Elasticity detection probe, elasticity detection device and method

Abstract

The present invention discloses an elasticity detection probe, an elasticity detection device and a method. The elasticity detection probe includes: an ultrasonic transducer; a sound-permeable structure, which is arranged at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer; a protrusion is arranged on the top of the sound-permeable structure, and the protrusion is used to vibrate and generate shear waves; a deformable sound-permeable component, which is symmetrically arranged on the sound-permeable structure. During the two-dimensional imaging process, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel. The present invention arranges a deformable sound-permeable component on the side of the sound-permeable structure. During the two-dimensional imaging process, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an extension structure. The extension structure strengthens the full contact with the tissue skin, can form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel, and improves the two-dimensional imaging effect. When performing transient elastic imaging, the extension structure formed by the deformable sound-permeable component is restored, which can avoid affecting the high-quality transient elastic imaging detection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of medical devices, and in particular to an elasticity detection probe, an elasticity detection device and a method. Background Art

[0002] The principle of transient elastography is to determine the hardness of the liver by measuring the propagation speed of low-frequency shear waves in liver tissue fibers, thereby evaluating the degree of liver fibrosis. The shear wave in transient elastography uses the mechanical vibration of the probe itself to act on the surface of the detection target, stimulate shear waves inside the detection target, and track and detect the propagation of shear waves along the central axis area directly below the probe. Studies have shown that when the size of the probe used to stimulate the shear wave becomes larger, the stimulated shear wave will have a certain degree of diffraction. When the shear wave is used for elastic detection, the shear wave velocity obtained will deviate from the true value, resulting in deviations or errors in the test results. Conventional transient elastography has the contradictory problem that image guidance and elastic detection cannot be achieved at the same time.

[0003] In order to solve the contradiction between elastic detection and image guidance functions in transient elastic imaging, the relevant patent proposes to use a solution in which an acoustic permeable structure is set at the front end of a two-dimensional imaging ultrasonic transducer. The acoustic permeable structure is set at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer, and the acoustic permeable structure is directly or indirectly in contact with the tissue skin, and acts on the tissue through mechanical vibration to excite shear waves inside the tissue. In order to improve the quality of transient elastic imaging, the existing solution sets a protruding convex portion on the acoustic permeable structure, so that the interface size of the convex portion in the acoustic permeable structure used for mechanical vibration will not be too large, thereby reducing the diffraction effect. However, although the design in which the acoustic permeable structure with a convex portion is set at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer can realize imaging using a multi-element ultrasonic transducer, the imaging range is still limited by the size of the acoustic permeable structure placed at its front end for vibration, resulting in poor two-dimensional imaging effect.

[0004] Therefore, the prior art still needs to be improved and developed. Summary of the invention

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned deficiencies in the prior art, an object of the present invention is to provide an elastic detection probe, an elastic detection device and a method to solve the problem that a sound-permeable structure with a protrusion is arranged at the front end of an ultrasonic transducer, resulting in poor two-dimensional imaging effect.

[0006] The technical solution of the present invention is as follows:

[0007] An elastic detection probe comprises: an ultrasonic transducer; a sound-permeable structure, wherein the sound-permeable structure is arranged at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer; a protrusion is arranged on the top of the sound-permeable structure, and the protrusion is used to vibrate to generate shear waves; and a deformable sound-permeable component, wherein the deformable sound-permeable component is symmetrically arranged on the sound-permeable structure, and during two-dimensional imaging, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel.

[0008] The present invention further provides that the deformable sound-permeable component is a deformable cavity, and a sound-permeable medium is provided in the deformable cavity.

[0009] The present invention further provides that the deformable cavity is located on two symmetrical sides or around the sound-permeable structure.

[0010] The present invention further provides that the deformable cavity is composed of a first elastic membrane and a surface of the sound-permeable structure.

[0011] The present invention further provides that the deformable cavity is composed of an elastic bladder.

[0012] The present invention is further provided that a groove is provided at the sound-permeable structure corresponding to the deformable cavity.

[0013] The present invention further provides that the deformable cavity runs through the sound-permeable structure.

[0014] The present invention further provides that at least two ends of the deformable cavity are formed by a second elastic membrane.

[0015] The present invention further provides that the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer constitutes the lower surface of the deformable cavity, or the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer is in contact with the lower surface of the deformable cavity.

[0016] The present invention further provides that the sound-permeable medium is a sound-permeable liquid.

[0017] The present invention is further provided that a support frame is provided on the side of the deformable cavity.

[0018] The present invention further provides that the angles between the two outer cut surfaces in the surface width direction of the protrusion and the central axis of the protrusion are 0-30 degrees.

[0019] The present invention further provides that the width of the surface of the protrusion is 5-15 mm.

[0020] The present invention further provides that the protrusion is columnar or truncated cone-shaped.

[0021] The present invention further provides that the length of the end surface of the protrusion is less than twice the width of the end surface of the protrusion.

[0022] The present invention further provides that curved structures are provided on both sides of the sound-permeable structure, the curved structures extend from the end faces of the raised portions to the bottom of the sound-permeable structure, and the deformable sound-permeable component is provided on the curved structures.

[0023] The present invention is further configured and characterized in that the ultrasonic transducer includes a first array and a second array located on both sides of the first array, the protrusion is arranged directly above the first array, and the central axis of the protrusion coincides with the central axis of the first array.

[0024] The present invention further provides that, during transient elastic imaging, at least part of the array elements of the first array are used to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to track and detect shear waves.

[0025] The present invention further provides that the elastic detection probe also includes a first driver, and the first driver is used to drive the sound-permeable structure.

[0026] The present invention further provides that the sound-permeable structure moves independently or the sound-permeable structure moves integrally with the ultrasonic transducer.

[0027] An elasticity detection device comprises the elasticity detection probe as described above, and also comprises a conveying component, wherein the conveying component is provided with a sound-permeable medium, and the conveying component is used to convey the sound-permeable medium into the deformable sound-permeable component.

[0028] The present invention is further provided that the conveying assembly comprises:

[0029] A storage tank, wherein the sound-permeable medium is disposed in the storage tank, and at least a portion of the surface of the storage tank can be pressed and deformed;

[0030] A conduit, one end of which is connected to the deformable sound-permeable component, and the other end of which is connected to the storage tank.

[0031] The present invention further provides that the elasticity detection device also includes: a shell; the storage tank is located in the shell, the shell is provided with an opening, and the extrudable and deformable surface of the storage tank corresponds to the opening.

[0032] The present invention further provides that the elasticity detection device further includes: a pressing portion; the pressing portion passes through the shell and abuts against the storage tank.

[0033] The present invention is further provided that the conveying assembly comprises:

[0034] a second drive rod;

[0035] a storage tank, wherein the sound-permeable medium is disposed in the storage tank;

[0036] a first piston, the first piston being disposed in the storage tank and connected to the second driving rod;

[0037] A conduit, one end of which is connected to the deformable sound-permeable component, and the other end of which is connected to the storage tank.

[0038] The present invention is further arranged that the conveying assembly further comprises:

[0039] A second driver; the second driving rod is connected to the second driver.

[0040] The present invention further provides that the elastic detection device also includes: a shell and a mounting portion; the mounting portion is arranged at the bottom of the sound-permeable structure; wherein the mounting portion is hollow and forms a cavity with the sound-permeable structure, the ultrasonic transducer is accommodated in the cavity and abuts against the sound-permeable structure; the mounting portion is arranged on the shell through an elastic medium.

[0041] An elasticity detection method, applied to the elasticity detection device described above, comprising:

[0042] Driving the deformable sound-permeable component to swell on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal path on both sides of the sound-permeable structure;

[0043] Performing two-dimensional imaging with the first array and the second array of the ultrasonic transducer to obtain a two-dimensional image, and locking the position where transient elastic imaging is required to obtain the detection position of the target to be detected with the two-dimensional image;

[0044] driving the deformable sound-permeable component to return to its original position so as to highlight the protruding portion of the sound-permeable structure;

[0045] driving the protrusion to vibrate so as to generate shear waves inside the target to be detected;

[0046] Tracking and detecting the shear wave by exciting at least part of the array elements in the first array of the ultrasonic transducer to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals;

[0047] Shear wave velocity information reflecting tissue hardness or ultrasonic attenuation information reflecting liver fat level is obtained according to the ultrasonic signal received by the first array.

[0048] The present invention provides an elasticity detection probe, an elasticity detection device and a method, wherein the elasticity detection probe includes: an ultrasonic transducer; a sound-permeable structure, wherein the sound-permeable structure is arranged at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer; a protrusion is arranged on the top of the sound-permeable structure, wherein the protrusion is used to vibrate and generate shear waves; and a deformable sound-permeable component, wherein the deformable sound-permeable component is symmetrically arranged on the sound-permeable structure, and during two-dimensional imaging, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel. The present invention arranges a deformable sound-permeable component on the side of the sound-permeable structure, and during two-dimensional imaging, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an extension structure, wherein the extension structure strengthens the full contact with the tissue skin, can form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel, and improves the two-dimensional imaging effect. When performing transient elastic imaging, the extension structure formed by the deformable sound-permeable component is restored, which can avoid affecting the high-quality transient elastic imaging detection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary personnel in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0050] Figure 1 The internal structure of the elastic detection probe in the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 1 .

[0051] Figure 2 The internal structure of the elastic detection probe in the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 2 .

[0052] Figure 3 It is a schematic structural diagram of the first elastic membrane and the sound-permeable structure in the present invention.

[0053] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic bladder and the sound-permeable structure in the present invention.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a deformable cavity penetrating a sound-permeable structure in the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0055] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a deformable cavity penetrating a sound-permeable structure in the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a deformable cavity penetrating a sound-permeable structure in the present invention. Figure 3 .

[0057] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the support frame and the first sound-permeable membrane in the present invention.

[0058] Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram of the state of the support frame when the first sound-permeable membrane in the present invention is bulged.

[0059] Fig.10 It is a structural schematic diagram of the sound-permeable structure and the mounting part in the present invention.

[0060] Fig.11 It is a partial schematic diagram of the sound-permeable structure of the present invention.

[0061] Fig.12 It is a schematic structural diagram of the raised portion in the present invention.

[0062] Fig.13 It is a structural schematic diagram of the sound-permeable structure and the curved surface structure in the present invention.

[0063] Fig.14 It is a schematic structural diagram of the curved surface structure and the first sound-transmitting membrane in the present invention.

[0064] Fig.15 It is a schematic diagram of imaging of the acoustically transparent structure with a curved surface structure in the present invention.

[0065] Fig.16 It is a schematic diagram of the array distribution of the ultrasonic transducer in the present invention.

[0066] Fig.17 It is a schematic diagram of imaging of the sound-permeable structure in which the first sound-permeable membrane is arranged on the curved structure in the present invention.

[0067] Fig.18 The structure of the conveying assembly in one embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 1 .

[0068] Fig.19 The structure of the conveying assembly in one embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 2 .

[0069] Fig. 20 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a conveying assembly in another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0070] Fig.21 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the conveying component in another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0071] Fig. 22 It is a structural schematic diagram of a conveying component in yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Fig.23 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the elasticity detection device in the present invention.

[0073] Fig.24 It is a schematic flow chart of an elasticity detection method in the present invention.

[0074] The marks in the accompanying drawings are: 1. ultrasonic transducer; 11. first array; 12. second array; 2. sound-permeable structure; 21. raised portion; 22. mounting portion; 3. first elastic membrane; 4. elastic sac; 5. slot; 6. second elastic membrane; 7. support frame; 8. epitaxial section; 9. curved surface structure; 10. conveying assembly; 101. storage tank; 1011. extrudable deformable surface; 102. catheter; 103. second drive rod; 104. first piston; 105. second drive; 13. shell; 14. pressing portion; 141. pressing plate; 142. push rod; 143. spring; 144. second piston; 15. elastic medium; 16. pedal; 17. skin tissue. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] The present invention provides an elasticity detection probe, an elasticity detection device and a method. In order to make the purpose, technical solution and effect of the present invention clearer and more specific, the present invention is further described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention and are not used to limit the present invention.

[0076] In the embodiments and the scope of the patent application, unless the text specifically defines the article, "a", "an", "the" and "the" may also include plural forms. If there are descriptions involving "first", "second", etc. in the embodiments of the present invention, the descriptions of "first", "second", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features.

[0077] It should be further understood that the term "comprising" used in the specification of the present invention refers to the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. It should be understood that when we refer to an element as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there can be intermediate elements. In addition, the "connection" or "coupling" used herein can include wireless connection or wireless coupling. The term "and / or" used herein includes all or any unit and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0078] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art in the art to which the present invention belongs. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in general dictionaries should be understood to have meanings consistent with the meanings in the context of the prior art, and will not be interpreted with idealized or overly formal meanings unless specifically defined as herein.

[0079] In addition, the technical solutions between the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that ordinary technicians in the field can implement it. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be deemed that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by the present invention.

[0080] Please also see Figures 1 to 17 , the present invention provides a preferred embodiment of an elastic detection probe.

[0081] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the elastic detection probe provided by the present invention comprises: an ultrasonic transducer 1, a sound-permeable structure 2 and a deformable sound-permeable component. The sound-permeable structure 2 is arranged at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer 1, wherein a protrusion 21 is arranged on the top of the sound-permeable structure 2, and the protrusion 21 is used to vibrate and generate shear waves; the deformable sound-permeable component is symmetrically arranged on the sound-permeable structure 2, and during the two-dimensional imaging process, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure 2 to form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel.

[0082] Specifically, the ultrasonic transducer 1 is a multi-element ultrasonic transducer, and the sound-permeable structure 2 replaces the vibration of the probe itself in transient elastic imaging to generate shear waves. The multi-element ultrasonic transducer that can realize two-dimensional imaging function is placed behind the sound-permeable structure 2, so that the ultrasonic signal excited by the ultrasonic transducer 1 can penetrate the sound-permeable structure 2 to complete signal transmission and reception.

[0083] The sound-permeable structure 2 is made of a material that can be penetrated by ultrasonic signals, and the ultrasonic signal emitted by the multi-element ultrasonic transducer placed under the sound-permeable structure 2 can penetrate the sound-permeable structure 2. The sound-permeable structure 2 is arranged at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer 1, and the two-dimensional imaging section of the ultrasonic transducer 1 is tangent to the sound-permeable structure 2, wherein the sound-permeable structure 2 has a protrusion 21, and the protrusion 21 is directly or indirectly in contact with the tissue skin. The protrusion 21 is used to perform mechanical vibration on the surface of the tissue skin to be tested and generate shear waves inside the tissue. The protrusion 21 replaces the ultrasonic transducer 1 itself in the conventional transient elastic detection to vibrate and generate shear waves. The shape of the protrusion 21 can be cylindrical, or a conical terrace structure, or other structures such as an elliptical structure, a truncated cone structure, etc. The protrusion 21 extends downward to form a cover on the surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 placed below.

[0084] The deformable sound-permeable component has a certain elasticity, can be stretched and deformed, and also has sound-permeable characteristics, that is, the ultrasonic signal can penetrate the deformable sound-permeable component. During the two-dimensional imaging process, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure 2 to form an extended structure, which strengthens the full contact with the tissue skin, can form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel, and improves the two-dimensional imaging effect. When performing transient elastic imaging, the extended structure formed by the deformable sound-permeable component is restored, which can avoid affecting the high-quality transient elastic imaging detection.

[0085] It can be seen that the present invention arranges the deformable sound-permeable component on the side of the sound-permeable structure 2. When two-dimensional imaging is performed, the deformable sound-permeable component forms an extension structure, which strengthens the full contact with the tissue and skin, forms a two-dimensional ultrasonic signal propagation channel, and improves the two-dimensional imaging effect. When transient elastic imaging is performed, the extension structure formed by the deformable sound-permeable component is restored to reduce its contact with the tissue and skin, and will not affect the high-quality transient elastic imaging detection, avoiding that the imaging range is still limited by the size of the sound-permeable structure 2 placed at its front end for vibration, and can achieve both image guidance and elasticity detection functions of transient elastic imaging.

[0086] In a further implementation of an embodiment, the deformable sound-permeable component is a deformable cavity, and a sound-permeable medium is provided in the deformable cavity.

[0087] Specifically, the sound-permeable medium refers to a medium that an ultrasonic signal can penetrate, and its form can be solid (e.g., a medium with a constant volume and a variable shape) or liquid. In one implementation, the sound-permeable medium is preferably a medium in liquid form. The expansion and contraction of the deformable cavity is controlled by whether the sound-permeable medium is filled into the deformable cavity. For example, when the sound-permeable medium is filled into the deformable cavity, the deformable cavity can be deformed or expanded, and then form an outwardly extending structure. The extended structure can strengthen the contact with the skin and avoid the existence of air gaps. The ultrasonic signal can be propagated without obstruction, and the extended structure can form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel, which is conducive to two-dimensional imaging. When the sound-permeable medium of the deformable cavity is taken out, the deformable cavity can shrink or reset. After shrinking or resetting, the protruding portion 21 in the sound-permeable structure 2 can still be maintained for vibration to generate shear waves.

[0088] See also Figures 1 to 3 In some embodiments, the deformable cavity is located on two symmetrical sides or around the sound permeable structure 2.

[0089] Specifically, when the deformable cavity is located on two symmetrical sides or four symmetrical sides of the sound transparent structure 2, the deformable cavity is composed of a first elastic membrane 3 and the surface of the sound transparent structure 2, and the first elastic membrane 3 is bonded to the two symmetrical sides or four symmetrical sides of the sound transparent structure 2.

[0090] Furthermore, a groove 5 is provided at a position corresponding to the sound-permeable structure 2 and the deformable cavity, an edge of the first elastic membrane 3 is adhered to an edge of the groove 5, and the first elastic membrane 3 and the groove 5 are not adhered in the middle, and a certain space is formed between the elastic membrane and the groove 5 for filling the sound-permeable medium.

[0091] See also Figure 4 When the deformable cavity is located on two symmetrical sides or four symmetrical sides of the sound-permeable structure 2, in other embodiments, the deformable cavity is formed by an elastic bag 4, which is directly bonded to the side of the sound-permeable structure 2, and when the elastic bag 4 is filled with a sound-permeable medium, it can expand to form an extended structure. Furthermore, a slot 5 is provided at a position corresponding to the sound-permeable structure 2 and the elastic bag 4, and the bottom surface of the elastic bag 4 is bonded to the bottom surface of the slot 5.

[0092] See also Figure 1 and Figure 4In a further implementation of an embodiment, the groove 5 extends from the end face of the protrusion 21 to the bottom of the sound-permeable structure 2, so that the outwardly extending structure formed after the elastic membrane or the elastic bag 4 is deformed or expanded can be tangent to the two-dimensional imaging surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1.

[0093] See also Figures 5 to 7 In a further implementation of an embodiment, the deformable cavity runs through the sound-permeable structure 2.

[0094] Specifically, at least two ends of the deformable cavity are formed by the second elastic membrane 6. For example, when the two ends of the deformable cavity are formed by the second elastic membrane 6, the second elastic membrane 6 is located on both sides of the sound-permeable structure 2, and the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 forms the lower surface of the deformable cavity, and the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 is directly in contact with the sound-permeable medium. Figure 5 shown.

[0095] When the three ends of the deformable cavity are formed by the second elastic membrane 6, the second elastic membrane 6 is located on the left and right sides and the upper part of the sound-permeable structure 2, and the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 constitutes the lower surface of the deformable cavity, and the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 is directly in contact with the sound-permeable medium. Figure 6 shown.

[0096] When the upper and lower surfaces and the left and right surfaces of the sound-permeable structure 2 are all formed by the second elastic membrane 6, the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 contacts the bottom surface of the deformable cavity. Figure 7 shown.

[0097] See also Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In a further implementation of an embodiment, a support frame 7 is provided on the side of the deformable cavity.

[0098] Specifically, in order to further control the shape of the deformable cavity and make the shape of the deformable cavity after expansion better meet clinical needs, a support frame 7 is combined and added on the first elastic membrane 3 or the second elastic membrane 6 of the deformable cavity. The support frame 7 has a sound-transmitting property and a certain hardness, so as to play a supporting role. Its shape can be a planar medium that is approximately rectangular, or other shapes such as an elliptical surface.

[0099] In one implementation, the support frame 7 may be attached to the first elastic film 3 or the second elastic film 6 on both sides of the protrusion 21, or may be a part of the outer wall of the deformable cavity. The support frame 7 can further control the shape of the deformable cavity after expansion due to the presence of the support frame 7.

[0100] In specific implementation, in order to allow the deformable cavity to form an approximate plane (similar to the surface of a conventional linear array probe) together with the protrusion 21 after expansion, so as to facilitate two-dimensional imaging, a support frame 7 can be pasted or added in combination near the first elastic membrane 3 or the second elastic membrane 6 near the protrusion 21. Specifically, when the deformable cavity is not filled and expanded, the support frame 7 is located on both sides of the protrusion 21, fits with the side edges of the protrusion 21, and protrudes from the protrusion 21, which is convenient for vibration to generate shear waves. When two-dimensional imaging is required, the deformable cavity is filled with an acoustically permeable liquid, and the deformable cavity begins to expand and contract. Due to the presence of the support frame 7, the upper surface of the shape of the deformable cavity after expansion can form an approximate plane (similar to the surface of a conventional linear array ultrasonic transducer 1) together with the protrusion 21, which is beneficial to two-dimensional imaging, such as Fig. 9 shown.

[0101] See also Fig.11 , see Figure 2 and Fig. 9 In a further configuration of an embodiment, the angles between the two outer cut surfaces 8 on the surface width direction d1 of the protrusion 21 and the central axis of the protrusion 21 are 0-30 degrees.

[0102] Specifically, the array direction of the array elements of the ultrasonic transducer 1 is arranged corresponding to the length direction d2 of the surface of the raised portion 21, and this arrangement facilitates two-dimensional imaging using a multi-element ultrasonic transducer. The epitaxial section 8 is located on both sides of the width direction d1 of the surface of the raised portion 21, and the epitaxial section 8 and the raised portion 21 are centrally symmetrically distributed. Among them, the angle between the epitaxial section 8 and the central axis of the raised portion 21 is 0-30°, so that during the vibration process, the portion of the raised portion 21 located between the two epitaxial sections 8 can enter the gap between the ribs without obstruction, thereby forming effective vibration. In one implementation, the angle between the epitaxial section 8 and the central axis of the raised portion 21 can be 0°.

[0103] See also Fig.12 In a further embodiment of an embodiment, the width d1 of the surface of the protrusion 21 is 5-15 mm.

[0104] Specifically, the surface of the protrusion 21 directly or indirectly acts on the surface of the detection target. Under the action of mechanical vibration, the surface s of the protrusion 21 directly and mechanically vibrates relative to the skin. In order to better generate a shear wave field suitable for transient elastic imaging detection through vibration in the intercostal space, the size d1 of the surface s of the protrusion 21 cannot be too large. The width d1 of the protrusion 21 is 5-15 mm, and the width direction corresponds to the direction of the intercostal space. Fig.12As shown. When testing a patient, the protrusion 21 is placed between the ribs. The array direction of the array elements of the ultrasonic transducer 1 is set corresponding to the length direction d2 of the surface of the protrusion 21, and this setting facilitates two-dimensional imaging using the multi-element ultrasonic transducer 1. The frequency range of the aforementioned low-frequency vibration is 0.01-10KHz, preferably, the frequency range of the low-frequency vibration is 20-300Hz, for example, 200Hz.

[0105] The mechanical vibration of the surface s of the raised portion 21 acts on the inter-rib gap. Since the position of the ribs is relatively fixed, under the force of mechanical vibration, the surface of the raised portion 21 will press the skin tissue of the inter-rib gap into the inside of the inter-rib gap. Compared with the fixed position of the ribs, an obvious fault will be formed, which is conducive to the generation of shear waves. The size d1 is set in the inter-rib gap, and its size determines the size of the fault plane, which directly has a greater impact on the generated shear wave field. The size d1 should not be too large. On the one hand, a too large size will produce a diffraction effect, which is not conducive to elasticity detection. On the other hand, it is difficult to place in the inter-rib gap, which is not conducive to elasticity detection. The size d1 is consistent with the size range of conventional transient elastic imaging probes. Usually, the three types of S, M, and XL probes are 5mm, 7mm, and 10mm respectively. The S model is suitable for children with narrow inter-rib gaps. The M model probe is used for conventional adults, and the larger XL model probe is used for obese patients.

[0106] Please refer to Fig.12 Furthermore, the length of the end surface of the protrusion 21 is less than twice the width of the end surface of the protrusion 21.

[0107] Specifically, the length of the end face of the protrusion 21, that is, the dimension parallel to the rib direction is d2, and the dimension d2 will also affect the generation of the shear wave field, but the effect on the generation of the shear wave is smaller than that of the dimension d1, because when the protrusion 21 vibrates in the direction parallel to the rib, the support of the rib is lacking, and the fault force formed is weak, so the effect on the shear wave field is small. Properly increasing the dimension d2 is conducive to the two-dimensional imaging of the multi-element ultrasonic transducer placed behind it, but at the same time, the diffraction effect caused by the oversized dimension is considered, and the relationship between the dimension d1 and the dimension d2 is: d2<2*d1.

[0108] See also Fig.10 In a further configuration of an embodiment, the protrusion 21 is columnar or truncated cone-shaped.

[0109] Specifically, the shape of the raised portion 21 is approximately cylindrical, elliptical or truncated cone, but is not limited to the above shapes. For example, it can also be a cuboid, then the shape of the surface of the raised portion 21 can be circular, elliptical, square, etc. At the same time, the surface of the raised portion 21 can also be convex or concave. In order to improve the user's comfort, generally speaking, the shape of the raised portion 21 is set to be cylindrical or truncated cone. For example, when the raised portion 21 is an elliptical column, the shape of the cross section of the raised portion 21 is an ellipse, and its end face is also an ellipse. Among them, in order to ensure the quality of transient elastic imaging detection, the vertical height between the surface of the raised portion 21 and the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 is 0.5-30mm, for example, it can be 15mm.

[0110] See also Fig.13 In a further implementation of an embodiment, curved structures 9 are provided on both sides of the sound-permeable structure 2, and the curved structures 9 extend from the end surface of the raised portion 21 to the bottom of the sound-permeable structure 2, and the deformable sound-permeable component is provided on the curved structures 9.

[0111] Specifically, curved surface structures 9 are provided on both sides where the imaging surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 intersects with the sound-permeable structure 2. The curved surface structure 9 has a concave curved surface. This design is beneficial to two-dimensional imaging to a certain extent without affecting transient elastic detection. Since the raised portion 21 is obviously protruding (obviously protruding is beneficial to transient elastic imaging), when it contacts the detected skin tissue 17, an air gap is easily formed near the periphery where the raised interface (the end face of the raised portion 21) contacts the skin tissue 17. The air gap will block the propagation of the ultrasonic signal, thereby reducing the two-dimensional imaging effect (destroying the imaging range of the ultrasonic transducer 1). Fig.15 shown.

[0112] See also Fig.14 When the deformable sound-permeable component is composed of the first elastic membrane 3 and the surface of the sound-permeable structure 2, the upper end of the first elastic membrane 3 is close to the intersection of the convex interface of the convex part 21 and the two sides. The extended structure formed by the first elastic membrane 3 can squeeze or squeeze out the air gap around the convex part 21 to form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel, such as Fig.17 shown.

[0113] As the distance from the convex interface increases, the air blocking area on the ultrasonic signal propagation path begins to increase, and the width of the elastic membrane at the midpoint position can be appropriately widened. When pressure is applied to the liquid in the cavity, it can be approximately formed as follows Fig.17The extended structure shown can form a good contact with the skin tissue 17, allowing the ultrasonic signal to propagate without obstruction, which is beneficial to two-dimensional imaging. When performing transient elastic imaging, it is necessary to reduce the contact of the extended structure of the first elastic membrane 3 with the skin tissue 17, and the extended structure needs to be retracted or cancelled, and it is only necessary to reduce the pressure of the liquid in the cavity.

[0114] See also Fig.16 In a further implementation of an embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer 1 includes a first array 11 and a second array 12 located on both sides of the first array 11, the protrusion 21 is arranged directly above the first array 11, and the central axis of the protrusion 21 coincides with the central axis of the first array 11, such as Figure 6 In the transient elastic imaging process, at least part of the array elements of the first array 11 are used to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to track and detect shear waves, so as to improve the accuracy of transient elastic detection.

[0115] In some embodiments, when the sound permeable structure 2 is set at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer 1, the elastic detection probe can realize the transient elastic imaging function while taking into account the image guidance function. When performing the detection, there are two imaging modes: one is the two-dimensional B image guidance function, through which the large blood vessels in the liver tissue and other areas that are not suitable for transient elastic imaging can be avoided, and then the best transient elastic imaging position can be selected; after the position where transient elastic imaging is required is selected, it is switched to the transient elastic imaging mode. In the two-dimensional image guidance mode, the first array 11 and the second array 12 work together to complete; in the transient elastic mode, only some or all of the array elements in the first array 11 work to complete. The first array 11 is set at the position directly below the protrusion, and the array element corresponding to the central axis of the protrusion 21 is used to track the shear wave generated by the vibration of the protrusion 21 to improve the accuracy of the shear wave velocity calculation. If the position of the elastic detection array element does not correspond to the position where the vibration generates the shear wave, then the shear wave velocity obtained by the transient elastic detection method will have a large deviation from the true value. The protrusion 21 vibrates to generate shear waves, and the shear waves are tracked using some or all of the array elements in the first array 11. When the number of excited array elements in the first array 11 is smaller, the obtained shear wave velocity can reflect the average shear wave velocity of a smaller area in the tissue corresponding to the excited array elements, and the elastic detection area is smaller but the detection sensitivity is higher; when the number of excited array elements in the first array 11 is larger, the obtained shear wave velocity can reflect the average shear wave velocity of a larger area in the tissue corresponding to the excited array elements, and the elastic detection area becomes larger but the detection sensitivity is reduced;

[0116] In other embodiments, the two-dimensional image guidance mode is used at the beginning. The ultrasonic signals emitted by the first array 11 and the second array 12 pass through the acoustic permeable structure 2 and are transmitted to the target to be detected. The ultrasonic echo signals are received by the first array 11 and the second array 12 after passing through the acoustic permeable structure 2. The received ultrasonic echo signals can form a two-dimensional image. The structural diagram of the liver can be seen through the two-dimensional imaging results, thereby guiding the operator to move the composite probe to find the best transient elastic imaging position. After the best transient elastic imaging position is determined, the transient elastic mode is turned on, and the transient elastic imaging is completed using the protrusion 21. The specific process is: the protrusion 21 is driven to perform mechanical low-frequency vibration on the surface of the target to be detected, a shear wave is formed in the target to be detected, and at least a part of the array elements in the first array 11 corresponding to the protrusion 21 are used to track and detect the shear wave in the target to be detected facing the protrusion 21 in the form of pulse-echo.

[0117] It should be noted that the position of the protrusion 21 is not limited to the center position of the ultrasonic transducer 1, but may also be at other positions of the array of ultrasonic transducers 1. In addition, the time when the array element for elasticity detection starts working may be before the protrusion 21 starts vibrating, or after the protrusion 21 starts vibrating.

[0118] In a further implementation of an embodiment, the elastic detection probe further includes a first driver, and the first driver is used to drive the sound-permeable structure 2. The sound-permeable structure 2 moves alone or the sound-permeable structure 2 moves together with the ultrasonic transducer 1.

[0119] Specifically, the protrusion 21 is used to generate shear waves inside the target medium to be detected under the drive of the first driver. The first driver (not marked in the figure) can be directly connected to the protrusion 21 through a first driving rod (not marked in the figure), and only drives the sound-permeable structure 2 (including the protrusion 21) to vibrate mechanically. At this time, the ultrasonic transducer 1 remains stationary, and the ultrasonic transducer 1 and the sound-permeable structure 2 are connected by a connecting piece. The connecting piece can be an elastic sound-permeable cavity filled with liquid. It can ensure that the sound-permeable structure 2 vibrates alone while not only maintaining the connection between the protrusion 21 and the ultrasonic transducer 1, but also ensuring that the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 1 is smoothly transmitted through the connecting piece.

[0120] When the sound-permeable structure 2 and the ultrasonic transducer 1 are directly or indirectly fixed together to form a whole, the first driver is directly connected to the ultrasonic transducer 1 through the first driving rod. Under the driving action, the ultrasonic transducer 1 and the sound-permeable structure 2 vibrate mechanically together, and the excitation of shear waves can also be achieved.

[0121] See also Figures 1 to 22In some embodiments, the present invention further provides an elasticity detection device, comprising a conveying component 10 and the elasticity detection probe described above. The conveying component 10 is provided with a sound-permeable medium, and the conveying component 10 is used to convey the sound-permeable medium to the deformable sound-permeable component.

[0122] In some embodiments, the conveying component 10 includes: a tank 101 and a conduit 102, the sound-permeable medium is arranged in the tank 101, at least a portion of the surface of the tank 101 can be pressed and deformed, one end of the conduit 102 is connected to the deformable sound-permeable component, and the other end of the conduit 102 is connected to the tank 101.

[0123] Specifically, the sound-permeable medium is stored in the storage tank 101. By pressing the extrudable and deformable surface 1011 of the storage tank 101, the sound-permeable medium in the storage tank 101 can be squeezed into the deformable sound-permeable medium through the conduit 102. Fig.18 and Fig.19 When the deformable sound-permeable components are located on the left and right sides of the sound-permeable structure 2 , the conduit 102 coming out of the storage tank 101 is divided into two and connected to the deformable cavities on both sides of the sound-permeable structure 2 respectively.

[0124] Please continue reading Fig.18 and Fig.19 In a further implementation of an embodiment, the elasticity detection device further includes: a shell 13; the storage tank 101 is located in the shell 13, the shell 13 is provided with an opening, and the extrudable deformable surface 1011 of the storage tank 101 corresponds to the opening.

[0125] Specifically, the elasticity detection device has a shell 13, and the storage tank 101 is installed in the shell 13. The extrudable deformable surface 1011 of the storage tank 101 corresponds to the position of the opening on the shell 13, so that the operator can apply pressure to the extrudable deformable surface 1011 of the storage tank 101. When the operator presses the pressable side of one side of the storage tank 101, the sound-permeable liquid in the storage tank 101 flows into the interior of the deformable cavity along the catheter 102, thereby expanding the deformable cavity and forming an ultrasonic signal propagation channel, which is conducive to two-dimensional imaging. When the pressure on the extrudable deformable surface 1011 of the storage tank 101 is released, since the material of the extrudable deformable surface 1011 itself is elastic, part of the liquid in the deformable cavity flows back, and the deformable cavity returns to its original state, maintaining the protruding convex portion 21, which is convenient for instantaneous elastic imaging.

[0126] See also Fig. 20 and Fig.21In some embodiments, the elasticity detection device further includes: a pressing portion 14 ; the pressing portion 14 passes through the shell 13 and abuts against the storage tank 101 .

[0127] Specifically, the storage tank 101 is located in the housing 13, and the pressing portion 14 includes a pressing plate 141, a push rod 142, a spring 143, and a second piston 144. The second piston 144 is tightly slidably connected to the inner wall of the storage tank 101, the spring surrounds the push rod 142, one end of the spring 143 contacts the housing 13, and the other end of the spring 143 contacts the pressing plate 141. The operator presses the pressing plate 141 to push the second piston 144 to squeeze the acoustically permeable liquid in the storage tank 101 to flow to the deformable cavity through the conduit 102, further realizing the expansion of the deformable cavity, which is beneficial to two-dimensional imaging. After finding the optimal elastic detection position, the pressure on the pressing plate 141 is released, and the pressing plate 141 is pushed under the force of the spring 143 to drive the second piston 144 to reset, so that part of the acoustically transparent liquid in the deformable cavity can flow back to the storage tank 101, further resetting the deformable cavity, making it easier to use the protruding convex portion 21 to perform instantaneous elastic imaging detection.

[0128] See also Figure 1 and Fig.23 In another embodiment, the delivery assembly 10 includes: a second driver 105, a second driving rod 103, a storage tank 101, a first piston 104, and a conduit 102. The second driving rod 103 is connected to the second driver 105, the sound-permeable medium is disposed in the storage tank 101, the first piston 104 is disposed in the storage tank 101 and connected to the second driving rod 103, one end of the conduit 102 is connected to the first cavity through the first through hole, and the other end of the conduit 102 is connected to the storage tank 101.

[0129] Specifically, the sound-permeable medium is stored in the storage tank 101, and the conduit 102 coming out of the storage tank 101 is connected to the deformable cavity on the side of the sound-permeable structure 2. The second driver 105 is fixedly connected to the storage tank 101 and the housing 13 by a snap-on method. The first piston 104 is tightly slidably connected to the storage tank 101 and can move up and down in the storage tank 101 under the drive of the second driver 105 to transport the sound-permeable medium from the storage tank 101 to the deformable cavity, or to extract the sound-permeable medium from the deformable cavity to the storage tank 101. The second driver 105 and the first driver can also be the same driver.

[0130] Of course, the storage tank 101 can also be arranged outside the housing 13, the storage tank 101 is connected to the deformable cavity through the conduit 102, the storage tank 101 is filled with a sound-permeable liquid, and at least part of the outer wall of the storage tank 101 can be pressed and deformed. By applying pressure to the storage tank 101, the sound-permeable liquid inside is squeezed out and flows into the deformable cavity under the action of the pressure. The pressure can be applied by hand or by foot through the pedal 16. Fig. 22 As shown, the storage tank 101 is placed under the pedal 16 so that the acoustically transparent liquid can be delivered to the deformable cavity by foot pressure.

[0131] See also Figure 1 and Fig.23 In a further implementation of an embodiment, the elastic detection device also includes: a mounting portion 22; the mounting portion 22 is arranged at the bottom of the sound-permeable structure 2; wherein the mounting portion 22 is hollow and forms a cavity with the sound-permeable structure 2, and the ultrasonic transducer 1 is accommodated in the cavity and abuts against the sound-permeable structure 2; the mounting portion 22 is arranged on the shell 13 through an elastic medium 15.

[0132] Specifically, the mounting portion 22 is connected between the sound-permeable structure 2 and the shell 13, and is used to mount the sound-permeable structure 2 on the shell 13. The conduit 102 passes through the mounting portion 22 and communicates with the deformable cavity to transmit the sound-permeable medium to the deformable cavity. The ultrasonic transducer 1 is accommodated in the cavity. The mounting portion 22 can be integrally provided with the sound-permeable structure 2, and the material of the mounting portion 22 can be, but is not limited to, a sound-permeable material.

[0133] The mounting portion 22 is directly or indirectly connected to the housing 13 via an elastic medium 15 to form a closed ultrasonic detection probe. The elastic medium 15 has a telescopic effect, which enables the sound-permeable structure 2 to vibrate under the drive of the first driver and remain connected to the housing 13.

[0134] It should be understood that since ultrasonic signals cannot propagate in the air, the ultimate purpose of providing the deformable sound-permeable component is to allow the extended structure formed by it to occupy or displace the air in the ultrasonic signal propagation path. Figure 7As shown in the figure, the extension structure should enable the ultrasonic signal emitted by the multi-element ultrasonic transducer 1 to be smoothly and unobstructedly propagated to the detected tissue with the help of the extension structure, forming an ultrasonic signal propagation path, and then two-dimensional imaging can be performed. The multi-element ultrasonic transducer 1 is placed under the acoustic permeable structure 2. When two-dimensional imaging is performed, the position and size of the air area in the ultrasonic signal propagation path will vary with the acoustic permeable structure 2. The position and shape of the deformable acoustic permeable component can be set according to the shape of the acoustic permeable structure 2 and the size of the air area during imaging.

[0135] The principle of the position and shape design of the deformable sound-permeable component is: the larger the air area, the more the deformable sound-permeable component needs to produce a larger extension structure. Factors to be considered: In the deformable sound-permeable component formed by the first elastic membrane 3 or the second elastic membrane 6, when pressure is applied to the liquid inside, when the thickness of the elastic membrane is equal, the wider the width of the elastic membrane, the more prominent the extension structure formed. When the elastic membrane is subjected to the same liquid pressure, the thinner the elastic membrane is, the easier it is to form an extension protrusion. The two parameters of the thickness of the elastic membrane and the width of the hole can also be considered comprehensively to achieve the same extension structure effect. Therefore, the width of the elastic membrane can be wider at the location where a larger extension structure is required, or the thickness of the elastic membrane at that location can be thinner. On the contrary, when a smaller extension structure is required, the width of the elastic membrane is smaller, or its thickness is thicker.

[0136] In specific implementation, that is, when using an elastic detection probe with a deformable sound-permeable component to measure a patient, attention should be paid to the position of the probe in the intercostal space, and all surfaces that can be imaged by the ultrasonic transducer 1 should be placed in the intercostal space, so that the multi-element ultrasonic transducer 1 can avoid the ribs to image or detect tissues. Since the deformable sound-permeable component itself is set on the imaging surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1, the imaging surface of the ultrasonic transducer 1 can be identified by the position of the deformable sound-permeable component.

[0137] When the elastic detection probe is used to detect the patient, the patient detection area is first searched, and it is necessary to avoid areas such as large blood vessels that are not conducive to elastic detection. In this process, it is necessary to use the two-dimensional image guidance function. When the multi-element ultrasonic transducer 1 is used for two-dimensional imaging, the signal for driving the second driver 105 can be activated. The signal can be triggered by manual gear or the system can be automatically turned on during two-dimensional imaging. Of course, if the storage tank 101 has an extrudable deformable surface 1011, the storage tank 101 can be manually squeezed to transport the sound-permeable medium to the deformable cavity. The manual opening gear can be set on the elastic detection probe, or on the host display touch screen connected to the elastic detection probe, or controlled by a foot switch. The driving signal acts on the second driver 105, and the first piston 104 is pushed to move through the second driving rod 103. When the first piston 104 moves upward, the liquid (sound-permeable medium) in the squeezed storage tank 101 flows into the deformable cavity of the sound-permeable structure 2 through the conduit 102, forming a positive pressure on the liquid inside the deformable cavity. Under the action of positive pressure, the elastic membrane deforms outward to form an extended structure. With the help of the extended structure formed by the elastic membrane, the two-dimensional image guidance function can be well performed to avoid the large blood vessels in the liver and other locations that are not suitable for transient elastic imaging. After finding a location suitable for transient elastic imaging, turn off the two-dimensional imaging function and switch to the transient elastic imaging mode. Before the transient elastic detection, the drive signal for retracting the elastic membrane is activated and acts on the second driver 105, allowing the first piston 104 to move downward, and the liquid in the sound-permeable structure 2 flows to the storage tank 101 through the catheter 102 until the elastic membrane completes the contraction and resets to restore the deformation, at which time the extended structure formed by the elastic membrane disappears. After the extended structure disappears, the transient elastic imaging mode is automatically or manually turned on.

[0138] The second driver 105 is a conventional motor, and different levels of driving of the second driver 105 can be set, such as high, medium, and low, to meet different clinical situations. For example, when detecting obese patients, more fat tissue is easy to form an ultrasound imaging channel, and the extension structure formed by the elastic membrane does not require a particularly large force. Therefore, the driving force of the pressurized second driver 105 can be relatively small, and a low-speed driving can be used. On the contrary, when detecting thin patients, the driving force of the second driver 105 can be increased, and a high-speed driving can be used.

[0139] See also Fig.24 In some embodiments, the present invention further provides an elasticity detection method, which is applied to the elasticity detection device described above, comprising the steps of:

[0140] S100, driving the deformable sound-permeable component to swell on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal path on both sides of the sound-permeable structure;

[0141] S200, performing two-dimensional imaging by the first array and the second array of the ultrasonic transducer to obtain a two-dimensional image, and locking a position where transient elastic imaging is required by the two-dimensional image to obtain a detection position of a target to be detected;

[0142] S300, driving the deformable sound-permeable component to return to its original position to highlight the raised portion of the sound-permeable structure;

[0143] S400, driving the protrusion to vibrate to generate shear waves inside the target to be detected;

[0144] S500: Tracking and detecting shear waves are achieved by exciting at least part of the array elements in the first array of ultrasonic transducers to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals.

[0145] S600: According to the ultrasonic signal received by the first array, shear wave velocity information reflecting tissue hardness or ultrasonic attenuation information reflecting liver fat level can be extracted. The details are as described in an embodiment of an elasticity detection device, which will not be described in detail here.

[0146] In other embodiments, at least some of the array elements in the first array of ultrasonic transducers may be excited before the moment when the protrusion vibrates. At this time, the entire process of shear wave from vibration to propagation can be observed through the ultrasonic transducer first array echo ultrasonic signal.

[0147] It should be understood that the application of the present invention is not limited to the above examples. For ordinary technicians in this field, improvements or changes can be made based on the above description. All these improvements and changes should fall within the scope of protection of the claims attached to the present invention.

Claims

1. An elastic detection probe, characterized in that: include: An ultrasonic transducer, wherein the ultrasonic transducer is a multi-element ultrasonic transducer; A sound-permeable structure, wherein the sound-permeable structure is arranged at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer; The top of the sound permeable structure is provided with a raised portion, and the raised portion is used to vibrate and generate shear waves; the width of the surface of the raised portion is 5-15 mm; the length of the end surface of the raised portion is less than twice the width of the end surface of the raised portion; A deformable sound-permeable component, wherein the deformable sound-permeable component is symmetrically arranged on the sound-permeable structure, and during the two-dimensional imaging process, the deformable sound-permeable component bulges on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal propagation channel; The deformable sound-permeable component is a deformable cavity, and the expansion and contraction of the deformable cavity is controlled by whether the deformable cavity is filled with a sound-permeable medium.

2. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: The deformable cavity is located on two symmetrical sides or around the sound-permeable structure.

3. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 2, characterized in that: The deformable cavity is composed of a first elastic membrane and a surface of the sound-permeable structure.

4. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 2, characterized in that: The deformable cavity is composed of an elastic bladder.

5. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: A groove is provided at the sound-permeable structure corresponding to the deformable cavity.

6. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: The deformable cavity passes through the sound-permeable structure.

7. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 6, characterized in that: At least two ends of the deformable cavity are formed by a second elastic membrane.

8. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 7, characterized in that: The upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer constitutes the lower surface of the deformable cavity, or the upper surface of the ultrasonic transducer is in contact with the lower surface of the deformable cavity.

9. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: The acoustically permeable medium is an acoustically permeable liquid.

10. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: A support frame is provided on the side of the deformable cavity.

11. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: The angles between the two outer cut surfaces in the width direction of the surface of the protrusion and the central axis of the protrusion are 0-30 degrees.

12. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: The protrusion is columnar or truncated cone-shaped.

13. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: Curved structures are arranged on both sides of the sound-permeable structure, and the curved structures extend from the end surfaces of the raised portions to the bottom of the sound-permeable structure. The deformable sound-permeable component is arranged on the curved structures.

14. The elasticity detection probe according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 13, characterized in that: The ultrasonic transducer includes a first array and a second array located on both sides of the first array. The protrusion is arranged directly above the first array, and the central axis of the protrusion coincides with the central axis of the first array.

15. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 14, characterized in that: During transient elastic imaging, at least some of the array elements of the first array are used to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to track and detect shear waves.

16. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is a first driver for driving the sound-permeable structure.

17. The elasticity detection probe according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sound-permeable structure moves independently or the sound-permeable structure moves together with the ultrasonic transducer.

18. An elasticity detection device, comprising the elasticity detection probe according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that: The invention also comprises a conveying component, wherein the conveying component is provided with a sound-permeable medium, and the conveying component is used to convey the sound-permeable medium into the deformable sound-permeable component.

19. The elasticity detection device according to claim 18, characterized in that: The conveying assembly comprises: A storage tank, wherein the sound-permeable medium is disposed in the storage tank, and at least a portion of the surface of the storage tank can be pressed and deformed; A conduit, one end of which is connected to the deformable sound-permeable component, and the other end of which is connected to the storage tank.

20. The elasticity detection device according to claim 19, characterized in that: Also includes: The storage tank is located in the shell, the shell is provided with an opening, and the extrudable and deformable surface of the storage tank corresponds to the opening.

21. The elasticity detection device according to claim 20, characterized in that: Also includes: The pressing portion passes through the shell and abuts against the storage tank.

22. The elasticity detection device according to claim 18, characterized in that: The conveying assembly comprises: a second drive rod; a storage tank, wherein the sound-permeable medium is disposed in the storage tank; a first piston, the first piston being disposed in the storage tank and connected to the second driving rod; A conduit, one end of which is connected to the deformable sound-permeable component, and the other end of which is connected to the storage tank.

23. The elasticity detection device according to claim 22, characterized in that: The conveying assembly also includes: A second driver; the second driving rod is connected to the second driver.

24. The elasticity detection device according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that: Also includes: A shell and a mounting portion; the mounting portion is arranged at the bottom of the sound-permeable structure; wherein the mounting portion is hollow and forms a cavity with the sound-permeable structure, the ultrasonic transducer is accommodated in the cavity and abuts against the sound-permeable structure; the mounting portion is arranged on the shell through an elastic medium.

25. An elasticity detection method, applied to the elasticity detection device according to any one of claims 18 to 24, characterized in that: include: Driving the deformable sound-permeable component to swell on the outer side of the sound-permeable structure to form an ultrasonic signal path on both sides of the sound-permeable structure; Performing two-dimensional imaging with the first array and the second array of the ultrasonic transducer to obtain a two-dimensional image, and locking the position where transient elastic imaging is required to obtain the detection position of the target to be detected with the two-dimensional image; driving the deformable sound-permeable component to return to its original position so as to highlight the protruding portion of the sound-permeable structure; driving the protrusion to vibrate so as to generate shear waves inside the target to be detected; Tracking and detecting the shear wave by exciting at least part of the array elements in the first array of the ultrasonic transducer to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals; Shear wave velocity information reflecting tissue hardness or ultrasonic attenuation information reflecting liver fat level is obtained according to the ultrasonic signal received by the first array.

Images