Compression plate, mammography device, and image capturing system

Abstract

To suppress scanning omissions of an ultrasonic probe when performing ultrasonic examination through a compression plate.SOLUTION: A compression plate 20 comprises a box-shaped body part 21 whose upper side is open and a guide member 22 which guides an ultrasonic probe 50 along a scanning direction D1 of the ultrasonic probe 50. The guide member 22 includes a first guide part 221 that guides the ultrasonic probe 50 along a first scanning path 231, and a second guide part 222 that guides the ultrasonic probe 50 along a second scanning path 232. The first guide part 221 and the second guide part 222 are arranged such that a portion of an effective image region of the ultrasonic probe 50 overlaps when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231 and the second scanning path 232.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a compression plate, a mammography apparatus, and an imaging system.

Background Art

[0002] A mammography apparatus is known that irradiates radiation from a radiation source toward a subject's breast and detects the radiation transmitted through the breast with a radiation detector to capture a radiation image.

[0003] Also, an ultrasonic imaging apparatus is known that captures an ultrasonic image of a breast by scanning an ultrasonic probe along the breast of a subject.

[0004] When detecting the presence or absence of a tumor by comparing the above-mentioned radiation image and ultrasonic image of the breast, since the shape of the breast changes depending on the presence or absence of compression, it is difficult to compare the positions of the tumors between mammography and ultrasound. For this reason, there is a method of mounting an ultrasonic probe on a compression plate and performing an ultrasonic examination in a compressed state.

[0005] When scanning an ultrasonic probe through a compression plate, a user such as a doctor or a technician scans the ultrasonic probe while looking at the ultrasonic image displayed on the screen without seeing much of the hand holding the ultrasonic probe. For this reason, it may become unclear where on the compression plate and at what angle the scanning is being performed. On the other hand, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3 describe guide members for scanning an ultrasonic probe on a compression plate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] All of the guide members described in the above Patent Documents 1 to 3 are for linearly guiding an ultrasonic probe, and it is not possible to scan the ultrasonic probe so that a part of the ultrasonic image overlaps. For this reason, scanning omission of the ultrasonic probe may occur.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a compression plate, a mammography apparatus, and an image capturing system that can suppress scanning omission of an ultrasonic probe when performing an ultrasonic examination through the compression plate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] The compression plate according to the first aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above object is a compression plate used in a mammography apparatus, and includes a box-shaped main body portion with an open upper side, and a guide member provided on the main body portion, the guide member guiding the ultrasonic probe along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe. The guide member includes a first guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a first scanning path and a second guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a second scanning path. The first guiding portion and the second guiding portion are arranged such that a part of the effective image region of the ultrasonic probe overlaps when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path.

[0010] The compression plate according to the second aspect of the present disclosure further includes a locking mechanism for detachably fixing the guide member to the main body portion in the compression plate according to the first aspect.

[0011] The compression plate according to the third aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the first aspect, and a space capable of accommodating the tip portion of the ultrasonic probe is provided between the first guide portion and the lower surface of the main body portion, and between the second guide portion and the lower surface of the main body portion. The first guide portion and the second guide portion are provided at positions where they can contact depressions provided on the side surface of the ultrasonic probe.

[0012] The compression plate according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the first aspect, and the guide member further includes a third guide portion that guides the ultrasonic probe along a third scanning path. When the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the second scanning path and the third scanning path, the second guide portion and the third guide portion are arranged such that a part of the effective image region of the ultrasonic probe overlaps.

[0013] The compression plate according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the fourth aspect, and the guide member further includes a frame portion. The second guide portion extends from one end of the frame portion toward the opposite other end. The third guide portion extends from the other end of the frame portion toward the one end.

[0014] The compression plate according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the fourth aspect, and the guide member further includes a frame portion. The second guide portion extends from one end of the frame portion toward the opposite other end, and the third guide portion extends from the one end of the frame portion toward the other end.

[0015] The compression plate according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the fourth aspect, and the guide member further includes a frame portion. The second guide portion connects one end of the frame portion and the opposite other end, and the third guide portion connects the one end of the frame portion and the other end.

[0016] The compression plate according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the first aspect, and further includes an intermediate member for being interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the subject. The intermediate member is provided on the entire lower surface of the main body portion.

[0017] The compression plate according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression plate according to the first aspect, wherein the guide member further includes a position detection sensor that detects the position of the ultrasonic probe.

[0018] To achieve the above object, a mammography apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure is a mammography apparatus including a compression plate according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

[0019] To achieve the above object, an imaging system according to the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is an imaging system including an ultrasonic imaging apparatus including an ultrasonic probe and a mammography apparatus including a compression plate, wherein the compression plate includes a box-shaped main body portion with an open upper side and a guide member provided on the main body portion, the guide member guiding the ultrasonic probe along a scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe, the guide member including a first guiding portion guiding the ultrasonic probe along a first scanning path and a second guiding portion guiding the ultrasonic probe along a second scanning path, and the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion are arranged such that a part of an effective image region of the ultrasonic probe overlaps when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path.

[0020] The imaging system according to the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is the imaging system according to the eleventh aspect, wherein the ultrasonic probe includes a transmission / reception unit that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves and a gripping portion continuous from the transmission / reception unit, and a width of the gripping portion is shorter than a width of the effective image region of the transmission / reception unit.

[0021] The imaging system according to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is the imaging system according to the twelfth aspect, wherein a depression is provided on a side surface of the gripping portion of the ultrasonic probe, and the depression contacts the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path.

[0022] In the image capturing system according to the 14th aspect of the present disclosure, in the image capturing system according to the 13th aspect, the radius of the depression is larger than the radius of the cross-sectional shape of each of the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion.

[0023] The image capturing system according to the 15th aspect of the present disclosure, in the image capturing system according to the 11th aspect, the guide member further includes a third guiding portion that guides the ultrasonic probe along a third scanning path, and when the width of the second guiding portion is W1, the distance between the second guiding portion and the third guiding portion is W2, the width of the third guiding portion is W3, and the width of the effective image region of the ultrasonic probe is W4, the relationship of W4 > W1 / 2 + W2 + W3 / 2 is satisfied.

[0024] The image capturing system according to the 16th aspect of the present disclosure, in the image capturing system according to the 12th aspect, further includes an intermediate member to be interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the subject, and the intermediate member is provided at the transmission / reception portion of the ultrasonic probe.

Advantages of the Invention

[0025] According to the present disclosure, when performing an ultrasonic examination through a compression plate, it is possible to suppress scanning leakage of the ultrasonic probe.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that each embodiment does not limit the present invention.

[0028] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an imaging system 100 according to the first embodiment. The imaging system 100 according to the present embodiment includes a mammography apparatus 10 and an ultrasonic imaging apparatus 60. In FIG. 1, the depth direction is the X-axis direction, the left-right direction is the Y-axis direction, and the up-down direction is the Z-axis direction.

[0029] The mammography apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment is an apparatus that irradiates radiation R (for example, X-rays) to the breast of a subject with the breast as the subject and captures a radiation image of the breast. Note that the mammography apparatus 10 may be an apparatus that captures an image of the breast of the subject not only in a state where the subject is standing (standing state) but also in a state where the subject is sitting on a chair (including a wheelchair) or the like (sitting state).

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the mammography apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment includes a compression plate 20, a radiation detector 30, a radiation irradiation unit 36, a photography table 40, an arm unit 42, a base 44, a shaft unit 45, and a compression unit 46.

[0031] The radiation detector 30 detects the radiation R that has passed through the breast of the subject. The radiation detector 30 is disposed inside the photography table 40. In the mammography apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, when performing imaging, on the imaging surface 40A of the photography table 40, the breast of the subject is positioned by a user such as a doctor and a technician. The imaging surface 40A or the like in contact with the breast of the subject is formed of, for example, carbon or the like from the viewpoint of the permeability and intensity of the radiation R.

[0032] The radiation detector 30 detects the radiation R that has passed through the breast of the subject and the photography table 40, generates a radiation image based on the detected radiation R, and outputs image data representing the generated radiation image. The type of the radiation detector 30 is not particularly limited. For example, it may be an indirect conversion type radiation detector that converts the radiation R into light and then converts the converted light into electric charge, or a direct conversion type radiation detector that directly converts the radiation R into electric charge.

[0033] The radiation irradiation unit 36 includes a radiation source 36R. The radiation irradiation unit 36 is provided on the arm unit 42 together with the photography table 40 and the compression unit 46. The mammography apparatus 10 includes the arm unit 42, the base 44, and the shaft unit 45. The arm unit 42 is held by the base 44 so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The shaft unit 45 connects the arm unit 42 to the base 44. Further, the compression unit 46 and the arm unit 42 are relatively rotatable with respect to the base 44 separately about the shaft unit 45 as a rotation axis. In the present embodiment, gears (not shown) are respectively provided on the shaft unit 45, the arm unit 42, and the compression unit 46, and by switching the meshing state and the non-meshing state of these gears, each of the arm unit 42 and the compression unit 46 is connected to the shaft unit 45. One or both of the arm unit 42 and the compression unit 46 connected to the shaft unit 45 rotate integrally with the shaft unit 45.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the compression unit 46. Note that FIG. 2 shows a side view of the compression unit 46 when viewed from the X-axis direction in FIG. 1.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the compression plate driving unit 32, the compression force detection sensor 33, and the compression plate 20 are provided in the compression unit 46. Inside the compression unit 46, a compression plate driving unit 32 including a motor 31 and a ball screw 38, and a compression force detection sensor 33 are provided. The compression force detection sensor 33 has a function of detecting the compression force by detecting the reaction force of the compression force for compressing the entire breast by the compression plate 20.

[0036] The compression plate 20 according to the present embodiment is a compression member, and moves in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) by the compression plate driving unit 32, and compresses the breast of the subject between the compression plate 20 and the imaging table 40. As shown in FIG. 1, with respect to the moving direction of the compression plate 20, and the direction of compressing the breast, in other words, the direction approaching the imaging surface 40A is referred to as the "compression direction", and the direction of releasing the compression on the breast, in other words, the direction approaching the radiation irradiation unit 36 is referred to as the "compression release direction".

[0037] The compression plate 20 is preferably optically transparent in order to perform alignment and confirmation of the compression state during breast compression, and is formed of a material having excellent radiation R transmittance. Further, it is desirable that the compression plate 20 is formed of a material that easily transmits ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 50 of the ultrasonic imaging device 60. As the material of the compression plate 20, for example, resins such as polymethylpentene, polycarbonate, acrylic, and polyethylene terephthalate can be used. In particular, polymethylpentene is suitable as the material of the compression plate 20 because it has low rigidity, excellent stretchability and flexibility, and has suitable values in the acoustic impedance that affects the reflectivity of ultrasonic waves and the attenuation coefficient that affects the attenuation of ultrasonic waves.

[0038] Note that the compression plate 20 is not limited to compressing the entire breast, and may compress a part of the breast. In other words, a compression plate 20 smaller than the breast may be used. As such a compression plate 20, for example, a compression plate 20 used for so-called spot imaging, which captures a radiation image of only the region where a lesion exists, is known.

[0039] On the other hand, the ultrasonic imaging device 60 has an ultrasonic probe 50 and is a device that captures an ultrasonic image of a subject's breast by a user.

[0040] The ultrasonic probe 50 is moved by a user on the compression plate 20 and obtains an ultrasonic image of the breast by scanning the breast with ultrasonic waves.

[0041] The ultrasonic probe 50 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged in a one-dimensional or two-dimensional manner. Each ultrasonic transducer transmits ultrasonic waves based on an applied drive signal and outputs a received signal by receiving an ultrasonic echo.

[0042] Each of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers is composed of, for example, a vibrator in which electrodes are formed at both ends of a piezoelectric material (piezoelectric body) having piezoelectricity such as a piezoelectric ceramic represented by PZT (lead zirconate titanate: Pb(lead) zirconate titanate) or a polymer piezoelectric element represented by PVDF (polyvinylidene difluoride). When a pulsed or continuous-wave drive signal is sent to the electrodes of the vibrator to apply a voltage, the piezoelectric body expands and contracts. Due to this expansion and contraction, pulsed or continuous-wave ultrasonic waves are generated from each vibrator, and an ultrasonic beam is formed by the synthesis of these ultrasonic waves. Further, each vibrator expands and contracts by receiving the propagating ultrasonic waves and generates an electrical signal. These electrical signals are output as received signals of ultrasonic waves and are input to the main body of the ultrasonic imaging device 60 via a cable indicated by a dotted line.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the compression plate 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3, the compression plate 20 according to the present embodiment includes a main body portion 21, a guide member 22, and a lock mechanism 23. The main body portion 21 is a box-shaped member with an open top and has a chest wall surface 211. The chest wall surface 211 is a surface facing the chest wall of the subject. The guide member 22 is provided on the main body portion 21 and guides the ultrasonic probe 50 along the scanning direction D1 of the ultrasonic probe 50.

[0045] The lock mechanism 23 detachably fixes the guide member 22 to the main body portion 21. As an example, the lock mechanism 23 is provided on the guide member 22, but it may also be provided on the main body portion 21. During mammography, mammography can be performed with the guide member 22 removed from the main body portion 21, and during ultrasonic imaging, ultrasonic imaging can be performed with the guide member 22 attached to the main body portion 21. Further, by providing the lock mechanism 23, it is possible to prevent the guide member 22 from falling off the main body portion 21 even when the compression plate 20 is tilted.

[0046] The guide member 22 includes a first guide portion 221, a second guide portion 222, a third guide portion 223, a fourth guide portion 224, a frame portion 225, and a position detection sensor 226. The first guide portion 221, the second guide portion 222, the third guide portion 223, and the fourth guide portion 224 are provided, as an example, in a direction along the chest wall surface 211 of the main body portion 21, but may be provided in a direction intersecting the chest wall surface 211 of the main body portion 21. The cross-sectional shape of each of the first guide portion 221, the second guide portion 222, the third guide portion 223, and the fourth guide portion 224 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, or the like.

[0047] The frame portion 225 is a frame-shaped portion provided along the periphery of the main body portion 21. The first guide portion 221 is a portion protruding in the direction of the second guide portion 222 from the frame portion 225. The second guide portion 222 is a portion extending from one end of the frame portion 225 toward the opposite other end. The third guide portion 223 is a portion extending from the other end of the frame portion 225 toward the opposite one end. The fourth guide portion 224 is a portion protruding in the direction of the third guide portion 223 from the frame portion 225.

[0048] The first guide portion 221 and the second guide portion 222 guide the ultrasonic probe 50 along the first scanning path 231. The second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 guide the ultrasonic probe 50 along the second scanning path 232. The third guide portion 223 and the fourth guide portion 224 guide the ultrasonic probe 50 along the third scanning path 233.

[0049] When the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231 and the second scanning path 232, the first guide portion 221 and the second guide portion 222 are arranged so that a part of the effective image area (described later) of the ultrasonic probe 50 overlaps. Similarly, when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the second scanning path 232 and the third scanning path 233, the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 are arranged so that a part of the effective image area of the ultrasonic probe 50 overlaps. Since a part of the effective image area of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be overlapped, the scanning omission of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be suppressed.

[0050] The position detection sensor 226 is provided on each of the first guide part 221, the second guide part 222, the third guide part 223, and the fourth guide part 224. The position detection sensor 226 is a sensor for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe 50. Various sensors such as an optical sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a magnetic sensor are used for the position detection sensor 226. The position detection sensor 226 detects whether the ultrasonic probe 50 is on any of the first scanning path 231, the second scanning path 232, or the third scanning path 233. The detection result by the position detection sensor 226 is displayed, for example, on a display unit (not shown) of the ultrasonic imaging device 60. The user can grasp the position of the ultrasonic probe 50 while looking at the ultrasonic image without looking at the hand holding the ultrasonic probe 50. However, the number and mounting location of the position detection sensors 226 are not limited to the example in FIG. 3, and any location where the position of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be appropriately detected is acceptable.

[0051] In the example of FIG. 3, the tip portion of the ultrasonic probe 50 is held by the holding member 70, and the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned while the tip portion is held by the holding member 70. The holding member 70 is a member that holds the tip portion so as to surround the periphery of the tip portion of the ultrasonic probe 50. By providing the holding member 70, the posture of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be stabilized.

[0052] Also, in the example of FIG. 3, the first guide part 221 and the fourth guide part 224 are provided on the guide member 22 side, but the first guide part 221 and the fourth guide part 224 may be provided on the main body part 21 side. In this case, the second guide part 222 is read as the first guide part 222, and the third guide part 223 is read as the second guide part 223.

[0053] Also, in the example of FIG. 3, four guide parts, namely the first guide part 221, the second guide part 222, the third guide part 223, and the fourth guide part 224, are provided, but the number of guide parts is not limited to four. Two or more guide parts are sufficient, and there may be five or more depending on the shape of the ultrasonic probe 50, the size of the compression plate 20, etc.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a top view schematically showing an example of the guide member 22 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 4, only the guide member 22 with the main body 21 separated is shown for simplicity of illustration.

[0055] As described above, the guide member 22 shown in FIG. 4 includes a first guide portion 221, a second guide portion 222, a third guide portion 223, a fourth guide portion 224, and a frame portion 225. The second guide portion 222 extends from one end of the frame portion 225 to the opposite end, and the third guide portion 223 extends from the other end of the frame portion 225 to the opposite end. The second guide portion 222 is connected to one end of the frame portion 225 and not connected to the opposite end of the frame portion 225. On the other hand, the third guide portion 223 is connected to the other end of the frame portion 225 and not connected to the opposite end of the frame portion 225. That is, the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 are arranged alternately. By arranging the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 alternately, the scanning of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be performed in a zigzag manner. Here, the "zigzag" refers to a state in which a straight line is bent in a Z shape.

[0056] FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the main body 21 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 5, only the main body 21 with the guide member 22 separated is shown for simplicity of illustration.

[0057] The main body 21 shown in FIG. 5 includes a chest wall surface 211, two side surfaces 212, a back surface 213, and a lower surface 214. The chest wall surface 211, the two side surfaces 212, and the back surface 213 are arranged so as to surround the lower surface 214. The compression plate 20 includes an intermediate member 24 for being interposed between the ultrasonic probe 50 and the subject. The intermediate member 24 is provided, for example, on the entire lower surface 214 of the main body 21.

[0058] For the intermediate member 24, for example, a gel sheet or the like in which a gel-like (or jelly-like) acoustic matching material is stored is used. The acoustic matching material referred to here fills the space between the lower surface 214 and the ultrasonic probe 50, fills the space between the subject and the lower surface 214, and is a member that acoustically couples the subject. The acoustic matching material is preferably a material having an acoustic impedance close to that of the subject, the lower surface 214, and the ultrasonic probe 50. By providing the intermediate member 24, the adhesion between the breast of the subject and the compression plate 20 can be improved. On the other hand, by providing the intermediate member 24, the adhesion between the compression plate 20 and the ultrasonic probe 50 can be improved.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship among the ultrasonic probe 50, the second guide part 222, and the third guide part 223 according to the present embodiment.

[0060] The ultrasonic probe 50 shown in FIG. 6 includes a transmission / reception unit 51 and a grip part 52. The transmission / reception unit 51 is a part that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The grip part 52 is continuous from the transmission / reception unit 51 and is a part that the user grips. The width W5 of the grip part 52 is shorter than the width W4 of the effective image area 53 of the transmission / reception unit 51.

[0061] Here, when the width of the second guide part 222 is W1, the distance between the second guide part 222 and the third guide part 223 is W2, the width of the third guide part 223 is W3, and the width of the effective image area 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is W4, the relationship represented by the following formula (1) is satisfied.

[0062] W4>W1 / 2+W2+W3 / 2 (1)

[0063] By arranging the second guide part 222 and the third guide part 223 so as to satisfy the above formula (1), when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231 and the second scanning path 232, a part of the effective image area 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be overlapped.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing an example of ultrasonic images P1 and P2 according to the present embodiment.

[0065] As described above, by overlapping a part of the effective image area 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50, as shown in FIG. 7, two ultrasonic images P1 and P2 with a part overlapping are obtained. The ultrasonic image P1 is an image obtained when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231. On the other hand, the ultrasonic image P2 is an image obtained when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the second scanning path 232.

[0066] In this way, since a part of the two ultrasonic images P1 and P2 overlaps, the scanning omission of the ultrasonic probe 50 is suppressed.

[0067] FIG. 8 is a front view schematically showing an example of the ultrasonic probe 50 according to the present embodiment.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 8, an intermediate member 54 is provided in the transmission / reception unit 51 of the ultrasonic probe 50. For the intermediate member 54, as described above, for example, a gel sheet or the like in which a gel-like (or jelly-like) acoustic matching material is housed is used. When the intermediate member 54 is provided on the ultrasonic probe 50, it is not necessary to provide the intermediate member 24 on the lower surface 214 of the main body 21.

[0069] FIG. 9 is a view showing a state where the intermediate member 54 fixed to the ultrasonic probe 50 is unfolded.

[0070] When the ultrasonic probe 50 has a constricted portion (corresponding to the W5 portion in FIG. 6), it is desirable that the intermediate member 54 be firmly fixed to the tip of the ultrasonic probe 50 and remain immovable even when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned. When the ultrasonic probe 50 has a constricted portion (corresponding to the W5 portion in FIG. 6), as shown in FIG. 9, the shape of the intermediate member 54 is not a simple rectangle, but rather the width of the central portion 54A is the shortest (narrowest), and gradually increases (widens) toward both end portions 54B. In other words, a shape in which the central portion 54A is constricted with respect to both end portions 54B is preferable. The central portion 54A is disposed corresponding to the effective image region 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50. And both end portions 54B are wound around and fixed near the lower portion of the gripping portion 52 of the ultrasonic probe 50 (that is, the constricted portion of the ultrasonic probe 50). By adopting such a shape, the intermediate member 54 can be firmly wound around the ultrasonic probe 50.

[0071] Note that the intermediate member 54 may be provided so as to include the transmission / reception unit 51 and the holding member 70 in a state where the transmission / reception unit 51 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is held by the holding member 70 (see FIG. 3).

[0072] Thus, according to the present embodiment, when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231, the second scanning path 232, and the third scanning path 233, the first guide part 221 to the fourth guide part 224 are arranged such that a part of the effective image region 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50 overlaps. For this reason, scanning omission of the ultrasonic probe 50 is suppressed. Further, according to the present embodiment, the second guide part 222 and the third guide part 223 of the guide member 22 are arranged alternately. For this reason, the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned in a zigzag manner, and ultrasonic inspection can be efficiently performed.

[0073] [Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, a form in which the second guide part and the third guide part are arranged in a comb shape will be described.

[0074] FIG. 10 is a top view schematically showing an example of the guide member 22A according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 10, only the guide member 22A with the main body 21 separated is shown for simplicity of illustration.

[0075] As described above, the guide member 22A shown in FIG. 10 includes a first guide portion 221, a second guide portion 222, a third guide portion 223, a fourth guide portion 224, and a frame portion 225. The second guide portion 222 extends from one end of the frame portion 225 to the opposite end, and the third guide portion 223 extends from one end of the frame portion 225 to the opposite end. Both the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 are connected to one end of the frame portion 225 and are not connected to the opposite end of the frame portion 225. That is, the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 are arranged in a comb shape. By arranging the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 in a comb shape, the scanning of the ultrasonic probe 50 can always be performed in the same direction.

[0076] Thus, according to this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231, the second scanning path 232, and the third scanning path 233, the first guide portion 221 to the fourth guide portion 224 are arranged such that a part of the effective image region 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50 overlaps. For this reason, the scanning leakage of the ultrasonic probe 50 is suppressed. Further, according to this embodiment, the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 of the guide member 22A are arranged in a comb shape. For this reason, the ultrasonic probe 50 is always scanned in the same direction, and ultrasonic inspection can be efficiently performed.

[0077] [Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment, a form in which the second guide portion and the third guide portion are arranged in a ladder shape will be described.

[0078] FIG. 11 is a top view schematically showing an example of the guide member 22B according to the third embodiment. In FIG. 11, only the guide member 22B with the main body 21 separated is shown for simplicity of illustration.

[0079] As described above, the guide member 22B shown in FIG. 11 includes a first guide portion 221, a second guide portion 222, a third guide portion 223, a fourth guide portion 224, and a frame portion 225. The second guide portion 222 connects one end of the frame portion 225 to the other end facing it, and the third guide portion 223 connects one end of the frame portion 225 to the other end facing it. That is, the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 are arranged in a ladder shape. By arranging the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 in a ladder shape, the strength of the guide member 22B can be improved as compared with the case where the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 are arranged in a comb shape.

[0080] Thus, according to the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the ultrasonic probe 50 is scanned along the first scanning path 231, the second scanning path 232, and the third scanning path 233, the first guide portion 221 to the fourth guide portion 224 are arranged such that a part of the effective image region 53 of the ultrasonic probe 50 overlaps. For this reason, scanning omission of the ultrasonic probe 50 is suppressed. Further, according to the present embodiment, the second guide portion 222 and the third guide portion 223 of the guide member 22B are arranged in a ladder shape. For this reason, the strength of the guide member 22B can be improved.

[0081] [Fourth Embodiment] In the fourth embodiment, a form of supporting the ultrasonic probe so that it does not fall will be described.

[0082] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an example of the positional relationship between the ultrasonic probe 50A according to the fourth embodiment and the second guide portion 222. FIG. 13 is a front view showing an example of the positional relationship between the ultrasonic probe 50A according to the fourth embodiment and the second guide portion 222.

[0083] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, a space capable of accommodating the tip portion of the ultrasonic probe 50A is provided between the second guide portion 222 and the lower surface 214 of the main body portion 21. Although illustration here is omitted, a space capable of accommodating the tip portion of the ultrasonic probe 50A is also provided between each of the first guide portion 221, the third guide portion 223, and the fourth guide portion 224 and the lower surface 214 of the main body portion 21.

[0084] In the ultrasonic probe 50A according to this embodiment, a depression 55 is provided on the side surface of the gripping portion 52. The second guide portion 222 is provided at a position where it can contact the depression 55 provided on the side surface of the ultrasonic probe 50A. Although illustration here is omitted, the first guide portion 221, the third guide portion 223, and the fourth guide portion 224 are also provided at positions where they can contact the depression 55 provided on the side surface of the ultrasonic probe 50A. For example, when the ultrasonic probe 50A is scanned along the first scanning path 231 and the second scanning path 232, the depression 55 contacts the first guide portion 221 and the second guide portion 222. By the depression 55 contacting the first guide portion 221 and the second guide portion 222, the ultrasonic probe 50A is supported so as not to fall over.

[0085] Here, the shape of the depression 55 is preferably, for example, circular. Also, the cross-sectional shape of the second guide portion 222 is preferably, for example, circular. In this case, the radius R2 of the depression 55 is preferably larger than the radius R1 of the cross-sectional shape of the second guide portion 222. The same applies to the first guide portion 221, the third guide portion 223, and the fourth guide portion 224.

[0086] When the radius R2 of the depression 55 and the radius R1 of the second guide portion 222 are made substantially the same, the height of the ultrasonic probe 50A is defined at the position of the depression 55. Defining the height of the ultrasonic probe 50 is not desirable because the adhesion with the compression plate 20 is reduced. For this reason, by making the radius R2 of the depression 55 larger than the radius R1 of the cross-sectional shape of the second guide portion 222, it becomes possible to secure the degree of freedom in the height direction of the ultrasonic probe 50A.

[0087] As described above, according to this embodiment, while securing the degree of freedom in the height direction of the ultrasonic probe 50A, the ultrasonic probe 50A is supported, and a decrease in the adhesion with the compression plate 20 is suppressed.

[0088] In addition, the configurations and operations of the compression plate 20, the mammography apparatus 10, and the imaging system 100 described in each of the above embodiments are merely examples, and it goes without saying that they can be changed according to the situation without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0089] Regarding the above embodiments, the following additional remarks are disclosed.

[0090] (Supplementary Note 1) A compression plate for use in a mammography apparatus, a box-shaped main body portion with an open upper side, a guide member provided on the main body portion, the guide member guiding the ultrasonic probe along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe, comprising, the guide member a first guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a first scanning path, a second guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a second scanning path, including, when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path, the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion are arranged such that a part of the effective image region of the ultrasonic probe overlaps, compression plate. (Supplementary Note 2) further comprising a locking mechanism for detachably fixing the guide member to the main body portion, the compression plate according to Supplementary Note 1. (Supplementary Note 3) A space capable of accommodating the tip portion of the ultrasonic probe is provided between the first guiding portion and the lower surface of the main body portion, and between the second guiding portion and the lower surface of the main body portion, the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion are provided at positions where they can contact a recess provided on the side surface of the ultrasonic probe, the compression plate according to Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2. (Supplementary Note 4) the guide member further includes a third guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a third scanning path, When the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the second scanning path and the third scanning path, the second guiding part and the third guiding part are arranged such that a part of the effective image area of the ultrasonic probe overlaps. The compression plate according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3. (Appendix 5) The guide member further includes a frame portion. The second guiding part extends from one end of the frame portion toward the opposite other end. The third guiding part extends from the other end of the frame portion toward the one end. The compression plate according to Appendix 4. (Appendix 6) The guide member further includes a frame portion. The second guiding part extends from one end of the frame portion toward the opposite other end. The third guiding part extends from the one end of the frame portion toward the other end. The compression plate according to Appendix 4. (Appendix 7) The guide member further includes a frame portion. The second guiding part connects one end of the frame portion and the opposite other end. The third guiding part connects the one end and the other end of the frame portion. The compression plate according to Appendix 4. (Appendix 8) It further includes an intermediate member for being interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the subject. The intermediate member is provided on the entire lower surface of the main body portion. The compression plate according to any one of Appendices 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) The guide member further includes a position detection sensor for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe. The compression plate according to any one of Appendices 1 to 8. (Appendix 10) A mammography apparatus including the compression plate according to any one of Appendices 1 to 9. (Appendix 11) An ultrasonic imaging apparatus including an ultrasonic probe, A mammography apparatus including a compression plate, An image capturing system including wherein the compression plate has a box-shaped main body portion with an open upper side, and a guide member provided on the main body portion, the guide member guiding the ultrasonic probe along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe, and comprising wherein the guide member includes a first guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a first scanning path, and a second guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a second scanning path, and the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion are arranged such that when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path, a part of the effective image region of the ultrasonic probe overlaps. Image capturing system. (Appendix 12) wherein the ultrasonic probe includes a transmitting and receiving portion for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, and a gripping portion continuous from the transmitting and receiving portion, and the width of the gripping portion is shorter than the width of the effective image region of the transmitting and receiving portion. The image capturing system according to Appendix 11. (Appendix 13) wherein the ultrasonic probe has a depression provided on a side surface of the gripping portion, and when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path, the depression contacts the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion. The image capturing system according to Appendix 12. (Appendix 14) wherein the radius of the depression is larger than the radius of the cross-sectional shape of each of the first guiding portion and the second guiding portion. The image capturing system according to Appendix 13. (Appendix 15) wherein the guide member further includes a third guiding portion for guiding the ultrasonic probe along a third scanning path, When the width of the interior of the second plan is W1, the distance between the interior of the second plan and the interior of the third plan is W2, the width of the interior of the third plan is W3, and the width of the effective image area of the ultrasonic probe is W4, W4 > W1 / 2 + W2 + W3 / 2 satisfies the relationship of, The imaging system according to any one of Appendices 11 to 14. (Appendix 16) Further comprising an intermediate member to be interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the subject, The intermediate member is provided in the transmission / reception unit of the ultrasonic probe. The imaging system according to any one of Appendices 12 to 14.

Explanation of Signs

[0091] 10 Mammography device 20 Compression plate 21 Main body part 22, 22A, 22B Guide member 23 Lock mechanism 24, 54 Intermediate member 30 Radiation detector 31 Motor 32 Compression plate drive unit 33 Compression force detection sensor 36 Radiation irradiation unit, 36R Radiation source 38 Ball screw 40 Imaging table, 40A Imaging surface 42 Arm part 44 Base 45 Shaft part 46 Compression unit 50, 50A Ultrasonic probe 51 Transmission / reception unit 52 Gripping part 53 Effective image area 55 Depression 60 Ultrasonic imaging device 70 Holding member 100 Imaging system 211 Chest wall surface 212 Side 213 Back Below 214 Internal of Case 1 to Internal of Case 4 (221 - 224) Frame part (225) Position detection sensor (226) First scanning path to Third scanning path (231 - 233) Scanning direction (D1) Ultrasonic images (P1, P2) Radii (R1, R2) Widths (W1, W3, W4) Distance (W2)

Claims

1. A compression plate for use in a mammography device, comprising: A box-shaped main body portion with an open upper portion; a guide member provided in the main body portion, the guide member guiding the ultrasonic probe along a scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe; Equipped with The guide member is a first guide unit that guides the ultrasonic probe along a first scanning path; a second guide unit that guides the ultrasonic probe along a second scanning path; Including, the first guide unit and the second guide unit are arranged such that a part of an effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe overlaps with another part of the effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path. Compression plate.

2. The guide member may be detachably fixed to the main body by a locking mechanism. The compression plate according to claim 1.

3. a space capable of accommodating a tip portion of the ultrasonic probe is provided between the first guide portion and a lower surface of the main body portion and between the second guide portion and a lower surface of the main body portion; The first guide portion and the second guide portion are provided at positions capable of contacting a recess provided on a side surface of the ultrasonic probe. The compression plate according to claim 1.

4. the guide member further includes a third guide portion that guides the ultrasonic probe along a third scanning path; the second guide unit and the third guide unit are arranged such that a part of an effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe overlaps with another part of the effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the second scanning path and the third scanning path. The compression plate according to claim 1.

5. The guide member further includes a frame portion, The second guide portion extends from one end of the frame portion to the opposing other end, The third guide portion extends from the other end toward the one end of the frame portion. The compression plate according to claim 4.

6. The guide member further includes a frame portion, The second guide portion extends from one end of the frame portion to the opposing other end, The third guide portion extends from the one end of the frame portion to the other end. The compression plate according to claim 4.

7. The guide member further includes a frame portion, The second guide portion connects one end of the frame portion to the opposing other end, The third guide portion connects the one end and the other end of the frame portion. The compression plate according to claim 4.

8. an intermediate member for interposing between the ultrasonic probe and a subject; The intermediate member is provided over the entire lower surface of the main body. The compression plate according to claim 1.

9. The guide member further includes a position detection sensor that detects a position of the ultrasonic probe. The compression plate according to claim 1.

10. A mammography apparatus comprising the compression plate according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. an ultrasonic imaging device including an ultrasonic probe; a mammography device equipped with a compression plate; An image capture system comprising: The compression plate is A box-shaped main body having an open upper portion; a guide member provided in the main body portion, the guide member guiding the ultrasonic probe along a scanning direction of the ultrasonic probe; Equipped with The guide member is a first guide unit that guides the ultrasonic probe along a first scanning path; a second guide unit that guides the ultrasonic probe along a second scanning path; Including, the first guide unit and the second guide unit are arranged such that a part of an effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe overlaps with another part of the effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe when the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path. Image capture system.

12. The ultrasonic probe includes: A transmitter / receiver unit for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; A gripping portion continuous with the transceiver portion; Including, The width of the gripping portion is shorter than the width of the effective image area of ​​the transmitting / receiving portion.

12. An image capture system according to claim 11.

13. The ultrasonic probe has a recess on a side surface of the grip portion, When the ultrasonic probe is scanned along the first scanning path and the second scanning path, the recess comes into contact with the first guide portion and the second guide portion.

13. An image capture system according to claim 12.

14. The radius of the recess is larger than the radius of the cross-sectional shape of each of the first guide portion and the second guide portion.

14. An image capture system according to claim 13.

15. the guide member further includes a third guide portion that guides the ultrasonic probe along a third scanning path; When the width of the second guide portion is W1, the distance between the second guide portion and the third guide portion is W2, the width of the third guide portion is W3, and the width of the effective image area of ​​the ultrasonic probe is W4, W4>W1 / 2+W2+W3 / 2 Satisfy the relationship 12. An image capture system according to claim 11.

16. an intermediate member for interposing between the ultrasonic probe and a subject; The intermediate member is provided in the transmitting / receiving unit of the ultrasonic probe.

13. An image capture system according to claim 12.

Images