Ultrasonic diagnostic device, method, and program

Abstract

To improve diagnostic efficiency.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic diagnostic device includes a reception unit, a tracking unit, and a display control unit. The reception unit receives a setting operation for setting a sample gate for designating the position of a part for collecting Doppler information. The tracking unit tracks the position of a part in which the sample gate is set. The display control unit executes control to display information on the tracking precision for the position of the part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification relate to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, a method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, ultrasonic diagnostic devices generate and display a Doppler spectrum (Doppler waveform) showing blood flow velocity information using Doppler information (Doppler signal) extracted from reflected ultrasonic waves. A Doppler waveform is a waveform in which blood flow velocity is plotted in time series in a range set by an operator as an observation area. The range is set by the operator with reference to a two-dimensional ultrasonic image (two-dimensional B-mode image or two-dimensional color Doppler image).

[0003] For example, in PW mode, which collects Doppler waveforms using the Pulsed Wave (PW) Doppler method, the operator places a sample gate at a specific location in the blood vessel according to the course of the blood vessel depicted in the 2D ultrasound image. In PW mode, a Doppler waveform showing blood flow velocity information within the sample gate is displayed.

[0004] The above-mentioned sample gate may deviate from the site set by the operator due to the influence of body movement, etc. Therefore, as a method for dealing with such deviation, a method of tracking the sample gate using template matching is known. In this method, for example, after the sample gate is set, template matching is performed on two-dimensional ultrasound images collected in real time to track the site where the sample gate is set, and the position of the sample gate is moved. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-74392 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in the present specification are intended to solve is to improve diagnostic efficiency. However, the problems solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be considered as other problems solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a reception unit, a tracking unit, and a display control unit. The reception unit receives a setting operation for setting a sample gate that specifies a position of a region from which Doppler information is to be collected. The tracking unit tracks the position of the region to which the sample gate is set. The display control unit controls to display information related to the accuracy of tracking the position of the region. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the procedure of processing performed by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of setting of a sample gate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example according to the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, method, and program according to the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, method, and program according to the present application are not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0010] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 according to the present embodiment has an ultrasonic probe 1, a display 2, an input interface 3, and a device main body 4, and the ultrasonic probe 1, the display 2, and the input interface 3 are connected to the device main body 4 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0011] The ultrasonic probe 1 is connected to a transmission / reception circuit 41 included in the device body 4. The ultrasonic probe 1 has, for example, a plurality of piezoelectric transducers in the probe body, and these plurality of piezoelectric transducers generate ultrasonic waves based on a drive signal supplied from the transmission / reception circuit 41. The ultrasonic probe 1 also receives reflected waves from the subject and converts them into electrical signals. The ultrasonic probe 1 also has, in the probe body, a matching layer provided on the piezoelectric transducer, and a backing material that prevents the propagation of ultrasonic waves backward from the piezoelectric transducer. The ultrasonic probe 1 is detachably connected to the device body 4. For example, the ultrasonic probe 1 is a sector type, linear type, or convex type ultrasonic probe.

[0012] When ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 1 to the subject, the transmitted ultrasonic waves are successively reflected by discontinuous surfaces of acoustic impedance in the tissues of the subject's body, and are received as reflected wave signals by the multiple piezoelectric transducers of the ultrasonic probe 1. The amplitude of the received reflected wave signal depends on the difference in acoustic impedance at the discontinuous surfaces where the ultrasonic waves are reflected. When the transmitted ultrasonic pulse is reflected by the surface of a moving blood flow or a heart wall, the reflected wave signal undergoes a frequency shift due to the Doppler effect depending on the velocity component of the moving body in the ultrasonic transmission direction.

[0013] The ultrasonic probe 1 may be a one-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric transducers are arranged in a row, or may be an ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric transducers of a one-dimensional ultrasonic probe are mechanically vibrated, or a two-dimensional ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of piezoelectric transducers are arranged two-dimensionally in a lattice pattern.

[0014] Here, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to this embodiment collects Doppler waveforms by the pulsed wave (PW) Doppler method. In this embodiment, the ultrasound probe 1 connected to the device body 4 is an ultrasound probe that can transmit and receive ultrasound for capturing B-mode image data and color Doppler image data, as well as transmit and receive ultrasound for collecting PW-mode Doppler waveforms by the PW Doppler method.

[0015] The display 2 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for the operator of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 to input various setting requests using the input interface 3, ultrasound images generated in the apparatus main body 4, etc. The display 2 also displays various messages and display information to notify the operator of the processing status and processing results of the apparatus main body 4. The display 2 also has a speaker and can output sound.

[0016] The input interface 3 is operated to set a predetermined position (for example, the position of a sample gate, etc.), and is realized by, for example, a trackball, a switch button, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad that performs input operations by touching the operation surface, a touch monitor in which a display screen and a touch pad are integrated, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, and a voice input circuit. The input interface 3 is connected to a processing circuit 45 described later, and converts an input operation received from an operator into an electric signal and outputs it to the processing circuit 45. Note that in this specification, the input interface 3 is not limited to only those having physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electric signal processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electric signal to the processing circuit 45 is also included as an example of an input interface.

[0017] The device main body 4 has a transmission / reception circuit 41, a B-mode processing circuit 42, a Doppler processing circuit 43, a memory 44, and a processing circuit 45. In the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 shown in FIG. 1, each processing function is stored in the memory 44 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The transmission / reception circuit 41, the B-mode processing circuit 42, the Doppler processing circuit 43, and the processing circuit 45 are processors that realize functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 44. In other words, each circuit in a state in which each program has been read has a function corresponding to the read program.

[0018] The transmission / reception circuit 41 has a pulse generator, a transmission delay circuit, a pulser, etc., and supplies a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 1. The pulse generator repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming a transmission ultrasonic wave at a predetermined rate frequency. The transmission delay circuit focuses the ultrasonic waves generated from the ultrasonic probe 1 into a beam shape and provides each rate pulse generated by the pulse generator with a delay time for each piezoelectric transducer required to determine the transmission directivity. The pulser applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to the ultrasonic probe 1 at a timing based on the rate pulse. In other words, the transmission delay circuit changes the delay time provided to each rate pulse to arbitrarily adjust the transmission direction of the ultrasonic waves transmitted from the piezoelectric transducer surface.

[0019] The transmission / reception circuit 41 has a function of instantaneously changing the transmission frequency, transmission drive voltage, etc., in order to execute a predetermined scan sequence based on instructions from the processing circuit 45, which will be described later. In particular, the change in the transmission drive voltage is realized by a linear amplifier type oscillation circuit that can instantly switch its value, or a mechanism that electrically switches between multiple power supply units.

[0020] The transmission / reception circuit 41 also has a preamplifier, an A / D (Analog / Digital) converter, a reception delay circuit, an adder, etc., and performs various processes on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 1 to generate reflected wave data. The preamplifier amplifies the reflected wave signal for each channel. The A / D converter A / D converts the amplified reflected wave signal. The reception delay circuit provides a delay time required to determine the reception directivity. The adder performs addition processing on the reflected wave signal processed by the reception delay circuit to generate reflected wave data. The addition processing by the adder emphasizes the reflected component from a direction according to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signal, and an overall beam for ultrasonic transmission and reception is formed by the reception directivity and transmission directivity.

[0021] The B-mode processing circuit 42 receives the reflected wave data from the transmission / reception circuit 41, and performs logarithmic amplification, envelope detection processing, etc. to generate data (B-mode data) in which the signal intensity is expressed as luminance brightness.

[0022] The Doppler processing circuit 43 performs frequency analysis on the velocity information from the reflected wave data received from the transmission / reception circuit 41, extracts blood flow, tissue, and contrast agent echo components due to the Doppler effect, and generates data (Doppler data) in which moving object information such as velocity, dispersion, and power is extracted for multiple points. For example, the moving object is a fluid such as blood flowing in blood vessels or lymph fluid flowing in lymphatic vessels.

[0023] The B-mode processing circuit 42 and the Doppler processing circuit 43 can process both two-dimensional reflected wave data and three-dimensional reflected wave data. That is, the B-mode processing circuit 42 generates two-dimensional B-mode data from the two-dimensional reflected wave data, and generates three-dimensional B-mode data from the three-dimensional reflected wave data. The Doppler processing circuit 43 generates two-dimensional Doppler data from the two-dimensional reflected wave data, and generates three-dimensional Doppler data from the three-dimensional reflected wave data.

[0024] The B-mode processing circuit 42 can also generate three-dimensional reflected wave data by synthesizing a plurality of two-dimensional reflected wave data, and generate three-dimensional B-mode data from the generated three-dimensional reflected wave data. The Doppler processing circuit 43 can also generate three-dimensional reflected wave data by synthesizing a plurality of two-dimensional reflected wave data, and generate three-dimensional Doppler data from the generated three-dimensional reflected wave data.

[0025] The memory 44 stores ultrasonic images for display generated by the processing circuitry 45. The memory 44 can also store B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing circuitry 42 and Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing circuitry 43. The memory 44 also stores control programs for performing ultrasonic transmission / reception, image processing, and display processing, diagnostic information (e.g., patient ID, doctor's findings, etc.), diagnostic protocols, various body marks, and other various data. The memory 44 also stores various information related to template matching, which will be described later.

[0026] The processing circuitry 45 controls the overall processing of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. Specifically, the processing circuitry 45 performs various processes by reading out from the memory 44 programs corresponding to the control function 451, image generation function 452, movement control function 453, tracking function 454, and measurement function 455 shown in Fig. 1 and executing them. For example, the processing circuitry 45 is a processor that realizes the function corresponding to each program by reading out each program from the memory 44 and executing it. In other words, the processing circuitry 45 in a state in which each program has been read out has each function shown in the processing circuitry 45 in Fig. 1.

[0027] Here, the control function 451 is an example of a reception unit and a display control unit. The movement control function 453 is an example of a movement control unit. The tracking function 454 is an example of a tracking unit. The measurement function 455 is an example of a measurement function. Note that, in this embodiment, each processing function described below is realized by a single processing circuit 45, but a processing circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize a function.

[0028] The control function 451 controls the processing of the transmission / reception circuit 41, the B-mode processing circuit 42, and the Doppler processing circuit 43 based on various setting requests input by the operator via the input interface 3 and various control programs and various data read from the memory 44. The control function 451 also controls so that ultrasound images and various information are displayed on the display 2. For example, the control function 451 accepts a setting operation for setting a sample gate that specifies the position of a region from which Doppler information is collected. The control function 451 also controls so that information regarding the accuracy of tracking the position of the region is displayed.

[0029] The image generating function 452 generates an ultrasonic image from the data generated by the B-mode processing circuit 42 and the Doppler processing circuit 43. That is, the image generating function 452 generates an ultrasonic image in which the intensity of the reflected wave is represented by brightness from the B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing circuit 42. The image generating function 452 also generates an ultrasonic image representing moving object information (blood flow information and tissue movement information) from the Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing circuit 43. The ultrasonic image based on the Doppler data is velocity image data, variance image data, power image data, or image data that is a combination of these.

[0030] Here, the image generating function 452 generally converts (scan converts) a scan line signal sequence of an ultrasonic scan into a scan line signal sequence of a video format represented by a television or the like, and generates an ultrasonic image for display. Specifically, the image generating function 452 generates an ultrasonic image for display by performing coordinate conversion according to the ultrasonic scanning form of the ultrasonic probe 1. In addition to scan conversion, the image generating function 452 also performs various image processing such as image processing (smoothing processing) for regenerating an average brightness image using multiple image frames after scan conversion, and image processing (edge ​​enhancement processing) using a differential filter within an image. In addition, the image generating function 452 combines text information of various parameters, scales, body marks, etc. with the ultrasonic image.

[0031] Furthermore, the image generating function 452 generates three-dimensional B-mode image data by performing coordinate conversion on the three-dimensional B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing circuit 42. Moreover, the image generating function 155b generates three-dimensional Doppler image data by performing coordinate conversion on the three-dimensional Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing circuit 43. Furthermore, the image generating function 155b can perform rendering processing on the volume data in order to generate various two-dimensional images for displaying these three-dimensional image data (volume data) on the display 2.

[0032] Furthermore, the image generating function 452 can generate M-mode image data from the time series data of the B-mode data on one scanning line generated by the B-mode processing circuit 42. Also, the image generating unit 14 can generate a Doppler waveform in which blood flow velocity information is plotted in time series from the Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing circuit 43.

[0033] The movement control function 453 sets a sample gate on a two-dimensional ultrasound image based on the sample gate setting operation received by the control function 451. The movement control function 453 also moves the position of the sample gate based on the processing result by the processing circuitry 45. Details of the processing by the movement control function 453 will be described later.

[0034] The tracking function 454 tracks the position of the part where the sample gate is set. Specifically, the tracking function 454 tracks the position of the part where the sample gate is set by template matching using the two-dimensional ultrasonic image at the time of collecting Doppler information. Details of the processing by the tracking function 454 will be described later.

[0035] The measurement function 455 executes a measurement process on the Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information. The process by the measurement function 455 will be described in detail later.

[0036] The configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment has been described above. With such a configuration, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 improves diagnostic efficiency. Specifically, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 improves diagnostic efficiency of diagnosis based on a Doppler waveform by displaying information on the tracking accuracy when tracking the position of a region where a sample gate is set.

[0037] For example, a method is known in which the position of a sample gate that has shifted due to the influence of body movement or the like is corrected by tracking the region where the sample gate is set and moving the position of the sample gate. However, with this method, if the tracking is incorrect or the accuracy is insufficient, the accuracy of diagnosis may decrease, resulting in a decrease in diagnostic efficiency. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to this embodiment displays information regarding the accuracy of tracking to prevent the accuracy of diagnosis from decreasing and improve diagnostic efficiency.

[0038] The process steps performed by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described below with reference to Fig. 2, and then each process will be described in detail. Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing the process steps performed by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0039] 2, in this embodiment, the control function 451 starts collecting ultrasound images (step S101). Specifically, the control function 451 starts collecting ultrasound images in the PW mode in response to an operation via the input interface 3.

[0040] Next, the control function 451 accepts the setting of a sample gate for the collected ultrasound image (step S102). Specifically, the control function 451 accepts the setting of a sample gate indicating a position for acquiring a Doppler waveform in response to an operation via the input interface 3. When the control function 451 accepts the setting of the sample gate, the movement control function 453 sets the sample gate at the accepted position. The processes of steps S101 and S102 are realized, for example, by the processing circuitry 45 calling a program corresponding to the control function 451 from the memory 44 and executing it.

[0041] Next, the tracking function 454 performs template matching on the ultrasound image collected in real time, targeting the part where the sample gate is set (step S103), and tracks the part where the sample gate is set. This process is realized, for example, by the processing circuitry 45 calling up a program corresponding to the tracking function 454 from the memory 44 and executing it.

[0042] Next, the control function 451 causes the display 2 to display information related to the accuracy of the template matching (step S104). This process is realized, for example, by the processing circuitry 45 calling up a program corresponding to the control function 451 from the memory 44 and executing the program.

[0043] Next, the movement control function 453 judges whether the accuracy of the tracking performed by the tracking function 454 is high (step S105). If it is judged that the accuracy of the tracking is high (step S105, Yes), the movement control function 453 moves the position of the sample gate to the position specified by the tracking (step S106). On the other hand, if it is judged that the accuracy of the tracking is not high in step S105 (step S105, No), the movement control function 453 does not move the sample gate, and the process returns to step S102, where the control function 451 accepts the setting of the sample gate by the operator. The processes of the above steps S105 and S106 are realized, for example, by the processing circuit 45 calling a program corresponding to the movement control function 453 from the memory 44 and executing it.

[0044] Next, the measurement function 455 determines whether or not a Doppler waveform has been acquired (step S107). Specifically, the measurement function 455 determines whether or not a Doppler waveform necessary for performing measurement processing has been acquired. Here, if it is determined that a Doppler waveform has been acquired (step S107, Yes), the measurement function 455 executes measurement processing on the acquired Doppler waveform (step S108) and ends the processing. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S107 that a Doppler waveform has not been acquired (step S107, No), the process returns to step S103, and template matching by the tracking function 454 continues.

[0045] 2, a case has been described in which after displaying information on the accuracy of template matching in step S104, a process of automatically moving the sample gate in accordance with the accuracy of template matching (steps S105 and S106) and an automatic measurement process for the acquired Doppler waveform (steps S107 and S108) are executed. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the process of automatically moving the sample gate and the automatic measurement process for the Doppler waveform may not be executed.

[0046] Each process executed by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described in detail below.

[0047] (Ultrasound image collection) As described in step S101, the control function 451 starts collecting ultrasonic images in the PW mode. Here, the control function 451 controls to execute ultrasonic transmission and reception for collecting Doppler waveforms in the PW mode as well as ultrasonic transmission and reception for capturing B-mode image data and color Doppler image data. That is, the control function 451 controls the transmission and reception circuit 41 to collect two-dimensional ultrasonic images as well as collect Doppler waveforms.

[0048] (Sample gate settings) As described in step S101, the control function 451 accepts the setting of the position of the sample gate in response to an operation via the input interface 3. Then, the movement control function 453 sets the sample gate at the position accepted by the control function 451. For example, the operator operates the input interface 3 to set a sample gate on the B-mode image data collected by the control function 451. The control function 451 notifies the movement control function 453 of the position information (coordinates in the B-mode image data) of the sample gate accepted on the B-mode image data. The movement control function 453 sets the position information (coordinates in the B-mode image data) notified from the control function 451 as the position of the sample gate.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of setting a sample gate according to the first embodiment. Here, the diagram shown in region R1 of FIG. 3 is a Doppler waveform displayed on the display 2. Moreover, the diagram shown in region R2 of FIG. 3 is B-mode image data of an acquisition cross section displayed on the display 2. Specifically, the diagram shown in region R2 of FIG. 3 is B-mode image data of an acquisition cross section in which a blood vessel to be observed is depicted in a longitudinal cross section. The operator places a sample gate SG1 (parallel double lines shown in the right diagram of FIG. 4) in the longitudinal cross section of the blood vessel in the B-mode image data.

[0050] The position information of the sample gate is position information that defines the collection range for sampling Doppler information. The control function 451 acquires coordinates on the B-mode image data (coordinates in the ultrasound scanning space) that correspond to the position information of the sample gate set by the operator, and notifies the movement control function 453. The movement control function 453 sets the coordinates notified from the control function 451 as the position of the sample gate.

[0051] When the sample gate position is set, the control function 451 executes a scan in PW mode under scan conditions for scanning the set sample gate position. Then, the control function 451 calculates blood flow velocity information in the running direction of the blood vessel based on the Doppler information collected by the scan in PW mode, generates a Doppler waveform indicating the calculated blood flow velocity information, and displays it on the display 2 as shown in region R1 in FIG.

[0052] (Template Matching) As described in step S103, the tracking function 454 tracks the area where the sample gate is set by performing template matching on the ultrasound images collected in real time, targeting the area where the sample gate is set.

[0053] Specifically, the tracking function 454 first extracts an area in the B-mode image data near where the sample gate is set as a template image, and stores the extracted template image in the memory 44. Here, the area to be extracted as the template image can be set arbitrarily. For example, the tracking function 454 extracts a rectangular area including the set sample gate and formed by a predetermined number of pixels as the template image.

[0054] Then, the tracking function 454 performs template matching using the template image with the newly acquired B-mode image data as a target image, thereby extracting an area in the newly acquired B-mode image data that has the highest degree of match with the template image. Here, the tracking function 454 can calculate the degree of match by a known calculation method (for example, squared difference, cross-correlation, etc.).

[0055] As described above, when the degree of match is calculated, the tracking function 454 associates the degree of match with the B-mode image data for which the degree of match is calculated, and stores the degree of match in the memory 44. That is, the tracking function 454 stores the degree of match of template matching in association with the target image of template matching. This makes it possible to present the degree of match of template matching even when interpreting an image that has already been collected.

[0056] The template image may be updated with an image of the region that has the highest degree of matching with the template image. In such a case, for example, when the degree of matching is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the tracking function 454 updates the template image with the image of the region that has the highest degree of matching.

[0057] (Display process of information regarding accuracy) As described in step S104, the control function 451 causes the display 2 to display information related to the accuracy of tracking performed by the tracking function 454. For example, the control function 451 causes at least one of a numerical value indicating the tracking accuracy, a sample gate whose color changes according to the tracking accuracy, and a Doppler waveform based on Doppler information whose color changes according to the tracking accuracy.

[0058] As one example, the control function 451 identifiably displays the position of the part (area) with the highest degree of match in template matching, and displays a numerical value indicating the degree of match on the display 2. For example, the control function 451 displays a new sample gate of a different color at the position of the part (area) with the highest degree of match in template matching, and displays a numerical value indicating the degree of match near the new sample gate. This allows the operator to decide whether or not to move the sample gate to the position of the newly displayed sample gate, while referring to the numerical value indicating the degree of match.

[0059] Also, for example, the control function 451 changes the color of the sample gate and the Doppler waveform depending on the degree of match of the part (region) with the highest degree of match of the template matching. As an example, the control function 451 compares the degree of match calculated by the tracking function 454 with a threshold value, and when the degree of match is equal to or greater than the threshold value, displays the sample gate and the Doppler waveform in a color indicating high accuracy of the template matching. On the other hand, when the degree of match is less than the threshold value, the control function 451 displays the sample gate and the Doppler waveform in a color indicating low accuracy of the template matching. Note that the threshold value to be compared with the degree of match can be set arbitrarily. This allows the operator to check the accuracy of tracking at the current time and to decide whether or not to move the sample gate.

[0060] (Sample gate movement processing) As described in steps S105 and S106, the movement control function 453 automatically moves the position of the sample gate according to the tracking accuracy. Specifically, the movement control function 453 compares the degree of match at the site with the highest degree of match of template matching with a threshold value, and when the degree of match is equal to or greater than the threshold value, moves the sample gate to the site with the highest degree of match of template matching. That is, the movement control function 453 automatically moves the sample gate to the coordinates of the ultrasound scanning space corresponding to the coordinates of the site with the highest degree of match of template matching in the newly collected B-mode image data.

[0061] In addition, when the degree of coincidence is equal to or higher than the threshold value, the movement control function 453 can also move the sample gate in response to an approval operation by the operator. In such a case, the control function 451 causes a numerical value indicating the degree of coincidence with the new sample gate to be displayed at the position of the part (area) where the degree of template matching is the highest, and also displays a GUI for approving the movement of the sample gate to that position. When the operator performs an approval operation via the GUI, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the coordinates of the ultrasonic scanning space corresponding to the coordinates of the part where the degree of template matching is the highest.

[0062] On the other hand, when the degree of coincidence at the part where the degree of template matching is the highest is less than the threshold value, the movement control function 453 does not automatically move the sample gate, but moves the sample gate to a position corresponding to a movement operation of the sample gate by the operator. In such a case, for example, the control function 451 displays a numerical value indicating the degree of template matching and also displays display information prompting the manual movement of the sample gate because the tracking accuracy is low. In response to this display, when the operator re-sets the sample gate in the same manner as the initial setting of the sample gate, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the re-set position.

[0063] Hereinafter, an example of determination related to the movement process of the sample gate will be described. For example, "a", "b", and "c" are set as threshold values for comparison with the degree of coincidence (where a > b > c). The movement control function 453 compares the degree of coincidence calculated by the tracking function 454 with "a", "b", and "c" and makes a determination related to the movement process of the sample gate.

[0064] For example, when "degree of coincidence < c", the movement control function 453 determines that the movement process of the sample gate is not performed, and displays display information prompting the manual movement of the sample gate because the tracking accuracy is low.

[0065] Also, for example, when "c < degree of coincidence < b", the movement control function 453 determines to automatically move the sample gate. At this time, the control function 451 notifies that the tracking accuracy is low based on the color of the sample gate or the Doppler waveform.

[0066] Also, for example, when "a < degree of coincidence", the movement control function 453 determines to automatically move the sample gate. At this time, the control function 451 notifies that the tracking accuracy is high based on the color of the sample gate or the Doppler waveform.

[0067] As described above, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the tracked position when the tracking accuracy is high. However, since it is desirable that the Doppler waveform is acquired continuously for one or more heartbeats, the movement control function 453 can also control not to move the sample gate easily.

[0068] For example, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the position of the part with the highest degree of template matching on the condition that the difference between the part with the highest degree of template matching and the part where the sample gate is currently set exceeds a threshold value. That is, the movement control function 453 does not move the sample gate when the difference between the part with the highest degree of template matching and the part where the sample gate is currently set is equal to or less than the threshold value. Note that the difference between the part with the highest degree of template matching and the part where the sample gate is currently set is, for example, the distance between the parts.

[0069] Here, the threshold value to be compared with the above difference is dynamically changed according to at least one of the size of the sample gate, the ultrasonic beam width, and the frame rate. For example, the smaller the size of the sample gate, the narrower the ultrasonic beam width, and the higher the frame rate, the smaller the threshold value is set. On the other hand, the larger the size of the sample gate, the wider the ultrasonic beam width, and the lower the frame rate, the larger the threshold value is set.

[0070] Also, for example, the movement control function 453 moves the position of the sample gate on condition that a predetermined time has elapsed after the sample gate has been moved. In other words, after moving the sample gate once, the movement control function 453 does not move the sample gate again until the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0071] Here, the above-mentioned predetermined time is dynamically changed according to at least one of the part, the frame rate, the cardiac cycle, and the respiratory cycle. For example, when the target is a part that is easily affected by breathing or body movement such as the abdomen, a short time is set as the predetermined time, and when the target is a part with little movement such as the lower limbs, a long time is set as the predetermined time. Also, for example, the higher the frame rate, the shorter the cardiac cycle, and the shorter the respiratory cycle, the shorter the predetermined time is set, and the lower the frame rate, the longer the cardiac cycle, and the longer the respiratory cycle, the longer the predetermined time is set.

[0072] (Display process related to sample gate movement process) As described above, the movement control function 453 does not move the sample gate when the distance between the part with the highest degree of match in template matching and the part where the sample gate is currently set is equal to or less than a threshold value. In other words, the movement control function 453 does not automatically move the sample gate within a predetermined range from the position where the sample gate is currently set.

[0073] In this case, the control function 451 can display the range in which the sample gate is not moved on the ultrasound image. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a display example according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the control function 451 can display the range R3 in which the sample gate is not moved superimposed on the B-mode image data currently collected. Here, the control function 451 can display the range R3 in which automatic tracking is not performed superimposed on the B-mode image data, for example, in a fan shape in the case of a convex probe or a sector probe, or in a rectangle or trapezoid in the case of a linear probe.

[0074] Furthermore, the control function 451 can change the display form of the Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information in the time interval related to the movement of the sample gate. Specifically, when the position of the sample gate is moved by the movement control function 453, the control function 451 changes the scan conditions, but the Doppler waveform cannot be acquired during the change of the scan conditions. Therefore, the control function 451 changes, for example, the color of the Doppler waveform displayed on the display 2 in the time interval in which the Doppler waveform cannot be acquired. This allows the operator to immediately understand that appropriate data has not been acquired.

[0075] (Measurement processing) As described in steps S107 and S108, the measurement function 455 determines whether or not a Doppler waveform has been acquired, and automatically executes measurement processing on the acquired Doppler waveform. For example, the measurement function 455 determines whether or not a Doppler waveform has been acquired continuously for one or more heartbeats, and automatically executes various measurement processing on the Doppler waveform acquired continuously for one or more heartbeats.

[0076] Here, the measurement function 455 can use the accuracy of tracking by the tracking function 454 in determining when performing the above-mentioned measurement process. Specifically, the measurement function 455 performs measurement processes in a section where the tracking accuracy is relatively high and in a section where a Doppler waveform is acquired. That is, the measurement function 455 performs various measurement processes on a Doppler waveform that is continuously acquired for one heartbeat or more and is in a section where the tracking accuracy is relatively high (for example, the degree of coincidence of template matching is equal to or higher than a threshold). This makes it possible to obtain more accurate results in automatic measurement processes that target a Doppler waveform.

[0077] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the control function 451 accepts a setting operation for setting a sample gate that specifies the position of a region from which Doppler information is to be collected. The tracking function 454 tracks the position of the region for which the sample gate is set. The control function 451 performs control so as to display information related to the accuracy of tracking the position of the region. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can present the tracking accuracy to the operator, making it possible to easily determine whether or not appropriate Doppler information has been acquired, and improving diagnostic efficiency.

[0078] For example, in real-time diagnosis and diagnosis by interpretation of images after collection, diagnosis can be made with reference to tracking accuracy, thereby improving diagnostic efficiency.

[0079] According to the first embodiment, the tracking function 454 tracks the position of the region where the sample gate is set by template matching using the two-dimensional ultrasound image at the time of collecting Doppler information. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can present information on the accuracy of tracking by template matching.

[0080] According to the first embodiment, the control function 451 displays at least one of a numerical value indicating the tracking accuracy, a sample gate whose color changes according to the tracking accuracy, and a Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information whose color changes according to the tracking accuracy. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can clearly display the tracking accuracy.

[0081] According to the first embodiment, the control function 451 displays the position of the part with the highest degree of match in the template matching in a identifiable manner in the two-dimensional ultrasound image. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can visually present the position with the highest degree of match.

[0082] According to the first embodiment, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the position of the part in the two-dimensional ultrasound image that has the highest degree of coincidence in template matching. The control function 451 changes the display form of the Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information during the time period related to the movement of the sample gate. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment allows a user to easily grasp a low-precision Doppler waveform.

[0083] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the measurement function 455 executes measurement processing on the Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information. The measurement function 455 executes measurement processing in a section where the tracking accuracy is relatively high and in a section where the Doppler waveform is acquired. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can execute measurement processing with high accuracy.

[0084] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the position of the part with the highest degree of match in template matching in the two-dimensional ultrasound image. The movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the position of the part with the highest degree of match in template matching on the condition that the difference between the part with the highest degree of match in template matching and the part where the sample gate is currently set exceeds a threshold. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can suppress frequent updating of the position of the sample gate and can update the position of the sample gate in real time and at a frequency that does not interfere with diagnosis.

[0085] According to the first embodiment, the threshold is dynamically changed according to at least one of the size of the sample gate, the beam width of the ultrasound, and the frame rate. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can set an appropriate threshold for the difference between the part with the highest degree of match in template matching and the part for which the sample gate is currently set.

[0086] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the control function 451 displays the range in which the sample gate is not to be moved on the ultrasound image. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can visually present the range in which the Doppler waveform can be acquired with high accuracy.

[0087] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the movement control function 453 moves the sample gate to the position of the part in the two-dimensional ultrasound image that has the highest degree of match in template matching. The movement control function 453 moves the position of the sample gate on the condition that a predetermined time has elapsed after the movement of the sample gate. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment can update the sample gate at an appropriate timing.

[0088] According to the first embodiment, the predetermined time is dynamically changed depending on at least one of the body part, the frame rate, the cardiac cycle, and the respiratory cycle. Therefore, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment can set an appropriate timing for updating the sample gate.

[0089] (Other embodiments) In the above embodiment, the case where the sample gate is automatically moved when the accuracy of template matching (tracking) is high has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and for example, the sample gate may be automatically moved regardless of the accuracy of tracking. That is, during ultrasound scanning (real time), the tracking accuracy may be simply stored in association with the corresponding B-mode image data while displaying information on the tracking accuracy.

[0090] In the above embodiment, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 is an apparatus that sets a single sample gate. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 may be an apparatus that sets a plurality of sample gates. In the case of such an ultrasonic diagnostic device, the operation of the sample gates tends to be complicated. Therefore, by applying the embodiment of the present application to such an ultrasonic diagnostic device, it is possible to further improve diagnostic efficiency.

[0091] The above-described embodiment can be applied to a portable ultrasonic diagnostic device. Portable ultrasonic diagnostic devices often do not have a device suitable for operating a sample gate, such as a trackball or a mouse. Therefore, by applying the embodiment of the present application to a portable ultrasonic diagnostic device, it is possible to reduce operations related to the sample gate, and to further improve diagnostic efficiency.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the ultrasonic transmission and reception for collecting the Doppler waveform in PW mode and the ultrasonic transmission and reception for capturing the B-mode image data are described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to first collect only the B-mode image data for setting the sample gate, and then perform the ultrasonic transmission and reception for collecting the Doppler waveform in PW mode and the ultrasonic transmission and reception for capturing the B-mode image data.

[0093] Also, for example, only B-mode image data may be collected to set a sample gate, and then only B-mode image data may be collected again to confirm the position of the sample gate, and information regarding the accuracy of tracking may be displayed.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the template matching is used for tracking the part where the sample gate is set. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the part where the sample gate is set may be tracked by other methods.

[0095] For example, the tracking function 454 tracks the region where the sample gate is set by extracting the region of the region where the sample gate is set every time B-mode image data is acquired. The tracking function 454 extracts the region of the region where the sample gate is set by using a known region extraction technique (e.g., region growing method, snake method, graph cut method, mean shift method, etc.) or machine learning technique.

[0096] Also, for example, the tracking function 454 detects the subject's body movements using a position sensor attached to the subject or a camera image capturing the subject, and tracks the area where the sample gate is set based on the detected body movements.

[0097] The term "processor" used in the above description means, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (for example, a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory. Instead of storing a program in a memory, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program in the circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program incorporated in the circuit. Each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its function.

[0098] Note that the components of each device illustrated in the above description of the embodiments are conceptual and functional, and are not necessarily physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that illustrated, and all or a part of the devices can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, all or any part of the processing functions performed by each device can be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0099] The method described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a prepared program on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. This program can also be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium readable by a computer, such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, an MO, a DVD, a USB memory, or a flash memory such as an SD card memory, and can be executed by being read from the non-transitory recording medium by a computer.

[0100] As described above, according to the embodiment, it is possible to improve diagnostic efficiency.

[0101] Although some embodiments 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, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 10. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment 451 Control Functions 452 Image generation function 453 Movement Control Function 454 Tracking Function 455 Measurement Function

Claims

1. a reception unit that receives a setting operation for setting a sample gate that specifies the position of a region where Doppler information is to be collected; a tracking unit that tracks the position of the site where the sample gate is set; a display control unit that controls to display information regarding accuracy of tracking the position of the part; An ultrasound diagnostic device comprising:

2. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the tracking unit tracks the position of the region where the sample gate is set by template matching using a two-dimensional ultrasound image at the time of collecting the Doppler information.

3. 2. The ultrasound diagnostic device of claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays at least one of a numerical value indicating the tracking accuracy, a sample gate whose color changes according to the tracking accuracy, and a Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information whose color changes according to the tracking accuracy.

4. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the display control unit displays, in the two-dimensional ultrasound image, a position of a part having the highest degree of match in the template matching in an identifiable manner.

5. a movement control unit that moves the sample gate to a position of a part in the two-dimensional ultrasound image that has the highest degree of match in the template matching, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the display control unit changes a display form of a Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information in a time section related to the movement of the sample gate.

6. a measurement unit that performs measurement processing on a Doppler waveform based on the Doppler information, The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the measurement unit executes the measurement process in a section where the tracking accuracy is relatively high and in a section where the Doppler waveform is acquired.

7. a movement control unit that moves the sample gate to a position of a part in the two-dimensional ultrasound image that has the highest degree of match in the template matching, 3. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the movement control unit moves the sample gate to a position of the part with the highest degree of match in the template matching, on condition that a difference between the part with the highest degree of match in the template matching and the part to which the sample gate is currently set exceeds a threshold value.

8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the threshold is dynamically changed depending on at least one of a size of the sample gate, a beam width of ultrasonic waves, and a frame rate.

9. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the display control unit displays a range in which the sample gate is not to be moved on an ultrasonic image.

10. a movement control unit that moves the sample gate to a position of a part in the two-dimensional ultrasound image that has the highest degree of match in the template matching, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the movement control unit moves the position of the sample gate on condition that a predetermined time has elapsed after the movement of the sample gate.

11. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the predetermined time is dynamically changed depending on at least one of a part of the body, a frame rate, a cardiac cycle, and a respiratory cycle.

12. Accepting a setting operation for setting a sample gate that specifies the position of the area where Doppler information is to be collected; Tracking the location of the site where the sample gate is set; and controlling to display information regarding the accuracy of tracking the position of the region. The method includes:

13. Accepting a setting operation for setting a sample gate that specifies the position of the area where Doppler information is to be collected; Tracking the location of the site where the sample gate is set; and controlling to display information regarding the accuracy of tracking the position of the region. A program that causes a computer to execute each process.

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