JP4282957B2 - Medical diagnostic system, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, information display apparatus, and control method for medical diagnostic system - Google Patents

Description

【００５０】
次にワークフロー処理プログラムは検査名の一覧から検査名を選択できるよう入力待ちの状態になり、これに対して検査者は操作パネル１６等を操作して実施する検査名を選択する（ステップＳ２）。
【００５１】
次にワークフロー処理プログラムは、ステップＳ２で選択された検査名に対応するワークフローデータを読み出し、ワークフローデータ中に定義されているアクティビティの配列を検査者用モニタ１３上にアイコンを用いて表示する（ステップＳ３）。検査者用モニタ１３上には各アクティビティに対応する複数のアイコンが実行順に並んで表示され、検査者はこのアイコンの配列を見ることにより検査の流れを直感的に把握することができる。
【００５２】
次にワークフロー処理プログラムは、最初に実行するアクティビティを選択すると共に、このアクティビティに対応する検査者用モニタ１３上のアイコンを色変えやサイズ変更等により強調して、実行中のアクティビティを検査者が把握できるようにする（ステップＳ４）。
【００５３】
次にワークフロー処理プログラムは、選択されたアクティビティに定義された動作を実行し、そのアクティビティに定義されている動作に応じて、超音波診断装置の設定変更、検査者へのメッセージの表示等の動作を行う。この時、アクティビティに被検者への提供情報の提供開始、提供情報の変更、提供中止等の動作が定義されている場合は、それに応じて被検者に提供する画像や音声の内容を変更する（ステップＳ５）。尚、提供情報は内部記憶装置７に予め複数種類の動画像、アニメーション、音声、メッセージ等を記憶しておき、これらの中からどの情報を提供するかをアクティビティに定義しておけば良い。
【００５４】
アクティビティの実行が終了すると、ワークフロー処理プログラムは次のアクティビティの選択をし、選択したアクティビティのアイコンを検査者用モニタ上で強調する（ステップＳ６）。この選択したアクティビティが”終了”のアクティビティである場合は、ワークフロー処理を終了し、それ以外の場合はステップＳ５に戻り選択したアクティビティの実行を行う。
【００５５】
尚、上述した例では配列されたアクティビティが順に実行されているが、アクティビティが順次実行されてゆく途中で医師が検査者用モニタ１３に表示されている任意のアクティビティアイコンをマウス等の操作で選択することにより実行するアクティビティは任意に変更することができる。この場合も、変更、選択されたアクティビティに対応する動作（被検者への提供情報の提供を含む）が行われる。
【００５６】
上述したフローチャートに従って処理を行うと共に、被検者用モニタ１７にはプログレスバー１７ｃを表示し、被検者が検査の残り時間を把握できるようにする。プログレスバー１７ｃは、全体の検査時間を表した枠と、その枠内を検査の進行時間に応じて長さの変わるバーによって構成されている。全体の検査時間は、各ワークフローデータに予め代表的な全体の検査時間を対応付けて記憶しておいたものを用いるか、又は、各アクティビティに代表的な検査時間を対応付けて記憶しておき、ワークフローデータで使用するアクティビティの検査時間の合計を求めたものを用いる。進行時間は、検査での実際の経過時間を、アクティビティの切替等に連動して補正して求める。このようなプログレスバー１７ｃを表示することにより、被検者は、全体の検査の内でどの程度検査が進んでいるか、又、検査終了まで後どの位かかるかということを知ることができる。
【００５７】
なお、検査時間に係る情報の表示については上記の例に制限されることなく、グラフ形態での表示や文字のみによる表示形態、その他通常知られる時間情報表示形態を含め、検査の所要予定時間のみの表示や残り検査時間のみの表示、あるいはこれらの組合せや所要予定時間に対する現在の経過時間の表示などについて、いかなる形態による表示であっても良い。なお、表示はモニタへの視覚表示に限らず、被検者用スピーカ・マイクを通じた音表示であってもよい。
【００５８】
一方、検査者が操作パネル１６を操作してカメラ像の表示を指示すると、検査者用カメラ１５で撮影された検査者の画像が被検者用モニタ１７の小画面１７ｂ部分に表示され、被検者用カメラ１９で撮影された被検者の画像が検査者用モニタ１３の小画面１３ｅ部分に表示される。この時、検査者と被検者は、検査者用スピーカ・マイク１４と被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８を通じて相互に会話できるようになり、相手の表情等を見ながら会話をすることができるようになる。
【００５９】
又、検査者用カメラ１５及び被検者用カメラ１９で撮影された画像や、検査者用スピーカ・マイク１４及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８で収集された音声を、通信線２１を介して検査室外の遠隔した場所にあるコンピュータに送信し、そのコンピュータ上で検査の状況や被検者の状態を他の医師（主治医）等が観察できるようにしても良い。
【００６０】
この場合、前記他の医師の場所にも同医師を撮影するための医師用カメラ及び医師の声を送ったり他者の声を聞いたりするための医師用スピーカ・マイクを設置すれば、この医師用カメラで撮影された医師の姿や顔などを前記通信線２１を介して検査者用モニタ１３や被検者用モニタ１７にて表示させることが可能になる。また、医師の音声も前記通信線２１を介して検査者用スピーカ・マイク１４や被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８にて聞こえるようにすることが可能になる。
【００６１】
このようにすることで、医師は検査者とお互いの顔を見ながら診断状況について話をしたり、被検者ともお互いに顔を見ながら問診することができるようになる。
【００６２】
次に本発明の超音波診断装置を用いた検査例について説明する。
【００６３】
図４は、ワークフロー処理の一例を示しており、左側にワークフロー中のアクティビティ、中央はアクティビティに対応する検査者及び被検者の作業、右側はアクティビティに対応する被検者への提供情報を示している。
【００６４】
先ずワークフロー処理プログラムは最初のアクティビティ”被検者登録”（ステップＳ４１）を実行し、検査者用モニタ１３に被検者登録を行うための画面を表示する。これと共に、ワークフロー処理プログラムは被検者用モニタ１７に「ベッド上に横になってください。」という文字のメッセージと横たわり方を表すアニメーション像（提供情報Ａ）を表示し、被検者はこの指示に従ってベッド上に横になる。
【００６５】
被検者がベッド上に寝たことを確認した後に検査者が完了ボタンを押すと、ワークフロー処理プログラムは次のアクティビティである”心電計準備”（ステップＳ４２）を実行し、検査者用モニタに心電計の準備を促すメッセージを表示する。これと共にワークフロー処理プログラムは、心電図をモニタする目的、心電図によって診断可能な疾病の内容、安全性（例えば、皮膚に装着するセンサーは、感電の危険は無い等）等の情報（提供情報Ｂ）を被検者用モニタ１７及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８を用いて映像、文字、アニメーション像、音声等で提供する。これを受けながら、被検者は心電計を装着することになる。
【００６６】
心電計の準備が完了した後に検査者が完了ボタンを押すと、ワークフロー処理プログラムは次のアクティビティである”通常超音波診断”（ステップＳ４３）を実行し、アクティビティに対応付けて予め定められている条件に基づいて超音波診断装置のモード切替え（Ｂモード、ＣＦＭモード等の切替え）や送受信条件の切替えを行うと共に、検査者用モニタ１３に通常超音波診断を促すメッセージを表示する。検査者は、このメッセージに従い、被検者に対して音響ジェルの塗布などを行った後、検査部位及び検査部位周辺等の超音波像を見て全体的な観察を行う。
【００６７】
この時同時に、ワークフロー処理プログラムは超音波診断の内容及び目的、超音波診断によってどのような疾病が診断可能か、あるいは超音波診断の安全性についての説明（提供情報Ｃ）を被検者用モニタ１７及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８から提供する。
【００６８】
通常超音波診断が完了した後に検査者が完了ボタンを押すと、ワークフロー処理プログラムは次のアクティビティである”造影準備”（ステップＳ４４）を実行し、検査者用モニタ１３に超音波造影診断の準備を促すメッセージを表示する。検査者は、このメッセージに従い超音波造影診断の準備を行う。この時同時に、ワークフロー処理プログラムは、超音波造影診断の内容及び目的、超音波造影診断によってどのような疾病が診断可能か等の説明と、これらの説明終了後に被検者に精神的な快適感を与えるための風景、絵画の映像や音楽等の情報（提供情報Ｄ）を被検者用モニタ１７及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８から提供する。また、小児に対してはテレビ放送、アニメーション像、歌等の幼児向けの画像及び音声を提供するようにしても良い。
【００６９】
この後に検査者が完了ボタンを順次押すことにより、ワークフロー処理プログラムは”造影検査１”（ステップＳ４５）、”造影検査２”（ステップＳ４６）、”レポート表示”（ステップＳ４７）のアクティビティを順次実行し、この間、先の提供情報Ｄの提供を継続して行う。尚、造影検査１では造影剤投与後の初期相、中期相、後期相の超音波像の観察（検査）を行い、造影検査２では計測プログラムを起動して超音波像から血流量等の定量値を求める検査を行い、レポート表示では算出した定量値の一覧及び検査者のコメント等をレポートとして検査者用モニタ１３に表示して確認する。
【００７０】
表示されたレポートの確認が完了した後に検査者が完了ボタンを押すと、ワークフロー処理プログラムは次のアクティビティである”検査結果説明”（ステップＳ４８）を実行し、収集した超音波像等を検査者用モニタ１３に表示すると共に被検者用モニタ１７に同じ画像を表示（提供情報Ｅ）する。この時、両モニタ上には、操作パネル１６のマウス等の操作に連動して移動するカーソルアイコンが表示されており、検査者は、このカーソルアイコンで超音波像の一部を指示しながら音声も交えて被検者に検査結果の説明を行う。
【００７１】
次に完了ボタンが押されると、ワークフロー処理プログラムは”保存”（ステップＳ４９）のアクティビティを実行し、収集した超音波像やレポートの情報を検査結果として内部記憶装置７に保存する。
【００７２】
尚、超音波像やレポートの情報は、別途設けられている病院内のデータ保管装置にネットワーク経由でデータを送信して保存するようにしても良い。
【００７３】
この時、ワークフロー処理プログラムは、病室へ戻る、薬局へ行く等の検査終了後の指示、及び、各場所へ移動するための病院内の案内図等（提供情報Ｆ）を被検者用モニタ１７及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８から提供する。
【００７４】
保存が終了すると、”終了”（ステップＳ５０）アクティビティが実行され、その後に完了ボタンが押されるとワークフロー処理は終了（検査終了）する。
【００７５】
このような第１の実施の形態によれば、ワークフローデータの種類（検査の種類）及びワークフロー処理の進行に連動して提供情報の内容が切替わり、検査内容の説明、検査中の指示、検査結果の情報、精神的に快適感を与えるための映像及び音声等を検査中の適切なタイミングで患者に提供することができる。これにより、被検者への検査内容の説明が適切に行われるため被検者の不安感及び退屈感を軽減でき、また、座位、仰臥位、側臥位等の体位変更の指示が適切に分かりやすく提示されるため検査の進行が良好になり検査効率を向上することができる。
【００７６】
なお、随時必要に応じて検査者が音声やカメラ映像で割込み、体位の微調整指示などを可能とすることで、より質の高い検査を実施することが可能である。
【００７７】
また、これらの情報提供はワークフローデータの種類（検査の種類）及びワークフロー処理の進行に対応して切替えられるので、検査者が提供情報の切替えのために煩雑な作業を行う必要がなく、検査効率の向上を図ることができる。
【００７８】
さらに、提供情報の内容は被検者登録で登録された年齢、性別、病状等の情報に対応して変更するようにしても良く、このように年齢、性別、病状等の情報に応じて提供情報を変えることにより、被検者に対してさらに適切な情報提供を行うことができる。
【００７９】
加えて、検査時間にかかる情報も提供できるので、被検者が全体の検査の内でどの程度検査が進んでいるか、又、検査終了まで後どの位かかるかということを知ることができ、これによって、被検者の退屈感、不安感等を軽減することができる。
（第２の実施の形態）
第１の実施の形態は超音波診断装置本体１内でワークフロー処理及び被検者用の画像及び音声の生成を行うものであったが、第２の実施の形態はワークフロー処理及び被検者用の画像及び音声の生成を外部のＰＣにより行うものである。
【００８０】
図５（Ａ）は、第２の実施の形態である超音波診断システムを示すものであり、以下に説明を記す。尚、第１の実施の形態と同じ構成については説明を省略する。
【００８１】
超音波診断システムは、超音波診断装置２３、ワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４、画像表示用ＰＣ２５を備えており、これらは病院内ＬＡＮ又はＲＳ２３２Ｃ等の通信線２６により相互に通信可能に接続されている。また、超音波診断装置２３は検査者用モニタ２３ａ、ワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４はワークフローナビゲーション用モニタ２４ａ、画像表示用ＰＣ２５は被検者用モニタ２５ａを備えている。
【００８２】
ワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４及び画像表示用ＰＣ２５は、一般に市販されているＰＣであり、ＣＰＵ、メモリ、磁気記憶装置、バス、キーボードやマウス等の入力手段を備えている。ワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４はワークフロー処理プログラム及びワークフローデータを、画像表示用ＰＣ２５は画像表示用プログラム及び提供情報の画像データや音声データ等をそれぞれの磁気記憶装置に記憶している。
【００８３】
ワークフロー処理プログラムは、ワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４上で実行され第１の実施の形態で説明したものとほぼ同様に動作する。ワークフロー処理プログラムは、ワークフローナビゲーション用モニタ２４ａ上に検査名の一覧表示、アクティビティに対応するアイコン等の表示を行うと共に各アクティビティを順次実行する。ワークフロー処理プログラムは、各アクティビティに定義されている内容に対応した制御信号を通信線２６経由で超音波診断装置２３及び画像表示用ＰＣ２５に送る。この制御信号に応じて、超音波診断装置２３は装置動作の切替えを行い、画像表示用ＰＣ２５は情報提供の開始終了及び提供情報の内容の切替え等を行う。実行するアクティビティの移行は、ワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４のキーボードやマウスへの入力に基づいて行っても良いし、超音波診断装置２３の装置動作状態にかかる情報や操作パネル１６への入力情報を通信線２６経由でワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４に送ってその内容に応じて行うようにしても良い。
【００８４】
このような第２の実施の形態によれば、第１の実施の形態と同様に検査の進行に連動して被検者に提供する情報の内容を切替えることができる。又、超音波診断装置外部のＰＣによりワークフロー処理を行う構成であるため、ワークフロー処理機能を有していない超音波診断装置でもワークフロー処理及び被検者への情報提供を行うことができる。又、病院内ＬＡＮにより接続する場合、病院内ＬＡＮに接続可能な場所であれば各装置の移動や配置を比較的容易に行うことができる。
【００８５】
なお、ワークフロー処理プログラムがワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４上にある本実施の形態の場合でも、検査項目の一覧表示、アクティビティに対応するアイコン等の表示は、病院内ＬＡＮ又はＲＳ２３２Ｃ等の通信線２６を介して超音波診断装置２３の検査者用モニタ２３ａにて行われるようにしてもよい。
【００８６】
また、本実施の形態ではワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４を設けてそこにワークフロー処理プログラムやワークフローデータを記憶させる場合について説明したが、これらのプログラムやデータを画像表示用ＰＣ２５に記憶させるようにしてもよい。この場合、ワークフローに係る表示（検査項目の一覧表示、アクティビティに対応するアイコン等の表示）を病院内ＬＡＮ又はＲＳ２３２Ｃ等の通信線２６を介して超音波診断装置２３の検査者用モニタ２３ａにて行われるようにすればワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ２４を設けることなく本実施の形態を実現できる。
（第３の実施の形態）
第１の実施の形態は超音波診断装置本体１内で被検者用の画像及び音声の生成を行うものであったが、第３の実施の形態は被検者用の画像及び音声の生成を外部のＰＣにより行うものである。
【００８７】
図５（Ｂ）は、第３の実施の形態である超音波診断システムを示すものであり、以下に説明を記す。尚、第１の実施の形態と同じ構成については説明を省略する。
【００８８】
超音波診断システムは、超音波診断装置２７、画像表示用ＰＣ２５を備えており、これらは病院内ＬＡＮ又はＲＳ２３２Ｃ等の通信線２６により相互に通信可能に接続されている。また、超音波診断装置２７は検査者用モニタ２７ａを備えている。
【００８９】
ワークフロー処理プログラムは、超音波診断装置２７上で実行され第１の実施の形態で説明したものとほぼ同様に動作する。ワークフロー処理プログラムは、検査者用モニタ２７ａ上に検査項目の一覧表示、アクティビティに対応するアイコン等の表示を行うと共に各アクティビティを順次実行する。ワークフロー処理プログラムは、各アクティビティに定義されている内容に対応した制御信号を通信線２６経由で画像表示用ＰＣ２５に送る。この制御信号に応じて、画像表示用ＰＣ２５は自装置で被検者用に生成した画像及び処理した音声による情報提供の開始／終了及び提供情報の内容の切替え等を行う。
【００９０】
このような構成によっても第１の実施の形態と同様の効果を得ることができる。又、被検者への提供情報の処理は画像表示用ＰＣ２５で行われるため超音波診断装置にかかる処理の負荷を軽減することができる。
【００９１】
なお、画像表示用ＰＣ２５において提供情報のための画像生成や音声処理が行われるため、第２の実施の形態と同様、画像表示用プログラムや提供情報の画像データ／音声データ等を画像表示用ＰＣ２５に記憶しておくようにしてもよい。
【００９２】
また、上記第２の実施の形態の場合において、本第３の実施の形態と同様に画像表示用ＰＣ２５にて提供情報のための画像生成や音声処理が行われるようにしてもよい。この場合、超音波診断装置について既存装置（本発明に係る特別の仕様を有していない装置）を使用した場合でもワークフローに従った超音波診断装置に対する操作（ただし、装置の設定変更等は検査者による手動による）及びワークフローに従った被検者への情報提供が実現できる。
（第４の実施の形態）
第１乃至第３の実施の形態はワークフロー処理に連動して被検者への提供情報を変えるものであるが、第４の実施の形態はワークフロー処理を行わない場合の例であり、超音波診断装置の操作パネル１６への入力に連動して提供情報の切替えを行うものである。
【００９３】
なお、提供情報のための画像生成や音声処理、また画像表示用プログラムや提供情報の画像データ／音声データ等の記憶は超音波診断装置にて実施されるようにしてもよいし、被検者用モニタ１７において実施されるようにしてもよい。
【００９４】
被検者用モニタ１７にて実施される場合、超音波診断装置は自装置における操作に応じてその操作に係る情報を装置外部（被検者用モニタ１７）に出力可能に仕様されているだけでよく、それ以上の特別な仕様を有することなく第４の実施の形態を実現できる。すなわち、被検者用モニタ１７では超音波診断装置から出力される操作情報に応じて、その操作に適当な提供情報を被検者に提供することができる。
【００９５】
図６は、第４の実施の形態における制御プログラムの動作を示すものである。
【００９６】
検査者が超音波診断装置の操作パネル１６上にある情報提供開始ボタンを押す（ステップＳ９）と、超音波診断装置の制御プログラムは、被検者用モニタ１７に「ベッド上に横になってください。」という文字のメッセージと横たわり方を表すアニメーション画像（提供情報Ｇ）を表示し、被検者はこの指示に従ってベッド上に横になる。尚、提供する情報を複数種類用意しておき検査者が選択できるようにしても良い。
【００９７】
次に検査者は、操作パネル１６を操作し検査する被検者の氏名等の情報登録を行う（ステップＳ１０）。この登録の完了ボタンを押すと、制御プログラムは超音波診断の内容及び目的、超音波診断によってどのような疾病が診断可能か、あるいは超音波診断の安全性についての説明と、これらの説明終了後に被検者に精神的な快適感を与えるための情報（提供情報Ｈ）を被検者用モニタ１７及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８から提供する。
【００９８】
この提供情報Ｈを提供している間に、検査者は操作パネル１６を操作して診断モード等を順次切替えながら検査を行う（ステップＳ１１）。
【００９９】
各検査が終了後に検査者が検査完了ボタンを押す（ステップＳ１２）と、制御プログラムは、検査終了後の指示及び病院内案内図等の情報（提供情報Ｉ）を被検者用モニタ１７及び被検者用スピーカ・マイク１８から提供する。
【０１００】
上記の例では患者登録完了の入力に連動して提供情報の内容が切替わっているが、その他に、超音波診断装置の走査モードの切替え、超音波送受波条件等の超音波像を生成する際の条件設定、データ保存の実行・完了、超音波像生成用のデータ収集の開始及び終了の指示、超音波画像から血流量、距離、血流の拍動を表すパルサリティインデックス等の計測値を求める計測用プログラムの操作に連動して提供情報の内容を切替えるようにしても良い。
【０１０１】
このような第４の実施の形態によれば、超音波診断装置の動作切替えや情報入力の操作に連動して提供情報の内容が切替わるため、検査内容の説明、検査中の指示、検査結果の情報、精神的に快適感を与えるための情報などを検査中の適切なタイミングで患者に提供することができる。
【０１０２】
これにより、患者への検査内容の説明が適切に行われるため患者の不安感及び退屈感を軽減でき、また、体位変更等の指示が適切に分かりやすく提示されるため、検査の進行が良好になり検査効率を向上することができる。また、超音波診断装置を操作する際の入力作業に連動して提供情報が切替えられるので、検査者が煩雑な作業を行う必要がなく検査効率の向上を図ることができる。
（第５の実施の形態）
上記した各実施の形態においてはいずれも検査者の側には検査者用モニタ１３（２３ａ又は２７ａ）のみ設けられる場合について説明した。この場合、検査者としては本当に適切な提供情報が被検者に提供されているのか確認するには被検者用モニタ１７（２５ａ）を自身で確認する以外に方法はなかった。
【０１０３】
図７は第５の実施の形態にかかる超音波診断装置（超音波診断システム）の構成図である。同図において図１と異なる点は超音波診断装置本体１に被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８が設けられている点である。図１と同じ部分については第１の実施の形態に記載の説明と重複するのでここでは省略する。
【０１０４】
この被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８は被検者用モニタ１７に表示される内容（提供情報）をそのまま同じように表示するものである。画像生成回路９では被検者用モニタ１７に表示すべき提供情報は全て被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８にも同様に表示されるよう出力表示制御する。
【０１０５】
このように、被検者用モニタ１７と被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８には同じ提供情報が表示されるので、検査者は必要に応じて被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８に表示されている内容を見ることにより、現在、被検者用モニタ１７に正しい提供情報が提供されているのか否か、或いは今どのような提供情報が提供されているのか、等について確認できる。これにより検査者は被検者に提供されている情報について不安に感じることがなくなり、一層、検査に集中できるので検査精度、検査効率の向上が期待できる。
【０１０６】
なお、被検者用モニタ１７に表示される情報が前記画像生成回路９を介さずに提供される場合は被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８についても同様であってよく、各モニタに同じ情報が表示されれば、そのための手段は本実施の形態に限定されるものではない。
【０１０７】
また、本実施の形態においては被検者用モニタ確認モニタ２８を設けて被検者用モニタ１７に表示されている内容を確認するようにしたが、このような別モニタを設けることなく、検査者用モニタ１３の表示を検査に支障がない範囲で切り替えて、被検者用モニタ１７に表示されている内容を確認するようにしてもよい。
（第６の実施の形態）
本実施の形態では超音波検査においてありがちである「検査中に必要に応じて別の検査を割り込ませて実施する」場合について図８及び図９を用いて説明する。
【０１０８】
図８はワークフロー処理プログラムの動作を示すフローチャートである。
【０１０９】
同図においてステップＳ１乃至ステップＳ７は図３と同じであり、これらのステップは第１の実施の形態に記載の説明と重複するのでここでは省略する。
【０１１０】
あるアクティビティを実行した（ステップＳ５）後、本来のワークフローにおける次のアクティビティを選択して（ステップＳ６）検査を進める前に、検査者が次へ進む前に是非とも実施すべき検査（確認すべき内容）があると判断した場合には（ステップＳ８１）、一旦、進行中のワークフローから抜けて別検査（臨時検査）を実施する。
【０１１１】
この臨時検査の実施については上記のように検査者自らの判断によるものに限らず、例えば、別の場所にいる医師からの指示やアドバイスに基づくこともあれば、予めワークフロー中に特別の場合の選択肢（ある特別な状況の場合にのみ本流から外れて実施する検査）として設定されていて、それに従うような場合もありうる。
【０１１２】
いずれにしても、当初予定していなかった前記臨時検査をするにあたり、その検査名が検査者により選択（あるいはワークフローにより自動選択）されると（ステップＳ８２）、それまでのワークフローは一旦中断され、その臨時検査についての一連のワークフローに従った各アクティビティを実行する（ステップＳ８３）。この各アクティビティの実行については図８のフローチャートに示されるワークフロー処理プログラムの各ステップに従うことになる。
【０１１３】
選択した検査についての全てのアクティビティが終了し臨時検査終了となると（ステップＳ８４）、ここで再び元のワークフローに戻る。そして臨時検査による中断直前において次に進むべきはずであった次のアクティビティを選択する（ステップＳ６）。
【０１１４】
なお、このような臨時検査の割込みにより検査時間に変動が生じる場合は、この割込みが生じた時点で全体検査時間や進行時間を補正して最新の時間情報を求める。
【０１１５】
次に、図９は本実施の形態におけるワークフロー処理の一例を示したものである。同図においてステップＳ４１乃至ステップＳ５０は図４と同じであり、これらのステップは第１の実施の形態に記載の説明と重複するのでここでは省略する。
【０１１６】
ワークフロー処理プログラムに基づき各アクティビティを実行して行く中で、ステップＳ４３において“通常超音波診断”を実行した結果、別検査（臨時検査）の実施が必要と判断されると（図８のステップＳ８１でＹＥＳの場合）、すぐに次の造影検査のための造影準備（ステップＳ４４）に移行せず、割り込む形で臨時検査がまず行われる。
【０１１７】
臨時検査の実施が臨時検査Ａ及びＢであるとき、操作者が臨時検査Ａを選択すると“臨時検査Ａ”（ステップＳ９１）のアクティビティが実行される。これにより操作者用モニタにはまず臨時検査Ａの準備を促すメッセージが表示される。検査者はこのメッセージに従い臨時検査Ａの準備を開始する。
【０１１８】
一方、被検者に対しては臨時検査Ａが選択されると、この検査の目的や内容について被検者用モニタと被検者用スピーカ・マイクを通じて説明（提供情報Ｘ）が提供される。検査についての説明が終わると、その後は被検者に精神的な快適感を与えるための風景、絵画の映像や音楽等の情報（提供情報Ｘ）が提供される。
【０１１９】
なお、検査者は準備が完了すると実際の検査を開始する。
【０１２０】
臨時検査Ａが終了すると、検査者は引き続き臨時検査Ｂを選択する。この選択により、“臨時検査Ｂ”（ステップＳ９２）について前記臨時検査Ａと同様に各アクティビティが実行される。
【０１２１】
臨時検査Ａ及びＢがいずれも完了すると、これら臨時検査のための中断前に次に予定されていた“造影準備”（ステップＳ４４）についてのアクティビティが選択（図８のステップＳ６）・実行され、以降ステップＳ５０まで第１の実施の形態と同様に各アクティビティが実行されることになる。
【０１２２】
以上説明したように、本実施の形態では臨時の検査が割り込んだ場合でも、その割込み検査に応じた提供情報が被検者に提供されるので、被検者は検査がどのような展開になったか、その検査が何のために行われるのか、またその割込みにより検査時間がどのくらい延びたかなど、検査状況を正確に把握することができる。さらに、検査に関する説明以外の時間については精神的に快適感を与える提供情報が提供される。従って、被検者は必要以上に不安を抱くことなく検査を受けることが可能になる。
【０１２３】
また、検査者に対しては、このような割込みがあった場合でもワークフローの柔軟な対応を提供し検査効率を低下させることを防ぐことが可能である。
【０１２４】
ＭＲＩ検査などと比較して超音波診断装置による検査では本実施の形態のように検査中に臨機応変に追加の検査を割り込ませる必要が生じることがある。従って、超音波診断装置を用いた診断の場合に本実施の形態は特に有効である。
【０１２５】
本発明は、上述した実施の形態に限定されるものではなく種々変形して使用することができる。例えば、上述した実施の形態は超音波診断装置について述べたものであるが、Ｘ線ＣＴ装置、ＭＲＩ装置、Ｘ線診断装置等の医用診断装置で実施しても良い。
【０１２６】
また、被検者への提供情報はテレビ放送を基本にし、必要な時だけ指示や検査説明などがテレビ放送を中断して割り込むようにしてもよい。
【０１２７】
さらに、被検者への提供情報は外部に設けたサーバに保管するようにし、必要時に必要な情報を通信回線を介して取り込むようにしてもよい。この場合、提供情報は独立したサーバ内にあるため情報のデータ更新も比較的容易である。従って、風景画やアニメーション等の代わりに例えば日毎に更新した最新ニュースを提供することも可能になる。
【０１２８】
このように外部サーバを利用することにより、被検者に対してより多種の情報を提供できるようになるばかりか、超音波診断装置やワークフローナビゲーション用ＰＣ、画像表示用ＰＣ（被検者用モニタ）のいずれにも提供情報を記憶する必要が無くなるためこれらのハード負荷を軽減することも可能になる。
【０１２９】
さらにまた、音声による被検者への指示・情報等は、検査者が直接発する音声の他に予め録音登録してある音声や音声合成装置により作られた音声であってもよい。
【０１３０】
なお、本発明の実施の形態の説明においては検査者用カメラと被検者用カメラを設置した場合について説明したが、これらのカメラはＸ線（ＣＴ）診断装置やＭＲＩ装置などの場合において特に有効であり、超音波診断装置では通常、検査者と被検査者が隣同士で検査が行われるので必ずしも必要としないのは言うまでもない。
【０１３１】
【発明の効果】
本発明によれば、装置の動作切替え、装置への入力操作、被検者の情報等に応じて検査中に被検者に提供する情報の内容を変更することにより、適切な情報提供を行うことができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】第１の実施の形態にかかる超音波診断システムの構成図である。
【図２】第１の実施の形態にかかる表示画面を表した図である。
【図３】第１の実施の形態にかかるワークフロー処理プログラムの流れを示す図である。
【図４】第１の実施の形態にかかるワークフロー処理を用いた検査例である。
【図５】第２、第３の実施の形態にかかる超音波診断システムの構成図である。
【図６】第４の実施の形態にかかる超音波診断システムの制御の流れを示す図である。
【図７】第５の実施の形態にかかる超音波診断システムの構成図である。
【図８】第６の実施の形態にかかるワークフロー処理プログラムの流れを示す図である。
【図９】第６の実施の形態にかかるワークフロー処理を用いた検査例である。
【符号の説明】
１．超音波診断装置本体
５．制御プロセッサ
７．内部記憶装置
９．画像生成回路
１０．音声処理回路
１１．カメラ処理回路
１３．検査者用モニタ
１４．検査者用スピーカ・マイク
１７．被検者用モニタ
１８．被検者用スピーカ・マイク[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention , Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment In Related.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, a signal generated or reflected in a subject (subject, patient) or a signal transmitted through the subject is received, and the obtained received signal is an image for medical diagnosis with high visibility and objectivity. There is known a medical diagnostic apparatus that reconstructs and displays as follows. Specifically, it is known as a medical diagnostic apparatus such as an X-ray CT apparatus, an MRI apparatus, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, etc., and obtains image information such as the form, moving object, function, etc. inside the subject. Can do.
[0003]
In the diagnosis by the diagnostic apparatus, the subject is restrained for a certain period of time for collecting diagnostic information. Depending on the examination, the restraint time may be several tens of minutes, sometimes exceeding 1 hour. When undergoing such an examination, the subject must feel `` anxiety about when the examination will be completed, boredom '', `` anxiety because the purpose of applying an ultrasonic gel in ultrasonic diagnosis, wearing an electrocardiograph, etc. is unknown In many cases, the user feels various anxiety and bored feelings such as “anxiety about sound generated during examination” and “anxiety about closing in a CT or MRI apparatus”.
[0004]
As a method of reducing the suffering of the subject caused by such a long-time examination, an MRI apparatus that allows the subject to watch the operator's situation, television broadcasting, etc. during the examination is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. Hei. No. 249044 is known.
[0005]
In recent years, as diagnostic devices have become more sophisticated and medical diagnostic techniques have become more complex, operators of medical diagnostic devices are required to have advanced technology and experience. As a result, there is a problem that the reliability of the inspection result may be lowered. As a method for solving such a problem, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus in which the operation of the apparatus is switched according to a preset workflow (inspection procedure) is described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-137237.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The technique disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 1-249044 reduces the patient's boredom by providing the patient with television broadcasts and videos in the MRI examination, but information is provided regardless of the progress of the examination. Since it was carried out, it was not possible to explain the contents of the inspection and give instructions during the inspection at an appropriate timing.
[0007]
In an MRI apparatus, the inspection depends largely on the apparatus itself, and the inspection itself is completed based on a mechanically constant flow, and the time required for inspection usually deviates significantly from the range expected in advance before the inspection. There is no. Therefore, for example, if the approximate time required for the test is communicated to the subject in advance, then a video or the like for reducing anxiety and fear of closed places, dark places, etc. will be played as described in the above publication. As such, there is no special requirement for various support and flexible response in the progress of the examination.
[0008]
On the other hand, for example, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, the inspection is performed by the technique of an inspector such as an engineer. In other words, due to the nature of the inspection, it is necessary to respond flexibly as necessary during the inspection. In other words, inspections may be interrupted, additional inspections may be added, and additional inspections may be required (such as returning to the inspection after the inspection) that branches off from the inspection depending on the judgment status during the inspection. In many cases, the time and content of the inspection will differ greatly from the pre-inspection schedule.
[0009]
Therefore, the subject has a sense of anxiety that is different from the closedness of the MRI apparatus, the sense of anxiety or fear of the sound, such as when the examination will be completed and what kind of examination will be performed next.
[0010]
On the other hand, from the viewpoint of an inspector who performs such an ultrasonic inspection, advanced technology and experience are required to reliably implement such inspection procedures and inspection contents that tend to be complicated. As described above.
[0011]
Therefore, the content disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-137237 switches the operation of the apparatus according to the workflow. However, although such a workflow is effective for the examiner, the publication still does not describe providing information to patients.
[0012]
Returning to general medical diagnostic devices, it is necessary for the subject to change his position and stop breathing in response to instructions from the examiner (operator, doctor) during the examination. These instructions were given by talking to the subject. However, there is a problem that the explanation is insufficient only by the explanation by conversation, and there is a problem that the work of the inspector increases for this explanation. In the X-ray CT apparatus and the MRI apparatus, since the examiner usually operates the system in a separate room, it is difficult to explain and give instructions to the subject.
[0013]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and can reduce the anxiety and boredom of the subject and improve the efficiency of the inspection. Ru Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment The The purpose is to provide.
[0014]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention according to claim 1 is the following: “Image generation means for generating a medical image representing a state in the subject by transmission / reception of ultrasonic waves, provision information storage means for storing provision information, Information generation means for generating actual provision information contents based on the provision information stored in the provision information storage means, first display means for displaying a medical image generated by the image generation means, and the information generation Second display means for displaying the content of the provided information generated by the means, inspection procedure storage means for storing the inspection procedure, and control means for controlling the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the inspection procedure stored in the inspection procedure storage means The information generation means generates actual provision information content based on the provision information stored in the provision information storage means, and the second display means is based on the information generation means. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized in that it can display the generated provided information content in accordance with the examination procedure stored in the examination procedure storage means and can also display information on the safety of diagnosis by the examination. " I will provide a.
[0031]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus (ultrasonic diagnostic system) according to the first embodiment.
[0032]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 includes a B-mode processing circuit 2, a Doppler processing circuit 3, a transmission / reception circuit 4, a control processor 5, a memory 6, an internal storage device 7, a bus 8, an image generation circuit 9, an audio processing circuit 10, and camera processing. A circuit 11, an interface 12, an inspector monitor 13, an inspector speaker / microphone 14, an inspector camera 15, and an operation panel 16 are provided.
[0033]
The ultrasonic probe 22 has an ultrasonic transducer array that converts ultrasonic waves and electrical signals, and transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from the subject. The transmission / reception circuit 4 performs a delay addition process on a transmission circuit that generates a drive signal for transmitting ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer array and ultrasonic echo signals received by each ultrasonic transducer. And a receiving circuit for generating an ultrasonic echo signal corresponding to a predetermined scanning raster.
[0034]
The B-mode processing circuit 2 performs processing such as logarithmic conversion and envelope detection on the ultrasonic echo signal. The B mode image generated based on the output signal of the B mode processing circuit 2 is a two-dimensional density distribution image of the signal intensity of the ultrasonic echo, and the tissue structure in the living body, the contrast agent, and the like can be visually recognized.
[0035]
The Doppler processing circuit 3 performs orthogonal detection processing, MTI (moving target indicator) filtering processing, autocorrelation processing, and the like on the ultrasonic echo signal, and the velocity value, dispersion value, and power value of the moving body in the subject. Ask for. The CFM (color flow mapping) image generated based on the output signal of the Doppler processing circuit 3 is a two-dimensional image in which colors are assigned to velocity values, dispersion values, and power values according to a predetermined rule. The speed, dispersion, power, etc. of a moving body such as a contrast medium and ecological tissue can be visually recognized.
[0036]
The internal storage device 7 is composed of a random-accessible large-capacity magnetic storage means such as an HDD (hard disk drive), and includes a control program for controlling the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and workflow processing, workflow data representing inspection procedures, and image data. Audio data etc. are stored digitally.
[0037]
The workflow data stores an array of operation control items (hereinafter referred to as activities) that define the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The activity is associated with the activity name, icon information, and the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. As the operation, switching of the scanning mode such as the B mode, the CFM mode, and the contrast mode, and the change of the ultrasonic transmission / reception conditions are performed. It is possible to define activation / termination of measurement program for ultrasonic diagnosis, execution of recording of examination data, message display to examiner, change of information provided to examinee, and the like. The contents of this activity may be stored in advance at the time of shipment of the apparatus, or may be created independently by an inspector.
[0038]
The workflow processing program sequentially executes each activity based on the workflow data, and switches the operation of the apparatus and instructs the inspector to work. The internal storage device 7 can also record ultrasonic image data collected during the examination.
[0039]
The control processor 5 controls each part in the apparatus based on a control program stored in the internal storage device 7. The memory 6 is composed of a high-speed semiconductor memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), and temporarily stores control programs, workflow data, collected ultrasound images, and the like when processing is performed by the control processor.
[0040]
The image generation circuit 9 has an image memory for storing images, generates an image to be displayed on the inspector monitor 13 and an image to be displayed on the subject monitor 17 on the image memory, so that the video in a general format is displayed. Output as a signal. At this time, if necessary, the image generation circuit 9 images the data sequence along each scanning direction of the ultrasonic scan output from the B-mode processing circuit 2 and the Doppler processing circuit 3 so as to correspond to the scan shape. An ultrasonic image is formed by writing on the memory and performing scan conversion.
[0041]
The inspector monitor 13 is configured integrally with the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 and displays an ultrasonic image, an activity icon, apparatus setting information, a camera image, and the like. The subject monitor 17 is configured to be installed at a position distant from the apparatus main body, and displays the remaining examination time information, image information that makes the subject mentally comfortable, a photographed camera image, and the like. It should be placed in a position where it is easy for the subject to see.
[0042]
The sound processing circuit 10 sends drive signals for generating sound from the speaker / microphone 14 for the examiner and the speaker / microphone 18 for the subject. The voice processing circuit 10 converts the voice collected by the inspector speaker / microphone 14 and the subject speaker / microphone 18 into a digital signal. The speaker / microphone 14 for the inspector is configured integrally with the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 and provides voice to the inspector and collects the voice of the inspector. The subject speaker / microphone 18 is installed in the vicinity of the subject and provides voice to the subject and collects the voice of the subject.
[0043]
The camera processing circuit 11 converts image signals photographed by the inspector camera 15 and the subject camera 19 into digital signals. The inspector camera 15 is attached to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 so that the face of the inspector can be photographed. The subject camera 19 is installed in the vicinity of the subject so that the face of the subject can be photographed.
[0044]
The interface 12 includes an external storage device 20, a communication line 21 connected to a hospital LAN (local area network), buttons for controlling the device and setting image quality conditions, a keyboard, and a pointing device such as a trackball and a mouse. A device such as the operation panel 16 is connected. The bus 8 exchanges data between circuits in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The present invention is not limited to the circuit configuration described above, and a configuration in which processing similar to that of each circuit is realized by software using a normal PC (personal computer) may be employed.
[0045]
FIG. 2 a is an example of a screen displayed on the inspector monitor 13.
[0046]
The screen of the inspector monitor 13 is linked to an icon group 13a in which icons corresponding to activities are displayed side by side, an ultrasonic image 13b, incidental information 13c such as date and subject information, and the operation of the operation panel 16 to the pointing device. A moving cursor icon 13d, and a small screen 13e for displaying an image of the subject photographed by the subject camera 19. FIG. 2 b is an example of a screen displayed on the subject monitor 17. The screen of the subject monitor 17 displays a landscape image 17a as information for giving mental comfort to the entire screen, and an image of the inspector taken by the inspector camera 15 is displayed. And a progress bar 17c indicating the remaining time of the examination.
[0047]
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the workflow processing program.
[0048]
When an inspector presses an examination start button on the operation panel 16 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, a workflow processing program is started. The workflow processing program first lists a list of examination names corresponding to workflow data stored in the internal storage device 7. And the list is displayed on the inspector monitor 13 (step S1). Test names include myocardial infarction test, liver cancer test, fetal growth test, and the like. As shown in Table 1, each examination name is associated with workflow data and provided information having different contents, and according to the selected examination name, the workflow data to be executed and the contents of the provided information to be displayed are displayed. change.
[0049]
[Table 1]

[0050]
Next, the workflow processing program waits for input so that an examination name can be selected from a list of examination names. In response to this, the inspector selects an examination name to be executed by operating the operation panel 16 or the like (step S2). .
[0051]
Next, the workflow processing program reads the workflow data corresponding to the examination name selected in step S2, and displays the array of activities defined in the workflow data on the inspector monitor 13 using icons (step). S3). A plurality of icons corresponding to each activity are displayed on the inspector monitor 13 in the order of execution, and the inspector can intuitively grasp the inspection flow by looking at the arrangement of the icons.
[0052]
Next, the workflow processing program selects an activity to be executed first, and emphasizes an icon on the inspector monitor 13 corresponding to this activity by color change, size change, etc. It can be grasped (step S4).
[0053]
Next, the workflow processing program executes the operation defined for the selected activity, and changes the settings of the ultrasonic diagnostic equipment, displays messages to the examiner, etc. according to the operation defined for the activity I do. At this time, if the activity defines the start of provision of provision information to the subject, change of provision information, stop provision, etc., the content of the image or sound provided to the subject is changed accordingly (Step S5). The provided information may be stored in advance in the internal storage device 7 as a plurality of types of moving images, animations, sounds, messages, and the like, and what information is provided from these is defined as an activity.
[0054]
When the execution of the activity is completed, the workflow processing program selects the next activity, and highlights the icon of the selected activity on the inspector monitor (step S6). If the selected activity is an “end” activity, the workflow processing is terminated, otherwise the process returns to step S5 to execute the selected activity.
[0055]
In the above-described example, the arranged activities are executed in order, but the doctor selects an arbitrary activity icon displayed on the inspector's monitor 13 by operating the mouse or the like while the activities are sequentially executed. By doing so, the activity to be executed can be arbitrarily changed. Also in this case, an operation corresponding to the changed and selected activity (including provision of provision information to the subject) is performed.
[0056]
The processing is performed according to the above-described flowchart, and a progress bar 17c is displayed on the subject monitor 17 so that the subject can grasp the remaining time of the examination. The progress bar 17c is composed of a frame representing the entire inspection time and a bar whose length changes in accordance with the inspection progress time. The total inspection time is obtained by previously storing each workflow data in association with a representative overall inspection time, or by storing each activity in association with a representative inspection time. The sum of the inspection times of activities used in the workflow data is used. The progress time is obtained by correcting the actual elapsed time in the inspection in conjunction with the switching of activities. By displaying such a progress bar 17c, the subject can know how much of the entire examination has progressed and how long it will take to complete the examination.
[0057]
In addition, the display of information related to the examination time is not limited to the above example, but only the scheduled time required for the examination, including the display in the form of a graph, the display form only with characters, and other normally known time information display forms The display of only the remaining inspection time, the combination thereof, or the display of the current elapsed time with respect to the required scheduled time may be displayed in any form. The display is not limited to visual display on the monitor, but may be sound display through a speaker / microphone for the subject.
[0058]
On the other hand, when the inspector operates the operation panel 16 to instruct display of the camera image, the image of the inspector taken by the inspector camera 15 is displayed on the small screen 17b portion of the inspector monitor 17, and the subject is inspected. An image of the subject photographed by the examiner camera 19 is displayed on the small screen 13 e portion of the examiner monitor 13. At this time, the inspector and the subject can talk with each other through the inspector's speaker / microphone 14 and the subject's speaker / microphone 18 so that they can talk while watching the other person's facial expression. become.
[0059]
In addition, images captured by the inspector camera 15 and the subject camera 19 and voices collected by the inspector speaker / microphone 14 and the subject speaker / microphone 18 are transmitted via the communication line 21. It may be transmitted to a computer at a remote location outside the examination room, and other doctors (primary physicians) or the like can observe the status of the examination and the condition of the subject on the computer.
[0060]
In this case, if a doctor's camera for photographing the doctor and a doctor's speaker / microphone for sending the voice of the doctor or listening to the voice of the other person are also installed at the place of the other doctor, the doctor It is possible to display the figure or face of the doctor photographed by the camera for use on the examiner monitor 13 or the subject monitor 17 via the communication line 21. In addition, it is possible to hear the voice of the doctor through the communication line 21 through the speaker / microphone 14 for the examiner and the speaker / microphone 18 for the subject.
[0061]
In this way, the doctor can talk with the examiner about the diagnosis status while looking at each other's face, and can make an inquiry with the examinee while looking at each other's face.
[0062]
Next, an inspection example using the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention will be described.
[0063]
FIG. 4 shows an example of workflow processing, with the activity in the workflow on the left, the work of the examiner and the subject corresponding to the activity on the left, and the information provided to the subject corresponding to the activity on the right. ing.
[0064]
First, the workflow processing program executes the first activity “subject registration” (step S41), and displays a screen for performing subject registration on the inspector monitor 13. At the same time, the workflow processing program displays a message of “Please lie down on the bed” and an animation image (provided information A) indicating how to lie down on the monitor 17 for the subject. Lying on the bed according to instructions.
[0065]
When the examiner presses the completion button after confirming that the subject has slept on the bed, the workflow processing program executes “electrocardiograph preparation” (step S42) as the next activity, and the monitor for the examiner. Display a message prompting you to prepare an electrocardiograph. At the same time, the workflow processing program provides information (provided information B) such as the purpose of monitoring the electrocardiogram, the content of the disease that can be diagnosed by the electrocardiogram, and the safety (for example, the sensor attached to the skin is not at risk of electric shock). Using the monitor 17 for the subject and the speaker / microphone 18 for the subject, it is provided as video, characters, animation images, audio, and the like. While receiving this, the subject wears an electrocardiograph.
[0066]
When the examiner presses the completion button after the preparation of the electrocardiograph is completed, the workflow processing program executes “normal ultrasound diagnosis” (step S43), which is the next activity, and is determined in advance in association with the activity. The mode of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus (switching between B mode, CFM mode, etc.) and the transmission / reception conditions are switched based on the existing conditions, and a message for prompting normal ultrasonic diagnosis is displayed on the inspector monitor 13. In accordance with this message, the examiner applies an acoustic gel to the subject, and then observes an ultrasonic image of the examination region and the periphery of the examination region to perform overall observation.
[0067]
At the same time, the workflow processing program displays the contents and purpose of the ultrasonic diagnosis, what kind of disease can be diagnosed by the ultrasonic diagnosis, or explanation (provided information C) about the safety of the ultrasonic diagnosis. 17 and the subject speaker / microphone 18.
[0068]
When the examiner presses the completion button after the normal ultrasound diagnosis is completed, the workflow processing program executes “contrast preparation” (step S44) as the next activity, and prepares for the ultrasound contrast diagnosis on the examiner monitor 13. Display a message prompting The examiner prepares for an ultrasound contrast diagnosis according to this message. At the same time, the workflow processing program explains the contents and purpose of the ultrasound contrast diagnosis, what kind of disease can be diagnosed by the ultrasound contrast diagnosis, and mental comfort to the subject after the explanation. Information (provided information D) such as landscapes, pictures of pictures and music (provided information D) is provided from the subject monitor 17 and the subject speaker / microphone 18. Moreover, you may make it provide the image and audio | voices for infants, such as a television broadcast, an animation image, and a song, with respect to a child.
[0069]
Thereafter, when the examiner sequentially presses the completion button, the workflow processing program sequentially executes the activities of “contrast examination 1” (step S45), “contrast examination 2” (step S46), and “report display” (step S47). During this time, the provision information D is continuously provided. In contrast examination 1, ultrasound images of the initial phase, middle phase, and late phase after contrast medium administration are observed (inspected), and in contrast examination 2, a measurement program is started to quantify blood flow and the like from the ultrasound image. A test for obtaining a value is performed, and in the report display, the list of calculated quantitative values, the comment of the inspector, and the like are displayed on the inspector monitor 13 as a report for confirmation.
[0070]
When the inspector presses the completion button after the confirmation of the displayed report is completed, the workflow processing program executes “inspection result explanation” (step S48), which is the next activity, and the collected ultrasonic image is inspected. The same image is displayed (provided information E) on the patient monitor 17 as well as on the patient monitor 13. At this time, a cursor icon that moves in conjunction with the operation of the mouse or the like on the operation panel 16 is displayed on both the monitors. Explain the test results to the subject.
[0071]
Next, when the completion button is pressed, the workflow processing program executes an activity of “save” (step S49), and saves the collected ultrasonic image and report information in the internal storage device 7 as the examination result.
[0072]
Note that the ultrasonic image and report information may be stored by transmitting data via a network to a hospital data storage device provided separately.
[0073]
At this time, the workflow processing program displays an instruction after completion of the examination such as returning to the hospital room, going to the pharmacy, and a guide map in the hospital for moving to each place (provided information F), etc. And the speaker / microphone 18 for the subject.
[0074]
When the saving is finished, an “end” (step S50) activity is executed. After that, when the completion button is pressed, the workflow processing is finished (examination is finished).
[0075]
According to the first embodiment as described above, the content of the provided information is switched in conjunction with the workflow data type (inspection type) and the progress of the workflow processing, so that the description of the inspection content, the instruction during the inspection, the inspection It is possible to provide the patient with information on the results, images and sound for giving a mental feeling of comfort at an appropriate timing during the examination. As a result, the contents of the examination are properly explained to the subject, so that the subject's anxiety and boredom can be reduced, and instructions for changing the body position such as sitting, supine, and laterally are properly understood. Since it is presented easily, the progress of the inspection becomes good and the inspection efficiency can be improved.
[0076]
In addition, it is possible to perform a higher quality examination by enabling the examiner to interrupt with voice or camera video, and to give a fine adjustment instruction of the body position as needed.
[0077]
In addition, since the provision of these information can be switched in accordance with the type of workflow data (type of inspection) and the progress of workflow processing, the inspector does not have to perform complicated work to switch the provided information, and inspection efficiency is improved. Can be improved.
[0078]
Furthermore, the contents of the provided information may be changed according to information such as age, sex, and medical condition registered in the subject registration, and thus provided according to information such as age, sex, and medical condition. By changing the information, it is possible to provide more appropriate information to the subject.
[0079]
In addition, information on the examination time can be provided, so that the person can know how much the examination is progressing in the whole examination and how long it will take to complete the examination. Thus, the subject's feeling of boredness, anxiety, etc. can be reduced.
(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the workflow processing and the generation of the image and sound for the subject are performed in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1, but the second embodiment is for the workflow processing and the subject. The image and sound are generated by an external PC.
[0080]
FIG. 5 (A) shows an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to the second embodiment, which will be described below. The description of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment is omitted.
[0081]
The ultrasonic diagnostic system includes an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23, a workflow navigation PC 24, and an image display PC 25, which are connected to each other through a communication line 26 such as a hospital LAN or RS232C. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23 includes an inspector monitor 23a, the workflow navigation PC 24 includes a workflow navigation monitor 24a, and the image display PC 25 includes a subject monitor 25a.
[0082]
The workflow navigation PC 24 and the image display PC 25 are generally commercially available PCs, and include input means such as a CPU, a memory, a magnetic storage device, a bus, a keyboard, and a mouse. The workflow navigation PC 24 stores the workflow processing program and workflow data, and the image display PC 25 stores the image display program and the image data and audio data of the provided information in the respective magnetic storage devices.
[0083]
The workflow processing program is executed on the workflow navigation PC 24 and operates in substantially the same manner as described in the first embodiment. The workflow processing program displays a list of examination names and icons corresponding to the activities on the workflow navigation monitor 24a and sequentially executes each activity. The workflow processing program sends a control signal corresponding to the contents defined in each activity to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23 and the image display PC 25 via the communication line 26. In response to this control signal, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23 switches the operation of the apparatus, and the image display PC 25 performs the start / end of information provision, the contents of the provision information, and the like. The transition of the activity to be executed may be performed based on input to the keyboard or mouse of the workflow navigation PC 24, or information regarding the operation state of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23 or input information to the operation panel 16 may be used as a communication line. 26 may be sent to the workflow navigation PC 24 via H.26 and performed in accordance with the contents.
[0084]
According to such 2nd Embodiment, the content of the information provided to a subject can be switched in connection with progress of a test | inspection similarly to 1st Embodiment. In addition, since the workflow processing is performed by a PC outside the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, workflow processing and provision of information to the subject can be performed even with an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus that does not have a workflow processing function. Further, when connecting via a hospital LAN, each device can be moved and arranged relatively easily if it is a place where it can be connected to the hospital LAN.
[0085]
Even in the case of this embodiment in which the workflow processing program is on the workflow navigation PC 24, the list of examination items and the display of icons corresponding to the activities are displayed via the communication line 26 such as the hospital LAN or RS232C. It may be performed on the inspector monitor 23a of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23.
[0086]
In the present embodiment, the workflow navigation PC 24 is provided and the workflow processing program and workflow data are stored therein. However, these programs and data may be stored in the image display PC 25. In this case, display related to the workflow (display of a list of examination items, display of icons corresponding to activities, etc.) is performed on the inspector monitor 23a of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 23 via the communication line 26 such as the hospital LAN or RS232C. If this is done, the present embodiment can be realized without providing the workflow navigation PC 24.
(Third embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the image and sound for the subject are generated in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1, but the image and sound for the subject are generated in the third embodiment. Is performed by an external PC.
[0087]
FIG. 5 (B) shows an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to the third embodiment, which will be described below. The description of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment is omitted.
[0088]
The ultrasonic diagnostic system includes an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 27 and an image display PC 25, which are connected to each other via a communication line 26 such as a hospital LAN or RS232C. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 27 includes an inspector monitor 27a.
[0089]
The workflow processing program is executed on the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 27 and operates in substantially the same manner as that described in the first embodiment. The workflow processing program displays a list of inspection items and icons corresponding to the activities on the inspector monitor 27a and sequentially executes each activity. The workflow processing program sends a control signal corresponding to the contents defined in each activity to the image display PC 25 via the communication line 26. In response to this control signal, the image display PC 25 performs the start / end of information provision and the switching of the contents of the provision information by the image generated for the subject and the processed voice.
[0090]
Even with such a configuration, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, since the processing of the information provided to the subject is performed by the image display PC 25, the processing load on the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can be reduced.
[0091]
Since image generation for PC information and sound processing are performed in the image display PC 25, as in the second embodiment, the image display program 25 and the image data / audio data of the provided information are stored in the image display PC 25. You may make it memorize in.
[0092]
In the case of the second embodiment, image generation and audio processing for provided information may be performed by the image display PC 25 as in the third embodiment. In this case, even when an existing apparatus (an apparatus that does not have the special specification according to the present invention) is used for the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, the operation for the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the workflow (however, setting change of the apparatus is inspected) Information provision to the subject according to the workflow).
(Fourth embodiment)
The first to third embodiments change the information provided to the subject in conjunction with the workflow process, but the fourth embodiment is an example in which the workflow process is not performed. The provided information is switched in conjunction with the input to the operation panel 16 of the diagnostic apparatus.
[0093]
It should be noted that image generation and audio processing for provided information, and storage of image display program and image data / audio data of provided information, etc. may be carried out by an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, or subject It may be implemented in the monitor 17 for use.
[0094]
When implemented on the subject monitor 17, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is only designed to output information related to the operation to the outside of the apparatus (subject monitor 17) according to the operation on the own apparatus. The fourth embodiment can be realized without having any special specification beyond that. That is, according to the operation information output from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, the subject monitor 17 can provide the subject with provision information appropriate for the operation.
[0095]
FIG. 6 shows the operation of the control program in the fourth embodiment.
[0096]
When the examiner presses the information providing start button on the operation panel 16 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus (step S9), the control program of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is displayed on the monitor 17 for the subject “lie on the bed. Please display a message with the words “Please,” and an animation image (provided information G) showing how to lie down, and the subject lies on the bed according to this instruction. A plurality of types of information to be provided may be prepared so that the inspector can select.
[0097]
Next, the inspector operates the operation panel 16 to register information such as the name of the subject to be inspected (step S10). When this registration completion button is pressed, the control program will explain the contents and purpose of the ultrasound diagnosis, what diseases can be diagnosed by the ultrasound diagnosis, and the safety of the ultrasound diagnosis, and after these explanations have been completed. Information (provided information H) for giving a mental feeling to the subject is provided from the subject monitor 17 and the subject speaker / microphone 18.
[0098]
While providing the provision information H, the inspector operates the operation panel 16 to perform the inspection while sequentially switching the diagnosis mode and the like (step S11).
[0099]
When the examiner presses the examination completion button after each examination is finished (step S12), the control program sends information after the examination is completed and information (provided information I) such as a hospital guide map to the subject monitor 17 and the subject. Provided from the speaker / microphone 18 for the examiner.
[0100]
In the above example, the contents of the provided information are switched in conjunction with the patient registration completion input, but in addition to this, an ultrasound image is generated such as switching of the scanning mode of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, ultrasound transmission / reception conditions, etc. Measured values such as pulsarity index indicating blood flow volume, distance, blood flow pulsation from ultrasonic image, setting of conditions, execution / completion of data storage, instruction to start and end data collection for ultrasonic image generation The contents of the provided information may be switched in conjunction with the operation of the measurement program for obtaining the information.
[0101]
According to the fourth embodiment, the contents of the provided information are switched in conjunction with the operation switching and information input operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, so that the description of the inspection contents, the instruction during the inspection, the inspection result Information and information for giving a feeling of mental comfort can be provided to the patient at an appropriate timing during the examination.
[0102]
As a result, the patient's anxiety and boredom can be reduced because the examination details are properly explained to the patient, and the instructions for changing the body position are presented in an easy-to-understand manner. The inspection efficiency can be improved. In addition, since the provided information is switched in conjunction with the input operation when operating the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, it is not necessary for the inspector to perform complicated operations, and the inspection efficiency can be improved.
(Fifth embodiment)
In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where only the inspector monitor 13 (23a or 27a) is provided on the inspector side has been described. In this case, as an examiner, there is no method other than confirming the subject monitor 17 (25a) by himself / herself to confirm whether or not the proper provision information is provided to the subject.
[0103]
FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus (ultrasonic diagnostic system) according to the fifth embodiment. 1 is different from FIG. 1 in that an ultrasonic monitor main body 1 is provided with a monitor confirmation monitor 28 for a subject. The same parts as those in FIG. 1 are omitted here because they are the same as those described in the first embodiment.
[0104]
The subject monitor confirmation monitor 28 displays the contents (provided information) displayed on the subject monitor 17 in the same manner. The image generation circuit 9 performs output display control so that all the provision information to be displayed on the subject monitor 17 is also displayed on the subject monitor confirmation monitor 28 in the same manner.
[0105]
Thus, since the same provision information is displayed on the subject monitor 17 and the subject monitor confirmation monitor 28, the examiner is displayed on the subject monitor confirmation monitor 28 as necessary. By looking at the contents, it is possible to confirm whether or not the correct provision information is currently being provided to the subject monitor 17 or what kind of provision information is currently being provided. As a result, the inspector does not feel anxious about the information provided to the subject, and can concentrate on the inspection, so that improvement in inspection accuracy and inspection efficiency can be expected.
[0106]
In addition, when the information displayed on the subject monitor 17 is provided without the image generation circuit 9, the same may be applied to the subject monitor confirmation monitor 28, and the same information is displayed on each monitor. If displayed, the means for that is not limited to this Embodiment.
[0107]
Further, in the present embodiment, the subject monitor confirmation monitor 28 is provided to confirm the contents displayed on the subject monitor 17, but the inspection can be performed without providing such another monitor. The display on the person monitor 13 may be switched within a range that does not hinder the examination, and the contents displayed on the person monitor 17 may be confirmed.
(Sixth embodiment)
In the present embodiment, the case of “performing another inspection as necessary during inspection”, which is often used in ultrasonic inspection, will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.
[0108]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the workflow processing program.
[0109]
In the figure, steps S1 to S7 are the same as those in FIG. 3, and these steps are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and are therefore omitted here.
[0110]
After executing an activity (step S5), select the next activity in the original workflow (step S6), and proceed with the inspection, before the inspector proceeds to the next inspection (to be confirmed) When it is determined that there is (content) (step S81), the current workflow is temporarily exited and another inspection (temporary inspection) is performed.
[0111]
The implementation of this temporary examination is not limited to the judgment of the examiner himself as described above. For example, the temporary examination may be based on instructions or advice from a doctor in another place, or in advance in a special case during the workflow. There are cases where it is set as an option (a test that is performed out of the mainstream only in certain special situations) and is followed.
[0112]
In any case, when the inspection name is selected by the inspector (or automatically selected by the workflow) in performing the temporary inspection that was not initially scheduled (step S82), the workflow up to that point is temporarily interrupted, Each activity is executed in accordance with a series of workflows for the temporary inspection (step S83). The execution of each activity follows each step of the workflow processing program shown in the flowchart of FIG.
[0113]
When all the activities for the selected examination are completed and the temporary examination is completed (step S84), the process returns to the original workflow again. Then, the next activity that should have proceeded immediately before the interruption by the temporary inspection is selected (step S6).
[0114]
If the inspection time fluctuates due to such an interruption of the temporary inspection, the latest inspection time information and the progress time are corrected when the interruption occurs to obtain the latest time information.
[0115]
Next, FIG. 9 shows an example of workflow processing in the present embodiment. In the figure, steps S41 to S50 are the same as those in FIG. 4, and these steps are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and are therefore omitted here.
[0116]
While executing each activity based on the workflow processing program, if it is determined that another inspection (temporary inspection) needs to be performed as a result of executing “normal ultrasound diagnosis” in step S43 (step S81 in FIG. 8). In the case of YES), the temporary inspection is first performed in an interrupted manner without immediately proceeding to the contrast preparation for the next contrast inspection (step S44).
[0117]
When the execution of the temporary inspection is the temporary inspection A and B, when the operator selects the temporary inspection A, the activity of “Extraordinary inspection A” (step S91) is executed. As a result, the operator's monitor first displays a message prompting the preparation for the temporary inspection A. The inspector starts preparation for the temporary inspection A according to this message.
[0118]
On the other hand, when the temporary examination A is selected for the subject, explanation (provided information X) is provided about the purpose and content of the examination through the subject monitor and the subject speaker / microphone. When the explanation about the examination ends, information (provided information X) such as scenery, pictures of pictures and music for giving the subject a mental comfort is provided thereafter.
[0119]
The inspector starts actual inspection when preparation is completed.
[0120]
When the temporary inspection A is completed, the inspector continues to select the temporary inspection B. As a result of this selection, each activity is executed in the same manner as in the special examination A for the “special examination B” (step S92).
[0121]
When both of the temporary examinations A and B are completed, the activity for “imaging preparation” (step S44) scheduled next before the interruption for the temporary examination is selected (step S6 in FIG. 8) and executed. Thereafter, each activity is executed in the same manner as in the first embodiment until step S50.
[0122]
As described above, in the present embodiment, even if a temporary examination interrupts, the provided information corresponding to the interruption examination is provided to the subject, so that the examination will be performed by the subject. It is possible to accurately grasp the inspection status such as what the inspection is performed for, and how much the inspection time is extended by the interruption. Furthermore, provided information that gives a mental feeling of comfort is provided for the time other than the explanation related to the examination. Therefore, the subject can take a test without being more uneasy than necessary.
[0123]
In addition, even when there is such an interruption, it is possible to provide a flexible response of the workflow and prevent the inspection efficiency from being lowered.
[0124]
Compared to an MRI inspection or the like, in an inspection by an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, it may be necessary to interrupt an additional inspection flexibly during the inspection as in the present embodiment. Therefore, this embodiment is particularly effective in the case of diagnosis using an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.
[0125]
The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and can be used with various modifications. For example, although the above-described embodiment has been described with respect to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, it may be implemented with a medical diagnostic apparatus such as an X-ray CT apparatus, an MRI apparatus, or an X-ray diagnostic apparatus.
[0126]
Further, the information provided to the subject may be based on television broadcasting, and instructions and examination explanations may be interrupted and interrupted only when necessary.
[0127]
Furthermore, information provided to the subject may be stored in a server provided outside, and necessary information may be taken in via a communication line when necessary. In this case, since the provided information is in an independent server, it is relatively easy to update information data. Therefore, for example, the latest news updated every day can be provided instead of landscape images and animations.
[0128]
By using the external server in this way, not only can a variety of information be provided to the subject, but also an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, a workflow navigation PC, an image display PC (subject monitor) ), It is not necessary to store the provided information, so that it is possible to reduce these hardware loads.
[0129]
Furthermore, the instruction / information to the subject by voice may be voice recorded and registered in advance or voice generated by a voice synthesizer, in addition to voice directly uttered by the examiner.
[0130]
In the description of the embodiment of the present invention, the case where an inspector camera and a subject camera are installed has been described. However, these cameras are particularly used in the case of an X-ray (CT) diagnostic apparatus, an MRI apparatus, or the like. Needless to say, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is not always necessary because the inspector and the person to be inspected are normally inspected next to each other.
[0131]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, appropriate information provision is performed by changing the content of information to be provided to the subject during the examination according to the operation switching of the device, the input operation to the device, the information of the subject, etc. be able to.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display screen according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a flow of a workflow processing program according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is an example of inspection using workflow processing according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to second and third embodiments;
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a control flow of an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a workflow processing program according to a sixth embodiment.
FIG. 9 is an example of inspection using workflow processing according to the sixth embodiment;
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment
5. Control processor
7). Internal storage
9. Image generation circuit
10. Audio processing circuit
11. Camera processing circuit
13. Inspector monitor
14 Speaker / microphone for inspector
17. Patient monitor
18. Patient's speaker / microphone

Claims (13)

Image generating means for generating a medical image representing a state in the subject by transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves;
Provision information storage means for storing provision information;
Information generation means for generating actual provision information content based on the provision information stored in the provision information storage means;
First display means for displaying a medical image generated by the image generation means;
Second display means for displaying the provided information content generated by the information generating means;
Inspection procedure storage means for storing the inspection procedure;
Control means for controlling the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the examination procedure stored in the examination procedure storage means,
The information generation means generates actual provision information content based on the provision information stored in the provision information storage means,
The second display means can display the information provided by the information generation means in accordance with the examination procedure stored in the examination procedure storage means, and can also display information on the safety of diagnosis by the examination. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by being.   2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image generation unit, the provided information storage unit, the examination procedure storage unit, the control unit, the information generation unit, and the first display unit are provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to 1. A selection means for selecting at least one of a plurality of inspection procedures stored in the inspection procedure storage means;
The control means controls the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the examination procedure selected by the selection means,
The information generation means selects one of a plurality of provision information stored in the provision information storage means for each inspection procedure selected by the selection means, and provides information content based on the selected provision information The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein:   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the provided information content includes a plurality of items, and each item is switched according to the progress of the examination procedure. It further comprises input means for input operation,
The provision information storage means stores a plurality of provision information,
The control means controls the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus based on an input operation by the input means,
The information generation means is for inputting patient information, inputting examination information, setting conditions for generating a medical image, instructing start and end of data collection for generating a medical image, storing examination information, and obtaining a measurement value from the medical image. Providing the provision information content based on the provision information corresponding to the input operation stored in the provision information storage unit in response to an input operation of the input unit according to at least one of the operations related to the measurement process The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: It further comprises input means for input operation,
The provided information storage means stores a plurality of provided information related to the explanation of the examination,
2. The information generation unit generates a provision information content based on provision information corresponding to the input operation stored in the provision information storage unit in response to an input operation of the input unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of any one of thru | or 4. An input means for inputting information relating to at least one of gender, age, and disease name as information on the subject;
The provision information storage means stores a plurality of provision information,
5. The information generation unit generates provision information content based on provision information corresponding to information input by the input unit and stored in the provision information storage unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to item 1.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information generation unit generates information related to an examination time as one of provided information contents. It has a TV camera for taking optical images,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information generation unit captures an image photographed by the television camera as a part of the provided information content.   The ultrasound according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least the second display means of the first display means and the second display means includes a display by sound or sound. Diagnostic device. A microphone for collecting audio is provided in the vicinity of the first display means,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a speaker that provides sound is provided in the vicinity of the second display unit.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the content displayed on the second display unit can be confirmed by an operator who operates the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. .   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the provided information content includes information related to an examination and information unrelated to the examination.

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