Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment

Abstract

The technical problem of the present invention is to facilitate the appropriate differentiation and use of blood flow images. An ultrasonic diagnostic device of an embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires a change in display parameters related to the display of an image based on the first blood flow image mode during the execution of a first blood flow image mode that displays a blood flow signal acquired by an ultrasonic probe. The determination unit determines whether the changed display parameters are more suitable for a second blood flow image mode having an image mode different from that of the first blood flow image mode than the first blood flow image mode.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-063422, filed on March 21, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments relate to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. Background Art

[0004] In the past, ultrasonic diagnostic devices were sometimes equipped with multiple blood flow imaging modes that display blood flow in two-dimensional images. Among these multiple blood flow imaging modes, there are, for example, a CDI (Color Doppler Imaging) mode that can display blood flow velocity information and an energy Doppler mode that can display blood flow energy information. In addition, among the multiple blood flow imaging modes, there are various modes such as a mode dedicated to depicting low flow velocities and a mode that can display with high sensitivity. Users need to distinguish and use multiple blood flow imaging modes according to the clinical information they want to observe.

[0005] However, when multiple blood flow imaging modes are used according to desired clinical information, the user needs to identify the blood flow imaging modes for obtaining the desired clinical information, which not only places a burden on the user, but also may cause the user to fail to select an appropriate blood flow imaging mode.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-175069

[0008] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-42823 Summary of the invention

[0009] An object of the present invention is to facilitate appropriate differentiation and utilization of blood flow images.

[0010] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires a change in display parameters related to display of an image based on the first blood flow imaging mode during execution of a first blood flow imaging mode that displays a blood flow signal acquired by an ultrasonic probe. The determination unit determines whether the changed display parameters are more suitable for a second blood flow imaging mode having an imaging method different from the first blood flow imaging mode than the first blood flow imaging mode.

[0011] The effect of the present invention is that it becomes easy to appropriately distinguish and use blood flow images. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the device body of the ultrasonic diagnostic device according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 It is a plan view showing the appearance of an input device connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processing circuit that executes the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 The diagram exemplifies display images including a display example for notifying a transition to the recommended blood flow image mode in the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 The diagram exemplifies display images including a display example showing a transition to the recommended blood flow image mode in the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a diagram for explaining a first specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 9 It is a diagram for explaining a second specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment.

[0021] Fig.10 It is a diagram for explaining a third specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment.

[0022] Fig.11 This is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a processing circuit that executes the blood flow image mode transition process in the application example of the first embodiment.

[0023] Fig.12 The diagram exemplifies display images including a display example for prompting a transition to a recommended blood flow image mode in an application example of the first embodiment.

[0024] Fig.13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a display image of a touch panel including a software button for switching to a recommended blood flow image mode in an application example of the first embodiment.

[0025] Fig.14This is a diagram illustrating a display image including a display example and options for prompting a transition to a recommended blood flow image mode in an application example of the first embodiment.

[0026] Fig.15 This is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processing circuit that executes the blood flow image mode transition process in the second embodiment.

[0027] Fig.16 It is a diagram for explaining the blood flow image mode transition process in the second embodiment.

[0028] Fig.17 It is a diagram for explaining a first specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the second embodiment.

[0029] Fig.18 It is a diagram for explaining a second specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the second embodiment.

[0030] Fig.19 It is a diagram for explaining a third specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the second embodiment.

[0031] Description of Reference Numerals

[0032] 1…ultrasonic diagnostic device, 1021, 1021A…touch panel, 1022…first operating unit, 1023…second operating unit, 1031A, 1031B, 1031C, 1031D…display image, 1032A, 1032B, 1032C, 1032D…notification bar, D1…knob, D2…ring, HB1, HB2, HB3…hardware button, M3, M3A, M3B, M3C…blood flow imaging mode, SB1, SB2, SB3, SB4…software button, SW1…switch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires a change in display parameters related to display of an image based on the first blood flow imaging mode during execution of a first blood flow imaging mode that displays a blood flow signal acquired by an ultrasonic probe. The determination unit determines whether the changed display parameters are more suitable for a second blood flow imaging mode having an imaging mode different from that of the first blood flow imaging mode than the first blood flow imaging mode.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0035] (First Embodiment)

[0036] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 includes an apparatus body 100 and an ultrasonic probe 101. The apparatus body 100 is connected to an input device 102 and an output device 103. In addition, the apparatus body 100 is connected to an external device 104 via a network NW. The external device 104 is, for example, a server equipped with a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems).

[0037] The ultrasonic probe 101 performs ultrasonic scanning on a scanning area in a living body P as a subject, for example, according to control from the device body 100. The ultrasonic probe 101 includes, for example, a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators, an integration layer provided between the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators and a shell, and a backing material for preventing ultrasonic waves from propagating backward relative to the radiation direction from the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators. The ultrasonic probe 101 is, for example, a one-dimensional array linear probe in which a plurality of ultrasonic vibrators are arranged in a predetermined direction. The ultrasonic probe 101 is detachably connected to the device body 100. The ultrasonic probe 101 may also be provided with a button to be pressed during an offset process and an operation to freeze an ultrasonic image (freeze operation).

[0038] The plurality of piezoelectric vibrators generate ultrasonic waves based on a driving signal supplied from an ultrasonic transmission circuit 110 (described later) included in the device body 100. As a result, ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 101 to the living body P. When ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 101 to the living body P, the transmitted ultrasonic waves are reflected one by one by the discontinuous surfaces of acoustic impedance in the body tissue of the living body P, and are received by the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators as reflected wave signals. The amplitude of the received reflected wave signal depends on the difference in acoustic impedance on the discontinuous surface that reflects the ultrasonic wave. In addition, when the transmitted ultrasonic pulse is reflected by the surface of a moving blood flow or a heart wall, the reflected wave signal is subjected to a frequency shift depending on the velocity component of the moving body in the ultrasonic transmission direction according to the Doppler effect. The ultrasonic probe 101 receives the reflected wave signal from the living body P and converts it into an electrical signal.

[0039] exist Figure 1 , the connection relationship between one ultrasonic probe 101 and the device body 100 is illustrated. However, a plurality of ultrasonic probes can be connected to the device body 100. Which of the plurality of connected ultrasonic probes is used for ultrasonic scanning can be arbitrarily selected by, for example, a software button on a touch panel described later.

[0040] The device body 100 is a device that generates an ultrasonic image based on a reflected wave signal received by an ultrasonic probe 101. The device body 100 includes an ultrasonic transmission circuit 110, an ultrasonic reception circuit 120, an internal storage circuit 130, an image memory 140, an input interface 150, an output interface 160, a communication interface 170, and a processing circuit 180.

[0041] The ultrasonic transmission circuit 110 is a processor that supplies a driving signal to the ultrasonic probe 101. The ultrasonic transmission circuit 110 is implemented, for example, by a trigger generation circuit, a delay circuit, and a pulse generator circuit. The trigger generation circuit repeatedly generates a rate pulse for forming a transmitted ultrasonic wave at a predetermined rate frequency. The delay circuit gives each rate pulse generated by the trigger generation circuit a delay time for each of the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators required to determine the transmission directivity in order to converge the ultrasonic wave generated from the ultrasonic probe into a beam shape. The pulse generator circuit applies a driving signal (driving pulse) to the plurality of ultrasonic vibrators provided in the ultrasonic probe 101 at a timing based on the rate pulse. By using the delay circuit to change the delay time given to each rate pulse, the transmission direction from the surface of the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators can be arbitrarily adjusted.

[0042] In addition, the ultrasonic transmission circuit 110 can arbitrarily change the output intensity of the ultrasonic wave according to the driving signal. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, by increasing the output intensity, the influence of the attenuation of the ultrasonic wave in the living body P can be reduced. By reducing the influence of the attenuation of the ultrasonic wave, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can obtain a reflected wave signal with a large S / N ratio when receiving.

[0043] Generally speaking, when ultrasonic waves propagate in a biological body P, the intensity of ultrasonic vibrations (also referred to as acoustic power) equivalent to the output intensity decays. The attenuation of acoustic power is caused by absorption, scattering, and reflection, etc. In addition, the degree of reduction in acoustic power depends on the frequency of the ultrasonic waves and the distance in the radiation direction of the ultrasonic waves. For example, by increasing the frequency of the ultrasonic waves, the degree of attenuation becomes greater. In addition, the longer the distance in the radiation direction of the ultrasonic waves, the greater the degree of attenuation.

[0044] The ultrasonic receiving circuit 120 is a processor that performs various processing on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 101 to generate a received signal. The ultrasonic receiving circuit 120 generates a received signal for the reflected wave signal of the ultrasonic wave obtained by the ultrasonic probe 101. Specifically, the ultrasonic receiving circuit 120 is implemented by, for example, a preamplifier, an A / D converter, a demodulator, and a beamformer. The preamplifier amplifies the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 101 for each channel and performs gain correction processing. The A / D converter converts the reflected wave signal after gain correction into a digital signal. The demodulator demodulates the digital signal. The beamformer, for example, gives the demodulated digital signal a delay time required to determine the receiving directivity, and adds a plurality of digital signals to which the delay time is given. Through the addition processing of the beamformer, a received signal in which the reflected component from the direction corresponding to the receiving directivity is enhanced is generated.

[0045] The internal storage circuit 130 has, for example, a storage medium that can be read by a processor, such as a magnetic storage medium, an optical storage medium, or a semiconductor memory. The internal storage circuit 130 stores a program for realizing ultrasonic transmission and reception, a program related to the blood flow image mode transition processing described later, the determination conditions described later, the transition conditions described later, and various data. The program and various data can be stored in the internal storage circuit 130 in advance. In addition, the program and various data can also be stored in a non-temporary storage medium and released, read from the non-temporary storage medium and installed in the internal storage circuit 130. In addition, the internal storage circuit 130 stores B-mode image data, contrast image data, and image data related to blood flow images generated by the processing circuit 180 according to the operation input via the input interface 150. The internal storage circuit 130 can also transmit the stored image data to the external device 104 via the communication interface 170.

[0046] In addition, the internal storage circuit 130 may also be a drive device that reads and writes various information between a CD drive, a DVD drive, a flash memory, and other removable storage media. The internal storage circuit 130 can also write the stored data to the removable storage medium and store the data in the external device 104 via the removable storage medium.

[0047] The image memory 140 includes, for example, a storage medium that can be read by a processor, such as a magnetic storage medium, an optical storage medium, or a semiconductor memory. The image memory 140 stores image data corresponding to a plurality of frames immediately before the freeze operation input via the input interface 150. The image data stored in the image memory 140 is displayed continuously (video display), for example.

[0048] The internal storage circuit 130 and the image memory 140 may not necessarily be implemented by separate storage devices. The internal storage circuit 130 and the image memory 140 may be implemented by a single storage device. In addition, the internal storage circuit 130 and the image memory 140 may be implemented by a plurality of storage devices, respectively.

[0049] The input interface 150 receives various instructions from the operator via the input device 102. The input device 102 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a panel switch, a slide switch, a trackball, a rotary encoder, an operation panel, and a touch command screen (TCS). The input interface 150 is connected to the processing circuit 180, for example, via a bus, converts the operation instructions input from the operator into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 180. In addition, the input interface 150 is not limited to an interface connected to physical operating components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, a circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device that is separately provided from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuit 180 is also included in the example of the input interface.

[0050] The output interface 160 is, for example, an interface for outputting an electrical signal from the processing circuit 180 to the output device 103. The output device 103 is any display such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, a CRT display, etc. The output device 103 may also be a touch panel display that also serves as the input device 102. In addition to the display, the output device 103 may also include a speaker for outputting voice. The output interface 160 is connected to the processing circuit 180 via a bus, for example, and outputs the electrical signal from the processing circuit 180 to the output device 103.

[0051] Figure 2 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the main body of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 An input device 102 and an output device 103 are connected to the device body 100. The user obtains desired clinical information by operating the input device 102 and visually checking the output device 103.

[0052] Figure 3 It is a plan view showing the appearance of an input device connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 The input device 102 includes a touch panel 1021 , a first operating unit 1022 , and a second operating unit 1023 .

[0053] For example, a setting screen of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is displayed on the touch panel 1021. The setting screen includes software buttons for switching the connected ultrasonic probe, software buttons for changing to another mode, and setting items that can be changed according to the operation of the first operating unit 1022.

[0054] The first operating unit 1022 is composed of, for example, a dial knob, a switch movable in the up-down direction, a switch movable in the left-right direction, etc. The first operating unit 1022 is used, for example, to change a setting item displayed on the screen of the touch panel 1021 .

[0055] The second operating unit 1023 is composed of, for example, a dial-type ring, a hardware button, a wheel, a trackball, etc. The second operating unit 1023 is used, for example, when directly changing the mode of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. In addition, the second operating unit 1023 is also used, for example, when changing the parameters (display parameters) related to the display of the ultrasonic image displayed on the display as the output device 103.

[0056] The communication interface 170 is connected to the external device 104 via the network NW, for example, and performs data communication with the external device 104 .

[0057] The processing circuit 180 is, for example, a processor that functions as the core of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1. The processing circuit 180 implements a function corresponding to a program stored in the internal storage circuit 130 by executing the program. The processing circuit 180 includes, for example, a B-mode processing function 181, a Doppler processing function 182, an image generation function 183 (image generation unit), an acquisition function 184 (acquisition unit), a determination function 185 (determination unit), a transition control function 186 (transition control unit), a display control function 187 (display control unit), and a system control function 188.

[0058] The B-mode processing function 181 is a function for generating B-mode data based on the reception signal received from the ultrasonic reception circuit 120. In the B-mode processing function 181, the processing circuit 180 performs envelope detection processing and logarithmic compression processing on the reception signal received from the ultrasonic reception circuit 120, and generates data (B-mode data) in which the signal intensity is expressed by the brightness of the luminance. The generated B-mode data is stored in a RAW data memory (not shown) as B-mode RAW data on a two-dimensional ultrasonic scanning line (raster).

[0059] In addition, the processing circuit 180 can perform contrast echo method, such as contrast harmonic imaging (CHI), using the B-mode processing function 181. That is, the processing circuit 180 can separate the reflected wave data (higher harmonic components or frequency-divided components) of the living body P injected with contrast agent from the reflected wave data (fundamental wave components) with the tissue in the living body P as the reflection source. Thus, the processing circuit 180 can generate B-mode data for extracting the higher harmonic components or frequency-divided components from the reflected wave data of the living body P to generate contrast image data.

[0060] The B-mode data for generating contrast image data is data that expresses the signal intensity of the reflected wave with the contrast agent as the reflection source in terms of brightness. In addition, the processing circuit 180 can generate B-mode data for extracting the fundamental wave component from the reflected wave data of the living body P to generate tissue image data.

[0061] In addition, when performing CHI, the processing circuit 180 can extract harmonic components (higher harmonic components) by a method different from the above-mentioned method using filtering processing. In harmonic imaging, an amplitude modulation (AM: Amplitude Modulation) method, a phase modulation (PM: Phase Modulation) method, and an imaging method called AMPM method which is a combination of AM method and PM method are performed.

[0062] In the AM method, the PM method, and the AMPM method, ultrasonic waves with different amplitudes and phases are transmitted multiple times for the same scanning line. As a result, the ultrasonic receiving circuit 120 generates a plurality of reflected wave data using each scanning line and outputs the generated reflected wave data. The processing circuit 180B extracts the harmonic component by performing addition and subtraction processing corresponding to the modulation method on the plurality of reflected wave data of each scanning line using the mode processing function 181. Then, the processing circuit 180 performs envelope detection processing on the reflected wave data of the harmonic component, etc., to generate B-mode data.

[0063] The Doppler processing function 182 is a function for generating data (Doppler information) from which motion information of a moving body based on the Doppler effect is extracted by frequency analysis of the reception signal received from the ultrasonic reception circuit 120, the moving body being within a ROI (Region Of Interest) set in the scanning area. The generated Doppler information is stored in a RAW data memory (not shown) as Doppler RAW data (also referred to as Doppler data) on a two-dimensional ultrasonic scanning line.

[0064] Specifically, the processing circuit 180 estimates the average velocity, average discrete value, average energy value, etc. at a plurality of sampling points as the motion information of the moving body, for example, using the Doppler processing function 182, and generates Doppler data representing the estimated motion information. The moving body is, for example, blood flow, tissue such as the heart wall, and contrast agent. The processing circuit 180 of the embodiment estimates the average velocity of the blood flow, the discrete value of the blood flow velocity, the energy value of the blood flow signal, etc. at a plurality of sampling points as the motion information of the blood flow (blood flow information), and generates Doppler data representing the estimated blood flow information.

[0065] Furthermore, the processing circuit 180 can perform a color Doppler method, also called a color flow mapping (CFM) method, by using a Doppler processing function 182. In the CFM method, ultrasound is transmitted and received multiple times on multiple scanning lines. Furthermore, in the CFM method, for example, by applying an MTI (Moving Target Indicator) filter to a data column at the same position, a signal (clutter signal) from a stationary tissue or a slow-moving tissue is suppressed, and a signal from the blood flow is extracted. Furthermore, in the CFM method, blood flow information such as the velocity of the blood flow, the dispersion of the blood flow, and the energy of the blood flow is estimated using the extracted blood flow signal. In the image generation function 183 described later, the distribution of the estimated blood flow information is generated as, for example, two-dimensional color display ultrasound image data (color Doppler image data). Hereinafter, a mode of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus that extracts blood flow signals using an MTI filter based on the Doppler method and uses the extracted blood flow signals for imaging is referred to as a blood flow imaging mode. Note that color display refers to displaying the distribution of blood flow information in association with a predetermined color code, and grayscale is also included in color display.

[0066] There are various types of blood flow image modes depending on the desired clinical information. Generally, there are velocity display blood flow image modes that can visualize the direction of blood flow and the average velocity of blood flow, and energy display blood flow image modes that can visualize the energy of blood flow signals.

[0067] The blood flow image mode for velocity display is a mode that displays colors corresponding to the Doppler shift frequency according to the direction of blood flow and the average velocity of blood flow. For example, in the blood flow image mode for velocity display, the oncoming flow is represented by red, the departing flow is represented by blue, and the difference in hue represents the difference in their respective velocities. The blood flow image mode for velocity display is sometimes also referred to as the color Doppler mode or the color Doppler imaging (CDI) mode. In addition, the "direction of blood flow and the average velocity of blood flow" can also be referred to as the "blood flow velocity information".

[0068] The energy display blood flow image mode is a mode that represents the energy of the blood flow signal by, for example, the hue of the red series, the brightness (brightness) of the color, or the change of the chromaticity. The energy display blood flow image mode is sometimes also called the power Doppler (Power Doppler: PD) mode. Compared with the velocity display blood flow image mode, the energy display blood flow image mode can depict the blood flow with high sensitivity, so it can also be called the high-sensitivity blood flow image mode. In addition, the "energy of the blood flow signal" can also be called the "energy information of the blood flow".

[0069] In addition to the CDI mode and PD mode, there are also low-flow imaging modes and high-resolution blood flow imaging modes that are dedicated to depicting low flow rates. These four blood flow imaging modes have different imaging methods defined by scanning protocols and signal processing. The detailed description of the imaging methods will be described later.

[0070] The image generation function 183B is a function for generating B-mode image data based on the data generated by the mode processing function 181. For example, in the image generation function 183, the processing circuit 180 converts (scan converts) the scan line signal sequence of the ultrasonic scan into a scan line signal sequence of a video format represented by a television, etc., and generates image data for display (display image data). Specifically, the processing circuit 180 performs RAW-pixel conversion on the B-mode RAW data stored in the RAW data storage, for example, performs coordinate conversion corresponding to the scanning method of the ultrasonic wave based on the ultrasonic probe 101, thereby generating two-dimensional B-mode image data (also called ultrasonic image data) composed of pixels. In other words, the processing circuit 180 uses the image generation function 183 to generate a plurality of ultrasonic images (medical images) corresponding to a plurality of consecutive frames by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves.

[0071] In addition, the processing circuit 180 performs RAW-pixel conversion on the Doppler RAW data stored in the RAW data memory, for example, to generate Doppler image data in which the blood flow information is visualized. The Doppler image data is average velocity image data, discrete image data, energy image data, or image data in which they are combined. The processing circuit 180 generates color Doppler image data that displays the blood flow information in color, and Doppler image data that displays one blood flow information in grayscale and in a wave shape as Doppler image data. The color Doppler image data is generated when the above-mentioned blood flow imaging mode is executed.

[0072] The acquisition function 184 is a function for acquiring parameters (display parameters) related to the display of an image input by the user. For example, in the acquisition function 184, the processing circuit 180 accepts the input (change) of the display parameters from the user. In other words, the processing circuit 180 uses the acquisition function 184 to acquire changes in the display parameters related to the display of an image based on the current blood flow image mode.

[0073] The determination function 185 is a function for determining whether the acquired display parameters satisfy a predetermined condition (transition condition). In other words, the processing circuit 180 determines whether the changed display parameters are more suitable for another blood flow image mode than the current blood flow image mode using the determination function 185. Specifically, in the determination function 185, the processing circuit 180 reads the transition condition stored in the internal storage circuit 130 and determines whether the acquired display parameters satisfy the predetermined condition.

[0074] The prescribed condition may be, for example, whether the display parameter is above a threshold value or below a threshold value, or whether multiple display parameters are above a threshold value corresponding to each parameter or below a threshold value. In addition, the prescribed condition may be, for example, whether one of the multiple parameters is above a threshold value and another parameter is below a threshold value, or the reverse may be used as a condition. In addition, the prescribed condition may also use other parameters that change according to the display parameters as a reference.

[0075] The transfer control function 186 is a function of transferring to a blood flow image mode recommended based on the changed parameters when the determination function 185 determines that the specified conditions are met. In other words, the processing circuit 180 uses the transfer control function 186 to transfer from the current blood flow image mode to other blood flow image modes when the changed display parameters are more suitable for other blood flow image modes than the current blood flow image mode. Specifically, in the transfer control function 186, the processing circuit 180 reads the transfer conditions stored in the internal storage circuit 130 and transfers to the blood flow image mode corresponding to the specified conditions met during the determination. The transfer conditions, for example, establish a correspondence between the specified conditions and the recommended blood flow image mode. That is, the display parameters and the threshold values ​​are respectively established to correspond to the transferred blood flow image mode. In addition, the transfer conditions can also be further established to correspond to the blood flow image mode before the transfer. In addition, the threshold value of the transfer conditions can also be changed by the user.

[0076] The display control function 187 is a function for displaying an image based on various ultrasonic image data generated by the image generation function 183 on a display as the output device 103. Specifically, for example, the processing circuit 180 uses the display control function 187 to control the display of an image based on B-mode image data, Doppler image data, or image data including both of them generated by the image generation function 183 on the display.

[0077] Furthermore, the processing circuit 180 displays information on the transition of the blood flow image mode through the display control function 187. Specifically, the processing circuit 180 performs a display for notifying the user that the transition is to be made and a display for notifying the user that the transition has been made.

[0078] More specifically, the processing circuit 180 utilizes the display control function 187 to convert (scan convert) the scan line signal sequence of the ultrasonic scan into a scan line signal sequence of a video format represented by a television, etc., to generate display image data. In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also perform various processes such as dynamic range, brightness, contrast, and gamma curve correction and RGB conversion on the display image data. In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also add character information of various parameters, scales, human body marks and other supplementary information to the display image data. In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also generate a user interface (GUI: Graphical User Interface) for the operator to input various instructions through an input device, and display the GUI on the display.

[0079] The system control function 188 is a function for collectively controlling the overall operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1. For example, in the system control function 188, the processing circuit 180 controls the ultrasonic transmission circuit 110 and the ultrasonic reception circuit 120 based on parameters related to the transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves.

[0080] Next, use Figure 3 The user's operation is described in detail. In order to select the desired blood flow imaging mode before the examination begins, the user needs to press, for example, the hardware button HB1, the hardware button HB2, and the hardware button HB3 of the second operating unit 1023. These buttons correspond to different blood flow imaging modes. Figure 3 For example, the hardware button HB1 corresponds to the CDI mode, the hardware button HB2 corresponds to the PD mode, and the hardware button HB3 corresponds to the blood flow imaging mode for low flow rate.

[0081] In addition, the selection of the blood flow imaging mode is not limited to the hardware button. For example, when the CDI mode is selected, by further selecting the software button SB1 displayed on the touch panel 1021, the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode can be executed.

[0082] Furthermore, in order to change the display parameters of the ultrasonic image displayed on the monitor, the user needs to operate the knob D1 and the switch SW1 included in the first operating unit 1022 and the ring D2 included in the second operating unit 1023 , for example.

[0083] The display parameters include, for example, a flow velocity range indicating the upper limit of the average velocity of the blood flow, a transmission frequency, and a color gain for adjusting the signal range for displaying color Doppler image data on the display. Figure 3 For example, the operation of the knob D1 corresponds to the change of the flow rate range, the operation of the switch SW1 corresponds to the change of the transmission frequency, and the operation of the ring D2 corresponds to the change of the color gain.

[0084] Figure 4 This is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processing circuit that executes the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment. The blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment is a process of automatically transitioning from the currently executed blood flow image mode to another blood flow image mode (recommended blood flow image mode). Figure 4 The blood flow image mode switching process shown is started, for example, when a user executes an arbitrary blood flow image mode.

[0085] (Step ST110)

[0086] When the blood flow image mode transition process is started, the processing circuit 180 executes the acquisition function 184. When the acquisition function 184 is executed, the processing circuit 180 accepts the user's change of the parameters related to the display of the image (display parameters). At this time, the user changes the display parameters of the ultrasonic image displayed on the display, for example, changes at least one of the flow velocity range, the transmission frequency, and the color gain.

[0087] (Step ST120)

[0088] After receiving the change of the display parameter from the user, the processing circuit 180 executes the determination function 185. When executing the determination function 185, the processing circuit 180 determines whether the changed parameter satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0089] For example, the processing circuit 180 determines whether the changed value of the display parameter is greater than a threshold value. If the display parameter satisfies the specified conditions (the changed value is greater than the threshold value), the process proceeds to step ST130, and if the display parameter does not satisfy the specified conditions (the changed value is less than the threshold value), the process returns to step ST110.

[0090] (Step ST130)

[0091] After determining that the display parameters satisfy the prescribed conditions, the processing circuit 180 executes the transition control function 186. When the transition control function 186 is executed, the processing circuit 180 transitions to the blood flow image mode recommended based on the changed parameters. At this time, the recommended blood flow image mode is associated with the changed parameters. After step ST130, the processing ends. In addition, after step ST130, the process may return to step ST110.

[0092] In addition, when the mode is transferred to the recommended blood flow imaging mode in step ST130, the processing circuit 180 may utilize the display control function 187 to display on the display: a display for notifying the user that the mode is to be transferred and a display for notifying the user that the mode has been transferred.

[0093] Figure 5 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a display image including a display example for notifying a transition to a recommended blood flow imaging mode in the first embodiment. Figure 5 , a display image 1031A displayed on the output device 103 as a display is shown. The display image 1031A includes an ultrasonic image and a notification bar 1032A displayed on the ultrasonic image. In the notification bar 1032A, for example, a character string "Transfer to the recommended blood flow imaging mode" is displayed. In addition, the notification bar 1032A is displayed at a position that does not overlap with the ROI on the ultrasonic image.

[0094] Figure 6 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a display image including a display example showing that the display has been switched to the recommended blood flow image mode in the first embodiment. Figure 6 , a display image 1031B displayed on the output device 103 as a display is shown. The display image 1031B includes an ultrasonic image and a notification bar 1032B displayed on the ultrasonic image. In the notification bar 1032B, for example, a character string "recommended mode" is displayed. In addition, the notification bar 1032B is displayed at a position that does not overlap with the ROI on the ultrasonic image, for example.

[0095] Figure 7 2 is a diagram for explaining the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment. Figure 7In the embodiment, the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​may be associated with the display parameter, the first blood flow image mode M1 may be associated with the display parameter, or both.

[0096] For example, when the current blood flow image mode is the first blood flow image mode M1 and the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​is associated with the display parameter, the processing circuit 180 uses the change of the display parameter to be above the threshold as an opportunity to transfer from the first blood flow image mode M1 to the second blood flow image mode M2. That is, when the display parameter is above the threshold, the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​is recommended instead of the first blood flow image mode M1.

[0097] In addition, for example, when the current blood flow image mode is the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​and the first blood flow image mode M1 is associated with the display parameter, the processing circuit 180 uses the change of the display parameter to be less than the threshold as an opportunity to transfer from the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​to the first blood flow image mode M1. That is, when the display parameter is less than the threshold, the first blood flow image mode M1 is recommended instead of the second blood flow image mode M2.

[0098] In addition, for example, when both are associated with display parameters, if the display parameter is above the threshold, the processing circuit 180 transfers from the first blood flow image mode M1 to the second blood flow image mode M2, and if the display parameter is less than the threshold, the processing circuit 180 transfers from the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​to the first blood flow image mode M1. At this time, when the display parameter is above the threshold, the second blood flow image mode M2 ​​is recommended instead of the first blood flow image mode M1, and when the display parameter is less than the threshold, the first blood flow image mode M1 is recommended instead of the second blood flow image mode M2.

[0099] Figure 8 1 is a diagram for explaining a first specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment. Figure 8 Specifically, when the current blood flow image mode is the first blood flow image mode M1A, the processing circuit 180, for example, uses the change of the flow velocity range to less than 10 cm / s as an opportunity to transfer from the first blood flow image mode M1A to the low flow velocity blood flow image mode M2A.

[0100] In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also transfer from the low flow rate blood flow image mode M2A to the original first blood flow image mode M1A in the low flow rate blood flow image mode M2A after the transfer, taking the change of the flow rate range to more than 10 cm / s as an opportunity. In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also transfer the mode based on the pulse repetition frequency (PulseRepititionFrequency) changed according to the flow rate range. That is, the processing circuit 180 may also compare the PRF changed by changing the flow rate range with the threshold.

[0101] Fig. 9 2 is a diagram for explaining a second specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment. Fig. 9 Specifically, when the current blood flow image mode is the first blood flow image mode M1B, the processing circuit 180 switches from the first blood flow image mode M1B to the high resolution blood flow image mode M2B when the transmission frequency is changed to 3.0 MHz or more.

[0102] In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also switch from the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode M2B to the original first blood flow imaging mode M1B in the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode M2B after switching, taking advantage of the fact that the transmission frequency has been changed to less than 3.0 MHz.

[0103] Fig.10 FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example of the blood flow image mode transition process in the first embodiment. Fig.10 Specifically, when the current blood flow image mode is the first blood flow image mode M1C, the processing circuit 180, for example, changes the color gain to 50 or more to transfer from the first blood flow image mode M1C to the high sensitivity blood flow image mode M2C.

[0104] In addition, the processing circuit 180 may also switch from the high-sensitivity blood flow imaging mode M2C to the original first blood flow imaging mode M1C when the color gain is changed to less than 50 in the high-sensitivity blood flow imaging mode M2C.

[0105] In addition, in the above Figures 8 to 10 In the specific example of , the first blood flow image pattern is not particularly limited. However, the first blood flow image pattern may also be associated with the transferred blood flow image pattern.

[0106] As described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the first embodiment obtains a change in display parameters related to display of an image based on the first blood flow imaging mode during execution of the first blood flow imaging mode for displaying a blood flow signal obtained by the ultrasonic probe, and determines whether the changed display parameters are more suitable for the second blood flow imaging mode having an imaging mode different from that of the first blood flow imaging mode than the first blood flow imaging mode. Then, when the changed display parameters are more suitable for the second blood flow imaging mode than the first blood flow imaging mode, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus shifts from the first blood flow imaging mode to the second blood flow imaging mode.

[0107] Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment can easily perform appropriate distinction and use of blood flow images by switching to the recommended blood flow image mode in response to the user's operation.

[0108] Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment can display information indicating a transition from the first blood flow image mode to the second blood flow image mode, thereby enabling the user to recognize the transition to another mode.

[0109] Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment can display information indicating that the mode has shifted from the first blood flow image mode to the second blood flow image mode, thereby enabling the user to recognize that the mode has shifted to another mode.

[0110] (Application example of first embodiment)

[0111] In the first embodiment, the case where the blood flow image mode is automatically switched is described. On the other hand, in the application example of the first embodiment, the case where the blood flow image mode is switched according to the switching instruction of the user is described.

[0112] Fig.11 This is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a processing circuit for executing a blood flow image mode transfer process in an application example of the first embodiment. The blood flow image mode transfer process in the application example of the first embodiment refers to a process of prompting a user to transfer from a currently executed blood flow image mode to another blood flow image mode (recommended blood flow image mode) and performing the transfer according to the user's instructions. Fig.11 The blood flow image mode transition process shown is started, for example, when the user executes an arbitrary blood flow image mode. In addition, since step ST210 and step ST220 are respectively the same as the above-mentioned step ST110 and step ST120, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0113] (Step ST230)

[0114] After determining that the display parameters satisfy the predetermined conditions, the processing circuit 180 executes the display control function 187. When executing the display control function 187, the processing circuit 180 prompts the user to switch to the blood flow image mode recommended based on the changed parameters. At this time, the recommended blood flow image mode is associated with the changed parameters.

[0115] There are two methods for prompting the user to switch to the recommended blood flow imaging mode. The first method is to display a message to prompt the user to switch to the recommended blood flow imaging mode, and to select a software button on the touch panel screen when the user switches to the recommended blood flow imaging mode. The second method is to display the switch to the recommended blood flow imaging mode together with the option.

[0116] Fig.12 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a display image including a display example for prompting a transition to a recommended blood flow image mode in an application example of the first embodiment. Fig.12 , a display image 1031C displayed on the output device 103 as a display is shown. The display image 1031C includes an ultrasonic image and a notification bar 1032C displayed on the ultrasonic image. In the notification bar 1032C, for example, a character string "There is a recommended blood flow imaging mode" is displayed. In addition, the notification bar 1032C is displayed at a position that does not overlap with the ROI on the ultrasonic image.

[0117] Fig.13 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a display image of a touch panel including a software button for switching to a recommended blood flow imaging mode in an application example of the first embodiment. Fig.13 A software button SB2 for switching to a recommended blood flow image mode is displayed on the touch panel 1021A. In order to prompt the user to select, for example, a character string "recommended mode" is displayed on the software button SB2. When the user selects the software button SB2, the mode switches to the recommended blood flow image mode according to the user's selection as a switching instruction. In addition, in order to prompt the user to select, the display color of the software button SB2 may be different from that of other buttons, or the software button SB2 may be made to flash.

[0118] Fig.14 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a display image including a display example and options for prompting a transition to a recommended blood flow image mode in an application example of the first embodiment. Fig.14, a display image 1031D displayed on the output device 103 as a display is shown. The display image 1031D includes an ultrasonic image and a notification bar 1032D displayed on the ultrasonic image. In the notification bar 1032D, for example, a character string "Transfer to the recommended blood flow imaging mode?", a software button SB3, and a software button SB4 are displayed. The software button SB3 and the software button SB4 display "Yes" and "No", respectively. If the user selects "Yes" on the software button SB3, the blood flow imaging mode recommended as a transfer instruction is transferred. If the user selects "No", the current blood flow imaging mode is maintained as it is without transfer.

[0119] (Step ST240)

[0120] After prompting the user to switch to the recommended blood flow imaging mode, the processing circuit 180 waits for a switch instruction from the user. If a switch instruction from the user is received, the process proceeds to step ST250, and if no switch instruction from the user is received or an instruction not to switch is received, the process ends.

[0121] (Step ST250)

[0122] After receiving the transition instruction from the user, the processing circuit 180 executes the transition control function 186. When the transition control function 186 is executed, the processing circuit 180 transitions to the recommended blood flow imaging mode. After step ST250, the processing ends. In addition, after step ST250, the process may return to step ST210.

[0123] In addition, when the recommended blood flow image mode is transferred in step ST250, the processing circuit 180 can also use the display control function 187 to display the following on the display, namely: a display for notifying the user that the transfer is to be made and a display for notifying the user that the transfer has been made. This display is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 same.

[0124] As described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the application example of the first embodiment obtains a change in display parameters related to display of an image based on the first blood flow imaging mode during execution of the first blood flow imaging mode for displaying a blood flow signal obtained by the ultrasonic probe, and determines whether the changed display parameters are more suitable for the second blood flow imaging mode having an imaging mode different from that of the first blood flow imaging mode than the first blood flow imaging mode. Then, if the changed display parameters are more suitable for the second blood flow imaging mode than the first blood flow imaging mode, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus displays information recommending the second blood flow imaging mode.

[0125] Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the application example of the first embodiment can easily perform appropriate classification and use of blood flow images by presenting a recommended blood flow image mode in response to a user's operation.

[0126] In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the application example of the first embodiment can display information on whether to transfer to the second blood flow imaging mode. Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can transfer from the first blood flow imaging mode to the second blood flow imaging mode when there is a transfer instruction. Thus, the user can choose whether to transfer to another mode after knowing that the user can transfer to another mode.

[0127] Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the application example of the first embodiment can display information indicating that the mode has shifted from the first blood flow image mode to the second blood flow image mode, thereby enabling the user to recognize that the mode has shifted to another mode.

[0128] (Second Embodiment)

[0129] In the first embodiment and the application example of the first embodiment, the transition between blood flow image modes is described. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the transition between blood flow image modes within the same blood flow image mode is described.

[0130] In the first embodiment and the application example of the first embodiment, a blood flow image mode is associated with a blood flow image method. For example, a blood flow image mode for velocity display is associated with a blood flow image method for velocity display, and a blood flow image mode for energy display is associated with a blood flow image method for energy display. The same is true for other blood flow image modes.

[0131] On the other hand, in the second embodiment, a plurality of blood flow imaging modes with different imaging modes are included in one blood flow imaging mode. Specifically, for example, a blood flow imaging mode for velocity display and a blood flow imaging mode for energy display are included in a specific blood flow imaging mode, and a blood flow imaging mode for low flow velocity and a high-resolution blood flow imaging mode are included in another specific blood flow imaging mode.

[0132] The blood flow imaging mode is defined by the scanning protocol and the signal processing. Therefore, at least one of the scanning protocol and the signal processing is different between different blood flow imaging modes. Specifically, the driving signal for ultrasonic transmission, the ultrasonic scanning method, the wall filter method, the display image processing method, and the signal processing method are different for each blood flow imaging mode.

[0133] The driving signal for ultrasonic transmission specifies the frequency and output intensity of the ultrasonic wave used in transmission. For example, if the blood flow imaging mode is used for energy display, the driving signal is set to be low frequency and narrow band, and if the blood flow imaging mode is used for low flow velocity, the driving signal is set to be high frequency and wide band.

[0134] The ultrasonic scanning method defines ultrasonic scanning timing, etc. For example, when acquiring background B-mode image data and color Doppler image data within the ROI, the scanning timing is set so that the acquisition frequency of B-mode image data is reduced in order to give priority to the frame rate of color Doppler image data.

[0135] The wall filter method specifies the range of application of the wall filter, etc. The wall filter is the same as the MTI filter described above. For example, if the blood flow imaging method is used for velocity display, a filter is set to selectively display fast-moving blood flow and cut off slow-moving blood flow signals.

[0136] The display image processing method specifies filters etc. to be applied to the display image. For example, in the case of a blood flow imaging method for energy display, a smoothing filter etc. is set for the purpose of removing noise.

[0137] The signal processing method specifies the processing of the acquired ultrasonic signal, etc. For example, in the case of a low-velocity blood flow imaging method, a process is set to analyze the motion characteristics of body tissues to separate low-velocity blood flows that overlap with the motion of body tissues.

[0138] Fig.15 This is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processing circuit that executes the blood flow image mode switching process in the second embodiment. The blood flow image mode switching process is a process of automatically switching (shifting) from the currently executed blood flow image mode to another blood flow image mode. Fig.15 The blood flow image mode switching process shown is started, for example, when a user executes a specific blood flow image mode. In addition, since step ST310 and step ST320 are respectively the same as the above-mentioned step ST110 and step ST120, their description is omitted.

[0139] (Step ST330)

[0140] After determining that the display parameters satisfy the prescribed conditions, the processing circuit 180 executes the transfer control function 186. When the transfer control function 186 is executed, the processing circuit 180 transfers to another blood flow image mode based on the changed parameters. At this time, the transferred blood flow image mode is associated with the changed parameters and the current blood flow image mode. After step ST330, the processing ends. In addition, after step ST330, the process may also return to step ST310.

[0141] In addition, when the mode is transferred to another blood flow imaging mode in step ST330, the processing circuit 180 may utilize the display control function 187 to display the following on the display, namely: a display for notifying the user that the mode is to be transferred, and a display for notifying the user that the mode has been transferred.

[0142] In addition, after the determination in step ST330, the processing circuit 180 may also prompt a transition to another blood flow imaging method based on the changed parameters using the display control function 187. The method of prompting the transition is the same as in the application example of the first embodiment, and a display may be made to prompt the transition, or the transition may be displayed together with the option.

[0143] Fig.16 2 is a diagram for explaining the blood flow image mode transfer process in the second embodiment. Fig.16 In the specific blood flow imaging mode M3, a correspondence is established between the first blood flow imaging mode, the second blood flow imaging mode and the display parameters.

[0144] For example, when the first blood flow image mode is used as the current blood flow image mode for display, the processing circuit 180 uses the change of the display parameter to be above the threshold as an opportunity to transfer from the first blood flow image mode to the second blood flow image mode. In addition, for example, when the second blood flow image mode is used as the current blood flow image mode for display, the processing circuit 180 uses the change of the display parameter to be less than the threshold as an opportunity to transfer from the second blood flow image mode to the first blood flow image mode. In addition, the display parameter may be multiple.

[0145] Fig.17 2 is a diagram for explaining a first specific example of the blood flow image mode transfer process in the second embodiment. Fig.17 In the figure, it is shown that the first blood flow imaging mode, the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode, and the flow velocity range establish a corresponding blood flow imaging mode M3A. Specifically, when the first blood flow imaging mode is used as the current blood flow imaging mode for display, the processing circuit 180, for example, takes the change of the flow velocity range to less than 10 cm / s as an opportunity to transfer from the first blood flow imaging mode to the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode. In addition, in the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode after the transfer, the processing circuit 180 takes the change of the flow velocity range to more than 10 cm / s as an opportunity to transfer from the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode to the first blood flow imaging mode.

[0146] Fig.18 2 is a diagram for explaining a second specific example of the blood flow image mode transfer process in the second embodiment. Fig.18, it is shown that the first blood flow imaging mode, the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode, and the transmission frequency have been established in correspondence with the blood flow imaging mode M3B. Specifically, when the first blood flow imaging mode is used as the current blood flow imaging mode for display, the processing circuit 180, for example, switches from the first blood flow imaging mode to the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode when the transmission frequency has been changed to 3.0 MHz or more. In addition, in the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode after the switch, the processing circuit 180 switches from the high-resolution blood flow imaging mode to the first blood flow imaging mode when the transmission frequency has been changed to less than 3.0 MHz.

[0147] Fig.19 FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a third specific example of the blood flow image mode transfer process in the second embodiment. Fig.19 , it is shown that the first blood flow image mode, the high-sensitivity blood flow image mode, and the color gain establish corresponding blood flow image mode M3C. Specifically, when the first blood flow image mode is used as the current blood flow image mode for display, the processing circuit 180, for example, changes the color gain to 50 or more as an opportunity to transfer from the first blood flow image mode to the high-sensitivity blood flow image mode. In addition, in the high-sensitivity blood flow image mode after the transfer, the processing circuit 180 transfers from the high-sensitivity blood flow image mode to the first blood flow image mode as an opportunity to change the color gain to less than 50.

[0148] In addition, in the above Figures 17 to 19 In the specific example, the first blood flow imaging method is not particularly limited.

[0149] As described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the second embodiment is a blood flow imaging mode for displaying blood flow signals obtained by an ultrasonic probe, and the blood flow imaging mode includes a first blood flow imaging mode and a second blood flow imaging mode in which at least one of the scanning protocol and signal processing is different. During the execution of the first blood flow imaging mode, a change in display parameters related to the display of an image based on the first blood flow imaging mode is obtained, and it is determined whether the changed display parameters meet the prescribed conditions. Then, when the prescribed conditions are met, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus switches from the first blood flow imaging mode to the second blood flow imaging mode.

[0150] Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment can easily perform appropriate distinction and use of blood flow images by switching between a plurality of blood flow image modes in accordance with user operations.

[0151] Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment can display information indicating a shift to the second blood flow imaging method, thereby enabling the user to recognize the shift to another blood flow imaging method.

[0152] In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the second embodiment can display information on whether to transfer to the second blood flow imaging mode. Then, when there is a transfer instruction, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can transfer from the first blood flow imaging mode to the second blood flow imaging mode. Thus, the user can choose whether to transfer to another mode after knowing that the user can transfer to another mode.

[0153] Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment can display information indicating that the mode has been switched to the second blood flow imaging mode, so that the user can recognize that the mode has been switched to another mode.

[0154] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, blood flow images can be easily and appropriately distinguished and used.

[0155] Several embodiments have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations of the embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope or spirit of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, comprising a blood flow imaging mode for displaying a two-dimensional blood flow image based on a blood flow signal obtained by an ultrasonic probe, the blood flow imaging mode for displaying the two-dimensional blood flow image comprising a first blood flow imaging mode having a different scanning protocol and signal processing, a low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode corresponding to the depiction of a low flow velocity blood flow, a velocity display blood flow imaging mode, and an energy display blood flow imaging mode, The ultrasonic diagnostic device comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires the flow velocity range changed by the user during execution of the first blood flow imaging mode in the blood flow imaging mode for displaying the two-dimensional blood flow image; a determination unit that compares the changed flow velocity range with a threshold value to determine whether the changed flow velocity range is smaller than the threshold value; and The transfer control unit transfers from the first blood flow imaging mode in the blood flow imaging mode for displaying the two-dimensional blood flow image to the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode in the blood flow imaging mode for displaying the two-dimensional blood flow image when the flow velocity range after the change is smaller than the threshold value, and in the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode, performs a process of analyzing the motion characteristics of body tissue to separate the low flow velocity blood flow overlapping with the motion of the body tissue and the motion of the body tissue, The transfer control unit transfers from the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode in the blood flow imaging mode for displaying the two-dimensional blood flow image to the first blood flow imaging mode in the blood flow imaging mode for displaying the two-dimensional blood flow image when the flow velocity range is changed to be above the threshold value in the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode after the transfer.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes a display control unit configured to display information indicating that the first blood flow imaging method is to be switched to the low-flow-velocity blood flow imaging method as a character string.

3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes a display control unit configured to display information indicating whether to switch from the first blood flow imaging mode to the low flow velocity blood flow imaging mode as a character string.

4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes a display control unit configured to display information indicating that the first blood flow imaging mode has been switched to the low-flow-velocity blood flow imaging mode as a character string.

5. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, The character string is displayed at a position that does not overlap with the region of interest on the ultrasonic image.

6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The acquisition unit receives a change in the threshold value, The determination unit determines whether the changed flow velocity range is smaller than the changed threshold value by comparing the changed flow velocity range with the changed threshold value.

Images