JP4607538B2 - Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that images and diagnoses the inside of a subject with ultrasonic waves, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that displays a three-dimensional image.

  In recent years, it has become possible to display a three-dimensional image by ultrasonic three-dimensional scanning in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and diagnosis based on the image has become widespread. The three-dimensional scanning method for obtaining a three-dimensional image is extended to ultrasonic three-dimensional scanning by manually moving an ultrasonic probe capable of two-dimensional ultrasonic scanning in contact with the subject. In recent years, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses capable of performing three-dimensional ultrasonic scanning simply by bringing an ultrasonic probe into contact with a subject have come out.

  However, a three-dimensional image obtained from an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus has a narrow visual field range compared to an X-ray CT apparatus, an MRI apparatus, etc., and for those who are not familiar with it from the displayed three-dimensional image, In many cases, the viewpoint direction of the part cannot be easily determined. Further, in recent ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses, the viewpoint of the displayed three-dimensional image can be changed and the diagnostic part can be observed from an arbitrary direction, which makes the determination of the three-dimensional image more difficult.

Thus, it has been proposed to display an indicator indicating the scanning direction of the ultrasonic wave when a three-dimensional image is obtained (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this proposal, a three-dimensional image obtained by the ultrasonic probe moving method is displayed together with an indicator indicating the two-dimensional scanning surface and scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe corresponding to the image.
JP 2000-238 A

  However, in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of taking a three-dimensional image, the operator who is not familiar with the usual ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can immediately superimpose the three-dimensional image from the three-dimensional image or the indicator displayed together with the three-dimensional image. It is not easy to determine the direction of the acoustic probe.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus in which the direction of an ultrasonic probe can be easily associated from an indicator displayed together with a three-dimensional image.

In order to solve the above problems, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention is provided on at least two surfaces of an ultrasonic probe that transmits and receives a wave by scanning an ultrasonic wave three-dimensionally with respect to a subject. A plurality of markers configured to include different colors for each surface, transmission of a driving signal for driving the ultrasonic probe, and reception of an ultrasonic wave reception signal based on reception of an ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic probe A transmission / reception unit that performs reception, an image data generation unit that generates three-dimensional image data based on a reception signal from the transmission / reception unit, and a substantially quadrangular pyramid shape indicating a three-dimensional scanning range in the transmission / reception unit, In conjunction with the direction of the data, indicator generating means for generating an indicator colored on at least one side according to the color of the plurality of markers, and the image data generating means Together with the image data generated by, and having a display means for displaying the indicator generated in response to the image data.

In order to solve the above-described problem, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention includes an ultrasonic probe that performs two-dimensional scanning on an object to transmit and receive waves, and at least two surfaces of the ultrasonic probe. A plurality of markers provided to include different colors for each surface, position detection means for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe, transmission of a drive signal for driving the ultrasonic probe, and the ultrasonic wave Transmission / reception means for receiving an ultrasonic reception signal based on reception of ultrasonic waves from a probe, and three-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves by moving the ultrasonic probe in a predetermined direction with respect to the subject Image generating means for generating three-dimensional image data based on the received signal obtained from the transmitting / receiving means and the position data obtained from the movement of the ultrasonic probe by the position detecting means; Indicator generation for generating an indicator having a shape indicating a scanning range in at least one direction in the image generation means and having at least one side colored according to the color of the plurality of markers in conjunction with the direction of the image data And display means for displaying an indicator generated in accordance with the image data together with the image data generated by the image data generation means.
In order to solve the above-described problem, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention includes an ultrasonic probe that performs two-dimensional scanning on an object to transmit and receive waves, and at least two surfaces of the ultrasonic probe. A plurality of markers provided to include different colors for each surface, a distance for moving the ultrasonic probe, or an ultrasonic probe operation setting means for setting an angle for turning the ultrasonic probe; Transmission / reception means for transmitting a drive signal for driving an ultrasonic probe and receiving an ultrasonic reception signal based on reception of an ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic probe, and the ultrasonic probe for the subject A reception signal obtained from the transmission / reception means by performing three-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves by performing an operation set by the probe operation setting means, and the ultrasonic probe operation setting means An image generation means for generating three-dimensional image data based on a set distance or angle, and a shape indicating a three-dimensional scanning range in the image generation means, and the plurality of the plurality of the plurality of the plurality of the plurality of image data in association with the direction of the image data. Indicator generating means for generating an indicator colored on the side according to the color of the marker, and display means for displaying the indicator generated according to the image data together with the image data generated by the image data generating means It is characterized by having.

According to the present invention, it is possible to intuitively understand the three-dimensional scanning range and the direction of the ultrasonic probe corresponding to the scanning range by using the indicator displayed together with the three-dimensional image. This facilitates scanning of the ultrasonic probe and enables quick diagnosis.

  Examples of the present invention will be described.

  Hereinafter, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 includes an ultrasonic probe 1 that transmits / receives ultrasonic waves to / from a subject P, and a transmission / reception unit 2 that transmits ultrasonic drive signals and receives reflection signals to / from the ultrasonic probe 1. And a data generation unit 3 that processes the reception signal obtained by the transmission / reception unit 2 to generate data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 includes an image data generation unit 4 that generates image data such as two-dimensional or three-dimensional B-mode image data and color Doppler image data from data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data, and a tertiary An indicator generating unit 5 that generates an indicator unit indicating the direction of the ultrasonic probe 1 with respect to the original image data, and a display unit that displays the image data generated by the image data generating unit 4 and the indicator unit generated by the indicator generating unit 5 6, the operation unit 7 for selecting an image data generation mode and inputting various command signals, and the units such as the transmission / reception unit 2, the data generation unit 3, the image data generation unit 4 and the indicator generation unit 5 are integrated. And a system control unit 8 for controlling.

  The ultrasonic probe 1 performs two-dimensional or three-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves in a state in which the tip surface thereof is in contact with the body surface of the subject P, and transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. A plurality of (M × N) piezoelectric vibrators arranged in a matrix are provided at the tip portion. This piezoelectric vibrator is an electroacoustic transducer, which converts an electric pulse (ultrasonic drive signal) into an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave) at the time of transmission, and an ultrasonic reflected wave (from the subject P at reception) ( It has a function of converting received ultrasonic waves into electrical signals (ultrasound received signals).

  The transmission / reception unit 2 generates an ultrasonic drive signal for generating transmission ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic probe 1 and a plurality of channels of ultrasonic reception signals obtained from the piezoelectric transducer of the ultrasonic probe 1. And a receiving unit 22 for performing phasing addition.

  The transmission unit 21 generates a rate pulse that determines the repetition period (Tr) of the ultrasonic pulse radiated to the subject, and a focusing delay time and a two-dimensional or tertiary order for focusing the ultrasonic wave to a predetermined depth during transmission. After applying the deflection delay time for transmitting the ultrasonic wave in the original scanning direction to the rate pulse, M × N piezoelectric vibrators built in the ultrasonic probe 1 are driven, and the subject P is driven. To generate ultrasonic driving pulses for emitting transmission ultrasonic waves.

  The reception unit 22 amplifies a minute ultrasonic reception signal from the ultrasonic probe 1 to ensure a sufficient S / N, and focuses reception ultrasonic waves from a predetermined depth on the ultrasonic reception signal. After giving a focusing delay time for obtaining a narrow reception beam width and a deflection delay time for setting the reception directivity of ultrasonic waves in the two-dimensional or three-dimensional scanning direction, M × N from the piezoelectric vibrator The ultrasonic reception signals of the channels are phased and added to be combined into one.

  The data generation unit 3 performs a B-mode data generation unit 31 that performs signal processing for generating B-mode data on the ultrasonic reception signal phased and added by the reception unit 22, and performs color processing on the ultrasonic reception signal. A color Doppler data generation unit 32 that performs signal processing for generating Doppler data is provided. Data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data generated by the data generation unit 3 is output to the image data generation unit 4.

  In the B mode data generation unit 31, envelope detection is performed on the phase-added ultrasonic reception signal from the reception unit 22, and then logarithmic conversion is performed. The logarithmically converted signal is converted into a digital signal to generate B-mode data.

  The color Doppler data generation unit 32 detects the Doppler shift frequency for the phase-added ultrasonic reception signal from the reception unit 22 and converts it to a digital signal, and then extracts only blood flow information. Autocorrelation processing is performed on the extracted Doppler signal. Then, based on the autocorrelation processing result, an average blood flow velocity value, a variance value, and the like are calculated, and color Doppler data is generated.

  The image data generation unit 4 includes an image data storage unit 41 that stores data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data output from the data generation unit 3, and a plurality of frames supplied from the image data storage unit 41 for each frame. An arithmetic processing unit 42 that generates three-dimensional image data from image data, and a data synthesis unit 43 that performs synthesis processing of information such as image data and setting parameters. Image data such as original B-mode image data and color Doppler image data is output to the display unit 6.

  The image data storage unit 41 sequentially stores data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data from the data generation unit 3 for each ultrasonic scan.

  The arithmetic processing unit 42 arranges image data of a plurality of scanning planes (frames) stored in the image data storage unit 41 in a three-dimensional space and has depth in a direction perpendicular to the tomographic plane. Then, the three-dimensional image data is projected onto two-dimensional coordinates.

  The data synthesizing unit 43 synthesizes information such as setting parameters with the two-dimensional image data from the image data storage unit 41 and the three-dimensional image data from the arithmetic processing unit 42, and then outputs them to the display unit 6. In addition, the data synthesis unit 43 synthesizes the indicator unit generated by the indicator generation unit 5 with the three-dimensional image data from the arithmetic processing unit 42, and then outputs it to the display unit 6.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the indicator generation unit 5 corresponds to the scanning range 1-5 formed by the ultrasonic three-dimensional scanning of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the three-dimensional image data generated by the arithmetic processing unit 42. An indicator unit 62 indicating the same direction is generated.

  The indicator unit 62 is, for example, a three-dimensional square pyramid shaped indicator 62-1 and a wire frame 62-2 showing the entire shape of the volume data of the indicator 62-1 projected in two-dimensional coordinates. It is displayed on the display unit 6 together with the three-dimensional image data via the unit 43. Here, in the indicator 62-1, two of the four side surfaces of the square weight form an indicator A surface 62-1-1 and an indicator B surface 62-1-2.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2B, in the ultrasonic probe 1, ultrasonic three-dimensional scanning is performed on a scanning range 1-5 formed based on a three-dimensional image condition set in advance from the operation unit 7. Done. Further, on the side surface of the probe case 1-4 in the vicinity of the acoustic window 1-3 that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves in the ultrasonic probe 1, the scanning A surface 1-5-1 and the scanning B surface 1- 1 of the scanning range 1-5 are provided. For example, a triangular marker A1-1 and a marker B1-2 corresponding to the position 5-2 are provided.

  The scanning A plane 1-5-1 and the scanning B plane 1-5-2 in the scanning range 1-5 of the ultrasonic probe 1 are the indicator A plane 62-1-1 in the indicator 62-1 of the indicator section 62 and This corresponds to the indicator B surface 62-1-2.

  The indicator 62-1 is schematically designed with a scanning range 1-5, and the indicator A surface 62-1-1 and indicator B surface 62-1-2 of the indicator 62-1 are markers A1-1. In addition, the design is similar to the marker B1-2.

  Therefore, when the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1 are identified and displayed by, for example, a red triangle and a blue triangle, the indicator A surface 62-1-1 and the indicator of the indicator 62-1. The triangular surface of the B surface 62-1-2 has a red and blue design so that the direction of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be seen from the indicator 62-1.

  The marker A1- is also provided on the side surface of the probe case 1-4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 corresponding to the side surface of the square pyramid other than the indicator A surface 62-1-1 and the indicator B surface 62-1-2 of the indicator 62-1. 1 and a marker having a different design from the marker B1-2, the different markers corresponding to the side surfaces of the indicator 62-1 other than the indicator A surface 62-1-1 and the indicator B surface 62-1-2 are also provided. You may make it use the design approximated to.

  Further, the bottom surface of the square pyramid of the indicator 62-1 may be designed to simulate, for example, a matrix-like piezoelectric vibrator of the ultrasonic probe 1 different from the side surface.

  Furthermore, when the surface of the marker A1-1 or the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is formed three-dimensionally, the indicator A surface 62-1-1 and the indicator B surface 62-1- 2 has a three-dimensional design similar to the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2, and the direction of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be seen from the indicator 62-1.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the display unit 6 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel (not shown), and an image such as two-dimensional or three-dimensional B-mode image data or color Doppler image data generated by the image data generation unit 4. Data and indicator unit 62 are displayed on the monitor.

  Although not shown, the operation unit 7 includes an input device such as a switch, a keyboard, a trackball, and a mouse and a touch command screen on an operation panel, and inputs various command signals, selects an image data generation mode, and the like. This is done using a screen.

  Although not shown, the system control unit 8 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and various input information and selection information supplied from the operation unit 7 are stored in the storage circuit. The CPU controls each unit such as the transmission / reception unit 2, the data generation unit 3, the image data generation unit 4, the indicator generation unit 5, and the display unit 6 based on these pieces of information and the entire system.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for performing an inspection using a three-dimensional image. This will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 and FIGS.

  The operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 sets the three-dimensional image condition from the operation unit 7 and then inputs the subject information such as the patient ID and the name of the subject P to perform the operation of starting the examination. Ultrasonic imaging is started (step S1).

  Next, when the operator applies the ultrasonic probe 1 to the subject P, a three-dimensional image of the subject P and an indicator portion are displayed on the display unit 6 (step S2).

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of the display unit 6 on which a three-dimensional image of the subject P and an indicator unit are displayed. On the screen 61 of the display unit 6 in FIG. 4A, the ultrasonic probe 1 is brought into contact with the subject P in step S2 to perform ultrasonic three-dimensional scanning, thereby obtaining a three-dimensional image 61 of the subject P. -1 and an indicator 62 corresponding to the scanning range 1-5 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is displayed in conjunction with the display direction of the image 61-1.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the image 61-1 is obtained by bringing the ultrasonic probe 1 into contact with the subject P and three-dimensionally scanning the ultrasound into the scanning range 1-5 in the body of the subject P. It is done. Accordingly, the image 61-1, the image A surface 61-1-1, and the image B surface 61-1-2 have the scanning range 1-5, the scanning A surface 1-5-1, and the scanning B surface 1-5-. 2 is supported.

  The indicator 62-1, the indicator A surface 62-1-1, and the indicator B surface 62-1-2 in the indicator section 62 are the scanning range 1-5, the scanning A surface 1-5-1, and the scanning B surface 1-. An indicator 62-1 corresponding to 5-2 and corresponding to the scanning range 1-5 indicates the same direction as the image 61-1.

  By the way, since a part of the tumor D existing in the body of the subject P has entered the scanning A plane 1-5-1 side of the scanning range 1-5, a part of the tumor corresponding to a part of the tumor D The image 61-1-3 is displayed on the image A plane 61-1-3 side of the image 61-1.

  Next, by observing the image 61-1 displayed on the screen 61 of the display unit 6, the operator who has found the partial image 61-1-3 of the tumor is the partial image 61-1-3 of the tumor. In order to observe the whole image, an operation for changing the imaging region of the subject P is performed.

  The operator approximated the design of the indicator A surface 62-1-1 corresponding to the image A surface 61-1-1 in order to move the imaging region in the direction of the partial image 61-1-3 of the tumor. The ultrasonic probe 1 is moved in the direction of the marker A1-1 (the direction of the arrow L1) (step S3 in FIG. 3).

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen on which the entire tumor of the subject P is displayed. On the screen 61a of the display unit 6 in FIG. 5A, the ultrasonic probe 1 is moved in the L1 direction in step S3, so that the three-dimensional image 61-1a of the subject P and the image 61-1a are displayed. In conjunction with the display direction, an indicator 62a indicating the ultrasonic scanning range 1-5a of the ultrasonic probe 1 of FIG. 5B is displayed.

  The image 61-1a on the screen 61a is obtained by moving the ultrasonic probe 1 to a position where the tumor D existing in the body of the subject P is included in the scanning range 1-5. -1-3a is displayed.

  Next, in order to align the image 61-1a displayed on the screen 61a with the direction of the imaging region of the subject P, the operator performs an operation of changing the viewpoint of the image 61-1a from the operation unit 7 (FIG. 3). Step S4).

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen on which an image of the subject P after the viewpoint change is displayed. The screen 61b of the display unit 6 in FIG. 6A is linked to the three-dimensional image 61-1b of the subject P and the display direction of the image 61-1b by the viewpoint changing operation in step S4. The indicator part 62b which shows the ultrasonic scanning range 1-5a of the ultrasonic probe 1 of (b) is displayed.

  The indicator unit 62b is changed in the same direction as the image 61-1b by the indicator generation unit 5 based on the viewpoint changing operation of the three-dimensional image from the operation unit 7.

  FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the indicator unit. The indicator unit 62c is different from the indicator unit 62 in that the indicator unit 62 is a marker provided on the ultrasonic probe as shown in FIG. In contrast to using the design, the design of the ultrasonic probe was used.

  The indicator unit 62c is a three-dimensional indicator 62-1c having the shape of the ultrasonic probe 1 and a wire frame 62-2c indicating the entire shape of the volume data of the indicator 62-1c projected on two-dimensional coordinates. It is displayed on the display unit 6 together with the three-dimensional image data via the synthesis unit 43.

  The indicator 62-1c is designed to approximate the ultrasonic probe 1. Therefore, the indicator A surface 62-1-1c and the indicator B surface 62-1-2c of the indicator 62-1c are also drawn to approximate the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  When the surface of the marker A1-1 or the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is formed three-dimensionally, the indicator A surface 62-1-1c and the indicator B surface 62-1- Similarly to the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2, 2c has a three-dimensional design, and the direction of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be seen from the indicator 62-1.

  FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the indicator part. The indicator part 62d is different from the indicator part 62 in that the indicator part 62 is a marker provided on the ultrasonic probe as shown in FIG. In contrast to using the design, the design of the ultrasonic probe and its marker is used.

  The indicator section 62d includes two three-dimensional indicators 62-1d having the shape of the ultrasonic probe 1, the marker A1-1, and the marker B1-2, and two wire frames 62-2d indicating the entire volume data of the indicator 62-1d. It is projected at the time of dimensional coordinates and is displayed on the display unit 6 together with the three-dimensional image data via the data synthesis unit 43.

  The indicator 62-1d includes an indicator e62-1e and an indicator f62-1f, and is a combination of the indicator 62-1 in FIG. 4A and the indicator 62-1c in FIG.

  Accordingly, the indicator e62-1e approximates the design of the ultrasonic probe 1. Further, the indicator A surface 62-1e-1d and the indicator B surface 62-1e-2d of the indicator e62-1e are approximate to the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1. Furthermore, the indicator A surface 62-1f-1d and the indicator B surface 62-1f-2d of the indicator f62-1f are also drawn to approximate the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1.

  When the surface of the marker A1-1 or the marker B1-2 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is three-dimensionally formed, the indicator A surface 62-1e-1d and the indicator B surface 62-1e- of the indicator 62-1d are used. 2d has a three-dimensional design similar to the marker A1-1 and the marker B1-2, and the direction of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be seen from the indicator 62-1.

  According to the first embodiment of the present invention described above, the marker corresponding to the scanning range of the ultrasonic probe is provided, and the three-dimensional image is interlocked with the display direction of the image on the screen, and the scanning range of the ultrasonic probe is set. By displaying the corresponding indicator, and further designing the indicator to approximate the marker of the ultrasonic probe, the direction of the ultrasonic probe relative to the three-dimensional image can be easily understood, and quick diagnosis can be performed. it can.

  In addition, by designing the indicator to be an ultrasonic probe or a combination of the ultrasonic probe and its scanning range, the direction of the ultrasonic probe relative to the three-dimensional image displayed together with the indicator can be more easily understood.

  A second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention is different from the first embodiment in that an ultrasonic probe capable of two-dimensional ultrasonic scanning is moved in contact with the subject, and the ultrasonic tertiary It is a point that a three-dimensional image can be obtained by an ultrasonic probe moving method extended to original scanning.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. This ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10a includes an ultrasonic probe unit 1a that transmits and receives a subject P by two-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves, a position signal processing unit 9 that detects the position of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a, Transmission / reception unit 2a that transmits an ultrasonic drive signal and reception of a reflected signal to the sonic probe unit 1a, and processes reception signals obtained by the transmission / reception unit 2a to generate data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data And a data generation unit 3a.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10a includes an image data generation unit 4a that generates image data such as two-dimensional or three-dimensional B-mode image data and color Doppler image data from data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data; In conjunction with the display direction of the three-dimensional image data, an indicator generation unit 5a that generates an indicator unit corresponding to the ultrasonic scanning range in the ultrasonic probe unit 1a, and image data and indicator generation generated by the image data generation unit 4a The display unit 6a for displaying the indicator unit generated in the unit 5a, the operation unit 7a for selecting the image data generation mode and inputting various command signals, the transmission / reception unit 2a, the data generation unit 3a, and the image data generation unit described above 4a, indicator generation unit 5a, position signal processing unit 9, etc. And a stem control unit 8a.

  The ultrasonic probe unit 1a includes an ultrasonic probe 1-1 and a position detection sensor 1-2. The ultrasonic probe 1-1 is for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves by bringing its tip surface into contact with the body surface of the subject P. For example, a plurality of (N) piezoelectric vibrators arranged in a one-dimensional manner are used. It has at its tip. This piezoelectric vibrator is an electroacoustic transducer, which converts an electric pulse (ultrasonic drive signal) into an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave) at the time of transmission, and an ultrasonic reflected wave (from the subject P at reception) ( It has a function of converting received ultrasonic waves into electrical signals (ultrasound received signals).

  The position sensor 1-2 of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a is, for example, a magnetic sensor, is attached to the ultrasonic probe 1-1, and is used to detect the position of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a. The signal from the position sensor 1-2 is output to the position signal processing unit 9.

  The position signal processing unit 9 performs a three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging operation from the operation unit 7a, so that the position signal processing unit 9 starts from the position sensor 1-2 of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a based on setting conditions such as a predetermined time and a predetermined number of frames. Are processed and output to the image data generator 4a.

  The transmission / reception unit 2a includes a transmission unit 21 that generates an ultrasonic drive signal for generating transmission ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic probe unit 1a, and a plurality of channels (N channels) obtained from the piezoelectric vibrator of the ultrasonic probe 1. A receiving unit 22a that performs phasing addition on the sound wave reception signal is provided.

  The transmission unit 21a generates a rate pulse that determines the repetition period (Tr) of the ultrasonic pulse radiated to the subject, and a two-dimensional or delay time for focusing to focus the ultrasonic wave to a predetermined depth during transmission. After applying the deflection delay time for transmitting ultrasonic waves to the scanning surface to the rate pulse, N piezoelectric vibrators built in the ultrasonic probe unit 1a are driven and transmitted to the subject P. An ultrasonic driving pulse for emitting ultrasonic waves is generated.

  The reception unit 22a amplifies a minute ultrasonic reception signal from the ultrasonic probe 1 to ensure a sufficient S / N, and focuses reception ultrasonic waves from a predetermined depth on the ultrasonic reception signal. After giving a focusing delay time for obtaining a narrow reception beam width and a deflection delay time for setting the reception directivity of ultrasonic waves on a two-dimensional scanning plane, N-channel ultrasonic waves from the piezoelectric vibrator The received signals are phased and summed into one.

  The data generation unit 3a includes a B-mode data generation unit 31a that performs signal processing for generating B-mode data for the ultrasonic reception signal phased and added by the reception unit 22a, and a color Doppler for the reception signal. A color Doppler data generation unit 32a that performs signal processing for generating data, and data such as B-mode data and color Doppler data generated by the data generation unit 3a is output to the image data generation unit 4a.

  In the B-mode data generation unit 31a, envelope detection is performed on the phase-added ultrasonic reception signal from the reception unit 22a, and then logarithmic conversion is performed. The logarithmically converted signal is converted into a digital signal to generate B-mode data.

  In the color Doppler data generation unit 32a, after the Doppler shift frequency is detected and converted into a digital signal from the phase-added ultrasonic reception signal from the reception unit 22a, only blood flow information is extracted, and the extraction is performed. An autocorrelation process is performed on the Doppler signal. Then, based on the autocorrelation processing result, an average blood flow velocity value, a variance value, and the like are calculated, and color Doppler data is generated.

  The image data generation unit 4a includes an image data storage unit 41a that stores data such as B-mode data and Doppler mode data output from the data generation unit 3a, and three-dimensional data from the image data supplied from the image data storage unit 41a. An arithmetic processing unit 42a that generates image data, and a data synthesis unit 43a that performs synthesis processing of information such as image data, setting parameters, and an indicator unit, and the two-dimensional or three-dimensional data generated by the image data generation unit 4a. Image data such as B-mode image data and color Doppler image data is output to the display unit 6a.

  The image data storage unit 41a adds the position data from the position detection unit 9 that coincides with the ultrasonic scanning timing in the data from the data generation unit 3a, and sequentially stores it for each ultrasonic scanning plane (frame).

  The arithmetic processing unit 42a arranges image data of a plurality of frames stored in the image data storage unit 41a in a three-dimensional space based on the position data of each frame, and a tertiary having a depth in a direction perpendicular to the tomographic plane. After the original image data is constructed, the 3D image data is projected onto 2D coordinates.

  The data synthesizing unit 43a synthesizes information such as setting parameters with the two-dimensional image data from the image data storage unit 41a and the three-dimensional image data from the arithmetic processing unit 42a, and then outputs them to the display unit 6a. In addition, the data synthesis unit 43a performs synthesis processing on the three-dimensional image data generated by the arithmetic processing unit 42a and the indicator unit generated by the indicator generation unit 5a, and then outputs them to the display unit 6a.

  The indicator generating unit 5a generates an indicator unit indicating the ultrasonic scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a in conjunction with the display direction of the three-dimensional image data generated by the arithmetic processing unit 42a.

  Although not shown, the display unit 6a includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel. The display unit 6a includes two-dimensional or three-dimensional B-mode image data generated by the image data generation unit 4a, image data such as color Doppler image data, and an indicator. The indicator unit 62a generated in the generation unit 5a is displayed on the monitor.

  Although not shown, the operation unit 7a includes an input device such as a switch, a keyboard, a trackball, and a mouse and a touch command screen on the operation panel, and inputs various command signals, selects an image data generation mode, and the like. This is done using a screen.

  The system control unit 8a includes a CPU and a storage circuit (not shown), and various input information and selection information supplied from the operation unit 7 are stored in the storage circuit. Then, the CPU controls each unit such as the position signal processing unit 9, the transmission / reception unit 2a, the data generation unit 3a, the image data generation unit 4a, the indicator generation unit 5a, the display unit 6a and the entire system based on such information. Take control.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of a display unit on which a three-dimensional image of the subject P and an indicator unit are displayed by a horizontal movement operation of the ultrasonic probe unit. On the screen 63 of the display unit 6a in FIG. 10A, a three-dimensional image 63-1 of the subject P and an indicator unit 64 corresponding to the direction of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a in conjunction with the display direction of this image. Is displayed.

  For the image 63-1, after setting various three-dimensional image conditions from the operation unit 7a, subject information such as the patient ID and name of the subject P is input, and an operation for starting the examination is performed. FIG. As shown, the ultrasonic probe unit 1a is obtained by moving it in the direction of the arrow L2 in a state where it is in contact with a desired imaging region of the subject P.

  On the other hand, in the ultrasonic probe unit 1a, a triangular scanning plane 1-5-1a formed by ultrasonic two-dimensional scanning based on an image condition set in advance from the operation unit 7a is in the L2 direction of the ultrasonic probe 1a. As a result of the scanning, the scanning plane 1-5-2a after the movement is scanned, thereby forming a three-dimensional scanning range 1-5a and a scanning plane 1-5-2a.

  Further, after the signal detected by the position sensor 1-2 of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a by the moving operation of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a is processed into position data by the position signal processing unit 9, the scanning surface corresponding to the signal is processed. Are stored in the image data storage unit 41a together with the data for one frame generated from the data generation unit 3a based on the received ultrasonic waves.

  The scanning range 1-5a, the scanned scanning surface 1-5-2a, and the scanning surface 1-5-3a are an image 63-1, an image A surface 63-1-1, and an image B surface 63-1-2. It corresponds to. In FIG. 10, the scanning range 1-5a indicates the same direction as the image 63-1.

  The indicator unit 64 is, for example, an indicator 64-1 in the shape of a three-dimensional quadrangular pyramid and a wire frame 64-2 indicating the entire shape of the volume data of the indicator 64-1, projected onto two-dimensional coordinates. It corresponds to the scanning range 1-5a of the probe unit 1a and shows the same direction as the image 63-1.

  In the indicator 64-1, two of the four side surfaces of the square weight form an indicator A surface 62-1-1 and an indicator B surface 62-1-2. The indicator A surface 64-1-1 and the indicator B surface 64-1-2 are moved scanning surfaces 1-5 provided on the surface of the probe case 1-4a near the acoustic window 1-3a in the ultrasonic probe unit 1a. 2a corresponds to a triangular marker A1-1a representing -2a and an arrow marker B1-2a indicating the scanning direction of the scanning surface 1-5-1a.

  The indicator A surface 64-1-1 and the indicator B surface 64-1-2 are designed to approximate the marker A1-1a and marker B1-2a of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a.

  Therefore, when the marker A1-1a and the marker B1-2a of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a are identified and displayed by, for example, a red triangle and a yellow arrow, the indicator A surface 62-1-1 of the indicator 62-1 and The indicator B surface 62-1-2 is designed with a red triangle and a yellow arrow, and the moving direction of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a with respect to the image 63-1 and the direction of the scanning surface 1-5-1a are known from the indicator 64-1. It is like that.

  The marker A1- is also provided on the surface of the probe case 1-4a of the ultrasonic probe 1a corresponding to the side surface of the quadrangular pyramid other than the indicator A surface 64-1-1 and the indicator B surface 64-1-2. 1a and a marker having a different design from the marker B1-2a, and the different markers corresponding to the side surfaces of the indicator 64-1 other than the indicator A surface 64-1-1 and the indicator B surface 64-1-2. You may make it use the design approximated to.

  Further, the bottom surface of the square pyramid of the indicator 62-1 may be designed to simulate a piezoelectric vibrator arranged in one dimension, for example, the ultrasonic probe 1 a different from the side surface.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of the display unit on which a three-dimensional image of the subject P and an indicator unit are displayed by the turning movement operation of the ultrasonic probe unit. The screen 63b of the display unit 6a in FIG. 11A is linked to the three-dimensional image 63-1b of the subject P and the display direction of the image 63-1b, and an indicator corresponding to the direction of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a. Part 64b.

  In the image 63-1b, after setting various three-dimensional image conditions from the operation unit 7a, the subject information such as the patient ID and the name of the subject P is input to start the examination, and FIG. As shown, with the ultrasonic probe 1a applied to a desired imaging region of the subject P, the acoustic window 1-3a of the ultrasonic probe unit 1a is used as a fulcrum to the arrow R1 in the same direction as the arrow of the marker B1-2a. Obtained by scolding.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11B, in the ultrasonic probe section 1a, a triangular scanning plane 1-5 formed by two-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves based on image conditions set in advance from the operation section 7a. As the ultrasonic probe 1a is turned in the R1 direction, the scanning range 1-5b and the scanning surface 1-5-3b are formed by being turned to the scanning surface 1-5-2b after turning in the direction of the arrow R2. The

  Accordingly, the scanning range 1-5b, the scanning plane 1-5-1b, and the scanning plane 1-5-3b correspond to the image 63-1b, the image A plane 63-1-1b, and the image B plane 63-1-2b. is doing.

  According to the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the ultrasonic probe unit is provided with a marker indicating the ultrasonic scanning plane and a marker indicating the moving direction of the ultrasonic probe unit, and the image is displayed on the screen together with the three-dimensional image. The indicator corresponding to the ultrasonic scanning range of the ultrasonic probe unit is displayed in conjunction with the display direction of the ultrasonic probe, and the indicator is designed to approximate the marker of the ultrasonic probe unit. The direction and moving direction of the probe part can be easily understood, and a diagnosis can be performed quickly.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example 2, For example, you may make the design which approximated the indicator to the ultrasonic probe part. The indicator may be designed by combining the ultrasonic probe unit and its scanning range.

  In addition, the distance for moving the ultrasonic probe without using the position sensor or the angle for turning the ultrasonic probe is set, and the ultrasonic probe is operated on the subject to perform the three-dimensional scanning of the ultrasonic wave. The three-dimensional image data may be generated based on the reception signal obtained from the transmission / reception unit and the set distance or angle.

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The figure which shows the relationship between the indicator part which concerns on Example 1 of this invention, and an ultrasonic probe. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for performing an inspection using a three-dimensional image according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the screen of the display part on which the three-dimensional image and the indicator part of the subject which concern on Example 1 of this invention were displayed. The figure which shows an example of the screen of the display part on which the whole image of the tumor of the subject which concerns on Example 1 of this invention was displayed. The figure which shows an example of the screen of the display part on which the three-dimensional image of the subject after the viewpoint change which concerns on Example 1 of this invention was displayed. The figure which shows the modification of the indicator part which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. The figure which shows the modification of the indicator part which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. The block diagram which shows the structure of the ultrasonic diagnosing device which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the screen of the display part on which the three-dimensional image of the subject by the horizontal movement of the ultrasonic probe part which concerns on Example 2 of this invention, and the indicator part were displayed. The figure which shows an example of the screen of the display part on which the three-dimensional image of the subject and the indicator part by the turning movement of the ultrasonic probe part which concern on Example 2 of this invention were displayed.

Explanation of symbols

P Subject 1 Ultrasonic probe 1-1 Marker A
1-2 Marker B
1-5 Scanning range 2 Transmission / reception unit 3 Data generation unit 4 Image data generation unit 5 Indicator generation unit 6 Display unit 7 Operation unit 8 System control unit 10 Ultrasound diagnostic device 41 Image data storage unit 42 Operation processing unit 43 Data synthesis unit 62 Indicator section 62-1 Indicator 62-1-1 Indicator A surface 62-1-2 Indicator B surface

Claims (9)

An ultrasonic probe that scans and transmits ultrasonic waves in three dimensions with respect to the subject; and
A plurality of markers provided on at least two surfaces of the ultrasonic probe and configured to include different colors for each surface;
Transmission / reception means for transmitting a drive signal for driving the ultrasonic probe and receiving an ultrasonic reception signal based on reception of an ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic probe;
Image data generating means for generating three-dimensional image data based on a received signal from the transmitting / receiving means;
An indicator having a substantially quadrangular pyramid shape indicating a three-dimensional scanning range in the transmission / reception means and having at least one side colored according to the color of the plurality of markers in association with the direction of the image data. An indicator generating means;
The image together with the image data generated by the data generating means, before Symbol ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by having a a <br/> display means for displaying the indicator generated in accordance with image data. An ultrasonic probe that performs two-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves on the subject to transmit and receive; and
A plurality of markers provided on at least two surfaces of the ultrasonic probe and configured to include different colors for each surface;
Position detecting means for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe;
Transmission / reception means for transmitting a drive signal for driving the ultrasonic probe and receiving an ultrasonic reception signal based on reception of an ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic probe;
The ultrasonic probe is moved in a predetermined direction with respect to the subject and a three-dimensional scanning of the ultrasonic wave is performed, and a reception signal obtained from the transmission / reception means, and the movement of the ultrasonic probe by the position detection means Image generating means for generating three-dimensional image data based on position data obtained from:
An indicator having a shape indicating a scanning range in at least one direction in the image generation means, and generating an indicator colored on at least one of the side surfaces according to the color of the plurality of markers in conjunction with the direction of the image data Generating means;
The image together with the image data generated by the data generating means, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a display means for displaying an indicator that is generated in accordance with the prior SL image data <br/>. An ultrasonic probe that performs two-dimensional scanning of ultrasonic waves on the subject to transmit and receive; and
A plurality of markers provided on at least two surfaces of the ultrasonic probe and configured to include different colors for each surface;
An ultrasonic probe operation setting means for setting a distance for moving the ultrasonic probe, or an angle at which the ultrasonic probe is swept;
Transmission / reception means for transmitting a drive signal for driving the ultrasonic probe and receiving an ultrasonic reception signal based on reception of an ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic probe;
A reception signal obtained from the transmission / reception unit by performing the three-dimensional scanning of the ultrasonic wave by causing the ultrasonic probe to perform an operation set by the ultrasonic probe operation setting unit on the subject, and the ultrasonic wave Image generating means for generating three-dimensional image data based on the distance or angle set by the probe operation setting means;
Indicator generation having a shape indicating a three-dimensional scanning range in the image generation means, and generating an indicator colored on at least one side according to the color of the plurality of markers in conjunction with the direction of the image data Means,
The image together with the image data generated by the data generating means, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a display means for displaying an indicator that is generated in accordance with the prior SL image data <br/>. The indicator generating means generates a substantially quadrangular pyramid shape as the indicator,
The plurality of markers are substantially triangular shapes corresponding to at least one side surface of the indicator.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The ultrasonic probe is configured by arranging piezoelectric vibrators that transmit and receive ultrasonic waves in a matrix,
The indicator generating means generates a substantially quadrangular pyramid shaped indicator having a figure showing the piezoelectric vibrators arranged in a matrix on the bottom surface,
The plurality of markers are substantially triangular shapes corresponding to at least one side surface of the indicator.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. At least one of the plurality of markers is a substantially triangular shape indicating a scanning range in the image generating means.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The indicator display means displays the indicator with a smaller size than the image data.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The indicator generating unit generates, as indicators , a first graphic indicating a three-dimensional scanning range in the image generating unit and a second graphic indicating the ultrasonic probe arranged in the first graphic. the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the plurality of markers is an arrow indicating the predetermined direction.

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