Shear wave based elastography system, method of use, and processor

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of ultrasound, in particular to a shear wave-based elastic imaging system, a use method and a processor. The shear wave elastic imaging probe acquires a first current pressure based on a first pressure sensor, and when the first current pressure meets a first preset pressure requirement, a first target ultrasonic signal is emitted to generate a target shear wave; the transient elastic imaging probe acquires a second current pressure based on a second pressure sensor, and when the second current pressure meets a second preset pressure requirement, a vibrator is used to apply low-frequency mechanical vibration to generate the target shear wave; the processor controls the selected probe to emit a second target ultrasonic signal to the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal after the selected probe generates the target shear wave; the echo signal is used to generate ultrasonic data, the ultrasonic data is processed, and the detection result of the target tissue is determined. The shear wave-based elastic imaging system is more convenient to use, and the detection efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ultrasound technology, and more specifically to an elastography system based on shear waves, a method of using it, and a processor. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of medical equipment, elastography has emerged. Elastography quantitatively estimates and images the distribution of elastic modulus in tissues. Currently, elastography has become a research hotspot in medical ultrasound imaging, and is widely used in the detection and evaluation of lesions caused by the breast, prostate, atherosclerotic plaques, myocardial dynamics, and high-intensity focused ultrasound and radiofrequency ablation.

[0003] Existing elastography systems typically include only one type of probe, requiring different systems for different tissues. This significantly limits the use of elastography systems and reduces detection efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention provide an elastic imaging system, a method of use, and a processor based on shear waves, aiming to solve the problems of the limited use of existing elastic imaging systems, which reduce detection efficiency and are inconvenient to operate.

[0005] According to a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a shear wave-based elastic imaging system. The shear wave-based elastic imaging system includes: a shear wave elastic imaging probe, a transient elastic imaging probe, and a processor. Both the shear wave elastic imaging probe and the transient elastic imaging probe are communicatively connected to the processor. The shear wave elastic imaging probe includes a first pressure sensor, and the transient elastic imaging probe includes a second pressure sensor and a vibrator, wherein:

[0006] A shear wave elastography probe is used to acquire a first current pressure applied to a target tissue based on a first pressure sensor, and allows the first current pressure to be adjusted under the control of a processor. When the first current pressure meets a first preset pressure requirement, a first target ultrasound signal is emitted to generate a target shear wave in the target tissue.

[0007] A transient elastography probe is used to acquire a second current pressure applied to the target tissue based on a second pressure sensor, and allows the second current pressure to be adjusted under the control of a processor. When the second current pressure meets a second preset pressure requirement, a vibrator is used to apply low-frequency mechanical vibration to the outer surface of the target tissue to generate a target shear wave within the target tissue.

[0008] The processor is configured to select a shear wave elastography probe and a transient elastography probe based on the target tissue, and to acquire a first current pressure and / or a second current pressure based on the selected probe, and to control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or control the transient elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure.

[0009] The processor is also used to control the selected probe to emit a second target ultrasound signal toward the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal after the selected probe generates a corresponding target shear wave; generate ultrasound data based on the echo signal, process the ultrasound data, and determine the detection result of the target tissue.

[0010] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention includes: a shear wave elastography probe, a transient elastography probe, and a processor. Both the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe are communicatively connected to the processor. The shear wave elastography probe includes a first pressure sensor, and the transient elastography probe includes a second pressure sensor and a vibrator. The shear wave elastography probe is used to acquire a first current pressure applied to the target tissue based on the first pressure sensor, and allows the first current pressure to be adjusted under the control of the processor. When the first current pressure meets a first preset pressure requirement, it emits a first target ultrasound signal to generate a target shear wave in the target tissue, thereby avoiding detection (e.g., elasticity detection) when the first current pressure applied to the target tissue is too high or too low. Furthermore, the transient elastography probe is used to acquire a second current pressure applied to the target tissue based on a second pressure sensor, and allows adjustment of the second current pressure under the control of the processor. When the second current pressure meets a second preset pressure requirement, a vibrator applies low-frequency mechanical vibration to the outer surface of the target tissue to generate a target shear wave within the target tissue. This also avoids detection (e.g., elasticity detection) when the second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the transient elastography probe is too high or too low. The processor is used to select between the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe based on the target tissue, and acquire a first current pressure and / or a second current pressure based on the selected probe. It controls the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or controls the transient elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure, ensuring the accuracy of the first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe, and also ensuring the accuracy of the second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the transient elastography probe. The processor is also used to control the selected probe to emit a second target ultrasound signal towards the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal after the selected probe generates a target shear wave; to generate ultrasound data based on the echo signal, and to process the ultrasound data to determine the detection result of the target tissue. The above-described shear wave-based elastography system can select a suitable probe to detect the target tissue. Furthermore, the system only performs detection when the pressure applied by the selected probe meets the detection requirements, thus ensuring the accuracy and stability of the detection results for the target tissue. Moreover, the above-described shear wave-based elastography system is more convenient to use, improving operator convenience and detection efficiency.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the first embodiment of the first aspect, the processor is configured to acquire the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue; and select the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe according to the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue.

[0012] In conjunction with the first embodiment of the first aspect, in the second embodiment of the first aspect, when the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is less than a preset range threshold and the detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, the processor determines to select the shear wave elastography probe.

[0013] In conjunction with the first embodiment of the first aspect, in the third embodiment of the first aspect, when the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold, the processor determines to select the transient elastic imaging probe.

[0014] In conjunction with the first embodiment of the first aspect, in the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, the target tissue includes a first detection area and a second detection area. The processor is configured to determine to select an instantaneous elastography probe when the first detection range corresponding to the first detection area of ​​the target tissue is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the first detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold; and when the second detection range corresponding to the second detection area of ​​the target tissue is less than a preset range threshold and the second detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, the processor determines to select a shear wave elastography probe.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, the shear wave elastography probe further includes: a sound head, a drive shaft, an elastic component, and a sensor bracket, wherein:

[0016] The sound head is used to contact the target tissue and emit a first target ultrasonic signal when the first current pressure reaches the first preset pressure requirement;

[0017] A drive shaft, mounted below the sound head, is used to transmit the initial pressure applied to the target tissue to the elastic component;

[0018] An elastic component, mounted below the drive shaft, is used to transmit the first current pressure to the first pressure sensor by means of deformation;

[0019] A first pressure sensor, installed below the elastic component, is used to detect the first current pressure;

[0020] A sensor bracket is installed below the first pressure sensor to support it.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, the shear wave-based elastic imaging system further includes: a prompting component, which is communicatively connected to a processor;

[0022] The processor is also configured to acquire a first preset pressure range for the target tissue corresponding to the shear wave elastography probe and a second preset pressure range for the target tissue corresponding to the instantaneous elastography probe; and to compare the first current pressure with the first maximum pressure and the first minimum pressure in the first preset pressure range, and to compare the second current pressure with the second maximum pressure and the second minimum pressure in the second preset pressure range; when the first current pressure is greater than the first maximum pressure or the second current pressure is greater than the second maximum pressure, the processor controls the prompting component to output a pressure too high warning; when the first current pressure is less than the first minimum pressure or the second current pressure is less than the second minimum pressure, the processor controls the prompting component to output a pressure too low warning.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, the shear wave elastic imaging probe further includes: a temperature sensor, which is connected to a communication processor, wherein:

[0024] Temperature sensor used to detect the temperature of the working environment of the shear wave elastography probe;

[0025] The processor is used to determine whether temperature drift has occurred based on the temperature of the working environment; if temperature drift is detected, the first current pressure is corrected.

[0026] According to a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for using a shear wave-based elastic imaging system, applied to the shear wave-based elastic imaging system in the first aspect or any embodiment of the first aspect, comprising:

[0027] Based on the target tissue, the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe are selected;

[0028] Based on the selected probe, obtain the first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe and / or the second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the instantaneous elastography probe, and adjust the first current pressure and / or the second current pressure.

[0029] After the selected probe generates the corresponding target shear wave, the selected probe is controlled to emit a second target ultrasound signal toward the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal.

[0030] Based on the echo signal, ultrasound data is generated; and the ultrasound data is processed to determine the detection results of the target tissue.

[0031] The method for using a shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention involves selecting a shear wave elastography probe and a transient elastography probe based on the target tissue, ensuring the accuracy of the selected probes. Based on the selected probes, a first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe and / or a second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the transient elastography probe are acquired. The first and / or second current pressures are adjusted to ensure their accuracy. After the selected probe generates a target shear wave, it is controlled to emit a second target ultrasound signal towards the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal. Ultrasound data is generated based on the echo signal, and the ultrasound data is processed to determine the detection result of the target tissue, ensuring the accuracy of the determined detection result.

[0032] According to a third aspect, embodiments of the present invention also provide a processor, which is installed in the shear wave-based elastography system of the first aspect or any embodiment of the first aspect. The processor is connected to a memory in the shear wave-based elastography system, the memory storing computer instructions. The processor executes the computer instructions to perform the method of using the shear wave-based elastography system of the second aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on shear waves provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on shear waves provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the method of using the shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the device for using the shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the processor provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0039] in:

[0040] 1. Shear wave elastography probe;

[0041] 11. First pressure sensor;

[0042] 2. Transient elastography probe;

[0043] 21. Second pressure sensor;

[0044] 22. Vibrator;

[0045] 3. Processor;

[0046] 4. Prompt component. Detailed Implementation

[0047] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0048] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can also refer to the internal connection of two components; and they can refer to a wireless connection or a wired connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0049] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the term "and / or" as used in this application specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0050] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0051] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0052] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, a shear wave-based elastic imaging system is provided. The system includes: a shear wave elastic imaging probe 1, a transient elastic imaging probe 2, and a processor 3. Both the shear wave elastic imaging probe 1 and the transient elastic imaging probe 2 are communicatively connected to the processor 3. The shear wave elastic imaging probe 1 includes a first pressure sensor 11, and the transient elastic imaging probe 2 includes a second pressure sensor 21 and a vibrator 22.

[0053] The shear wave elastography probe 1 is used to acquire a first current pressure applied to the target tissue based on a first pressure sensor 11, and allows the first current pressure to be adjusted under the control of the processor 3. When the first current pressure meets a first preset pressure requirement, it transmits a first target ultrasound signal to generate a target shear wave in the target tissue.

[0054] Specifically, the target tissue can be the breast, liver, thyroid, or other tissues to be tested.

[0055] Specifically, the shear wave elastography probe 1 can measure the first current pressure applied to the target tissue based on the first pressure sensor 11. When the first current pressure does not meet the first preset pressure requirement, the shear wave elastography probe 1 can adjust the first current pressure applied to the target tissue under the control of the processor 3, so that the first current pressure meets the first preset pressure requirement. When the first current pressure applied to the target tissue reaches the first preset pressure requirement, the ultrasonic transducer in the shear wave elastography probe 1 can be triggered to emit a first target ultrasonic signal to the target tissue to generate a target shear wave within the target tissue. When the first current pressure meets the first preset pressure requirement, no adjustment is required.

[0056] The instantaneous elastography probe 2 is used to acquire the second current pressure applied to the target tissue based on the second pressure sensor 21, and allows the second current pressure to be adjusted under the control of the processor 3. When the second current pressure meets the second preset pressure requirement, the vibrator 22 applies low-frequency mechanical vibration to the outer surface of the target tissue to generate a target shear wave in the target tissue.

[0057] Specifically, the transient elastography probe 2 can use the second pressure sensor 21 to measure the second current pressure applied to the target tissue. When the second current pressure does not meet the second preset pressure requirement, the transient elastography probe 2 can adjust the second current pressure applied to the target tissue under the control of the processor 3, so that the second current pressure meets the second preset pressure requirement. When the second current pressure applied to the target tissue reaches the second preset pressure requirement, the vibrator 22 in the transient elastography probe 2 can be triggered to apply low-frequency mechanical vibration to the outer surface of the target tissue to generate a target shear wave within the target tissue. Specifically, the low-frequency mechanical vibration can be low-frequency transient mechanical vibration. When the second current pressure meets the second preset pressure requirement, no adjustment is required.

[0058] It should be noted that the first preset pressure requirement and the second preset pressure requirement can be a preset pressure range or a preset pressure value; the first preset pressure requirement and the second preset pressure requirement can be the same or different, and the embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the first preset pressure requirement and the second preset pressure requirement.

[0059] The processor 3 is configured to select the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the transient elastography probe 2 according to the target tissue, and to obtain a first current pressure and / or a second current pressure according to the selected probe, and to control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or control the transient elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure.

[0060] Specifically, the processor 3 can identify the target tissue, such as by recognizing its depth, extent, and other characteristic parameters, and then select between the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the instantaneous elastography probe 2 based on the identified characteristic parameters. It can then obtain the current pressure applied to the target tissue by the selected probe. If the current pressure does not meet the corresponding preset pressure requirements, the processor controls the probe to rise or fall to adjust the current pressure applied to the target tissue.

[0061] Optionally, the processor 3 may select only the shear wave elastography probe 1 to detect the target tissue, or it may select only the transient elastography probe 2 to detect the target tissue, or it may select both the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the transient elastography probe 2 to detect the target tissue. In this embodiment, the processor 3 does not make specific limitations on selecting the shear wave elastography probe 1 and / or the transient elastography probe 2.

[0062] The processor 3 is also used to control the selected probe to emit a second target ultrasound signal to the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal after the selected probe generates a target shear wave; generate ultrasound data based on the echo signal, process the ultrasound data, and determine the detection result of the target tissue.

[0063] Specifically, after emitting a first target ultrasound signal and / or applying low-frequency mechanical vibration to the outer surface of the target tissue, the selected probe generates a corresponding shear wave within the target tissue. The selected probe also emits a second target ultrasound signal and receives the reflected echo signal. The second target ultrasound signal can track the propagation of the target shear wave; therefore, the received echo signal contains both shear wave information and ultrasound wave information. Based on the received echo signal, the processor obtains ultrasound data containing both shear wave and ultrasound wave information. Further processing of the ultrasound data yields the detection results of the target tissue.

[0064] If the selected probe is a shear wave elastography probe 1, when the first current pressure applied by the shear wave elastography probe to the target tissue meets the first preset pressure requirement, the shear wave elastography probe first transmits a first target ultrasound signal to the target tissue through an ultrasonic transducer to generate shear waves in the target tissue; then it transmits a second target ultrasound signal to the target tissue through an ultrasonic transducer and receives the echo signal reflected by the second target ultrasound signal.

[0065] If the selected probe is the transient elastography probe 2, when the second current pressure applied by the transient elastography probe to the target tissue meets the second preset pressure requirement, the transient elastography probe first applies low-frequency mechanical vibration to the outer surface of the target tissue through the vibrator to generate shear waves in the target tissue, and then transmits an ultrasonic signal (i.e., the second target ultrasonic signal) to the target tissue through the ultrasonic transducer and receives the echo signal reflected by the ultrasonic signal.

[0066] If the selected probes are shear wave elastography probe 1 and transient elastography probe 2 (i.e., both shear wave elastography probe 1 and transient elastography probe 2 are selected), then the two probes will each perform the above process and feed back the echo signals they acquire to the processor. The processor will process the echo signals fed back by each probe to generate corresponding ultrasound data.

[0067] In one optional embodiment of this application, when the processor 3 selects the shear wave elastography probe 1 to detect the target tissue, the ultrasound data generated by the processor can be at least one of a first ultrasound B-mode image, a first color Doppler ultrasound image, a first elastography image, and first radio frequency data corresponding to the first elastography. Then, the processor 3 processes at least one of the first ultrasound B-mode image, the first color Doppler ultrasound image, the first elastography image, and the first radio frequency data corresponding to the first elastography. The processing method can be selected according to the type of ultrasound data, thereby obtaining the detection result of the target tissue.

[0068] In another optional embodiment of this application, when the processor 3 selects the transient elastography probe 2 to detect the target tissue, the ultrasound data generated by the processor can be at least one of a second ultrasound B-mode image, a second color Doppler ultrasound image, a second elastography image, and the second radio frequency data corresponding to the second elastography. Then, the processor 3 processes the ultrasound data from at least one of the second ultrasound B-mode image, the second color Doppler ultrasound image, the second elastography image, and the second radio frequency data corresponding to the second elastography. The processing method can be selected according to the type of ultrasound data, thereby obtaining the detection result of the target tissue.

[0069] In another optional embodiment of this application, when the processor 3 selects both the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the transient elastography probe 2 to detect the target tissue, the processor 3 can generate corresponding ultrasound data based on the echo signals fed back by the two probes. The ultrasound data can be at least one of the following: a first ultrasound image (B-mode), a first color Doppler ultrasound image, a first elastography image, and first radio frequency data corresponding to the second target ultrasound signal emitted by the shear wave elastography probe; and at least one of the following: a second ultrasound image (B-mode), a second color Doppler ultrasound image, a second elastography image, and second radio frequency data corresponding to the second target ultrasound signal emitted by the transient elastography probe 2. The processor 3 processes the ultrasound data to obtain the detection result of the target tissue.

[0070] Specifically, when the ultrasound data is a B-mode ultrasound image or radiofrequency data, the detection results can include parameters representing scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution characteristics, such as scale parameters and shape factor parameters; when the ultrasound data is a color Doppler ultrasound image, the detection results can include parameters representing vascular morphology, such as blood flow velocity, blood flow velocity gradient, and degree of vascular tortuosity; when the ultrasound data is an elastography image, the detection results can include viscoelastic parameters representing the viscoelastic state, such as elastic modulus and viscosity parameters.

[0071] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention allows for the selection of appropriate probes based on the characteristics of the target tissue for detection. It is user-friendly and improves operator convenience and detection efficiency. Furthermore, the system only performs detection when the applied pressure of the selected probe meets the detection requirements, ensuring accurate and stable results even when operated by different personnel.

[0072] If the selected probe is a transient elastography probe, transient elastography is typically performed on the target tissue; if the selected probe is a shear wave elastography probe, shear wave elastography is typically performed on the target tissue. Shear wave elastography has limited penetration depth because its vibrations are generated by acoustic radiation force, while transient elastography has stronger vibrations, resulting in deeper shear wave propagation. Therefore, the appropriate probe can be selected based on the characteristics of the target tissue. For example, in liver tissue elastography applications, a shear wave elastography probe can be selected for measuring relatively superficial areas; for cases with ascites or tumors, a shear wave elastography probe can be selected because transient elastography is easily affected by interference; for homogeneous liver tissue with a large region of interest, a transient elastography probe can be selected; and for liver tissue with tumors or foreign bodies and a small region of interest, a shear wave elastography probe can be selected. This system can perform both types of elastography, catering to different detection needs.

[0073] In one embodiment of this application, the processor is further configured to analyze the detection results using a pre-established tissue assessment model to determine the assessment result of the target tissue. The assessment result can be a health assessment result, such as a health level assessment result, a health score assessment result, etc. Of course, the assessment result can also be other types of assessment results, and this application does not specifically limit the specific type.

[0074] When the test results include parameters representing scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution characteristics, analysis using a tissue assessment model can yield assessment results regarding tumor benignity / malignancy, degree of fibrosis, etc. When the test results include parameters representing vascular morphology, analysis using a tissue assessment model can yield assessment results regarding tumor benignity / malignancy, tissue metabolism, etc. When the test results include viscoelastic parameters representing viscoelastic state, analysis using a tissue assessment model can yield assessment results regarding the degree of quantitative fatty liver, the degree of quantitative fibrosis, etc.

[0075] In one embodiment of this application, the processor 3 is used to obtain the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue; and to select the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the instantaneous elastography probe 2 according to the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue.

[0076] Optionally, the processor 3 can receive the name of the target organization input by the user, and then determine the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target organization based on the name of the target organization; it can also receive the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target organization sent by the user or other devices. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the method by which the processor 3 obtains the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target organization.

[0077] After obtaining the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue, the processor 3 can identify the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue, and select the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the instantaneous elastography probe 2 based on the identification results of the detection range and detection depth corresponding to the target tissue.

[0078] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a processor 3, which acquires the detection range and depth corresponding to the target tissue, ensuring the accuracy of the determined detection range and depth. Then, based on the detection range and depth corresponding to the target tissue, a shear wave elastography probe 1 and a transient elastography probe 2 are selected, ensuring the accuracy of probe selection and thus guaranteeing the accuracy of detection.

[0079] In one optional embodiment of this application, when the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is less than a preset range threshold and the detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, the processor 3 determines to select the shear wave elastography probe 1.

[0080] Specifically, the processor 3 can compare the detection range corresponding to the target tissue with a preset range threshold and the detection depth corresponding to the target tissue with a preset depth threshold. When the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is less than the preset range threshold and the detection depth is less than the preset depth threshold, the processor 3 determines to select the shear wave elastography probe 1.

[0081] In one optional embodiment of this application, when the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold, the processor 3 determines to select the transient elastography probe 2.

[0082] Specifically, the processor 3 can compare the detection range corresponding to the target tissue with a preset range threshold and the detection depth corresponding to the target tissue with a preset depth threshold. When the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is greater than the preset range threshold and / or the detection depth is greater than the preset depth threshold, the processor 3 determines to select the instantaneous elastography probe 2.

[0083] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a processor 3 that, when the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is less than a preset range threshold and the detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, determines to select a shear wave elastography probe 1, ensuring the accuracy of the selected probe. The processor 3 is also configured to, when the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold, determine to select a transient elastography probe 2, ensuring the accuracy of the selected probe.

[0084] In one optional embodiment of this application, the target tissue includes a first detection area and a second detection area. The processor 3 is configured to select the instantaneous elastography probe 2 when the first detection range corresponding to the first detection area is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the first detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold; and to select the shear wave elastography probe 1 when the second detection range corresponding to the second detection area is less than a preset range threshold and the second detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold.

[0085] Specifically, when the target tissue includes a first detection area and a second detection area, wherein the first detection area may be larger than the second detection area, the processor 3 can acquire the first detection range and the first detection depth corresponding to the first detection area, and the second detection range and the second detection depth corresponding to the second detection area. Then, the processor 3 compares the first detection range with a preset range threshold and the first detection depth with a preset depth threshold. When the first detection range corresponding to the first detection area is greater than the preset range threshold and / or the first detection depth is greater than the preset depth threshold, the processor 3 determines to select the transient elastography probe 2. When the second detection range corresponding to the second detection area is less than the preset range threshold and the second detection depth is less than the preset depth threshold, the processor 3 determines to select the shear wave elastography probe 1.

[0086] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a first detection area and a second detection area for the target tissue. A processor 3 is configured to select an instantaneous elastography probe 2 when the first detection range corresponding to the first detection area is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the first detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold, thus ensuring the accuracy of the selected instantaneous elastography probe 2. When the second detection range corresponding to the second detection area is less than a preset range threshold and the second detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, the processor 3 selects a shear wave elastography probe 1, ensuring the accuracy of the selected shear wave elastography probe 1. This allows different probes to be used for different detection areas of the same target tissue, further ensuring the accuracy of the target tissue detection.

[0087] In one optional embodiment of this application, the shear wave elastography probe 1 further includes: a sound head, a drive shaft, an elastic component, and a sensor bracket, wherein:

[0088] The sound head is used to contact the target tissue and emit a first target ultrasonic signal when the first current pressure reaches the first preset pressure requirement.

[0089] A drive shaft, mounted below the sound head, is used to transmit the initial pressure applied to the target tissue to the elastic component.

[0090] An elastic component, mounted below the drive shaft, is used to transmit the first current pressure to the first pressure sensor by means of deformation.

[0091] Specifically, the elastic component can be a spring or a sheet, or other forms of elastic component; this application does not impose any specific limitations.

[0092] The first pressure sensor, installed below the elastic component, is used to detect the first current pressure.

[0093] A sensor bracket is installed below the first pressure sensor to support it.

[0094] Specifically, the acoustic probe contacts the detection area of ​​the target tissue and applies pressure to the detection area by pressing. When the current pressure applied to the target tissue (i.e., the first current pressure) reaches a first preset pressure requirement, the ultrasonic transducer in the acoustic probe can be triggered, and then a first target ultrasonic signal is emitted. The acoustic probe can also emit a second target ultrasonic signal through the ultrasonic transducer and receive the echo signal reflected from the second target ultrasonic signal.

[0095] Furthermore, the initial pressure applied to the target tissue by the sound head can be transmitted to an elastic component via a drive shaft. Under the pressure of the drive shaft, the elastic component deforms, thereby transmitting the initial pressure applied to the target tissue to a first pressure sensor. The first pressure sensor can measure the initial pressure applied to the target tissue. A sensor bracket, mounted below the first pressure sensor, is used to support the first pressure sensor.

[0096] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention includes a shear wave elastography probe 1 comprising: an acoustic head, a drive shaft, an elastic component, a first pressure sensor, and a sensor support. The acoustic head contacts the target tissue and emits a first target ultrasound signal when the first current pressure reaches a first preset pressure requirement, thus ensuring the emission of the first target ultrasound signal when the first current pressure reaches the first preset pressure requirement. The drive shaft, mounted below the acoustic head, transmits the first current pressure applied to the target tissue to the elastic component, ensuring that the first current pressure applied to the target tissue can be transmitted to the first pressure sensor for measurement. The elastic component, mounted below the drive shaft, transmits the first current pressure to the first pressure sensor through deformation, enabling the first pressure sensor to measure the first current pressure applied to the target tissue. The first pressure sensor, mounted below the elastic component, detects the first current pressure, ensuring the accuracy of the measured pressure value. The sensor support, mounted below the first pressure sensor, supports the first pressure sensor, ensuring the accuracy of the pressure value measured by the first pressure sensor.

[0097] In one optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the shear wave-based elastic imaging system also includes: a prompting component 4, which is communicatively connected to the processor 3;

[0098] The processor 3 is also used to acquire the first preset pressure range corresponding to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe 1 and the second preset pressure range corresponding to the target tissue by the instantaneous elastography probe 2; and to compare the first current pressure with the first maximum pressure and the first minimum pressure in the first preset pressure range, and to compare the second current pressure with the second maximum pressure and the second minimum pressure in the second preset pressure range; when the first current pressure is greater than the first maximum pressure or the second current pressure is greater than the second maximum pressure, the processor 3 controls the prompting component 4 to output a pressure too high warning; when the first current pressure is less than the first minimum pressure or the second current pressure is less than the second minimum pressure, the processor 3 controls the prompting component 4 to output a pressure too low warning.

[0099] Specifically, the processor 3 can receive the first preset pressure range of the shear wave elastography probe 1 for the target tissue and the second preset pressure range of the instantaneous elastography probe 2 for the target tissue input by the user; it can also receive the first preset pressure range of the shear wave elastography probe 1 for the target tissue and the second preset pressure range of the instantaneous elastography probe 2 for the target tissue sent by other devices; it can also query the first preset pressure range of the shear wave elastography probe 1 for the target tissue and the second preset pressure range of the instantaneous elastography probe 2 for the target tissue in the storage space. In this embodiment, the method by which the processor 3 obtains the first preset pressure range of the shear wave elastography probe 1 for the target tissue and / or the second preset pressure range of the instantaneous elastography probe 2 for the target tissue is not specifically limited.

[0100] Then, the processor 3 can compare the first current pressure with the first maximum pressure and the first minimum pressure in the first preset pressure range, and compare the second current pressure with the second maximum pressure and the second minimum pressure in the second preset pressure range. When the first current pressure is greater than the first maximum pressure or the second current pressure is greater than the second maximum pressure, the processor 3 controls the prompt component 4 to output a pressure too high reminder.

[0101] When the first current pressure is less than the first minimum pressure or the second current pressure is less than the second minimum pressure, control prompt component 4 will output a low pressure warning.

[0102] The prompt component 4 is used to output a reminder for excessive pressure or insufficient pressure under the control of the processor 3.

[0103] Optionally, the prompting component 4 can output reminders of excessive or insufficient pressure via voice prompts, text prompts, or other means. This embodiment of the application does not specifically limit the method by which the prompting component 4 outputs reminders of excessive or insufficient pressure.

[0104] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a processor 3, which is further configured to acquire a first preset pressure range corresponding to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe 1 and / or a second preset pressure range corresponding to the target tissue by the instantaneous elastography probe 2, ensuring the accuracy of the acquired first preset pressure range and / or second preset pressure range. The system compares the first current pressure with the first maximum pressure and the first minimum pressure within the first preset pressure range and / or compares the second current pressure with the second maximum pressure and the second minimum pressure within the second preset pressure range, ensuring the accuracy of the comparison results. When the first current pressure is greater than the first maximum pressure and / or the second current pressure is greater than the second maximum pressure, the system controls the prompting component 4 to output a pressure overload warning, ensuring the accuracy of the output pressure overload warning; when the first current pressure is less than the first minimum pressure and / or the second current pressure is less than the second minimum pressure, the system controls the prompting component 4 to output a pressure underload warning, ensuring the accuracy of the output pressure underload warning.

[0105] The prompt component 4 is used to output excessive pressure or insufficient pressure reminders under the control of the processor 3, ensuring that users can receive such reminders.

[0106] In an optional embodiment of this application, the shear wave elastic imaging probe further includes: a temperature sensor; the temperature sensor is communicatively connected to the processor, wherein:

[0107] Temperature sensor used to detect the temperature of the working environment of the shear wave elastography probe;

[0108] The processor is used to determine whether temperature drift has occurred based on the temperature of the working environment, and if temperature drift is detected, it corrects the first current pressure.

[0109] Specifically, the processor can determine whether temperature drift has occurred by judging whether the detected operating environment temperature meets the preset operating environment temperature range. If it does, then no temperature drift has occurred; if it does not, then temperature drift has occurred, and the first current pressure is then corrected.

[0110] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this application embodiment detects the temperature of the working environment by setting a temperature sensor, and then determines whether temperature drift will occur that affects the detection result of the first current pressure based on the temperature. If temperature drift is detected, the first current pressure is corrected to ensure the accuracy of the first current pressure detection.

[0111] To better illustrate the shear wave-based elastography system provided in this application, this application provides an overall flow of a method for using the shear wave-based elastography system, applicable to any of the shear wave-based elastography systems described above, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the method includes:

[0112] S51. Select the shear wave elastography probe and the instantaneous elastography probe according to the target tissue.

[0113] S52. Based on the selected probe, obtain the first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe and / or the second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the instantaneous elastography probe, and control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or control the instantaneous elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure.

[0114] S53. After the selected probe generates the target shear wave, control the selected probe to emit a second target ultrasound signal toward the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal.

[0115] Specifically, when the current pressure of the selected probe meets the corresponding preset pressure requirements, the selected probe is controlled to generate a target shear wave.

[0116] S54. Generate ultrasound data based on the echo signal, process the ultrasound data, and determine the detection results of the target tissue.

[0117] For an introduction to the usage of shear wave-based elastography systems, please refer to the above introduction to shear wave-based elastography systems; it will not be repeated here.

[0118] The method for using a shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention involves selecting a shear wave elastography probe and a transient elastography probe based on the target tissue, ensuring the accuracy of the selected probes. Based on the selected probes, a first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe and / or a second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the transient elastography probe are obtained. The shear wave elastography probe is controlled to adjust the first current pressure and / or the transient elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure, ensuring the accuracy of the first and / or second current pressures. After the selected probe generates a corresponding target shear wave, the selected probe is controlled to emit a second target ultrasound signal to the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal. Ultrasound data is generated based on the echo signal, and the ultrasound data is processed to determine the detection result of the target tissue, ensuring the accuracy of the determined detection result.

[0119] It should be understood that, although Figure 3 The steps in the flowchart are shown sequentially as indicated by the arrows, but these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless otherwise specified herein, there is no strict order in which these steps are executed, and they can be performed in other orders. Figure 3 At least some of the steps in the process may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but may be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but may be executed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages in other steps.

[0120] like Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment provides an apparatus for using an elastic imaging system based on shear waves, including:

[0121] Selection module 61 is used to select between shear wave elastography probe and transient elastography probe based on the target tissue.

[0122] The acquisition module 62 is used to acquire, according to the selected probe, a first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe and / or a second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the instantaneous elastography probe, and to control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or control the instantaneous elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure.

[0123] Control module 63 is used to control the selected probe to emit a second target ultrasound signal toward the target tissue and receive the reflected echo signal after the selected probe generates a target shear wave.

[0124] The processing module 64 is used to generate ultrasound data based on the echo signal, process the ultrasound data, and determine the detection results of the target tissue.

[0125] For specific limitations and beneficial effects regarding the device for using the shear wave-based elastography system, please refer to the limitations on the usage method of the shear wave-based elastography system described above, which will not be repeated here. Each module in the aforementioned device for using the shear wave-based elastography system can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in or independent of the processor in hardware form, or stored in the processor's memory in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0126] This invention also provides a processor having the above-described features. Figure 4 The apparatus shown is used in the shear wave-based elastic imaging system.

[0127] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a processor provided in an optional embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the processor may include: at least one processor 71, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one communication interface 73, memory 74, and at least one communication bus 72. The communication bus 72 is used to implement communication between these components. The communication interface 73 may include a display screen or a keyboard; optionally, the communication interface 73 may also include a standard wired interface or a wireless interface. The memory 74 may be high-speed RAM (Random Access Memory) or non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device. Optionally, the memory 74 may also be at least one storage device located remotely from the aforementioned processor 71. The processor 71 may be combined with... Figure 4 The described apparatus has an application program stored in memory 74, and the processor 71 calls the program code stored in memory 74 to perform any of the above method steps.

[0128] The communication bus 72 can be a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus or an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, etc. The communication bus 72 can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus, etc. For ease of representation, Figure 5 The bus is represented by a single thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0129] The memory 74 may include volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM); the memory may also include non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD); the memory 74 may also include a combination of the above types of memory.

[0130] The processor 71 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), or a combination of CPU and NP.

[0131] The processor 71 may further include a hardware chip. This hardware chip may be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a combination thereof. The PLD may be a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a generic array logic (GAL), or any combination thereof.

[0132] Optionally, memory 74 is also used to store program instructions. Processor 71 can call the program instructions to implement the functions described in this application. Figure 3 The method of using the shear wave-based elastic imaging system shown in the embodiments.

[0133] This invention also provides a non-transitory computer storage medium storing computer-executable instructions that can execute the shear wave-based elastic imaging system usage method in any of the above method embodiments. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), or solid-state drive (SSD), etc.; the storage medium may also include combinations of the above types of memory.

[0134] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A shear wave based elastography system, characterized by, The shear wave-based elastography system comprises a shear wave elastography probe, a transient elastography probe and a processor, the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe are in communication connection with the processor, the shear wave elastography probe comprises a first pressure sensor, the transient elastography probe comprises a second pressure sensor and a vibrator, wherein: The shear wave elastography probe is configured to acquire a first current pressure applied to a target tissue based on the first pressure sensor, and allow the first current pressure to be adjusted under the control of the processor, and transmit a target ultrasonic signal to generate a target shear wave in the target tissue when the first current pressure meets a first preset pressure requirement. The transient elastography probe is configured to acquire a second current pressure applied to a target tissue based on the second pressure sensor, and allow the second current pressure to be adjusted under the control of the processor, and apply a low-frequency mechanical vibration to the surface of the target tissue using the vibrator to generate a target shear wave in the target tissue when the second current pressure meets a second preset pressure requirement. The processor is configured to select the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe according to the target tissue, and acquire the first current pressure and / or the second current pressure, control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or control the transient elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure. The processor is further configured to track the target ultrasonic signal and / or the target shear wave according to the selection of the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe, generate ultrasonic data, and process the ultrasonic data to determine a processing result corresponding to the target tissue. The processor is configured to acquire a detection range and a detection depth corresponding to the target tissue, and select the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe according to the detection range and the detection depth corresponding to the target tissue.

2. The shear wave based elastography system of claim 1, wherein, When the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is less than a preset range threshold and the detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, the processor determines to select the shear wave elastography probe.

3. The shear wave based elastography system of claim 1, wherein, When the detection range corresponding to the target tissue is greater than a preset range threshold and / or the detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold, the processor determines to select the transient elastography probe.

4. The shear wave based elastography system of claim 1, wherein, The target tissue comprises a first detection area and a second detection area, and the processor is configured to determine to select the transient elastography probe when a first detection range corresponding to the first detection area is greater than a preset range threshold and / or a first detection depth is greater than a preset depth threshold. When a second detection range corresponding to the second detection area is less than a preset range threshold and a second detection depth is less than a preset depth threshold, the processor determines to select the shear wave elastography probe.

5. The shear wave based elastography system of claim 1, wherein, The shear wave elastography probe further comprises a sound head, a transmission shaft, a pre-pressing elastic sheet and a sensor support. The acoustic head is used to contact the target tissue and emit the target ultrasonic signal and receive the corresponding echo signal when the first current pressure reaches the first preset pressure requirement; The transmission shaft is installed below the acoustic head and is used to transmit the first current pressure applied to the target tissue to the pre-pressing spring; The pre-pressing spring is installed below the transmission shaft and is used to transmit the first current pressure to the first pressure sensor in a deformed manner; The first pressure sensor is installed below the pre-pressing spring and is used to detect the first current pressure; The sensor support is installed below the first pressure sensor and is used to support the first pressure sensor.

6. The shear wave based elastography system of claim 1, wherein, The shear wave-based elastography system further comprises a prompting component in communication with the processor; The processor is further configured to acquire a first preset pressure range corresponding to the target tissue for the shear wave elastography probe and a second preset pressure range corresponding to the target tissue for the transient elastography probe; compare the first current pressure with a first maximum pressure and a first minimum pressure in the first preset pressure range, and compare the second current pressure with a second maximum pressure and a second minimum pressure in the second preset pressure range; when the first current pressure is greater than the first maximum pressure or the second current pressure is greater than the second maximum pressure, control the prompting component to output an overpressure reminder; and when the first current pressure is less than the first minimum pressure or the second current pressure is less than the second minimum pressure, control the prompting component to output an underpressure reminder.

7. The shear wave based elastography system of claim 1, wherein, The shear wave elastography probe further comprises a temperature sensor connected to the processor, wherein: The temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature of the working environment of the shear wave elastography probe; The processor is configured to determine whether the temperature of the working environment has drifted and correct the first current pressure when the temperature drift is determined to have occurred.

8. A method of using a shear wave-based elastography system, characterized by, The shear wave-based elastography system of any one of claims 1-7, comprising: selecting a shear wave elastography probe and a transient elastography probe according to a target tissue; acquiring a first current pressure applied to the target tissue by the shear wave elastography probe and / or a second current pressure applied to the target tissue by the transient elastography probe, and controlling the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first current pressure and / or controlling the transient elastography probe to adjust the second current pressure; tracking a target shear wave generated by the shear wave elastography probe and / or the transient elastography probe according to the selection of the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe, and generating ultrasonic data; processing the ultrasonic data to determine a processing result corresponding to the target tissue; wherein the selection of the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe according to a target tissue comprises: The detection range and the detection depth corresponding to the target tissue are acquired, and the shear wave elastography probe and the transient elastography probe are selected according to the detection range and the detection depth corresponding to the target tissue.

9. A processor, comprising: The processor is installed in the shear wave-based elastography system in any one of claims 1-7, and is connected with a memory in the shear wave-based elastography system, wherein the memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the computer instructions to perform the shear wave-based elastography system use method in claim 8.

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