Acoustic matching member and imaging method of medical image

Abstract

To provide an acoustic matching member that can be spread and remains on a body surface and is easy to be wipe off, and an imaging method of a medical image.SOLUTION: An acoustic matching member to be applied onto a body surface when an ultrasonic image is captured, is a mixture containing water and a hydrophilic macromolecule having a hydrophilic functional group and having 8 or more carbon atoms, wherein a viscosity of the acoustic matching member is 5 mPa s or more and 20,000 mPa s or less.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an acoustic matching member and a method for capturing a medical image.

Background Art

[0002] An ultrasonic imaging device for capturing an ultrasonic image of a subject is known. As a method for capturing an ultrasonic image by an ultrasonic imaging device, for example, a method for capturing an ultrasonic image in which a subject is placed in a compressed state by a compression member is known. As such a capturing method, Patent Document 1 discloses a capturing method for capturing an ultrasonic image of a breast in a compressed state using a mammography device that captures a radiation image with the breast in a compressed state by a compression member as the subject.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, when capturing an ultrasonic image, the body surface in a state where an acoustic matching member is applied is scanned with an ultrasonic probe. As the acoustic matching member, it is desired to spread and stay on the body surface. In addition, gel-like acoustic matching members such as echogel used in the prior art may be difficult to wipe off.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an acoustic matching member that spreads and stays on the body surface while being easy to wipe off, and a method for capturing a medical image.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, the acoustic matching member according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is an acoustic matching member applied to the body surface when taking an ultrasonic image, and is a mixed liquid containing water and a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and having 8 or more carbon atoms, and the viscosity is 5 mPa·s or more and 20,000 mPa·s or less.

[0007] The acoustic matching member according to the second aspect is the acoustic matching member according to the first aspect, wherein the hydrophilic polymer is a monohydric alcohol and an aliphatic alcohol.

[0008] The acoustic matching member according to the third aspect is the acoustic matching member according to the second aspect, wherein the hydrophilic polymer is at least one of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, and lauryl alcohol.

[0009] The acoustic matching member according to the fourth aspect is the acoustic matching member according to the first aspect, wherein the mixed liquid is lotion.

[0010] The acoustic matching member according to the fifth aspect is the acoustic matching member according to the first aspect, wherein the ultrasonic image is taken by scanning the probe on a compression member that compresses the subject into a compressed state.

[0011] Further, to achieve the above object, the method for taking a medical image according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure is to use an acoustic matching member that is a mixed liquid containing water and a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and having 8 or more carbon atoms, and the viscosity is 5 mPa·s or more and 20,000 mPa·s or less. The ultrasonic image is taken by scanning the surface of the subject in a state where the acoustic matching member is applied to the body surface with a probe while the subject is compressed by a compression member having a compression surface with hydrophilic processing in the region contacting the body surface to obtain an ultrasonic image.

[0012] The method for photographing a medical image according to the seventh aspect is, in the method for photographing a medical image according to the sixth aspect, continuously with the photographing of an ultrasonic image, irradiate a subject in a state of being compressed by a compression member with radiation, and obtain a radiation image obtained by a radiation detector that detects the radiation transmitted through the subject.

[0013] The method for photographing a medical image according to the eighth aspect is, in the method for photographing a medical image according to the sixth aspect, the hydrophilic processing is processing for applying a hydrophilic coating to a region.

[0014] The method for photographing a medical image according to the ninth aspect is, in the method for photographing a medical image according to the sixth aspect, the hydrophilic processing is processing for providing unevenness to a region.

[0015] The method for photographing a medical image according to the tenth aspect is, in the method for photographing a medical image according to the ninth aspect, the processing for providing unevenness is processing for providing a plurality of grooves having a depth of 30 μm or more and a groove width of 20 μm or more and 30 μm or less with a surface width of 10 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

Advantages of the Invention

[0016] According to the present disclosure, while spreading and staying on the body surface, it can be easily wiped off.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that this embodiment does not limit the present invention.

[0019] First, an example of the overall configuration in the image capturing system of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 shows a configuration diagram representing an example of the overall configuration in the image capturing system 1 of this embodiment.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the image capturing system 1 of this embodiment includes a radiation image capturing system 2 and an ultrasonic image capturing device 16.

[0021] First, the configuration of the ultrasonic image capturing device 16 will be described. The ultrasonic image capturing device 16 is a device that captures ultrasonic images of a subject's breast by a user, and is a so-called cart-type ultrasonic image capturing device. Note that the ultrasonic image capturing device 16 may be a so-called compact type or hand-held type ultrasonic image capturing device other than the cart type.

[0022] The ultrasonic image capturing device 16 of this embodiment includes a control unit 60, a storage unit 62, an I / F (Interface) unit 64, an ultrasonic probe 69, an operation unit 66, and a display unit 68. The control unit 60 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. (all not shown in the figure), and controls the overall operation of the ultrasonic image capturing device 16. The ROM stores various programs in advance, including a program for controlling the capture of ultrasonic images, which is executed by the CPU. The RAM temporarily stores various data.

[0023] The storage unit 62 stores the captured ultrasonic images and other various information. Specific examples of the storage unit 62 include an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.

[0024] The operation unit 66 is used for the user to input instructions regarding the capture of ultrasonic images and various other information. The operation unit 66 is not particularly limited, and examples include various switches, touch panels, touch pens, and mice. The display unit 68 displays various information and ultrasonic images corresponding to the received signals received from the ultrasonic probe 69. Note that the operation unit 66 and the display unit 68 may be integrated into a touch panel display.

[0025] The I / F unit 64 communicates various information with the RIS 5 and the image storage system 9 via wireless communication or wired communication. The ultrasonic image captured by the ultrasonic imaging device 16 is transmitted to the image storage system 9 via the I / F unit 64 by wireless communication or wired communication.

[0026] The ultrasonic probe 69 is moved by the user along the upper surface 70A of the compression member 70 (see FIG. 2, the surface opposite to the side in contact with the subject's breast), and an ultrasonic image of the breast is obtained by scanning the breast with ultrasonic waves.

[0027] The ultrasonic probe 69 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers (not shown) arranged in a one-dimensional or two-dimensional manner. Each ultrasonic transducer transmits ultrasonic waves based on the applied drive signal and outputs a received signal by receiving ultrasonic echoes.

[0028] 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 typified by PZT (lead zirconate titanate: Pb(lead) zirconate titanate) or a polymer piezoelectric element typified 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. Also, each vibrator expands and contracts by receiving the propagating ultrasonic waves and generates an electrical signal. These electrical signals are output as ultrasonic reception signals and input into the main body (not shown) of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 16 via a cable (not shown).

[0029] Next, the configuration of the radiographic imaging system 2 will be described. The radiographic imaging system 2 includes a mammography apparatus 10 and a console 12.

[0030] The console 12 of the present embodiment has a function of controlling the mammography apparatus 10 using the imaging order and various information acquired from an RIS (Radiology Information System) 5 etc. via a wireless communication LAN (Local Area Network) etc., and instructions etc. performed by the user using the operation unit 66 (see FIG. 2) etc. of the mammography apparatus 10. Examples of the console 12 include a server computer etc.

[0031] The console 12 of the present embodiment includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 22, an I / F unit 24, an operation unit 26, and a display unit 28. The control unit 20 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. (all not shown) and controls the operation of the mammography apparatus 10. The ROM stores in advance various programs including a program for controlling the mammography apparatus 10 to be executed by the CPU. The RAM temporarily stores various data.

[0032] The storage unit 22 stores the captured radiation images and various other types of information. Specific examples of the storage unit 22 include HDDs, SSDs, etc.

[0033] The operation unit 26 is used for the user to input instructions regarding the capture of radiation images and various other types of information. The operation unit 26 is not particularly limited, and examples include various switches, touch panels, touch pens, and mice, etc. The display unit 28 displays various types of information and radiation images captured by the mammography apparatus 10. Note that the operation unit 26 and the display unit 28 may be integrated into a touch panel display.

[0034] The I / F unit 24 communicates various types of information with the image storage system 9 such as RIS5 and PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) via wireless communication or wired communication. The radiation image captured by the mammography apparatus 10 is transmitted to the image storage system 9 via the I / F unit 24 by wireless communication or wired communication.

[0035] On the other hand, the mammography apparatus 10 of the present embodiment is an apparatus that irradiates radiation R (for example, X-rays) onto the breast of a subject and captures a radiation image of the breast with the breast as the subject. Note that the mammography apparatus 10 may be an apparatus that captures the breast of a subject not only in a state where the subject is standing (standing position) but also in a state where the subject is sitting on a chair (including a wheelchair) or the like (sitting position).

[0036] FIG. 2 shows a side view illustrating an example of the appearance of the mammography apparatus 10 of the present embodiment. Note that FIG. 2 is a side view when the mammography apparatus 10 is viewed from the right side of the subject. As shown in FIG. 2, the mammography apparatus 10 includes a radiation source 36R, a radiation detector 30, an imaging table 40 disposed between the radiation source 36R and the radiation detector 30, and a compression member 70 that compresses the breast between the imaging table 40.

[0037] The imaging table 40 includes a control unit 50, a storage unit 52, an I / F unit 54, an operation unit 56, and a radiation detector 30. The control unit 50 controls the overall operation of the mammography apparatus 10 according to the control of the console 12. The control unit 50 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. (all are not shown in the figure). Various programs including a program for controlling the imaging of radiation images, which is executed by the CPU, are stored in advance in the ROM. The RAM temporarily stores various data.

[0038] The storage unit 52 stores image data of radiation images and various other information. The storage unit 52 is realized by a storage medium such as an HDD, an SSD, and a flash memory, for example. Hereinafter, the "image data of radiation images" will be simply referred to as "radiation images". Similarly, the "image data of ultrasonic images" will be simply referred to as "ultrasonic images".

[0039] The I / F unit 54 communicates various information with the console 12 by wired communication or wireless communication. Specifically, the I / F unit 54 receives information regarding the control of the mammography apparatus 10 from the console 12. Also, the I / F unit 54 transmits a radiation image to the console 12.

[0040] The operation unit 56 is a part provided on the imaging table 40 or the like that can be operated by a user's hand, foot, etc., and is, for example, a switch, a button, and a touch panel. Also, for example, the operation unit 56 may receive voice input from the user.

[0041] The radiation detector 30 is disposed inside the imaging table 40 and detects the radiation R that has passed through the breast, which is the subject. In the mammography apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when imaging is performed, the breast of the subject is positioned on the imaging surface 40A of the imaging table 40 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 from the viewpoints of the transmissibility and intensity of the radiation R.

[0042] The radiation detector 30 detects the radiation R that has passed through the breast of the subject and the imaging table 40, generates a radiation image based on the detected radiation R, and outputs the generated radiation image. The type of the radiation detector 30 of the present embodiment is not particularly limited. For example, it may be an indirect conversion type radiation detector that converts radiation R into light and then converts the converted light into electric charges, or a direct conversion type radiation detector that directly converts radiation R into electric charges.

[0043] The radiation source 36R is provided inside the radiation irradiation unit 36. As shown in FIG. 2, the radiation irradiation unit 36 is provided on the arm unit 42 together with the imaging table 40 and the compression unit 46. As shown in FIG. 2, the mammography apparatus 10 of the present embodiment includes an arm unit 42, a base 44, and a 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. The arm unit 42 is relatively rotatable with respect to the base 44 about the shaft unit 45 as a rotation axis.

[0044] Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the compression member 70 is attached to the compression unit 46. The compression unit 46 and the arm unit 42 are each relatively rotatable with respect to the base 44 about the shaft unit 45 as a rotation axis. In the present embodiment, gears (not shown) are provided on the shaft unit 45, the arm unit 42, and the compression unit 46, respectively. 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.

[0045] The compression member 70 of the present embodiment moves in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) by a compression plate driving unit (not shown) provided inside the compression unit 46, and compresses the breast of the subject between the compression member 70 and the imaging table 40. As shown in FIG. 2, with respect to the moving direction of the compression member 70, the direction in which the breast is compressed, in other words, the direction approaching the imaging surface 40A is referred to as the "compression direction", and the direction in which the compression of the breast is released, in other words, the direction approaching the radiation irradiation unit 36 is referred to as the "compression release direction".

[0046] Note that the compression member 70 is not limited to compressing the entire breast, and may compress a part of the breast. In other words, a compression member 70 smaller than the breast may be used. As such a compression member 70, for example, a compression member 70 used for so-called spot imaging that captures a radiation image of only the region where a lesion exists is known.

[0047] The compression member 70 is preferably optically transparent for alignment and confirmation of the compression state during breast compression, and is formed of a material having excellent radiation R transmissibility. Further, it is desirable that the compression member 70 is formed of a material that easily transmits ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 69 of the ultrasonic imaging device 16. As the material of the compression member 70, for example, resins such as polymethylpentene, polycarbonate, acrylic, and polyethylene terephthalate can be used. In particular, polymethylpentene has low rigidity, excellent stretchability and flexibility, and has suitable values for the acoustic impedance that affects the reflectivity of ultrasonic waves and the attenuation coefficient that affects the attenuation of ultrasonic waves, so it is suitable as the material of the compression member 70. Note that the members constituting the compression member 70 are not limited to this embodiment.

[0048] Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the compression surface 70B, which is the surface of the compression member 70 that contacts the breast W of the subject, has a hydrophilic region 70h in the region that contacts the breast W and is subjected to hydrophilic processing. Note that the hydrophilic region 70h on the compression surface 70B only needs to include at least the region that contacts the breast W, and may be the entire compression surface 70B.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 3, when capturing an ultrasonic image, the breast W placed on the imaging surface 40A of the imaging table 40 is brought into a compressed state by the compression member 70 with an acoustic matching member 80 applied to the body surface that contacts the compression member 70. The acoustic matching member 80 is used to suppress the difference in acoustic impedance at the interface between the breast W and the compression member 70.

[0050] The acoustic matching member 80 needs to spread and stay on the body surface and the compression surface 70B of the breast. When the viscosity of the acoustic matching member 80 is low, the contact angle with the body surface becomes large, and it does not spread over the entire body surface but remains as a plurality of water droplets. For example, in the case of pure water with a viscosity of around 1 mPa·s measured under the measurement conditions of a measurement temperature of 20°C and a rotation speed of 1300 revolutions per minute (rpm), it does not spread over the entire body surface but remains as a plurality of water droplets. Also, when the viscosity is low, it becomes easy to flow, so it becomes difficult to stay on the body surface.

[0051] On the other hand, in the case of an acoustic matching member such as an echo jelly widely used in ultrasonic imaging, since the viscosity is 25000 mPa·s to 45000 mPa·s, it can spread sufficiently over the entire body surface and stay. However, when the viscosity is this high, it is difficult to flow, so it becomes difficult to wipe off and difficult to clean.

[0052] Therefore, in the acoustic matching member 80 of the present embodiment, the viscosity measured under the measurement conditions of a measurement temperature of 20°C and a rotation speed of 1300 revolutions per minute (rpm) by a rotational viscometer such as a B-type viscometer is 5 mPa·s or more and 20000 mPa·s or less. By setting the viscosity as such, the acoustic matching member 80 can spread and stay on the entire body surface of the breast W in a compressed state by the compression member 70, and it becomes easy to wipe off.

[0053] The difference in acoustic impedance at the interface between the breast W and the compression member 70 can be suppressed, and the acoustic matching member 80 of the present embodiment having the above viscosity is a mixed liquid containing water and a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and 8 or more carbon atoms. Specifically, as the hydrophilic polymer, a monohydric alcohol and an aliphatic alcohol are preferable. In particular, as the hydrophilic polymer, cetyl alcohol (CH 3 (CH 2 ) 15 OH), stearyl alcohol (CH 3 (CH 2 ) 17 OH), behenyl alcohol (CH 3 (CH2 ) 21 OH), and lauryl alcohol (CH 3 (CH 2 ) 11 OH) is preferably at least one of them.

[0054] As such a liquid mixture used as the acoustic matching member 80, "lotion" can be used. Note that as the lotion, those that do not contain anhydrous ethanol, which is so-called "alcohol-free" or "non-alcohol", as a component are preferably used.

[0055] Note that the acoustic matching member 80 needs to spread sufficiently on the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 and not contain bubbles or the like mixed therein. Therefore, in the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70, at least the region in contact with the breast W is preferably hydrophilic. In other words, it is preferable that the contact angle of the acoustic matching member 80 with respect to at least the region of the compression surface 70B in contact with the breast W is small. However, resins and the like described above that can be used as the material of the compression member 70 are often hydrophobic. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 of the present embodiment has a hydrophilic region 70h in which the region in contact with the breast W is subjected to hydrophilic processing.

[0056] Specifically, a hydrophilic coating is applied to the hydrophilic region 70h of the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 of the present embodiment. The type of the hydrophilic coating and the method of applying the hydrophilic coating are not limited.

[0057] For example, as a method of performing a hydrophilic coating, a plasma treatment is performed in which a highly hydrophilic functional group (OH group) is formed on the surface of the hydrophilic region 70h using plasma, and the hydrophilicity is chemically improved by activation, surface preparation, and the like.

[0058] In addition, as a method of performing a hydrophilic coating, there is a method of applying a surfactant to the hydrophilic region 70h to reduce the interfacial tension at the interface between the acoustic matching member 80 and the compression surface 70B and improve hydrophilicity.

[0059] Furthermore, as a method of performing a hydrophilic coating, there is a method of applying a hydrophilic binder to the hydrophilic region 70h to improve the adhesion between the acoustic matching member 80 and the compression surface 70B and improve hydrophilicity.

[0060] In the image capturing system 1 of the present embodiment, while the breast W is in a compressed state by the compression member 70, X-ray image capturing and ultrasonic image capturing are continuously performed. In the present embodiment, without completely releasing the compression by the compression member 70, X-ray image capturing and ultrasonic image capturing are continuously performed. Therefore, X-ray image capturing is performed with the acoustic matching member 80 provided. Therefore, the hydrophilic processing applied to the hydrophilic region 70h of the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 and the material of the acoustic matching member 80 are specifically selected in consideration of the influence on the X-ray image. For example, as the acoustic matching member 80, it is preferable that the hydrophilic polymer is composed of atoms with an atomic number of 11 or less.

[0061] Next, the procedure for capturing X-ray images and ultrasonic images using the image capturing system 1 will be described. FIG. 4 shows a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure for capturing X-ray images and ultrasonic images using the image capturing system 1 of the present embodiment.

[0062] First, in step S10 of FIG. 9, the user positions the breast W of the subject to be imaged on the imaging surface 40A of the imaging table 40.

[0063] In the next step S12, as shown in FIG. 3, the user applies the acoustic matching member 80 to the body surface of the breast W. When the application of the acoustic matching member 80 is completed, the user instructs the compression of the breast W using the operation unit 66.

[0064] In the next step S14, the control unit 60 of the mammography apparatus 10 starts compressing the breast W with the compression member 70. Specifically, when receiving an instruction to compress the breast W, the control unit 60 moves the compression member 70 in the compression direction to compress the breast W between the compression member 70 and the imaging surface 40A of the imaging table 40. As a result, the breast W comes into contact with the hydrophilic region 70h of the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 via the acoustic matching member 80.

[0065] In the next step S16, the mammography apparatus 10 takes a radiation image of the breast W. Specifically, when the user operates the irradiation switch included in the operation unit 66, the radiation source 36R irradiates the breast W with radiation R, and the radiation detector 30 takes a radiation image. The radiation image taken by the mammography apparatus 10 is output to the console 12 and then output from the console 12 to the image storage system 9 at a predetermined timing and stored in the image storage system 9.

[0066] When the taking of the radiation image is completed, in the next step S18, as shown in FIG. 3, the user places the acoustic matching member 82 on the upper surface 70A of the compression member 70. The acoustic matching member 82 is used to suppress the difference in acoustic impedance at the interface between the compression member 70 and the ultrasonic probe 69. As an example, in this embodiment, a commonly used echo jelly, gel pad, etc. are used. Note that if the acoustic matching member 82 is provided on the surface of the ultrasonic probe 69 that contacts the compression member 70, different from the form shown in FIG. 3, this step is omitted.

[0067] In the next step S20, a technician scans the ultrasonic probe 69 of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 16 along the upper surface 70A of the compression member 70 where the acoustic matching member 82 is provided to take a plurality of ultrasonic images of the breast W that is in a compressed state by the compression member 70. The ultrasonic images taken by the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 16 are temporarily stored in the storage unit 62 and then output from the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 16 to the image storage system 9 at a predetermined timing and stored in the image storage system 9.

[0068] When the imaging of the ultrasonic image U is completed, in the next step S22, the compression of the breast W by the compression member 70 is released. Specifically, the user gives an instruction for releasing the compression by operating the operation unit 66. When the control unit 50 receives the release of the compression of the breast W, it moves the compression member 70 in the compression release direction, moves the compression member 70 away from the imaging surface 40A of the imaging table 40, and releases the compression of the breast W by the compression member 70.

[0069] In this way, when the process of step S22 is completed, the imaging of the radiographic image and the ultrasonic image is completed.

[0070] When the compression of the breast W is released, the acoustic matching member 80 applied to the body surface of the breast W is wiped off by the subject. Further, the acoustic matching member 80 adhering to the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 and the acoustic matching member 82 adhering to the upper surface 70A are cleaned.

[0071] (Modification example) A modification example of the hydrophilic treatment applied to the hydrophilic region 70h of the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. A part of the compression member 70 is shown in FIG. 5.

[0072] It is known, for example, from the Wenzel model or the like that the wettability, that is, the hydrophilicity, is determined based on the surface area of the interface between the solid and the liquid. By forming an uneven structure on the hydrophilic interface and increasing the surface area, the hydrophilicity may be enhanced.

[0073] Therefore, in the hydrophilic region 70h of the compression surface 70B of the compression member 70 of this modification example, as shown in FIG. 5, as a hydrophilic treatment, a plurality of grooves are provided to provide unevenness in the hydrophilic region 70h.

[0074] As described above, the smaller the contact angle between the acoustic matching member 80 and the hydrophilic region 70h of the pressing surface 70B, the higher the hydrophilicity. In the concavo-convex structure, the deeper the groove depth D, the smaller the contact angle. Also, the larger the groove width H1 and the surface width H2, the closer the surface approaches flatness. Therefore, considering the affinity with the acoustic matching member 80, when providing grooves as the concavo-convex structure as in this modification example, it is preferable to provide a plurality of grooves with a groove depth D of 30 μm or more and a groove width H1 of 20 μm or more and 30 μm or less, and a surface width H2 of 10 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

[0075] Examples of the processing for providing such a concavo-convex structure include so-called embossing. Note that the specific processing method is not limited. For example, a method of directly forming the hydrophilic region 70h of the pressing surface 70B of the pressing member 70 into a concavo-convex shape may be used. Also, for example, a method of applying a hydrophilic coating agent or the like to the hydrophilic region 70h to impart a concavo-convex shape to the surface may be used.

[0076] Note that, as in this modification example, when performing concavo-convex processing on the hydrophilic region 70h of the pressing surface 70B of the pressing member 70, the transparency of the pressing member 70 may decrease. However, when pressing the breast W, since the acoustic matching member 80 is applied to the body surface and the breast W is pressed, the acoustic matching member 80 is filled in the groove portion of the concavo-convex structure, and the transparency can be improved. Thus, when pressing the breast W, the transparency can be improved, and the user can sufficiently visually recognize the state of the breast W through the pressing member 70.

[0077] As described above, the acoustic matching member 80 of the above-described embodiment is an acoustic matching member applied to the body surface when taking an ultrasonic image, and is a mixed liquid containing water and a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and having 8 or more carbon atoms, and the viscosity is 5 mPa·s or more and 20000 mPa·s or less.

[0078] By adopting such a configuration, the viscosity can be made appropriate. Therefore, the acoustic matching member 80 can spread and stay on the body surface while being easily wiped off.

[0079] Also, in the above embodiment, since lotion is used as the acoustic matching member, it is possible to protect the body surface, such as providing moisture to the breast as the subject.

[0080] In the above embodiment, as shown in the flow of FIG. 4, continuously taking a radiation image and an ultrasonic image while keeping the breast W in a compressed state by the compression member 70 is referred to as "continuous imaging". Note that the order of taking the radiation image (step S16 in FIG. 4) and the ultrasonic image (step S20 in FIG. 4) is not limited. However, from the viewpoint of shortening the compression time of the breast W, it is preferable to take the radiation image first as in this embodiment. Also, if it can be considered that there is no change in the compressed state of the breast W between taking the radiation image and the ultrasonic image, the compression force for compressing the breast W by the compression member 70 may be weakened. For example, if it can be considered that there is no change in the development state of the mammary gland of the breast W, the compression force by the compression member 70 may be weakened.

[0081] In addition, the configurations and operations of the image capturing system 1, the radiation image capturing system 2, the mammography apparatus 10, the console 12, the ultrasonic image capturing apparatus 16, etc. described in the above embodiments are examples, and it goes without saying that they can be changed according to the situation without departing from the gist of the present invention. Also, it goes without saying that the above embodiments and modification examples may be appropriately combined.

[0082] Regarding the above embodiments, the following supplementary notes are further disclosed.

[0083] (Supplementary Note 1) An acoustic matching member applied to the body surface when taking an ultrasonic image, water, a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and 8 or more carbon atoms, and is a mixed liquid containing The viscosity is 5 mPa·s or more and 20,000 mPa·s or less. Acoustic matching member.

[0084] (Appendix 2) The hydrophilic polymer is a monohydric alcohol and an aliphatic alcohol. The acoustic matching member according to Appendix 1.

[0085] (Appendix 3) The hydrophilic polymer is at least one of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, and lauryl alcohol. The acoustic matching member according to Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0086] (Appendix 4) The mixed solution is a lotion. The acoustic matching member according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3.

[0087] (Appendix 5) The ultrasonic image is taken by scanning a probe over a compression member that compresses the subject. The acoustic matching member according to any one of Appendices 1 to 4.

[0088] (Appendix 6) The hydrophilic polymer is composed of atoms with an atomic number of 11 or less. The acoustic matching member according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5.

[0089] (Appendix 7) A compression member that compresses the subject when taking an ultrasonic image, having a compression surface with hydrophilic processing in the region that contacts the subject. Compression member.

[0090] (Appendix 8) The hydrophilic processing is processing for applying a hydrophilic coating to the region. The compression member described in Supplementary Note 7.

[0091] (Supplementary Note 9) The hydrophilic processing is processing for providing unevenness to the region. The compression member described in Supplementary Note 7 or Supplementary Note 8.

[0092] (Supplementary Note 10) The processing for providing the unevenness is processing for providing a plurality of grooves with a depth of 30 μm or more and a groove width of 20 μm or more and 30 μm or less with a surface width of 10 μm or more and 30 μm or less. The compression member described in Supplementary Note 9.

[0093] (Supplementary Note 11) A subject in a state where an acoustic matching member, which is a mixed liquid containing water and a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and having 8 or more carbon atoms and having a viscosity of 5 mPa·s or more and 20,000 mPa·s or less, is applied to the body surface, is compressed by a compression member having a compression surface subjected to hydrophilic processing in a region in contact with the body surface. Performing ultrasonic imaging for acquiring an ultrasonic image obtained by scanning a surface of the compression member facing the compression surface with a probe. A method for capturing a medical image.

[0094] (Supplementary Note 12) Subsequent to the acquisition of the ultrasonic image, Irradiating the subject in a state compressed by the compression member with radiation, Performing radiation imaging for acquiring a radiation image obtained by a radiation detector that detects radiation transmitted through the subject. The method for capturing a medical image according to Supplementary Note 11.

[0095] (Supplementary Note 13) The hydrophilic processing is processing for applying a hydrophilic coating to the region. The method for capturing a medical image according to Supplementary Note 11 or Supplementary Note 12.

[0096] (Supplementary Note 14) The hydrophilic processing is processing for providing unevenness to the region. The method for photographing a medical image according to any one of Appendices 11 to 13.

[0097] (Appendix 15) The processing for providing the unevenness is processing for providing a plurality of grooves having a depth of 30 μm or more and a groove width of 20 μm or more and 30 μm or less with a surface width of 10 μm or more and 30 μm or less. The method for photographing a medical image according to Appendix 14.

Explanation of Signs

[0098] 1 Image capturing system 2 Radiation image capturing system 5 RIS 9 Image storage system 10 Mammography device 12 Console 16 Ultrasonic image capturing device 20, 50, 60 Control unit 22, 52, 62 Storage unit 24, 54, 64 I / F unit 26, 56, 66 Operation unit 28, 68 Display unit 30 Radiation detector, 30A Detection surface 36 Radiation irradiation unit, 36R Radiation source 40 Imaging table, 40A Imaging surface 42 Arm part 44 Base 45 Shaft part 46 Compression unit 69 Ultrasonic probe 70 Compression plate, 70A Upper surface, 70B Compression surface, 70h Hydrophilic region 80, 82 Acoustic matching member D Groove depth H1 Groove width, H2 Surface width R Radiation W Breast

Claims

1. An acoustic matching member applied to the body surface when taking an ultrasonic image, comprising water, a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and 8 or more carbon atoms, and being a mixed solution containing the above, wherein the viscosity is 5 mPa·s or more and 20,000 mPa·s or less, an acoustic matching member.

2. The hydrophilic polymer is a monohydric alcohol and an aliphatic alcohol, the acoustic matching member according to Claim 1.

3. The hydrophilic polymer is at least one of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, and lauryl alcohol, the acoustic matching member according to Claim 2.

4. The mixed solution is a lotion, the acoustic matching member according to Claim 1.

5. The ultrasonic image is taken by scanning the probe on a compression member that compresses the subject, the acoustic matching member according to Claim 1.

6. An ultrasonic image capturing method for capturing an ultrasonic image obtained by scanning a surface of a compression member having a hydrophilic processed surface in a region contacting the body surface, with the probe, while the subject in a state where an acoustic matching member, which is a mixed solution containing water and a hydrophilic polymer having a hydrophilic functional group and 8 or more carbon atoms and having a viscosity of 5 mPa·s or more and 20,000 mPa·s or less, is applied to the body surface, is being compressed by the compression member, wherein the ultrasonic image is obtained by scanning a surface of the compression member facing the compression surface with the probe. A method for capturing a medical image.

7. Subsequent to the ultrasonic image capturing, irradiating the subject being compressed by the compression member with radiation, and capturing a radiation image obtained by a radiation detector that detects the radiation transmitted through the subject. The method for capturing a medical image according to Claim 6.

8. The hydrophilic processing is a process of applying a hydrophilic coating to the region. The method for capturing a medical image according to Claim 6.

9. The hydrophilic processing is a process of providing irregularities in the region. The method for capturing a medical image according to Claim 6.

10. The process of providing the irregularities is a process of providing a plurality of grooves with a depth of 30 μm or more and a groove width of 20 μm or more and 30 μm or less, with a surface width of 10 μm or more and 30 μm or less. The method for capturing a medical image according to Claim 9.

Images