JP2016067399A - Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide ultrasonic diagnostic equipment by which the number of measurement values, a variation degree, etc. can be known.SOLUTION: Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment includes: transmission control part for controlling the transmission of an ultrasonic push pulse for a biological tissue of a subject, and the transmission of an ultrasonic pulse for detection for detecting a shear elastic wave generated in the biological tissue by the push pulse; a measurement value calculation part for calculating a propagation velocity Vs of the shear elastic wave based on an echo signal by the ultrasonic pulse for detection; and an image display control part for causing a table T of a plurality of propagation velocities Vs in the same part of the subject to be displayed in a display part 6 in which every time a propagation velocity Vs is newly calculated by the measurement value calculation part, the propagation velocity Vs is added to the table T and displayed, updating the table T.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that measures the elasticity of a living tissue by transmitting an ultrasonic push pulse.

  An elastic measurement technique is known in which the elasticity of a living tissue is measured by transmitting an ultrasonic pulse (push pulse) having a high sound pressure from the ultrasound probe to the living tissue (see, for example, Patent Document 1). More specifically, a shear elastic wave generated in the living tissue by the push pulse is detected by the ultrasonic detecting pulse, and a measurement value related to the elasticity of the living tissue is used as a propagation value of the shear elastic wave or the living tissue. The elasticity value is calculated.

JP2012-100997A

  By the way, the measurement value relating to the elasticity of the living tissue may not accurately reflect the elasticity of the living tissue. For this reason, in order to obtain a measurement value with higher reliability, a plurality of measurements may be performed, and the median value may be displayed.

  However, the user of the device is not sure how many times the measurement has been performed at the present time when the measurement is being performed. In addition, the user of the apparatus may want to know the degree of variation of each of the plurality of measurement values.

  One aspect of the invention made to solve the above-described problem is to transmit an ultrasonic push pulse to a living tissue of a subject and to detect a shear elastic wave generated in the living tissue by the push pulse. A transmission control unit that controls transmission of the ultrasonic pulse for detection; a measurement value calculation unit that calculates a measurement value related to elasticity of the living tissue based on an echo signal from the ultrasonic pulse for detection; A display control unit that displays a list of a plurality of measurement values in the same part on a display unit, wherein an echo signal from the ultrasonic pulse for detection is acquired, and the measurement value is newly calculated by the measurement value calculation unit. And a display control unit that updates the list each time.

  According to the first aspect of the invention, the list is updated each time an echo signal from the detection ultrasonic pulse is acquired and the measurement value is newly calculated, so the number of measurement values, the degree of variation, etc. Can know.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that is an example of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an echo data processing part. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a display process part. It is a figure which shows the display part on which the synthesized image and list which have an elasticity image were displayed. It is a flowchart which shows the effect | action of 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display part by which the region of interest was set to the B mode image. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of two points | pieces in a biological tissue. It is a figure which shows the waveform of the time change of the displacement of the biological tissue in one point of two points shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the waveform of the time change of the displacement of the biological tissue in the other point of the two points shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the other example of the waveform of the time change of the displacement of the biological tissue in the other point of the two points shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the display part on which the synthesized image and list which have an elasticity image were displayed. It is a figure which shows the display part of the state by which the display of the list was updated. It is a figure which shows the display part of the state by which five propagation speeds and evaluation values were displayed on the list. In the 1st modification of 1st embodiment, it is a figure which shows the display part by which the list which a display form differs according to an evaluation value was displayed. In the 2nd modification of 1st embodiment, it is a figure which shows the display part by which the list which arranged the propagation speed, the evaluation value, and the frame number in order with the high evaluation value was displayed. It is a figure explaining the instruction | indication by a cursor in the 3rd modification of 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the state from which the display of the propagation speed instruct | indicated with the cursor, the evaluation value, and the frame number was erase | eliminated in the 3rd modification of 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the effect | action of 2nd embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display part on which the synthesized image and the list were displayed in 2nd embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the effect | action of 3rd embodiment. It is a figure which shows a display part in case the measurement value regarding the elasticity about the measurement point in the one part area | region in a region of interest is calculated. It is a figure which shows a display part in case the measured value regarding the elasticity about an interested part is calculated.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described.
(First embodiment)
First, the first embodiment will be described. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes an ultrasonic probe 2, a transmission / reception beam former 3, an echo data processing unit 4, a display processing unit 5, a display unit 6, an operation unit 7, a control unit 8, and a storage unit 9.

  The ultrasonic probe 2 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers (not shown) arranged in an array, and transmits ultrasonic waves to the subject through the ultrasonic transducers, and echo signals thereof. Receive. The ultrasonic probe 2 transmits an ultrasonic pulse (push pulse) for generating a shear elastic wave in the living tissue. The ultrasonic probe 2 transmits a detection ultrasonic pulse for detecting a shear elastic wave and receives an echo signal thereof.

  The ultrasonic probe 2 transmits an ultrasonic pulse for an image for creating a B-mode image, and receives an echo signal thereof.

  The transmission / reception beamformer 3 drives the ultrasonic probe 2 based on a control signal from the control unit 8 to transmit the various ultrasonic pulses having predetermined transmission parameters (transmission control function). ). The transmission / reception beamformer 3 performs signal processing such as phasing addition processing on the ultrasonic echo signal. The transmission / reception beamformer 3 and the control unit 8 are an example of an embodiment of a transmission control unit in the present invention. The transmission control function is an example of an embodiment of the transmission control function in the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the echo data processing unit 4 includes a B mode processing unit 41, a measurement value calculation unit 42, an evaluation value calculation unit 43, and a statistical value calculation unit 44. The B-mode processing unit 41 performs B-mode processing such as logarithmic compression processing and envelope detection processing on the echo data output from the transmission / reception beamformer 3 to create B-mode data.

  The measurement value calculation unit 42 calculates a measurement value related to the elasticity of the living tissue to which the push pulse has been transmitted, based on the echo data output from the transmission / reception beamformer 3. Specifically, the measurement value calculation unit 42 calculates the propagation velocity of the shear elastic wave as the measurement value. More specifically, the measurement value calculation unit 42 calculates the propagation velocity of the shear elastic wave detected in the echo signal by the detection ultrasonic pulse.

  In addition, the measurement value calculation unit 42 may calculate an elastic value (Young's modulus (Pa: Pascal)) of the living tissue as the measurement value based on the propagation speed.

  The measurement value calculation unit 42 is an example of an embodiment of a measurement value calculation unit in the present invention. The measurement value calculation function by the measurement value calculation function is an example of an embodiment of the measurement value calculation function in the present invention.

  Incidentally, only the propagation velocity is calculated, and the elasticity value is not necessarily calculated. The propagation velocity data or the elasticity value data is referred to as elasticity data.

  The evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates an evaluation value indicating the degree to which at least one of the propagation speed and the elasticity value accurately reflects the elasticity of the living tissue. Details will be described later. The evaluation value calculation unit 43 is an example of an embodiment of the evaluation value calculation unit in the present invention.

  The statistical value calculation unit 44 calculates at least one statistical value of the propagation velocity and the elasticity value. The statistical value includes an average value, a median value, a dispersion degree and the like. The spread degree is a standard deviation, variance or coefficient of variation.

  The display processing unit 5 includes an image display control unit 51 and a region setting unit 52 as shown in FIG. The image display control unit 51 scan-converts the B-mode data with a scan converter to create B-mode image data, and causes the display unit 6 to display a B-mode image based on the B-mode image data. . The image display control unit 51 scans the elasticity data with a scan converter to create elasticity image data, and causes the display unit 6 to display an elasticity image based on the elasticity image data.

  In this example, as shown in FIG. 4, the elastic image EI is a two-dimensional image displayed in the region of interest R set in the B-mode image BI. The elasticity image EI is a color image having a color corresponding to the propagation speed or the elasticity value. The image display control unit 51 generates composite image data by combining the B-mode image data and the elastic image data, and causes the display unit 6 to display a composite image CI based on the composite image data. This composite image CI is an image in which the elastic image EI is displayed in the region of interest R set in the B-mode image BI. The elastic image EI is a translucent image through which the background B-mode image BI is transmitted.

  The image display control unit 51 displays a list T together with the composite image CI on the display unit. In this example, this list T includes the propagation speed and an evaluation value of the propagation speed. Details will be described later. The list T is an example of a list embodiment in the present invention. The image display control unit 51 is an example of an embodiment of a display control unit in the present invention. The function of the image display control unit 51 is an example of the embodiment of the display control function in the present invention.

  The region of interest R is set by the region setting unit 52. More specifically, the region setting unit 52 sets the region of interest R based on an input from the operation unit 7 by a user of the apparatus. The region of interest R is a region where shear elastic waves are detected, and the ultrasonic pulse for detection is transmitted and received in this region.

  The display unit 6 is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like. The display unit 6 is an example of an embodiment of a display unit in the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, the operation unit 7 includes a keyboard for inputting instructions and information by a user of the apparatus, a pointing device such as a trackball, and the like. Yes.

  The control unit 8 is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 8 reads the program stored in the storage unit 9 and controls each unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1. For example, the control unit 8 reads a program stored in the storage unit 9 and causes the functions of the transmission / reception beamformer 3, the echo data processing unit 4, and the display processing unit 5 to be executed by the read program. .

  The control unit 8 executes all the functions of the transmission / reception beamformer 3, all of the functions of the echo data processing unit 4, and all of the functions of the display processing unit 5 by a program. Alternatively, only some functions may be executed by a program. When the control unit 8 executes only some functions, the remaining functions may be executed by hardware such as a circuit.

  The functions of the transmission / reception beamformer 3, the echo data processing unit 4, and the display processing unit 5 may be realized by hardware such as a circuit.

  The storage unit 9 is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor memory (RAM) such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory).

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 may include all of the HDD, the RAM, and the ROM as the storage unit 9. The storage unit 9 may be a portable storage medium such as a CD (Compact Disk) and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

  The program executed by the control unit 8 is stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as an HDD or a ROM. The program may be stored in a non-transitory storage medium having portability such as a CD (Compact Disk) and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

  Next, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of this example will be described. In this example, N (N is a natural number of 2 or more) propagation velocity is measured, and the measured value is displayed, and the statistical value of the displayed measured value is displayed. Incidentally, the propagation velocity is measured once per frame. Specifically, description will be made based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S1, the user of the apparatus transmits / receives an ultrasonic wave by the ultrasonic probe 2 to / from a living tissue of a subject, and displays a B-mode image BI based on an echo signal. Then, the user of the apparatus performs an input to set the region of interest R in the B-mode image BI, as shown in FIG. Thereby, the region of interest R is set in the B-mode image BI. This region of interest R is set to a region where an elastic image is to be displayed.

  Next, in step S2, a push pulse is transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 2. This push pulse is transmitted, for example, when the user of the apparatus performs an input to display an elastic image on the operation unit 7. The push pulse is transmitted outside the region of interest R, for example, near one end of the region of interest R in the lateral direction.

  The push pulse generates a shear elastic wave in the living tissue. The shear elastic wave propagates in a direction away from the push pulse.

  Next, in step S3, at least in the region of interest R and on the contour line of the region of interest R, a detection ultrasonic pulse for detecting the shear elastic wave is transmitted, and the echo signal is received. Transmission / reception of the ultrasonic pulse for detection is performed for a plurality of sound rays.

  Next, in step S4, the measurement value calculation unit 42 creates elasticity data based on an echo signal generated by the detection ultrasonic pulse. Here, this elastic data is data on the propagation velocity of the shear elastic wave. One propagation speed data is obtained per frame.

  In the region of interest R, the elasticity data is created for a plurality of measurement points in each of a plurality of sound rays through which the detection ultrasonic pulse is transmitted and received. These measurement points are, for example, portions corresponding to pixels.

  When the measurement value calculation unit 42 calculates the propagation speed for the plurality of measurement points in the region of interest R, the measurement value calculation unit 42 calculates the average value, that is, the average value of the propagation speeds in the region of interest R. The average value of the propagation velocity in the region of interest R is referred to as the propagation velocity Vs in the region of interest R.

  Incidentally, when the propagation speed for a plurality of measurement points in the region of interest R is calculated and a two-dimensional elasticity image is displayed, the propagation speed is determined by transmitting a push pulse for one frame and transmitting a detection ultrasonic pulse. The calculation is referred to as a single elasticity measurement.

  In step S4, the evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates an evaluation value Q. This will be specifically described. The measurement value calculation unit 42 obtains a temporal change in the displacement of the biological tissue due to the shear elastic wave at each of the measurement points. This time change of the displacement is obtained based on an echo signal by the detection ultrasonic pulse. The evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates the evaluation value Q by comparing the waveform of the time change of the displacement at two measurement points in the propagation direction of the shear elastic wave.

  This will be described in more detail. In some cases, noise is superimposed on the shear elastic wave due to reflection or diffraction in a living tissue. In addition, the living tissue itself may move. In such a case, the shear elastic wave generated by the push pulse may not propagate while maintaining the waveform at the time of generation. When such a shear elastic wave is detected by the detection ultrasonic pulse and the propagation velocity is calculated, the propagation velocity does not accurately reflect the elasticity of the living tissue. Therefore, the evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates the evaluation value Q based on the degree to which the waveform at the time of generation of the shear elastic wave propagating through the living tissue is maintained.

  Here, when the shear elastic wave generated by the push pulse does not propagate while maintaining the waveform at the time of the occurrence, the waveform of the temporal change in the displacement of the biological tissue due to the shear elastic wave is compared at two measurement points. , The degree of coincidence decreases. Therefore, as described above, the evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates the evaluation value Q by comparing the waveform of the displacement with time at two measurement points in the propagation direction of the shear elastic wave.

  This will be specifically described. FIG. 7 shows two measurement points A and B in the subject. The measurement point A is located on the contour line of the region of interest R, and the measurement point B is located in the region of interest R. The measurement points A and B are located in the propagation direction d (the direction of the arrow) of the shear elastic wave SW generated by the push pulse PP. The measurement points A and B are located on a sound ray through which the detection ultrasonic pulse is transmitted and received.

  For example, it is assumed that the waveform Wa of the displacement change over time is obtained as shown in FIG. 8 by plotting the change over time of the displacement of the living tissue due to the shear elastic wave at the measurement point A shown in FIG. Further, it is assumed that a waveform Wb of the displacement change over time is obtained as shown in FIG. 9 by plotting the change over time of the displacement of the living tissue due to the shear elastic wave at the measurement point B shown in FIG.

  The evaluation value calculation unit 43 performs a cross-correlation operation on the waveform Wa and the waveform Wb to calculate the degree of coincidence of waveforms. The evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates an evaluation value Q corresponding to the correlation coefficient of the portion with the highest degree of coincidence. The obtained evaluation value Q is an evaluation value of the propagation velocity obtained at the measurement point B.

  The evaluation value Q is a numerical value in the range of 0 to 100, for example. As the evaluation value Q is larger, the degree to which the elasticity of the living tissue is accurately reflected is higher. The evaluation value Q increases as the correlation coefficient increases. On the other hand, the smaller the correlation coefficient, the smaller the evaluation value Q. For example, if the waveform Wb varies as shown in FIG. 10, the correlation coefficient of the cross-correlation calculation with respect to the waveform Wa and the waveform Wb becomes small, and the evaluation value Q becomes small.

  The evaluation value calculation unit 43 performs a cross-correlation operation on the waveform of the temporal change of the displacement of the biological tissue due to the shear elastic wave at the two different measurement points as described above, and according to the correlation coefficient for one measurement point. The evaluation value Q is calculated. Then, the evaluation value calculation unit 43 calculates the evaluation value Q for all measurement points in the region of interest R. It is assumed that at least one of the two measurement points is in the region of interest R.

Furthermore, in this step S4, the statistical value calculation unit 44 calculates a statistical value of the propagation velocity Vs in the region of interest R and a statistical value of the evaluation value Qs. Here, in the flowchart of FIG. 5, the loop of steps S1 to S6 is repeated N times. The statistical value calculation unit 44 calculates the statistical value of the propagation velocity Vs and the statistical value of the evaluation value Q in the region of interest R obtained in step S4 until the M (M ≦ N) loop in this loop. To do. The statistical values are an average value and a standard deviation in this example. Wherein the average value of the propagation velocity Vs of the ROI R as an average value Vs _AV, an average value Q _AV an average value of the evaluation value Q. Further, a standard deviation of the propagation velocity Vs in the region of interest R is a standard deviation Vs _SD, and a standard deviation of the evaluation value Q is a standard deviation Q _SD .

Next, in step S5, the image display control unit 51 causes the display unit 6 to display the composite image CI in which the elastic image EI is displayed in the region of interest R as shown in FIG. In addition, the image display control unit 51 adds the propagation velocity Vs in the region of interest R obtained in step S4, the evaluation value Q to the list T displayed on the display unit 6 together with the composite image CI. The average values Vs _AV and Q _AV and the standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _SD are displayed. The frame number F is also displayed in the leftmost column of the list T.

Next, in step S <b> 6, the control unit 8 determines whether or not N (for N frames) the propagation velocity Vs and the evaluation value Q are displayed on the list T. When it is determined that the N propagation speeds Vs and the evaluation value Q are not displayed in the list T (“NO” in step S6), the process returns to the process of step S1, and again from this step S1. Processing is performed. In this case, when the propagation velocity Vs and the evaluation value Q are obtained again in step S4, in step S5, the image display control unit 51 obtains the newly obtained propagation velocity Vs as shown in FIG. The evaluation value Q is added to the list T and displayed, and the list T is updated. Further, the image display control unit 51 updates the display of the average values Vs _AV and Q _AV and the standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _{SD in} the list T.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S6 that the N propagation speeds Vs and the evaluation value Q are displayed in the list T as shown in FIG. 13 ("NO" in step S6), the process is terminated. To do. Here, N = 5. Accordingly, in the list T, five propagation velocities in the same part of the body tissue of the subject are displayed. If it is determined that the N propagation speeds Vs and the evaluation value Q are displayed in the list T, the transmission of the push pulse and the transmission of the detection ultrasonic pulse are stopped.

According to the example described above, every time the propagation speed Vs is calculated in the list T, the display of the list T is updated by adding the propagation speed Vs to the list T. Therefore, the user of the apparatus can know how many propagation velocities Vs have been obtained in the same part of the living tissue at the present time, and can know the degree of variation in numerical values. Further, the degree of variation in numerical values can also be known from the standard deviation Vs _SD . Further, the average value Vs _AV plurality of the propagation velocity Vs is displayed, it is possible to know the elasticity of more accurate biological tissue.

Further, since the evaluation value Q is displayed, it is possible to know how accurately the displayed propagation velocity Vs reflects the elasticity of the living tissue. Moreover, the the average value Q _AV is displayed, it is possible to know the overall accuracy of the plurality of the propagation velocity Vs. Further, by the standard deviation Q _SD are displayed, it is possible to know the degree of dispersion of the evaluation value Q.

  Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described. First, the first modification will be described. Depending on whether or not the evaluation value Q is greater than or equal to a threshold value Qth, the image display control unit 51 displays the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the display in different forms in the list T as shown in FIG. The frame number F is displayed. Thereby, the user of an apparatus can grasp | ascertain easily the propagation speed Vs which may not reflect the elasticity of a biological tissue correctly.

  Here, it is assumed that the threshold value Qth is less than 70. In the frame number F = 3 where the propagation velocity Vs = 1.8, the evaluation value Q = 40. Therefore, in the list T, dots are displayed in the rows where these numerical values are displayed. . However, it is not limited to such a display form. For example, each of the numerical values of the frame number F = 3, the propagation velocity Vs = 1.8, and the evaluation value Q = 40 may be other values in the list T. It may be displayed in a color different from the numerical value.

  Next, a second modification will be described. As shown in FIG. 15, the image display control unit 51 displays the propagation speed Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F side by side in descending order of the evaluation value Q in the list T. Here, in the list T, the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F are displayed in order from the top of the evaluation value Q. The image display control unit 51 compares the newly obtained evaluation value Q of the propagation velocity Vs with the evaluation value Q of the propagation velocity Vs already displayed in the list T, and newly The position where the obtained propagation velocity Vs and the evaluation value Q are displayed is determined, these are added and displayed, and the list T is updated.

  According to the second modification, since the list T is displayed in the order of the evaluation value Q, the user of the apparatus can see how many propagation speeds Vs by looking at the list T. However, it is possible to easily grasp the degree of accuracy of the acquisition.

  In the first embodiment, even if the N propagation speeds Vs and the evaluation value Q are displayed in the list T, the process may not be terminated. For example, when the list T is displayed in the display form as in the second modification, the user of the apparatus determines that the required number of the propagation speed Vs equal to or higher than the required evaluation value Q has been obtained. In some cases, the user of the apparatus may perform an input to end the process in the operation unit 7.

  Next, a third modification will be described. As shown in FIG. 16, in the list T, the line on which the propagation velocity Vs less than the threshold value Qth is displayed is displayed by the user of the apparatus using the cursor C displayed on the display unit 6. It is also possible to use the input to instruct. When there is this input, the image display control unit 51 displays the display of the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F in the row designated by the cursor C in the list T in FIG. Delete as shown. Further, the image display control unit 51 sequentially raises and displays the lines below the deleted lines.

  When an input instructed by the cursor C is performed, the image display control unit 51 displays the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F in the row instructed by the cursor C in the list T. The display may be displayed in a different display form, such as displaying in a different color from the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F in other rows.

  In addition, when an input instructed by the cursor C is performed, the image display control unit 51 displays the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the displayed in the line instructed by the cursor C in the list T. The frame number F may be displayed in a row at a different predetermined position. For example, the image display control unit 51 displays the propagation speed Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F displayed on the line designated by the cursor, the propagation speed Vs displayed on the list T, The evaluation value Q and the frame number F may be displayed in the lowest row.

Further, the statistical value calculation unit 44 calculates new average values Vs _AV and Q _AV and standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _SD excluding the propagation velocity Vs and the evaluation value Q from which the display is deleted. Then, the image display control unit 51 displays these new average values Vs _AV and Q _AV and standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _SD .

According to the third modification, the user can delete the propagation velocity Vs displayed in the list T, so that the propagation velocity in the list T accurately reflects the elasticity of the living tissue. Only Vs can be displayed. In addition, since the average value Vs _AV excluding the deleted propagation velocity Vs is newly displayed in the list T, the user of the apparatus can know a more accurate numerical value.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be described.

  In this example, the image display control unit 51 causes the list T to display the propagation velocity Vs in which the evaluation value Q is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qth. The push pulse and the detection ultrasonic pulse are transmitted until the N propagation speeds Vs are displayed in the list T, and the propagation speed Vs is calculated.

  Based on the flowchart of FIG. 18, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of the second embodiment will be specifically described. Steps S11 to S14 are the same processes as steps S1 to S4 in the first embodiment. Next, in step S15, the image display control unit 51 determines whether or not the evaluation value Q obtained in step S14 is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qth. If the evaluation value Q is less than the threshold value Qth (“NO” in step S15), the process returns to step S11. On the other hand, if the evaluation value Q is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qth (“YES” in step S15), the process proceeds to step S16.

In step S16, as in step S5 in the first embodiment, the image display control unit 51 displays the composite image CI on the display unit 6, and the list T is obtained in step S14. Further, the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, the average values Vs _AV and Q _AV , the standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _SD , and the frame number F are displayed.

  Next, in step S17, as in step S6 in the first embodiment, the control unit 8 displays the N (N frames) propagation velocity Vs and the evaluation value Q in the list T. It is determined whether or not. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 19, when the N propagation speeds Vs whose evaluation value Q is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qth are displayed (here, N = 5), the transmission of the push pulse and the detection are performed. The transmission of the ultrasonic pulse for use is stopped, and the process is terminated.

  According to this example, the display of the list T is updated until the N propagation speeds Vs whose evaluation value Q is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qth are displayed. The N propagation speeds Vs that reflect the elasticity of the living tissue as accurately as possible can be displayed. Thereby, the user of an apparatus can know more exact elasticity easily.

  Also in this example, the image display control unit 51, like the second modification of the first embodiment, in the list T, the propagation speed Vs and the evaluation value Q are in descending order of the evaluation value Q. The frame numbers F may be displayed side by side.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the first and second embodiments will be described.

  In this example, the image display control unit 51 counts the N propagations counted from the propagation speed Vs in the region of interest R obtained by the measurement value calculation unit 42 from the higher evaluation value Q. The speed Vs is displayed.

  Based on the flowchart of FIG. 20, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of the third embodiment will be specifically described. Steps S21 to S24 are the same as steps S1 to S4 and steps S11 to S14. Next, in step S25, the image display control unit 51 determines whether or not the N propagation speeds Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F are displayed on the list T. “N” is the maximum number of each of the propagation velocity Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F displayed in the list T. For example, as in the above embodiments, N = 5.

When it is determined that the N propagation speeds Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F are not displayed ("NO" in step S25), the process proceeds to step S27. In step S27, similarly to step S5, S16, the composite image CI and the said propagation velocity obtained in step S24 Vs, the evaluation value Q, the average value _{Vs AV, Q AV,} the standard deviation _{Vs SD} , Q _SD , and frame number F are displayed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S25 that the N propagation speeds Vs, the evaluation value Q, and the frame number F are displayed ("YES" in step S25), the process proceeds to step S26. . In step S26, the image display control unit 51 compares the evaluation value Q obtained in step S24 with the minimum evaluation value Qmin displayed in the list T, and whether Q> Qmin is satisfied. Determine whether.

  Here, the evaluation value Q obtained in step S24 is an example of an embodiment of the evaluation value of the first measurement value in the present invention. The minimum evaluation value Qmin is an example of an embodiment of the evaluation value of the second measurement value in the present invention.

If it is determined in step S26 that Q> Qmin (“YES” in step S26), the process proceeds to step S27. When the process proceeds from step S26 to step S27, the image display control unit 51 replaces the minimum evaluation value Qmin displayed in the list T, the propagation velocity Vs and the frame number F corresponding thereto, The list T is updated by causing the list T to display the evaluation value Q obtained in step S24, the propagation velocity Vs and the frame number F corresponding thereto. As a result, N (in this example, 5) propagation speeds Vs from the higher evaluation value Q are displayed. Further, the image display control unit 51 updates the display of the average values Vs _AV and Q _AV and the standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _{SD in} the list T.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S26 that Q> Qmin is not satisfied ("NO" in step S26), the process proceeds to step S28. When the propagation speed Vs, the evaluation value Q, the average values Vs _AV and Q _AV , the standard deviations Vs _SD and Q _SD , and the frame number F are displayed in step S27, the process proceeds to step S28. Transition.

  In step S28, it is determined whether or not to end the process. For example, when there is an input to end the process in the operation unit 7, the control unit 8 determines to end the process ("YES" in step S28). On the other hand, when there is no input for ending the process in the operation unit 7, the control unit 8 determines not to end the process ("NO" in step S28). In this case, the process returns to step S21.

  According to this example, since the propagation speed Vs up to the Nth counted from the higher evaluation value Q can be displayed on the list T, the user of the apparatus can more accurately determine the elasticity of the living tissue. I can know.

  Also in this example, the image display control unit 51, like the second modification of the first embodiment, in the list T, the propagation speed Vs and the evaluation value Q are in descending order of the evaluation value Q. The frame numbers F may be displayed side by side.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated by the said embodiment, of course, this invention can be variously implemented in the range which does not change the main point. For example, in the steps S4, S14, and S24, the measurement value calculation unit 42 may calculate the elasticity value. In this case, the image display control unit 51 may display the elasticity value on the list T instead of the propagation speed or together with the propagation speed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 21, the propagation speed for the measurement points in a part of the region rp in the region of interest R may be calculated, and the average value thereof may be used as the propagation velocity Vs. For example, the region setting unit 52 may set the region rp when a user of the apparatus performs an input for setting the region rp by the operation unit 7.

  Furthermore, even if the two-dimensional elasticity image EI is not displayed, measurement values (propagation speed, elasticity value) relating to the elasticity of the portion of interest P are calculated and displayed in the list T as shown in FIG. Good.

  The above-described calculation method of the evaluation value Q is an example. The evaluation value calculation unit 43 may calculate the evaluation value Q by calculating the degree to which the waveform at the time of generation of the shear elastic wave propagating through the living tissue is maintained by another method. For example, the evaluation value calculation unit 43 may calculate the evaluation value Q at the measurement point based on the S / N of the waveform of the temporal change in displacement of the biological tissue due to the shear elastic wave at the measurement point. . In this case, for example, the lower the S / N, the lower the evaluation value Q.

  In addition, the evaluation value Q may be calculated based on the number of peaks in the waveform of the change in displacement at the measurement point with time. In this case, as shown in FIG. 10, the evaluation value Q becomes lower as the number of peaks in the waveform of the change with time at the measurement point increases.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 3 Transmission / reception beam former 6 Display part 7 Operation part 8 Control part 42 Measurement value calculation part 43 Evaluation value calculation part 44 Statistical value calculation part 51 Image display control part

Claims (20)

A transmission control unit that controls transmission of an ultrasonic push pulse to a biological tissue of a subject and transmission of a detection ultrasonic pulse for detecting a shear elastic wave generated in the biological tissue by the push pulse;
Based on an echo signal by the ultrasonic pulse for detection, a measurement value calculation unit that calculates a measurement value related to the elasticity of the biological tissue;
A display control unit that displays a list of a plurality of measurement values in the same part of the subject on a display unit, wherein an echo signal from the ultrasonic pulse for detection is acquired and the measurement value calculation unit newly performs the measurement. A display control unit that updates the list each time a value is calculated;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:   2. The ultrasonic diagnosis according to claim 1, wherein the transmission control unit stops the transmission of the push pulse and the transmission of the ultrasonic pulse for detection when a predetermined number of the measurement values are displayed. apparatus. An evaluation value calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value indicating the degree to which the measurement value accurately reflects the elasticity of the living tissue;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays the measurement value in a different display form according to the evaluation value in the list.   The display control unit displays the measurement values in the list so that the degree of accurately reflecting the elasticity of the living tissue is in order, and the newly obtained measurement values The calculated evaluation value is compared with the evaluation value calculated for the measured value displayed in the list, and the newly obtained measured value is added to the list and displayed. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. An input unit that allows a user of the apparatus to perform an input for instructing the measurement value displayed on the display unit in the list;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit deletes the measured value instructed by the input unit in the list. An input unit that allows a user of the apparatus to perform an input for instructing the measurement value displayed on the display unit in the list;
The superimposition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display control unit displays the measurement value instructed by the input unit in a display form different from other measurement values in the list. Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment. An input unit that allows a user of the apparatus to perform an input for instructing the measurement value displayed on the display unit in the list;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit changes a display position in the list of measurement values instructed by the input unit. An evaluation value calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value indicating the degree to which the measurement value accurately reflects the elasticity of the living tissue;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays a list of the measurement values in which the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined criterion.   The transmission control unit stops the transmission of the push pulse and the transmission of the ultrasonic pulse for detection when a predetermined number of the measurement values satisfying a predetermined criterion is displayed. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8.   The display control unit is configured to display the measurement values satisfying a predetermined criterion in the list so that the evaluation value is in an order in which the degree of accurately reflecting the elasticity of the living tissue is high, The evaluation value calculated for the measurement value newly obtained is compared with the evaluation value calculated for the measurement value displayed in the list, and the measurement value newly obtained is compared with the list. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is additionally displayed.   The display control unit accurately reflects the elasticity of the living tissue among the plurality of measurement values obtained in the same part of the subject by the measurement value calculation unit as the measurement values in the list. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a predetermined number of measurement values counted from the higher degree are displayed. An evaluation value calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value indicating the degree to which the measurement value accurately reflects the elasticity of the living tissue;
The display control unit accurately reflects the evaluation value of the first measurement value newly obtained by the measurement value calculation unit and the elasticity of the living tissue among the measurement values displayed in the list. The evaluation value of the second measurement value having the lowest degree is compared, and the evaluation value of the first measurement value is more elastic than the evaluation value of the second measurement value. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 11, wherein when the degree of accurate reflection is high, the first measurement value is displayed instead of the second measurement value. The display control unit displays the measurement values in the list so that the degree of accurately reflecting the elasticity of the living tissue is in order, and the newly obtained measurement values The calculated evaluation value is compared with the evaluation value calculated for the measurement value displayed in the list, and the newly obtained measurement value is added to the list and displayed. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 11 or 12. A statistical value calculator that calculates a plurality of statistical values of the measurement values obtained in the same part of the subject;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays the statistical value in the list.   The said display control part displays the evaluation value which shows the degree to which the said measured value reflects the elasticity of the said biological tissue correctly on the said list | wrist, It is any one of Claims 1-14 characterized by the above-mentioned. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the display control unit displays a statistical value of the evaluation value.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the evaluation value is calculated based on a waveform of a temporal change in displacement of the living tissue due to the shear elastic wave in the living tissue.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays an elastic image corresponding to the measurement value together with the list.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the measured value is a propagation velocity of the shear elastic wave or an elastic value calculated based on the propagation velocity. A transmission control function for controlling transmission of ultrasonic push pulses to the biological tissue of the subject and transmission of ultrasonic pulses for detection for detecting shear elastic waves generated in the biological tissue by the push pulses;
Based on an echo signal by the ultrasonic pulse for detection, a measurement value calculation function for calculating a measurement value related to elasticity of the living tissue;
A display control unit that displays a list of a plurality of measurement values in the same part of the subject on a display unit, wherein an echo signal from the ultrasonic pulse for detection is acquired and the measurement value calculation unit newly performs the measurement. A display control function for updating the list each time a value is calculated;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising a processor that executes the program according to a program.

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