Breast density quantification method and ultrasonic imaging system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a breast density quantification method and an ultrasonic imaging system. The method comprises the following steps: performing ultrasonic scanning on a breast to obtain an ultrasonic image about the breast; determining the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast according to the ultrasonic image; and determining the density of the breast according to the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast. According to the embodiment of the invention, the breast density is quantified by acquiring the three-dimensional volume data of the breast and detecting the glandular milk tissue and the chest wall tissue from the three-dimensional volume data; optionally, the distribution of the breast density can be visually displayed, and more information is provided for clinical application, such as lesion detection navigation and the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of medical imaging, and in particular to a breast density quantification method and an ultrasound imaging system. Background Art

[0002] Ultrasound imaging is an important method for imaging the interior of a patient's body. Typically, ultrasound imaging systems use an ultrasonic transducer to convert electrical energy into ultrasonic pulses. These pulses are transmitted into the patient's body, generating echo signals. These echo signals are received by the transducer elements and converted into electrical signals. These signals are then processed by specialized equipment to form the desired ultrasound image.

[0003] Ultrasound imaging systems have important applications in scanning many body organs. For example, full-field breast ultrasound scanners can be used to image breast tissue in one or more planes.

[0004] It should be noted that the above introduction to the technical background is merely intended to provide a clear and complete description of the technical solutions of this application and facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. Simply because these solutions are described in the background technology section of this application, it should not be assumed that the above technical solutions are well known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The inventors discovered that breast density is a key factor in predicting cancer. Currently, breast density quantification is mostly achieved through mammographic X-rays. However, this method relies on operator skill and the physician's clinical experience. Complete scanning can be challenging for larger, thicker, and more mobile breasts. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to X-rays poses risks to both the patient and the physician.

[0006] To address at least one of the aforementioned problems or other similar problems, embodiments of the present application provide a method and ultrasound imaging system for quantifying breast density. These methods acquire three-dimensional volumetric data of the breast and then detect breast tissue and chest wall tissue from the three-dimensional volumetric data, thereby quantifying breast density. Optionally, the distribution of breast density can also be visualized, providing more information for clinical applications, such as lesion detection navigation.

[0007] According to one aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a method for quantifying breast density is provided, the method comprising:

[0008] performing an ultrasound scan on the breast to obtain an ultrasound image of the breast;

[0009] determining the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast based on the ultrasound image;

[0010] The density of the breast is determined based on the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast.

[0011] In some embodiments, performing an ultrasound scan on a breast to obtain an ultrasound image of the breast includes:

[0012] performing ultrasound scanning on a breast having at least one sound-proof marker attached to an outer edge thereof using a scanning component to obtain the ultrasound image;

[0013] The scanning assembly includes a frame, wherein a scanning probe and a driving device are housed in the frame, and the driving device drives the scanning probe to move in the frame to perform the ultrasonic scanning.

[0014] In some embodiments, there are multiple marks, and the multiple marks are applied to the outer edge of the breast.

[0015] In some embodiments, the ultrasound image includes a plurality of two-dimensional images.

[0016] In some embodiments, determining the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast based on the ultrasound image comprises:

[0017] Segmenting each of the multiple two-dimensional images to obtain the mammary gland and chest wall of the breast;

[0018] reconstructing each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a local coronal view of the breast;

[0019] A volume of the mammary gland is determined based on the mammary gland, and a volume of the breast is determined based on the chest wall and the local coronal view.

[0020] In some embodiments, determining the volume of the breast based on the breast comprises:

[0021] Segmenting a breast from each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a segmentation mask of the breast;

[0022] registering the plurality of segmentation masks of the breast on the plurality of two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the breast;

[0023] The volume of the mammary gland is obtained according to the mask of the mammary gland.

[0024] In some embodiments, determining the volume of the breast based on the chest wall and the local coronal view comprises:

[0025] detecting nipples and landmarks separately on each of the multiple partial coronal views;

[0026] registering the multiple local coronal views according to the positions of the nipple and the marker on each local coronal view to obtain an overall coronal view of the breast;

[0027] determining breast boundaries based on the locations of the markers;

[0028] The volume of the breast is obtained according to the breast boundary and the distance from the skin to the chest wall within the breast boundary.

[0029] In some embodiments, determining the volume of the breast based on the chest wall and the plurality of local coronal views further comprises:

[0030] The location of the chest wall is determined.

[0031] In some embodiments, determining the position of the chest wall comprises:

[0032] Segmenting a chest wall from each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a segmentation mask of the chest wall;

[0033] registering a plurality of chest wall segmentation masks on the plurality of two-dimensional images according to a registration parameter used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the chest wall;

[0034] The position of the chest wall is obtained according to the mask of the chest wall.

[0035] In some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0036] Calculating a breast density map within the region of the breast based on the thickness of the mammary gland and the distance from the skin to the chest wall;

[0037] The breast density map is visually displayed.

[0038] In some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0039] The breast density map is superimposed on a coronal view of the breast.

[0040] In some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0041] The thickness of the breast and the position of the chest wall are determined based on the ultrasound image.

[0042] In some embodiments, determining the thickness of the breast according to the ultrasound image comprises:

[0043] Segmenting the mammary gland from each two-dimensional image to obtain a segmentation mask of the mammary gland;

[0044] registering the plurality of segmentation masks of the breast in the plurality of two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the breast;

[0045] The thickness of the mammary gland is calculated based on the mask of the mammary gland.

[0046] In some embodiments, determining the position of the chest wall according to the ultrasound image includes:

[0047] Segmenting the chest wall from each two-dimensional image to obtain a segmentation mask of the chest wall;

[0048] registering the plurality of segmentation masks of the plurality of two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the chest wall;

[0049] The position of the chest wall is obtained according to the mask of the chest wall.

[0050] According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present application, there is provided an ultrasound imaging system, the system comprising:

[0051] a scanning component that moves on the surface of the breast to acquire ultrasound echo signals; and

[0052] A processor configured to execute the method described in any of the preceding embodiments.

[0053] According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores a computer program, wherein the computer program has at least one code segment, and the at least one code segment can be executed by a machine so that the machine performs the steps of the method described in any of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0054] One of the beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present application is that, according to the method of the embodiments of the present application, breast density is quantified by acquiring three-dimensional volume data of the breast and detecting glandular breast tissue and chest wall tissue from the three-dimensional volume data. Optionally, the distribution of breast density can also be visualized, providing more information for clinical applications, such as lesion detection navigation.

[0055] The embodiments of the present application are disclosed in detail with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present application are not limited in scope. The embodiments of the present application include many changes, modifications and equivalents within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0056] Features described and / or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments.

[0057] It should be emphasized that the terms “include / comprising / having” when used herein refer to the presence of a feature, an integer, or a component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, or components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the embodiments of the present application will become more apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0059] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ultrasound imaging system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0060] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0061] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a scanning assembly of an ultrasound imaging system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0062] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a method for quantifying breast density according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0063] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an example of a breast with a label M applied thereto;

[0064] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of determining the volume of the mammary gland and breast based on ultrasound images;

[0065] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of segmenting the breast and chest wall from a two-dimensional image;

[0066] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a partial coronal view of the breast;

[0067] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of breast volume determination based on a partial coronal view of the chest wall and breast;

[0068] Figure 10 It is a schematic diagram of the overall coronal view of the breast;

[0069] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram to determine the position of the chest wall;

[0070] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram for determining the volume of the mammary gland based on the mammary gland;

[0071] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of breast density map calculation;

[0072] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of an example of a breast density map;

[0073] Figure 15 It will Figure 14 Shown is a schematic diagram of an example of a breast density map superimposed on a coronal view of the breast. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] The above and other features of the present application will become apparent through the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description and the accompanying drawings, specific embodiments of the present application are disclosed in detail, which illustrate some embodiments in which the principles of the present application can be adopted. It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the described embodiments, but includes all modifications and equivalents within the scope of the appended claims.

[0075] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "first", "second", "upper", "lower", etc. are used to distinguish different elements from the name, but do not indicate the spatial arrangement or time order of these elements, etc. These elements should not be limited by these terms. The term "and / or" includes any one and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed terms. The terms "comprising", "including", "having", etc. refer to the presence of the stated features, elements, components or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components or components.

[0076] In the embodiments of this application, the singular forms "a," "the," etc. include plural forms and should be broadly understood to mean "a" or "a type" rather than being limited to "one." Furthermore, the term "said" should be understood to include both singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the term "according to" should be understood to mean "at least in part based on...", and the term "based on" should be understood to mean "at least in part based on...", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0077] Features described and / or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments.

[0078] Figure 1 1 shows a perspective view of an ultrasound imaging system 102 according to some embodiments. Figure 1As shown, the ultrasound imaging system 102 may include a main unit, a display 110, an adjustable arm 106, and a scanning assembly 108. The main unit may include a main frame 104, an ultrasound processor housing 105, and an ultrasound processor within the housing 105. The specific structure of each component will be explained in detail below.

[0079] A body frame 104, an ultrasound processor housing 105 containing an ultrasound processor, a movable and adjustable support arm (e.g., an adjustable arm) 106 including a hinge joint 114, a scanning assembly 108 connected to a first end 120 of the adjustable arm 106 via a ball and socket connector (e.g., a spherical joint) 112, and a display 110 connected to the body frame 104. The display 110 is connected to the body frame 104 at an interface where the adjustable arm 106 enters the body frame 104. By being directly connected to the body frame 104 rather than the adjustable arm 106, the display 110 does not affect the weight of the adjustable arm 106 and the balance mechanism of the adjustable arm 106. In one example, the display 110 is rotatable in horizontal and lateral directions (e.g., rotatable about a central axis of the body frame 104), but is not movable vertically. In an alternative example, the display 110 may also be movable vertically. Although Figure 1 The display 110 is depicted connected to the body frame 104 , but in other examples, the display 110 may be connected to a different component of the imaging system 102 , such as to the ultrasound processor housing 105 , or located remotely from the imaging system 102 .

[0080] In one embodiment, the adjustable arm 106 is configured and adapted so that the compression / scanning assembly 108 (i) is neutrally buoyant in space, or (ii) has a light net downward weight (e.g., 1-2 kg) for breast compression while allowing easy user operation. In an alternative embodiment, the adjustable arm 106 is configured so that the scanning assembly 108 is neutrally buoyant in space during positioning of the scanner on the patient tissue. Then, after positioning the scanning assembly 108, the internal components of the imaging system 102 can be adjusted to apply the desired downward weight for breast compression and increased image quality. In one example, the downward weight (e.g., force) can be in the range of 2-11 kg.

[0081] As described above, the adjustable arm 106 includes a hinge joint 114. The hinge joint 114 divides the adjustable arm 106 into a first arm portion and a second arm portion. The first arm portion is connected to the scanning assembly 108 and the second arm portion is connected to the body frame 104. The hinge joint 114 allows the second arm portion to rotate relative to the second arm portion and the body frame 104. For example, the hinge joint 114 allows the scanning assembly 108 to translate laterally and horizontally but not vertically relative to the second arm portion and the body frame 104. In this way, the scanning assembly 108 can be rotated toward or away from the body frame 104. However, the hinge joint 114 is configured to allow the entire adjustable arm 106 (e.g., the first arm portion and the second arm portion) to move vertically together as one piece (e.g., translate up and down together with the body frame 104).

[0082] The scanning assembly 108 may include a membrane assembly 118 of an at least partially conformable membrane in a substantially taut state for compressing the breast, the membrane assembly 118 having a bottom surface that contacts the breast while the transducer sweeps across its top surface to scan the breast. In one example, the membrane is a taut piece of fabric.

[0083] The membrane assembly 118 may further include an outer frame and a membrane. The membrane is fixedly mounted within the outer frame, which is removably connected to the scanning assembly. During ultrasound imaging by the ultrasound imaging system, one side of the membrane can at least partially contact the ultrasound transducer, while the other side of the membrane can at least partially contact the tissue to be scanned. This arrangement ensures that the ultrasound transducer transmits and receives signals with minimal attenuation and secures the breast to be scanned for easier scanning.

[0084] Optionally, the adjustable arm may include a potentiometer (not shown) to allow for position and orientation sensing of the compression / scanning assembly 108, or other types of position and orientation sensing may be used (e.g., gyroscope, magnetic, optical, radio frequency (RF)). A fully functional ultrasound engine may be provided within the ultrasound processor housing 105 for driving the ultrasound transducer and generating volumetric breast ultrasound data from the scan in conjunction with associated position and orientation information. In some examples, the volumetric scan data may be transmitted to another computer system for further processing using any of a variety of data transmission methods known in the art, or the volumetric scan data may be processed by the ultrasound engine. A general-purpose computer / processor integrated with the ultrasound engine may also be provided for general user interface and system control. The general-purpose computer may be a self-contained, stand-alone unit, or may be remotely controlled, configured, and / or monitored by a remote station connected across a network.

[0085] Figure 2 2 is a block diagram 200 schematically illustrating various system components of the ultrasound imaging system 102. Figure 2As shown, the ultrasound imaging system 102 includes a scanning assembly 108, a display 110, and a scan processor 210. In one example, the scan processor 210 can be included in the ultrasound processor housing 105 of the imaging system 102. Figure 2 As shown, the scanning component 108, display 110, and scan processor 210 are separate components that communicate with each other; however, in some embodiments, one or more of these components may be integrated (eg, the display and scan processor may be included in a single component).

[0086] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG, the scanning assembly 108 includes at least an ultrasonic transducer 220 and a driving device 240. The ultrasonic transducer 220 includes a transducer array of transducer elements, such as piezoelectric elements, which convert electrical energy into ultrasonic waves and then detect reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0087] Scan component 108 can communicate with scan processor 210 to send raw scan data to the image processor. Scan component 108 can optionally communicate with display 110 to notify the user to reposition the scan component as described above, or to receive information from the user (via user input 244).

[0088] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 1 , the scan processor 210 includes an image processor 212, a memory 214, a display output 216, and an ultrasound engine 218. The ultrasound engine 218 can drive the activation of the transducer elements of the transducer 220 and, in some embodiments, can activate the drive device 240. In addition, the ultrasound engine 218 can receive raw image data (e.g., ultrasound echoes) from the scanning assembly 108. The raw image data can be sent to the image processor 212 and / or a remote processor (e.g., via a network) and processed to form a displayable image of the tissue sample. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the image processor 212 can be included in the ultrasound engine 218.

[0089] exist Figure 2In an example, information can be transmitted from the ultrasound engine 218 and / or the image processor 212 to a user of the imaging system 102 via a display output 216 of the scan processor 210. In one example, the user of the ultrasound imaging system can include an ultrasound technician, a nurse, or a physician such as a radiologist. For example, a processed image of the scanned tissue can be sent to the display 110 via the display output 216. In another example, information related to the parameters of the scan (such as the progress of the scan) can be sent to the display 110 via the display output 216. The display 110 may include a user interface 242, which is configured to display images or other information to the user. In addition, the user interface 242 can be configured to receive input from the user (such as through a user input unit 244) and send the input to the scan processor 210. In one example, the user input unit 244 can be a touch screen of the display 110. However, other types of user input mechanisms are also possible, such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc.

[0090] The scan processor 210 may further include a memory 214. The memory 214 may include removable and / or permanent devices and may include optical memory, semiconductor memory, and / or magnetic memory, among others. The memory 214 may include volatile, non-volatile, dynamic, static, read / write, read-only, random access, sequential access, and / or additional memory. The memory 214 may store non-transitory instructions that may be executed by a controller or processor (such as the controller 218 or the image processor 212) to perform one or more methods or routines described below. The memory 214 may store raw image data received from the scan assembly 108, processed image data received from the image processor 212 or a remote processor, and / or additional information.

[0091] Figure 3 Schematic diagram 300 shows an isometric view of the scanning assembly 108 connected to the adjustable arm 106. Figure 3 As shown, diagram 300 includes a coordinate system 302 including a vertical axis 304 , a horizontal axis 306 , and a transverse axis 308 .

[0092] Scanning assembly 108 includes housing 310, transducer module 220, and module receiver 230. Housing 310 includes a frame 322 and a handle portion 324, which includes two handles 312. The two handles 312 are opposed to each other across a transverse axis of scanning assembly 108, which is centered about adjustable arm 106 and defined relative to transverse axis 308. Frame 322 is rectangular, and an inner perimeter of frame 322 defines an opening 314. Opening 314 provides space (e.g., a void volume) for translating module receiver 230 and transducer module 220 during a scanning process. In another example, frame 322 can be another shape, such as a square with a square opening 314. In addition, frame 322 has a thickness defined between an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter of frame 322.

[0093] The frame 322 includes four sets of side walls (e.g., a set including inner side walls and outer side walls, the inner side walls defining the opening 314). Specifically, the frame 322 includes a front side wall 326 and a rear side wall 328, the rear side wall 328 being directly connected to the handle portion 324 of the housing 310, and the front side wall 326 being opposite the rear side wall 328 relative to the horizontal axis 306. The frame 322 also includes a right side wall and a left side wall, the respective side walls being opposite each other and both being in a plane defined by the vertical axis 304 and the transverse axis 308.

[0094] The frame 322 of the housing 310 also includes a top side and a bottom side, which are defined relative to the vertical axis 304. The top side faces the adjustable arm 106. The membrane 118 is disposed across the opening 314. More specifically, the membrane 118 is connected to the bottom side of the frame 322. In an example, the membrane 118 is a diaphragm that is held taut across the opening 314. The membrane 118 can be a flexible but non-stretchable material that is thin, waterproof, durable, highly acoustically transparent, chemically resistant, and / or biocompatible. As described above, the bottom surface of the membrane 118 can contact tissue (e.g., a breast) during scanning, and the upper surface of the membrane 118 can at least partially contact the transducer module 220 during scanning. Figure 3 As shown, the membrane 118 is permanently connected to a hard shell clamping portion 119 that surrounds the perimeter of the membrane 118. The clamping portion 119 is connected to the bottom side of the frame 322. In one example, the clamping portion 119 can snap onto a lip on the bottom side of the frame 322 of the housing 310 so that the membrane 118 does not become disconnected during scanning, but is still removably connected to the frame 322. The membrane 118 may not be permanently connected to the hard shell clamping portion 119, and thus the membrane 118 may not be connected to the frame 322 via the hard shell clamping portion 119. Instead, the membrane 118 may be directly and removably connected to the frame 322.

[0095] The handle portion 324 of the housing 310 includes two handles 312 for moving the scanning assembly 108 in space and positioning the scanning assembly 108 on tissue (e.g., on a patient). In alternative embodiments, the housing 310 may not include handles 312. In one example, the handles 312 may be integrally formed with the frame 322 of the housing 310. In another example, the handles 312 and the frame 322 may be formed separately and then mechanically connected together to form the entire housing 310 of the scanning assembly 108.

[0096] like Figure 3 As shown, the scanning assembly 108 is connected to the adjustable arm 106 via a ball joint 112 (e.g., a ball and socket connector). Specifically, the top dome portion of the handle portion 324 is connected to the ball joint 112. The top of the handle portion 324 includes a depression that forms a socket, and the ball of the ball joint 112 fits into the socket. The ball joint 112 can move in multiple directions. For example, the ball joint 112 provides rotational movement of the scanning assembly relative to the adjustable arm 106. The ball joint 112 includes a locking mechanism for locking the ball joint 112 in place, thereby keeping the scanning assembly 108 stationary relative to the adjustable arm 106. In addition, the ball joint 112 can also be configured to only rotate without moving in multiple directions such as swinging.

[0097] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, handle 312 of handle portion 324 includes buttons for controlling scanning and adjusting scanning assembly 108. Specifically, the first handle of handle 312 includes a first weight adjustment button 316 and a second weight adjustment button 318. First weight adjustment button 316 can reduce the load applied to scanning assembly 108 from adjustable arm 106. Second weight adjustment button 318 can increase the load applied to scanning assembly 108 from adjustable arm 106. Increasing the load applied to scanning assembly 108 can increase the pressure and amount of compression applied to the tissue on which scanning assembly 108 is placed. In addition, increasing the load applied to the scanning assembly increases the effective weight of the scanning assembly on the tissue to be scanned. In one example, increasing the load can compress a patient's tissue, such as a breast. In this way, varying amounts of pressure (e.g., load) can be applied consistently to scanning assembly 108 during scanning to obtain high-quality images using transducer module 220.

[0098] Prior to a scanning procedure, a user (e.g., an ultrasound technician or physician) may position the scanning assembly 108 on the patient or tissue. Once the scanning assembly 108 is correctly positioned, the user may adjust the weight of the scanning assembly 108 on the patient (e.g., adjust the amount of compression) by using the first weight adjustment button 316 and / or the second weight adjustment button 318. The user may then initiate a scanning procedure using additional controls on the handle portion 324 of the housing 310. For example, Figure 3 As shown, the second handle of the handle 312 includes two additional buttons 330 (not shown separately). The two additional buttons 330 can include a first button for initiating a scan (e.g., once the scanning assembly has been placed on the tissue / patient and the amount of compression has been selected) and a second button for stopping the scan. In one example, once the first button is selected, the ball joint 112 can be locked, thereby stopping the lateral and horizontal movement of the scanning assembly 108.

[0099] The module receiver 230 is positioned within the housing 310. Specifically, the module receiver 230 is mechanically connected to a first end of the housing 310 at a rear sidewall 328 of the frame 322, the first end being closer to the adjustable arm 106 than the second end of the housing 310. The second end of the housing 310 is located at a front sidewall 326 of the frame 322. In one example, the module receiver 230 is connected to the first end via a protrusion of the module receiver 230 that is connected to a motor that is connected to the motor of the module receiver 230.

[0100] As described above, housing 310 is configured to remain stationary during scanning. In other words, once the weight applied to scanning assembly 108 is adjusted via adjustable arm 106 and ball joint 112 is then locked, housing 310 can remain in a stationary position without translating in the horizontal or lateral directions. However, housing 310 can still translate vertically with the vertical movement of adjustable arm 106.

[0101] In contrast, the module receiver 230 is configured to translate relative to the housing 310 during scanning. Figure 3 As shown, the module receiver 230 translates horizontally relative to the housing 310 along the horizontal axis 306. The motor of the module receiver 230 can slide the module receiver 230 along the upper surface of the first end of the housing 310.

[0102] The transducer module 220 is removably connected to the module receiver 230. Thus, during scanning, the transducer module 220 and the module receiver 230 translate horizontally. During scanning, the transducer module 220 is swept horizontally across the breast under the control of the motor of the module receiver 230 while the contact surface of the transducer module 220 contacts the membrane 118. The transducer module 220 and the module receiver 230 are connected together at the module interface 320. The module receiver 230 has a width 332 that is the same as the width of the transducer module 220. In alternative embodiments, the width 332 of the module receiver can be different from the width of the transducer module 220. In some embodiments, the module interface 320 includes a connector between the transducer module 220 and the module receiver 230, which includes both mechanical and electrical connections.

[0103] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the example, the ultrasound imaging system 102 can use automated breast full volume ultrasound imaging (ABUS) technology for ultrasound scanning, and the ultrasound imaging system 102 can also be referred to as an ABUS system. ABUS is a new type of high-resolution three-dimensional breast ultrasound imaging technology that can obtain full breast anatomical structure imaging (including cross-section, sagittal and coronal planes) and can observe the internal structure of the breast from three-dimensional angles and multiple levels. For ease of explanation, the ABUS system is used as an example below, but the present application is not limited thereto, and other types of ultrasound imaging systems that meet any of the following embodiments are also permitted.

[0104] The present invention provides a method for quantifying breast density. Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a method for quantifying breast density according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 As shown, the method includes:

[0105] 410: Performing an ultrasound scan on the breast to obtain an ultrasound image of the breast;

[0106] 420: Determine the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast according to the ultrasound image;

[0107] 430: Determine the density of the breast according to the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast.

[0108] It is worth noting that the above Figure 4 The breast density quantification method of the embodiment of the present application is only schematically described, but the present application is not limited thereto. For example, the execution order of each operation can be appropriately adjusted, and other operations can be added or some operations can be reduced. Those skilled in the art can make appropriate modifications based on the above content, and are not limited to the above appended claims. Figure 4 Records of.

[0109] According to the above embodiment, breast density is quantified by acquiring three-dimensional volumetric data of the breast and detecting glandular breast tissue and chest wall tissue from this three-dimensional volumetric data. This provides quantitative and accurate breast density data without posing potential radiation risks. In particular, compared to qualitative breast density assessment methods, the above embodiment of the present application accurately quantifies breast density by separately and quantitatively determining breast volume and mammary gland volume. This volume acquisition process is accomplished through ultrasound imaging, further ensuring the safety of the assessment.

[0110] In operation 410 , a scanning assembly may be used to perform ultrasound scanning on a breast having at least one acoustically opaque marker attached to its outer edge to obtain the aforementioned ultrasound image.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the scanning component is, for example, the aforementioned Figures 1 to 3 The scanning assembly 108 shown includes a frame 322 accommodating a scanning probe (a transducer module 220 and a module receiver 230 ) and a driving device 240 . The driving device 240 drives the scanning probe to move within the frame 322 to perform the ultrasonic scanning.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the marker is made of an opaque material, such as a sticker or plastic, and thus may cast a shadow on the coronal view of the ultrasound image. Since the marker is applied to the outer edge of the breast, its shadow does not affect the image quality of the breast area of ​​diagnostic value.

[0113] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a breast with a marker M applied thereto. Figure 5 As shown, a marker M is applied to four locations on the outer edge of the breast 500, for example, at three o'clock, six o'clock, nine o'clock, and twelve o'clock on the breast 500. The four markers M outline the boundary of the breast. In this embodiment of the present application, an ultrasound image is obtained by performing an ultrasound scan on the breast 500 with the markers M applied thereto.

[0114] exist Figure 5 In the example of applying four markers M of different shapes to the outer edge of the breast 500, the present application does not limit the number and shape of the markers M. For example, other numbers of markers may be applied to the outer edge of the breast 500, or markers of the same shape may be applied to the outer edge of the breast 500. For example, one, two, three, or more than four markers of the same or different shapes may be applied to the outer edge of the breast 500.

[0115] In the embodiment of the present application, the outer edge of the breast can be understood as the outer contour of the breast organ in the art, which surrounds the entire mammary gland area and other body tissues. Figure 5In the example, that is, the range included in the mark M, the present application does not limit the specific application position of the mark M. For example, in Figure 5 In the example, the four marks M are distributed at approximately equal intervals. The positions of the marks M may also be non-equal intervals.

[0116] In some embodiments, the ultrasound image includes multiple two-dimensional images, and a coronal view of the breast corresponding to the ultrasound image can be obtained by reconstructing the multiple two-dimensional images.

[0117] In the above embodiment, each ultrasound scan obtains multiple two-dimensional images. By reconstructing the multiple two-dimensional images, a coronal view can be obtained as the scan result of this ultrasound scan. After reconstruction, a three-dimensional ultrasound image can be obtained. For example, by reconstructing Figure 5 The triangular mark and the circular mark shown in the figure are ultrasonically scanned to obtain multiple two-dimensional images (perpendicular to the paper surface). By reconstructing these multiple two-dimensional images, a local coronal view of the scanned position of the breast is obtained. Similarly, by reconstructing Figure 5 The triangle mark and square mark shown in the figure are used to perform ultrasound scanning to obtain a coronal view of the scanning position of the breast. Figure 5 The square mark and the diamond mark shown in the figure are used to perform ultrasound scanning to obtain a local coronal view of the scanning position of the breast. Figure 5 The prismatic markers and circular markers shown are used for ultrasound scanning to obtain a local coronal view of the scanned position of the breast. Thus, by scanning the breast four times, four local coronal views are obtained, and the overall coronal view of the breast can be obtained from the four local coronal views, for example, by splicing the four local coronal views to obtain the overall coronal view of the breast. The specific splicing method will be described later. It is not difficult to understand that the above-mentioned two-dimensional image can ensure the high resolution of the breast scan and the integrity of the field of view as much as possible. This method has higher imaging quality, especially compared to conventional three-dimensional and four-dimensional volume ultrasound imaging. Specifically, the above-mentioned method reconstructs a three-dimensional image on the basis of obtaining a high-quality two-dimensional image, ensuring the high resolution of the three-dimensional image (volume image). This will be conducive to identifying the edge of the breast and the mammary gland from the two-dimensional image and the reconstructed three-dimensional image, thereby ensuring the accuracy of quantitative analysis.

[0118] The above is just an example. If a single ultrasound scan of the breast can cover the entire breast area, then a single ultrasound scan will yield a global coronal view of the breast. For another example, if three ultrasound scans of the breast can cover the entire breast area, then three partial coronal views of the breast can be obtained from the three ultrasound scans. These three partial coronal views can then be combined to yield a global coronal view of the breast.

[0119] In operation 420, the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast are determined based on the ultrasound image, for example, by Figure 6 The method shown is implemented. Figure 6 As shown, the method includes:

[0120] 610: Segment each of the multiple two-dimensional images to obtain a mammary gland and a chest wall of the breast;

[0121] 620: reconstruct each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a local coronal view of the breast;

[0122] 630: Determine the volume of the breast based on the breast, and determine the volume of the breast based on the chest wall and the local coronal view.

[0123] It is worth noting that the above Figure 6 The method for determining the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast based on ultrasound images in the embodiment of the present application is only schematically described, but the present application is not limited thereto. For example, the execution order of the various operations can be appropriately adjusted, and other operations can be added or some operations can be reduced. Those skilled in the art can make appropriate modifications based on the above content, and are not limited to the above appended examples. Figure 6 Records of.

[0124] In the above embodiment, Figure 5 Taking the four scans shown as an example, in operation 610, each of the multiple two-dimensional images obtained by each ultrasound scan is segmented to obtain the mammary gland and chest wall of the breast; in operation 620, each of the multiple two-dimensional images obtained by each ultrasound scan is reconstructed to obtain a local coronal view of the breast; in operation 630, the volume of the mammary gland is determined based on the above-mentioned mammary gland obtained by the multiple ultrasound scans, and the volume of the breast is determined based on the above-mentioned chest wall obtained by the multiple ultrasound scans and the above-mentioned local coronal view.

[0125] In operation 610 , an AI segmentation model may be used to segment a region of interest, such as a breast and a chest wall, from the two-dimensional image. Figure 7 7 is a schematic diagram of segmenting a breast 710 and a chest wall 720 from a two-dimensional image 700. The present application does not limit the specific segmentation method, and reference may be made to related technologies.

[0126] In operation 620 , a local coronal view of the breast may be obtained by reconstructing the two-dimensional image. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a partial coronal view of the breast, Figure 8 In the example, Figure 5 The triangle mark and the circle mark are shown as an example of a partial coronal view obtained by ultrasound scanning. Figure 8As shown, since the marker is applied to the outer edge of the breast, the shadow of the marker is retained on the obtained local coronal view. Since the marker is applied to the outer edge of the breast, its shadow does not affect the image quality of the local coronal view.

[0127] In operation 630, the volume of the breast is determined based on the local coronal view of the chest wall and breast, for example, by Figure 9 The method shown is implemented. Figure 9 As shown, the method includes:

[0128] 910: Detecting a nipple and a landmark on each of the plurality of partial coronal views;

[0129] 920: performing registration on the multiple local coronal views according to the positions of the nipple and the marker on each local coronal view to obtain an overall coronal view of the breast;

[0130] 930: determining the breast boundary according to the position of the above-mentioned mark;

[0131] 940: Breast volume is obtained based on the breast boundary and the distance from the skin to the chest wall within the breast boundary.

[0132] It is worth noting that the above Figure 9 The method for determining breast volume based on the partial coronal view of the chest wall and breast according to the embodiment of the present application is only schematically described, but the present application is not limited thereto. For example, the execution order of the various operations can be appropriately adjusted, and other operations can be added or some operations can be reduced. Those skilled in the art can make appropriate modifications based on the above content, and are not limited to the above appended examples. Figure 9 Records of.

[0133] In operation 910, each local coronal view is obtained by performing an ultrasound scan of a portion of the breast. For example, multiple two-dimensional images are obtained by performing an ultrasound scan of the breast region containing the triangular and circular markers. These multiple two-dimensional images are then reconstructed to obtain the local coronal view of the breast. The nipple and the markers can be detected in the local coronal view. This application does not limit the specific detection method; for example, detection can be performed based on pixel brightness in the image.

[0134] In the above embodiment, if the entire coronal view of the breast can be obtained through a single ultrasound scan, operation 910 may be omitted.

[0135] In operation 920, since the plurality of local coronal views each illustrate a portion of the breast, for example, Figure 5 The local coronal view of the ultrasound scan of the area marked with triangles and circles shows the lower left area of ​​the breast, including Figure 5 The partial coronal view of the ultrasound scan of the area marked with triangles and squares shows the upper left area of ​​the breast, including Figure 5 The partial coronal view of the ultrasound scan of the area marked with square and diamond marks shows the upper right area of ​​the breast, including Figure 5 The local coronal view obtained by ultrasound scanning the area of ​​the prismatic and circular marks shows the lower right area of ​​the breast. According to the embodiment of the present application, by splicing (registering) these four local coronal views, the overall coronal view of the breast can be obtained.

[0136] like Figure 10 As shown, the positions of the nipples N in the four local coronal views 1010 to 1040 are aligned, the triangular mark M1 on the local coronal view 1010 is aligned with the triangular mark M1 on the local coronal view 1020, the square mark M2 on the local coronal view 1020 is aligned with the square mark M2 on the local coronal view 1030, the prismatic mark M3 on the local coronal view 1030 is aligned with the prismatic mark M3 on the local coronal view 1040, and the circular mark M4 on the local coronal view 1040 is aligned with the circular mark M4 on the local coronal view 1010. Thus, the overall coronal view 1000 of the breast is obtained.

[0137] The above registration (stitching) method is merely an example. If the number of markers varies and / or the markers have the same or similar shapes, other registration (stitching) methods may be used. For details, please refer to related art and will not be described here. Furthermore, if a single ultrasound scan can yield a complete coronal view of the breast, step 920 may be omitted.

[0138] In operation 930, after obtaining the overall coronal view of the breast, since the marker is applied to the outer edge of the breast, the breast boundary can be determined based on the position of the marker, for example, Figure 5 The four markers shown are fitted with a curve, and the above four markers are connected to obtain the boundary of the breast, as shown in Figure 10 The line 1050 shown is marked as the boundary of the breast.

[0139] In operation 940 , the breast volume can be obtained with the boundary of the breast and the distance from the skin to the chest wall within the boundary. This application does not limit the specific calculation method, and reference may be made to related technologies.

[0140] In the above embodiment, the position of the chest wall can be determined by Figure 11 The method shown is used to determine the Figure 11 As shown, the method includes:

[0141] 1110: Segmenting a chest wall from each of the multiple two-dimensional images to obtain a segmentation mask of the chest wall;

[0142] 1120: Registering multiple chest wall segmentation masks on the multiple two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register multiple local coronal views of the breast to obtain chest wall masks;

[0143] 1130: Get the position of the chest wall according to the chest wall mask.

[0144] It is worth noting that the above Figure 11 The method for determining the position of the chest wall in the embodiment of the present application is only schematically described, but the present application is not limited thereto. For example, the execution order of each operation can be appropriately adjusted, and other operations can be added or some operations can be reduced. Those skilled in the art can make appropriate modifications based on the above content, and are not limited to the above appended examples. Figure 11 Records of.

[0145] In operation 1110, the segmentation method is Figure 6 The operation 610 shown is similar and will not be described again here.

[0146] In operation 1120, the multiple chest wall segmentation masks on the multiple two-dimensional images are registered using the registration parameters used to register the multiple local coronal views, such as the same registration transformation matrix, to obtain a chest wall mask. Furthermore, the position of the chest wall can be obtained based on the chest wall mask.

[0147] In the above embodiment, once the position of the chest wall is determined, the distance from the skin to the chest wall can be obtained, and the volume of the breast can be determined based on the boundary of the breast.

[0148] In operation 630, the volume of the breast is determined based on the breast, for example, by Figure 12 The method shown is implemented.

[0149] like Figure 12 As shown, the method includes:

[0150] 1210: Segmenting a mammary gland from each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a segmentation mask of the mammary gland;

[0151] 1220: registering multiple segmentation masks of the breast on the multiple two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the multiple local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the breast;

[0152] 1230: Obtain the volume of the mammary gland according to the mammary gland mask.

[0153] It is worth noting that the above Figure 12The method for determining the volume of a breast based on a breast according to an embodiment of the present application is only schematically described, but the present application is not limited thereto. For example, the execution order of each operation can be appropriately adjusted, and other operations can be added or some operations can be reduced. Those skilled in the art can make appropriate modifications based on the above content, and are not limited to the above appended examples. Figure 12 Records of.

[0154] In operation 1210, the segmentation method is Figure 6 The operation 610 shown is similar and will not be described again here.

[0155] In operation 1220, the multiple breast segmentation masks on the multiple two-dimensional images are registered using the registration parameters used to register the multiple local coronal views, such as the same registration transformation matrix, to obtain a breast mask. Furthermore, the breast volume can be calculated based on the breast mask. This application does not limit the specific calculation method.

[0156] In the above embodiment, after the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast are determined, the breast density can be obtained by dividing the volume of the mammary gland by the volume of the breast.

[0157] The above embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Appropriate modifications may be made based on the above embodiments. For example, the above embodiments may be used alone, or one or more of the above embodiments may be combined.

[0158] In other embodiments, Figure 4 As shown, the method may further include:

[0159] 440: Calculate breast density map within the breast region based on breast thickness and distance from skin to chest wall;

[0160] 450: Visually display the breast density map.

[0161] In the above embodiment, the breast thickness can be determined based on the ultrasound image, for example, by calculating the breast mask. The present application does not limit the specific calculation method. The breast mask can be obtained by Figure 12 The method shown is obtained and will not be described here.

[0162] In the above embodiment, the position of the chest wall can be determined based on the above ultrasound image, for example, by Figure 11 The distance from the skin to the chest wall can be obtained according to the position of the chest wall.

[0163] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of breast density map calculation, such as Figure 13 As shown, through Figure 12 The method shown in FIG. 4 is used to obtain the mask of the mammary gland, and the thickness H1 of the mammary gland can be calculated based on the mask of the mammary gland. Figure 11 The method shown obtains the position of the chest wall, and based on the position of the chest wall, the distance H2 from the skin to the chest wall can be obtained. In the embodiment of the present application, for each point within the boundary of the breast, the breast density is calculated, that is, H1 / H2, thereby obtaining a breast density map within the boundary of the breast. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of an example of a breast density map, such as Figure 14 As shown, different densities can be represented by different colors or different depths of color, but the present application is not limited thereto. The breast density map can also be represented in other ways. Based on the breast density map, doctors or ultrasound scan operators can intuitively detect lesions, providing convenience for operators.

[0164] In the above embodiment, optionally, the above breast density map may be superimposed and displayed on the coronal view of the breast. Figure 15 It will Figure 14 A schematic diagram of an example of a breast density map superimposed on a coronal view of the breast is shown. Figure 15 As shown, since the coronal view of the breast shows the entire picture of the breast, the detection of lesions can be further guided by superimposing the breast density map.

[0165] According to the method of the embodiment of the present application, breast density is quantified by acquiring three-dimensional volume data of the breast and detecting glandular breast tissue and chest wall tissue from the three-dimensional volume data. Optionally, the distribution of breast density can also be visualized, providing more information for clinical applications, such as lesion detection navigation.

[0166] The present application also provides an ultrasound imaging system including a scanning component and a processor. The scanning component is configured to move across the breast surface to acquire ultrasound echo signals. The specific implementation of the scanning component has been previously described and will not be further elaborated here.

[0167] In the above embodiment, the processor is configured to execute the method of the above embodiment. Since the specific implementation of the method has been described in the previous embodiment, its content is incorporated here and will not be repeated here.

[0168] The present application also provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a computer program having at least one code segment, wherein the at least one code segment is executable by a machine to cause the machine to perform the steps of the method described in the aforementioned embodiment. Since the specific implementation of the method has been described in the previous embodiment, its content is incorporated herein and is not repeated here.

[0169] The above methods of the present application can be implemented by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software. The present application relates to a computer-readable program that, when executed by a logic component, enables the logic component to implement the constituent components described above, or enables the logic component to implement the various methods or steps described above. The present application also relates to a storage medium for storing the above program, such as a hard disk, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a DVD, a flash memory, etc.

[0170] The methods described in conjunction with the embodiments of the present application can be directly embodied as hardware, software modules executed by a processor, or a combination of the two. For example, one or more of the functional block diagrams shown in the figure and / or one or more combinations of functional block diagrams can correspond to various software modules of the computer program flow or to various hardware modules. These software modules can correspond to the various steps shown in the figure, respectively. These hardware modules can be implemented by solidifying these software modules, for example, using a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0171] The software module may be located in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. A storage medium may be coupled to a processor so that the processor can read information from the storage medium and write information to the storage medium; or the storage medium may be an integral part of the processor. The processor and the storage medium may be located in an ASIC. The software module may be stored in the memory of the mobile terminal or in a memory card that can be inserted into the mobile terminal. For example, if the device (such as a mobile terminal) uses a large-capacity MEGA-SIM card or a large-capacity flash memory device, the software module may be stored in the MEGA-SIM card or the large-capacity flash memory device.

[0172] One or more of the functional blocks and / or one or more combinations of functional blocks described in the accompanying drawings may be implemented as a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic device, a discrete hardware component, or any appropriate combination thereof for performing the functions described in this application. One or more of the functional blocks and / or one or more combinations of functional blocks described in the accompanying drawings may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in communication with a DSP, or any other such configuration.

[0173] The present application has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, those skilled in the art should understand that these descriptions are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations to the present application based on the spirit and principles of the present application, and such modifications and variations are also within the scope of the present application.

[0174] The preferred embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many features and advantages of these embodiments are apparent from this detailed description, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of these embodiments that fall within their true spirit and scope. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the embodiments of the present application are not intended to be limited to the precise structure and operation illustrated and described, but are intended to cover all suitable modifications, variations, and equivalents that fall within the scope thereof.

Claims

1. A method for quantifying breast density, wherein: The method comprises: performing an ultrasound scan on the breast to obtain an ultrasound image of the breast; determining the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast based on the ultrasound image; The density of the breast is determined based on the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Performing an ultrasound scan on the breast to obtain an ultrasound image of the breast, including: performing ultrasound scanning on a breast having at least one sound-proof marker attached to an outer edge thereof using a scanning component to obtain the ultrasound image; The scanning assembly includes a frame, wherein a scanning probe and a driving device are housed in the frame, and the driving device drives the scanning probe to move in the frame to perform the ultrasonic scanning.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: There are multiple marks, and the multiple marks are applied to the outer edge of the breast.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein The ultrasound image includes a plurality of two-dimensional images.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein Determining the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast according to the ultrasound image includes: Segmenting each of the multiple two-dimensional images to obtain the mammary gland and chest wall of the breast; reconstructing each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a local coronal view of the breast; A volume of the mammary gland is determined based on the mammary gland, and a volume of the breast is determined based on the chest wall and the local coronal view.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein: Determining a volume of a mammary gland according to the mammary gland includes: Segmenting a breast from each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a segmentation mask of the breast; registering the plurality of segmentation masks of the breast on the plurality of two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the breast; The volume of the mammary gland is obtained according to the mask of the mammary gland.

7. The method according to claim 5, wherein: Determining a breast volume based on the chest wall and the local coronal view includes: detecting nipples and landmarks separately on each of the multiple partial coronal views; registering the multiple local coronal views according to the positions of the nipple and the marker on each local coronal view to obtain an overall coronal view of the breast; determining breast boundaries based on the locations of the markers; The volume of the breast is obtained according to the breast boundary and the distance from the skin to the chest wall within the breast boundary.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein: Determining a volume of the breast based on the chest wall and the plurality of local coronal views further comprises: The location of the chest wall is determined.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein Determine the position of the chest wall, including: Segmenting a chest wall from each of the plurality of two-dimensional images to obtain a segmentation mask of the chest wall; registering a plurality of chest wall segmentation masks on the plurality of two-dimensional images according to a registration parameter used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the chest wall; The position of the chest wall is obtained according to the mask of the chest wall.

10. The method according to claim 4, wherein: The method further comprises: Calculating a breast density map within the region of the breast based on the thickness of the mammary gland and the distance from the skin to the chest wall; The breast density map is visually displayed.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The method further comprises: The breast density map is superimposed on a coronal view of the breast.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The method further comprises: The thickness of the breast and the position of the chest wall are determined based on the ultrasound image.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: Determining the thickness of the breast according to the ultrasound image includes: Segmenting the mammary gland from each two-dimensional image to obtain a segmentation mask of the mammary gland; registering the plurality of segmentation masks of the breast in the plurality of two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the breast; The thickness of the mammary gland is calculated based on the mask of the mammary gland.

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein: Determining the position of the chest wall according to the ultrasound image includes: Segmenting the chest wall from each two-dimensional image to obtain a segmentation mask of the chest wall; registering the plurality of segmentation masks of the plurality of two-dimensional images according to the registration parameters used to register the plurality of local coronal views of the breast to obtain a mask of the chest wall; The position of the chest wall is obtained according to the mask of the chest wall.

15. An ultrasonic imaging system, characterized in that: The ultrasound imaging system comprises: a scanning component that moves on the surface of the breast to acquire ultrasound echo signals; and A processor configured to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a computer program, wherein the computer program has at least one code segment, and the at least one code segment can be executed by a machine to cause the machine to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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