diagram for guide illustrated in FIG. 6A is sequentially updated each time the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 is moved.

  Alternatively, for example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the control unit 16 displays a guide based on the positional relationship with characters. In the example shown in FIG. 6B, the image generation unit 14a controls the control unit 16 based on the positional relationship calculated by the calculation unit 14c, and the character string image “Please rotate 15 degrees clockwise”. Is generated. And the control part 16 displays the image of a character string beside the ultrasonic image currently displayed on the monitor 2 at this time. The guide character string image illustrated in FIG. 6B is sequentially updated each time the position of the ultrasonic probe 1 is moved. Further, the control unit 16 may generate voice data “Please rotate 15 degrees clockwise” and output the generated voice data from the speaker of the monitor 2.

  On the other hand, when it is determined from the positional relationship that the orthogonal image is included in the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 after the two axes are set, the control unit 16 superimposes the orthogonal axis on the ultrasonic image. Control is performed to display the composite image as orthogonal axis position information. That is, when the cross section including the entire Z axis is scanned, the control unit 16 displays a guideline indicating the position of the Z axis on the ultrasonic image. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of guideline display control of the control unit according to the first embodiment.

  For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the control unit 16 causes the image generation unit 14 a to generate a composite image in which a Z-axis guideline in which the position of the Z axis is indicated by a dotted line is superimposed on the ultrasound image 400 including the entire Z axis. . Then, the control unit 16 causes the monitor 2 to display the composite image illustrated in FIG. Since the Z-axis guideline is displayed, the operator presses the “Freeze button” again, and refers to the guideline to set two points, Z1 and Z2, in the ultrasonic image 400. Thereby, the calculation part 14c measures the diameter of a Z-axis, and calculates the volume at the time of approximating a target object with an ellipsoid. The calculation result is displayed on the monitor 2, for example, under the control of the control unit 16.

  Next, an example of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the following flowchart, description will be made assuming that the acquisition unit 14b has started acquiring the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  As illustrated in FIG. 8, the control unit 16 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment determines whether the Freeze button has been pressed and settings for the X axis and the Y axis have been accepted (step S <b> 101). If the Freeze button is not pressed and the X and Y axes are not set (No at Step S101), the control unit 16 waits until the Freeze button is pressed and the X and Y axes are set.

  On the other hand, when the Freeze button is pressed and the setting of the X axis and the Y axis is accepted (Yes at Step S101), the calculation unit 14c calculates the diameters of the X axis and the Y axis (Step S102). In the processing example illustrated in FIG. 8, the acquisition unit 14 b temporarily stops the acquisition of the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 when the Freeze state is entered.

  Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the Z-axis position (spatial position) from the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 when the Freeze button is acquired, which is acquired by the acquisition unit 14b (step S103). Then, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the Freeze button is pressed again and the Freeze state is released (Step S104). Here, when the Freeze state is not released (No at Step S104), the control unit 16 waits until the Freeze state is released.

  On the other hand, when the Freeze state is canceled (Yes at Step S104), the acquisition unit 14b resumes acquisition of the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 (Step S105). Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the positional relationship of the Z axis with respect to the displayed ultrasonic image (step S106). And the control part 16 determines whether the displayed ultrasonic image is a cross section containing a Z-axis from a positional relationship (step S107). If the cross section does not include the Z axis (No at Step S107), the monitor 2 displays a scanning guide under the control of the control unit 16 (Step S108). Then, under the control of the control unit 16, the calculation unit 14c performs a positional relationship calculation process in step S106.

  On the other hand, if the cross section includes the Z-axis (Yes at Step S107), the control unit 16 controls the monitor 2 to display a composite image of the displayed ultrasonic image and the Z-axis guideline (Step S109). .

  And the control part 16 determines whether the setting of the Z-axis was received (step S110). Here, when the setting of the Z axis is not accepted (No at Step S110), the control unit 16 waits until the setting of the Z axis is accepted.

  On the other hand, when the setting of the Z axis is accepted (Yes at Step S110), the calculation unit 14c measures the diameter of the Z axis, calculates the volume (Step S111), and ends the process.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 is used to convert the position of an arbitrary point on the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 into a position in the real space. The position of the Z axis in the real space is automatically calculated by using the function of the calculating unit 14c capable of performing the above. Then, the positional relationship between the ultrasonic image displayed at the present time and the Z axis is calculated using the positional information of the ultrasonic probe 1 that is moved by the operator to search for the Z axis. In the first embodiment, the position information is used to display a guide for scanning a cross section including the Z axis and a guideline for measuring the diameter of the Z axis.

  By referring to the guide and the guideline displayed as the orthogonal axis position information in the first embodiment, the operator can grasp the objectively determined position of the Z axis. That is, the operator can operate the ultrasonic probe 1 with reference to the guide, and further, by referring to the guideline, both ends of the object on the guideline can accurately measure the Z-axis diameter. It can be confirmed that there are two points. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the accuracy of volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation can be improved.

(Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, a case where the diameter of the orthogonal axis (Z-axis) is measured without scanning a cross section including the entire orthogonal axis will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the second embodiment.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment is configured similarly to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. Here, in the first embodiment, after two axes (X axis and Y axis) are set, the operator performs operations such as rotation, movement, and turning of the ultrasonic probe 1. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 1 is brought into contact with the body surface of the subject P at the same position as the operation performed by the operator after the two axes (X axis and Y axis) are set. “Turn” in a tilted state. Also in the second embodiment, the acquisition unit 14b acquires the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 as in the first embodiment, and the calculation unit 14c calculates the position of the orthogonal axis. In addition, after setting the two axes, the acquisition unit 14b acquires the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 as in the first embodiment.

  In a state where the ultrasonic probe 1 is “turned”, the calculation unit 14c according to the second embodiment uses the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 sequentially acquired by the acquisition unit 14b, as in the first embodiment. Then, the positional relationship of the orthogonal axes with respect to the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 is calculated. In other words, the calculation unit 14c performs three-dimensional analysis based on the position information in the three-dimensional coordinate system of the ultrasonic image calculated from the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the position information on the Z axis in the calculated three-dimensional coordinate system. The positional relationship of the Z axis with respect to the ultrasonic image in the coordinate system is calculated.

  And the control part 16 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment is the intersection of the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2, and the orthogonal axis | shaft in the state in which "turning" of the ultrasonic probe 1 is performed after two axes are set. Are controlled so as to be superimposed on the ultrasonic image at a position based on the positional relationship.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the operator sets the X axis and the Y axis in the ultrasonic image 300 corresponding to the set cross section of the X axis and the Y axis, and then moves the ultrasonic probe 1 at various angles. Tilt. The ultrasonic image displayed by such an operation intersects the Z axis at one point. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the calculation unit 14c controls the two-dimensional coordinate system in the ultrasonic image that is a cross-sectional image based on the positional relationship of the orthogonal axes with respect to the ultrasonic image in the three-dimensional coordinate system. The coordinates of the point (intersection) where the ultrasonic image intersects the Z axis are calculated.

  Then, under the control of the control unit 16, the image generation unit 14a generates a composite image in which the intersection is superimposed on the ultrasonic image, and the monitor 2 displays the composite image. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 9, the operator can visually recognize the position of the intersection point in the object drawn in the ultrasonic image. In FIG. 9, the scanning section of the ultrasonic probe 1 is indicated by a solid line or a dotted line extending from the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1. FIG. 9 shows that an ultrasonic image corresponding to a scanning section indicated by a solid line or a dotted line is generated from an offset sector type scanning shape.

  And the calculation part 14c which concerns on 2nd Embodiment is predetermined | prescribed in the target object by which the position of the intersection of the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor 2 and an orthogonal axis (Z-axis) is drawn on the said ultrasonic image. Based on the position information of the ultrasonic probe at the time of the position, the diameter of the orthogonal axis (Z axis) in the object is calculated.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the operator confirms that the position of the intersection is located at the lowermost part of the object in the ultrasonic image 301 displayed by tilting the ultrasonic probe 1 in one direction. And press the Freeze button. That is, the operator determines that the position of the intersection point in the ultrasonic image 301 is one of the two end points for measuring the Z-axis diameter because the position of the intersection point is located at the lowest part of the object. To do.

  From the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image 301, the calculation unit 14c calculates the inclination “of the ultrasonic probe 1 in the three-dimensional coordinate system” as shown in FIG. θ1 ”and the distance“ l1 ”between the intersection of the ultrasonic image 301 in the three-dimensional coordinate system and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1 are calculated.

  Then, the operator cancels the Freeze state and tilts the ultrasonic probe 1 in the opposite direction. Then, as shown in FIG. 9, the operator confirms that the position of the intersection is located at the lowermost part of the object in the ultrasonic image 302 displayed by tilting the ultrasonic probe 1 in the opposite direction. And press the Freeze button. That is, since the position of the intersection point is located at the lowermost part of the target object, the position of the intersection point in the ultrasonic image 302 is one of the remaining two end points for measuring the diameter of the Z axis. Judge.

  From the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image 302, the calculation unit 14c calculates the inclination “of the ultrasonic probe 1 in the three-dimensional coordinate system” as shown in FIG. θ2 ”and the distance“ l2 ”between the intersection of the ultrasonic image 301 in the three-dimensional coordinate system and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 1 are calculated. And the calculation part 14c calculates the diameter of a Z-axis by the following formula | equation (1).

  And the calculation part 14c calculates the volume of a target object using the diameter of the Z-axis calculated by Formula (1). Note that the operator can redo the selection of the ultrasonic image 301 and the ultrasonic image 302 by pressing a reset button, for example. The calculation of “θ1” and “l1” and the calculation of “θ2” and “l2” may be performed simultaneously after the ultrasonic image 301 and the ultrasonic image 302 are determined.

  Further, for example, when the object has a flat shape in the Y-axis direction, the ultrasonic image that is determined to be two points on both ends of the Z-axis is an image in which the intersection is displayed, but the object can be cut off. You can also

  Next, an example of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. In the following flowchart, description will be made assuming that the acquisition unit 14b has started acquiring the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1. Hereinafter, the volume measurement mode performed in the second embodiment will be referred to as “tilt measurement mode”.

  As illustrated in FIG. 10, the control unit 16 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment determines whether the Freeze button has been pressed and settings for the X axis and the Y axis have been accepted (step S <b> 201). If the Freeze button is not pressed and the X and Y axes are not set (No at Step S201), the control unit 16 waits until the Freeze button is pressed and the X and Y axes are set.

  On the other hand, when the Freeze button is pressed and the setting of the X axis and the Y axis is accepted (Yes at Step S201), the calculation unit 14c calculates the diameters of the X axis and the Y axis (Step S202). In the processing example illustrated in FIG. 10, the acquisition unit 14 b temporarily stops the acquisition of the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 when the Freeze state is entered.

  Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the Z-axis position (spatial position) from the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 when the Freeze button is acquired, which is acquired by the acquisition unit 14b (step S203). Then, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the Freeze button is pressed again, the Freeze state is released, and a start request for the tilt measurement mode has been received (Step S204). Here, when the inclination measurement mode start request is not accepted (No at Step S204), the control unit 16 waits until the inclination measurement mode start request is accepted.

  On the other hand, when the inclination measurement mode start request is received (Yes at Step S204), the acquisition unit 14b resumes acquisition of the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 (Step S205). Then, the calculation unit 14c calculates the positional relationship of the Z axis with respect to the displayed ultrasonic image (step S206). Under the control of the control unit 16, the monitor 2 displays a composite image in which the intersection of the Z axis is superimposed on the displayed ultrasonic image (step S207).

  Then, the control unit 16 determines whether or not two ultrasonic images for calculating the diameter of the Z axis have been designated (step S208). Here, when two ultrasonic images are not designated (No at Step S208), the calculation unit 14c performs the positional relationship calculation process at Step S206 under the control of the control unit 16.

  On the other hand, when two ultrasonic images are designated (Yes at Step S208), the calculation unit 14c calculates the diameter of the Z axis, calculates the volume (Step S209), and ends the process.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, two ultrasonic images for an operator to measure the diameter of the Z axis by referring to the position of the intersection of the object drawn in the ultrasonic image and the orthogonal axis. It is possible to automatically calculate an accurate Z-axis diameter simply by selecting. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the operator can easily perform highly accurate volume measurement.

  Here, the case where the position of the object at the intersection is determined by the operator has been described. However, in the second embodiment, for example, the control unit 16 estimates the range of the object in the ultrasonic image to be updated and displayed using the luminance value of the intersection point in the ultrasonic image 300 and the pixels around the intersection point. In this case, the position of the intersection point in the object may be automatically determined. In such a case, the volume measurement of the object is automatically performed only by the operator performing an operation of tilting the ultrasonic probe 1.

  In the first and second embodiments, the case where the calculation unit 14c calculates the diameter and volume of the three axes has been described. However, the processing unit that performs measurement processing other than the calculation unit 14c has three axes. The diameter and volume may be calculated. In the first and second embodiments, the case where the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 is three-dimensional has been described. However, if the operation of the ultrasonic probe 1 is limited to the rotation operation, the position information of the ultrasonic probe 1 may be two-dimensional position information in the arrangement direction of the transducers.

  In the first and second embodiments, each component of each illustrated device is functionally conceptual and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution / integration of each device is not limited to the one shown in the figure, and all or a part of the distribution / integration is functionally or physically distributed in arbitrary units according to various loads or usage conditions. Can be integrated and configured. Further, all or a part of each processing function performed in each device may be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware by wired logic.

  The image processing methods described in the first and second embodiments can be realized by executing a prepared image processing program on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This image processing program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. The image processing program can also be executed by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, an MO, or a DVD, and being read from the recording medium by the computer. .

  As described above, according to the first and second embodiments, the accuracy of volume measurement by ellipsoid approximation can be improved.

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

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic probe 2 Monitor 3 Input device 10 Apparatus main body 11 Transmission / reception part 12 B mode processing part 13 Doppler processing part 14 Image processing part 14a Image generation part 14b Acquisition part 14c Calculation part 15 Image memory 16 Control part 17 Internal storage part

Claims (6)

An acquisition unit for acquiring position information of the ultrasonic probe;
Based on the position information of the ultrasonic probe at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image in which two axes are set on the object to be measured, the intersection of the two axes, and A calculation unit for calculating a position of an orthogonal axis orthogonal to the two axes;
A control unit that controls the orthogonal axis position information related to the position of the orthogonal axis to be displayed on a predetermined display unit;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: The calculation unit further includes the orthogonal axis with respect to the ultrasonic image based on positional information of the ultrasonic probe at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image displayed on the predetermined display unit. To calculate the positional relationship of
When the control unit determines that the orthogonal axis is included in the ultrasonic image displayed on the predetermined display unit after the two axes are set, the control unit is orthogonal to the ultrasonic image. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a control is performed so that a composite image in which axes are superimposed is displayed as the orthogonal axis position information.   When the control unit determines from the positional relationship that the orthogonal axis is not included in the ultrasound image displayed on the predetermined display unit after the two axes are set, based on the positional relationship 3. The control for outputting information for guiding an operation method of the ultrasonic probe required for scanning a cross section including the orthogonal axis as the orthogonal axis position information. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus as described. The calculation unit further includes the orthogonal axis with respect to the ultrasonic image based on positional information of the ultrasonic probe at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image displayed on the predetermined display unit. To calculate the positional relationship of
The control unit is configured such that the ultrasonic image displayed on the predetermined display unit and the orthogonal axis are tilted while the ultrasonic probe is in contact with the same position after the two axes are set. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the intersection is controlled to be superimposed and displayed on the ultrasonic image at a position based on the positional relationship.   The calculation unit is configured such that the position of the intersection between the ultrasonic image displayed on the predetermined display unit and the orthogonal axis becomes a predetermined position in the object depicted in the ultrasonic image. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the diameter of the orthogonal axis of the object is calculated based on position information of the ultrasonic probe. An acquisition procedure for acquiring the position information of the ultrasonic probe;
Based on the position information of the ultrasonic probe at the time of reception of the reflected wave used to generate the ultrasonic image in which two axes are set on the object to be measured, the intersection of the two axes, and A calculation procedure for calculating a position of an orthogonal axis orthogonal to the two axes;
A control procedure for controlling the orthogonal axis position information related to the position of the orthogonal axis to be displayed on a predetermined display unit;
An image processing program for causing a computer to execute.

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