High-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system and method

Abstract

The invention provides a high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system and method, and the method comprises the steps: determining the layout parameters of a dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging demands, and determining the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters, controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite a high-frequency array to emit ultrasonic waves to a target medium according to the working parameters to obtain an ultrasonic image, controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite a low-frequency array to emit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters to excite shear waves in a region of interest of the target medium to obtain a shear wave image; on the basis of a high-frequency array, ultrasonic waves are emitted to a region of interest, the shear wave speed is detected, an elastic image is formed, shear wave excitation and ultrasonic image imaging are performed by using arrays with different frequencies, high and low frequency detection on a detection region by using a double-frequency probe is realized, and the situation that the detection region cannot be accurately found again due to probe switching is avoided; and the accuracy of medical image detection is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of ultrasonic imaging, and in particular to a system and method for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging. Background Art

[0002] Ultrasound elastography is a medical imaging technique that provides information about the physical characteristics of tissues (such as hardness, viscoelasticity, etc.) by measuring the response of tissues to stress or compression, thereby helping doctors diagnose and monitor various diseases. Shear wave elastography is a type of elastography that assesses the hardness of tissues by applying shear force to the tissue and measuring the propagation speed of the generated shear wave to calculate the Young's modulus of the tissue. The harder the tissue, the faster the shear wave propagates; the softer the tissue, the slower the shear wave propagates. Two-dimensional shear wave elastography has a wide range of scientific research and clinical applications in medical diagnosis.

[0003] Two-dimensional shear wave elastography is a technology that uses acoustic radiation force to generate shear waves in tissues and then obtains the shear wave velocity through ultrasonic detection. In a certain medium, the higher the frequency, the lower the absorption coefficient, the lower the acoustic radiation force, and the less likely it is to excite shear waves. Therefore, it is difficult for high-frequency probes to reach the ideal shear wave excitation depth.

[0004] Therefore, in clinical practice, a high-resolution high-frequency probe is often used to detect suspicious lesions first, and then a low-frequency probe is used to check the hardness information. However, this often results in the inability to accurately find the suspicious lesions again due to switching probes. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention provides a system and method for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, which are used to solve the problems raised in the background technology.

[0006] A high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging system, comprising:

[0007] A layout determination module, used to determine layout parameters for the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determine working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters;

[0008] An ultrasonic imaging module, used for controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, so as to obtain an ultrasonic image;

[0009] A shear wave module, used for controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, and exciting shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium;

[0010] An elastic imaging module, which is used to transmit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest based on a high-frequency array, detect the shear wave velocity, and form an elastic image;

[0011] The synthesis display module is used to synthesize and display the ultrasound image and the elasticity image according to the selected display rules.

[0012] Preferably, the layout determination module includes:

[0013] An arrangement determination unit, used to determine a high-frequency arrangement of a high-frequency array probe and a low-frequency arrangement of a low-frequency array probe in a dual-frequency array probe based on a resolution requirement in a medical imaging requirement;

[0014] A frequency determination unit, used for determining a high-frequency probe frequency and a low-frequency probe frequency based on an examination item in a medical imaging requirement;

[0015] A shape determination unit, used to determine the array shape of the dual-frequency array probe based on the examination depth in the medical imaging requirements;

[0016] An angle determination unit, used to determine the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe based on elastic imaging requirements in medical imaging requirements;

[0017] A mode determination unit, used to determine the working mode of the low-frequency array probe based on the application scenario in the medical imaging requirements, and the working modes include single excitation and gating;

[0018] A parameter setting unit is used to set the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe, the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency, the shape of the array in the frequency array probe, the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, and the working mode of the low-frequency array probe.

[0019] Preferably, the angle determination unit comprises:

[0020] An initial setting unit, used to set the transmission parameters and receiving parameters of the low-frequency array probe and the initial angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements;

[0021] The transmitting and receiving unit is used to transmit ultrasonic waves to a predetermined target area using a low-frequency array probe according to the transmitting parameters, capture echo information through the receiving parameters, and generate an initial ultrasonic image;

[0022] An adjustment unit, used to gradually adjust the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe according to a preset increment, and obtain a contrast ultrasound image at each adjusted angle;

[0023] The determination unit is used to obtain the clarity and grayscale value of the contrast ultrasound image under each adjustment angle, and compare the clarity and grayscale values ​​of all contrast ultrasound images to obtain the angle corresponding to the highest clarity and the maximum sum of grayscale values ​​as the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe.

[0024] Preferably, the ultrasonic imaging module comprises:

[0025] An information determination unit, used to determine the detection depth and detection focus of the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters, select the dual-frequency array probe to enter the high-resolution shear wave elastic imaging mode, and determine parameter control information in the ultrasound imaging mode based on the working parameters;

[0026] An excitation unit, used to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium through array switching based on parameter control information;

[0027] The image generating unit is used to receive the echo signal reflected by the target medium after receiving the ultrasonic wave, and generate the ultrasonic image based on the echo information.

[0028] Preferably, the shear wave module comprises:

[0029] A low-frequency transmitting unit, used to stimulate the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium through array switching according to the working parameters;

[0030] A shear wave unit is used to excite shear waves in a region of interest of a target medium by mode switching.

[0031] Preferably, the elastic imaging module comprises:

[0032] A switching transmitting unit is used to determine a shear wave velocity detection parameter based on the working parameter, and to transmit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest by exciting the high-frequency array through array switching according to the shear wave velocity detection parameter;

[0033] The elastic imaging unit performs elastic imaging calculation based on the echo information of the ultrasound in the region of interest to obtain the shear wave velocity, and generates an elastic image based on the shear wave velocity.

[0034] Preferably, the synthetic display module comprises:

[0035] A rule determination unit, used to determine a selected display rule selected by a user;

[0036] The display unit is used to display the ultrasound image and the elasticity image according to the selected display rule.

[0037] Preferably, the display unit comprises:

[0038] A judging unit, used for judging whether the selected display rule is to be displayed separately;

[0039] If so, display the ultrasound image or the elasticity image according to the separate display type;

[0040] Otherwise, the ultrasound image and the elasticity image are compositely displayed;

[0041] The synthesis unit is used to synthesize the ultrasonic image and the elasticity image according to a preset synthesis rule, and verify and correct the synthesized image based on the standard image features to obtain a target synthesized image.

[0042] Preferably, a method for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography comprises:

[0043] S1: Determine layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determine working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters;

[0044] S2: controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters to obtain an ultrasonic image;

[0045] S3: controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, thereby exciting shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium;

[0046] S4: Based on the high-frequency array, ultrasonic waves are emitted to the area of ​​interest, the shear wave velocity is detected, and an elastic image is formed;

[0047] S5: The ultrasound image and the elasticity image are synthesized and displayed according to the selected display rule.

[0048] Preferably, in S1, based on medical imaging requirements, determining the layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe, and determining the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters, includes:

[0049] Based on the resolution requirements in medical imaging needs, determine the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe in the dual-frequency array probe;

[0050] Determine the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency based on the examination items in the medical imaging requirements;

[0051] Determine the array shape of the dual-frequency array probe based on the examination depth in medical imaging requirements;

[0052] Based on the elastic imaging requirements in medical imaging requirements, determine the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe;

[0053] Based on the application scenarios in medical imaging requirements, determine the working mode of the low-frequency array probe, which includes single excitation and gating;

[0054] The working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe are set based on the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe, the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency, the shape of the array in the frequency array probe, the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, and the working mode of the low-frequency array probe.

[0055] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has achieved the following beneficial effects:

[0056] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be described in the following description, and partly become apparent from the description, or understood by practicing the present invention. The purpose and other advantages of the present invention can be realized and obtained by the structures specifically pointed out in this application document.

[0057] The technical solution of the present invention is further described in detail below through the accompanying drawings and embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] The accompanying drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention and constitute a part of the specification. Together with the embodiments of the present invention, they are used to explain the present invention and do not constitute a limitation of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:

[0059] Figure 1 A structural diagram of a high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 2 is a structural diagram of the ultrasonic imaging module described in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 3 This is a flow chart of a method for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 4 A structural diagram of an array arrangement in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 5 A structural diagram of an array shape in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 6 4 is a structural diagram of the array working mode in an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments described herein are only used to illustrate and explain the present invention, and are not used to limit the present invention.

[0066] Embodiment 1:

[0067] The embodiment of the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, such as Figure 1 As shown, including:

[0068] A layout determination module, used to determine layout parameters for the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determine working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters;

[0069] An ultrasonic imaging module, used for controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, so as to obtain an ultrasonic image;

[0070] A shear wave module, used for controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, and exciting shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium;

[0071] An elastic imaging module, which is used to transmit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest based on a high-frequency array, detect the shear wave velocity, and form an elastic image;

[0072] The synthesis display module is used to synthesize and display the ultrasound image and the elasticity image according to the selected display rules.

[0073] The beneficial effects of the above design scheme are: by determining the layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determining the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters, it is possible to design the optimal array parameters and arrangement method according to the requirements, control the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters to excite the high-frequency array to emit ultrasonic waves to the target medium to obtain an ultrasonic image, control the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters to excite the low-frequency array to emit ultrasonic waves to the target medium, excite shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium, emit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest based on the high-frequency array, detect the shear wave velocity, and form an elastic image, and use arrays of different frequencies to perform shear wave excitation and ultrasonic imaging, so as to use the dual-frequency probe to perform high and low frequency detection of the detection area, avoid the inability to accurately find the detection area again due to switching probes, and achieve accuracy in medical image detection.

[0074] Embodiment 2:

[0075] Based on Example 1, the embodiment of the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, wherein the layout determination module includes:

[0076] An arrangement determination unit, used to determine a high-frequency arrangement of a high-frequency array probe and a low-frequency arrangement of a low-frequency array probe in a dual-frequency array probe based on a resolution requirement in a medical imaging requirement;

[0077] A frequency determination unit, used for determining a high-frequency probe frequency and a low-frequency probe frequency based on an examination item in a medical imaging requirement;

[0078] A shape determination unit, used to determine the array shape of the dual-frequency array probe based on the examination depth in the medical imaging requirements;

[0079] An angle determination unit, used to determine the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe based on elastic imaging requirements in medical imaging requirements;

[0080] A mode determination unit, used to determine the working mode of the low-frequency array probe based on the application scenario in the medical imaging requirements, and the working modes include separate excitation and connection;

[0081] A parameter setting unit is used to set the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe, the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency, the shape of the array in the frequency array probe, the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, and the working mode of the low-frequency array probe.

[0082] In this embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown in the figure, in order to achieve dual-frequency imaging, the probe design uses a multi-row array probe that supports both high and low frequencies, enabling it to provide high-resolution imaging at high frequencies while generating sufficient shear wave penetration at low frequencies. Regarding the arrangement: low-frequency F l On both sides, the high frequency F h In the middle; the high-frequency array can be 1 column or 3 columns. When it is 3 columns, the focus can be adjusted in the Z plane to improve the spatial resolution and contrast.

[0083] In this embodiment, the probe frequency is selected between 1-30MHz. For example, for urinary system examination, the high frequency can be selected as 20MHz and the low frequency can be selected as 5MHz; for breast examination, the high frequency can be selected as 8MHz and the low frequency can be selected as 4MHz.

[0084] In this embodiment, if Figure 5 As shown, the shape of the array can be linear, convex or phased array, as shown in the figure below. Choosing the right probe shape is crucial for different application scenarios. Linear arrays are suitable for imaging superficial organs, convex arrays are suitable for imaging deep tissues, and phased arrays have more flexible imaging range and angle adjustment capabilities, which are suitable for complex structures or areas that require dynamic observation.

[0085] In this embodiment, it is crucial to consider how to flexibly control the excitation and gating of the low-frequency array in the design. This may involve the optimization of hardware circuit design and software control system to achieve dynamic switching and adjustment of different arrays. The low-frequency array can be excited or gated individually, or it can be connected up and down and regarded as one array element for excitation or gating, such as Figure 6 As shown, separate selection can obtain more flexible excitation direction, and connecting up and down can save the number of channels, which depends on the application scenario.

[0086] The beneficial effect of the above design scheme is: by determining the layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determining the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters, it is possible to design the optimal array parameters and arrangement method according to the requirements, providing a basis for accurate imaging.

[0087] Embodiment 3:

[0088] Based on Example 2, an embodiment of the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, wherein the angle determination unit includes:

[0089] An initial setting unit, used to set the transmission parameters and receiving parameters of the low-frequency array probe and the initial angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements;

[0090] The transmitting and receiving unit is used to transmit ultrasonic waves to a predetermined target area using a low-frequency array probe according to the transmitting parameters, capture echo information through the receiving parameters, and generate an initial ultrasonic image;

[0091] An adjustment unit, used to gradually adjust the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe according to a preset increment, and obtain a contrast ultrasound image at each adjusted angle;

[0092] The determination unit is used to obtain the clarity and grayscale value of the contrast ultrasound image under each adjustment angle, and compare the clarity and grayscale values ​​of all contrast ultrasound images to obtain the angle corresponding to the highest clarity and the maximum sum of grayscale values ​​as the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe.

[0093] The beneficial effects of the above design scheme are: by using a low-frequency array probe to transmit ultrasonic waves to a predetermined target area according to the transmission parameters, the echo information is captured by receiving parameters, an initial ultrasonic image is generated, and the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe is gradually adjusted according to the preset increments, and a contrast ultrasonic image is obtained at each adjusted angle, and the clarity and grayscale value of the contrast ultrasonic image at each adjusted angle are obtained, and the clarity and grayscale values ​​of all contrast ultrasonic images are compared, and the angle corresponding to the highest clarity and the maximum sum of grayscale values ​​is obtained as the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, providing a basis for ensuring the clarity of ultrasonic imaging.

[0094] Embodiment 4:

[0095] Based on Example 1, the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, such as Figure 2 As shown, the ultrasonic imaging module includes:

[0096] An information determination unit, used to determine the detection depth and detection focus of the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters, select the dual-frequency array probe to enter the high-resolution shear wave elastic imaging mode, and determine parameter control information in the ultrasound imaging mode based on the working parameters;

[0097] An excitation unit, used to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium through array switching based on parameter control information;

[0098] The image generating unit is used to receive the echo signal reflected by the target medium after receiving the ultrasonic wave, and generate the ultrasonic image based on the echo information.

[0099] In this embodiment, if a color Doppler image is needed, the high frequency array can be used for transmission and reception in the same way as described above to form a color Doppler image.

[0100] The beneficial effect of the above design scheme is that the generated image of the detection area is obtained by array switching, providing an ultrasonic image basis for further high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging.

[0101] Embodiment 5:

[0102] Based on Example 1, the embodiment of the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, wherein the shear wave module comprises:

[0103] A low-frequency transmitting unit, used to stimulate the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium through array switching according to the working parameters;

[0104] A shear wave unit is used to excite shear waves in a region of interest of a target medium by mode switching.

[0105] The beneficial effect of the above design is that shear waves are excited in the region of interest of the target medium through mode switching, providing a basis for shear wave elastic imaging.

[0106] Embodiment 6:

[0107] Based on Example 1, the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, wherein the elastic imaging module comprises:

[0108] A switching transmitting unit is used to determine a shear wave velocity detection parameter based on the working parameter, and to transmit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest by exciting the high-frequency array through array switching according to the shear wave velocity detection parameter;

[0109] The elastic imaging unit performs elastic imaging calculation based on the echo information of the ultrasound in the region of interest to obtain the shear wave velocity, and generates an elastic image based on the shear wave velocity.

[0110] In this embodiment, two-dimensional shear wave elastography is a technique that uses acoustic radiation force to generate shear waves in tissues and then obtains the shear wave velocity through ultrasonic detection. The magnitude of the acoustic radiation force can be estimated by the following formula:

[0111] F=2αI / c

[0112] in:

[0113] F is the acoustic radiation force

[0114] α is the absorption coefficient of the medium

[0115] I is the intensity of the ultrasound

[0116] C is the speed of sound in the medium

[0117] From the perspective of clinical application, the intensity I of ultrasound waves is subject to standard limits due to the mechanical and thermal effects of sound waves, and c is determined, so a lower absorption coefficient can result in a higher acoustic radiation force. The absorption coefficient α of the medium is related to the frequency f. Generally speaking, the absorption coefficient increases with increasing frequency. The specific relationship can be expressed as:

[0118] α∝f n

[0119] Where n is an index related to the properties of the medium, usually between 1 and 2.

[0120] This means that at high frequencies, the energy loss of the sound wave in the medium is lower, resulting in a larger acoustic radiation force. Therefore, by selecting an appropriate operating frequency, the excitation effect of the shear wave can be maximized.

[0121] To this end, the present invention uses a dual-frequency multi-row array probe with both a high-frequency array and a low-frequency array to perform high-resolution imaging, and uses a low frequency to excite shear waves, thereby achieving the purpose of realizing high-resolution imaging and shear wave elastic imaging with the same probe.

[0122] The beneficial effect of the above design scheme is: by performing elastic imaging calculation based on the ultrasonic echo information of the region of interest, the shear wave velocity is obtained, and an elastic image is generated based on the shear wave velocity, thereby achieving the purpose of high-resolution imaging and shear wave elastic imaging with the same probe.

[0123] Embodiment 7:

[0124] Based on Example 1, the embodiment of the present invention provides a system for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging, wherein the synthetic display module comprises:

[0125] A rule determination unit, used to determine a selected display rule selected by a user;

[0126] The display unit is used to display the ultrasound image and the elasticity image according to the selected display rule.

[0127] In this embodiment, the selected display rule is a single display or a composite display of multiple types.

[0128] The beneficial effect of the above design is that the ultrasound image and the elasticity image are displayed according to the selected display rule, which facilitates the user to view the images.

[0129] Embodiment 8:

[0130] A high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to Embodiment 7, wherein the display unit comprises:

[0131] A judging unit, used for judging whether the selected display rule is to be displayed separately;

[0132] If so, display the ultrasound image or the elasticity image according to the separate display type;

[0133] Otherwise, the ultrasound image and the elasticity image are compositely displayed;

[0134] The synthesis unit is used to synthesize the ultrasonic image and the elasticity image according to a preset synthesis rule, and verify and correct the synthesized image based on the standard image features to obtain a target synthesized image.

[0135] The beneficial effect of the above design is that the ultrasound image and the elasticity image are displayed according to the selected display rule, which facilitates the user to view the images.

[0136] Embodiment 9:

[0137] Based on Example 1, the present invention provides a method for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging system, such as Figure 3 As shown, including:

[0138] S1: Determine layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determine working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters;

[0139] S2: controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters to obtain an ultrasonic image;

[0140] S3: controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, thereby exciting shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium;

[0141] S4: Based on the high-frequency array, ultrasonic waves are emitted to the area of ​​interest, the shear wave velocity is detected, and an elastic image is formed;

[0142] S5: The ultrasound image and the elasticity image are synthesized and displayed according to the selected display rule.

[0143] The beneficial effects of the above design scheme are: by determining the layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determining the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters, it is possible to design the optimal array parameters and arrangement method according to the requirements, control the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters to excite the high-frequency array to emit ultrasonic waves to the target medium to obtain an ultrasonic image, control the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters to excite the low-frequency array to emit ultrasonic waves to the target medium, excite shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium, emit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest based on the high-frequency array, detect the shear wave velocity, and form an elastic image, and use arrays of different frequencies to perform shear wave excitation and ultrasonic imaging, so as to use the dual-frequency probe to perform high and low frequency detection of the detection area, avoid the inability to accurately find the detection area again due to switching probes, and achieve accuracy in medical image detection.

[0144] Embodiment 10:

[0145] Based on Example 9, an embodiment of the present invention provides a method for high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging. In S1, based on medical imaging requirements, layout parameters of a dual-frequency array probe are determined, and working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe are determined according to the layout parameters, including:

[0146] Based on the resolution requirements in medical imaging needs, determine the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe in the dual-frequency array probe;

[0147] Determine the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency based on the examination items in the medical imaging requirements;

[0148] Determine the array shape of the dual-frequency array probe based on the examination depth in medical imaging requirements;

[0149] Based on the elastic imaging requirements in medical imaging requirements, determine the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe;

[0150] Based on the application scenarios in medical imaging requirements, determine the working mode of the low-frequency array probe, which includes single excitation and gating;

[0151] The working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe are set based on the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe, the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency, the shape of the array in the frequency array probe, the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, and the working mode of the low-frequency array probe.

[0152] In this embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown, in order to achieve dual-frequency imaging, the probe design adopts a multi-row array probe that supports high and low frequencies, so that it can provide high-resolution imaging at high frequencies and generate sufficient shear wave penetration at low frequencies. Regarding the arrangement: the low-frequency Fl is on both sides and the high-frequency Fh is in the middle; the high-frequency array can be 1 column or 3 columns. When there are 3 columns, the focus can be adjusted in the Z plane to improve spatial resolution and contrast.

[0153] In this embodiment, the probe frequency is selected between 1-30MHz. For example, for urinary system examination, the high frequency can be selected as 20MHz and the low frequency can be selected as 5MHz; for breast examination, the high frequency can be selected as 8MHz and the low frequency can be selected as 4MHz.

[0154] In this embodiment, if Figure 5 As shown, the shape of the array can be linear, convex or phased array, as shown in the figure below. Choosing the right probe shape is crucial for different application scenarios. Linear arrays are suitable for imaging superficial organs, convex arrays are suitable for imaging deep tissues, and phased arrays have more flexible imaging range and angle adjustment capabilities, which are suitable for complex structures or areas that require dynamic observation.

[0155] In this embodiment, it is crucial to consider how to flexibly control the excitation and gating of the low-frequency array in the design. This may involve the optimization of hardware circuit design and software control system to achieve dynamic switching and adjustment of different arrays. The low-frequency array can be excited or gated individually, or it can be connected up and down and regarded as one array element for excitation or gating, such as Figure 6As shown, separate selection can obtain more flexible excitation direction, and connecting up and down can save the number of channels, which depends on the application scenario.

[0156] The beneficial effect of the above design scheme is: by determining the layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determining the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters, it is possible to design the optimal array parameters and arrangement method according to the requirements, providing a basis for accurate imaging.

[0157] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, if these modifications and variations of the present invention belong to the scope of this application document and its equivalent technology, the present invention is also intended to include these changes and variations.

Claims

1. A high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastic imaging system, characterized in that: include: A layout determination module, used to determine layout parameters for the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determine working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters; An ultrasonic imaging module, used for controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, so as to obtain an ultrasonic image; A shear wave module, used for controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, and exciting shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium; An elastic imaging module, which is used to transmit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest based on a high-frequency array, detect the shear wave velocity, and form an elastic image; The synthesis display module is used to synthesize and display the ultrasound image and the elasticity image according to the selected display rules.

2. A high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The layout determination module includes: An arrangement determination unit, used to determine a high-frequency arrangement of a high-frequency array probe and a low-frequency arrangement of a low-frequency array probe in a dual-frequency array probe based on a resolution requirement in a medical imaging requirement; A frequency determination unit, used for determining a high-frequency probe frequency and a low-frequency probe frequency based on an examination item in a medical imaging requirement; A shape determination unit, used to determine the array shape of the dual-frequency array probe based on the examination depth in the medical imaging requirements; An angle determination unit, used to determine the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe based on elastic imaging requirements in medical imaging requirements; A mode determination unit, used to determine the working mode of the low-frequency array probe based on the application scenario in the medical imaging requirements, and the working modes include separate excitation and connection; A parameter setting unit is used to set the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe, the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency, the shape of the array in the frequency array probe, the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, and the working mode of the low-frequency array probe.

3. A high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The angle determination unit comprises: An initial setting unit, used to set the transmission parameters and receiving parameters of the low-frequency array probe and the initial angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements; The transmitting and receiving unit is used to transmit ultrasonic waves to a predetermined target area using a low-frequency array probe according to the transmitting parameters, capture echo information through the receiving parameters, and generate an initial ultrasonic image; An adjustment unit, used to gradually adjust the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe according to a preset increment, and obtain a contrast ultrasound image at each adjusted angle; The determination unit is used to obtain the clarity and grayscale value of the contrast ultrasound image under each adjustment angle, and compare the clarity and grayscale values ​​of all contrast ultrasound images to obtain the angle corresponding to the highest clarity and the maximum sum of grayscale values ​​as the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe.

4. The high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ultrasonic imaging module comprises: An information determination unit, used to determine the detection depth and detection focus of the dual-frequency array probe according to the working parameters, select the dual-frequency array probe to enter the high-resolution shear wave elastic imaging mode, and determine parameter control information in the ultrasound imaging mode based on the working parameters; An excitation unit, used to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium through array switching based on parameter control information; The image generating unit is used to receive the echo signal reflected by the target medium after receiving the ultrasonic wave, and generate the ultrasonic image based on the echo information.

5. The high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shear wave module comprises: A low-frequency transmitting unit, used to stimulate the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium through array switching according to the working parameters; A shear wave unit is used to excite shear waves in a region of interest of a target medium by mode switching.

6. A high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The elastic imaging module comprises: A switching transmitting unit is used to determine a shear wave velocity detection parameter based on the working parameter, and to transmit ultrasonic waves to the region of interest by exciting the high-frequency array through array switching according to the shear wave velocity detection parameter; The elastic imaging unit performs elastic imaging calculation based on the echo information of the ultrasound in the region of interest to obtain the shear wave velocity, and generates an elastic image based on the shear wave velocity.

7. The high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The synthetic display module comprises: A rule determination unit, used to determine a selected display rule selected by a user; The display unit is used to display the ultrasound image and the elasticity image according to the selected display rule.

8. The high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The display unit comprises: A judging unit, used for judging whether the selected display rule is to be displayed separately; If so, display the ultrasound image or the elasticity image according to the separate display type; Otherwise, the ultrasound image and the elasticity image are compositely displayed; The synthesis unit is used to synthesize the ultrasonic image and the elasticity image according to a preset synthesis rule, and verify and correct the synthesized image based on the standard image features to obtain a target synthesized image.

9. The method of high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography system according to claim 1, characterized in that: include: S1: Determine layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe based on medical imaging requirements, and determine working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe according to the layout parameters; S2: controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the high-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters to obtain an ultrasonic image; S3: controlling the dual-frequency array probe to excite the low-frequency array to transmit ultrasonic waves to the target medium according to the working parameters, thereby exciting shear waves in the region of interest of the target medium; S4: Based on the high-frequency array, ultrasonic waves are emitted to the area of ​​interest, the shear wave velocity is detected, and an elastic image is formed; S5: The ultrasound image and the elasticity image are synthesized and displayed according to the selected display rule.

10. The method of high-frequency ultrasonic shear wave elastography according to claim 9, characterized in that: In S1, based on the medical imaging requirements, the layout parameters of the dual-frequency array probe are determined, and the working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe are determined according to the layout parameters, including: Based on the resolution requirements in medical imaging needs, determine the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe in the dual-frequency array probe; Determine the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency based on the examination items in the medical imaging requirements; Determine the array shape of the dual-frequency array probe based on the examination depth in medical imaging requirements; Based on the elastic imaging requirements in medical imaging requirements, determine the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe; Based on the application scenarios in medical imaging requirements, determine the working mode of the low-frequency array probe, which includes single excitation and gating; The working parameters of the dual-frequency array probe are set based on the high-frequency arrangement of the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency arrangement of the low-frequency array probe, the high-frequency probe frequency and the low-frequency probe frequency, the shape of the array in the frequency array probe, the angle between the high-frequency array probe and the low-frequency array probe, and the working mode of the low-frequency array probe.

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