JP5843239B2 - Method and apparatus for assisting understanding of two-dimensional diagnostic images in diagnostic imaging - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for assisting understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis. More specifically, a living body formed by or within a transparent block, particularly a human organ or a three-dimensional model (model) of an organ, and a laser beam irradiation apparatus or laser that irradiates a laser beam having a linear irradiation shape Use a pointer device to understand three-dimensionally an organ or a two-dimensional image of an organ displayed on a display means such as a display or a film, and understand a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis such as ultrasonic image diagnosis. About things that help.

  In the medical field, diagnosis based on images using an ultrasonic image inspection apparatus, an X-ray imaging apparatus, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) apparatus, or the like is generally performed. Images obtained with these devices are two-dimensional images, not three-dimensional images. However, in planning surgical procedures and medical education in the surgical field, it is necessary to understand in three dimensions the organs and organs that have complex three-dimensional structures.

  Usually, in order to understand a captured two-dimensional image three-dimensionally, two or more two-dimensional images are observed in combination, and two-dimensional position information is constructed into three-dimensional position information in the observer's head. It is done by understanding. Therefore, it is difficult for an experienced clinician to accurately and quickly understand 2D position information as 3D position information.

  In addition, when a patient receives information necessary for accepting and selecting a medical treatment or treatment from a doctor (hereinafter referred to as “informed consent”), the patient may be subjected to, for example, an ultrasonic imaging examination. Even if an image (hereinafter referred to as an “echo image” and a diagnosis based on the device) is shown and received an explanation, the portion that is shown two-dimensionally in the echo image is an organ. It is very difficult to recognize three-dimensionally what part of the organ is.

Human body models (whole body skeletal model, muscle anatomical model, human anatomical model), organ models, etc. have been developed to enable the three-dimensional understanding of the structure of the human body and the organ (Non-patent Document 1). .
In addition, computer software has been developed that can cut three-dimensional images of organs and 3D images of organs displayed on a computer display screen at a free cross-section, and observe the cross-section and the inside (non-patent document). Reference 2).
These models and display images can intuitively understand and recognize the structure of the human body, the structure of organs and organs in a three-dimensional manner. The original structure is easy to understand.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic imaging utilizes the property that when ultrasonic waves, which are minute vibrations, propagate through the body, they are reflected at a location where there is a difference in hardness in the body and an echo (reflected wave) is generated. In general, a plurality of (100 to 400) vibrators installed on an ultrasonic probe (hereinafter referred to as “probe”) are used to irradiate an internal organ or organ in a planar shape, and the irradiated ultrasonic wave is transmitted to the organ or organ. An echo is reflected at the interface of the organ (where the hardness is different), and the generated echo is received by a probe, and machine processing is performed to obtain a two-dimensional image of the organ interface. The obtained two-dimensional image becomes a two-dimensional image that is cut by a plane formed by ultrasonic waves. Specifically, the obtained two-dimensional image is a cross-sectional image obtained from a direction perpendicular to a plane formed by emitted ultrasonic waves. (Non Patent Literature 3)

http://www.humanbody.jp/ (human body model)

http://www.aetjapan.com/software.php?HUGO (3D human body model software)

http://www.wel.iwate-u.ac.jp/okawai/onpa/sa3_echography.htm

  However, even if an explanation is given using an organ model or the like, it is intuitively recognized whether the part displayed in the echo image due to the reflected wave in ultrasonic diagnostic imaging is an organ or an organ part. It is difficult. In particular, when displaying an echo image while changing the direction by placing the probe on the human body during an ultrasonic inspection, it is difficult to explain the direction of ultrasonic irradiation using the probe using a model. And there is a problem that the necessary information cannot be sufficiently communicated to the residents.

  In addition, organs and organ three-dimensional images displayed on a computer display screen require organ processing data to be temporarily imported into the computer, and software processing operations via a user interface such as a keyboard or mouse are required. Therefore, there is a problem that takes time and hinders intuitive understanding of the three-dimensional structure.

  The inventors of the present invention have conducted research on the problem that two-dimensional images, particularly two-dimensional images in ultrasonic diagnostic imaging can be easily understood in three dimensions, and have developed a three-dimensional model (general Is called a 3D crystal and uses a laser processing machine to form countless ultra-fine cracks in glass, called “ultra-fine dots”. Focusing on the laser pointer device that irradiates the laser beam with a linear irradiation shape, and irradiating the laser beam on the three-dimensional model, the laser beam is transmitted through the three-dimensional model. At the same time, it was irregularly reflected on the surface of the 3D model, and a 2D cross-sectional image was drawn in the 3D model.

  In addition, the term “draw” in the description, claims, and abstract refers to a laser beam having a linear irradiation shape from a given direction angle into a three-dimensional model in which the outer surface, which is a boundary surface, is a diffusely reflecting surface. It is used to mean that a line appears or appears due to partial irregular reflection when the laser beam is transmitted through the outer surface when irradiated. Specifically, when the laser beam is irradiated on the outer surface of the three-dimensional model, the outer frame line of the cross section appears or appears in the three-dimensional model as if the passing portion is cut in a plane. That means.

This phenomenon will be described based on the schematic explanatory diagram of FIG. FIG. 7A is a schematic plan view, and FIG. 7B is a schematic side view.
In a transparent block 1 made of a glass cube, a three-dimensional model 10 of a living organ or organ (expressed in an egg shape) to be diagnosed is formed by forming innumerable ultrafine dots by laser processing. Form. The surface of the three-dimensional model 10 is an irregular reflection surface 16 of countless ultrafine dots.

  The three-dimensional model 10 is irradiated with a laser beam 20 having a linear irradiation shape from the laser pointer device 2. As shown in the figure, the laser beam 20 expands in a so-called plane, passes through the three-dimensional model 10, and causes irregular reflection by the irregular reflection surface 16 on the surface of the three-dimensional model 10. A light outline 14 is created. A two-dimensional cross-sectional image 15 that is cut by a laser beam is drawn at a location surrounded by the contour 14. The two-dimensional cross-sectional image 15 is included in the organ or the three-dimensional model 10 of the organ.

  By associating a two-dimensional cross-sectional image in the three-dimensional model formed by irradiating the three-dimensional model with laser light and a plane formed by a plurality of ultrasonic waves emitted from the probe of the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus The cross-sectional image formed by the laser beam can be compared with the echo image of the organ obtained by the ultrasonic diagnostic imaging apparatus.

That is, it is created by a method of forming a three-dimensional irregular reflection surface with countless ultra-fine dots by laser processing (hereinafter referred to as “laser three-dimensional processing method”) in or on a transparent material such as transparent glass. When a 3D model is irradiated with laser light, an observer can view a 2D cross-sectional image and a 3D organ or organ shape through a transparent part of a transparent material, specifically a transparent glass or plastic block. Since it can be visually recognized at the same time, a two-dimensional cross-sectional image can be intuitively understood in three dimensions.
In addition to forming a 3D model in a transparent material, the 3D model itself is made of a transparent material such as glass or plastic, and the surface of the 3D model is a diffuse reflection surface. The irradiated laser light causes irregular reflection on the irregular reflection surface, and a two-dimensional cross-sectional image can be drawn on the three-dimensional model.

Therefore, for example, in actual ultrasonic image diagnosis, it is possible to match the echo screen obtained when irradiating ultrasonic waves in the same direction as the laser light irradiation direction and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image drawn in the three-dimensional model It becomes. At this time, if the image of the actual ultrasound image diagnosis is displayed on the display and the irradiation direction of the laser light is adjusted to be the same as the inspection image of the echo screen obtained by the ultrasound image diagnosis, the experience is poor. It becomes easy for the residents and patients to understand the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis three-dimensionally.
The present invention has been completed based on this finding.

(Object of the present invention)
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to make it possible for a trainee or patient who has little experience to easily understand a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis three-dimensionally.

Means taken by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problems are as follows.
The present invention is a method for assisting understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis by rendering a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a contour of a two-dimensional cross-section of the organ or organ in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ. A three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ that causes transmission and irregular reflection of laser light is formed in a block of transparent material that can transmit laser light, and the three-dimensional model is formed from the outside of the block. Irradiate a laser beam with a linear shape toward the model, and draw a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or two-dimensional cross-sectional image of the organ or organ in the three-dimensional model by transmission and diffuse reflection of the irradiated laser light. Thus, the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the outline of the two-dimensional cross-section and the entire three-dimensional model can be simultaneously compared to help understand the two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis.

  The present invention is a method for assisting understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis by rendering a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a contour of a two-dimensional cross-section of the organ or organ in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ. The three-dimensional model itself has the property of causing transmission and irregular reflection of laser light, and the three-dimensional model is irradiated with laser light whose irradiation shape is linear from the outside, and the irradiated laser The two-dimensional cross-sectional image of the organ or organ or the contour of the two-dimensional cross-section is depicted in the three-dimensional model by light transmission and irregular reflection, and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross-section and the entire three-dimensional model This is a method for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis, which enables simultaneous comparison.

  In the present invention, in addition to a comparison between a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ and a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a contour of a two-dimensional cross section, a two-dimensional diagnostic image of the living organ or organ displayed on the display means The three-dimensional model and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross-section are preferably compared.

  The living body organ or the three-dimensional model of the organ is preferably drawn by a diffuse reflection surface formed by fine cracks by laser processing in a transparent material block.

  A three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ is formed by a block made of a transparent material, and it is preferable that the three-dimensional model causes irregular reflection due to fine cracks caused by laser processing.

  Two-dimensional irradiation corresponding to a two-dimensional diagnostic image in a three-dimensional model by irradiating laser light from any direction and angle with respect to the three-dimensional model by holding and operating the laser light irradiation device by a human. It is preferable to draw a cross-sectional image or an outline of a two-dimensional cross section.

  The laser beam irradiation device is preferably a laser pointer device.

  The living organ or the three-dimensional model of the organ may be any organ or organ as long as it can perform image diagnosis by various image diagnostic methods. For example, when used for comparison with ultrasound imaging, any organ or organ that can be diagnosed by ultrasound imaging may be used. Specifically, pancreas, heart Liver, spleen, heart, prostate, bladder, blood vessel, brain, eyeball, thyroid gland, mammary gland, etc., but are not limited to these organs.

  The image diagnosis is preferably an ultrasonic image diagnosis.

  In addition, the present invention helps to understand a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis by rendering a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a two-dimensional cross-sectional outline of the organ or organ in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ. This is a device that is formed in a transparent material block that can transmit laser light, and that forms a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ that causes transmission and irregular reflection of laser light, or a shape of a living organ or organ. A three-dimensional model formed to cause transmission and irregular reflection of laser light, and a laser light irradiation device that irradiates laser light with a linear irradiation shape, and is irradiated from the outside toward the three-dimensional model. The two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross section of the organ or organ is drawn in the three-dimensional model by transmission and irregular reflection of the laser beam, and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross section and the three-dimensional cross section Comparison with total Dell was allow simultaneously, a device to aid in the understanding of two-dimensional diagnostic images in image diagnosis.

  An actual biological organ or a display means for displaying a two-dimensional diagnostic image of the organ, and in addition to the comparison between the three-dimensional model and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross section, the biological body displayed on the display means It is preferable to be able to compare with other organs or two-dimensional diagnostic images of the organ.

  It is preferable that the laser irradiation apparatus is independent of the three-dimensional model, and the laser beam can be irradiated from an arbitrary angle and direction to the three-dimensional model by human operation.

  It is preferable to include an irradiation direction setting device that has a mounting unit for the laser irradiation device or the laser pointer device and sets the irradiation direction of the laser light irradiated to the three-dimensional model.

  The irradiation direction setting device includes a column erected on the base, a lifting body that moves up and down along the column, a laser irradiation device or a laser pointer device holder that is provided on the lifting body, and the holder is mounted The laser beam emitted from the laser irradiation device or laser pointer device is adjusted in the vertical tilt angle and rotated clockwise or counterclockwise around the axial direction of the laser irradiation device or laser pointer device. It is preferable to adjust the angle around the axis of the irradiated laser light.

  A three-dimensional model of the abdomen and / or chest of a human body is formed in a block of transparent material through which laser light can be transmitted and visible inside, or a block of transparent material through which laser light can be transmitted and visible. A three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ that causes transmission and irregular reflection of laser light corresponds to a predetermined position in the human body in the three-dimensional model of the abdomen and / or chest of the human body. Are preferably arranged.

  Formed in a hollow body made of a transparent material that can transmit laser light, in the form of a human abdomen and / or chest, and formed by fine cracks formed by laser processing through a block of transparent material that can transmit laser light. It has a living organ having a diffusely reflecting surface or a three-dimensional model of the organ, and the position of the three-dimensional model is preferably formed at the same position as a predetermined position on the human body.

  If the internal structure of the organ is complex, such as the heart, the internal structure (boundary surfaces of the ventricle, atrium, etc.) is formed in advance by a laser three-dimensional processing method, or it is created by disassembling each part. However, it can be provided by assembling it. In this case, boundary surfaces such as the ventricle and the atrium need to be irregular reflection surfaces.

  The formation of a biological organ or organ shape is also created by the laser three-dimensional processing method described above. This processing method uses the principle that when three laser beams are irradiated inside a transparent glass block, the inside of the glass generates heat at the intersection of the laser beams, generating ultra-fine dots. Based on the three-dimensional data of the object, it is possible to reproduce a three-dimensional shaped object inside the glass block by forming innumerable ultra-fine dots inside the glass block by computer control.

In this case, even a complicated structure such as the heart can be easily depicted by the laser three-dimensional processing method.
In the laser three-dimensional processing method, a three-dimensional model of an organ or an organ can be formed inside a transparent glass block if a computer is given three-dimensional data of a living body, particularly a human organ or organ.

  The standards of these three-dimensional models may be created with the size of the living body itself, but the three-dimensional model is irradiated with a laser beam having a linear irradiation shape, and the cross section (the crossing of the irregular reflection surface and the laser beam) is performed. If the model is too large, it is necessary to widen the linear width of the laser light to be irradiated. As a result, the laser light irradiation device It is recommended to use a scaled model because it is excessive.

  As described above, the three-dimensional model in the present invention is formed in the shape of an organ or organ of a target living body using plastic, glass, inorganic crystal material, or the like that transmits laser light, and the surface thereof is an irregular reflection surface. Can also be provided. In this case, if the internal structure of the organ has a complicated structure like the heart, the internal structure (the boundary surface of the ventricle, the atrium, etc.) is drawn in advance by the laser three-dimensional processing method, or it is disassembled into parts. And can be provided by assembling it.

  Examples of the transparent block according to the present invention include glass, inorganic crystal materials, plastics and the like, but glass is preferably used.

Forming a three-dimensional model in the transparent block by the above-described laser three-dimensional processing method, and what is formed are well known, for example, 3D crystal / 3D laser crystal (trade name: Make One Co., Ltd.) Is sold.
In the case of a three-dimensional model formed by a laser three-dimensional processing method, even if the internal structure is complex, such as the heart, the internal structure can be easily depicted, and the rendering surface should be a diffuse reflection surface. Can do.

  As a method for producing a three-dimensional model, a transparent block is formed in advance on a living organ or organ (by a mold or sculpture), and then a fine irregular reflection surface is formed on the boundary surface with a precision file, sandpaper or the like. Is illustrated.

  A laser processing apparatus capable of performing laser processing in a transparent block by a laser three-dimensional processing method is known, and examples thereof include a femtosecond ultrafine processing apparatus (trade name: Tokyo Instruments Co., Ltd.).

  In the present invention, in order to make the diagnosis based on the comparison between the diagnostic image and the human body easier to understand, the above-described three-dimensional model is replaced with a human body model (specifically, an outer frame of a human body shape) made of a transparent and laser light transmitting material. It is also recommended to use a solid model in which an organ or an organ is arranged at a position occupied in each human body.

  This human body model uses a human body model of the abdomen and / or chest especially for the purpose of contrast with echo images of ultrasonic imaging, and as an organ or organ, the heart, liver, spleen, pancreas, Examples include kidneys, bladder, major blood vessels and the like. By using a human body type three-dimensional solid model in which these are arranged at appropriate positions in each human body in the human body model, it is possible to further deepen the understanding of the three-dimensional positional relationship of the diagnosis and the comparison between images. it can.

  A human body type three-dimensional model including these organs or a three-dimensional model of the organ can also be created by a laser three-dimensional processing method. Specifically, glass, plastics, inorganic crystal materials, etc. that transmit laser light are molded into a human body (abdomen and / or chest, etc.) by a mold or sculpture and processed so as not to diffusely reflect the surface. The human body type three-dimensional model is also provided by rendering each organ or organ at an appropriate position in each human body (body) by the laser three-dimensional processing method described above.

  In such a three-dimensional human body model, there may be one organ or organ existing inside the body, but in order to understand the diagnosis of various organs, a plurality of organs or organs are arranged. You can also

  In the present invention, a laser irradiation device or a laser pointer device capable of irradiating a laser beam having a linear irradiation shape is used. Such laser irradiation devices and laser pointer devices are well known. For example, laser pointer devices include a laser pattern projector (trade name: Moritex Co., Ltd.).

These laser irradiation devices and laser pointer devices can irradiate various forms of laser light.
For example, when a point is drawn on a target screen or the like as a laser pointer, the slit is formed into a dot shape, and laser light is irradiated through the slit. In this case, the laser beam is irradiated in a straight line (one-dimensionally) in the irradiation direction, and a point is drawn on the target screen or the like.
In addition, when the slit is a straight groove and laser light is irradiated through the straight slit, the laser light is irradiated in a planar (two-dimensional) direction toward the irradiation direction, and on the screen or the like to be irradiated. A straight line is drawn.

  In other words, the term “laser beam having a linear irradiation shape” as used in the present invention means that a straight line 120 is applied to the screen S or the like when irradiated from a laser irradiation device or the laser pointer device 2 as shown in FIG. Means a laser beam 20 that forms an image, and is different from a laser beam that describes a point. Usually, the laser beam is irradiated through a linear slit, and ideally, the laser beam is emitted in a planar shape.

Specifically, referring to FIG. 7, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the laser beam 20 emitted from the laser beam irradiation device or the laser pointer device 2 is shown in FIG. ) Means a laser beam 20 that is fan-shaped and linear from the schematic side view shown in FIG. 7B.
However, in FIG. 7A, the concept of light is illustrated by a plurality of arrows so that the concept of light can be easily understood. However, the laser beam 20 of normal intensity cannot be normally visually recognized. However, when the irradiated laser beam 20 reaches the three-dimensional model 10, a linear two-dimensional cross-sectional image 15 is connected to the irregular reflection surface 16.

  Similarly, in FIG. 7A, for the sake of easy understanding, a plurality of linear laser beams are illustrated as being irradiated at a constant interval. Light is irradiated.

Irradiation of laser light of these shapes by a laser pointer can be performed by two small mirrors, a diffraction grating, or the like in addition to the method using the slit.
As the irradiation shape of the laser beam used in the present invention, a laser beam having a shape that is irradiated in a planar shape as described above and shown in FIGS.
In the present invention, it is essential that the laser beam having the shape is irradiated. However, the irradiation method is not particularly limited, and other than the method using a slit, a method using a mirror, a diffraction grating, or the like may be used. .

In addition, the laser beam in the present invention is not particularly limited, but may be a laser beam emitted from a generally commercially available laser pointer. Specifically, it is usually recommended to use red laser light having a wavelength of 635 to 690 nm or green laser light having a wavelength of 532 nm.
In the case of red laser light, if the wavelength is too long in the wavelength region, it may be difficult to view because it is close to the infrared region, and laser light of 650 nm or less is recommended, and laser light of 635 nm is particularly preferable.
Of course, although it is inferior in visibility, a laser beam in the region of 650 to 690 nm can also be used in the present invention.
Besides this, laser light of blue, yellow, etc. may be used.

The output of the laser pointer used in the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it is a commercially available laser pointer output. Unlike commercially available products, if the output is too low, it may be difficult to obtain a clear cross-sectional image.
The present invention can be satisfactorily implemented by using a laser pointer that is generally about 0.2 milliwatts (class 1) or larger than class 1 and less than 1 milliwatt (class 2) as a commercially available laser pointer.
Of course, it is possible to use a laser pointer (class 3, class 4) having a higher output, but there is a risk of causing a problem from the viewpoint of safety.

In the present invention, when a class 1 or class 2 laser pointer is used, the laser beam irradiated in the above-described plane is traced with the naked eye when traveling in the air or when there is no irregular reflection surface. Although (planar trajectory) cannot be confirmed, when it reaches the irregular reflection surface of the three-dimensional model used in the present invention, it appears linearly on the irregular reflection surface.
Of course, when the laser output is high, such as class 3 or class 4, the locus of the laser beam can be visually recognized in the presence of a reflector.

The display means for the two-dimensional diagnostic image includes a display, a film, and paper. For the reasons described above, the three-dimensional model can form an outline including the internal structure of the organ or organ in addition to the outline of the organ or organ of the living body. In this case, a three-dimensional model is formed from the central portion toward the outside.
(Work)

  From the laser pointer device so as to correspond to the two-dimensional diagnostic image (echo image) of the biological organ or organ displayed on the display means on the three-dimensional model of the biological organ or organ created by the laser three-dimensional processing method Irradiation is performed with a linear laser beam.

The irradiated laser light is diffusely reflected by the ultrafine dots of the three-dimensional model, and a two-dimensional cross-sectional image corresponding to the two-dimensional diagnostic image is depicted in the three-dimensional model.
In this case, all of the laser light irradiated to the three-dimensional model is not diffusely reflected on the irregular reflection surface, which is the formation surface of the three-dimensional model, but most of the laser light is transmitted.

  When there is a three-dimensional model irregular reflection surface further ahead, the laser beam transmitted at this time is irregularly reflected by the irregular reflection surface, and similarly appears to form a linear outline on the irregular reflection surface. Similarly, a part of the laser light is diffusely reflected and a lot of laser light is transmitted through the irregular reflection surface. As a result, even in a three-dimensional model depicting a complicated solid, the cross-sectional image can be accurately depicted.

  Specifically, when the three-dimensional model is a heart, the heart is not a simple solid, and the inside is divided into a ventricle and an atrium. According to the laser three-dimensional processing method, these ventricles, 3D modeling of complex forms including the atria is possible. Furthermore, as described above, because of the transparency of the laser beam to be irradiated, even in the case of such a complex internal structure, ultrasonic image diagnosis It is possible to render a two-dimensional cross-sectional image similar to the two-dimensional diagnostic image of the organ obtained in step (1).

  Since the organ or the three-dimensional model of the organ is formed around the two-dimensional cross-sectional image, the two-dimensional cross-sectional image is included in the three-dimensional model. In other words, the observer can see the 2D cross-sectional image and the 3D organ or the shape of the organ at the same time in an overlapping state through the transparent part of the transparent block. it can.

  Therefore, if the irradiation direction of the laser beam is adjusted so that the cross-sectional image in the three-dimensional model and the two-dimensional diagnostic image (echo image) displayed on the display means such as a display coincide, the inexperienced resident And a patient can easily understand a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis three-dimensionally.

  In particular, when the direction of the probe is changed during ultrasonic image diagnosis, the echo image displayed on the display also changes. By changing the cross-sectional image by changing the irradiation direction of the laser light in accordance with the change, the observer or the patient can view the organ or organ including the two-dimensional diagnostic image displayed on the display and the cross-sectional image in the transparent block. Compare the three-dimensional model of the two-dimensional diagnosis image in real time in three dimensions.

  According to the present invention, since a two-dimensional cross-sectional image due to irregular reflection of laser light can be depicted in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ formed in a transparent block, through the transparent portion of the transparent block, It is possible to simultaneously view a two-dimensional cross-sectional image and a three-dimensional organ or the shape of an organ in an overlapping state.

In addition, by irradiating the three-dimensional model in the transparent block with laser light so that it can correspond to the two-dimensional diagnostic image displayed on the display means, a two-dimensional cross-sectional image is drawn in the three-dimensional model. Can do.
Therefore, by comparing the two-dimensional diagnostic image with the two-dimensional cross-sectional image in the three-dimensional model, it is possible to understand which part of the organ or the organ the two-dimensional diagnostic image corresponds to. Is easy to understand.

  This makes it easy for internists to understand the patient's understanding of informed consent, because even a resident who has little clinical experience, a medical student who has no clinical experience, or a patient can easily understand two-dimensional images in three dimensions. Sharing becomes easy.

  Furthermore, medical students or residents who have little clinical experience can be expected to easily acquire the imaging site in image diagnosis, which is suitable as a medical training material.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the 1st Embodiment of this invention and shows the state which has irradiated the laser beam with the irradiation shape from the laser pointer apparatus to the three-dimensional model of the heart formed in the transparent block. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which changed the irradiation direction of the laser beam from the laser pointer apparatus shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 2nd Embodiment of this invention and shows the state which is irradiating the laser beam whose irradiation shape is linear form from the laser pointer apparatus to the three-dimensional model of the heart formed in the transparent block. 3 shows a third embodiment of the present invention, in which a torso outline of a human body is formed in a transparent block, an organ or an organ is formed in the torso outline, and a laser whose irradiation shape is linear from a laser pointer device is shown It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which is irradiating light. 4 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention, in which a hollow body of a human body is formed of transparent plastic or glass, an organ or an organ is arranged in the hollow body, and a laser whose irradiation shape is linear from a laser pointer device It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which is irradiating light. It is a schematic explanatory drawing which shows the concept of the "irradiation shape is a linear laser beam" concerning this invention. It is the model explanatory drawing which showed the basic idea of this invention, (a) is a schematic plan view, (b) is a schematic side view.

The present invention will be described in detail based on the embodiments shown in the drawings.
1 and 2 show a first embodiment of the present invention.
An apparatus 100 for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis includes a glass transparent block 1 including a three-dimensional model 10 of a heart formed by a laser three-dimensional processing method, and a laser beam 20 having a linear irradiation shape. Is provided with a laser pointer device 2 capable of irradiating.
As described above, the three-dimensional model 10 is formed in the glass transparent block 1 by the laser three-dimensional processing method, and the laser pointer device 2 is publicly known, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

(Work)
The transparent block 1 is placed on the mounting table 4, and the laser beam 20 is irradiated from the laser pointer device 2 to the three-dimensional model 10 in the transparent block 1. The laser beam 20 passes through the transparent block 1 and the three-dimensional model 10 formed in the transparent block 1 and exits from the transparent block 1.
At that time, irregular reflection is caused by the ultra-fine dots on the surface of the three-dimensional model 10 formed at the time of laser processing, and a portion surrounded by the irregular reflection portion of the three-dimensional model 10 is depicted as a cross-sectional image 12 in the three-dimensional model 10. To do.
As shown in FIG. 2, by changing the irradiation direction of the laser light 20, a cross-sectional image 12 a having a different cross-sectional position and cross-sectional shape is drawn on the three-dimensional model 10 in the transparent block 1.

  Therefore, by irradiating the laser beam 20 to the three-dimensional model 10 so as to correspond to the two-dimensional diagnostic image obtained by the image inspection apparatus and the two-dimensional diagnostic image, the two-dimensional diagnostic image becomes a three-dimensional Which part of the model 10 is the image can be easily understood in three dimensions.

  Also, at the time of ultrasonic image diagnosis, by providing the patient with a three-dimensional understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in real time by matching the captured diagnostic screen with the direction of laser light irradiation on the three-dimensional model When a patient receives informed consent from a doctor, the patient's understanding can be obtained and information can be easily shared.

FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the present invention, and the same or equivalent parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.
A device 100a for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis includes a glass transparent block 1 including a three-dimensional model 10 of a heart formed by a laser three-dimensional processing method as described above, and a linear laser beam. 20 includes a laser pointer device 2 that can irradiate 20, an irradiation direction setting device 3 that sets the irradiation direction of the laser light 20 of the attached laser pointer device 2, and a mounting table 4 on which the transparent block 1 is placed.

  The irradiation direction setting device 3 includes a support column 32 erected on a base 31, an elevating body 33 that moves up and down along the support column 32, and a holder 34 of the laser pointer device 2 provided on the elevating body 33. On the surface of the support column 32, a rack portion 32a is provided over substantially the entire height.

  The support column 32 penetrates the elevating body 33. A pinion gear (not shown) that meshes with the rack portion 32 a is built in the elevator body 33, and a handle or a motor M that rotates the pinion gear is operated to move the elevator body 33 in the height direction X of the column 32.

  As described above, the elevating body 33 includes the holder 34 of the laser pointer device 2. The holder 34 is pivotally supported on the elevating body 33 by a rotation shaft 35. The laser pointer device 2 attached to the holder 34 rotates in the vertical direction Y about the rotation shaft 35, and adjusts the vertical tilt angle of the irradiated laser light 20.

  The holder 34 is incorporated in the outer holder 341 and the outer holder 341 so as to be rotatable by a known technique such as a bearing, and includes an inner holder (not shown) to which the laser pointer device 2 is attached. The inner holder rotates clockwise or counterclockwise about the axial direction of the mounted laser pointer device 2 and adjusts the axial angle Z of the irradiated laser beam 20.

(Work)
The operation of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
For example, the apparatus 100a is installed in the vicinity of the display D of the ultrasonic inspection apparatus. On the mounting surface of the mounting table 4, the transparent block 1 in which the three-dimensional model 10 of the heart formed by laser processing is formed is mounted. An experienced clinician operates the probe of the ultrasonic examination apparatus to display on the display D an echo image that is a two-dimensional image of the diagnosis site of the patient's heart.

  The position of the laser pointer device 2 in the height direction and the vertical inclination of the irradiated laser beam 20 so that the clinician or assistant can visually recognize the same portion as the echo image displayed on the display D by the irregular reflection of the laser beam 20. The angle and the angle around the axis are adjusted so that a two-dimensional cross-sectional image 12b at the same location as the echo image displayed on the display D is drawn in the three-dimensional model 10 of the heart.

  While listening to the explanation of the clinician, the patient can recognize and understand which part of the three-dimensional model 10 the echo image displayed on the display D corresponds to the cross-sectional image 12b.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a third embodiment in which a human body outline is formed in a transparent block, and an organ or organ is formed in the body outline. The same or equivalent parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.
An apparatus 100b for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in an image diagnosis forms a human body 10a as a three-dimensional model in a glass transparent block 1a by the same laser three-dimensional processing method as described above. A laser pointer device 2 capable of irradiating a laser beam 20 having an irradiation shape and a linear shape is provided.
Alternatively, the human body 10a may be formed of a block made of a transparent material that can transmit laser light and visually recognize the inside.

(Work)
The laser beam 20 is irradiated from the laser pointer device 2 to the body 10a in the transparent block 1a. The laser beam 20 passes through the transparent block 1a, the body 10a formed in the transparent block 1a, and the internal organs formed in the body 10a, and exits from the transparent block 1a. At that time, irregular reflection is caused by the surface of the trunk 10a and the ultra fine dots formed on the surface of the body 10a and the organ or the surface of the organ, and a portion surrounded by the irregular reflection portion is depicted as a cross-sectional image 12c.
In the case of the present embodiment, since the relationship between the human body and the organ or the organ can be visually recognized, it becomes easier to understand the comparison between the cross-sectional image 12c and the diagnostic image.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory view showing a fourth embodiment in which a hollow body of a human body is formed of transparent plastic or glass, and an organ or an organ is arranged in the hollow body. The same or equivalent parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.
A device 100c for assisting understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis includes a hollow body 5 of a human body made of transparent plastic or glass, and a heart 10b (surface) formed of transparent plastic or glass in the hollow body 5. With an organ or organ (especially subject to ultrasonic imaging) that includes irregular reflections by laser three-dimensional processing, etc., and an irradiation shape A laser pointer device 2 capable of emitting a linear laser beam 20 is provided.

  As a method for fixing an organ or an organ, known means such as the use of a transparent support member or a suspension member, or a combination thereof can be adopted, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  In the hollow body 5, a liver 50, a spleen 51, a pancreas 52, a right kidney 53, a left kidney 54, a bladder 55, and a prostate 56 are arranged as an organ other than the heart 10 b or a three-dimensional model of the organ.

(Work)
Laser light 20 is emitted from the outside of the hollow body 5 by the laser pointer device 2. (A) shows the state of irradiating the heart 10b, and (B) shows the state of irradiating the bladder 55. The laser light 20 passes through the hollow body 5 and the heart 10 b or the bladder 55 disposed in the hollow body 5, and exits from the hollow body 5. At that time, irregular reflection occurs on the surface of the heart 10b or the bladder 55, and a portion surrounded by the irregular reflection portion is depicted as a cross-sectional image 12d or 12c.
In the case of the present embodiment, since the relationship between the human body and the organ or the organ can be visually recognized, it becomes easier to understand the comparison between the cross-sectional image 12d or 12c and the diagnostic image.

  Note that the terms and expressions used in this specification are merely explanatory and are not limiting at all, and terms and expressions equivalent to the features described in this specification and parts thereof. There is no intention to exclude. It goes without saying that various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention.

(1) According to the present invention, since a two-dimensional cross-sectional image by irregular reflection of laser light can be drawn in a living organ or a three-dimensional model of an organ formed in the transparent block, the transparent block is transparent. Through the portion, it is possible to simultaneously view the two-dimensional cross-sectional image and the three-dimensional organ or the shape of the organ in an overlapping state.

(2) In addition, by irradiating the three-dimensional model in the transparent block with laser light so as to correspond to the two-dimensional diagnostic image displayed on the display means, a two-dimensional cross-sectional image is formed in the three-dimensional model. Can be drawn. Therefore, by comparing the two-dimensional diagnostic image with the two-dimensional cross-sectional image in the three-dimensional model, it is possible to understand which part of the organ or the organ the two-dimensional diagnostic image corresponds to. Is easy to understand.

(3) Because of this, even a resident who has little clinical experience, a medical student who has no clinical experience, or a patient can easily understand a two-dimensional image in three dimensions. This makes it easy to share information.

(4) Furthermore, even a medical student or a resident who has little clinical experience can be expected to easily acquire an imaging part in an image diagnosis, and thus is suitable as a medical training material.

1 transparent block, 1a transparent block, 10 three-dimensional model, 10a body, 10b heart, 12 cross-sectional image, 12a cross-sectional image, 12b cross-sectional image, 12c cross-sectional image, 12d cross-sectional image, 14 contour, 15 two-dimensional cross-sectional image, 16 irregular reflection Surface 2 Laser pointer device, 20 Laser light 3 Irradiation direction setting device, 31 base, 32 support column, 32a rack part, 33 lifting body, 34 holder, 341 outer holder, 35 rotating shaft 4 mounting table
5 hollow body, 50 liver, 51 spleen, 52 pancreas, 53 right kidney, 54 left kidney, 55 bladder, 56 prostate 100 device for helping understanding two-dimensional diagnostic images in imaging 100a two-dimensional diagnostic images in imaging 100b A device that helps understanding two-dimensional diagnostic images in diagnostic imaging 100c A device that helps understand two-dimensional diagnostic images in diagnostic imaging 120 Linear D display, M motor, S screen

Claims (20)

A method of helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis by rendering a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a contour of a two-dimensional cross-section of the organ or organ in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ,
A three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ that causes transmission and irregular reflection of laser light is formed in a block made of a transparent material capable of transmitting laser light, and is directed from the outside of the block toward the three-dimensional model. The irradiation shape is irradiated with a linear laser beam, and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image of the organ or organ or the outline of the two-dimensional cross section is drawn in the three-dimensional model by transmission and irregular reflection of the irradiated laser light, The two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the outline of the two-dimensional cross-section and the entire three-dimensional model can be compared simultaneously.
A method to help understanding two-dimensional diagnostic images in diagnostic imaging. A method of helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis by rendering a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a contour of a two-dimensional cross-section of the organ or organ in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ,
The three-dimensional model itself has the property of causing transmission and diffuse reflection of laser light. The three-dimensional model is irradiated with laser light having a linear irradiation shape from the outside, and transmission of the irradiated laser light is performed. The two-dimensional cross-sectional image of the organ or organ or the contour of the two-dimensional cross section is drawn in the three-dimensional model by irregular reflection, and the contrast between the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross section and the entire three-dimensional model is I was able to do it at the same time,
A method to help understanding two-dimensional diagnostic images in diagnostic imaging. In addition to the comparison between the three-dimensional model of the living organ or organ and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the outline of the two-dimensional cross section, the two-dimensional diagnostic image of the living organ or organ displayed on the display means, and the three-dimensional The model and 2D cross-sectional image or 2D cross-sectional contour can be compared.
A method for assisting understanding of a diagnostic image in the diagnostic imaging according to claim 1. A living organ or a three-dimensional model of an organ is depicted by a diffuse reflection surface formed by fine cracks by laser processing in a block of transparent material.
A method for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in the diagnostic imaging according to claim 1 or 3. A three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ is formed of a transparent material block, and the three-dimensional model causes irregular reflection due to fine cracks by laser processing.
A method for assisting understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in the diagnostic imaging according to claim 2. Two-dimensional irradiation corresponding to a two-dimensional diagnostic image in a three-dimensional model by irradiating laser light from any direction and angle with respect to the three-dimensional model by holding and operating the laser light irradiation device by a human. Draw a cross-sectional image or outline of a two-dimensional cross-section,
A method for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The laser beam irradiation device is a laser pointer device;
A method for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in the diagnostic imaging according to claim 6. The organ of the living body or the three-dimensional model of the organ is at least one selected from pancreas, heart, liver, spleen, heart, prostate, bladder, blood vessel, brain, eyeball, thyroid, mammary gland,
A method for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The diagnostic imaging is ultrasonic diagnostic imaging,
A method for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in the diagnostic imaging according to claim 1. A device for helping understanding of a two-dimensional diagnostic image in image diagnosis by rendering a two-dimensional cross-sectional image or a contour of a two-dimensional cross-section of the organ or organ in a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ,
A laser that is formed in a block of a transparent material that can transmit laser light and that is formed into a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ that causes transmission and irregular reflection of laser light, or a shape of a living organ or organ. A three-dimensional model that causes light transmission and diffuse reflection;
A laser beam irradiation apparatus for irradiating a laser beam having a linear irradiation shape;
With
A two-dimensional cross-sectional image of the organ or organ or an outline of the two-dimensional cross-section is drawn in the three-dimensional model by transmission and diffuse reflection of the laser light irradiated from the outside toward the three-dimensional model, and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image Or, the contour of the two-dimensional section and the entire three-dimensional model can be compared simultaneously.
A device that helps understanding two-dimensional diagnostic images in diagnostic imaging. An actual biological organ or a display means for displaying a two-dimensional diagnostic image of the organ, and in addition to the comparison between the three-dimensional model and the two-dimensional cross-sectional image or the contour of the two-dimensional cross section, the biological body displayed on the display means It is now possible to compare with other organs or two-dimensional diagnostic images of organs.
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of Claim 10. The three-dimensional model formed in the block of transparent material that can transmit laser light is drawn by the irregular reflection surface formed by fine cracks by laser processing,
The three-dimensional model formed in the organ of the living body or the shape of the organ is one that causes irregular reflection by fine cracks by laser processing.
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of Claim 10 or 11. The laser irradiation device is independent of the three-dimensional model, and can be irradiated with laser light from an arbitrary angle and direction to the three-dimensional model by human operation.
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of any one of Claims 10 thru | or 12. The laser beam irradiation device is a laser pointer device;
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of Claim 13. An irradiation direction setting device that has a mounting means for the laser irradiation device or the laser pointer device, and sets the irradiation direction of the laser light irradiated to the three-dimensional model
With
The apparatus which assists understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of any one of Claims 10 thru | or 14. Irradiation direction setting device
A column that is erected on the base,
A lifting body that moves up and down along the column,
A holder of a laser irradiation device or a laser pointer device provided in the lifting body,
With
The holder is configured to adjust the tilt angle in the vertical direction of the laser light emitted from the mounted laser irradiation device or laser pointer device and to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise about the axial direction of the laser irradiation device or laser pointer device. To adjust the angle around the axis of the laser beam that is rotated and irradiated.
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of Claim 15. A three-dimensional model of the abdomen and / or chest of a human body is formed in a block of transparent material through which laser light can be transmitted and visible inside, or a block of transparent material through which laser light can be transmitted and visible. A three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ that causes transmission and irregular reflection of laser light corresponds to a predetermined position in the human body in the three-dimensional model of the abdomen and / or chest of the human body. Arranged,
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of any one of Claims 10 thru | or 16. Formed in a hollow body made of a transparent material that can transmit laser light, in the form of a human abdomen and / or chest, and formed by fine cracks formed by laser processing through a block of transparent material that can transmit laser light. It has a three-dimensional model of a living organ or organ having a diffusely reflecting surface, and the three-dimensional model is arranged at the same position as a predetermined position in the human body,
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image in the image diagnosis of any one of Claims 10 thru | or 16. The living organ or the three-dimensional model of the organ is at least one selected from pancreas, heart, liver, spleen, heart, prostate, bladder, blood vessel, brain, eyeball, thyroid, mammary gland,
The apparatus which assists understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image of any one of Claims 10 thru | or 18. The diagnostic imaging is ultrasonic diagnostic imaging,
The apparatus which assists the understanding of the two-dimensional diagnostic image of any one of Claims 10 thru | or 19.

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