Ultrasound diagnostic device and program

Abstract

To organize and manage ultrasound data acquired from an ultrasound examination performed in a procedure different from a pre-registered examination procedure.SOLUTION: Ultrasound data is acquired by performing an ultrasound examination. An association unit 24 associates first ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to a pre-registered examination procedure with an examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination. The association unit 24 also associates second ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination in a procedure different from the pre-registered examination procedure with the examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In general, an examination using an ultrasound diagnostic device includes multiple examination steps. For example, the procedures for multiple examination steps are registered in advance in the ultrasound diagnostic device, and examinations corresponding to each examination step (e.g., B-mode imaging, Doppler imaging, etc.) are performed according to the procedures.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an apparatus for extracting a portion that needs to be corrected in the arrangement order of a plurality of image data.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes an apparatus that displays examination identification data by superimposing it on each examination mode image data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-173667 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2006-280640 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] When an ultrasonic inspection is performed according to a pre-registered inspection procedure, the ultrasonic data acquired by performing the ultrasonic inspection may be linked to the inspection process corresponding to the ultrasonic inspection.

[0007] Conventionally, when an ultrasound examination is performed in a procedure different from a preregistered examination procedure, the ultrasound data acquired by performing the ultrasound examination is simply stored in the order of acquisition. For example, after a certain examination is performed, additional ultrasound data may be acquired by performing an additional examination. In this case, the additional ultrasound data is stored in the order of acquisition. Therefore, it may be difficult for a user (e.g., a doctor or a medical technician) to know which examination process the ultrasound data belongs to.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to organize and manage ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination using a procedure different from a pre-registered examination procedure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure is an ultrasound diagnostic device including an acquisition unit that acquires ultrasound data by performing an ultrasound examination, and a linking unit that links first ultrasound data acquired by the acquisition unit by performing an ultrasound examination according to a pre-registered examination procedure to an examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination, wherein the linking unit further links second ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to a procedure different from the pre-registered examination procedure to the examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination.

[0010] The linking unit may link an inspection process designated by a user with the second ultrasound data.

[0011] The ultrasound diagnostic device may further include a display control unit that causes a display unit to display an image that typically represents an examination site that is a candidate for the ultrasound examination. The linking unit may link the second ultrasound data to an examination process that corresponds to an examination site designated by a user from the image.

[0012] The ultrasound diagnostic device may further include a display control unit, and the display control unit may further cause the first ultrasound data to be arranged on a display unit in accordance with an order of the examination steps associated with the first ultrasound data, and cause the second ultrasound data to be arranged on the display unit in accordance with an order of the examination steps associated with the second ultrasound data. When a user specifies an examination step on a screen on which the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data are displayed, the linking unit may correct the examination step linked to the second ultrasound data by linking the examination step specified by the user on the screen with the second ultrasound data.

[0013] When the second ultrasound data is acquired by the acquisition unit, information indicating an inspection process at which the second ultrasound data was acquired may be attached to the second ultrasound data as incidental information. When the inspection process indicated by the incidental information is different from an inspection process designated by a user, the linking unit may link the inspection process indicated by the incidental information with the second ultrasound data, thereby correcting the inspection process linked to the second ultrasound data.

[0014] The ultrasound diagnostic device may further include a display control unit, and the display control unit may display the ultrasound data group before the inspection process is corrected and the ultrasound data group after the inspection process is corrected side by side on the display unit. The ultrasound data group includes the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data.

[0015] The ultrasound diagnostic device may further include an analysis unit that analyzes the second ultrasound data to identify an examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination from which the second ultrasound data was obtained, and the linking unit may link the examination process identified by the analysis unit to the second ultrasound data.

[0016] The ultrasound diagnostic device may further include a display control unit, and the display control unit may further cause the first ultrasound data to be displayed on the display unit in accordance with an order of the examination steps, cause the second ultrasound data to be displayed on the display unit in accordance with an order of the examination steps designated by a user, and cause the second ultrasound data to be displayed on the display unit in accordance with an order of the examination steps corresponding to the ultrasound examination identified by the analysis unit. When a user designates an examination step on a screen on which the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data are displayed, the linking unit may correct the examination step linked to the second ultrasound data by linking the examination step designated by the user on the screen with the second ultrasound data.

[0017] One aspect of the present disclosure is a program that causes a computer to function as an acquisition means for acquiring ultrasound data by performing an ultrasound examination, and a linking means for linking first ultrasound data acquired by the acquisition means by performing an ultrasound examination according to a pre-registered examination procedure to an examination process corresponding to that ultrasound examination, wherein the linking means further links second ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to a procedure different from the pre-registered examination procedure to the examination process corresponding to that ultrasound examination. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to organize and manage ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination that is different from a pre-registered examination procedure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen on which an ultrasound image and a view list are displayed. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a view list. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of an ultrasound image. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a view list and an ultrasound image. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to an embodiment.

[0021] The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 transmits ultrasound waves into a subject using an ultrasound probe 12 and receives ultrasound waves reflected from within the subject, thereby generating an ultrasound image representing tissue within the subject.

[0022] The ultrasonic probe 12 is a device that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic probe 12 includes, for example, a 1D array transducer. The 1D array transducer is configured by arranging multiple ultrasonic transducers one-dimensionally. An ultrasonic beam is formed by the 1D array transducer, and the ultrasonic beam is repeatedly electronically scanned. As a result, a scanning plane is formed in the living body for each electronic scan. The ultrasonic probe 12 may include, instead of the 1D array transducer, a 2D array transducer formed by arranging multiple ultrasonic transducers two-dimensionally. As a scanning method, sector scanning, linear scanning, convex scanning, or the like is used. For example, the ultrasonic probe 12 includes an ultrasonic transducer.

[0023] The transmitting / receiving unit 14 functions as a transmitting beamformer and a receiving beamformer. During transmission, the transmitting / receiving unit 14 supplies a plurality of transmitting signals having a certain delay relationship to a plurality of ultrasonic transducers included in the ultrasonic probe 12. This forms an ultrasonic transmission beam. During reception, a reflected wave (RF signal) from inside the living body is received by the ultrasonic probe 12, and a plurality of receiving signals are output from the ultrasonic probe 12 to the transmitting / receiving unit 14. The transmitting / receiving unit 14 forms a receiving beam by applying a phasing addition process to the plurality of receiving signals. The beam data is output to the signal processing unit 16. That is, the transmitting / receiving unit 14 performs a delay process on the receiving signal obtained from each ultrasonic transducer according to the delay process condition for each ultrasonic transducer, and forms a receiving beam by adding the plurality of receiving signals obtained from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers. The delay process condition is specified by the receiving delay data indicating the delay time. A receiving delay data set (i.e., a set of delay times) corresponding to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers is supplied from the control unit 28.

[0024] The signal processing unit 16 generates an ultrasound image (for example, a B-mode image) by applying signal processing such as detection, amplitude compression (amplitude conversion) such as logarithmic compression, and conversion function (coordinate conversion function and interpolation processing function by a DSC (digital scan converter)), etc., to the beam data output from the transmission / reception unit 14. The ultrasound image is not limited to a B-mode image, and may be a color Doppler image, a pulse Doppler image, a strain imaging image, a shear wave elastography image, etc.

[0025] The transmitter / receiver 14 and the signal processor 16 together correspond to an example of an acquisition means.

[0026] The display processing unit 18 generates a display image by overlaying the necessary graphic data on the ultrasound image. The display image is output to the display unit 20. One or more images are displayed side by side in a display format according to the display mode.

[0027] The display unit 20 is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an EL display. An ultrasound image such as a B-mode image is displayed on the display unit 20. The display unit 20 may be a device that combines a display and an operation unit 32. For example, a GUI (Graphic User Interface) may be realized by the display unit 20. Also, a user interface such as a touch panel may be realized by the display unit 20.

[0028] The storage unit 22 configures one or more storage areas for storing data. The storage unit 22 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), various types of memory (for example, RAM, DRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (for example, optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof. Images generated by imaging using the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, information indicating imaging conditions, information about patients, etc. are stored in the storage unit 22.

[0029] The linking unit 24 links ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound inspection according to a preregistered inspection procedure with an inspection process corresponding to the ultrasound inspection. For example, the linking unit 24 links the ultrasound data with information indicating the inspection process corresponding to the ultrasound inspection, and stores the information in the storage unit 22.

[0030] The ultrasound data is beam data output from the transmitting / receiving unit 14, data output from the signal processing unit 16 (that is, an ultrasound image), or data output from the display processing unit 18 (that is, a display image).

[0031] An ultrasonic examination is an examination for acquiring ultrasonic data, such as B-mode imaging, Doppler imaging, etc. Of course, imaging and data acquisition other than these may also be included in an ultrasonic examination.

[0032] An examination procedure is a sequence of various examinations for diagnosing a subject. For example, the various examinations include an ultrasound examination and other processes. The other processes include displaying an ultrasound image, detecting an abnormality shown in the ultrasound image, displaying the abnormality, making measurements, adjusting the image, and displaying or creating a report. Of course, the various examinations do not have to include all or part of the other processes.

[0033] The examination procedure is determined in advance as an examination protocol. Information indicating the examination protocol (i.e., information indicating the examination procedure) is stored in advance in the storage unit 22. The examination protocol is created according to the examination purpose, examination area, medical department, etc., and is composed of a combination of one or more examination processes. An examination process is a process corresponding to an ultrasound examination or other examination. The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 operates according to the examination protocol to support the work of users such as doctors and medical technicians (e.g., examination work and diagnosis work). The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 has a protocol assistant function as an examination support function.

[0034] For example, an examination protocol is determined for each examination site or each medical department. Information indicating the examination protocol for each examination site or information indicating the examination protocol for each medical department is stored in advance in the storage unit 22. The examination site is the abdomen, chest, heart, blood vessels, neck, urinary organs, etc. The medical department is internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics, radiology, etc. Of course, the examination site and the medical department are not limited to these.

[0035] The examination protocol defines the order in which each examination should be performed. For example, the examination protocol defines that the following procedures are to be performed in the order of taking an ultrasound image, detecting an abnormality shown in the ultrasound image, measuring the abnormality, and creating a report. To explain the ultrasound image taking in detail, the site, cross section, area to be photographed by ultrasound, the photographing order, etc. are determined in advance and included in the examination protocol.

[0036] The analysis unit 26 analyzes the ultrasound data to identify an examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination in which the ultrasound data is acquired. For example, a cross section, a part, etc. in which the ultrasound examination is performed in the examination process are determined in advance. The analysis unit 26 applies image analysis to the ultrasound image to identify the cross section and the part in which the ultrasound image is acquired. Artificial intelligence (AI) and pattern matching are used as a technique for identifying the cross section and the examination part. For example, the analysis unit 26 identifies the cross section in which the ultrasound examination is acquired by performing a matching process for each cross section between the ultrasound image acquired by the ultrasound examination and a typical ultrasound image of each cross section. The analysis unit 26 identifies an examination process in which the ultrasound examination is performed for the identified cross section. An artificial intelligence may be generated by learning the ultrasound image acquired by the ultrasound examination, the cross section in which the ultrasound examination was performed, and the part in which the ultrasound examination was performed. The analysis unit 26 uses the artificial intelligence to identify the cross section and the part in which the ultrasound data is acquired, and identifies an examination process in which the ultrasound examination is performed for the identified cross section and the part in which the ultrasound examination is performed.

[0037] The control unit 28 controls the operation of each part of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 .

[0038] The control unit 28 includes a display control unit 30. The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display ultrasound data. The display control unit 30 may cause the display unit 20 to display information or images other than ultrasound data.

[0039] The operation unit 32 is a device that allows a user to input conditions and commands necessary for imaging to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10. For example, the operation unit 32 is an operation panel, a switch, a button, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, or the like.

[0040] This embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0041] An ultrasound examination may be performed in a procedure different from the examination procedure registered in advance. That is, an ultrasound examination not registered in advance in the examination protocol may be performed. For example, after a pre-registered examination procedure is completed, an additional ultrasound examination may be performed according to the instruction of a user such as a doctor or a medical technician. Also, an ultrasound examination not registered in advance in the examination protocol may be performed in the middle of a pre-registered examination procedure. In such a case, the linking unit 24 links the ultrasound data acquired by performing the ultrasound examination with the examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination. For example, the linking unit 24 links the ultrasound data with information indicating the examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination, and stores the information in the storage unit 22.

[0042] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to a pre-registered examination procedure is referred to as "first ultrasound data". In other words, ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to an examination procedure pre-registered in an examination protocol is referred to as "first ultrasound data". Ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to a procedure different from the pre-registered examination procedure is referred to as "second ultrasound data". In other words, ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound examination according to an examination procedure not pre-registered in an examination protocol is referred to as "second ultrasound data".

[0043] The inspection process to which the second ultrasound data is linked may be an inspection process according to a preregistered inspection procedure, or may be an additional inspection process not included in the inspection procedure. The linking unit 24 may link the second ultrasound data to an inspection process specified by a user, or may link the second ultrasound data to an inspection process selected automatically.

[0044] An example of an operation for linking ultrasound data to an examination process will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which an ultrasound image and a view list are displayed.

[0045] The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display an examination screen 34. The examination screen 34 includes a display area 36 and a display area 38. For example, the display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the examination screen 34 while an ultrasound examination is being performed (for example, while ultrasound imaging is being performed), after an ultrasound examination is performed, or after an examination protocol is completed.

[0046] The display area 36 is an area in which ultrasound data is displayed. When ultrasound data is acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound, the display controller 30 displays the ultrasound data in the display area 38. Here, as an example, a B-mode image 40 is displayed in the display area 38 as an example of ultrasound data.

[0047] The display area 38 is an area in which a view list 42 is displayed. The view list 42 includes one or more views. A view is an examination step. The view list 42 is a list representing the examination steps included in an examination protocol. In the view list 42, one or more views are arranged in line according to the examination procedure.

[0048] For example, the view list 42 is a list representing the examination steps included in an examination protocol called Examination A. The view list 42 includes "View 1", "View 2", ..., and "View m". "View 1", "View 2", ..., and "View m" are different examination steps, and are arranged in line according to the examination procedure. Examinations corresponding to each examination step are performed in the order of "View 1", "View 2", ..., and "View m". For example, B-mode images are captured and measurements are performed in each of "View 1", "View 2", ..., and "View m". For example, imaging conditions, etc. linked to the View are automatically set in the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, and an ultrasound examination corresponding to the View is performed. In this manner, imaging by the user is supported.

[0049] Image V1 is an image showing "View 1." Image V2 is an image showing "View 2." Image Vm is an image showing "View m." For example, images V1, V2,...,Vm are images showing icons or character strings. Images V1, V2,...,Vm are arranged and displayed according to the inspection procedure.

[0050] The control unit 28 controls each part of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 so that an ultrasound examination is performed in accordance with the examination protocol of Examination A. In other words, the control unit 28 controls each part of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 so that the examination is performed in the order of "View 1", "View 2", ..., "View m".

[0051] For example, the control unit 28 performs various settings for executing an ultrasonic examination corresponding to "View 1." When "View 1" is an examination process for acquiring a B-mode image of a certain cross section, the control unit 28 performs various settings for acquiring the B-mode image.

[0052] When ultrasound data (e.g., a B-mode image) is acquired in an examination process called "View 1," the linking unit 24 links the ultrasound data to information indicating "View 1" in the examination protocol of examination A, and stores the ultrasound data and the information indicating "View 1" in the memory unit 22.

[0053] After "View 1" is completed, the control unit 28 performs various settings for executing an ultrasonic examination corresponding to "View 2." If "View 2" is an examination process for acquiring a B-mode image of a certain cross section, the control unit 28 performs various settings for acquiring the B-mode image.

[0054] When ultrasound data (e.g., a B-mode image) is acquired in an examination process called "View 2," the linking unit 24 links the ultrasound data to information indicating "View 2" in the examination protocol of examination A, and stores the ultrasound data and the information indicating "View 2" in the memory unit 22.

[0055] Similarly, when ultrasound data is acquired in another examination process, the linking unit 24 links the acquired ultrasound data with information indicating the examination process (i.e., the view) in which the ultrasound data was acquired, and stores the data in the storage unit 22. For example, when a measurement is performed in an examination corresponding to a certain "View," the linking unit 24 links the measurement result with information indicating the examination process in which the measurement result was acquired, and stores the data in the storage unit 22.

[0056] In this manner, inspections corresponding to each inspection step are carried out in the order indicated by the view list 42, and data obtained in the inspections are associated with information indicating the inspection steps.

[0057] In the example shown in FIG. 2, ultrasound data "VIEWS2-1" and "VIEW2-2" are acquired in "View 2". Image V21 is an image showing the ultrasound data "VIEWS2-1". Image V22 is an image showing "VIEWS2-2". Images V21 and V22 are images showing icons, character strings, etc. Since the ultrasound data "VIEWS2-1" and "VIEW2-2" are acquired in "View 2", images V21 and V22 are displayed in a state linked to image V2. For example, images V21 and V22 are displayed near image V2. Each of the ultrasound data "VIEWS2-1" and "VIEW2-2" is linked to information showing "View 2" and stored in memory unit 22.

[0058] The ultrasound data acquired in each of "View 1", "View 2", . . . "View m" corresponds to an example of "first ultrasound data".

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 2, an additional examination, "View ?", is performed after the final examination step, "View m." Image Vx is an image showing the additional examination, "View ?". The ultrasound data acquired in "View ?" corresponds to an example of "second ultrasound data."

[0060] For example, when a user operates the operation unit 32 to instruct execution of an additional examination, the control unit 28 executes the additional examination in accordance with the instruction. If the additional examination is an examination for acquiring a B-mode image, the B-mode image is acquired by executing the additional examination.

[0061] The user can link the second ultrasound data acquired in "View ?" to a view (i.e., an examination process) specified by the user by operating the operation unit 32 to move the image Vx on the examination screen 34. For example, as indicated by the arrow 44, the user can link the second ultrasound data to a view by moving the image Vx on the examination screen 34. The user may move the image Vx by operating a mouse, or, if the examination screen 34 is configured with a touch panel, may move the image Vx by a touch operation.

[0062] For example, when the image Vx is moved between the image V2 indicating "View 2" and the image indicating the next view, "View 3", the linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data acquired in "View ?" to "View 2". In this case, the linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data to information indicating "View 2" and stores them in the storage unit 22.

[0063] Below, examples of linking the second ultrasound data to the inspection process will be described.

[0064] Example 1 In the first embodiment, the display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display an image that typically represents an examination site that is a candidate for an ultrasound examination. The linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data to an examination process that corresponds to the examination site designated by the user from the image. The first embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0065] A first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining the first embodiment. Fig. 3 shows an examination screen 46 and a view list 48. The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the examination screen 46 and the view list 48.

[0066] A pictogram 50 is displayed on the examination screen 46. The pictogram 50 is an example of an image that typically represents a region to be examined that is a candidate for an ultrasound examination. The pictogram 50 is an image that represents one or more organs. The organs represented in the pictogram 50 are an example of the region to be examined.

[0067] The organ shown in the pictogram 50 is associated in advance with a view (i.e., an examination step) registered in the view list 48. For example, for each organ, the organ is associated in advance with a view in which the organ is to be photographed. Information indicating the association is registered in advance in the examination protocol. By specifying an organ shown in the pictogram 50, a view corresponding to the organ is specified.

[0068] 3, the user operates the operation unit 32 to specify the organ S8 with the pointer 52. If the examination screen 46 is configured with a touch panel, the organ S8 may be specified by a touch operation.

[0069] The organ S8 is preliminarily linked to "View 20" registered in the view list 48. By specifying the organ S8, "View 20" is specified.

[0070] 3, "View 1" to "View 25" are registered in advance in the examination protocol. The view list 48 includes these "Views."

[0071] When the user operates the operation unit 32 to instruct the execution of "Detailed Examination 1" and "Detailed Examination 2", the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 executes an ultrasound examination corresponding to "Detailed Examination 1" and an ultrasound examination corresponding to "Detailed Examination 2". For example, the conditions of the ultrasound examinations are specified by the user. The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 executes the ultrasound examinations corresponding to each "Detailed Examination" according to the specified conditions. As a result, second ultrasound data corresponding to "Detailed Examination 1" and second ultrasound data corresponding to "Detailed Examination 2" are acquired.

[0072] When the user operates the operation unit 32 to specify the organ S8 from the pictogram 50, the linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data acquired in the "close examination 1" and the second ultrasound data acquired in the "close examination 2" to the "View 20" linked to the organ S8. In FIG. 3, as indicated by the reference numeral 54, the linking state is shown in schematic form. When the user operates the operation unit 32 to specify the "View 20" included in the view list 48, the linking unit 24 may link the second ultrasound data acquired in the "close examination 1" and the second ultrasound data acquired in the "close examination 2" to the "View 20". The linking unit 24 stores information indicating the linking in the storage unit 22.

[0073] 3, the user specifies "View 20" that is already registered in the examination protocol, and the ultrasound data is linked to "View 20." As another example, a "View" may be added to the examination protocol, and the second ultrasound data may be linked to the added "View."

[0074] The process of linking the second ultrasound data to a newly added "View" will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an examination screen 46 and a view list 56. The display control unit 30 causes the examination screen 46 and the view list 56 to be displayed on the display unit 20. In the example shown in Fig. 4, "View 1" to "View 25" are registered in the examination protocol. The view list 56 includes these "Views."

[0075] According to the user's instructions, additional examinations "Detailed Examination 1" and "Detailed Examination 2" are performed, and second ultrasound data is acquired for each ultrasound examination.

[0076] When the user operates the operation unit 32 to instruct the addition of a "View," the linking unit 24 creates a new "View" and adds it to the examination protocol. In the example shown in Fig. 4, a "View 26" is newly created and added to the examination protocol.

[0077] The linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data acquired in "Detailed Examination 1" and the second ultrasound data acquired in "Detailed Examination 2" to "View 26". In Fig. 4, as indicated by reference numeral 58, the linking is shown in schematic form. The linking unit 24 stores information indicating the linking in the storage unit 22.

[0078] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the user can link ultrasound data acquired by an additional ultrasound examination to the ultrasound examination by performing a simple operation such as an operation on the pictogram 50 or a view list.

[0079] Example 2 When ultrasound data is acquired, incidental information is attached to the ultrasound data. For example, the control unit 28 attaches incidental information to the ultrasound data. The incidental information includes identification information of the subject (e.g., information indicating a patient ID or a name), information indicating an examination type, measurement information, setting information, and information indicating a view (i.e., an examination process), etc.

[0080] For example, when an ultrasound examination is performed, identification information of the subject is input to the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. Information indicating the examination type, setting information, and information indicating the view are preliminarily associated with the ultrasound examination. When an ultrasound examination is performed and ultrasound data is acquired, these pieces of information are attached to the acquired ultrasound data as incidental information. When an additional ultrasound examination is performed and second ultrasound data is acquired, the incidental information is attached to the second ultrasound data.

[0081] In the second embodiment, when the examination process (i.e., view) indicated by the additional information attached to the second ultrasound data is different from the examination process designated by the user, the linking unit 24 links the examination process indicated by the additional information to the second ultrasound data. In this way, the linking unit 24 corrects the examination process linked to the second ultrasound data.

[0082] Example 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows a view list 60. For example, an ultrasound examination corresponding to "View 2" is additionally performed, and thus ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" are acquired. The ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" are examples of second ultrasound data. Accompanying information is attached to the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20". The accompanying information includes information indicating "View 2".

[0083] After the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" are acquired, the user links the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" to the inspection process "View m." In other words, information indicating "View m" is linked to each of the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20."

[0084] "View m" is different from "View 2" indicated by the supplementary information. In this case, the linking unit 24 releases "View m" linked to the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20", and links the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" to "View 2". By doing so, the linking unit 24 corrects the inspection process linked to the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20". As a result of this correction, "View 2" is linked to the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20", and "View m" is not linked to the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20".

[0085] For example, when the user operates the operation unit 32 to instruct a correction of the examination process, the linking unit 24 corrects the view (i.e., the examination process) linked to the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" from "View m" to "View 2."

[0086] In the example shown in FIG. 5, image V19 is an image indicating ultrasound data "VIEWS19". Image V20 is an image indicating ultrasound data "VIEWS20". Since the ultrasound data "VIEWS19" and "VIEWS20" were linked to "View m" by a user instruction, images V19 and V20 were linked to image Vm indicating "View m". Linking unit 24 corrects the linking, thereby linking images V19 and V20 to image V2 indicating "View 2". For example, as indicated by reference numeral 62, images V19 and V20 are moved to image V2 and linked to image V2.

[0087] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the ultrasound data is linked to the inspection process based on the accompanying information attached to the ultrasound data, and the ultrasound data is reorganized.

[0088] Example 3 In the third embodiment, the linking unit 24 links the second ultrasonic data with the inspection process based on the result of the analysis by the analysis unit 26.

[0089] The analysis unit 26 analyzes the second ultrasound data to identify the examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination from which the second ultrasound data is obtained. For example, the analysis unit 26 identifies the cross section and examination site scanned by ultrasound in the ultrasound examination. That is, the analysis unit 26 identifies the cross section and examination site from which the second ultrasound data was obtained. The cross section and examination site scanned by ultrasound in the ultrasound examination are determined in advance, and the cross section and the examination site are linked to the ultrasound examination in advance. By identifying the cross section and examination site from which the second ultrasound data was obtained, the ultrasound examination from which the second ultrasound data is obtained is identified.

[0090] For example, the analysis unit 26 applies a technique for analyzing similar images to the second ultrasound data to identify the ultrasound examination from which the second ultrasound data was acquired. As a technique for analyzing similar images, artificial intelligence (AI) may be used, or a judgment technique using statistical structural pattern recognition may be used. An image serving as a reference for a similar image may be reference data prepared in advance, or may be data already acquired by performing an examination. A learning model may be used. The analysis unit 26 attaches additional information to the second ultrasound data based on the result of the recognition.

[0091] The linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data to the inspection process identified by the analysis unit 26.

[0092] For example, when second ultrasound data is acquired by an additional ultrasound examination, the analysis unit 26 analyzes the second ultrasound data to identify the cross section or examination site from which the second ultrasound data was acquired, and to identify the examination process corresponding to the ultrasound examination from which the second ultrasound data was acquired. The linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data to the identified examination process. For example, if the examination process is "View 2", the linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data to information indicating "View 2".

[0093] For example, when a user operates the operation unit 32 to instruct execution of the process according to the third embodiment, the process according to the third embodiment is executed and the second ultrasound data is associated with the inspection process.

[0094] According to the third embodiment, the user does not need to manually associate the second ultrasound data with the inspection process, which reduces the burden on the user.

[0095] Example 4 In the fourth embodiment, the display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display a group of ultrasound data before the inspection process is corrected and a group of ultrasound data after the inspection process is corrected side by side. The group of ultrasound data includes the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data. In other words, the display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display a group of ultrasound data before being organized and a group of ultrasound data after being organized side by side.

[0096] A fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows a display example of an ultrasound image. For example, the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data are a B-mode image, a color Doppler image, or the like. Of course, the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data are not limited to these images.

[0097] The display controller 30 generates thumbnail images (i.e., reduced images) of the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data. For example, the display controller 30 generates thumbnail images of ultrasound images such as B-mode images and color Doppler images.

[0098] The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display multiple thumbnail images before the inspection process is corrected in accordance with the order of the inspection process, and causes the display unit 20 to display multiple thumbnail images after the inspection process is corrected in accordance with the order of the inspection process.

[0099] An example of the display is shown in Fig. 6. Image group 64 includes multiple thumbnail images before the linked inspection process is corrected. That is, image group 64 includes multiple thumbnail images before reorganization. Image group 66 includes multiple thumbnail images after the linked inspection process is corrected. That is, image group 66 includes multiple thumbnail images after reorganization. Display control unit 30 causes image group 64 and image group 66 to be displayed side by side on display unit 20.

[0100] The image groups 64, 66 include thumbnail images 71 to 84. Each of the thumbnail images 71 to 84 is an image generated by reducing an ultrasound image such as a B-mode image or a color Doppler image. Each of the thumbnail images 71 to 84 is a thumbnail image generated from separate ultrasound data (for example, an ultrasound image such as a B-mode image or a color Doppler image).

[0101] Each of the thumbnail images 71 to 79 and 82 to 84 is a thumbnail image of the first ultrasound data. Each of the thumbnail images 80 and 81 is a thumbnail image of the second ultrasound data.

[0102] Also displayed are images 86 to 100 that represent the inspection process "View." The images 86 to 92 are included in the image group 64. The images 94 to 100 are included in the image group 66.

[0103] The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the images 86 to 92 representing "Views" in order according to the order of the examination steps registered in the examination protocol. Ultrasound examinations corresponding to each examination step are performed in the order of "View 1," "View 2," ..., "View m," and "View n." Therefore, the images 86 to 92 are displayed in that order.

[0104] Similarly, the display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the images 94 to 100 representing "Views" in order of the examination steps registered in the examination protocol. Ultrasound examinations corresponding to the examination steps are performed in the order of "View 1," "View 2," ..., "View m," and "View n." Therefore, the images 94 to 100 are displayed in that order.

[0105] Each of the first ultrasound data and each of the second ultrasound data is associated with a "View" (i.e., an examination process). In accordance with the association, the display control unit 30 associates each thumbnail image with information indicating a "View" and causes the display unit 20 to display the images.

[0106] For example, the first ultrasound data on which thumbnail image 71 is based and the first ultrasound data on which thumbnail image 72 is based are ultrasound data acquired in an examination step called "View 1." Therefore, the display control unit 30 associates thumbnail images 71 and 72 with an image 86 representing "View 1" and displays them on the display unit 20. For example, the display control unit 30 displays thumbnail images 71 and 72 near image 86 representing "View 1." The same applies to thumbnail images corresponding to other first ultrasound data.

[0107] The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the thumbnail images 71 to 79 and 82 to 84 corresponding to the first ultrasound data in the order of the examination steps registered in the examination protocol.

[0108] The display control unit 30 arranges the thumbnail images 80, 81 corresponding to the second ultrasound data in the image group 64 at positions corresponding to the order of the examination steps specified by the user, and displays the thumbnail images 80, 81 on the display unit 20. This arrangement is the state before correction (i.e., the state before rearrangement). For example, since the user has specified an examination step called "View m," the display control unit 30 displays the thumbnail images 80, 81 near the image 90 representing "View m."

[0109] As described in the second embodiment, after the inspection process designated by the user is linked to the second ultrasound data, the inspection process included in the supplementary information is linked to the second ultrasound data, and the inspection process linked to the second ultrasound data is corrected. In other words, the inspection process is reorganized.

[0110] The second ultrasound data on which the thumbnail image 80 is based and the second ultrasound data on which the thumbnail image 81 is based were linked by the user to an inspection process called "View m", but the associated information of these second ultrasound data includes information indicating the inspection process called "View 2". In this case, the linking unit 24 releases the linking of "View m" from these second ultrasound data and links the inspection process called "View 2" to these second ultrasound data. This corrects the inspection process and organizes the inspection process.

[0111] The display control unit 30 arranges the thumbnail images 80, 81 corresponding to the second ultrasound data in the image group 66 at positions corresponding to the corrected order of the examination steps, and displays the thumbnail images 80, 81 on the display unit 20. This arrangement is the corrected state (i.e., the organized state).

[0112] As indicated by the arrow 102 in FIG. 6, the thumbnail images 80 and 81 are moved from the pre-correction "View m" to the corrected "View 2" and are displayed near the image 96 representing "View 2".

[0113] Since the image groups 64 and 66 are displayed side by side, the user can visually check whether the linkage of the inspection processes has been correctly corrected (that is, rearranged).

[0114] For example, before the correction, thumbnail images 80 and 81 were displayed linked to "View m," and after the correction, they are displayed linked to "View 2." By referring to this display state, the user can visually recognize that the examination process linked to the second ultrasound data has been changed from "View m" to "View 2."

[0115] As another example different from the above example, "View 2" linked to the thumbnail images 80 and 81 included in the image group 66 may be an examination process linked based on the analysis result by the analysis unit 26. That is, the display control unit 30 may cause the display unit 20 to display side by side the image group 64 including thumbnail images of the second ultrasound data to which an examination process is linked by the user and the image group 66 including thumbnail images of the second ultrasound data to which an examination process is linked based on the analysis result by the analysis unit 26. In this way, the user can compare and consider the result of the linking by the user and the result of the linking based on the analysis result.

[0116] Example 5 In the fifth embodiment, the display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasound data arranged in accordance with the order of the inspection steps associated with the first ultrasound data, and causes the display unit 20 to display the second ultrasound data arranged in accordance with the order of the inspection steps associated with the second ultrasound data. The display control unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data arranged in accordance with the order.

[0117] When the user specifies an inspection process on the screen of the display unit 20 on which the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data are displayed, the linking unit 24 links the inspection process specified by the user on the screen with the second ultrasound data, thereby correcting the inspection process linked to the second ultrasound data. That is, the linking unit 24 releases the linking of the inspection process originally linked to the second ultrasound data, and links the inspection process specified by the user with the second ultrasound data. This corrects the inspection process linked to the second ultrasound data. Information indicating the inspection process originally linked to the second ultrasound data is not linked to the second ultrasound data, and information indicating the inspection process specified by the user is linked to the second ultrasound data.

[0118] A fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 shows a display example of a view list and an ultrasound image.

[0119] The screen 104 is displayed on the display unit 20. For example, when a user instructs display of the screen 104, the display control unit 30 causes the screen 104 to be displayed on the display unit 20. A view list 106, an image group 108, and an image group 110 are displayed on the screen 104.

[0120] The view list 106 includes a plurality of views registered in the examination protocol of the examination A.

[0121] Each of the image groups 108 and 110 includes a plurality of thumbnail images, similar to the image groups 64 and 66 (see FIG. 6). Each thumbnail image is a reduced image of ultrasound data (e.g., ultrasound images such as B-mode images and color Doppler images). The image group 108 is an image group before the linking of the inspection processes is corrected. The image group 110 is an image group after the linking of the inspection processes is corrected.

[0122] Of the thumbnail images included in the image groups 108 and 110, the thumbnail images 112 and 114 are thumbnail images of the second ultrasound data. The thumbnail images other than the thumbnail images 112 and 114 are thumbnail images of the first ultrasound data.

[0123] As in the display example of FIG. 6, the thumbnail images corresponding to the first ultrasound data are displayed in order of the examination steps registered in the examination protocol.

[0124] Also, images representing "Views" are displayed, similarly to the display example of Fig. 6. For example, an image representing "View 1", an image representing "View 2", ..., an image representing "View m", and an image representing "View n" are included in each of the image groups 108 and 110, and are displayed arranged in the order of the inspection process.

[0125] Before the linking of the examination steps is corrected, the thumbnail images 112 and 114 are displayed linked to the image representing "View m" (see image group 108). That is, the second ultrasound data corresponding to each of the thumbnail images 112 and 114 is linked to the examination step called "View m." This linking may be performed by a user or automatically by the analysis unit 26 or the like.

[0126] The user can correct the inspection process associated with the ultrasound data by following these steps:

[0127] First, the user operates the operation unit 32 to select a thumbnail image to be corrected from the image group 108. The user may select a thumbnail image by operating a device such as a mouse, or may select a thumbnail image by touching a touch panel. Here, as an example, thumbnail images 112 and 114 corresponding to the second ultrasound data are selected.

[0128] Next, the user operates the operation unit 32 to select an image representing a "View" corresponding to the corrected inspection process from among the images representing "Views" included in the image group 110. For example, when the user selects the image 116 representing "View 2", the display control unit 30 moves the thumbnail images 112 and 114 from the display position of the image representing "View m" in the image group 108 to the display position of the image 116 representing "View 2" in the image group 110, as indicated by the arrow 118. As a result, the thumbnail images 112 and 114 are displayed near the image representing "View 2" in the image group 110. The linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data corresponding to the thumbnail images 112 and 114, respectively, to the inspection process called "View 2". That is, the linking unit 24 deletes the information indicating "View m" linked to the second ultrasound data corresponding to each of the thumbnail images 112 and 114, and links the second ultrasound data corresponding to each of the thumbnail images 112 and 114 to the information indicating "View 2." In this way, the examination process linked to the second ultrasound data is corrected.

[0129] The user may correct the examination process linked to the ultrasound data by moving the thumbnail image on the screen 104. For example, the user operates the operation unit 32 to select the thumbnail images 112, 114 included in the image group 108. The user drags the selected thumbnail images 112, 114 to the position of the image 116 representing "View 2" and drops them at that position. The linking unit 24 corrects the examination process linked to the second ultrasound data corresponding to each of the thumbnail images 112, 114 to the examination process called "View 2". When the screen 104 is configured as a touch panel, the user may move the thumbnail images 112, 114 by a touch operation, a slide operation, or the like.

[0130] The inspection process linked to the first ultrasound data may be corrected. For example, the user moves the thumbnail image of the first ultrasound data from the display position of the image showing the "View" before the correction to the display position of the image showing the "View" after the correction. In this case, the linking unit 24 releases the link between the first ultrasound data and the "View" before the correction, and links the first ultrasound data with the "View" after the correction. Of course, the user may specify an image showing the "View" after the correction to correct the inspection process linked to the first ultrasound data.

[0131] Example 6 As another example in the fifth embodiment, "View 2" linked to the thumbnail images 112 and 114 included in the image group 110 may be an inspection process linked based on the analysis result by the analysis unit 26. "View 2" linked to the thumbnail images 112 and 114 included in the image group 108 is an inspection process linked by a user.

[0132] That is, the image group 108 includes thumbnail images 112, 114 of the second ultrasound data linked to an examination process by the user. The image group 110 includes thumbnail images 112, 114 of the second ultrasound data linked to an examination process based on the analysis result by the analysis unit 26.

[0133] As in the fifth embodiment, when the user selects thumbnail images 112, 114 from the image group 108 and selects an inspection process, the linking unit 24 links the second ultrasound data corresponding to each of the thumbnail images 112, 114 to the selected inspection process. This corrects the inspection process linked to the second ultrasound data. As in the fifth embodiment, the corrected inspection process may be selected by moving the thumbnail image by a drag-and-drop operation, a slide operation, or the like on the thumbnail image.

[0134] According to the sixth embodiment, by comparing the image groups 108 and 110, the user can compare the examination process that the user has linked to the second ultrasound data with the examination process that has been automatically linked to the second ultrasound data based on the analysis results of the analysis unit 26.

[0135] The signal processing unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the linking unit 24, the analysis unit 26, the control unit 28, and the display control unit 30 can be realized by using hardware resources such as a processor or an electronic circuit, and a device such as a memory may be used for the realization as necessary. In addition, the signal processing unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the linking unit 24, the analysis unit 26, the control unit 28, and the display control unit 30 may be realized by a computer, for example. In other words, the signal processing unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the linking unit 24, the analysis unit 26, the control unit 28, and the display control unit 30 may be realized in whole or in part by cooperation between hardware resources such as a central processing unit (CPU) and memory provided in a computer and software (program) that specifies the operation of the CPU, etc. The program is stored in the storage unit 22 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 or other storage device via a recording medium such as a CD or a DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. As another example, the signal processing unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the linking unit 24, the analysis unit 26, the control unit 28, and the display control unit 30 may be realized by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like. Of course, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or the like may be used. The signal processing unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the linking unit 24, the analysis unit 26, the control unit 28, and the display control unit 30 may be realized by a single device, or each function of the signal processing unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the linking unit 24, the analysis unit 26, the control unit 28, and the display control unit 30 may be realized by one or more devices.

[0136] The linking by the linking unit 24 and the analysis by the analysis unit 26 may be performed by a device other than the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 (for example, a personal computer, a server, etc.). [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 10 ultrasound diagnostic device, 24 linking unit, 26 analysis unit, 30 display control unit.

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires ultrasound data by performing an ultrasound examination; a linking unit that links the first ultrasonic data acquired by the acquiring unit by performing an ultrasonic inspection according to a preregistered inspection procedure with an inspection process corresponding to the ultrasonic inspection; Including, The linking unit further links second ultrasound data acquired by performing an ultrasound inspection in a procedure different from the preregistered inspection procedure with an inspection process corresponding to the ultrasound inspection.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

2. 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The linking unit links the second ultrasound data with an inspection process designated by a user.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

3. 3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, The present invention further includes a display control unit that causes the display unit to display an image that is a schematic representation of an examination site that is a candidate for an ultrasound examination, The linking unit links an examination process corresponding to an examination part designated by a user from the image with the second ultrasound data.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

4. 3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, Further including a display control unit, The display control unit further causes the first ultrasound data to be arranged on the display unit in accordance with the order of the inspection processes associated with the first ultrasound data, and causes the second ultrasound data to be arranged on the display unit in accordance with the order of the inspection processes associated with the second ultrasound data, When a user specifies an inspection process on a screen on which the first ultrasonic data and the second ultrasonic data are displayed, the linking unit links the inspection process specified by the user on the screen with the second ultrasonic data, thereby correcting the inspection process linked to the second ultrasonic data.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

5. 3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, When the second ultrasound data is acquired by the acquisition unit, information indicating an inspection process in which the second ultrasound data was acquired is added to the second ultrasound data as additional information, When the inspection process indicated by the incidental information is different from the inspection process designated by the user, the linking unit links the inspection process indicated by the incidental information with the second ultrasound data, thereby correcting the inspection process linked to the second ultrasound data.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

6. 6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, Further including a display control unit, The display control unit causes the display unit to display the ultrasound data group before the inspection process is corrected and the ultrasound data group after the inspection process is corrected side by side, The group of ultrasound data includes the first ultrasound data and the second ultrasound data.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

7. 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, An analysis unit that analyzes the second ultrasonic data to identify an inspection process corresponding to the ultrasonic inspection from which the second ultrasonic data is obtained, The linking unit links the inspection process identified by the analysis unit with the second ultrasound data.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

8. 8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, Further including a display control unit, The display control unit further causes the display unit to display the first ultrasound data in accordance with the order of the examination steps, causes the display unit to display the second ultrasound data in accordance with the order of the examination steps designated by a user, and causes the display unit to display the second ultrasound data in accordance with the order of the examination steps corresponding to the ultrasound examination specified by the analysis unit, When a user specifies an inspection process on a screen on which the first ultrasonic data and the second ultrasonic data are displayed, the linking unit links the inspection process specified by the user on the screen with the second ultrasonic data, thereby correcting the inspection process linked to the second ultrasonic data.

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

9. Computer, an acquisition means for acquiring ultrasound data by performing an ultrasound examination; a linking means for linking the first ultrasonic data acquired by the acquiring means by executing an ultrasonic inspection according to a preregistered inspection procedure with an inspection process corresponding to the ultrasonic inspection; Function as a The linking means further links second ultrasonic data acquired by performing an ultrasonic inspection in a procedure different from the preregistered inspection procedure with an inspection process corresponding to the ultrasonic inspection. A program characterized by:

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