JP2016220738A - Ultrasonic diagnostic system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device capable of easily establishing a setting value set that determines an operation condition of an ultrasonic diagnostic system.SOLUTION: Basic items (a diagnosis region and an inspection method), a body type of a subject, and a probe to be used are selected as inspection conditions on an inspection condition establishing screen. On the basis of the inspection conditions, a standard set that meets the inspection conditions is selected from a standard set group 114 (130), and part of the standard set is corrected so that the standard set is optimized(132). A system operation condition is determined on the basis of the optimum set created by it (140). A setting value set is optimized in consideration of the body type as well.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic system, and more particularly to a technique for supporting setting of operating conditions of an ultrasonic diagnostic system.

  Various ultrasonic diagnostic systems are known in the medical field. For example, a relatively large cart-type ultrasonic diagnostic system, an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a plurality of units, a portable ultrasonic diagnostic system, and the like have been put into practical use. An ultrasound diagnostic system including a tablet, a smartphone-type ultrasound diagnostic system, and the like are also provided.

  In order to properly operate the ultrasonic diagnostic system, for example, a large number of parameters (operation mode, diagnostic range, transmission frequency, transmission repetition period, gain, contrast, filter coefficient, etc.) of several hundreds are individually set. It is necessary to give a value (setting value) to. If an appropriate set value set is not configured, the target ultrasound diagnosis cannot be executed, or the image quality of the ultrasound image is degraded. Such a set value set may be referred to as preset data.

  In a conventional ultrasonic diagnostic system, for example, several tens of standard set value sets are prepared in advance, and a specific set value set is selected by the inspector. Further, if necessary, one or more setting values in the specific setting value set are manually corrected.

  In practice, it is not easy for an inspector to select an optimal set value set or to adjust its contents. Therefore, as a potential function of the system, there are many cases where high image quality can be achieved, but the content of the set value set that is actually set is poor, so that high image quality is not enjoyed. It is done. There is a case where the set value set selected by default when the apparatus is started is used as it is.

  Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose an ultrasonic diagnostic system in which a set value set is configured according to a combination of a subject and a test site. Patent Document 3 discloses an ultrasonic medical system including a database that manages a plurality of setting value sets. In the system disclosed in Patent Document 4, a reference image (thumbnail image) is generated from a medical image such as an ultrasonic image, and a set value set is associated with the reference image and stored. When a specific reference image is selected from the reference image list, a set value set associated with the specific reference image is read and set as an operation condition.

JP 2012-205610 A JP 2012-239647 A JP 2004-135926 A JP-A-11-235334

  In the ultrasonic diagnostic system, as described above, it is desired to set an optimal set value set according to the situation at the time of each examination. However, it is difficult for a user (doctor, laboratory technician, etc.) to set an optimal set value set by his / her own judgment. It is desirable to support the setting and reduce the burden on the user. In particular, even a user who is not familiar with the specific contents of a set value set simply provides certain information about the subject, etc., and as a result, a set value set suitable for the examiner is automatically configured. And is desired to be set. In the ultrasonic diagnostic systems disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the set value set is selected according to the subject and the test site, but the size of the test site (or the size of the test subject) Until is not considered. The size of the region to be examined is closely related to various conditions such as a diagnostic range, a transmission focal depth, a transmission frequency, and a filter condition.

  An object of the present invention is to reduce the burden on an inspector in setting system operating conditions. Alternatively, an installation value set suitable for a subject can be easily set. Alternatively, the setting value set suitable for the subject can be set naturally only by the examiner selecting several items regarding the subject without being conscious of the setting value set.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention includes a providing means for providing a user with an inspection condition selection image for selecting an inspection condition including a test site in a subject and the body shape of the subject, and the inspection condition selection. Generating means for generating an optimal set value set for the subject based on information input via an image, and control means for controlling system operation based on the optimal set value set. Features.

  According to the above configuration, the inspection condition selection image is provided to the user, and the inspection condition regarding the subject is input via the inspection condition selection image. An input action may be performed directly on the inspection condition selection image, or an input action may be performed by a method (for example, key input) indicated by the inspection condition selection image. The examination conditions include the body shape of the subject, and an optimum set value set is generated as a set value set suitable for the body shape of the subject. Since the system operation is controlled according to such an optimal set value set, the image quality of the ultrasonic image can be improved without any particular burden on the user. For example, various conditions such as a diagnostic range, a transmission focal depth, a transmission frequency, and a filter condition are tuned according to the body shape. The process of specifying examination conditions for a subject by a plurality of attributes can also be referred to as subject profiling.

  Preferably, the examination condition selection image includes a basic item selection field for narrowing down basic items including the test site by stepwise selection, and a body type selection field for selecting the body type of the subject. Including. According to the basic item selection column, for example, in an item group having a hierarchical tree structure, basic items can be narrowed down by selecting items in stages from large items to small items. This is convenient for the user because it is sufficient to make sequential selections as prompted by the system. The body type selection column is a column for selecting the actual body type of the subject from a plurality of body types. Although the body type may be selected according to the overall physique of the subject, it is desirable to select the body type according to the actual thickness or size of the test site.

  Preferably, the basic item selection field includes a human body image composed of a plurality of parts for roughly selecting the test site, and the test site and the inspection method with respect to a part selected from the human body image. And an item list for selecting at least one of the items. According to a human body image (an image simulating a human body, which can also be referred to as a body mark), it is possible to intuitively select a portion including a region to be examined. In addition, if the item list is displayed, it is possible to easily narrow down the test site and the test method. It is desirable to prepare a male human body image and a female human body image, and switch the simulated image to be displayed according to the selection result of gender. It is desirable to manage the list of items displayed according to gender.

  Preferably, the body type selection field includes a plurality of virtual buttons having a plurality of graphic elements schematically representing a plurality of body types. Each body type may be expressed by characters, but there is a possibility that a subject who sees such a display may feel embarrassment and resistance when selecting a body type. Therefore, it is desirable to display a plurality of graphic elements that represent a plurality of body shapes schematically, preferably abstractly. If a body type selection column is displayed in the vicinity of the human body image, it becomes easy to grasp both in association with each other.

  Preferably, the inspection condition selection image includes a probe selection field including one or more graphic elements representing one or more currently connected probes. Although ordering may be performed with respect to selection of basic items, selection of body type, and selection of probes, it is desirable that these selections be performed in an arbitrary order. When all necessary selections are completed, it is desirable that an optimum set value set is quickly generated based on the input information, and ultrasonic diagnosis based on the optimum set value set is automatically started.

  Preferably, the generation unit is adapted to the subject from among the plurality of standard sets according to the examination conditions, and a standard set storage unit that stores a plurality of standard setting value sets as a plurality of standard sets. Standard set selection means for selecting a standard set to be performed, and optimization means for generating the optimum set value set by optimizing the standard set according to at least the body shape of the subject.

  Although it is possible to generate the entire optimal setting value set from the beginning based on the input information, according to the above configuration, a standard setting value set is first selected, and then a part thereof is corrected. By (or partially generating), an optimal set value set is generated. Optimization can also be expressed as customization. According to the above configuration, the optimum set value set can be generated easily and quickly.

  Preferably, each of the standard sets is preliminarily described with a plurality of candidate values corresponding to a plurality of body types with respect to at least one setting item, and the optimization unit is configured to select the test object from the plurality of candidate values. The candidate value is selected according to the person's body shape. According to this configuration, candidate values for each body type are prepared in advance, and when the body type is determined, the set value is determined immediately. Preferably, the optimization means optimizes the standard set according to the body shape of the subject and the probe to be used.

  Preferably, each standard set includes a specific level selected from a plurality of levels with respect to at least one setting item, and the optimization means includes the probe to be used and the specific level. In response, a setting value for the at least one setting item is determined. According to this configuration, each standard set describes a level as a relative value rather than an absolute value, and an actual setting value (absolute value) is determined according to the probe used and the description level. become. Therefore, even if the number of probe types increases, the standard set group can be used as it is.

  The set value set generation method according to the present invention includes a step of providing a user with an inspection condition selection image for selecting an inspection condition including a region to be examined and a body shape of the subject, and the inspection condition selection. Generating an optimum set value set for the subject based on information input via an image, and narrowing down the examination site in a stepwise selection in the examination condition selection image And a body type selection field for selecting the body type of the subject, and the optimum set value set is used in system operation control. The above method can be realized as a function of software (a program executed by the CPU). Such software is stored on a portable storage medium or transmitted via a network.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic system may be configured by a plurality of units, and one of them may be a tablet terminal. However, the above-described configuration can be applied to various systems such as a cart-type ultrasonic diagnostic system.

  According to the present invention, the burden on the inspector can be reduced in setting the system operating conditions. Alternatively, an installation value set suitable for the subject can be easily set. Alternatively, the setting value set suitable for the subject can be set naturally only by the inspector selecting several items regarding the subject without considering the setting value set.

1 is a conceptual diagram showing a preferred embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to the present invention. It is a perspective view of the ultrasonic diagnostic system in a separated state. It is a perspective view of the ultrasonic diagnostic system in a docking state. It is a block diagram of a front end device. It is a block diagram of a back end apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control part and memory | storage part which concern on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the standard set as a setting value set. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the setting value set by the stepwise selection of an inspection condition. It is a figure which shows an example of an image database. It is a figure for demonstrating selection of the frequency according to a body shape. It is a figure for demonstrating selection of the filter coefficient according to a body type. It is a figure for demonstrating selection of the transmission frequency based on the relative description of a transmission frequency. It is a flowchart which shows an operation example. It is a figure which shows an example of a main menu. It is a figure which shows an example of an inspection condition selection screen. It is a figure which shows an example of a diagnostic screen. It is a figure which shows an example of a search result display. It is a figure which shows an example of a preview screen. It is a figure which shows an example of a probe selection screen.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(1) Ultrasonic Diagnostic System FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic system 10 is a medical device used in a medical institution such as a hospital, and is for performing ultrasonic diagnosis on a subject (living body). The ultrasonic diagnostic system 10 is roughly divided into a front end (FE) device 12, a back end (BE) device 14, and a probe 16. The FE device 12 is a device close to the living body and the BE device 14 is a device far from the living body. The FE device 12 and the BE device 14 are separated, and each constitutes a portable device. The FE device 12 and the BE device 14 can operate in a separate state where they are separated, and can operate in a docking state where they are coupled. FIG. 1 shows a separate state.

  The probe 16 is a transducer that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves while being in contact with the surface of a living body. The probe 16 includes a 1D array transducer including a plurality of vibration elements arranged in a linear shape or an arc shape. An ultrasonic beam is formed by the array transducer and is repeatedly electronically scanned. A beam scanning surface is formed in the living body for each electronic scanning. As an electronic scanning method, an electronic linear scanning method, an electronic sector scanning method, and the like are known. It is also possible to provide a 2D array transducer capable of forming a three-dimensional echo data capturing space instead of the 1D array transducer. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the probe 16 is connected to the FE device 12 via a cable 28. The probe 16 may be connected to the FE device 12 by wireless communication. In that case, a wireless probe is used. In a state where a plurality of probes are connected to the FE device 12, the probe 16 to be actually used may be selected from them. The probe 16 inserted into the body cavity may be connected to the FE device 12.

  The FE device 12 and the BE device 14 are electrically connected to each other by a wireless communication method in the separated state shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, these devices are connected to each other by the first wireless communication method and the second wireless communication method. In FIG. 1, a wireless communication path 18 based on the first wireless communication system and a wireless communication path 20 based on the second wireless communication system are clearly shown. The first wireless communication method is faster than the second wireless communication method, and in this embodiment, ultrasonic reception data is transmitted from the FE device 12 to the BE device 14 using this method. That is, the first wireless communication system is used for data transmission. The second wireless communication method is a communication method that is lower in speed and simpler than the first wireless transmission method. In this embodiment, a control signal is transmitted from the BE device 14 to the FE device 12 using the method. That is, the second wireless communication system is used for control.

  In a docking state in which the FE device 12 and the BE device 14 are physically coupled, the FE device 12 and the BE device 14 are electrically connected by a wired communication method. Compared with the above two wireless communication systems, the wired communication system is considerably faster. In FIG. 1, a wired communication path 22 is shown between two devices. The power supply line 26 is for supplying DC power from the FE device 12 to the BE device 14 in the docking state. The electric power is used for the operation of the BE device 14 and is used for charging the battery in the BE device 14.

  Reference numeral 24 denotes a DC power supply line supplied from an AC adapter (AC / DC converter). The AC adapter is connected to the FE device 12 as necessary. The FE device 12 also has a built-in battery, and can operate while using the battery as a power source. The FE device 12 has a box shape as will be described later. The configuration and operation of the FE device 12 will be described in detail later.

  On the other hand, the BE device 14 has a tablet form or a flat form in the present embodiment. It basically has the same configuration as a general tablet computer. However, the BE device 14 is equipped with various types of dedicated software for ultrasonic diagnosis. This includes an operation control program, an image processing program, and the like. The BE device 14 includes a display panel 30 with a touch sensor. It functions as a user interface that doubles as an input device and a display device. In FIG. 1, a B-mode tomographic image as an ultrasonic image is displayed on the display panel 30. The user performs various inputs using the icons displayed on the display panel 30. On the display panel 30, a slide operation, an enlargement operation, and the like can be performed.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic system 10 can be operated in a usage mode selected from the separate state and the docking state in accordance with the diagnostic application, the examiner's preference, and the like. Therefore, it is possible to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic system that is easy to use.

  In this embodiment, in order to prevent the operation of the ultrasound diagnostic system 10 from becoming unstable or inappropriate when the state is changed, the control for forcibly setting the ultrasound diagnostic system 10 to the frozen state is executed when the state is changed. Specifically, in the process of shifting from the separate state to the docking state, the FE device 12 and the BE device 14 respectively determine immediately before docking based on the radio wave intensity or reception state that indicates the distance between the two devices. In accordance with the determination, control for changing the operation state to the freeze state is executed in each of the devices 12 and 14. After the docking state is formed and the freeze release operation by the inspector, the freeze state of the devices 12 and 14 is released. Incidentally, in the process of shifting from the docking state to the separate state, the separate state is detected by the FE device 12 and the BE device 14 by disconnection detection or other methods, and they are in a freeze state. After the subsequent freeze release operation, the freeze state of these devices 12 and 14 is released.

  The BE device 14 can be separately connected to the hospital LAN by a wireless communication method and a wired communication method. These communication paths are not shown. The BE device 14 (or the FE device 12) may be separately connected to another dedicated device (for example, a remote controller) that functions for ultrasonic diagnosis by a wireless communication method or a wired communication method.

  FIG. 2 shows a separate state. The FE device 12 is placed on a desk, for example. The FE device 12 has a holder 34 having an insertion slot (slot). The holder 34 has a hinge mechanism and can rotate around a horizontal axis. A connector provided at the end of the probe cable is attached to a specific side surface of the FE device 12. You may form the room which accommodates a probe etc. in the inside of the FE apparatus 12. FIG. According to such a configuration, it is convenient when the ultrasonic diagnostic system is transported, and the probe can be protected. In FIG. 2, the BE device 14 is separated from the FE device 12, and the BE device 14 can be further separated from the FE device 12 as long as wireless communication can be performed.

  FIG. 3 shows the docked state. The lower end of the BE device 14 is inserted into the insertion port of the holder 34. In the insertion state, the FE device 12 and the BE device 14 are in a wired connection state. That is, both are connected by a wired LAN, and both are connected by a wired power supply line. In the docking state, the angle of the BE device 14 can be arbitrarily changed to change its posture. It is also possible to completely tilt the BE device 14 to the rear side (the upper surface side of the FE device 12).

(2) Front End Device FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the FE device 12. Each block in the figure is configured by hardware such as a processor and an electronic circuit. The transmission signal generation circuit 38 is a circuit that supplies a plurality of transmission signals in parallel to a plurality of vibration elements in the probe via the probe connection circuit 40. This supply forms a transmit beam at the probe. When the reflected waves from the living body are received by the plurality of vibration elements, a plurality of reception signals are output from them, and the plurality of reception signals are input to the reception signal processing circuit 42 via the probe connection circuit 40. The reception signal processing circuit 42 includes a plurality of preamplifiers, a plurality of amplifiers, a plurality of A / D converters, and the like. A plurality of digital reception signals output from the reception signal processing circuit 42 are sent to the reception beamformer 46. The reception beamformer 46 applies phasing addition processing to a plurality of digital reception signals, and outputs beam data as a signal after phasing addition. The beam data consists of a plurality of echo data arranged in the depth direction corresponding to the received beam. The reception frame data is constituted by a plurality of beam data obtained by one electronic scan.

  The transmission / reception controller 44 controls transmission signal generation and reception signal processing based on transmission / reception control data sent from the BE device. The beam processor 50 is a circuit that performs various types of data processing such as detection processing, logarithmic conversion processing, and correlation processing on individual beam data input in time series order. The control unit 52 controls the overall operation of the FE device 12. In addition, control is performed to transmit the beam data sequentially transmitted from the beam processor 50 to the BE device by wire transmission or wireless transmission. In the present embodiment, the control unit 52 also functions as a wired communication device. The wireless communication device 54 is a module for performing communication using the first wireless communication method. The wireless communication device 56 is a module for performing communication using the second wireless communication method. Reference numeral 18 indicates a wireless communication path according to the first wireless communication system, and reference numeral 20 indicates a wireless communication path according to the second wireless communication system. Each is a bidirectional transmission path. In this embodiment, a large amount of received data is transmitted from the FE device 12 to the BE device using the former, and a control signal is transmitted from the BE device to the FE device 12 using the latter. Is transmitted. Reference numeral 64 denotes a terminal for wired communication, to which the wired communication path 22 is connected. Reference numeral 66 denotes a power supply terminal to which the power supply line 26 is connected. The power line 26 is a line for supplying DC power from the FE device 12 to the BE device as described above.

  The battery 60 is, for example, a lithium ion battery, and charging / discharging therein is controlled by a power supply controller 58. When the battery is driven, power from the battery 60 is supplied to each circuit in the FE device 12 via the power controller 58. Reference numeral 62 denotes a power supply line when the AC adapter is connected. When the AC adapter is connected, external power is supplied to each circuit in the FE device 12 by the action of the power supply controller 58. At this time, if the charge amount of the battery 60 is less than 100%, the battery 60 is charged using external power.

  At the time of ultrasonic diagnosis operation (during transmission / reception), the FE device 12 repeatedly executes supply of a plurality of transmission signals to the probe and processing of a plurality of reception signals obtained thereafter in accordance with control on the BE device side. . The beam data in chronological order obtained in this way are sequentially transmitted to the BE device by wireless communication in the separate state and by wire communication in the docked state. In that case, each beam data is converted into a plurality of packets, and each beam data is transmitted by a so-called packet transmission method.

  In addition to the B mode, various modes such as a CFM mode, an M mode, and a D mode (PW mode, CW mode) are known as operation modes. Transmission / reception processing for harmonic imaging and elasticity information imaging may be executed. In FIG. 1, circuits such as a biological signal input circuit are not shown.

(3) Backend Device FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the BE device 14. In the figure, each block represents hardware such as a processor, a circuit, and a memory. The CPU block 68 includes a CPU 70, an internal memory 72, and the like. The internal memory 72 functions as a working memory or a cache memory. The external memory 80 connected to the CPU block 68 stores an OS, various control programs, various processing programs, and the like. The latter includes a scan conversion processing program. The external memory 80 also functions as a cine memory having a ring buffer structure. A cine memory may be configured on the internal memory 72.

  The CPU block 68 generates display frame data by a scan conversion process based on a plurality of beam data. It constitutes an ultrasonic image (for example, a tomographic image). The processing is sequentially executed to generate a moving image. The CPU block 68 performs various processes for displaying an ultrasonic image on the beam data or the image. In addition, the operation of the BE device 14 is controlled, and the entire ultrasonic diagnostic system is controlled.

  The touch panel monitor (display panel) 78 functions as an input device and a display device. Specifically, the touch panel monitor 78 includes a liquid crystal display and a touch sensor, and functions as a user interface. A display image including an ultrasonic image is displayed on the touch panel monitor 78, and various buttons (icons) for operation are displayed.

  The wireless communication device 74 is a module for performing wireless communication according to the first wireless communication method. The wireless communication path at that time is indicated by reference numeral 18. The wireless communication device 76 is a module for performing wireless communication according to the second wireless communication method. The wireless communication path at that time is indicated by reference numeral 20. The CPU block 68 also has a function of performing wired communication according to a wired communication method. In the docked state, a wired communication line is connected to the wired communication terminal 92. The power supply line 26 is connected to the power supply terminal 94.

  A plurality of detectors 84 to 90 are connected to the CPU block 68 via an I / F circuit 82. It may include illuminance sensors, proximity sensors, temperature sensors and the like. A module such as GPS may be connected. The I / F circuit 82 functions as a sensor controller.

  The battery 102 is a lithium ceramic type battery, and charging / discharging thereof is controlled by the power supply controller 100. The power supply controller 100 supplies power from the battery 102 to each circuit in the BE device 14 during battery operation. At the time of non-battery operation, the power supplied from the FE device or the power supplied from the AC adapter is supplied to each circuit in the BE device 14. Reference numeral 104 denotes a power supply line via an AC adapter.

  The BE device 14 controls the FE device, sequentially processes the beam data sent from the FE device, generates an ultrasonic image, and displays it on the touch panel monitor 78. At that time, an operation graphic image is also displayed together with the ultrasonic image. In a normal real-time operation, the BE device 14 and the FE device are electrically connected by radio or wire, and the ultrasound diagnosis operation is continuously executed while the two are synchronized. In the freeze state, the operations of the transmission signal generation circuit and the reception signal generation circuit in BE device 14 are stopped, and the operation of the booster circuit in power supply controller 100 is also stopped. In the BE apparatus, a still image is displayed at the time of freezing, and the content is maintained. You may comprise so that an external indicator can be connected to BE apparatus.

(4) Generation and Restoration of Set Value Set FIG. 6 shows the configuration of the control unit 110 and the storage unit 112. The control unit 110 corresponds to the CPU and operation program shown in FIG. The storage unit 112 corresponds to the internal memory 72 and the external memory 80 shown in FIG. However, the configuration shown in FIG. 6 is merely an example.

  The storage unit 112 stores a standard set group 114. Each standard set is, for example, a set value set consisting of hundreds of set values (parameter values), which is a standard or general-purpose set prepared as a default set. Each standard set constitutes one table or one file. For example, the standard set group 114 includes 64 standard sets.

  The probe management table 116 is a table for managing a plurality of transmission frequencies associated with a plurality of frequency levels (high, high, medium, medium (normal), and low) for each probe type. In each standard set, the transmission frequency as a specific numerical value is not described, but a specific frequency level (rank) that is a relative expression is described instead. When the use probe is selected, a plurality of transmission frequencies corresponding to a plurality of frequency levels are specified according to the type of the probe used. Among them, a specific transmission frequency corresponding to a specific frequency level described in the set value set is selected. The transmission frequency is described as a numerical value in the set value set (current set) to be used at present, that is, such information is embedded.

  The other management table group 118 includes one or a plurality of management tables. Each management table is referred to as necessary when determining some values in the set value set, like the above-described probe management table.

  The image DB (database) 128 is for managing a plurality of pieces of information associated with each diagnostic image (for example, B-mode image). The storage unit 112 stores a diagnostic image group 120, a save set group 122, a preview image group 124, and a thumbnail image group 126. The image DB 128 is configured to manage them. As information associated with each diagnostic image, a storage set (a set value set at the time of store instruction (current set)), a preview image (an image used when an individual image is enlarged after image search, And a thumbnail image (an image generated by reducing or reducing the resolution of the diagnostic image), etc., which have the same contents as the diagnostic image but have a different format from the diagnostic image.

  The control unit 110 includes a selection unit 130, an optimization unit 132, an operation control unit 140, a store processing unit 146, a restoration unit 148, a change unit 150, and the like. The selection unit 130 selects one standard set that matches the inspection condition input by the user from the standard set group 114. The optimization unit 132 generates an optimized setting value set (that is, an optimization set) by correcting a part of the selected standard value set. The optimization gives, for example, specific setting values that match the subject for some items in the selected standard set. The optimized set is written as a current set on the storage area 142 in the operation control unit 140. The operation control unit 140 sets operation conditions for the entire ultrasound diagnostic system based on the contents of the current set. This includes, for example, a number of settings such as operation mode setting, transmission frequency setting, gain value setting value, contrast value setting, filter setting, and the like.

  The store processing unit 146 stores the displayed image and the current set in the storage unit 112 at the timing when the store command is issued. Prior to that, information such as the identifier of the current probe is written (embedded) in the current set. The saved current set is referred to as a saved set. A series of processes as described above is a store process.

  When a specific diagnostic image is selected, the restoration unit 148 specifies a storage set associated with the specific diagnostic image, reads the read set, and executes processing to be given to the operation control unit 140. By such reuse, it is possible to restore the operating conditions at the time of past inspection as they are. Prior to the restoration, the difference between the current probe (the currently selected probe) and the original probe is determined, and if it is different, the information of the original probe is provided to the user and the connection of the same probe as the original probe is prompted. . At that time, the connection probe is exchanged as necessary. When determining the difference between probes, the match / mismatch of the probe type (probe type ID) is determined. Alternatively, it is also possible to determine whether the probe type matches or does not match or the probe serial number matches or does not match.

  When a probe is connected by a circuit not shown, probe specific information stored in a memory such as a ROM in the probe is automatically read out. Monitoring of probe connection is always performed. The probe specific information is given to the control unit 110, and the information includes information for identifying the probe type. In the present embodiment, for example, three probes can be connected at one time, and one probe to be actually used is selected from among them. However, a configuration in which only one probe can be connected may be employed.

  The changing unit 150 is a module for freely modifying the contents of the current set by the user. Various parameter values are changed by an input operation on the screen. The contents of the current set will be updated as needed. Incidentally, the old value may be overwritten on the old value at the time of change, but the old value may be stored as history data somewhere in the current set.

  The individual diagnostic images constituting the diagnostic image group 120 are, for example, still images. In other words, a storage set, a preview image, a thumbnail image, and the like are managed in association with each individual still image. However, the same management may be performed for moving images. In the case of a moving image, the set value set corresponding to the last frame in the frame sequence may be stored as a storage set, or a storage set that changes dynamically with respect to the frame sequence is stored as it is. You may make it keep. The program executed in the control unit 110 is installed in the present system via a portable storage medium or a network.

  FIG. 7 illustrates a standard set. The standard set 152 is a setting value set including a large number of setting values, for example, as many as 400. In the example shown in the figure, as setting values, operation mode 154, transmission frequency level (standard) 156, body type ranges (thin range, medium range, wide range) 158, body type gains (thin gain, medium gain) , Thick gain) 160, body type filter coefficients (thin coefficient, medium coefficient, thick coefficient) 162, and the like. Here, the range is a diagnostic depth range. For body type dependent items, a plurality of candidate values corresponding to a plurality of body types are prepared. When a body type is designated for the subject, a candidate value corresponding to the body type is selected and used as an actual set value. As a transmission frequency, a specific absolute value is not described, but a “standard” as a relative expression or a relative description is specified. As will be described in detail later, on the probe management table, the transmission frequency is specified as a specific numerical value from the recognized probe type and the description “standard” of the transmission frequency in the set value set. By adopting a relative description in the set value set, there is an advantage that even if a new probe is generated, it is only necessary to add the contents of the probe management table.

  The standard set includes a field describing a probe ID for specifying a probe type. At the stage of configuring the current set or the saved set, the field 164 describes the probe ID for the probe actually used. The set value may be optimized according to the combination of the body type and the probe type. In this embodiment, after selecting one standard set suitable for the subject (and its inspection method) from the standard set group, a part of the standard set is the subject's body type and probe to be used. It is modified (optimized) according to the situation. As a result, it is not necessary to prepare a considerably large number of standard sets, and there is an advantage that an optimized set can be generated easily and quickly. In addition to or in addition to the body shape, constitution information such as fat percentage and BMI may be used.

  Next, designation of inspection conditions will be described with reference to FIG. The upper part of FIG. 8 shows a selection process of basic items in the inspection conditions. The lower part shows the body type selection process and the probe selection process.

  In the selection process of basic items, the basic items are narrowed down by hierarchical or stepwise selection. Specifically, any gender is first selected from the gender list 170. The gender list 170 includes a male item and a female item in the illustrated example, and the male item is selected here.

  By the selection, the type of the human body image 172 that simulates the human body is determined. A male human body image and a female human body image are prepared, and a human body image corresponding to the selected gender is displayed. The human body image 172 includes a plurality of parts. Specifically, the head is divided into a head 172a, a neck 172b, a chest 172c, an upper limb 172d, an abdomen 172e, and a lower limb 172f. By selecting one of the parts, for example, by touching the part corresponding to the diagnosis target on the screen of the display with a touch sensor, it is possible to select a rough diagnosis part (large classification). is there.

  When the major category is selected, one or a plurality of selection item lists are displayed. When a plurality of selection item lists are displayed, they are sequentially displayed from the upper level to the lower level. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8, when an abdomen is selected, an item list 174 indicating a plurality of organs included in the abdomen is displayed. When an item (medium category) 176 corresponding to a specific organ is selected, an item list 178 indicating a plurality of diagnostic sites in the organ is displayed. When an item (small category) 180 corresponding to a specific diagnosis site is selected from among them, an item list 182 indicating a plurality of diagnosis methods is displayed. An item 184 corresponding to a specific diagnosis method is selected from the list. Any item list may include one or more diagnostic methods. In any case, the selection of the basic items 186 can be completed by simply selecting the hierarchically managed items. At that time, there is no need for the user to input the set value set, and it is only necessary to make individual selections according to the subject. This process can be referred to as subject profiling including body type selection described later.

  In specifying the body type, a specific button is selected from the body type selection column 188 displayed on the screen according to the judgment of the examiner. In the illustrated example, the button 190 is selected. Each button is a virtual button or icon, and a figure that schematically represents the body shape is drawn inside the button frame. The figure is a graphic element. In the illustrated example, three cylinders having different diameters are drawn. It is possible to prepare three buttons with the letters “Thin, Medium, and Thick”, but in this case, when the subject sees it or sees the selection result There is a risk of feeling resistance. Such a problem can be avoided or reduced by the expression method of the present embodiment.

  In specifying the probe to be used, a connection probe list (probe selection field) 194 is displayed based on probe identification information automatically detected for each connection probe. Each item includes a probe identifier and a mark. In the illustrated example, the probe specified in the item 196 is selected as the probe to be used.

  As a result of the selection as described above, the input of the inspection condition 198 is completed. At that point, a standard set is selected and its contents are optimized. This generates an optimal set. It is unnecessary for the inspector to be aware of the selection of the standard set and the optimization thereof, and the optimum set is generated as a result only by repeating the selection on the inspection condition input screen. That is, the generation of the optimum set is executed as a background process. However, the contents of the optimum set can be specifically referred to by displaying a predetermined screen.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of an image database (DB). The image database 128 is for managing various types of information in association with each diagnostic image. In the illustrated example, subject information 202, examination information 204, preview image pointer 206, thumbnail image pointer 208, setting value set ID 210, and the like are associated with each diagnostic image ID (image ID) 200. The subject information 202 includes a subject ID, a subject name, and the like. The inspection information 204 includes information such as an inspection date and an inspection number.

  For example, when any image ID is selected on such an image DB, it is possible to immediately specify a preview image, a thumbnail image, and a setting value set (storage set) associated with the image ID. The same applies when any one of the thumbnail images is selected. Various searches can be performed using the image DB 128. For example, an image search can be performed using the subject ID as a key. In that case, preferably, one or a plurality of thumbnail images are displayed as an image list for each examination date.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the range column 212 in the standard set. Three numerical values specifying three ranges corresponding to the three body types are described. FIG. 11 shows an example of the filter coefficient sequence 214 in the standard set. Three numerical values (sequences) specifying three filter coefficients corresponding to the three body types are described. FIG. 12 shows an example of the probe management table. The vertical axis represents a plurality of frequency levels (ranks). Specifically, four levels (relative designation) of high, medium high, standard, and low are shown. Among them, one level 218 is selected by the description in the standard set. For example, a standard is selected. The horizontal axis represents a plurality of probe types that can be handled in this system. Among them, a specific probe 220 which is a connected probe and selected by the user is selected. The specific transmission frequency 222 is specifically specified by the selection of the vertical axis and the horizontal axis as described above. When a new probe appears, it can be dealt with by increasing the number of items in the probe management table 216, and there is no need to modify the contents of each standard set each time.

  FIG. 13 shows an operation example. The operation is realized by the control unit shown in FIG. In S10, the main menu shown in FIG. 14 is displayed later. The main menu is the top page, and the main menu is always displayed when starting up and when the home button is input. A desired item can be selected from a plurality of items on the main menu. Among the plurality of items, items for setting inspection conditions and items for history search are included.

  When the inspection condition setting item is selected, an inspection condition selection screen shown in FIG. 15 is displayed later in S12. On the inspection condition selection screen, an inspection condition is specified by selecting a plurality of items according to the subject or according to the contents of the current inspection. Among the inspection conditions, the basic items can be determined by hierarchical item selection. Basic items include the examination site, preferably the examination site and the examination method. Further, the body type of the subject and the probe to be used are selected using the examination condition selection screen. This will also be described later with reference to FIG. When selecting the examination site, a human body image is displayed, and a section (large classification) including the examination site is designated by selecting a specific site in the image. As a human body image, a human body image representing a man and a human body image representing a woman are prepared, and any one of the human body images is displayed according to the selection result of gender. When gender selection is not performed, for example, a human body image representing a male is displayed as a default.

  By repeating the item selection as described above, the inspection condition is designated as a result. Thus, in S14, a standard set that matches the designated inspection condition is selected from the standard set group. Moreover, the content of the standard set is optimized by correcting a part of the content of the standard set according to the inspection condition. That is, an optimal set that matches the inspection conditions is generated. In S16, the operating condition of each circuit in the system is set based on the optimum set (initial current set), and transmission / reception is started thereby.

  During the diagnosis, if it is determined in S18 that the operating condition is manually corrected, for example, if the operation of the gain knob is determined, in S20, the operating condition is corrected according to the newly specified value. That is, the system operates according to the value. At that point, the contents of the current set may be modified immediately. That is, the old value may be rewritten to a new value at that time. Alternatively, the new value may be reflected in the current set, for example, after the store. Further, an old value may be left as a history.

  Further, during diagnosis, if it is determined in S22 that a store instruction has been input, store processing is executed in S24. That is, the diagnostic image currently displayed and the current set used for the acquisition are stored. The saved current set is managed while being associated with the diagnostic image as a saved set. In S26, it is determined whether or not the diagnosis is to be ended. If the diagnosis is not ended, each step after S18 is repeatedly executed. In S28, transmission / reception is stopped.

  On the other hand, when a history search item is selected in the main menu, an image search condition is input by the user in S30. For example, the ID of the subject who has been examined this time is input as a search key. Then, in S32, an image search using the DB is executed, and the search result is displayed. In the present embodiment, the search result is displayed in the form of an image list for each examination date. That is, past test results executed for the same subject are displayed. A specific example thereof will be shown later in FIG.

  In S34, when a specific diagnostic image (actually, a thumbnail image representing it) is designated in the search result, a preview image corresponding to the designated image is enlarged and displayed as shown in FIG. Along with the preview image, in this embodiment, a selection field for selecting whether or not to apply the save set associated with the preview image is also displayed. When application execution is instructed using the selection field, in S38, the original probe information written in the saved set is referred to, and the original probe is specified. Then, it is determined whether or not the same probe as the original probe is in one or more currently connected probes (current probe). If the same probe as the original probe is connected, the process proceeds to S14, and if it does not exist, the process proceeds to S40.

  In S40, a probe selection screen is displayed. As shown in FIG. 19 later, the probe selection screen includes original probe information for specifying a probe to be used when the preview image is stored and a current probe list. The current probe list is configured as an icon (or a virtual button) representing each currently connected probe, and includes a schematic diagram and a model name of the probe. In order to restore the operating conditions completely or as much as possible, the same probe as the original probe should be used, and the connection of the same probe is promoted by providing the original probe information as described above.

  S42 indicates a user action to be performed as necessary, that is, probe replacement. If there is a free connector, a new probe is connected to that connector, and if there is no free connector, one of the probes is removed and a new probe is connected instead. The connection state of the probe is constantly monitored, and when the connection state changes, the change is immediately reflected in the probe list. Even if the same probe as the original probe does not exist, a probe having a specification close to the specification of the original probe may be connected. By displaying the original probe information and the current probe list at the same time, it is possible to provide information necessary for the user to make a comprehensive judgment.

  In S44, a specific probe is selected from the current probe list. Accordingly, in S16, the saved set is used as the current set, that is, ultrasonic diagnosis is started. The steps after S18 are as already described.

  The above operation example includes at least two features. The first characteristic item is selection of the inspection condition including the body type by using the inspection condition selection screen. By selecting the body shape of the subject, the contents of the set value set to be used can be optimized from the body shape side. Regarding the selection of inspection conditions, large item selection and hierarchical selection using a human body image can also be referred to as characteristic items. The second characteristic item is probe determination when the storage set is reused. In other words, the original set is reused as much as possible by using the same probe as the original probe. In this regard, providing the original probe information and the current probe information at the same time can be said to be a feature item. In addition, it can be said that the original probe information is embedded in the storage set.

  FIG. 14 illustrates a main menu. This is displayed on the screen of a display with a touch sensor. The main menu 224 includes a plurality of items (a plurality of virtual buttons). An item 226 is operated when an inspection condition is designated. By the operation, each process after S12 in FIG. 13 is executed. The item 228 is operated when performing an image search. By the operation, each process after S30 in FIG. 13 is executed. The column 230 includes three items, which constitute a probe list. For example, when three probes are connected, as shown, three virtual buttons indicating them are displayed. In each button, a mark simulating a probe and a probe model name are displayed. More detailed information may be provided. In a system having only one probe connector, only one virtual button is displayed. By pressing the home button, the main menu can be displayed again immediately. The main menu includes buttons and the like that are operated when subject registration is performed.

  FIG. 15 illustrates an inspection condition selection screen 232. The inspection condition selection screen 232 includes a basic item selection field 234, a body type selection field 236, and a probe selection field 238.

  The basic item selection field 234 includes a selection field including a schematic human body image 172 and one or a plurality of item lists 240 242 244. The human body image 172 includes a human body image representing a man and a human body image representing a woman, and a human body image corresponding to the gender of the subject is displayed according to a gender selected separately. Each human body image is divided into a plurality of portions as described with reference to FIG. A specific portion including the examination site is selected from among them. For example, the abdomen is selected. Then, an item list 240 associated with the abdomen is displayed. The item list 240 is made up of a plurality of items representing parts in the abdomen and examination methods. When a specific item in the item list 240 is selected, an item list 242 related to the item is displayed. The item list 242 also includes a plurality of items, and when a specific item is selected from among the items, an item list 244 related to the item is displayed. A specific item is selected from the list. After selection on the human body image 172, the number of items displayed (number of hierarchies) depends on the actual examination site and examination method. Only one item list 240 may be displayed. In any case, it is possible to easily specify the inspection condition by asking the user for hierarchical stepwise selection. In that case, it is not necessary to be aware of the set value set and the device operating conditions. In the illustrated example, the item list 240 corresponding to the middle classification includes items of digestive organs, blood vessels, urinary organs, surgery, and laparoscope (surgery), and the item list 242 corresponding to the minor classification includes general items, The item list 244 corresponding to the sub-classification includes items of high sound pressure, medium sound pressure, and low sound pressure. All the contents are merely examples. Each of the individual elements (for example, a human body image and a button) on the screen is a graphic element.

  The body type selection field 236 includes three items (buttons) 246, 248, 250 in the illustrated example. The three items represent thin, medium and thick as body types. To represent them, three figures are drawn in the three buttons. Each figure is a cylinder, and the diameters are different between them. Therefore, the user can recognize the difference in body shape intuitively. Even if the subject looks into the screen, it is difficult to notice as a figure entry field. According to the example of illustration, it is kind to a subject rather than specifying a body type directly with a character. You may utilize figures other than the above. For example, a sphere or an ellipse can be considered. Or a symbol can be considered.

  The probe selection field 238 includes three items (buttons) 252, 254, and 256 in the illustrated example. It shows the currently connected probes and is a probe list. In each item, a mark indicating a probe and a model name are displayed.

  The selection of basic items, the selection of body type, and the selection of probes may be performed in an arbitrary order. When all of them are executed, a standard set that matches the current examination is selected and its contents are optimized. The layout of the inspection condition selection screen shown in FIG. 15 is an example. However, it is desirable that the human body image 172 and the body type selection column 236 be close to each other. When the cursor is placed on a specific item on the item list, a lower-level item list related to the specific item may be temporarily displayed even before the item is actually selected.

  FIG. 16 shows a screen 258 under examination. The ultrasonic diagnosis is executed by setting the system operating condition by actually using the optimization set generated as described above. As a result, a screen 258 as shown in FIG. 16 is displayed. This includes an ultrasonic image (diagnostic image) 260 and an operation image 262. The diagnostic area including the ultrasonic image includes a body mark 263 and a probe mark 264. The operation image 262 includes a plurality of buttons (operation elements). This includes, for example, a freeze button.

  FIG. 17 illustrates an image search result. For example, when an image search is performed using the subject ID as a search key, an image 266 as shown in FIG. 17 is displayed. The image 266 includes image lists 268 and 270 for each examination date. When a specific image (interest image) 272 is selected from these images, preview display is executed as shown in FIG. A preview image 274 is displayed in the screen. It corresponds to an image obtained by enlarging the thumbnail image. A body mark 276 and a probe mark 278 are included in the screen. A plurality of representative setting values 280, 282, and 284 are also included. They correspond to a part of the set value set and indicate image acquisition conditions. Displayed numerical values include transmission frequency, gain, diagnostic range, and the like.

  An item 286 is included in the preview screen. It is operated when reproducing a set value set at the time of storing an image displayed as a preview. For example, if a set value set adopted in the previous examination for a certain subject is reused in the current examination, it is possible to align the system operating conditions between the two examinations. Reference numeral 288 indicates a probe information display field. In the column, for example, a mark for specifying the original probe, a model name, and the like are displayed. When the same probe as the original probe is not connected, a symbol indicating the absence may be displayed.

  If the same probe as the original probe is connected when the item 286 is operated, the set value set is reused as it is without displaying the probe selection image described below, and diagnosis is started.

  On the other hand, if the same probe as the original probe is not connected during the operation of item 286, a probe selection image shown in FIG. 19 is displayed. Specifically, a probe selection image 290 is pop-up displayed so as to overlap the center portion of the preview image shown in FIG. The probe selection image 290 includes a display field 294 including original probe information and a probe list 292. The display column 294 includes a mark indicating the original probe and a model name. In the illustrated example, the probe list 292 includes three items (buttons) 296, 298, and 300, each representing a connected probe. Each item includes a mark indicating a probe and a model name.

  By observing the contents of the display field 294 and the probe list 292, it is possible to comprehensively determine whether or not the probe should be exchanged and which probe is used when the probe is not exchanged. When the probe connection status is monitored in real time and the probe is exchanged, the latest status is reflected on the probe selection image 290. Even in such a case, since the information of the original probe continues to be displayed, it is possible to take the original probe information into consideration when selecting the probe to be used. When any item, that is, a probe is selected, ultrasonic diagnosis is started.

  As shown in FIG. 19, in the preview screen, representative setting value displays 280, 282, and 284 are exposed in the peripheral area of the probe selection image 290, and these should be referred to when selecting a probe. Is possible. The body mark 276 also appears almost entirely.

  In the above-described embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a plurality of units has been described. However, each of the above configurations may be applied to a cart-type ultrasonic diagnostic system or the like.

  10 ultrasonic diagnostic systems, 12 front-end (FE) devices, 14 back-end (BE) devices, 16 probes.

Claims (10)

Providing means for providing a user with an inspection condition selection image for selecting an inspection condition including a test site in the subject and the body type of the subject,
Generating means for generating an optimal set value set for the subject based on information input via the inspection condition selection image;
Control means for controlling system operation based on the optimum set value set;
An ultrasonic diagnostic system comprising: The system of claim 1, wherein
The inspection condition selection image is:
A basic matter selection field for narrowing down the basic matter including the test site by stepwise selection;
Body type selection column for selecting the body type of the subject,
An ultrasonic diagnostic system comprising: The system of claim 2, wherein
The basic item selection field is
A human body image composed of a plurality of parts for roughly selecting the test site;
An item list for selecting at least one of the test site and the inspection method for a portion selected from the human body image;
An ultrasonic diagnostic system comprising: The system of claim 2, wherein
The body type selection field includes a plurality of virtual buttons having a plurality of graphic elements schematically representing a plurality of body types.
An ultrasonic diagnostic system characterized by that. The system of claim 2, wherein
The inspection condition selection image includes a probe selection field including one or more graphic elements representing one or more currently connected probes.
An ultrasonic diagnostic system characterized by that. The system of claim 1, wherein
The generating means includes
A standard set storage unit that stores a plurality of standard set values as a plurality of standard sets;
A standard set selection means for selecting a standard set suitable for the subject from the plurality of standard sets according to the examination conditions;
Optimization means for generating the optimum set value set by optimizing the standard set according to at least the body shape of the subject;
An ultrasonic diagnostic system characterized by that. The system of claim 6, wherein
In each of the standard sets, a plurality of candidate values corresponding to a plurality of body types are described in advance for at least one setting item,
The optimization means selects a candidate value according to the body type of the subject from the plurality of candidate values.
An ultrasonic diagnostic system characterized by that. The system of claim 6, wherein
The optimization means optimizes the standard set according to the body shape of the subject and the probe to be used.
An ultrasonic diagnostic system characterized by that. The system of claim 8, wherein
Each standard set describes a specific level selected from among a plurality of levels for at least one setting item,
The optimization means determines a setting value for the at least one setting item according to the probe to be used and the specific level.
An ultrasonic diagnostic system characterized by that. Providing a user with an inspection condition selection image for selecting an inspection condition including a test site in the subject and the body type of the subject; and
Generating an optimal set value set for the subject based on information input via the examination condition selection image;
Including
The examination condition selection image includes a basic matter selection field for narrowing down basic matters including the test site by stepwise selection, and a body type selection field for selecting the body type of the subject. ,
The optimum set value set is used in system operation control;
A setting value set generation method characterized by the above.