Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, method, and storage medium

Abstract

Embodiments disclosed in the present specification relate to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, a method, and a storage medium. Provided are an ultrasound diagnostic device, a method, and a storage medium capable of performing measurement under conditions suitable for a measurement object. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an analysis unit, a setting unit, and an acquisition unit. The analysis unit analyzes shear waves propagating through a subject. The setting unit sets acquisition conditions for the scan data on the basis of the analysis results of the shear waves. The acquisition unit performs scanning of the subject on the basis of the acquisition condition, and acquires scan data of the subject.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-4074 filed on January 15, 2024, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-158291 filed on September 12, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the like relate to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, method, and storage medium. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, in ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses, Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) that displays a hardness image by measuring the propagation speed of a shear wave generated by a driving pulse has been used. SWE is one of the useful techniques for non-invasively and quantitatively evaluating the hardness of tissues, for example, in diffuse liver diseases. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, method, and storage medium capable of performing measurement under conditions suitable for a measurement object.

[0005] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes an analysis unit, a setting unit, and an acquisition unit. The analysis unit analyzes a shear wave propagating in a subject. The setting unit sets acquisition conditions for scan data based on the analysis result of the shear wave. The acquisition unit performs a scan of the subject based on the acquisition conditions and acquires scan data of the subject.

[0006] According to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, method, and storage medium of the embodiment, measurement can be performed under conditions suitable for a measurement object. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figure 1 It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2A It is a diagram for explaining the propagation of a shear wave in SWE.

[0009] Figure 2B It is a diagram for explaining the propagation of a shear wave in SWE.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a flowchart showing the order of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4A It is a diagram for explaining an example of processing based on the analysis function according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4B This is a diagram for illustrating an example of the processing of the analysis function according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5A This is a diagram for illustrating an example of the processing of the analysis function according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5B This is a diagram for illustrating an example of the processing of the analysis function according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5C This is a diagram for illustrating an example of the processing of the analysis function according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram for illustrating an example of the processing of the setting function according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a diagram for illustrating the timing of the processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a diagram for illustrating the processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9A This is a diagram for illustrating an example of being able to measure shear waves within a region suitable for the measurement object.

[0020] Figure 9B This is a diagram for illustrating an example of being able to measure shear waves within a time suitable for the measurement object.

[0021] Figure 10 This is a diagram for illustrating an indicator representing the tissue characteristics of a subject.

[0022] Figure 11 This is for illustrating Figure 10 a diagram of a display example of the indicator shown. Detailed Embodiment

[0023] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, method, and program according to the present application will be described in detail. In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, method, and program according to the present application are not limited to the embodiments shown below.

[0024] (First Embodiment)

[0025] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. As Figure 1As shown, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes an ultrasonic probe 1, a display 2, an input interface 3, and a device main body 4. The ultrasonic probe 1, the display 2, and the input interface 3 are communicably connected to the device main body 4.

[0026] The ultrasonic probe 1 has a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators. These plurality of piezoelectric vibrators generate ultrasonic waves based on a drive signal supplied from a transceiver circuit 41. In addition, the ultrasonic probe 1 receives a reflected wave from a subject and converts it into an electrical signal. Further, the ultrasonic probe 1 has a matching layer provided on the piezoelectric vibrator, a backing material for preventing ultrasonic waves from propagating rearward from the piezoelectric vibrator, and the like. In addition, the ultrasonic probe 1 is detachably connected to the device main body 4.

[0027] If ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 1 to the subject, the transmitted ultrasonic waves are sequentially reflected by a discontinuity in the acoustic impedance in the tissue inside the subject and received by the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators included in the ultrasonic probe 1 as reflected wave signals. The amplitude of the received reflected wave signal depends on the difference in acoustic impedance of the discontinuity that reflects the ultrasonic waves. In addition, when the transmitted ultrasonic pulse is reflected by the surface of a moving blood flow or a heart wall, etc., the reflected wave signal generates a frequency shift corresponding to the velocity component of the moving body relative to the ultrasonic wave transmission direction through the Doppler effect.

[0028] The ultrasonic probe 1 can be a one-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are arranged in a row, or can also be an ultrasonic probe that mechanically swings the plurality of piezoelectric vibrators of the one-dimensional ultrasonic probe, or a two-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are two-dimensionally arranged in a lattice.

[0029] The display 2 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for inputting various setting requests by an operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 using the input interface 3, ultrasonic images generated in the device main body 4, and the like. In addition, the display 2 displays various messages and display information in order to notify the operator of the processing status and processing results of the device main body 4. Further, the display 2 has a speaker and can also output sound.

[0030] The input interface 3 is operated to set a specified position (e.g., the position of an ROI (Region Of Interest), etc.). For example, it is implemented by a trackball, a switch button, a mouse, a keyboard, a touchpad that performs an input operation through a touch operation surface, a touch monitor in which a display screen and a touchpad are integrated, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, and a voice input circuit, etc. The input interface 3 is connected to a processing circuit 45 described later, converts an input operation received from an operator into an electrical signal, and outputs it to the processing circuit 45. In addition, in this specification, the input interface 3 is not limited to having physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, a processing circuit for an electrical signal that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device separately provided from the apparatus and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuit 45 is also included in an example of the input interface.

[0031] The apparatus main body 4 is an apparatus that generates an ultrasonic image based on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 1, as Figure 1 shown, and has a transceiver circuit 41, a signal processing circuit 42, an image memory 43, a storage circuit 44, and a processing circuit 45. The transceiver circuit 41, the signal processing circuit 42, the image memory 43, the storage circuit 44, and the processing circuit 45 are connected in a manner that enables mutual notification. In Figure 1 the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 shown, each processing function is stored in the storage circuit 44 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The transceiver circuit 41, the signal processing circuit 42, and the processing circuit 45 are processors that implement functions corresponding to the respective programs by reading and executing the programs from the storage circuit 44. In other words, each circuit in the state where each program is read has a function corresponding to the read program.

[0032] The transceiver circuit 41 has a pulse generator, a transmit delay unit, a pulser, etc., and supplies a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 1. The pulse generator repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming transmitted ultrasonic waves at a specified rate (frequency). The transmit delay unit focuses the ultrasonic waves generated from the ultrasonic probe 1 into a beam shape, and assigns a delay time for each piezoelectric vibrator required to determine the transmit directivity to each rate pulse generated by the pulse generator. The pulser applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to the ultrasonic probe 1 at the timing based on the rate pulse. That is, the transmit delay unit arbitrarily adjusts the transmit direction of the ultrasonic waves transmitted from the piezoelectric vibrator surface by changing the delay time assigned to each rate pulse.

[0033] In addition, based on the instructions of the processing circuit 45 described later, the transceiver circuit 41 has a function of instantaneously changing the transmission frequency, transmission drive voltage, etc. in order to execute a prescribed scanning sequence. In particular, the change of the transmission drive voltage is realized by a linear amplifier type transmission circuit capable of instantaneously switching this value, or a mechanism for electrically switching multiple power supply units.

[0034] Furthermore, the transceiver circuit 41 includes a preamplifier, an A / D (Analog / Digital) converter, a reception delay unit, an adder, etc., and performs various processes on the reflected wave signals received by the ultrasonic probe 1 to generate reflected wave data. The preamplifier amplifies the reflected wave signals for each channel. The A / D converter performs A / D conversion on the amplified reflected wave signals. The reception delay unit gives the delay time required to determine the reception directivity. The adder performs an addition process on the reflected wave signals processed by the reception delay unit to generate reflected wave data. Through the addition process of the adder, the reflection components from the directions corresponding to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signals are emphasized, and a comprehensive beam for ultrasonic transmission and reception is formed through the reception directivity and the transmission directivity.

[0035] Here, as Figure 1 shown, the transceiver circuit 41 executes an acquisition function 411 and a setting function 412. The acquisition function 411 transmits and receives ultrasonic waves for observing shear waves in the subject to acquire scan data. In addition, the acquisition function 411 acquires the biological signals of the subject before acquiring the scan data. The setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the indicators. In addition, the processes of the acquisition function 411 and the setting function 412 will be described in detail later. Furthermore, the acquisition function 411 is an example of a first acquisition unit and a second acquisition unit. In addition, the setting function 412 is an example of a setting unit.

[0036] The signal processing circuit 42, for example, performs logarithmic amplification, envelope detection processing, etc. on the reflected wave data received from the transceiver circuit 41, and generates data (B-mode data) representing the signal intensity of each sampling point with the brightness level. The B-mode data generated by the signal processing circuit 42 is output to the processing circuit 45.

[0037] In addition, the signal processing circuit 42 generates data (Doppler data) in which the motion information of the moving body based on the Doppler effect is extracted at each sampling point within the scanning region, for example, according to the reflected wave data received from the transceiver circuit 41. Specifically, the signal processing circuit 42 performs frequency analysis on the velocity information based on the reflected wave data, extracts the blood flow, tissue, and contrast agent echo components based on the Doppler effect, and generates data (Doppler data) of the moving body information in which the average velocity, variance, power, etc. are extracted for multiple points. Here, the moving body is, for example, a tissue such as blood flow or the heart wall, or a contrast agent. The motion information (blood flow information) obtained by the signal processing circuit 42 is sent to the processing circuit 45 and is color-displayed on the display 2 as an average velocity image, a variance image, a power image, or a combined image thereof.

[0038] In addition, as Figure 1 shown, the signal processing circuit 42 executes the analysis function 421. The analysis function 421 calculates an index for determining the acquisition conditions of the scanning data based on the biological signal. In addition, the processing of the analysis function 421 will be described in detail later. In addition, the analysis function 421 is an example of an analysis unit.

[0039] The image memory 43 is a memory that stores the image data for display generated by the processing circuit 45. In addition, the image memory 43 can also store the data generated by the signal processing circuit 42. The B-mode data and Doppler data stored in the image memory 43 can be retrieved by the operator after diagnosis, for example, and become the ultrasonic image for display via the processing circuit 45.

[0040] The storage circuit 44 stores various data such as control programs for ultrasonic transmission and reception, image processing, and display processing, diagnostic information (for example, patient ID, doctor's opinion, etc.), diagnostic protocols, and various body markers. In addition, the storage circuit 44 stores the processing results of the transceiver circuit 41, the signal processing circuit 42, and the processing circuit 45. In addition, the storage circuit 44 is also used for storing the image data stored in the image memory 43 as needed. In addition, the data stored in the storage circuit 44 can be transferred to an external device via an interface (not shown). In addition, the storage circuit 44 is an example of a storage unit.

[0041] The processing circuit 45 controls the overall processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Specifically, the processing circuit 45 controls the processing of the transceiver circuit 41 and the signal processing circuit 42 based on various setting requests input from the operator via the input interface 3, various control programs read from the storage circuit 44, and various data. In addition, the processing circuit 45 controls to display the ultrasonic image for display stored in the image memory 43 on the display 2.

[0042] As Figure 1As shown, the processing circuit 45 executes a control function 451 and an image processing function 452. Here, the control function 451 is an example of a display control unit.

[0043] Based on various setting requests input by the operator via the input interface 3, various control programs and various data read from the storage circuit 44, the control function 451 controls the processing of the transceiver circuit 41 and the signal processing circuit 42. In addition, the control function 451 controls to display ultrasonic images and various information on the display 2. For example, the control function 451 controls to display an index on the display unit.

[0044] The image processing function 452 generates an ultrasonic image based on the data generated by the signal processing circuit 42. That is, the image processing function 452 generates an ultrasonic image representing the intensity of the reflected wave with brightness based on the B-mode data generated by the signal processing circuit 42. In addition, the image processing function 452 generates an ultrasonic image representing moving object information (blood flow information, tissue movement information) based on the Doppler data generated by the signal processing circuit 42. The ultrasonic image based on the Doppler data is velocity image data, variance image data, power image data, or image data combined from them.

[0045] Here, the image processing function 452 generally transforms the scan line signal sequence of the ultrasonic scan into a scan line signal sequence in a video format represented by a television, etc. (scan conversion), and generates an ultrasonic image for display. Specifically, the image processing function 452 generates an ultrasonic image for display by performing coordinate transformation according to the scan pattern of the ultrasonic waves of the ultrasonic probe 1. In addition, in addition to scan conversion, as various image processing, the image processing function 452 performs, for example, image processing (smoothing processing) of regenerating the average value of the brightness using multiple image frames after scan conversion, or image processing (edge enhancement processing) using a differential filter within the image. In addition, the image processing function 452 synthesizes character information, scales, body marks, etc. of various parameters with the ultrasonic image.

[0046] That is, the B-mode data and the Doppler data are ultrasonic image data before scan conversion processing, and the data generated by the image processing function 452 is ultrasonic image data for display after scan conversion processing. In addition, when the signal processing circuit 42 generates three-dimensional data (three-dimensional B-mode data and three-dimensional Doppler data), the image processing function 452 generates volume data by performing coordinate transformation according to the scan pattern of the ultrasonic waves of the ultrasonic probe 1. And the image processing function 452 performs various rendering processes on the volume data to generate two-dimensional image data for display.

[0047] Here, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment is a device capable of performing elastography that measures the hardness (such as elastic modulus) of a biological tissue and images the distribution of the measured hardness. Specifically, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment is a device capable of performing shear wave elastography (SWE) by applying an acoustic radiation force to cause displacement of a biological tissue.

[0048] Currently, in SWE, the hardness of the tissue to be measured is measured under a single condition, so sometimes the shear wave cannot be appropriately observed according to the state of the measurement object. Figure 2A And Figure 2B is a diagram for explaining the propagation of the shear wave in SWE. In addition, Figure 2A is a diagram for explaining the propagation of the shear wave at each elapsed time in the space where the push pulse is transmitted. Additionally, Figure 2B is a diagram for explaining the propagation of the shear wave at each tracking pulse in the measurement region for measuring the hardness.

[0049] As Figure 2A shown, when a push pulse is sent to the biological tissue, a shear wave that propagates horizontally is generated. Here, in the current SWE, the shear wave is observed according to a single acquisition condition, so there are cases where the shear wave does not converge within the measurement region due to the hardness of the tissue in the measurement region. That is, when the tissue of the measurement object is hard, as shown by the dotted line waveform in the figure, the propagation speed of the shear wave is fast, and sometimes the shear wave cannot be appropriately captured by the tracking pulse. Additionally, when the tissue of the measurement object is soft, as shown by the dash-dotted line waveform in the figure, the propagation speed of the shear wave is slow, and sometimes the shear wave cannot be appropriately captured by the tracking pulse. Additionally, in the case of the shear wave represented by the dashed line waveform, it can be appropriately observed.

[0050] Furthermore, as Figure 2B shown, in the current SWE, sometimes the shear wave does not converge within the measurement time from the start to the end of the measurement in the measurement region. That is, when the tissue of the measurement object is hard, the propagation speed of the shear wave is fast, so as shown by the dotted line waveform in the figure, sometimes the timing at the start of the measurement is too late and the shear wave cannot be appropriately captured. Additionally, when the tissue of the measurement object is soft, the propagation speed of the shear wave is slow, so as shown by the dash-dotted line waveform in the figure, sometimes the propagation of the shear wave cannot catch up with the timing at the end of the measurement and the shear wave cannot be appropriately captured. Additionally, in the case of the shear wave represented by the dashed line waveform, it can be appropriately observed.

[0051] Thus, in the measurement of SWE, the optimal transmission and reception conditions are different for the driving pulse used to generate the shear wave and the tracking pulse used to observe the shear wave, depending on the hardness of the tissue being measured. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment calculates approximate information related to the hardness by performing a pre-scan on the measurement object, and sets the acquisition conditions based on the calculated information, thereby enabling measurement under conditions suitable for the measurement object.

[0052] Hereinafter, after explaining the sequence of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 Figure 3 the detailed content of each process will be described. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the sequence of processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0053] For example, as Figure 3 shown, in the present embodiment, the acquisition function 411 performs a pre-scan (pre-SWE) on the subject (step S101). Specifically, the acquisition function 411 transmits a driving pulse and receives and transmits a tracking pulse, thereby acquiring scan data (biological signal of the subject) related to the shear wave propagating in the subject. The processing of step S101 is realized, for example, by the transceiver circuit 41 retrieving and executing a program corresponding to the acquisition function 411 from the storage circuit 44.

[0054] Next, the analysis function 421 analyzes the shear wave propagating in the subject based on the scan data acquired by the acquisition function 411 (step S102). The analysis function 421 analyzes the shear wave (first shear wave) propagating at each position in the measurement region (first measurement region R1) of the subject that is the object of the pre-SWE. The analysis function 421 acquires a tissue trait index value indicating the tissue trait of the subject at each position in the first measurement region R1 as the analysis result of the shear wave. Then, the analysis function 421 determines whether the analysis result is appropriate (step S103). The processing of steps S102 and S103 is realized, for example, by the signal processing circuit 42 retrieving and executing a program corresponding to the analysis function 421 from the storage circuit 44.

[0055] In the determination of step S103, when the analysis result is inappropriate (step S103, NO), the control function 451 causes the display 2 to display a warning message (step S104), and controls to perform the pre-scan again. The processing of step S104 is realized, for example, by the processing circuit 45 retrieving and executing a program corresponding to the control function 451 from the storage circuit 44.

[0056] On the other hand, in the determination of step S103, when the analysis result is appropriate (step S103, yes), the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for the SWE scan data based on the analysis result of the shear wave (step S105). Specifically, the setting function 412 sets the transmission condition of the push pulse that causes the subject to generate a second shear wave and the transceiver condition of the tracking pulse for observing the second shear wave as the acquisition conditions for the scan data based on the analysis result of the first shear wave. The setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for the scan data based on the tissue property index values at each position in the first measurement region R1. The process of step S105 is realized, for example, by the transceiver circuit 41 retrieving and executing the program corresponding to the setting function 412 from the storage circuit 44.

[0057] Next, the acquisition function 411 performs a formal scan (formal SWE) using the set acquisition conditions (step S106). That is, the acquisition function 411 performs a formal scan of the subject based on the acquisition conditions set by the setting function 412 and acquires the scan data of the subject. The process of step S106 is realized, for example, by the transceiver circuit 41 retrieving and executing the program corresponding to the acquisition function 411 from the storage circuit 44.

[0058] Then, the control function 451 controls to cause the display 2 to display the evaluation information (hardness of the tissue of the measurement object) based on the scan data (step S107). That is, the control function 451 displays the ultrasonic image (SWE image) based on the scan data of the subject acquired by the acquisition function 411 as the evaluation information. The process of step S106 is realized, for example, by the processing circuit 45 retrieving and executing the program corresponding to the control function 451 from the storage circuit 44.

[0059] Hereinafter, the details of each process executed by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described.

[0060] (Pre-scan)

[0061] As described in step S101, the acquisition function 411 performs a pre-scan (pre-SWE) including the transmission of the push pulse and the transceiver of the tracking pulse. In addition, the push pulse is a focused ultrasonic pulse that generates a transverse wave called a shear wave in a biological tissue (subject) based on the acoustic radiation force, and is an example of the ultrasonic wave used to generate the shear wave. In addition, the tracking pulse is an ultrasonic pulse for observing the shear wave, and is an example of the ultrasonic wave used to observe the shear wave.

[0062] For example, the acquisition function 411 causes a driving pulse to be transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 1, generating a first shear wave in the biological tissue. Further, the acquisition function 411 causes a tracking pulse for observing the first shear wave generated based on the driving pulse to be transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 1. The tracking pulse is transmitted to observe the propagation speed of the first shear wave generated by the driving pulse at each sampling point within the first measurement region R1. Usually, the tracking pulse is transmitted multiple times (e.g., 100 times) for each scan line within the first measurement region R1. The acquisition function 411 generates reflected wave data (scan data) based on the reflected wave signals of the tracking pulses transmitted for each scan line within the first measurement region R1.

[0063] Here, during the pre-scan, the acquisition function 411 performs the transmission of the driving pulse and the reception and transmission of the tracking pulse according to the acquisition conditions that enable the acquisition of each shear wave propagating in tissues with different tissue properties. That is, the acquisition function 411 performs the pre-scan by using the transmission conditions of the driving pulse and the reception and transmission conditions of the tracking pulse that can capture shear waves in various tissue properties (tissues with various hardnesses). In addition, the acquisition conditions for the pre-scan (acquisition conditions for scan data) are preset and stored in the storage circuit 44, and are read by the acquisition function 411 during the pre-scan.

[0064] (Analysis processing)

[0065] As described in step S102, the analysis function 421 analyzes the shear wave (first shear wave) obtained by the pre-scan (pre-SWE) of the acquisition function 411, and calculates the degree of hardness (elastic modulus) of the tissue in the first measurement region R1. Specifically, the analysis function 421 analyzes the shear wave (first shear wave) propagating at each position in the measurement region (first measurement region R1) of the subject that is the object of the pre-SWE. The analysis function 421 obtains a tissue property index value indicating the tissue property of the subject's tissue at each position in the first measurement region R1 as the analysis result of the first shear wave. The tissue property index value includes at least one of an elasticity index value indicating the elasticity of the subject's tissue and a viscosity index value indicating the viscosity of the subject's tissue. The elasticity index value (elastic value) includes, for example, the propagation speed of the shear wave, the arrival time of the shear wave, the shear elastic modulus, the Young's modulus, etc., and the viscosity index value (viscosity value) includes the viscosity coefficient obtained by the Voigt model, the Maxwell model, etc. based on the relationship between the frequency component and the propagation speed (phase speed), the variance value of the propagation speed with respect to the frequency component (Dispersion Slope value), etc. Further, the analysis function 421 may also calculate a statistical value (average value, median value, variance value, standard deviation value, range of the tissue property index value, etc.) of the tissue property index values at each position in the first measurement region R1 as a rough tissue property index value within the first measurement region R1, and use it as the analysis result of the first shear wave.

[0066] For example, the analysis function 421 analyzes the reflected wave data of the tracking pulses repeatedly transmitted by each scan line in the first measurement region R1 during pre-scanning, and calculates hardness distribution data (elastic index values at respective positions in the first measurement region R1) representing the hardness distribution in the first measurement region R1. As an example, the analysis function 421 may also measure the propagation speed of the first shear wave generated by the driving pulse at each sampling point in the first measurement region R1, and calculate statistical values (average value, median value, variance value, standard deviation value, range of propagation speed) of the propagation speed (elastic index value) at each sampling point as the analysis result of the first shear wave.

[0067] For example, the analysis function 421 generates motion information (tissue Doppler data) for multiple time phases at multiple sampling points on each scan line by performing frequency analysis on the reflected wave data of the tracking pulses. Then, the analysis function 421 performs time integration on the velocity components of the tissue Doppler data for multiple time phases obtained at multiple sampling points on each scan line. Thereby, the analysis function 421 calculates the displacements of multiple sampling points on each scan line for multiple time phases. That is, the displacement is detected as a displacement waveform (time displacement curve). That is, the analysis function 421 detects the motion (displacement) of tissues at multiple positions in the subject by analyzing the scan data collected by transmitting the driving pulse and receiving and transmitting the tracking pulse. In addition, the displacement waveform is an example of waveform information representing a shear wave.

[0068] Next, the analysis function 421 obtains the time when the displacement becomes maximum at each sampling point in the first measurement region R1. Then, the analysis function 421 determines the time when the maximum displacement is obtained at each sampling point as the arrival time of the shear wave at each sampling point. Next, the analysis function 421 calculates the propagation speed of the first shear wave at each sampling point by performing spatial differentiation of the arrival times of the shear waves at each sampling point. In addition, as the arrival time of the first shear wave, it is not limited to the time when the displacement becomes maximum at each sampling point. For example, the time when the change amount of the displacement at each sampling point becomes maximum may also be used.

[0069] Then, the analysis function 421 calculates a rough elastic value (for example, a statistical value of elastic index values) in the first measurement region R1 based on the information on the propagation speed of the first shear wave at each sampling point in the first measurement region R1. The propagation speed of the shear wave is fast in hard tissues and slow in soft tissues. That is, the value of the propagation speed of the shear wave becomes a value representing the hardness of the tissue (elastic index value). In the above case, the tracking pulse is a transmission pulse for tissue Doppler. In addition, the propagation speed of the above shear wave can also be calculated by the mutual correlation of the displacements of tissues in adjacent scan lines.

[0070] In addition, the analysis function 421 can also calculate the elastic modulus (Young's modulus, shear elastic modulus) based on the propagation speed of the first shear wave. The propagation speed of the shear wave, Young's modulus, and shear elastic modulus can all be used as physical quantities (elastic index values) representing the hardness of biological tissue. In addition, hardness is an example of a parameter representing tissue properties (elasticity).

[0071] In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate an approximate elastic value (for example, a statistical value of the elastic index value) within the first measurement region R1 based on the waveform information of the first shear wave instead of calculating it based on the propagation speed of the first shear wave. Hereinafter, each calculation example will be described.

[0072] First, an example of calculating an approximate elastic value within the first measurement region R1 based on the propagation speed of the first shear wave will be described. Figure 4A And Figure 4B is a diagram for explaining an example of the processing of the analysis function 421 according to the first embodiment. In addition, Figure 4A and Figure 4B shows an example of calculating a statistical value of the elastic index value within the first measurement region R1 based on the propagation speed of the first shear wave obtained at each position in the first measurement region R1 by performing a pre-scan.

[0073] For example, as shown in Figure 4A the analysis function 421 analyzes the reflected wave data of the tracking pulses transmitted multiple times by each scan line within the first measurement region R1 (the rectangle in the figure) in the pre-scan, and calculates the propagation speed of the first shear wave generated by the push pulse at each position within the first measurement region R1. As an example, as shown in Figure 4A the analysis function 421 calculates the propagation speeds "1.2 m / s", "1.8 m / s", and "1.4 m / s" between adjacent scan lines. Then, the analysis function 421 calculates the range of the propagation speed of the first shear wave within the first measurement region R1, "speed range: 1.2 - 1.8 m / s", based on the calculated propagation speeds. That is, in this case, "speed range: 1.2 - 1.8 m / s" is obtained as Figure 4A the approximate elastic value (statistical value of the propagation speed) in the first measurement region R1 shown.

[0074] In addition, the analysis function 421 can analyze the propagation speed of the first shear wave not only between the adjacent scan lines described above but also at other positions. For example, as shown in Figure 4BAs shown, in addition to the propagation speeds of the first shear waves "1.2 m / s", "1.8 m / s", and "1.4 m / s" between adjacent scan lines, the propagation speeds of the first shear waves "1.7 m / s" and "1.9 m / s" between non-adjacent scan lines are also calculated. Based on the calculated propagation speeds, the "speed range: 1.2 - 1.9 m / s" within the first measurement region R1 is calculated. That is, in this case, the "speed range: 1.2 - 1.9 m / s" is obtained as Figure 4B the approximate elastic value (statistical value of the tissue trait index value) within the first measurement region R1 shown.

[0075] In addition, the above example is merely an example, and the implementation is not limited thereto. For example, the number of propagation speeds calculated by the analysis function 421 is not limited to the number shown in the figure. In the above example, as an example of the approximate elastic value (statistical value of the elastic index value) within the first measurement region R1, the case of calculating the range of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 is described. However, the analysis function 421 can also calculate statistical values such as the average value, median value, variance value, and standard deviation value of the elastic value as the approximate elastic value within the first measurement region R1. For example, the analysis function 421 can also calculate, as shown in Figure 4A or Figure 4B the average value or median value of the propagation speeds of the first shear waves at each position within the first measurement region R1, and obtain it as the approximate elastic value within the first measurement region R1.

[0076] In addition, the analysis function 421 can also calculate the variance value of the elastic value and adjust the average value, median value, and range of the elastic value. For example, the analysis function 421 calculates the variance value of the propagation speed of the first shear wave. When the calculated variance value exceeds the threshold, the average value, median value, and range of the propagation speed of the first shear wave are adjusted, and the elastic value corresponding to the adjusted speed is obtained. For example, when the calculated variance value exceeds the threshold, the analysis function 421 increases the upper limit value of the range that increases the average value and median value of the propagation speed of the first shear wave. That is, when the variance value is high, the analysis function 421 changes the conditions so that the tissue within the first measurement region R1 contains harder tissue.

[0077] Next, an example of calculating the approximate elastic value within the first measurement region R1 based on the waveform information of the first shear wave is described. Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B and Figure 5C are diagrams for explaining an example of the processing of the analysis function 421 according to the first embodiment. In addition, Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B and Figure 5CThis is an example of a case where a statistical value of an elasticity index value within the first measurement region R1 is calculated based on waveform information of shear waves at respective positions in the first measurement region R1 obtained through execution of a pre-scan.

[0078] For example, as shown in Figure 5A , during the pre-scan, the analysis function 421 determines whether the arrival time of the first shear wave converges within the measurement time based on the waveform information of the first shear wave, and calculates the range of the elastic value of the tissue within the first measurement region R1 (statistical value of the elasticity index value) based on the determination result. Figure 5A For example, as shown in Figure 5A , during the pre-scan, the analysis function 421 determines whether the arrival time of the first shear wave converges within the measurement time based on the waveform information of the first shear wave, and calculates the range of the elastic value of the tissue within the first measurement region R1 (statistical value of the elasticity index value) based on the determination result.

[0079] In addition, for example, as shown in Figure 5B , the analysis function 421 calculates the elastic value based on the amplitude and wavelength of the shear wave. For example, as shown in Figure 5B , when the shear wave has an amplitude of "1.2 μm" and a wavelength of "2.4 μs", the analysis function 421 calculates the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s" based on the function representing the relationship between "m / s" and "amplitude / wavelength" according to "1.2 / 2.4 = 0.5". Then, the analysis function 421 obtains the hardness of "7 kPa" based on the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s", for example. In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate the average value, median value, and range (statistical value of the elasticity index value) of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 by obtaining the above hardness for multiple positions within the first measurement region R1. The wavelength and amplitude of the first shear wave are high in soft tissues and the wavelength becomes longer, while the amplitude is low and the wavelength is shorter in hard tissues. Therefore, the function representing the relationship between "m / s" and "amplitude / wavelength" is obtained in advance and stored in the storage circuit 44, for example. Figure 5B In addition, for example, as shown in Figure 5B , the analysis function 421 calculates the elastic value based on the amplitude and wavelength of the shear wave. For example, as shown in Figure 5B , when the shear wave has an amplitude of "1.2 μm" and a wavelength of "2.4 μs", the analysis function 421 calculates the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s" based on the function representing the relationship between "m / s" and "amplitude / wavelength" according to "1.2 / 2.4 = 0.5". Then, the analysis function 421 obtains the hardness of "7 kPa" based on the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s", for example. In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate the average value, median value, and range (statistical value of the elasticity index value) of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 by obtaining the above hardness for multiple positions within the first measurement region R1. The wavelength and amplitude of the first shear wave are high in soft tissues and the wavelength becomes longer, while the amplitude is low and the wavelength is shorter in hard tissues. Therefore, the function representing the relationship between "m / s" and "amplitude / wavelength" is obtained in advance and stored in the storage circuit 44, for example. Figure 5B In addition, for example, as shown in Figure 5B , the analysis function 421 calculates the elastic value based on the amplitude and wavelength of the shear wave. For example, as shown in Figure 5B , when the shear wave has an amplitude of "1.2 μm" and a wavelength of "2.4 μs", the analysis function 421 calculates the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s" based on the function representing the relationship between "m / s" and "amplitude / wavelength" according to "1.2 / 2.4 = 0.5". Then, the analysis function 421 obtains the hardness of "7 kPa" based on the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s", for example. In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate the average value, median value, and range (statistical value of the elasticity index value) of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 by obtaining the above hardness for multiple positions within the first measurement region R1. The wavelength and amplitude of the first shear wave are high in soft tissues and the wavelength becomes longer, while the amplitude is low and the wavelength is shorter in hard tissues. Therefore, the function representing the relationship between "m / s" and "amplitude / wavelength" is obtained in advance and stored in the storage circuit 44, for example.

[0080] In addition, for example, as shown in Figure 5C , the analysis function 421 calculates the elastic value based on the consistency between the waveform of the shear wave and the waveform patterns of respective pre-programmed hardness values. For example, as shown in Figure 5C , the analysis function 421 calculates the correlation between each waveform corresponding to multiple propagation speeds including "1.3 m / s" and "1.0 m / s" and the waveform of the shear wave obtained through the pre-scan, and determines that the waveform of the shear wave obtained through the pre-scan has a high consistency with the waveform of "1.3 m / s" based on the calculated correlation result. Then, the analysis function 421 obtains the hardness of "7 kPa" based on the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s", for example. In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate the average value, median value, and range (statistical value of the elasticity index value) of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 by obtaining the above hardness for multiple positions within the first measurement region R1. In addition, the waveform patterns corresponding to respective propagation speeds are obtained in advance and stored in the storage circuit 44, for example. Figure 5C In addition, for example, as shown in Figure 5C , the analysis function 421 calculates the elastic value based on the consistency between the waveform of the shear wave and the waveform patterns of respective pre-programmed hardness values. For example, as shown in Figure 5C , the analysis function 421 calculates the correlation between each waveform corresponding to multiple propagation speeds including "1.3 m / s" and "1.0 m / s" and the waveform of the shear wave obtained through the pre-scan, and determines that the waveform of the shear wave obtained through the pre-scan has a high consistency with the waveform of "1.3 m / s" based on the calculated correlation result. Then, the analysis function 421 obtains the hardness of "7 kPa" based on the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s", for example. In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate the average value, median value, and range (statistical value of the elasticity index value) of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 by obtaining the above hardness for multiple positions within the first measurement region R1. In addition, the waveform patterns corresponding to respective propagation speeds are obtained in advance and stored in the storage circuit 44, for example. Figure 5C In addition, for example, as shown in Figure 5C , the analysis function 421 calculates the elastic value based on the consistency between the waveform of the shear wave and the waveform patterns of respective pre-programmed hardness values. For example, as shown in Figure 5C , the analysis function 421 calculates the correlation between each waveform corresponding to multiple propagation speeds including "1.3 m / s" and "1.0 m / s" and the waveform of the shear wave obtained through the pre-scan, and determines that the waveform of the shear wave obtained through the pre-scan has a high consistency with the waveform of "1.3 m / s" based on the calculated correlation result. Then, the analysis function 421 obtains the hardness of "7 kPa" based on the propagation speed of "1.3 m / s", for example. In addition, the analysis function 421 can calculate the average value, median value, and range (statistical value of the elasticity index value) of the elastic value within the first measurement region R1 by obtaining the above hardness for multiple positions within the first measurement region R1. In addition, the waveform patterns corresponding to respective propagation speeds are obtained in advance and stored in the storage circuit 44, for example.

[0081] (Determination Process of Analysis Results)

[0082] As described in step S103, the analysis function 421 determines whether the analysis result of the first shear wave is appropriate. For example, when the degree of the calculated elasticity value is an obvious outlier or when the variance value of the elasticity value exceeds a specified threshold, the analysis function 421 determines that the analysis result is inappropriate. In addition, a reference value for determining an outlier and a specified threshold are set in advance. Further, the specified threshold for comparison with the variance value is set to be higher than the threshold for determining whether to adjust the elasticity value.

[0083] (Display of warning information)

[0084] As described in step S104, when the control function 451 determines that the analysis result of the first shear wave is inappropriate, it controls to display a warning message. That is, when the index (analysis result of the first shear wave) does not meet the standard, the control function 451 controls to display a warning message related to the index. For example, the control function 451 controls to display a warning message indicating that the analysis in the pre-scan has not been appropriately performed on the display 2. In addition to the above information, the control function 451 can also display information prompting a change in the position of the first measurement area R1.

[0085] In addition, the control function 451 can also display the index (analysis result of the first shear wave) on the display 2. For example, the control function 451 can cause the display 2 to display the elasticity value (here, the statistical value of the elasticity index value) within the first measurement area R1 calculated by the analysis function 421. Here, the control function 451 is not limited to the case of displaying a warning message, and it can also cause the display 2 to display the elasticity value within the first measurement area R1 even when the analysis result is appropriate.

[0086] (Setting process of acquisition conditions)

[0087] As described in step S105, when the analysis result is appropriate, the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for the scan data of the formal scan. Specifically, the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for the formal scan based on the approximate elasticity value (here, the statistical value of the elasticity index value within the first measurement area R1) calculated by the analysis function 421. That is, based on the analysis result of the first shear wave, the setting function 412 sets the transmission condition of the driving pulse that generates a shear wave (second shear wave) in the subject and the transmission and reception conditions of the tracking pulse that observes the second shear wave propagating in the subject as the acquisition conditions for the scan data. The setting function 412 of the present embodiment can set the acquisition conditions by various methods. Hereinafter, these examples will be described.

[0088] For example, the setting function 412 selects the acquisition condition (the acquisition condition for formal scanning) of the scan data based on an index (the analysis result of the first shear wave) from among a plurality of acquisition conditions set in advance. That is, the setting function 412 compares the approximate elasticity value (the analysis result of the first shear wave (here, the statistical value of the elasticity index value)) calculated by the analysis function 421 with the plurality of acquisition conditions set in advance, and selects from among the plurality of acquisition conditions the acquisition condition suitable for the tissue of the subject for which pre-scanning has been performed.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining an example of the process of the setting function 412 of the first embodiment. Here, in Figure 6 it is shown that the range of the elasticity value (hardness) "0.75 kPa - 200 kPa" is divided into five ranges "0.75 kPa - 2 kPa", "2 kPa - 10 kPa", "10 kPa - 30 kPa", "30 kPa - 100 kPa", "100 kPa - 200 kPa" set in advance, and the corresponding acquisition conditions are set.

[0090] For example, as shown in Figure 6 the setting function 412 selects the range "10 kPa - 30 kPa" corresponding to the statistical value (average value, median value, range, etc.) of the elasticity value in the first measurement area R1 measured by pre-scanning from among the five ranges set in advance. In addition, the setting function 412 may also select from among the five ranges the range that most overlaps with the range of the elasticity value in the first measurement area R1 measured by pre-scanning. Thus, for example, the setting function 412 can set the acquisition condition for the range including the correct elasticity value "15 kPa".

[0091] In addition, in Figure 6 the case where five ranges are set in advance is described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and ranges can be set in any number and numerical range. In addition, in Figure 6 the case where the five ranges set in advance are set so as not to overlap between adjacent ranges is described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and ranges in which the elasticity value overlaps between adjacent ranges can also be set.

[0092] As described above, the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions (acquisition conditions for scan data) for the formal scan based on the metrics (analysis results of the first shear wave) obtained through pre-scanning. Specifically, the setting function 412 sets, as the acquisition conditions for the scan data of the formal scan, at least one of the transmission conditions for the driving pulse for observing the second shear wave, the transceiver conditions for the tracking pulse for observing the second shear wave propagating in the second measurement region R2 of the subject to be the formal SWE, the conditions related to the display based on the scan data, and the conditions related to the analysis based on the scan data. For example, the setting function 412 sets, based on the analysis results of the first shear wave, the conditions including at least one of the position and size of the second measurement region R2 as the acquisition conditions for the scan data. In addition, the setting function 412 sets, based on the analysis results of the first shear wave, the conditions including at least any one of the measurement start time of the second shear wave, the measurement end time of the second shear wave, and the measurement time width at each position of the second measurement region R2 as the acquisition conditions for the scan data. For example, the acquisition conditions set by the setting function 412 include the following adjustment parameters.

[0093] The adjustment parameters related to the driving pulse include "transmission intensity", "transmission times", "transmission position", "transmission waveform", "frame rate", etc. In addition, the adjustment parameters related to the tracking pulse include "distance from the driving pulse", "lateral width (distance between scan lines)", "measurement start time", "measurement end time", "time width", "simultaneous reception number (number of receiving beam roots)", etc. In addition, at least "change of color range", etc. is included in the adjustment parameters related to the color bar. In addition, at least "region where Directional Filter is 0", etc. is included in the adjustment parameters related to the tissue property analysis.

[0094] In addition, the setting function 412 sets at least one of the time from the acquisition of the biological signal to the acquisition of the scan data and the time from the acquisition of the scan data to the acquisition of the next scan data based on the metrics (analysis results of the first shear wave). That is, the setting function 412 sets the time from after the pre-scan to the start of the formal scan and / or the time between scans when performing the scan again after the formal scan based on the approximate elasticity value of the first measurement region R1 calculated through the pre-scan. In addition, hereinafter, the time from after the pre-scan to the start of the formal scan and the time from the end of the formal scan to the execution of the scan again are sometimes referred to as the cool time.

[0095] Here, a specific example of setting the above parameters will be described. For example, as the hardness of the tissue softens (the propagation speed of the shear wave slows down), the respective adjustment parameters are set as follows. For example, in the push pulse, the condition is set such that the "transmission output is decreased" as the hardness softens. Additionally, for example, in the tracking pulse, as the hardness softens, the conditions are set in such a way that the "distance between beams (scan lines) is extended", the "distance between the push pulse and the first beam is shortened", and the "PRF is decreased (the time width is increased)". Moreover, as the hardness softens, the acquisition conditions of the scan data are set in such a way that "in the Multi shot mode, the frame rate of the push pulse is increased" and the "cooling time is shortened".

[0096] On the other hand, as the hardness of the tissue hardens (the propagation speed of the shear wave increases), the respective adjustment parameters are set as follows. For example, in the push pulse, as the hardness hardens, the condition is set such that the "transmission output is increased". Additionally, for example, in the tracking pulse, as the hardness hardens, the conditions are set in such a way that the "distance between beams (scan lines) is shortened", the "distance between the push pulse and the first beam is extended", and the "PRF is increased (the time width is decreased)". Moreover, as the hardness hardens, the conditions are set in such a way that "in the Multi shot mode, the frame rate of the push pulse is decreased" and the "cooling time is extended".

[0097] For example, in Figure 6 the five ranges shown, the acquisition conditions in which the above parameters are respectively set according to the hardness of each range are made to correspond, and this correspondence information is stored in the storage circuit 44. The setting function 412 reads out the correspondence information corresponding to the selected range from the storage circuit 44 and sets it as the acquisition conditions for the formal scan.

[0098] In addition, the setting function 412 can also, for example, input the index (the analysis result of the first shear wave) analyzed by the analysis function 421 into a model that outputs the acquisition conditions of the scan data according to the input of the index (the analysis result of the shear wave), and set the acquisition conditions output by this model. For example, the setting function 412 obtains the acquisition conditions by inputting the analysis result of the analysis function 421 into a pre-constructed statistical regression model or machine learning model. In addition, the statistical regression model and the machine learning model are, for example, pre-stored in the storage circuit 44.

[0099] As an example, the setting function 412 calculates the adjustment parameters through the statistical regression models shown in the following formulas (1) and (2). Additionally, the following formula (1) is a formula for calculating the irradiation interval of the tracking pulse, and formula (2) is a formula for calculating the lateral width of the tracking pulse. Additionally, "A" and "B" in formula (1) and "C" in formula (2) represent coefficients set in advance, and "v" in formulas (1) and (2) represents the propagation speed of the shear wave.

[0100] (1) Tracking Width = A·v + B

[0101] (2) Beam Width = C / v

[0102] That is, the setting function 412 calculates each adjustment parameter by substituting the value of the propagation speed calculated by the analysis function 421 into Equation (1) and Equation (2). In addition, the above equations are merely examples, and the embodiments are not limited thereto. In addition, only the models related to two adjustment parameters are shown above, but models for calculating each adjustment parameter can be constructed separately.

[0103] In addition, in the case of constructing a machine learning model, the machine learning model can also be constructed in such a way that the acquisition conditions including all parameters are output according to the input of the analysis result. That is, a machine learning model that has learned the analysis result (propagation speed or elastic value) of the analysis function 421 and the acquisition conditions including all parameters as learning data can also be used.

[0104] As described above, the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for the formal scan based on the analysis result of the pre-scan. Furthermore, the setting function 412 can set the number of scans and the acquisition interval for the formal scan based on the analysis result of the pre-scan. Specifically, when the acquisition function 411 continuously acquires a plurality of scan data after acquiring the biological signal, the setting function 412 sets the transmission conditions of the push pulse for observing the shear wave and the reception and transmission conditions of the tracking pulse based on the index. That is, the setting function 412 sets the frequency and interval of the push pulse and the tracking pulse based on the index.

[0105] (Formal Scan)

[0106] As described in step S106, the acquisition function 411 performs a formal scan (formal SWE) based on the set acquisition conditions. Specifically, the acquisition function 411 performs a formal scan including the transmission of the push pulse and the reception and transmission of the tracking pulse based on the acquisition conditions set by the setting function 412, and acquires the scan data of the subject. For example, the acquisition function 411 sends the push pulse from the ultrasonic probe 1 to generate a second shear wave in the biological tissue. And the acquisition function 411 sends the tracking pulse for observing the second shear wave generated based on the push pulse from the ultrasonic probe 1. The tracking pulse is sent to observe the propagation speed of the second shear wave generated by the push pulse at each sampling point in the second measurement region R2. The acquisition function 411 generates reflected wave data (scan data) according to the reflected wave signals of the tracking pulses sent by each scan line in the second measurement region R2.

[0107] (Display Processing of Evaluation Information)

[0108] As described in step S107, the control function 451 causes the display 2 to display evaluation information (e.g., SWE image) based on the scan data acquired by the acquisition function 411. For example, the control function 451 causes the display 2 to display a hardness image (SWE image) in which colors corresponding to the elasticity values (propagation speeds of the second shear wave) at respective positions within the second measurement region R2 are assigned to the respective positions (e.g., respective pixels) within the second measurement region R2. In this case, for example, the control function 451 generates information on the propagation speed of the second shear wave at each sampling point within the second measurement region R2 as hardness distribution data based on the scan data obtained by formal scanning. Then, the image processing function 452 generates the above-described hardness image (SWE image) based on the hardness distribution data. Further, in the present embodiment, according to the analysis result of the first shear wave based on pre-scanning, the color bar is also set to be suitable for the measurement object, so that a hardness image that is easier to observe can be displayed.

[0109] Hereinafter, Figure 7 and Figure 8 application examples of the present embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining the timing of the processing based on the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Further, Figure 8 is a diagram for explaining the processing based on the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Further, Figure 8 represents Figure 7 the processing in "PreSWE" and "formal SWE" in

[0110] For example, as Figure 7 shown, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 first acquires and displays a B-mode image of the tissue that is the measurement object of the subject through "B-mode Scan", accepts an operation for setting a measurement region (color ROI) for displaying a hardness image, and determines the color ROI. The color ROI corresponds to the region R2 described later.

[0111] Next, when the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 accepts an instruction to start measurement, it starts "PreSWE". That is, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 transmits a push pulse for "PreSWE" to generate a shear wave, and measures the shear wave by transmitting and receiving a tracking pulse for "PreSWE". Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 analyzes the hardness range of the general tissue within the color ROI, and sets the transmission and reception conditions for "formal SWE" based on the analysis result.

[0112] Thereafter, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 transmits a driving pulse for "formal SWE" to generate a shear wave, measures the shear wave by transmitting and receiving tracking pulses for "formal SWE", and performs 2D display of the hardness image. Here, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 automatically performs measurement start to 2D display of "PreSWE", but during this period, it is preferably completed with breath-holding for about 10 seconds.

[0113] In the above-mentioned "PreSWE", for example, the acquisition function 411 sets a region R1 as the ROI for "PreSWE" near the center of the region R2 (color ROI) shown. That is, the region R1 (first measurement region) is smaller than the region R2 (second measurement region). Then, the acquisition function 411 takes the region R1 as an object, and for example, performs a pre-scan based on one driving pulse and several tracking pulses, and acquires shear waves at multiple positions within the region R1. Here, the acquisition function 411 performs the pre-scan under the acquisition conditions that can calculate the approximate elastic value within the region R1 according to a wide range of hardness ranges, and under the condition that the cooling time before "formal SWE (formal scan)" has less time loss. Figure 8 The analysis function 421 calculates the hardness range "10 kPa - 25 kPa" based on the propagation speeds of the shear waves at multiple positions within the region R1 obtained by the pre-scan. The setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for "formal SWE" based on the comparison between the calculated hardness range and multiple preset ranges. The acquisition function 411 performs a formal scan of the region R2 according to the acquisition conditions set by the setting function 412. The control function 451 uses the result of the formal scan obtained by the acquisition function 411 to display a hardness image in which colors corresponding to the propagation speeds of the shear waves are assigned to each position within the region R2.

[0114] As described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment can set the acquisition conditions for the formal scan based on the analysis result of the pre-scan, but can also save the set acquisition conditions. In this case, for example, the storage circuit 44 stores the acquisition conditions for the scan data. The acquisition function 411 can read out the acquisition conditions for the scan data from the storage circuit 44 and acquire the scan data based on the read acquisition conditions.

[0115] For example, SWE sometimes performs multiple formal scans on the same subject. In this case, the acquisition conditions set in the first formal scan are associated with the subject and stored in the storage circuit 44. At the next formal scan, the acquisition function 411 reads out the acquisition conditions and performs the formal scan. Thereby, the examination time can be shortened.

[0116]

[0117] ​As described above, according to the first embodiment, the acquisition function 411 transmits and receives ultrasonic waves for observing shear waves in the subject to acquire scan data. The acquisition function 411 acquires the biological signal of the subject before acquiring the scan data. The analysis function 421 calculates an index for determining the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the biological signal. The setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the index. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can set the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the biological signal of the subject and can perform measurement under conditions suitable for the measurement object.

[0118] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the acquisition function 411 acquires a shear wave obtained by transmitting a push pulse and receiving and transmitting a tracking pulse as a biological signal. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can perform SWE under acquisition conditions suitable for the tissue of the measurement object.

[0119] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the acquisition function 411 transmits a push pulse and receives and transmits a tracking pulse according to the acquisition conditions capable of acquiring each shear wave propagating in tissues with different tissue properties. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can acquire approximate elastic values for tissues in various states and can perform SWE under acquisition conditions suitable for tissues in various states.

[0120] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the analysis function 421 calculates the degree of the elastic value in the tissue of the subject based on the shear wave. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can acquire approximate elastic values and can easily acquire appropriate acquisition conditions.

[0121] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the setting function 412 selects the acquisition conditions of the scan data from a plurality of preset acquisition conditions based on the index. In addition, the setting function 412 inputs the index into a model that outputs the acquisition conditions of the scan data according to the input of the index to acquire the acquisition conditions of the scan data. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can easily acquire appropriate acquisition conditions.

[0122] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the setting function 412 sets at least one of the time from the acquisition of the biological signal to the start of the acquisition of the scan data and the time from the acquisition of the scan data to the start of the acquisition of the next scan data based on the index. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can perform SWE with an appropriate cooling time.

[0123] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the control function 451 controls to display the index on the display 2. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can present the index (for example, elasticity value) obtained by pre-scanning to the operator.

[0124] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, when the index does not satisfy the standard, the control function 451 controls to display a warning message related to the index. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can notify the operator when the analysis of the pre-scanning is inappropriate.

[0125] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, when the setting function 412 continuously acquires a plurality of scan data after acquiring the biological signal, based on the index, the transmission conditions of the driving pulse for observing the shear wave and the transmission and reception conditions of the tracking pulse are set. The acquisition function 411 acquires a plurality of scan data based on the set transmission conditions of the driving pulse and the transmission and reception conditions of the tracking pulse. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can acquire appropriate scan data even when acquiring a plurality of scan data during the formal scan.

[0126] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the setting function 412 sets at least one of the transmission conditions of the driving pulse for observing the shear wave and the transmission and reception conditions of the tracking pulse, the conditions related to the display based on the scan data, and the conditions related to the analysis based on the scan data as the acquisition conditions of the scan data. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can appropriately set various conditions related to the formal scan.

[0127] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the storage circuit 44 stores the acquisition conditions of the scan data. The acquisition function 411 reads out the acquisition conditions of the scan data from the storage circuit 44 and acquires the scan data based on the read acquisition conditions. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can omit the pre-scanning and can shorten the examination time.

[0128] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the setting function 412 sets the conditions including at least one of the position and size of the second measurement region R2 as the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the analysis result of the first shear wave obtained by performing the pre-scanning. Thus, as Figure 9A shown, regardless of the viscoelastic state of the tissue of the measurement object, the shear wave can be measured within the region (second measurement region R2) suitable for the measurement object.

[0129] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the setting function 412 sets, based on the analysis result of the first shear wave obtained by performing the pre-scan, a condition including at least any one of the measurement start time of the second shear wave, the measurement end time of the second shear wave, and the measurement time width at each position in the second measurement region R2 as a acquisition condition of the scan data. Thus, as Figure 9B shown, regardless of the viscoelasticity of the tissue of the measurement object, it is possible to measure the shear wave within a time (measurement time) suitable for the measurement object.

[0130] (Other Embodiments)

[0131] In the above embodiment, the case of setting the acquisition condition based on a single analysis result (the velocity range of the propagation velocity of the shear wave) has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, it may be the case of setting the acquisition condition in detail based on a plurality of analysis results (for example, the analysis result based on the propagation velocity and the analysis result based on the waveform information).

[0132] In addition, in the above embodiment, the case of using the shear wave as the biological signal of the subject has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. As the biological signal, it may also be the case of using the reflected wave data obtained by B-mode scanning. That is, it may also be the case of estimating the elastic value of the tissue based on the B-mode reflected wave data.

[0133] In addition, in the above embodiment, the case of using the elastic value as an index has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. It may also be the case of using the viscosity value as an index. That is, it may also be the case of analyzing the viscosity of the tissue based on the shear wave. In this case, the control function 451 may also cause the display 2 to display evaluation information (for example, SWD (Shear Wave Dispersion) image, viscosity image, etc.) based on the scan data acquired by the acquisition function 411. For example, the control function 451 causes the display 2 to display a hardness image (SWD image) that assigns a color corresponding to the viscosity value (viscosity coefficient, variance value of the propagation velocity with respect to the frequency component (Dispersion Slope value)) at each position in the second measurement region R2 to each position (for example, each pixel) in the second measurement region R2.

[0134] In addition, in the above embodiment, as Figure 8 shown, an example in which the first measurement region R1 set in the pre-scan is smaller than the second measurement region R2 set in the formal scan has been described, but the first measurement region R1 may also be the same as or larger than the second measurement region R2.

[0135] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, as Figure 6 shown, only an example in which a range "10 kPa - 30 kPa" corresponding to the statistical value (average value, median value, range, etc.) of the elastic values within the first measurement region R1 measured by pre-scanning is selected from a plurality of ranges has been described. However, information related thereto may also be displayed on the display 2 during the execution of pre-scanning and formal scanning.

[0136] For example, the control function 451 may also display an indicator indicating the position of the acquisition condition set by the setting function 412 within the settable range of the acquisition conditions of the scan data. Specifically, as Figure 10 shown, an indicator indicating the acquisition condition of the scan data for measuring the propagation speed of the shear wave according to the viscoelastic state of the tissue is used. The control function 451 displays indicators indicating the acquisition conditions (for low speed, for low to medium speed, for medium to high speed, for high speed) of the scan data respectively suitable in the range from hard tissue to soft tissue on the display 2.

[0137] Furthermore, the control function 451 may also arrange and display an ultrasonic image (SWE image, SWD image, etc.) based on the scan data of the subject (scan data of formal scanning) acquired by the acquisition function 411 and the indicator. For example, as Figure 11 shown, during the execution of pre-scanning and formal scanning, the corresponding indicators are respectively displayed on the display 2. The control function 451 may also display the indicator before displaying the ultrasonic image (SWE image, SWD image, etc.) based on the scan data of the subject acquired by the acquisition function 411 according to the situation where the acquisition condition of the scan data is set by the setting function 412. Thus, before the ultrasonic image based on the scan data of formal scanning is displayed on the display 2, the operator can confirm the acquisition condition of the scan data indicated by the indicator ( Figure 10 any one of for low speed, for low to medium speed, for medium to high speed, for high speed shown).

[0138] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the setting function 412 sets the acquisition condition of the scan data based on the analysis result of the first shear wave propagating in the first measurement region by pre-scanning has been described. However, in addition to this, the acquisition condition of the scan data may also be set based on at least one of the B-mode data and the Doppler data of the subject and the analysis result of the first shear wave. Thus, in addition to the analysis result of the first shear wave, the acquisition condition of the scan data reflecting the morphology of the tissue of the subject represented by the B-mode data and the state of the blood flow of the subject represented by the Doppler data can also be set.

[0139] In addition, although an example has been described in which the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions for the scan data for measuring the second shear wave generated in the second measurement region R2 by formal scanning based on the analysis result of the first shear wave propagated in the first measurement region R1 by pre-scanning, it is also possible to set the acquisition conditions for the scan data related to at least one of the B-mode data and the Doppler data of the subject based on the analysis result of the first shear wave. Thereby, it is possible to newly acquire the scan data related to at least one of the B-mode data and the Doppler data of the subject in consideration of the state of the tissue properties (viscoelasticity) of the subject.

[0140] In addition, for example, diffuse liver diseases (hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver, etc.) are diseases in which the tissue properties of the entire liver change, so shear waves propagate uniformly in the liver. However, when there are other structures (blood vessels, cysts) in the liver, the shear waves do not propagate uniformly, and the reliability of the analysis result of the shear waves measured in such parts is low. Therefore, the analysis function 421 can also acquire a reliability index value indicating the reliability of the propagation of the first shear wave at each position in the first measurement region R1 as the analysis result of the shear wave. For example, the analysis function 421 can also compare the parameters (elastic index values (propagation speed, etc.)) of the first shear wave obtained at each position in the first measurement region R1 with the surroundings, thereby acquiring a value indicating whether it is non-uniform compared to the surroundings (for example, difference value, standard deviation, etc.) as the reliability index value. And, in this case, the setting function 412 can also set the acquisition conditions for the scan data based on the reliability index values at each position in the first measurement region R1. For example, the setting function 412 can determine the positions in the first measurement region R1 where the reliability index value is smaller than the threshold value (i.e., low reliability), and set the acquisition conditions for the scan data of the formal scan (formal SWE) based on the analysis result of the first shear wave obtained in the parts other than this position.

[0141] In addition, the analysis function 421 can also obtain a reliability index value indicating the reliability of the scan in the subject based on the analysis result of the shear wave propagating in the first measurement region R1 and at least one of the B-mode data and Doppler data of the subject. That is, in addition to the analysis result of the first shear wave, the morphology of the tissue of the subject represented by the B-mode data and the blood flow state of the subject represented by the Doppler data can also be comprehensively analyzed to obtain a reliability index value indicating the reliability of the scan in the subject. The reliability index value is, for example, an index value for identifying whether the shear wave becomes non-uniform due to factors such as structures such as blood vessels and cysts, regions with weak shear waves, and regions with movement. That is, the reliability index value can also be said to be an index value indicating the stability (reliability of the scan) of the scan. Also, the setting function 412 can set the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the reliability index value obtained by the analysis function 421. That is, the acquisition conditions of the scan data for scanning in a region with high scan stability and reliability can also be set based on the reliability index value obtained by comprehensively analyzing the morphology, properties, and blood flow state of the tissue.

[0142] In addition, in the description so far, it has been described that the first measurement region R1 for analyzing the first shear wave by the analysis function 421 is a single example, but the first measurement region R1 can also be multiple (for example, 5). The multiple measurement regions R1 can be arranged continuously (arranged in contact with each other) or discretely (arranged separately from each other). In this case, it can also be that the analysis function 421 analyzes the shear waves propagating in multiple different regions of the subject, and the setting function 412 sets the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the analysis results of the shear waves corresponding to the multiple different regions. That is, the scan data can also be acquired under conditions more suitable for the measurement object based on the analysis results of the shear waves for multiple measurement regions (the first measurement region R1). For example, the setting function 412 excludes the analysis results (for example, two analysis results) in which the difference (deviation) from the average of the analysis results of the first shear waves respectively obtained in the five first measurement regions R1 is greater than a specified threshold. Thus, the setting function 412 can also regard the three analysis results not excluded (analysis results with a deviation below the threshold) as having high reliability and set the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the three analysis results.

[0143] In addition, the term "processor" used in the above description refers, for example, to a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)), etc. The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program stored in the memory. Alternatively, instead of storing the program in the memory, it may be configured to directly incorporate the program into the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuit. In addition, each processor of the present embodiment is not limited to the case where it is configured as a single circuit for each processor, and multiple independent circuits may be combined to form one processor and realize its functions.

[0144] In addition, each component illustrated in the description of the above embodiment is a functional concept, and it is not necessarily physically configured as illustrated. That is, the specific form of the dispersion / merging of each device is not limited to the illustrated form, and all or part of it may be dispersed / merged functionally or physically in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, all or any part of the processing functions performed by each device may be implemented by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or as hardware of wired logic.

[0145] In addition, the method described in the above embodiment can be implemented by a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation executing a pre-prepared program. The program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. In addition, the program can also be recorded in a non-transitory recording medium readable by a computer, such as a hard disk, a floppy disk (FD), a CD-ROM, an MO, a DVD, a USB memory, and a flash memory such as an SD card memory, and executed by the computer reading it from the recording medium.

[0146] As described above, according to the embodiment, measurement can be performed under conditions suitable for the measurement object.

[0147] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations of the embodiments can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope or gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the scope of its equivalents.

[0148] Regarding the above embodiments and the like, the following appendices are disclosed as an aspect and optional features of the invention.

[0149] (Appendix 1)

[0150] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes:

[0151] a first acquisition unit that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves for observing shear waves in a subject to acquire scan data;

[0152] a second acquisition unit that acquires a biological signal of the subject before the acquisition of the scan data;

[0153] an analysis unit that calculates an index for determining acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the biological signal; and

[0154] a setting unit that sets the acquisition conditions of the scan data based on the index.

[0155] (Appendix 2)

[0156] Alternatively, the second acquisition unit may acquire a shear wave obtained by transmitting a push pulse and transmitting and receiving a tracking pulse as the biological signal.

[0157] (Appendix 3)

[0158] Alternatively, the second acquisition unit may perform transmission of the push pulse and transmission and reception of the tracking pulse according to acquisition conditions capable of acquiring respective shear waves propagating in tissues with different tissue characteristics.

[0159] (Appendix 4)

[0160] Alternatively, the analysis unit may calculate a degree of an elastic value in a tissue of the subject based on the shear wave.

[0161] (Appendix 5)

[0162] Alternatively, the setting unit may select the acquisition conditions of the scan data from a plurality of preset acquisition conditions based on the index.

[0163] (Appendix 6)

[0164] Alternatively, the setting unit inputs the index into a model that outputs acquisition conditions for the scan data based on the input of the index, and acquires the acquisition conditions for the scan data.

[0165] (Supplementary Note 7)

[0166] Alternatively, the setting unit sets at least one of the time from the acquisition of the biological signal to the start of the acquisition of the scan data and the time from the acquisition of the scan data to the start of the acquisition of the next scan data based on the index.

[0167] (Supplementary Note 8)

[0168] Alternatively, a display control unit is further provided, which controls to display the index on a display unit.

[0169] (Supplementary Note 9)

[0170] Alternatively, when the index does not meet the standard, the display control unit controls to display a warning message related to the index.

[0171] (Supplementary Note 10)

[0172] Alternatively, when continuously acquiring a plurality of scan data after acquiring the biological signal, the setting unit sets transmission conditions for a driving pulse for observing the shear wave and reception and transmission conditions for a tracking pulse based on the index,

[0173] The first acquisition unit acquires the plurality of scan data with the set transmission conditions for the driving pulse and the reception and transmission conditions for the tracking pulse.

[0174] (Supplementary Note 11)

[0175] Alternatively, a storage unit for storing the acquisition conditions for the scan data is further provided,

[0176] The first acquisition unit reads out the acquisition conditions for the scan data from the storage unit and acquires the scan data based on the read acquisition conditions.

[0177] (Supplementary Note 12)

[0178] Alternatively, the setting unit sets at least one of transmission conditions for a driving pulse for observing the shear wave and reception and transmission conditions for a tracking pulse, conditions related to display based on the scan data, and conditions related to analysis based on the scan data as the acquisition conditions for the scan data.

[0179] (Supplementary Note 13)

[0180] A method includes the following steps:

[0181] Obtain a biological signal of the subject before transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves for observing shear waves in the subject to acquire scan data;

[0182] Based on the biological signal, calculate an index for determining acquisition conditions of the scan data;

[0183] Based on the index, set the acquisition conditions of the scan data; and based on the acquisition conditions, acquire the scan data.

[0184] (Supplementary Note 14)

[0185] The program causes a computer to execute the following processes:

[0186] Obtain a biological signal of the subject before transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves for observing shear waves in the subject to acquire scan data,

[0187] Based on the biological signal, calculate an index for determining acquisition conditions of the scan data,

[0188] Based on the index, set the acquisition conditions of the scan data,

[0189] Based on the acquisition conditions, acquire the scan data.

[0190] (Supplementary Note 15)

[0191] An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes:

[0192] An analysis unit that analyzes shear waves propagating in a subject;

[0193] A setting unit that sets acquisition conditions of scan data based on an analysis result of the shear waves; and

[0194] An acquisition unit that performs scanning of the subject based on the acquisition conditions and acquires scan data of the subject.

[0195] (Supplementary Note 16)

[0196] Alternatively, the analysis unit analyzes first shear waves propagating at each position in a first measurement region of the subject,

[0197] The setting unit sets, as the acquisition conditions of the scan data, transmission conditions of a push pulse that causes second shear waves to be generated in a second measurement region of the subject and transmission and reception conditions of a tracking pulse that observes the second shear waves, based on an analysis result of the first shear waves.

[0198] (Supplementary Note 17)

[0199] Alternatively, the first measurement region is smaller than the second measurement region.

[0200] (Supplementary Note 18)

[0201] Alternatively, based on the analysis result of the first shear wave, the setting unit sets, as an acquisition condition of the scan data, a condition including at least one of the position and size of the second measurement region.

[0202] (Supplementary Note 19)

[0203] Alternatively, based on the analysis result of the first shear wave, at each position of the second measurement region, the setting unit sets, as an acquisition condition of the scan data, a condition including at least any one of the measurement start time of the second shear wave, the measurement end time of the second shear wave, and the measurement time width.

[0204] (Supplementary Note 20)

[0205] Alternatively, the analysis unit obtains, as an analysis result of the shear wave, a tissue property index value indicating the tissue property of the subject at each position of the first measurement region,

[0206] and the setting unit sets an acquisition condition of the scan data based on the tissue property index value at each position of the first measurement region.

[0207] (Supplementary Note 21)

[0208] Alternatively, the tissue property index value is at least one of an elasticity index value indicating the elasticity of the tissue of the subject and a viscosity index value indicating the viscosity of the tissue of the subject.

[0209] (Supplementary Note 22)

[0210] Alternatively, the analysis unit obtains, as an analysis result of the shear wave, a reliability index value indicating the reliability of the propagation of the first shear wave at each position of the first measurement region,

[0211] and the setting unit sets an acquisition condition of the scan data based on the reliability index value at each position of the first measurement region.

[0212] (Supplementary Note 23)

[0213] Alternatively, for a model that outputs an acquisition condition of scan data according to an input of an analysis result of a shear wave, the setting unit inputs the analysis result of the shear wave analyzed by the analysis unit and sets the acquisition condition of the scan data output by the model.

[0214] (Supplementary Note 24)

[0215] Alternatively, it may include a control unit that displays an ultrasonic image based on the scan data of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit.

[0216] (Supplementary Note 25)

[0217] Alternatively, it may include a control unit that displays an indicator indicating the position of the acquisition condition set by the setting unit within a range where the acquisition condition of the scan data can be set.

[0218] (Supplementary Note 26)

[0219] Alternatively, the control unit may display an ultrasonic image based on the scan data of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit and an indicator side by side.

[0220] (Supplementary Note 27)

[0221] Alternatively, the control unit may display the indicator before displaying an ultrasonic image based on the scan data of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit on the condition that the acquisition condition of the scan data is set by the setting unit.

[0222] (Supplementary Note 28)

[0223] Alternatively, the setting unit may set the acquisition condition of the scan data based on at least one of the B-mode data and Doppler data of the subject and the analysis result of the shear wave.

[0224] (Supplementary Note 29)

[0225] Alternatively, the setting unit may set the acquisition condition of the scan data related to at least one of the B-mode data and Doppler data of the subject based on the analysis result of the shear wave.

[0226] (Supplementary Note 30)

[0227] Alternatively, the analysis unit may analyze shear waves propagating in a plurality of different regions of the subject,

[0228] and set the acquisition condition of the scan data based on the analysis results of the shear waves respectively corresponding to the plurality of different regions.

[0229] (Supplementary Note 31)

[0230] A method includes the following steps:

[0231] Analyze shear waves propagating in a subject,

[0232] Set the acquisition condition of the scan data based on the analysis result of the shear wave,

[0233] Based on the acquisition conditions, perform a scan of the subject to obtain scan data of the subject.

[0234] (Supplementary Note 32)

[0235] A program that causes a computer to function as an analysis unit, a setting unit, and an acquisition unit.

[0236] The analysis unit analyzes shear waves propagating in the subject.

[0237] The setting unit sets acquisition conditions for scan data based on the analysis results of the shear waves.

[0238] The acquisition unit performs a scan of the subject based on the acquisition conditions and obtains scan data of the subject.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, characterized in that, Comprising: an analysis unit that analyzes shear waves propagating in a subject; a setting unit that sets acquisition conditions for scan data based on the analysis result of the shear waves; and an acquisition unit that performs a scan of the subject based on the acquisition conditions and acquires scan data of the subject.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the analysis unit analyzes first shear waves propagating at respective positions in a first measurement region of the subject, and the setting unit sets, as the acquisition conditions for the scan data, the transmission condition of a push pulse that generates second shear waves in a second measurement region of the subject and the transmission and reception conditions of a tracking pulse that observes the second shear waves, based on the analysis result of the first shear waves.

3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first measurement region is smaller than the second measurement region.

4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the setting unit sets, as the acquisition conditions for the scan data, conditions including at least one of the position and size of the second measurement region, based on the analysis result of the first shear waves.

5. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the setting unit sets, as the acquisition conditions for the scan data, conditions including at least any one of the measurement start time of the second shear waves, the measurement end time of the second shear waves, and the measurement time width at respective positions in the second measurement region, based on the analysis result of the first shear waves.

6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the analysis unit acquires, as the analysis result of the shear waves, tissue property index values indicating the tissue properties of the subject at respective positions in the first measurement region of the subject, and the setting unit sets the acquisition conditions for the scan data based on the tissue property index values at respective positions in the first measurement region.

7. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the tissue property index values are at least one of an elasticity index value indicating the elasticity of the tissue of the subject and a viscosity index value indicating the viscosity of the tissue of the subject.

8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the analysis unit acquires, as the analysis result of the shear waves, reliability index values indicating the reliability of the propagation of the first shear waves at respective positions in the first measurement region, and the setting unit sets the acquisition conditions for the scan data based on the reliability index values at respective positions in the first measurement region.

9. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein for a model that outputs acquisition conditions for scan data in response to an input of the analysis result of shear waves, the setting unit inputs the analysis result of the shear waves analyzed by the analysis unit and sets the acquisition conditions for the scan data output by the model.

10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein It includes a control unit that displays an ultrasonic image based on the scan data of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit.

11. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: It includes a control unit that displays an indicator indicating the position of the acquisition condition set by the setting unit within a range where the acquisition condition of the scan data can be set.

12. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that: The control unit displays the ultrasonic image based on the scan data of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit and the indicator side by side.

13. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that: The control unit displays the indicator before displaying the ultrasonic image based on the scan data of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit on the condition that the acquisition condition of the scan data is set by the setting unit.

14. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The setting unit sets the acquisition condition of the scan data based on at least one of the B-mode data and Doppler data of the subject and the analysis result of the shear wave.

15. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The setting unit sets the acquisition condition of the scan data related to at least one of the B-mode data and Doppler data of the subject based on the analysis result of the shear wave.

16. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The analysis unit analyzes the shear waves propagating in multiple different regions of the subject, and the setting unit sets the acquisition condition of the scan data based on the analysis results of the shear waves respectively corresponding to the multiple different regions.

17. A method, characterized in that, It includes the following steps: Analyze the shear waves propagating in the subject, Set the acquisition condition of the scan data based on the analysis result of the shear wave, Perform a scan of the subject based on the acquisition condition and obtain the scan data of the subject.

18. A storage medium that non-temporarily stores a program, characterized in that, This program causes a computer to execute the following respective processes: Analyze the shear waves propagating in the subject, Set the acquisition condition of the scan data based on the analysis result of the shear wave, Perform a scan of the subject based on the acquisition condition and obtain the scan data of the subject.

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