JP2024029688A - Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment, image processing equipment, and ultrasound systems - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to enable different operators to perform measurements in parallel on the same ultrasound image. An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a transmitting/receiving unit, an image generating unit, a transmitting/receiving unit that controls transmission and reception of ultrasound, a measurement information receiving unit, a communication control unit, and a display control unit. Be prepared. The transmitting/receiving unit controls transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. The image generation section generates an ultrasound image based on the data received under the control of the transmission/reception section. The measurement information reception unit displays the ultrasound image on the display unit and receives input of first measurement information regarding the ultrasound image. The communication control unit controls the communication unit to transmit the ultrasound image to the measurement device, and also controls the communication unit to receive the second measurement information input by the measurement device. The display control unit causes the display unit to display a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image, and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. . [Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

Embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, an image processing apparatus, and an ultrasound system.

2. Description of the Related Art In the medical field, ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses are used that image the inside of a subject using ultrasound generated using multiple transducers (or piezoelectric transducers) of an ultrasound probe. An ultrasound diagnostic device transmits ultrasound waves into a subject from an ultrasound probe connected to the ultrasound diagnostic device, generates an echo signal based on reflected waves, and obtains a desired ultrasound image through image processing.

When performing an ultrasound examination that includes the collection of ultrasound images, measurements, and report creation, the conventional workflow was to perform the entire ultrasound examination using an ultrasound diagnostic device, or to perform only image collection using an ultrasound diagnostic device. This is done using a workflow in which measurement and report creation are performed using an external measurement device (for example, a workstation). As in the latter case, it is possible to divide labor between image collection and other measurements and report creation, but it is not possible to do more parallel work. In addition, when an expert wants to collect measurement information or report findings, the ultrasound image must be retransmitted to the expert's terminal each time, and the collected measurements and findings must be aggregated. do.

Examples of cases in which experts want to collect measurement information and report findings include the following three cases. First, there is the measurement function of ultrasound examinations (mainly in the field of obstetrics and gynecology), but within the medical industry there is a qualification system for performing specific measurements, and hospitals equipped with ultrasound diagnostic equipment have the qualifications. There may be cases where there is no doctor available, such a doctor is absent, or where it is desired to request a qualified person from another hospital to perform the measurement. Second, in other fields, there are institutions that have proposed algorithms to determine whether a tumor that has developed in an organ is malignant or benign from measured values or ultrasound images; There are times when it should be done by multiple people. Furthermore, in an ultrasonic examination, one doctor or technician is usually used in front of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, so measurements of multiple people or doctors in remote locations cannot be performed simultaneously. Thirdly, in ultrasonic examinations, multiple images are collected in one examination, but in cardiovascular examinations, etc., nearly 70 images are collected and the same measurement may be performed at least five times. There is a need to perform this complicated work in parallel as much as possible.

JP2003-290224A

One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to enable different operators to perform measurements on the same ultrasound image in parallel. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in each embodiment described later can also be positioned as other problems.

The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes a transmitting/receiving section, an image generating section, a transmitting/receiving section that controls transmission and reception of ultrasound, a measurement information receiving section, a communication control section, and a display control section. The transmitting/receiving unit controls transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. The image generation section generates an ultrasound image based on the data received under the control of the transmission/reception section. The measurement information reception unit displays the ultrasound image on the display unit and receives input of first measurement information regarding the ultrasound image. The communication control unit controls the communication unit to transmit the ultrasound image to the measurement device, and also controls the communication unit to receive the second measurement information input by the measurement device. The display control unit causes the display unit to display a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image, and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. .

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an ultrasound system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a second image processing device in the ultrasound system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a third image processing device in the ultrasound system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the ultrasound system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display example of measurement information in the ultrasound system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display example of superimposition information in the ultrasound system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an ultrasound system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the second image processing device in the ultrasound system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example in a first modification of the ultrasound system according to the first to third embodiments. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example in a second modification of the ultrasound system according to the first to third embodiments. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example in a third modification of the ultrasound system according to the first to third embodiments.

Hereinafter, embodiments of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, an image processing apparatus, and an ultrasound system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

The ultrasound system of this embodiment is equipped with a plurality of measurement devices capable of inputting measurement information with respect to an ultrasound image so as to be able to communicate with each other, and a plurality of measurement devices that can input measurement information to any predetermined measurement device can communicate with each other. Display measurement information. Further, the predetermined measuring device displays a plurality of pieces of measurement information input by a plurality of measuring devices during or after the ultrasonic test from the start to the end of the ultrasonic test. In the first embodiment below, an ultrasound system includes an ultrasound diagnostic device as a predetermined measurement device, and the ultrasound diagnostic device uses a plurality of measurement devices (including other ultrasound diagnostic devices) during an ultrasound examination. A case will be described in which a plurality of pieces of measurement information input by the user (not provided) are displayed. Further, in the second embodiment, the ultrasound system includes an ultrasound diagnostic device as a predetermined measurement device, and the ultrasound diagnostic device uses a plurality of measurement devices (including other ultrasound diagnostic devices) during an ultrasound examination. ) will be described below. Further, in the third embodiment, the ultrasound system includes an image processing device as a predetermined measurement device, and the image processing device displays a plurality of pieces of measurement information input by a plurality of measurement devices after an ultrasound examination. I will explain about it.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows an ultrasound system S including an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a first embodiment. The ultrasound system S includes a first measurement device (for example, the ultrasound diagnostic device 1) that are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other, and one or more measurement devices as external devices thereof, for example, two measurement devices (for example, , a second image processing device 50 and a third image processing device 60), and an image management device (for example, an image server) 70.

As shown in FIG. 1, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of the ultrasonic system S includes an apparatus main body 10, an ultrasonic probe 20, an input interface 30, and a display 40. Note that the device main body 10 may include at least one of the ultrasound probe 20, the input interface 30, and the display 40. In the following description, a case will be described in which the ultrasonic probe 20, the input interface 30, and the display 40 are all provided outside the apparatus main body 10.

The apparatus body 10 includes an ultrasound transmitting circuit 11, an ultrasound receiving circuit 12, an image memory 13, a network interface 14, a processing circuit 15, and an external memory 16. The circuits 11 and 12 are configured by application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this case, and all or part of the functions of the circuits 11 and 12 may be realized by the processing circuit 15 executing a computer program.

The ultrasonic transmitting circuit 11 and the ultrasonic receiving circuit 12 control the transmitting directivity and the receiving directivity in transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves under the control of the processing circuit 15. Note that although a case will be described in which both the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 11 and the ultrasonic receiving circuit 12 are provided in the apparatus main body 10, at least one of the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 11 and the ultrasonic receiving circuit 12 is provided in the ultrasonic probe 20. It may be provided in both the apparatus main body 10 and the ultrasonic probe 20.

The ultrasound transmission circuit 11 includes a pulse generation circuit, a transmission delay circuit, and a pulser circuit (not shown), and supplies a drive signal to the ultrasound transducer of the ultrasound probe 20. The pulse generation circuit repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming transmission ultrasound waves at a predetermined repetition frequency (PRF: Pulse Repetition Frequency). The transmission delay circuit adjusts the delay time for each piezoelectric vibrator necessary to focus the ultrasound generated from the ultrasound probe 20 into a beam shape and determine the transmission directivity by adjusting the delay time for each rate pulse generated by the pulse generation circuit. give against. The transmission direction or the transmission delay time that determines the transmission direction is stored in the external memory 16 and is referenced at the time of transmission. The pulser circuit applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to a plurality of ultrasound transducers provided in the ultrasound probe 20 at a timing based on the rate pulse. By changing the delay time given to each rate pulse by the transmission delay circuit, the transmission direction from the piezoelectric vibrator surface can be arbitrarily adjusted.

The ultrasonic transmitting circuit 11 has a function that can instantly change the transmitting frequency, transmitting drive voltage, etc. in order to execute a predetermined scan sequence based on instructions from the processing circuit 18. In particular, the function of changing the transmission drive voltage is realized, for example, by a linear amplifier type oscillation circuit that can instantly switch its value, or by a mechanism that electrically switches a plurality of power supply units.

The ultrasonic reception circuit 12 includes an amplifier circuit (not shown), an A/D (Analog to Digital) conversion circuit, a demodulation circuit, and a beam former, and receives the echo signal received by the ultrasonic transducer. Echo data is generated by performing various processing on the echo signal. Here, in the device main body 10, after delay-adding received RF (Radio Frequency) signals, orthogonal detection (demodulation) is performed to generate an IQ signal consisting of an I (In-phase) signal and a Q (Quadrature-phase) signal. There are two methods: one is to perform orthogonal detection of the RF signal, convert it to IQ baseband, and then perform delay addition to generate an ultrasound image. The former is also called RF beamforming. The latter is also called IQ beamforming. Here, an example of IQ beamforming is shown, but the invention is not limited to that case.

The amplifier circuit amplifies the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasound probe 20 for each channel and performs gain correction processing. At this time, the amplifier circuit changes the gain value according to a predetermined time response, for example. The time response of the gain applied to the received signal in the amplifier circuit is stored in external memory 16. The A/D conversion circuit converts the gain-corrected reflected wave signal into a digital signal. The demodulation circuit converts the digital signal into a baseband IQ signal by demodulating the digital signal that is the output of the A/D conversion circuit. The beamformer gives the IQ signal that is the output of the demodulation circuit a delay time necessary to determine the reception directivity, and adds the IQ signal to which the delay time has been given. Through beamformer processing, a received signal is generated in which reflected components from a direction corresponding to the reception directivity are emphasized. Note that the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 11 and the ultrasonic receiving circuit 12 are examples of a transmitting/receiving section.

The image memory 13 includes, for example, a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a processor-readable recording medium such as a semiconductor memory. Image memory 13 stores a plurality of ultrasound images under the control of processing circuit 15 . Note that the image memory 13 is an example of a storage section.

The network interface 14 implements various information communication protocols depending on the network type. The network interface 14 connects the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 and other devices such as the second image processing apparatus 2 and the third image processing apparatus outside in accordance with these various protocols. For this connection, an electrical connection via an electronic network or the like can be applied. Here, electronic networks refer to information and communication networks in general that utilize telecommunications technology, including wireless/wired hospital-based LANs (Local Area Networks), Internet networks, telephone communication networks, and optical fiber communication networks. , cable communications networks and satellite communications networks.

Additionally, network interface 14 may implement various protocols for contactless wireless communication. In this case, the device main body 10 can directly transmit and receive data to and from the ultrasound probe 20, for example, without going through a network. Note that the network interface 14 is an example of a communication unit.

The processing circuit 15 means a dedicated or general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processor unit), or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), as well as an ASIC, a programmable logic device, and the like. Examples of programmable logic devices include simple programmable logic devices (SPLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Can be mentioned.

Further, the processing circuit 15 may be configured by a single circuit, or may be configured by a combination of a plurality of independent circuit elements. In the latter case, the external memory 16 may be provided individually for each circuit element, or a single external memory 16 may store programs corresponding to the functions of a plurality of circuit elements. Note that the processing circuit 15 is an example of a processing section.

The external memory 16 is composed of a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (random access memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The external memory 16 may be configured by a portable medium such as a USB (universal serial bus) memory or a DVD (digital video disk). The external memory 16 stores various processing programs used in the processing circuit 15 (including an OS (operating system) in addition to application programs) and data necessary for executing the programs. Further, the OS may include a GUI (graphical user interface) that uses graphics extensively to display information on the display 40 to the operator and allows basic operations to be performed using the input interface 30. Note that the external memory 16 is an example of a storage section.

The ultrasonic probe 20 includes a plurality of microscopic vibrators (piezoelectric elements) on its front surface, and transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from an area including a scan target. Each vibrator is an electroacoustic transducer, and has the function of converting an electric pulse into an ultrasonic pulse when transmitting, and converting a reflected wave into an electric signal (received signal) when receiving. The ultrasonic probe 20 is configured to be small and lightweight, and is connected to the apparatus main body 10 via a cable (or wireless communication).

The input interface 30 includes an input device that can be operated by an operator and an input circuit that inputs signals from the input device. Input devices include trackballs, switches, mice, keyboards, touchpads that perform input operations by touching the operating surface, touchscreens that integrate the display screen and touchpad, non-contact input devices that use optical sensors, This is realized by a voice input device, etc. When the input device is operated by the operator, the input circuit generates a signal according to the operation and outputs it to the processing circuit 15. Note that the input interface 30 is an example of an input section.

The display 40 is configured by a general display output device such as a liquid crystal display or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display. The display 40 displays various information under the control of the processing circuit 15. Note that the display 40 is an example of a display section.

Further, the ultrasound system S includes a second image processing device 50 and a third image processing device 60, which are external devices of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1. Both the image processing devices 50 and 60 are connected to equipment such as the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 via a network N so as to be able to transmit and receive data. Examples of the image processing devices 50 and 60 include workstations that perform measurements and various image processing on ultrasound images generated by the ultrasound diagnostic device 1, and portable information processing terminals such as tablet terminals. It will be done. Note that the image processing devices 50 and 60 may be offline devices that can read the ultrasound images generated by the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 via a portable storage medium.

As shown in FIG. 2, the second image processing device 50 includes an input interface 52, a display 53, a network interface 54, a processing circuit 55, and an external memory 56. Note that the configuration of the input interface 52, display 53, network interface 54, processing circuit 55, and external memory 56 is the same as that of the input interface 30, display 40, network interface 14, and processing circuit 15 shown in FIG. and the external memory 16 have the same configuration, so a description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 3, the third image processing device 60 includes an input interface 62, a display 63, a network interface 64, a processing circuit 65, and an external memory 66. Note that the configuration of the input interface 62, display 63, network interface 64, processing circuit 65, and external memory 66 is the same as that of the input interface 30, display 40, network interface 14, and processing circuit 15 shown in FIG. and the external memory 16 have the same configuration, so a description thereof will be omitted.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 1, the image server 70 has a configuration as a computer. For example, the image server 70 is a DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) server, and is connected to equipment such as the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 so as to be able to transmit and receive data via the network N. The image server 70 manages ultrasound images generated by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 as DICOM files (including measurement information and reports).

As shown in FIG. 1, the processing circuit 15 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 performs the B-mode processing function 151 by reading and executing a computer program stored in the external memory 16 or the memory within the processing circuit 15. , a Doppler processing function 152, an image generation function 153, a measurement information reception function 154, a communication control function 155, a display control function 156, a recording control function 157, and a report creation function 158. Hereinafter, a case where the functions 151 to 158 are realized by a computer program will be described as an example, but all or part of the functions 151 to 158 are provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 as a function of a circuit such as an ASIC. It may be something.

The B-mode processing function 151 controls the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 11 and the ultrasonic receiving circuit 12, receives echo data from the ultrasonic receiving circuit 12, performs logarithmic amplification and envelope detection processing, etc., and determines the signal strength. Generate data (two-dimensional or three-dimensional data) expressed by brightness of luminance. This data is generally called B-mode data.

The Doppler processing function 152 analyzes the frequency of the received signal received from the ultrasound receiving circuit 12 to obtain motion information based on the Doppler effect of a moving object within a region of interest (ROI) set as a scan area. This function generates extracted data (Doppler information). The generated Doppler information is stored in a RAW data memory (not shown) as Doppler RAW data (also referred to as Doppler data) on a two-dimensional ultrasound scanning line.

The image generation function 153 generates an ultrasound image as image data based on the echo signal received by the ultrasound probe 20. For example, the image generation function 153 generates, as an ultrasound image, a B-mode image in which the intensity of reflected waves is expressed by brightness from the two-dimensional B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing function 151. The image generation function 153 also generates an average velocity image, a dispersion image, a power image representing movement information from the two-dimensional Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing function 152 as an ultrasound image, or a combination image thereof. Generate color Doppler images.

Here, the image generation function 153 generally converts (scan convert) a scanning line signal sequence of ultrasonic scanning into a scanning line signal sequence of a video format typified by television, etc. Generate an image. Specifically, the image generation function 153 generates an ultrasound image for display by performing coordinate transformation according to the scanning form of ultrasound by the ultrasound probe 20.

The measurement information receiving function 154 includes a function of receiving input of first measurement information for the ultrasound image displayed on the display 40 by the display control function 156. Here, measurement information refers to a measurement area (such as a caliper), a measurement value, etc. that is attached to an ultrasound image for the purpose of observing the ultrasound image again later or for the purpose of observation by another person. do. The first measurement region R1 and the measurement value V1 attached to the ultrasound image are illustrated in FIG. 5(A). The external memory 16 stores measurement information in association with ultrasound images in groups that have been given clinical meaning by the operator.

The external memory 16 stores the measurement information in association with the ultrasound image. Examples of storage formats for measurement information include the DICOM overlay format and the DICOM GSPS (Gray Scale Presentation State) format.

First, in the case of the DICOM overlay format, the measurement information is incorporated into the ultrasound image file as DICOM overlay information. Therefore, in the case of the DICOM overlay format, the external memory 16 stores an ultrasound image file that includes a superimposed image in which measurement information is superimposed on an ultrasound image and supplementary information.

Second, in the case of the DICOM/GSPS format, the measurement information is incorporated into the supplementary information of the ultrasound image file as DICOM/GSPS data. Therefore, in the case of the DICOM/GSPS format, the external memory 16 stores an ultrasound image file including an ultrasound image and supplementary information including measurement information. Note that in the case of the DICOM/GSPS format, the measurement information may be managed in a file separate from the ultrasound image file.

The communication control function 155 controls the network interface 14 to transmit the ultrasound image generated by the image generation function 153 to the second image processing device 50 (and/or the third image processing device 60), and 2 includes a function of controlling the network interface 14 to receive the second measurement information inputted by the image processing device 50. The second image processing device 50 is for inputting second measurement information for the same ultrasound image by different operators, as will be described later. Furthermore, the communication control function 155 includes a function of controlling the network interface 14 to transmit the report created by the report creation function 158 to the image server 70.

The display control function 156 includes a function of displaying the ultrasound image generated by the image generation function 153 on the display 40. The display control function 156 also generates a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image generated by the image generation function 153, and a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. It includes a function of displaying the second superimposed image on the display 40. The display control function 156 also includes a function of displaying measurement information for each operator on the display 40 when creating a report.

As described above, according to the functions 154 to 156, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 can input and display the first measurement information for the generated ultrasound image, and can input and display the second measurement information for the same ultrasound image. The second measurement information input by the image processing device 50 (and/or the third image processing device 60) can be displayed.

The recording control function 157 associates the first measurement information input by the measurement information reception function 154, the second measurement information and the third measurement information received by the communication control function 155 with the ultrasound image, and records the information externally. It includes a function to control recording in the memory 16. Thereby, all pieces of measurement information for the same ultrasound image can be stored in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 as one test result.

Report creation functionality 158 includes functionality to create reports regarding ultrasound images based on input via input interface 30. This makes it possible to create an integrated report that takes into account a plurality of pieces of measurement information attached to ultrasound images at a plurality of locations.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the processing circuit 55 of the second image processing device 50 receives measurement information by reading and executing a computer program stored in the external memory 56 or the memory within the processing circuit 55. A function 554, a communication control function 555, and a display control function 556 are realized. Hereinafter, a case where the functions 554 to 556 are realized by a computer program will be described as an example, but all or part of the functions 554 to 556 may be provided in the second image processing device 50 as a function of a circuit such as an ASIC. It may be something that can be done.

The measurement information receiving function 554 includes a function of receiving input of second measurement information for the ultrasound image displayed on the display 53 by the display control function 556. The measurement information is as described above. The second measurement region R2 and measurement value V2 attached to the ultrasound image are illustrated in FIG. 5(B).

The communication control function 555 has a function of controlling the network interface 54 to receive ultrasound images from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1, and a function of controlling the network interface 54 to receive ultrasound images from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1, and transmitting the second measurement information inputted by the second image processing apparatus 50 to an external device (for example, It includes a function of controlling the network interface 54 to transmit data to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 and/or the third image processing apparatus 60). Here, when the DICOM/overlay format is adopted, the communication control function 555 may transmit the entire ultrasound image file as measurement information, or add measurement information to the ultrasound image in the ultrasound image file. You may also transmit a superimposed image in which the On the other hand, when the DICOM/GSPS format is adopted, the communication control function 555 may transmit the entire ultrasound image file as the measurement information, or transmit the measurement information included in the ultrasound image file. Additional information may also be transmitted.

The display control function 556 includes a function of displaying the ultrasound image from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 received by the communication control function 555 on the display 53.

As described above, according to the functions 554 to 556, the second image processing device 50 inputs the second measurement information regarding the ultrasound image received from the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 and transmits the measurement information to the ultrasound diagnostic device 1. can be sent to.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 65 of the third image processing device 60 receives measurement information by reading and executing a computer program stored in the external memory 66 or the memory within the processing circuit 65. A function 654, a communication control function 655, and a display control function 656 are realized. In the following, a case where the functions 654 to 656 are realized by a computer program will be described as an example, but all or part of the functions 654 to 656 may be provided in the third image processing device 60 as a function of a circuit such as an ASIC. It may be something that can be done.

Note that the functions 654 to 656 are the same functions as the functions 554 to 556 of the second image processing device 50, so a description thereof will be omitted. The third measurement region R3 and measurement value V3 attached to the ultrasound image are illustrated in FIG. 5(C). As described above, according to the functions 654 to 656, the third image processing device 60 inputs the second measurement information regarding the ultrasound image received from the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 and transmits the measurement information to the ultrasound diagnostic device 1. can be sent to.

Next, the operation of the ultrasound system S will be explained using FIGS. 4 to 6. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 4, the symbol "ST" with a number indicates each step. Note that when the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 generates two superimposed images, that is, the ultrasonic system S generates two superimposed images (the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 operated by operator X and the second image operated by operator Y). A case in which a processing device 50) is provided will be described. The operation of the third image processing device 60 operated by the operator Z is similar to that of the second image processing device 50. For example, operators Y and Z are experts, such as qualified personnel from other hospitals.

For example, after receiving test order information from a test requesting device (not shown) such as HIS (Hospital Information Systems), the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 accepts an instruction to start an ultrasound test (step ST1). When the operator X places the tip of the ultrasound probe 20 on the patient's body surface toward the observation target, the ultrasound transmission circuit 11 and the ultrasound reception circuit 12 start an ultrasound scan using the ultrasound probe 20. do. The image generation function 153 generates an ultrasound image (step ST2). The communication control function 155 transmits the ultrasound image to the second image processing device 50 via the network interface 14 (step ST3). The communication control function 555 of the second image processing device 50 receives the ultrasound image from the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 via the network interface 54 (step ST4).

The display control function 156 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 causes the display 40 to display the ultrasound image generated in step ST2 (step ST5). Then, the measurement information receiving function 154 receives input of the first measurement information for the ultrasound image displayed on the display 40 in step ST5 (step ST6). The operator X who operates the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 inputs the first measurement information onto the ultrasound image via the input interface 30 while referring to the displayed ultrasound image. The first measurement region R1 and the measurement value V1 attached to the ultrasound image are illustrated in FIG. 5(A). For example, the measurement region is information indicating the boundary of the tumor range determined by a doctor or the like, and the measurement value is a value indicating the area of the tumor range.

On the other hand, the display control function 556 of the second image processing device 50 causes the display 53 to display the ultrasound image received in step ST4 (step ST7). Then, the measurement information reception function 554 receives input of second measurement information for the ultrasound image displayed on the display 53 in step ST7 (step ST8). Operator Y who operates the second image processing device 50 inputs second measurement information onto the ultrasound image via the input interface 52 while referring to the displayed ultrasound image. The second measurement region R2 and measurement value V2 attached to the ultrasound image are illustrated in FIG. 5(B). Through steps ST6 and ST8, measurement information can be input in parallel by operator Y, who is different from operator X, for the same ultrasound image.

Subsequently, the communication control function 555 of the second image processing device 50 transmits the second measurement information to the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 via the network interface 54 (step ST9). The communication control function 155 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 receives the second measurement information from the second image processing apparatus 50 via the network interface 14 (step ST10). Similarly, the communication control function 155 receives third measurement information from the third image processing device 60 via the network interface 14. The third measurement region R3 and measurement value V3 attached to the ultrasound image are illustrated in FIG. 5(C).

The recording control function 157 records the first measurement information input in step ST6 and the second measurement information and third measurement information received in step ST10 in the external memory 16 in association with the ultrasound image. (Step ST11). The display control function 156 displays a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information input in step ST6 is superimposed on the ultrasound image, and a first superimposed image in which the second measurement information received in step ST10 is superimposed on the ultrasound image. The second superimposed image thus obtained is displayed on the display 40 (step ST12).

FIG. 6 shows a display example of the first superimposed image, the second superimposed image, and the third superimposed image. FIG. 6(A) shows a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image, a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image, and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. An example is shown in which a third superimposed image on which measurement information of No. 3 is superimposed is displayed in parallel. That is, in FIG. 6(A), measurement information for each operator X, Y, and Z is displayed in parallel. Moreover, FIG. 6(B) shows a superimposed image in which the first measurement information, the second measurement information, and the third measurement information (for example, measurement region) are superimposed on the ultrasound image. That is, in FIG. 6(B), measurement information for each operator X, Y, and Z is displayed in an overlapping manner. Note that in FIG. 6(B), the first measurement information, the second measurement information, and the third measurement information may each be displayed as measurement values. In this way, the operator It is possible to judge the suitability of information. Therefore, the operator X of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 can create an appropriate report.

The report creation function 158 creates a report regarding the ultrasound image generated in step ST2 based on the input via the input interface 30 (step ST13). The communication control function 155 transmits the created report to the image server 70. Then, the ultrasonic examination started in step ST1 is ended (step ST14).

As described above, according to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, different operators X, Y, and Z simultaneously view the same ultrasonic image from the start to the end of the ultrasonic examination. measurements can be carried out. Further, according to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1, measurement information input independently for the same ultrasound image can be mutually confirmed between the start and end of an ultrasound examination, and which The operator can identify which measurement information corresponds to.

Note that when the report creation function 158 creates a report, the recording control function 157 associates the findings corresponding to the first measurement information and the findings corresponding to the second measurement information with the ultrasound image for each input operator. It may also be controlled to record in the external memory 16. In that case, the display control function 156 causes the display 40 to display findings corresponding to the first measurement information and findings corresponding to the second measurement information for each input operator when the report creation function 158 creates a report. be able to. Thereby, in addition to collecting measurement information by experts, it is possible to efficiently collect findings in reports.

(Second embodiment)
Although the second image processing device 50 generates second measurement information by a different operator, the present invention is not limited to this case. The second measurement information by different operators may be generated by different ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses 1A. The configuration of the ultrasonic system S in that case is illustrated in FIG. In FIG. 7, the "second image processing device 50" in FIG. 1 is replaced with "ultrasound diagnostic device 1A." The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1A has the same configuration as the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1.

The communication control function 155 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 receives the second measurement information from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1A operated by the operator Y via the network interface 14. Similarly, the communication control function 155 receives third measurement information from the third image processing device 60 operated by the operator Z via the network interface 14 .

The display control function 156 displays on the display 40 a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image, and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. (Display similar to Fig. 6). Before creating a report regarding ultrasound images, operator can be judged. Therefore, the operator X of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 can create an appropriate report.

As described above, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment can provide the same effects as the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
In the first and second embodiments described above, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 was described as displaying a plurality of pieces of measurement information during the ultrasound examination, which is from the start to the end of the ultrasound examination. It is not limited to the case. For example, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 may display a plurality of pieces of measurement information for re-measurement or educational purposes (Off-JT) after the end of an ultrasound examination, or the second image processing apparatus 50 may display a plurality of pieces of measurement information. However, a plurality of pieces of measurement information may be displayed after the ultrasonic examination is completed. Here, the latter will be explained. The configuration of the ultrasonic system S in that case is illustrated in FIG. In FIG. 8, the second image processing device 50 in FIG. 2 further includes a recording control function 557 and a report creation function 558.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processing circuit 55 of the second image processing device 50 reads and executes a computer program stored in the external memory 56 or the memory within the processing circuit 55, thereby providing a measurement information receiving function 554. , a communication control function 555, a display control function 556, a recording control function 557, and a report creation function 558. Hereinafter, a case where the functions 554 to 558 are realized by a computer program will be described as an example, but all or part of the functions 554 to 558 may be provided in the second image processing device 50 as a function of a circuit such as an ASIC. It may be something that can be done.

Note that in FIG. 8, the same members as those of the second image processing device 50 shown in FIG. 2 are given the same reference numerals, and explanations thereof will be omitted. However, the communication control function 555 controls the ultrasonic image generated by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 and stored in the image server 70 to be received.

Like the recording control function 157 (shown in FIG. 2), the recording control function 557 includes a function of controlling the first to third measurement information to be recorded in the external memory 56 in association with the ultrasound image. Thereby, all of the plurality of pieces of measurement information for the same ultrasound image can be stored in the second image processing device 50 as one examination result.

Report generation function 558, similar to report generation function 158 (shown in FIG. 2), includes the ability to generate reports regarding ultrasound images based on input via input interface 52. This makes it possible to create an integrated report that takes into account a plurality of pieces of measurement information attached to ultrasound images at a plurality of locations.

As described above, according to the second image processing device 50 according to the third embodiment, after an ultrasound examination, the same ultrasound image is An operator can perform measurements in parallel. Further, according to the second image processing device 50, after an ultrasound examination, it is possible to mutually check the measurement information input independently for the same ultrasound image, and which operator can perform which measurement. It is possible to identify what information corresponds to.

(First modification)
In the first to third embodiments described above, the recording control function 157 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 shown in FIG. The function 158 may be configured to allow the operator to select a desired finding from the findings recorded in the external memory 16. When operators X, Y, and Z are set, the display control function 156 is configured to display a plurality of findings input by operators X, Y, and Z in the past and their number of observations on a worksheet or the like. It's okay. FIG. 9 shows an example of displaying a plurality of findings and their frequency. Figure 9 shows measurement information consisting of the average value (5.3 cm ² ) of the measurements by the operator (Dr) X, Y, and Z, findings (malignant tumor), and details of findings (malignant tumor: 2, Tumor: 1).

Although the first modification example has been described using the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 (first and second embodiments) shown in FIG. 1, the second image processing apparatus 50 (third embodiment) shown in FIG. ) may be used to realize the first variant.

According to the first modification, the operator can consider the report he/she has created while referring to the findings corresponding to the number of times the operator has been selected in the past, thus creating the final report to be sent to the image server 70. can support the work.

(Second modification)
In the first to third embodiments described above, the recording control function 157 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 shown in FIG. The function 158 may be configured to allow the operator to select a desired finding from the findings recorded in the external memory 16. When operators X, Y, and Z are set, the display control function 156 displays which operator's findings were finally adopted. Furthermore, the display control function 156 can search past findings registered in the external memory 16 and display trends for each operator (such as whether the finding is likely to be malignant).

Although the second modification example has been described using the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 (first and second embodiments) shown in FIG. 1, the second image processing apparatus 50 (third embodiment) shown in FIG. ) may be used to realize a second variant.

According to the second variant, it is possible for an operator to examine the report he or she has created by checking which findings of other operators he or she has finally adopted and the trends of each operator. Therefore, it is possible to support the creation of the final report to be sent to the image server 70.

(Third modification)
In the first to third embodiments described above, at least one of the voice when inputting measurement information and findings by the ultrasound diagnostic device 1, etc., and the key history by the ultrasound diagnostic device 1, etc. is transmitted to the ultrasound diagnostic device 1. It can be recorded in the external memory 16 in association with time information for each operator, or displayed on the display 40. FIG. 11 shows an example of displaying the audio file and key history. FIG. 11 shows audio files and key history arranged in chronological order. It also shows measurement information (for example, measurement values) corresponding to the audio file and key history. The operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 can open an audio file, listen to the audio, refer to the key history, and consider the measurement information and report that he or she has created.

Although the third modification example has been described using the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 (first and second embodiments) shown in FIG. 1, the second image processing apparatus 50 (third embodiment) shown in FIG. ) may be used to realize a third variation.

According to the third modification, the operator of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 can easily inquire about the circumstances leading to the measurements and findings later by recording the circumstances that led to the measurements and findings. , can support the creation of a final report to be sent to the image server 70.

According to at least one embodiment described above, different operators can perform measurements on the same ultrasound image in parallel.

Note that the B-mode processing function 151 is an example of a B-mode processing section. The Doppler processing function 152 is an example of a Doppler processing unit. The image generation function 153 is an example of an image generation section. The measurement information reception functions 154, 554, and 654 are examples of measurement information reception units. The communication control functions 155, 555, and 655 are examples of communication control units. The display control functions 156, 556, and 656 are examples of display control units. The recording control function 157, 557 is an example of a recording control section. The report creation function 158, 558 is an example of a report creation section.

Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and without departing from the gist of the invention, various omissions, substitutions, changes, combinations of embodiments, and combinations of embodiments and one or more embodiments. Combinations with multiple variants can be made. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and gist of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

1,1A...Ultrasonic diagnostic device 15...Processing circuit 20...Ultrasonic probe 30...Input interface 40...Display 151...B mode processing function 152...Doppler processing function 153...Image generation function 154, 554, 654...Measurement information reception function 155,555,655...Communication control function 156,556,656...Display control function 157,557...Record control function 158,558...Report creation function 50...Second image processing device 60...Third image processing device 70...Image server

Claims (8)

a transmitter/receiver unit that controls transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves;
an image generation unit that generates an ultrasound image based on the data received under the control of the transmission and reception unit;
a display control unit that displays the ultrasound image on a display unit;
a measurement information reception unit that receives input of first measurement information for the ultrasound image displayed on the display unit;
a communication control unit that controls the communication unit to transmit the ultrasound image to the measurement device, and also controls the communication unit to receive second measurement information input by the measurement device;
Equipped with
The display control unit may display a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image, and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. display on the display section;
An ultrasonic diagnostic device equipped with. The display control unit displays the first superimposed image and the second superimposed image on the display unit from the start to the end of the ultrasound examination.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. The display control unit causes the first superimposed image and the second superimposed image to be displayed on the display unit after the ultrasound examination ends.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. a recording control unit that controls the first measurement information and the second measurement information to be recorded in a storage unit in association with the ultrasound image;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a report creation unit that creates a report regarding the ultrasound image based on input via the input unit;
Furthermore,
The display control section causes the display section to display the first measurement information and the second measurement information for each input operator when the report creation section creates the report.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4. The display control unit causes the display unit to display findings corresponding to the first measurement information and findings corresponding to the second measurement information for each input operator when the report creation unit creates a report. ,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5. a measurement information reception unit that displays an ultrasound image on a display unit and receives input of first measurement information for the ultrasound image;
a communication control unit that controls the communication unit to receive second measurement information input by the measurement device;
Displaying on the display unit a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. a display control section;
An image processing device comprising: An ultrasound system in which a first device and a second device are communicably connected,
The first device includes:
a measurement information reception unit that displays an ultrasound image on a display unit and receives input of first measurement information for the ultrasound image;
a communication control unit that controls a communication unit to receive second measurement information input by the second device;
Displaying on the display unit a first superimposed image in which the first measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image and a second superimposition image in which the second measurement information is superimposed on the ultrasound image. a display control section;
has
The second device includes:
a measurement information reception unit that displays the ultrasound image on a display unit and receives input of the second measurement information for the ultrasound image;
a communication control unit that controls a communication unit to transmit the second measurement information to the first device;
Ultrasonic system with.

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