Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is provided. A control section has a processor functioning as a synchronization signal generation section that generates a first synchronization signal, controls an ultrasonic probe in accordance with the first synchronization signal, a processor functioning as an ultrasonic image generation section, and a connector that has a synchronization signal line that transmits a second synchronization signal generated by the synchronization signal generation section and a data line that transmits data, outputs the second synchronization signal to the outside via the synchronization signal line, can be connected to a light source device that emits light to be incident on an insert, causes the second synchronization signal to be output via the synchronization signal line, the insert has a photoacoustic wave generation section that generates a photoacoustic wave by absorbing light, can also be connected to an electrocardiograph that stores identification information for identifying the apparatus, and outputs the second synchronization signal corresponding to the electrocardiograph via the connector when the identification information is acquired via the connector and it is detected that the electrocardiograph is connected in accordance with the identification information.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with application number 201880021555.0 (international application number PCT / JP2018 / 005394) filed on February 16, 2018, entitled "Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus". TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of connecting a light source device that emits light for generating a photoacoustic wave. BACKGROUND

[0003] As one of image inspection methods capable of inspecting the internal state of a living body in a non-invasive manner, an ultrasonic inspection method is known. In ultrasonic inspection, an ultrasonic probe capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves is used. If an ultrasonic wave is transmitted from the ultrasonic probe to a subject (living body), the ultrasonic wave travels inside the living body and is reflected at a tissue interface. The reflected ultrasonic wave is received by the ultrasonic probe, and the distance is calculated from the time until the reflected ultrasonic wave returns to the ultrasonic probe, whereby the internal situation can be imaged.

[0004] Further, a photoacoustic imaging using a puncture needle in which a photoacoustic wave generating section that generates a photoacoustic wave by absorbing light is provided near the tip end is proposed. In this puncture needle, an optical fiber is provided up to the tip end of the puncture needle, and light guided through the optical fiber is irradiated to the photoacoustic wave generating section. The photoacoustic wave generated in the photoacoustic wave generating section is detected by an ultrasonic probe, and a photoacoustic image is generated from the detection signal. In the photoacoustic image, the portion of the photoacoustic wave generating section appears as a light spot, and thus the position of the tip end of the puncture needle can be confirmed using the photoacoustic image.

[0005] Further, in Patent Literature 1, a light source device that makes light incident on the above-described puncture needle is connected to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for performing ultrasonic inspection, and a system capable of acquiring both an ultrasonic image and a photoacoustic image is proposed.

[0006] Prior Art Documents

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-231582 SUMMARY

[0009] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] Here, as described above, when the position of the tip of the puncture needle is confirmed using the photoacoustic image, it is necessary to display the position of the tip of the puncture needle with a distance accuracy of 0.1 mm or less. This is because ultrasonic wave measurement is generally performed with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. Also, the puncture needle has a thickness of about 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm, and for example, when a puncture needle of 0.4 mm is used, it is necessary to have an accuracy of about 25% thereof, that is, about 0.1 mm.

[0011] On the other hand, as described above, the photoacoustic wave generation unit generates a photoacoustic wave by absorbing light emitted from the light source device, and detects a photoacoustic image by receiving the photoacoustic wave by the ultrasonic probe. Therefore, it is necessary to synchronize the emission of light from the light source device with the reception based on the ultrasonic probe.

[0012] Also, in order to achieve a distance accuracy of 0.1 mm or less, the synchronization signal for synchronizing the emission of light from the light source device with the reception based on the ultrasonic probe must not deviate from the desired time by more than that. Specifically, for example, when the sound velocity of the photoacoustic wave is set to 1540 [m / s], it must not deviate by more than 0.1 [mm] / 1540 [m / s] = 0.06 [μs].

[0013] However, as described in Patent Literature 1, when the light source device and the ultrasonic diagnostic device are connected by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector, since there is a limitation on the communication speed, it is not possible to transmit the synchronization signal with a time accuracy of 0.06 [μs] or less. Specifically, for example, even in high-speed USB such as USB2.0 and USB3.1, the minimum unit of the communication time of one data packet is 125 [μs], so it is not possible to transmit the synchronization signal with a time accuracy of more than that. When the synchronization signal deviates by 125 [μs], it deviates by 193 mm in terms of distance, so it is not possible to grasp the accurate position of the tip of the puncture needle.

[0014] The present application was made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic device capable of synchronizing the emission of light from a light source device with the reception based on an ultrasonic probe with high accuracy.

[0015] Means for solving the technical problem

[0016] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application is provided with: a control section having a processor functioning as a synchronization signal generation section that generates a first synchronization signal for controlling the transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves in an ultrasonic probe, the control section controlling the ultrasonic probe in accordance with the first synchronization signal; a processor functioning as an ultrasonic image generation section that generates an ultrasonic image in accordance with a signal detected by the ultrasonic probe; and a connector having a synchronization signal line that transmits a second synchronization signal generated in the synchronization signal generation section and a data line that transmits data independently of the synchronization signal line, the connector outputting the second synchronization signal to the outside via the synchronization signal line, the connector being configured to be connectable to a light source device that emits light to be incident on an insert having a photoacoustic wave generation section that generates a photoacoustic wave by absorbing the light, so that the second synchronization signal is output via the synchronization signal line, the connector also being configured to be connectable to an electrocardiograph that is different from the light source device, the electrocardiograph storing identification information for identifying the apparatus, the control section outputting the second synchronization signal corresponding to the electrocardiograph via the connector in a case where the identification information is acquired via the connector and it is detected from the acquired identification information that the electrocardiograph is connected.

[0017] Also, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application described above, the light source device emits the light in accordance with the second synchronization signal.

[0018] Also, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application described above, the synchronization signal generation section has a clock signal generation section that generates a clock signal, and the connector has a clock signal line that transmits the clock signal, the connector outputting the clock signal to the outside via the clock signal line.

[0019] Also, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application described above, the processor constituting the ultrasonic image generation section operates in accordance with a clock signal that is different from the clock signal.

[0020] Also, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application described above, the synchronization signal generation section generates the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal in a manner in which the light source device emits the light a plurality of times during a period in which one line of signals is detected by the ultrasonic probe.

[0021] Also, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application described above, the synchronization signal generation section generates the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal in a manner in which the light source device emits the light a plurality of times during a period in which one frame of signals is detected by the ultrasonic probe.

[0022] Furthermore, in the ultrasonic diagnostic device of the present invention described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic device is a mobile type.

[0023] Furthermore, in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus of the present invention described above, the connector is also configured to output a signal generated according to the second synchronization signal to the outside via the synchronization signal line.

[0024] Invention Effects

[0025] According to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, the ultrasonic probe is configured to be controlled according to a first synchronization signal generated by a synchronization signal generation unit, and a connector is provided having a synchronization signal line for transmitting a second synchronization signal generated by the synchronization signal generation unit or a signal generated according to the second synchronization signal. The connector is configured to be able to connect a light source device that emits light irradiating the photoacoustic wave generation unit. Therefore, the emission of light from the light source device and the reception based on the ultrasonic probe can be synchronized with high precision. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the schematic structure of an ultrasound diagnostic system using the first embodiment of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the schematic structure of an ultrasound diagnostic system using the first embodiment of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the ultrasound diagnostic system according to the first embodiment of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a timing diagram of the ECG detection mode.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view including the central axis extending along the length of the puncture needle.

[0031] Figure 6 It is a time-series diagram of photoacoustic wave image patterns.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the wiring of the connector according to the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the wiring of the connector according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a block diagram showing the schematic structure of an ultrasound diagnostic system using the second embodiment of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 10is a block diagram showing an outline configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system using a second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present application.

[0036] Figure 11 is a timing chart of a continuous wave Doppler measurement mode.

[0037] Figure 12 is a view showing a wiring of a connector of the second embodiment.

[0038] Figure 13 is a view showing a wiring of a connector of the second embodiment.

[0039] Figure 14 is another timing chart of an optoacoustic wave image mode.

[0040] Figure 15 is a view showing an example of an optoacoustic image when an optoacoustic wave is transmitted multiple times.

[0041] Figure 16 is a view for explaining processing of an optoacoustic image detected by transmitting an optoacoustic wave multiple times.

[0042] Figure 17 is a view showing an example of an optoacoustic image generated by the processing shown in Figure 16 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic system of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus using the present application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an outline configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the present embodiment. Figure 3 is an external perspective view of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the present embodiment.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the present embodiment is provided with an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, an ultrasonic probe 20, an electrocardiograph unit 30, an optoacoustic wave light source unit 60, a memory 40, and a printer 50.

[0045] In the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in Figure 1 Figure 2 ​​As shown, the connector 17 is configured to be able to connect the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 (corresponding to the light source device of the present application). That is, the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to connect both the electrocardiograph unit 30 and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, and either one of these units is connected to the connector 17. The structure of the connector 17 will be described later in detail.

[0046] Figure 3 A state in which the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is shown. As shown, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 of the present embodiment is configured to be mobile, and the cable of the ultrasonic probe 20 is connected to the bottom surface of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. In addition, the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected to the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Figure 3 Figure 2 The ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown is the same as the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in FIG. 1, except that the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 instead of the electrocardiograph unit 30 in the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1 The ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown is the same as the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in FIG. 1, except that the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 instead of the electrocardiograph unit 30 in the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1 The ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown is the same as the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in FIG. 1, except that the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 instead of the electrocardiograph unit 30 in the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in FIG. 1.

[0047] First, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 in the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is provided with a main control section 11, a sub control section 12 (corresponding to the control section of the present application), a transmission control section 13, a reception control section 14, an operation section 15, a display section 16, and the above-described connector 17. Also, the sub control section 12, the transmission control section 13, and the reception control section 14 are provided on a control substrate 18 different from the main control section 11.

[0048] The main control section 11 is a section that controls the entire system, and is provided with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the like. Also, the main control section 11 is provided with an image generation section 11a (corresponding to the ultrasonic image generation section of the present application). The image generation section 11a generates an ultrasonic image and a photoacoustic image based on a detection signal detected by the ultrasonic probe 20. The generation processing of the ultrasonic image and the photoacoustic image includes, for example, image reconstruction such as phase matching addition, detection, and logarithmic conversion.

[0049] The sub control section 12 is provided with a processor, and the like, and controls transmission of an ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic probe 20 and reception of a reflected ultrasonic wave reflected from a subject due to transmission of the ultrasonic wave to the subject. Also, the sub control section 12 controls reception of an ECG (Electrocardiogram) signal output from the electrocardiograph unit 30, and controls emission of light from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60.

[0050] ​Specifically, the sub-control section 12 has a synchronization signal generating section 12a and an ECG processor 12c. Also, the synchronization signal generating section 12a has a clock signal generating section 12b.

[0051] The clock signal generating section 12b is a section that generates a clock signal, and has a crystal oscillator or the like. Also, the synchronization signal generating section 12a has a PLL (phase locked loop) circuit or the like, and multiplies the clock signal generated in the clock signal generating section 12b and generates a synchronization signal. The frequency of the clock signal can be set to 40 MHz, for example, and the frequency of the synchronization signal can be set to 160 MHz, for example.

[0052] Also, the synchronization signal generated in the synchronization signal generating section 12a is output to the transmission control section 13 and the reception control section 14. The transmission control section 13 controls the transmission timing of the ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic probe 20 in accordance with the input synchronization signal. Also, the reception control section 14 controls the reception timing of the reflected ultrasonic waves of the ultrasonic probe 20 in accordance with the input synchronization signal. Note that, in the present embodiment, the synchronization signal input to the transmission control section 13 and the reception control section 14 corresponds to the first synchronization signal of the present application. Also, the transmission control section 13 and the reception control section 14 have an electric circuit or the like that performs the transmission and reception control as described above.

[0053] Also, the synchronization signal generated in the synchronization signal generating section 12a is output to the outside via the connector 17, and is input to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 connected to the connector 17. The electrocardiograph unit 30 detects an ECG signal in accordance with the input synchronization signal. The photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 controls the emission timing of the light for generating a photoacoustic wave in accordance with the input synchronization signal. Note that, in the present embodiment, the synchronization signal input to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 corresponds to the second synchronization signal of the present application.

[0054] Note that, the processor of the main control section 11 having the image generating section 11a preferably operates in accordance with a clock signal different from the clock signal generated by the clock signal generating section 12b of the sub-control section 12. In this way, by separating the clock signal of the processor of the main control section 11 and the clock signal of the processor of the sub-control section 12, it is not necessary to acquire synchronization of the main control section 11 and the sub-control section 12, and it is not necessary to take measures against delay on the circuit or the like, and thus it is possible to have a simple structure. Also, the main control section 11 performs processing such as generation processing and storage of an ultrasonic image and a photoacoustic image, which do not require high-precision synchronization in time, but provides various tasks, and thus a general-purpose CPU is used and the tasks are distributed by an OS (Operating System).

[0055] However, the OS-based control is likely to cause a delay when the load on the CPU becomes high, and thus is not suitable for high-precision synchronization. On the other hand, the sub control section 12 needs high-precision synchronization such as transmission and reception control. In the present embodiment, the main control section 11 and the sub control section 12 are independent, and for example, even when the load on the main control section 11 becomes heavy, the sub control section 12 performs digital control independently of the main control section 11, and thus high-precision control can be continuously performed.

[0056] The ECG processor 12c receives the ECG signal detected based on the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a, and outputs the received ECG signal to the main control section 11 at the same timing as the transmission of the above-described synchronization signal to the electrocardiograph unit 30. The main control section 11 displays the input ECG signal on the display section 16.

[0057] Figure 4 is a timing chart showing the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a, the transmission timing of the ultrasonic wave based on the synchronization signal, the detection timing of the ECG signal, and the reception timing of the ultrasonic wave. Figure 4 The ultrasonic wave transmission timing signal is the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the transmission control section 13, the ECG signal detection timing signal is the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the electrocardiograph unit 30, and the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal is the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the reception control section 14.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4 , the ultrasonic wave transmission timing signal, the ECG signal detection timing signal, and the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal are output at the same timing, and the transmission of the ultrasonic wave is performed in synchronization with the detection of the ECG signal. Further, the reception control section 14 starts to receive the reflected ultrasonic wave after a certain Delay time (for example, about 0.1 μs) from the timing at which the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal is received. Further, the reception control section 14 stops the reception after receiving the reflected ultrasonic wave for a certain reception period. Note that the reception period can be set to a time corresponding to a depth of about 30 cm (0.3 [m] x 2 / 1540 [m / s] = 0.39 ms, 1540 [m / s] is the sound velocity of the transmitted ultrasonic wave (10 MHz)) taking into account the echo signal. Further, the reception control section 14 outputs the detection signal of the reflected ultrasonic wave to the main control section 11 at the same timing as the reception of the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal. The image generation section 11a of the main control section 11 generates an ultrasonic wave image based on the detection signal of the reflected ultrasonic wave, and the main control section 11 displays the ultrasonic wave image and the ECG waveform based on the ECG signal on the display section 16 in coordination with the timing.

[0059] Returning to Figure 1 , the operation section 15 is a section that receives various operations based on the user, and for example,Figure 3 As shown, a keyboard and operation buttons and the like are provided. The operation section 15 of the present embodiment receives ON and OFF operations of the ECG detection mode and ON and OFF operations of the photoacoustic image mode.

[0060] When an ON operation of the ECG detection mode is received in the operation section 15, the synchronization signal generation section 12a outputs an ECG signal detection timing signal in accordance with a control schedule set in advance. Also, when an ON operation of the photoacoustic image mode is received in the operation section 15, the synchronization signal generation section 12a outputs a photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal described later in accordance with a control schedule set in advance.

[0061] The display section 16 includes a liquid crystal display and the like and displays the ultrasonic wave image and the photoacoustic image generated in the image generation section 11a and the ECG waveform based on the ECG signal output from the ECG processor 12c.

[0062] Also, the ultrasonic wave diagnostic apparatus 10 includes USB connectors 41 and 51 different from the connector 17, a memory 40 is connected to the USB connector 41, for example, and a printer 50 is connected to the USB connector 51, for example.

[0063] Next, the electrocardiograph unit 30 will be described. The electrocardiograph unit 30 includes an electrode set 30a to be attached to a subject, an amplification circuit 30b, an AD conversion circuit 30c, an ID detection circuit 30d, and a failure detection circuit 30e.

[0064] The amplification circuit 30b amplifies the ECG signal detected by the electrode set 30a. The AD conversion circuit 30c converts the ECG signal amplified by the amplification circuit 30b into a digital signal and outputs it to the ultrasonic wave diagnostic apparatus 10. The AD conversion circuit 30c operates in accordance with the ECG signal detection timing signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a and outputs the ECG signal to the ECG processor 12c.

[0065] The ID detection circuit 30d includes a memory that stores ID information (equivalent to identification information for identifying the apparatus) of the electrocardiograph unit 30 and a reading circuit that reads the ID information from the memory, and the like. Also, the ID detection circuit 30d outputs the ID information to the sub control section 12 of the ultrasonic wave diagnostic apparatus 10 at the time of startup of the ultrasonic wave diagnostic apparatus 10 when the connector 17 of the ultrasonic wave diagnostic apparatus 10 is connected to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or after the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected. In addition, as a method of detecting that the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected to the ultrasonic wave diagnostic apparatus 10, various known connection detections can be used, for example, an optical sensor such as an optocoupler can be provided, or detection can be made by a mechanical structure.

[0066] Further, the sub control section 12 performs ECG detection only when the ECG detection mode is selected in the operation section 15 and the ID information of the electrocardiograph unit 30 is received. That is, the sub control section 12 outputs an ECG signal detection timing signal from the sync signal generating section 12a. Even when the ECG detection mode is selected in the operation section 15, when ID information different from that of the electrocardiograph unit 30 is received, the sub control section 12 does not output the ECG signal detection timing signal.

[0067] Specifically, for example, when the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 instead of the electrocardiograph unit 30 by mistake, the sub control section 12 does not receive the ID information of the electrocardiograph unit 30, and thus does not output the ECG signal detection timing signal. Thereby, it is possible to prevent malfunction of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 and erroneous emission of light from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60. In addition, when a device other than the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected to the connector 17 in the case where the ECG detection mode is selected in the operation section 15, the sub control section 12 outputs this case to the main control section 11, and the main control section 11 displays a warning message or the like on the display section 16.

[0068] The malfunction detection circuit 30e confirms whether or not there is a malfunction in the electrocardiograph unit 30 at the time when the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected to the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or after the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected, at the time when the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is started or at the time when the electrocardiograph unit 30 is operated. As the malfunction detection of the electrocardiograph unit 30, for example, an abnormality in the output of the amplification circuit 30b is detected. When a malfunction is detected by the malfunction detection circuit 30e, the detection signal is output to the main control section 11 via the sub control section 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, and the main control section 11 displays that a malfunction is detected on the display section 16.

[0069] Further, the AD conversion circuit 30c, the ID detection circuit 30d, and the malfunction detection circuit 30e in the electrocardiograph unit 30 are digitally controlled in accordance with a clock signal generated in the clock signal generating section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Thus, by using the clock signal generating section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, it is not necessary to provide a clock signal generating section in the electrocardiograph unit 30, and thus miniaturization is achieved.

[0070] Next, the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 will be described. As shown in FIG. 6, the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is provided with a light source section 60a, a pulse generating circuit 60b, an ID detection circuit 60c, and a malfunction detection circuit 60d. Figure 2

[0071] ​The light source section 60a is a section that emits light for generating an optoacoustic wave, and includes an LD (Laser Diode) or an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like. The pulse generation circuit 60b generates a pulse signal in accordance with a synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a. The light source section 60a emits light in a pulse shape in accordance with the pulse signal output from the pulse generation circuit 60b.

[0072] One end of an optical cable 62 including an optical fiber is connected to the light source section 60a, and the other end of the optical cable 62 is connected to the puncture needle 61.

[0073] The puncture needle 61 is an embodiment of the insertion tool of the present application, and is a needle that punctures a subject. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view including a central axis extending in the length direction of the puncture needle 61. The puncture needle 61 has an opening at the tip end formed as an acute angle, and includes a puncture needle body 61a formed as a hollow shape, an optical fiber 61b that guides light emitted from the light source section 60a to the vicinity of the opening of the puncture needle 61, and an optoacoustic wave generation section 61c that generates an optoacoustic wave by absorbing light emitted from the optical fiber 61b.

[0074] The optical fiber 61b and the optoacoustic wave generation section 61c are disposed in a hollow portion 61d of the puncture needle body 61a. The optical fiber 61b is connected to the optical fiber in the optical cable 62, for example, via an optical connector provided at the base end portion of the puncture needle 61.

[0075] The optoacoustic wave generation section 61c is provided at the light emission end of the optical fiber 61b, and is disposed in the vicinity of the tip end of the puncture needle 61 and the inner wall of the puncture needle body 61a. The optoacoustic wave generation section 61c generates an optoacoustic wave by absorbing light emitted from the optical fiber 61b. The optoacoustic wave generation section 61c is formed of, for example, an epoxy resin mixed with black pigment, a polyurethane resin, a fluororesin, a silicone rubber, or the like. In addition, in Figure 5 The optoacoustic wave generation section 61c is depicted as being larger than the optical fiber 61b in FIG. 6, but is not limited thereto, and the optoacoustic wave generation section 61c can be the same size as the diameter of the optical fiber 61b.

[0076] The photoacoustic wave generation section 61c is not limited to the above, and a metal film or an oxide film having light absorbance with respect to the wavelength of light can be provided as the photoacoustic wave generation section. For example, as the photoacoustic wave generation section 61c, an oxide film of iron oxide, chromium oxide, manganese oxide, or the like, which has high light absorbance with respect to the wavelength of light, can be used. Alternatively, a metal film of Ti (titanium), Pt (platinum), or the like, which has lower light absorbance than the oxide film but has high biocompatibility, can be used as the photoacoustic wave generation section 61c. Furthermore, the position at which the photoacoustic wave generation section 61c is provided is not limited to the inner wall of the puncture needle main body 61a. For example, the photoacoustic wave generation section 61c, that is, the metal film or the oxide film can be formed on the light emission end of the optical fiber 61b by evaporation or the like, for example, with a film thickness of about 100 nm, and the oxide film can cover the light emission end. In this case, at least a portion of the light emitted from the light emission end of the optical fiber 61b is absorbed by the metal film or the oxide film that covers the light emission end, and a photoacoustic wave is generated from the metal film or the oxide film.

[0077] RETURN Figure 2 The ID detection circuit 60c includes a memory that stores the ID information of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 (which corresponds to identification information for identifying the device) and a reading circuit that reads the ID information from the memory, and the like. Furthermore, when the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 or after the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected, at the time of activation of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10, the ID detection circuit 60c outputs the ID information to the sub-control section 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10. In addition, as a method of detecting that the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10, various known connection detection methods can be used, and for example, an optical sensor such as an optical coupler can be provided, or detection can be performed by an electrical structure or a mechanical structure.

[0078] Furthermore, the sub-control section 12 performs photoacoustic image measurement only when the photoacoustic image mode is selected in the operation section 15 and the ID information of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is received. That is, the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal is output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a. Even when the photoacoustic image mode is selected in the operation section 15, when ID information different from the ID information of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is received, the sub-control section 12 does not output the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal.

[0079] Specifically, for example, when the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected to the connector 17 instead of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, the sub-control section 12 does not receive the ID information of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, and thus does not output the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal. Thereby, malfunction of the electrocardiograph unit 30 can be prevented. In addition, when a device other than the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 in a case where the photoacoustic image mode is selected in the operation section 15, the sub-control section 12 outputs this situation to the main control section 11, and the main control section 11 displays a warning message or the like on the display section 16.

[0080] When the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or after the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected, the malfunction detection circuit 60d confirms whether or not there is a malfunction in the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 at the time of activation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or at the time of operation of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60. As the malfunction detection of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, for example, an abnormality in the current value or voltage value of the light source section 60a is detected. When a malfunction is detected by the malfunction detection circuit 60d, the detection signal is output to the main control section 11 via the sub control section 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, and the main control section 11 displays that a malfunction is detected on the display section 16.

[0081] Further, the ID detection circuit 60c and the malfunction detection circuit 60d in the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 are digitally controlled based on the clock signal generated in the clock signal generation section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Thus, by using the clock signal generation section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, it is not necessary to provide a clock signal generation section in the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, and thus miniaturization can be achieved.

[0082] Figure 6 is a timing chart showing the timing of the transmission of the ultrasonic wave and the photoacoustic wave based on the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a, the transmission timing of the photoacoustic wave, and the reception timing of the ultrasonic wave in the photoacoustic wave image mode. Figure 6 The ultrasonic wave transmission timing signal shown is the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the transmission control section 13 (corresponding to the first synchronization signal of the present application), the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal is the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 (corresponding to the second synchronization signal of the present application), and the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal is the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the reception control section 14 (corresponding to the first synchronization signal of the present application).

[0083] As shown in Fig. 6, the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, and the ID detection circuit 60c of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 receives the clock signal from the clock signal generation section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Figure 6As shown, the ultrasonic wave transmission timing signal and the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal are output at the same timing except when the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal and the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal are output at the same time, and the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal is output between the ultrasonic wave transmission timing signals. Further, the reception control section 14 starts reception of the reflected ultrasonic wave a certain Delay time (for example, about 0.1 μs) from the timing at which the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal is received. Further, the reception control section 14 stops reception after receiving the reflected ultrasonic wave for a certain reception period. Note that the reception period can be set to a time corresponding to a depth of about 30 cm (0.3 [m] x 2 / 1540 [m / s] = 0.39 ms, 1540 [m / s] being the speed of sound of the ultrasonic wave (10 MHz)) taking into account an echo signal, for example. Further, the reception control section 14 outputs a detection signal of the reflected ultrasonic wave to the main control section 11 at the same timing as the timing at which the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal is received.

[0084] Further, the reception control section 14 starts reception of the photoacoustic wave after the reception period of the reflected ultrasonic wave, immediately after the photoacoustic wave is generated from the photoacoustic wave generation section 61c of the puncture needle 61. Further, the reception control section 14 stops reception after receiving the photoacoustic wave for a certain reception period. Note that the reception period of the photoacoustic wave can be set to a time corresponding to a depth of about 30 cm (0.3 [m] / 1540 [m / s] = 0.195 ms, 1540 [m / s] being the speed of sound of the ultrasonic wave (10 MHz)) for example. The reception period of the photoacoustic wave is half the reception period of the reflected ultrasonic wave. Further, the reception control section 14 outputs a detection signal of the photoacoustic wave to the main control section 11 at the same timing as the timing at which the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal is received. The image generation section 11a of the main control section 11 generates an ultrasonic wave image from the input detection signal of the ultrasonic wave and generates a photoacoustic image from the input detection signal of the photoacoustic wave. Further, the main control section 11 superimposes the photoacoustic image on the ultrasonic wave image and displays the result on the display section 16.

[0085] Note that the interval between the transmission of the ultrasonic wave and the reception of the reflected ultrasonic wave and the transmission and reception of the photoacoustic wave can be one line interval. That is, the detection of the reflected ultrasonic wave and the detection of the photoacoustic wave can be alternately performed every other line. In this case, the transmission and reception can be made one-to-one, and thus inexpensive hardware can be used.

[0086] Further, the detection of the reflected ultrasonic wave and the detection of the photoacoustic wave can be alternately performed every other frame. Further, the detection of the reflected ultrasonic wave and the detection of the photoacoustic wave can be alternately performed every several lines. Specifically, for example, the detection of the reflected ultrasonic wave for lines 1 to 64 can be performed, followed by the detection of the photoacoustic wave for lines 1 to 64, and then the detection of the reflected ultrasonic wave for lines 65 to 128 can be performed, followed by the detection of the photoacoustic wave for lines 65 to 128, when one frame is composed of 128 lines.

[0087] Next, the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described. Figure 7 The state where the electrocardiograph unit 30 is connected to the connector 17 is shown, Figure 8 The state where the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 17 is shown. As Figure 7 and Figure 8 The connector 17 of the present embodiment has five wires 17a to 17e.

[0088] The first wire 17a is a power supply line, and supplies electric power from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 through the first wire 17a. The second wire 17b is a clock signal line, and supplies a clock signal from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 through the second wire 17b. The third wire 17c is a synchronization signal line, and transmits a synchronization signal from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 through the third wire 17c.

[0089] The fourth wire 17d is a data line, and inputs an ECG signal, ID information, and a failure detection signal output from the electrocardiograph unit 30 into the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 through the fourth wire 17d. Also, ID information and a failure detection signal output from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 are input into the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 through the fourth wire 17d. In addition, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 The fourth wire 17d is shown as one wire in the above, but it is preferable to be two or three and to perform parallel transmission.

[0090] The fifth wire 17e is a ground line, and supplies a ground potential from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the electrocardiograph unit 30 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 through the fifth wire 17e.

[0091] According to the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the above first embodiment, the structure is provided where the ultrasonic probe 20 is controlled in accordance with the synchronization signal generated by the synchronization signal generation section 12a, and the connector 17 having the synchronization signal line that transmits the synchronization signal generated by the synchronization signal generation section 12a is provided, and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connectable to the connector 17, and thus it is possible to synchronize the emission of light from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 with the reception based on the ultrasonic probe 20 with high precision.

[0092] Further, since the connector 17 is configured to be able to connect both the electrocardiograph unit 30 and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, the space for the connector can be reduced, and thus miniaturization can be achieved. Further, deterioration of the electrical safety and EMC (Electro Magnetic Compatibility) performance due to an increase in the number of connectors can be prevented.

[0093] Further, in the first embodiment described above, the connector 17 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is configured to be able to connect the electrocardiograph unit 30, but can be configured to be able to connect a phonocardiograph unit (equivalent to the phonocardiograph of the present application). The phonocardiograph unit is configured by providing a microphone for measuring heart sounds instead of the electrode set 30a of the electrocardiograph unit 30.

[0094] In addition, in clinical practice, ECG detection and PCG (Phonocardiogram) detection and photoacoustic wave image measurement (puncture) are not used at the same time, and thus there is no problem in that the electrocardiograph unit 30 and the phonocardiograph unit and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 are exclusively connected to the connector 17.

[0095] Next, an ultrasonic diagnostic system according to a second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus using the present application will be described. Figure 9 and Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 of the present embodiment. The appearance of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 of the present embodiment is the same as that of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the first embodiment shown in Figure 3 .

[0096] In the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 of the first embodiment described above, the connector 17 is configured to be able to connect both the electrocardiograph unit 30 and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60. The ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 of the second embodiment is provided with a connector 19 configured to be able to connect both a continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60. Figure 9 A state in which the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected to the connector 19 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is shown. Figure 10 A state in which the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 19 is shown. In addition, Figure 10 The ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 shown in Figure 9 is the same as the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 shown in Figure 9 except that the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 in the ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 shown in

[0097] First, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 in the ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 of the present embodiment will be described. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 of the present embodiment is provided with a CW (Continuous Wave) dedicated transmission control section 71 and a CW dedicated reception control section 72 in place of the ECG processor 12c of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 of the first embodiment.

[0098] The CW dedicated transmission control section 71 generates a CW dedicated transmission signal in accordance with a synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a, and transmits the CW dedicated transmission signal to the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 via the connector 19. The continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 transmits continuous wave ultrasonic waves from the transmission detection element 70a to the subject in accordance with the received CW dedicated transmission signal.

[0099] The CW dedicated reception control section 72 performs reception control of reflected ultrasonic waves reflected from the subject due to transmission of continuous wave ultrasonic waves to the subject in accordance with a synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a.

[0100] Further, when the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected in the connector 19, the image generation section 11a in the main control section 11 receives a detection signal output from the reception detection element 70b of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, and generates a CW Doppler image in accordance with the detection signal.

[0101] In addition, the CW dedicated transmission control section 71 and the CW dedicated reception control section 72 are provided with an electric circuit or the like that performs the above-described transmission and reception control.

[0102] The sub control section 12 controls transmission of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic probe 20 and reception of reflected ultrasonic waves reflected from the subject due to transmission of the ultrasonic waves to the subject, as in the first embodiment. Further, the sub control section 12 controls transmission of continuous wave ultrasonic waves from the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 and reception of reflected ultrasonic waves reflected from the subject due to transmission of the continuous wave ultrasonic waves to the subject, as described above. Further, the sub control section 12 controls emission of light from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, as in the first embodiment.

[0103] The structure of the synchronization signal generation section 12a and the clock signal generation section 12b in the sub control section 12 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0104] Further, the operation section 15 of the present embodiment receives ON and OFF operations of the continuous wave Doppler measurement mode and ON and OFF operations of the photoacoustic wave image mode.

[0105] When the operation unit 15 receives an ON operation for the continuous wave Doppler measurement mode, the synchronization signal generation unit 12a outputs a CW-specific transmission timing signal and a CW-specific reception timing signal, as described later, according to a preset control schedule. Furthermore, when the operation unit 15 receives an ON operation for the photoacoustic imaging mode, the synchronization signal generation unit 12a outputs a photoacoustic transmission timing signal according to a preset control schedule.

[0106] Next, the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 will be described. The continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 includes a transmitting detection element 70a, a receiving detection element 70b, an ID detection circuit 70c, and a fault detection circuit 70d.

[0107] The transmitting detection element 70a is composed of a piezoelectric element or the like, and transmits continuous wave ultrasonic waves to the test object. The receiving detection element 70b is also composed of a piezoelectric element or the like, and receives reflected ultrasonic waves reflected from the test object due to the transmission of continuous wave ultrasonic waves.

[0108] The ID detection circuit 70c includes a memory for storing ID information of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 and a reading circuit for reading ID information from the memory. Furthermore, when the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected to the connector 19 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 or after the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected, the ID detection circuit 70c outputs ID information to the sub-control unit 12 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 when the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 is started.

[0109] The sub-control unit 12 performs continuous wave Doppler measurement only when it receives the ID information of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70. Furthermore, as a method for detecting the connection of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, various known connection detection methods can be used, such as using optical sensors like optical couplers, or detection can be performed through mechanical structures.

[0110] Furthermore, the sub-control unit 12 performs continuous wave Doppler measurements only when the continuous wave Doppler measurement mode is selected in the operation unit 15 and the ID information of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is received. That is, the CW-dedicated transmit timing signal and the CW-dedicated receive timing signal are output from the synchronization signal generation unit 12a. Even if the continuous wave Doppler measurement mode is selected in the operation unit 15, the sub-control unit 12 will not output the CW-dedicated transmit timing signal and the CW-dedicated receive timing signal if ID information different from the ID information of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is received.

[0111] Specifically, for example, when the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 19 instead of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, the sub control section 12 does not receive the ID information of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, and thus does not output the CW dedicated transmission timing signal and the CW dedicated reception timing signal. Thus, it is possible to prevent malfunction of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 and erroneous emission of light from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60. In addition, in a case where the continuous wave Doppler measurement mode is selected in the operation section 15, when a device other than the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected to the connector 19, the sub control section 12 outputs this situation to the main control section 11, and the main control section 11 displays a warning message or the like on the display section 16.

[0112] When the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected to the connector 19 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or after the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected, at the time of startup of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or at the time of operation of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, the fault detection circuit 70d confirms whether or not there is a fault in the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70. As the fault detection of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, there is, for example, detection of short-circuit or opening of the wiring of the transmission detection element 70a and the reception detection element 70b. When a fault is detected by the fault detection circuit 70d, the detection signal is output to the main control section 11 via the sub control section 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, and the main control section 11 displays that a fault is detected on the display section 16.

[0113] Further, the ID detection circuit 70c and the fault detection circuit 70d in the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 are digitally controlled based on the clock signal generated in the clock signal generation section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Thus, by using the clock signal generation section 12b of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, it is not necessary to provide a clock signal generation section in the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, and thus miniaturization is possible.

[0114] Figure 11 is a timing chart showing the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a, the transmission timing of the continuous wave ultrasonic wave based on the synchronization signal, and the reception timing of the ultrasonic wave. In addition, the measurement of the ultrasonic image based on the ultrasonic probe 20 and the continuous wave Doppler measurement based on the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 are not performed at the same time, and thus only one of them is performed, and thus in Figure 11 , the ultrasonic transmission timing signal and the ultrasonic reception timing signal are in a state of zero.

[0115] Further, Figure 11The CW dedicated transmission timing signal is a synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the CW dedicated transmission control section 71 (corresponding to the second synchronization signal according to the present application), the CW dedicated reception timing signal is a synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a to the CW dedicated reception control section 72 (corresponding to the second synchronization signal according to the present application), the CW dedicated transmission signal is a control signal output from the CW dedicated transmission control section 71 to the transmission detection element 70a (corresponding to a signal generated based on the second synchronization signal according to the present application), and the CW dedicated reception signal is a control signal output from the CW dedicated reception control section 72 to the reception detection element 70b (corresponding to a signal generated based on the second synchronization signal according to the present application).

[0116] As shown in FIG. 6, the CW dedicated transmission timing signal and the CW dedicated reception timing signal are output at the same timing. The CW dedicated transmission control section 71 outputs a CW dedicated transmission signal composed of a continuous pulse wave to the transmission detection element 70a based on the input CW dedicated transmission timing signal. The transmission detection element 70a transmits an ultrasonic wave of a continuous wave to the subject based on the input CW dedicated transmission signal. Figure 11

[0117] On the other hand, the CW dedicated reception control section 72 outputs a CW dedicated reception signal to the reception detection element 70b based on the input CW dedicated reception timing signal. The reception detection element 70b continuously performs reception of an ultrasonic wave based on the CW dedicated reception signal. Furthermore, a detection signal detected by the reception detection element 70b is output to the main control section 11 after being received by the CW dedicated reception control section 72. Furthermore, in the image generation section 11a of the main control section 11, a continuous wave Doppler measurement image is generated based on the input detection signal, and is displayed on the display section 16.

[0118] Next, the operation when the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 19 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described. The structure of the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 itself is the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

[0119] In the present embodiment, a control signal (corresponding to a signal generated based on the second synchronization signal according to the present application) is output from the CW dedicated transmission control section 71 to the pulse generation circuit 60b based on the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generation section 12a, and the pulse generation circuit 60b generates a pulse signal based on the input control signal. Furthermore, the light source section 60a emits light in a pulse shape based on the pulse signal output from the pulse generation circuit 60b, similarly to the first embodiment. In addition, the CW dedicated transmission control section 71 outputs the above-described control signal using monopole transmission.

[0120] ​In the present embodiment, the ON and OFF operations of the photoacoustic wave image mode are also received by the operation section 15. When the ON operation of the photoacoustic wave image mode is received in the operation section 15, the synchronization signal generating section 12a outputs the synchronization signal in accordance with the control schedule set in advance. Also, in the photoacoustic wave image mode, the ultrasonic wave image measurement and the photoacoustic wave image measurement are alternately performed as in the first embodiment, but with respect to the synchronization signal output from the synchronization signal generating section 12a, the transmission timing of the ultrasonic wave based on the synchronization signal, the transmission timing of the photoacoustic wave, and the reception timing of the ultrasonic wave, the same as the timing chart shown in FIG. 8 is performed. Also, with respect to the functions of the ID detection circuit 70c and the failure detection circuit 70d in the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, the same as in the above-described embodiments is performed. Figure 6

[0121] In addition, when the ON operation of the photoacoustic wave image mode is received in the operation section 15, the continuous wave Doppler measurement is not performed.

[0122] Next, the connector 19 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described. Figure 12 a state in which the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is connected to the connector 19 is shown, Figure 13 a state in which the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 is connected to the connector 19 is shown. As Figure 12 Figure 13 The connector 19 of the present embodiment has five wires 19a to 19e as shown in FIG. 10.

[0123] The first wire 19a is a synchronization signal line (or also called a transmission signal line), and in the case of the continuous wave Doppler measurement mode, the CW dedicated transmission signal is transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the transmission detection element 70a through the first wire 19a. Also, in the case of the photoacoustic wave image mode, the photoacoustic wave transmission timing signal is transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the pulse generating circuit 60b through the first wire 19a.

[0124] The second wire 19b is a clock signal line, and the clock signal is supplied from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 through the second wire 19b.

[0125] The third wire 19c is a data line, and the ID information and the failure detection signal output from the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 are input to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 through the third wire 19c. Also, the ID information and the failure detection signal output from the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 are input to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 through the third wire 19c. In addition, in the case of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70, the ID information and the failure detection signal are transmitted in parallel through two wires as shown in FIG. 11. Figure 12 Figure 13 The third wire 19c is shown by one wire in FIG. 10, but it is preferable to provide two wires and perform parallel transmission. ​​​

[0126] The 4th wiring 19d is a ground wire, and supplies a ground potential from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 or the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 through the 4th wiring 19d.

[0127] The 5th wiring 19e is a detection signal line (or also called a reception signal line), and outputs a detection signal (or also called a reception signal) detected by the reception detection element 70b of the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 to the CW dedicated reception control section 72 through the 5th wiring 19e.

[0128] According to the ultrasonic diagnostic system 2 of the above-described 2nd embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 20 is controlled in accordance with the synchronization signal generated by the synchronization signal generation section 12a, and the connector 19 having the synchronization signal line that transmits the synchronization signal generated by the synchronization signal generation section 12a is provided, and the structure that both the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 can be connected to the connector 19 is provided, so that the space of the connector can be reduced, and thus miniaturization can be achieved. Further, deterioration of the electric safety and EMC performance caused by the increase of the connector can be prevented.

[0129] In addition, the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 is a circulatory organ diagnostic apparatus, and is not used simultaneously with the photoacoustic wave image (puncture) in the clinic, so that there is no big problem that the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 and the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60 are exclusively connected to the connector 19.

[0130] Further, in the above-described 1st and 2nd embodiments, the structure that two apparatuses can be connected to one connector is provided, but three or more apparatuses can be connected to one connector. For example, the structure that the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60, the electrocardiograph unit 30, and the continuous wave Doppler measurement probe 70 can be connected to one connector can be provided.

[0131] Further, in the above-described 1st and 2nd embodiments, one connector is shared by two apparatuses, but it is not limited thereto, and the connector 17 of the 1st embodiment or the connector 19 of the 2nd embodiment can be provided as a connector dedicated to the photoacoustic wave light source unit 60.

[0132] Further, in the above-described 1st and 2nd embodiments, as shown in Figure 6 , the photoacoustic wave is transmitted only once during one ultrasonic reception interval (between ultrasonic reception timing signals), but it is not limited thereto, and the structure that the photoacoustic wave is transmitted a plurality of times with a delay interval ΔT can be provided as shown in Figure 14 . The delay interval ΔT is, for example, 0.24 [μs] when it is set to 1540 [m / s] x 0.24 [μs] = 0.36 [mm]. Thus, in this case, as shown in Figure 15As shown, the image of the photoacoustic wave generation portion 61c at the front end of the puncture needle 61 is displayed as two images arranged in the depth direction at intervals of 0.36 [mm]. Thus, the recognition of the front end of the puncture needle 61 can be improved.

[0133] Further, the delay interval ΔT needs to ensure an interval in which the generation of the initial photoacoustic wave ends, and is preferably 0.05 μs or more. Also, the ultrasonic wave reception interval can be set to an interval in which one line of signals is detected by the ultrasonic probe 20, or can be set to an interval in which one frame of signals is detected by the ultrasonic probe 20.

[0134] Also, a photoacoustic image that is advanced by an amount corresponding to ΔT from a photoacoustic image detected by transmitting the photoacoustic wave multiple times with the delay interval ΔT set as described above can be generated, and an added photoacoustic image in which the original photoacoustic image and the photoacoustic image advanced in time are added can be generated. Also, with respect to the added photoacoustic image, threshold processing can be performed by using a threshold value of about half the maximum value, and signals below the threshold value can be set to half or less. Figure 16 A schematic view of the above-described processing arranged in time series is shown. Further, in Figure 16 the processing advances from left to right. Also, Figure 17 a shows a photoacoustic image detected by the transmission of the initial photoacoustic wave, Figure 17 b shows a photoacoustic image detected by the transmission of the second photoacoustic wave, Figure 17 c shows a photoacoustic image advanced by an amount corresponding to ΔT. Also, Figure 17 d shows a photoacoustic image after the above-described threshold processing is performed. Thus, the position of the front end of the puncture needle 61 can be more clearly displayed. Further, in the present embodiment, as shown in Figure 14 the transmission timing signal of the initial photoacoustic wave and the ultrasonic wave reception timing signal are the same timing, and thus the photoacoustic image based on the transmission of the initial photoacoustic wave represents the true front end of the puncture needle 61.

[0135] Also, the processing flow shown in Figure 16 is not limiting, and by performing correlation filtering processing, a photoacoustic image that is the same as the photoacoustic image generated by the processing shown in Figure 16 can be generated.

[0136] Also, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is configured to be mobile, but the present application is not limited to a mobile ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and can be applied to a stationary ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus as well.

[0137] Also, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the puncture needle 61 is used as an embodiment of the insert of the present application, but the present application is not limited to this. The insert can be a radiofrequency ablation needle that houses an electrode used in radiofrequency ablation inside, can be a catheter inserted into a blood vessel, or can be a guide wire of a catheter inserted into a blood vessel. Alternatively, it can be an optical fiber for laser therapy.

[0138] The above describes the present application according to preferred embodiments thereof, but the insert and the photoacoustic measurement apparatus of the present application are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes made to the structure of the above-described embodiments are also included in the scope of the present application.

[0139] Symbol explanation

[0140] 1, 2 - ultrasonic diagnostic system, 10 - ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, 11 - main control section, 11a - image generation section, 12 - sub control section, 12a - synchronization signal generation section, 12b - clock signal generation section, 12c - ECG processor, 13 - transmission control section, 14 - reception control section, 15 - operation section, 16 - display section, 17 - connector, 17a - first wiring, 17b - second wiring, 17c - third wiring, 17d - fourth wiring, 17e - fifth wiring, 18 - control substrate, 19 - connector, 19a - first wiring, 19b - second wiring, 19c - third wiring, 19d - fourth wiring, 19e - fifth wiring, 20 - ultrasonic probe, 30 - electrocardiograph unit, 30a - electrode set, 30b - amplification circuit, 30c - AD conversion circuit, 30d - ID detection circuit, 30e - failure detection circuit, 40 - memory, 41, 51 - USB connector, 50 - printer, 60 - photoacoustic wave light source unit, 60a - light source section, 60b - pulse generation circuit, 60c - ID detection circuit, 60d - failure detection circuit, 61 - puncture needle, 61a - puncture needle main body, 61b - optical fiber, 61c - photoacoustic wave generation section, 61c - photoacoustic wave generation section, 61d - hollow portion, 62 - optical cable, 70 - continuous wave Doppler measurement probe, 70a - transmission detection element, 70b - reception detection element, 70c - ID detection circuit, 70d - failure detection circuit, 71 - CW dedicated transmission control section, 72 - CW dedicated reception control section, ΔT - delay interval.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic device, comprising: The control unit has a processor that functions as a synchronization signal generation unit. The control unit controls the ultrasonic probe according to a first synchronization signal. The synchronization signal generation unit generates the first synchronization signal for controlling the transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves in the ultrasonic probe. The operation unit receives the operation of turning the ECG detection mode on and off, as well as the operation of turning the photoacoustic wave image mode on and off. The processor, which functions as an ultrasonic image generation unit, generates ultrasonic images based on signals detected by the ultrasonic probe; and The connector has a synchronization signal line for transmitting the second synchronization signal generated in the synchronization signal generation unit, and a data line for transmitting data independently of the synchronization signal line. The connector outputs the second synchronization signal to the outside via the synchronization signal line. The connector is configured to connect to a light source device that emits light to be incident on the insert, such that the second synchronization signal is output via the synchronization signal line, and the insert has a photoacoustic wave generating unit that absorbs the light to generate photoacoustic waves. The connector is also configured to connect to an electrocardiograph, which is different from the light source device and stores identification information for identifying the device. The control unit outputs the second synchronization signal corresponding to the electrocardiograph via the connector only when the ECG detection mode is selected in the operation unit, the identification information is obtained via the connector, and the electrocardiograph is detected to be connected based on the obtained identification information. When the ECG detection mode is selected in the operation unit, a warning message is output when a device other than the electrocardiograph is connected to the connector.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to claim 1, wherein, The light source device emits light according to the second synchronization signal.

3. The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The synchronization signal generation unit includes a clock signal generation unit that generates clock signals. The connector has a clock signal line that transmits the clock signal, and the connector outputs the clock signal to the outside via the clock signal line.

4. The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to claim 3, wherein, The processor constituting the ultrasonic image generation unit operates according to a clock signal that is different from the clock signal.

5. The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The synchronization signal generation unit generates the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal by emitting light multiple times during the period when the ultrasonic probe detects a line of signal.

6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The synchronization signal generation unit generates the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal by emitting light multiple times during the period when the ultrasonic probe detects one frame of signal.

7. The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, This ultrasound diagnostic device is a mobile type.

8. The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to claim 1, wherein, The connector is also configured to output a signal generated according to the second synchronization signal to the outside via the synchronization signal line.

Images