Ultrasonic diagnostic device and program

Abstract

To reduce the user's time and effort required to change imaging conditions in order to acquire an ultrasonic image suitable for inspection.SOLUTION: An acquisition unit (e.g., a transmission / reception unit 14 and an image generation unit 16) acquires a first ultrasonic image of a subject according to a first imaging condition. A recognition unit 28 executes processing for recognizing a cross-section for the first ultrasonic image and calculates the confidence level of the recognition. If a state in which the confidence level satisfies a threshold condition continues for a predetermined period of time, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image of the subject according to a second imaging condition different from the first imaging condition according to the recognized cross-section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] A technique is known in which a cross-section that has been photographed is recognized based on an ultrasonic image obtained by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, and image processing corresponding to the recognized cross-section is executed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a system that performs imaging settings optimized for a specific view.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, the image quality of an ultrasonic image may change according to the attributes of the subject, or may change depending on the arrangement of organs. For example, in an ultrasonic examination of the abdomen, the organs and cross-sections recognized based on the ultrasonic image may deviate from standard organs and cross-sections. To give a specific example, when an ultrasonic image of a subject with a BMI of a certain value (for example, 30) or more is taken, due to the attenuation of the fat layer on the surface layer of the subject, it becomes difficult to see the structure of tissues such as blood vessels deep inside. As a result, the structure of tissues deviating from the standard cross-section will be identified.

[0006] Due to the above problems, for example, there was a problem that the reliability of cross-section recognition did not increase for some subjects. In such a case, users such as doctors and medical technicians need to perform operations such as adjusting the imaging conditions using ultrasound so that an ultrasonic image suitable for the examination can be obtained. Therefore, the burden on the user increases. For example, if adjustments are made for each of a plurality of cross-sections, the user's labor increases accordingly, and the burden on the user increases.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the labor of the user who changes the imaging conditions in order to obtain an ultrasonic image suitable for the examination.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires a first ultrasonic image of a subject according to a first imaging condition, and a recognition unit that executes a process of recognizing a cross-section for the first ultrasonic image and calculates a reliability of the recognition. When a state in which the reliability satisfies a threshold condition continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image of the subject according to a second imaging condition different from the first imaging condition and corresponding to the recognized cross-section. It is an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by this.

[0009] When a state in which the reliability is included within a threshold range continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit may acquire the second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition.

[0010] When a state in which a moving average value of the reliability is included within a threshold range continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit may acquire the second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition.

[0011] The reliability may be the reliability of recognition for the cross-section where the highest reliability is obtained.

[0012] The recognition unit further executes a process of recognizing a cross-section of the second ultrasonic image and calculates a reliability of the recognition. The acquisition unit may further acquire the second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition when the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is higher than the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image.

[0013] The acquisition unit may further continue ultrasonic imaging according to the first imaging condition when the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is less than or equal to the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image.

[0014] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes a control unit that displays the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image on a display. The acquisition unit may acquire an ultrasonic image according to the imaging condition selected by the user from the first imaging condition and the second imaging condition.

[0015] The second imaging condition is a condition related to image processing. The acquisition unit may acquire the second ultrasonic image by performing image processing according to the second imaging condition on the data acquired according to the first imaging condition.

[0016] One aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to function as an acquisition unit that acquires a first ultrasonic image of a subject according to a first imaging condition, and a recognition unit that executes a process of recognizing a cross-section of the first ultrasonic image and calculates a reliability of the recognition. When a state in which the reliability satisfies a threshold condition continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image of the subject according to a second imaging condition different from the first imaging condition and according to the second imaging condition corresponding to the recognized cross-section.

Advantages of the Invention

[0017] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the labor of the user for changing the imaging condition in order to acquire an ultrasonic image suitable for inspection.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] With reference to FIG. 1, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10.

[0020] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 generates ultrasonic image data by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves using the ultrasonic probe 12. For example, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 transmits ultrasonic waves into the subject and receives the ultrasonic waves reflected inside the subject, thereby generating ultrasonic image data representing the internal tissues of the subject.

[0021] The ultrasonic probe 12 is a device that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic probe 12 includes, for example, a 1D array oscillator. The 1D array oscillator is composed of a plurality of ultrasonic oscillators arranged one-dimensionally. An ultrasonic beam is formed by the 1D array oscillator, and the ultrasonic beam is repeatedly electronically scanned. As a result, a scanning cross-section is formed in the living body for each electronic scan. The scanning cross-section corresponds to a two-dimensional echo data acquisition space. The ultrasonic probe 12 may include a 2D array oscillator formed by arranging a plurality of ultrasonic oscillators two-dimensionally. When an ultrasonic beam is formed by the 2D array oscillator and the ultrasonic beam is repeatedly electronically scanned, a scanning cross-section as a two-dimensional echo data acquisition space is formed for each electronic scan. When the ultrasonic beam is scanned two-dimensionally, a three-dimensional space as a three-dimensional echo data acquisition space is formed. As the scanning method, sector scanning, linear scanning, convex scanning, or the like is used.

[0022] The transmitting and receiving unit 14 functions as a transmitting beamformer and a receiving beamformer. During transmission, the transmitting and receiving unit 14 supplies a plurality of transmission signals having a certain delay relationship to a plurality of ultrasonic transducers included in the ultrasonic probe 12. Thereby, an ultrasonic transmission beam is formed. During reception, a reflected wave (i.e., an RF signal) from the living body is received by the ultrasonic probe 12, and thereby, a plurality of reception signals are output from the ultrasonic probe 12 to the transmitting and receiving unit 14. The transmitting and receiving unit 14 forms a reception beam by applying coherent addition processing to the plurality of reception signals. The data of the reception beam is output to the image generation unit 16. That is, the transmitting and receiving unit 14 performs delay processing on the reception signals obtained from each ultrasonic transducer according to the delay processing conditions for each ultrasonic transducer, and forms a reception beam by adding the plurality of reception signals obtained from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers. The delay processing conditions are defined by reception delay data indicating a delay time. A set of reception delay data (i.e., a set of delay times) corresponding to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers is supplied from the control unit 32.

[0023] By the operation of the transmitting and receiving unit 14, an ultrasonic beam (i.e., a transmission beam and a reception beam) is electronically scanned, and thereby, a scanning cross-section is formed. The scanning cross-section corresponds to a plurality of beams, and the plurality of beams constitute a reception frame (specifically, an RF signal frame). Each beam is composed of a plurality of echoes arranged in the depth direction. By repeating the electronic scanning of the ultrasonic beam, a plurality of reception frames arranged on the time axis are output from the transmitting and receiving unit 14 to the image generation unit 16. The plurality of reception frames constitute a reception frame sequence.

[0024] When the ultrasonic beam is two-dimensionally electronically scanned by the operation of the transmitting and receiving unit 14, a three-dimensional echo data acquisition space is formed, and volume data as an echo data aggregate is acquired from the three-dimensional echo data acquisition space. By repeating the electronic scanning of the ultrasonic beam, a plurality of volume data arranged on the time axis are output from the transmitting and receiving unit 14 to the image generation unit 16. The plurality of volume data constitute a volume data sequence.

[0025] The image generation unit 16 generates ultrasonic image data (e.g., B-mode image data) by applying signal processing such as detection, amplitude compression (e.g., logarithmic compression), and conversion functions (coordinate conversion function and interpolation processing function by a DSC (Digital Scan Converter), etc.) to the received frame output from the transmission / reception unit 14.

[0026] Hereinafter, the image data will be appropriately referred to as "image". For example, the ultrasonic image data will be appropriately referred to as "ultrasonic image", and the B-mode image data will be appropriately referred to as "B-mode image". Note that the ultrasonic image according to the present embodiment is not limited to the B-mode image, and may be any image generated by transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves. For example, the ultrasonic image according to the present embodiment may be a color Doppler image, a pulsed Doppler image, a strain imaging image, or a shear wave elastography image.

[0027] Note that the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16 correspond to an example of the acquisition unit.

[0028] The display processing unit 18 generates a display image by performing overlay processing on the graphic data necessary for the ultrasonic image. The display image is output to the display unit 20. One or more images are arranged and displayed in a display mode according to the display mode.

[0029] The display unit 20 is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an EL display. An ultrasonic image such as a B-mode image is displayed on the display unit 20. The display unit 20 may be a device that also serves as the display and the operation unit 22. For example, a GUI (Graphic User Interface) may be realized by the display unit 20 and the operation unit 22. Also, a user interface such as a touch panel may be realized by the display unit 20 and the operation unit 22.

[0030] The operation unit 22 is a device for the user to input imaging conditions, commands, etc. into the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. For example, the operation unit 22 is an operation panel, a switch, a button, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, or the like.

[0031] The storage unit 24 constitutes one or more storage areas for storing data. For example, the storage unit 24 is a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), various memories (e.g., RAM, DRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (e.g., optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof.

[0032] For example, the received signal received by the transceiver unit 14, the received beam generated based on the received signal, the received frame, the volume data, the ultrasonic image, the information indicating the imaging conditions, and the information regarding the subject (e.g., patient), etc. are stored in the storage unit 24.

[0033] The analysis unit 26 includes a recognition unit 28 and an image quality adjustment unit 30, and determines the imaging conditions for adjusting the image quality of the ultrasonic image by analyzing the ultrasonic image. The analysis unit 26 outputs the information indicating the imaging conditions to the transceiver unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transceiver unit 14 and the image generation unit 16.

[0034] The imaging conditions include at least one of the conditions related to the transceiver unit 14 and the conditions related to the image generation unit 16. The conditions related to the transceiver unit 14 include the conditions related to the transmission of ultrasonic waves and the conditions related to the reception of ultrasonic waves. The conditions related to the image generation unit 16 include the conditions related to the image processing for generating the ultrasonic image. When the imaging conditions are the conditions related to the transceiver unit 14, the analysis unit 26 outputs the information indicating the imaging conditions to the transceiver unit 14. When the imaging conditions are the conditions related to the image generation unit 16, the analysis unit 26 outputs the information indicating the imaging conditions to the image generation unit 16. When the imaging conditions include the conditions related to the transceiver unit 14 and the conditions related to the image generation unit 16, the analysis unit 26 outputs the information indicating the imaging conditions to both the transceiver unit 14 and the image generation unit 16.

[0035] Specific examples include shooting conditions such as brightness, contrast, smoothing, adaptive filter, gamma value, sharpness, edge enhancement, gain, frame rate, depth of focus of the transmission beam, aperture width, center frequency of the transmitted ultrasonic wave, frequency band of the transmitted ultrasonic wave, frequency characteristics of the received ultrasonic wave, coefficients of an image processing filter (such as a smoothing filter, etc.), shape of apodization, characteristics of the receive bandpass filter, and characteristics of the dynamic range, etc. Of course, these parameters are just an example of shooting conditions, and parameters other than these may be included in the shooting conditions according to this embodiment. For example, the shooting conditions include combinations of multiple types of parameters.

[0036] When information indicating the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26 is output from the analysis unit 26 to the transmission / reception unit 14, the transmission / reception unit 14 controls the transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves by the ultrasonic probe 12 according to the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26.

[0037] When information indicating the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26 is output from the analysis unit 26 to the image generation unit 16, the image generation unit 16 adjusts the image quality of the ultrasonic image according to the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26.

[0038] When information indicating the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26 is output to the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16, the transmission / reception unit 14 controls the transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves by the ultrasonic probe 12 according to the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26, and the image generation unit 16 adjusts the image quality of the ultrasonic image according to the shooting conditions determined by the analysis unit 26.

[0039] The recognition unit 28 estimates one or a plurality of candidates for the scanned cross-section scanned by ultrasonic waves by executing a process of recognizing a cross-section for the ultrasonic image (hereinafter referred to as "cross-section recognition process"). In addition, the recognition unit 28 calculates the reliability of recognition for each candidate of the scanned cross-section. The reliability is a score representing the probability of estimation (that is, the accuracy or likelihood of estimation).

[0040] For example, the recognition unit 28 may estimate candidates for the scanning cross-section currently being scanned by performing cross-section recognition processing on the ultrasonic image currently being acquired. That is, the recognition unit 28 may estimate candidates for the scanning cross-section in real time.

[0041] As another example, the recognition unit 28 may estimate candidates for the scanning cross-section by performing cross-section recognition processing on the ultrasonic images that have already been acquired and stored in the storage unit 24 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or in an external device.

[0042] By estimating candidates for the scanning cross-section, it is possible to estimate candidates for the site represented in the ultrasonic image of the scanning cross-section. That is, the recognition unit 28 can estimate candidates for the site being scanned by the ultrasonic waves by performing cross-section recognition processing on the ultrasonic image.

[0043] As the cross-section recognition processing according to the present embodiment, a known cross-section recognition processing is used. For example, machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI) may be used for the cross-section recognition processing. There is no limitation on the type of machine learning or artificial intelligence used, and any algorithm or model may be used. For example, CNN (Convolutional Neural Network), RNN (Recurrent Neural Network), GAN (Generative Adversarial Networks), linear models, random forest - decision tree learning, support vector machine (SVM), ensemble classifier, or other algorithms may be used. Also, pattern matching such as template matching or algorithms that do not require learning such as correlation coefficient or similarity calculation may be used for the cross-section recognition processing.

[0044] For example, the recognition unit 28 estimates one or more candidates for the scanning cross-section by performing cross-section recognition processing using machine learning on the ultrasonic image, and calculates a reliability representing the likelihood of the estimation using the machine learning for each candidate of the scanning cross-section. The recognition unit 28 may estimate one or more candidates for the part being scanned by the ultrasonic wave, and calculate a reliability representing the likelihood of the estimation for each candidate of the part.

[0045] The recognition unit 28 estimates one or more candidates for the scanning cross-section where the ultrasonic wave is scanned by comparing the ultrasonic image (for example, B-mode image) generated by transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic wave with a plurality of standard cross-section images (for example, B-mode image), and calculates a reliability representing the likelihood of the estimation for each candidate of the scanning cross-section. For example, candidates for the scanning cross-section are estimated by using a technique such as pattern matching.

[0046] The standard cross-section image is an ultrasonic image for estimating the scanning cross-section. For example, one or more standard cross-section images are generated in advance for each diagnostic part and stored in the storage unit 24 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or an external device. The standard cross-section image representing a certain part is an ultrasonic image generated by scanning the standard scanning cross-section intersecting the part with ultrasonic waves. For example, the standard scanning cross-section is a cross-section to be photographed in ultrasonic inspection, a representative cross-section, or the like.

[0047] The image quality adjustment unit 30 determines imaging conditions for adjusting the image quality of the ultrasonic image. The image quality adjustment unit 30 outputs information indicating the determined imaging conditions to the transmission / reception unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16.

[0048] For example, when a candidate for the cross-section is estimated by the recognition unit 28, the image quality adjustment unit 30 determines imaging conditions suitable for photographing the estimated candidate for the cross-section (that is, imaging conditions suitable for the ultrasonic inspection of the candidate), and outputs information indicating the determined imaging conditions.

[0049] For example, for each cross-section of the diagnostic site, imaging conditions suitable for imaging the cross-section (i.e., imaging conditions suitable for ultrasonic examination of the cross-section) are predetermined, and information indicating the imaging conditions for each cross-section is stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device. For example, for each cross-section, cross-section identification information for identifying the cross-section and information indicating imaging conditions suitable for imaging the cross-section are associated in advance and stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device. The image quality adjustment unit 30 specifies the imaging conditions associated with the candidate cross-sections estimated by the recognition unit 28, and outputs information indicating the imaging conditions to the transmission / reception unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16.

[0050] For each diagnostic site, imaging conditions suitable for imaging the site (i.e., imaging conditions suitable for ultrasonic examination of the site) may be predetermined, and information indicating the imaging conditions for each site is stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device. For example, for each diagnostic site, site identification information for identifying the diagnostic site and information indicating imaging conditions suitable for imaging the diagnostic site are associated in advance and stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device. The image quality adjustment unit 30 specifies the imaging conditions associated with the site including the candidate cross-sections estimated by the recognition unit 28, and outputs information indicating the imaging conditions to the transmission / reception unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16.

[0051] The control unit 32 controls each part of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. Further, the control unit 32 causes various information to be displayed on the display unit 20.

[0052] Hereinafter, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described in detail.

[0053] First, the acquisition unit acquires a first ultrasonic image of the subject according to the first imaging conditions. That is, the transmission / reception unit 14 transmits and receives ultrasonic waves by the ultrasonic probe 12 according to the first imaging conditions, and the image generation unit 16 generates an ultrasonic image based on the reception frames output from the transmission / reception unit 14 according to the first imaging conditions. The ultrasonic image generated according to the first imaging conditions is the first ultrasonic image.

[0054] For example, the first imaging condition is a predetermined imaging condition (e.g., preset condition). The preset condition includes a plurality of types of parameters, and the information indicating the preset condition is stored in advance in the storage unit 24 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. A plurality of different preset conditions may be created in advance. In this case, a user such as a doctor or a medical technician selects a preset condition from among the plurality of different preset conditions by operating the operation unit 22. The selected preset condition is the first imaging condition. The acquisition unit (that is, the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16) acquires the first ultrasonic image according to the preset condition selected by the user. The user may create the first imaging condition by operating the operation unit 22 to set a plurality of types of parameters.

[0055] When the first ultrasonic image is acquired, the recognition unit 28 estimates one or a plurality of candidates for the scanning cross-section scanned by the ultrasonic waves by performing cross-section recognition processing on the first ultrasonic image. Further, the recognition unit 28 calculates the reliability of recognition for each candidate of the scanning cross-section.

[0056] When the state where the reliability of a specific candidate satisfies the threshold condition continues for a predetermined time T, the acquisition unit acquires the second ultrasonic image of the subject according to the second imaging condition. That is, the transmission / reception unit 14 transmits and receives ultrasonic waves by the ultrasonic probe 12 according to the second imaging condition, and the image generation unit 16 generates an ultrasonic image based on the reception frame output from the transmission / reception unit 14 according to the second imaging condition. The ultrasonic image acquired according to the second imaging condition is the second ultrasonic image.

[0057] The second imaging condition is an imaging condition different from the first imaging condition and is an imaging condition corresponding to the scanned cross-section recognized by the recognition unit 28. As described above, for each cross-section of the diagnostic site, an imaging condition suitable for imaging the cross-section (that is, an imaging condition suitable for ultrasonic examination of the cross-section) is determined in advance, and information indicating the imaging condition for each cross-section is stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device. The image quality adjustment unit 30 specifies the imaging condition associated with the scanned cross-section recognized by the recognition unit 28 (that is, the candidate estimated by the recognition unit 28), and outputs information indicating the imaging condition to the transmission / reception unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16. When the imaging condition is determined for each diagnostic site, the image quality adjustment unit 30 specifies the imaging condition associated with the site including the cross-section candidate estimated by the recognition unit 28, and outputs information indicating the imaging condition to the transmission / reception unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16.

[0058] The time T may be changed by a user such as a doctor or a medical technician. The time T may be determined based on the number of frames of the ultrasonic image. The time T may be determined for each site to be subjected to ultrasonic examination.

[0059] The reliability of the specific candidate is the reliability of the recognition of the cross-section candidate for which the highest reliability is obtained. For example, when a plurality of candidates are estimated by the recognition unit 28, the image quality adjustment unit 30 determines whether the reliability of the cross-section candidate having the highest reliability among the plurality of candidates satisfies the above threshold condition. The second imaging condition is an imaging condition corresponding to the specific candidate (that is, an imaging condition suitable for imaging the cross-section candidate having the highest reliability).

[0060] For example, the state where the reliability of a specific candidate satisfies the threshold condition means the state where the reliability of the specific candidate is included within the threshold range. The threshold range may be determined in advance or may be changed by the user. The threshold range is the range included between the upper threshold value A of the reliability and the lower threshold value B of the reliability. For example, when the state where the reliability of a specific candidate is included within the threshold range continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition. That is, when the state where the reliability of the candidate for the cross-section having the highest reliability is included within the threshold range continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the imaging condition suitable for imaging the candidate for the cross-section having the highest reliability.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2, a state where the reliability of a specific candidate is included within the threshold range will be described. FIG. 2 shows the temporal change of the reliability of cross-section recognition. The horizontal axis represents time. The vertical axis represents the reliability of cross-section recognition.

[0062] The temporal change of the reliability of the cross-section (hereinafter referred to as "cross-section α" for convenience) having the highest reliability is shown in FIG. 2. Also, the time T, the upper threshold value A, and the lower threshold value B are shown in FIG. 2.

[0063] The reliability of cross-section α fluctuates greatly in the time zone before time T, but then continues for time T and transitions between the upper threshold value A and the lower threshold value B. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the reliability transitions between the upper threshold value A and the lower threshold value B for a time equal to or greater than time T. When the state where the reliability of cross-section α is included within the threshold range (that is, between the upper threshold value A and the lower threshold value B) continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition suitable for imaging cross-section α.

[0064] As another example, the state where the reliability of a specific candidate satisfies the threshold condition means that the moving average value of the reliability of the specific candidate is included within the threshold range. The threshold range may be predetermined or may be changed by the user. The threshold range is the range included between the upper threshold value C of the moving average value and the lower threshold value D of the moving average value. For example, when the state where the moving average value of the reliability of a specific candidate is included within the threshold range continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition. That is, when the state where the moving average value of the reliability of the candidate of the cross-section having the highest reliability is included within the threshold range continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the imaging condition suitable for imaging the candidate of the cross-section having the highest reliability.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, a state where the moving average value of the reliability of a specific candidate is included within the threshold range will be described. FIG. 3 shows the time change of the moving average value of the reliability of cross-section recognition. The horizontal axis represents the time change. The vertical axis represents the moving average value of the reliability of cross-section recognition.

[0066] The time change of the moving average value of the reliability of the cross-section α having the highest reliability is shown in FIG. 3. Also, the time T, the upper threshold value C, the lower threshold value D, and the variation Δ are shown in FIG. 3. For example, the variation Δ is the variation of the moving average value and is about 10% of the moving average value. Of course, this value is only an example, and other values may be used as the variation Δ, or the variation Δ may be set by the user.

[0067] The moving average value of the reliability of the cross-section α fluctuates greatly in the time period before the time T, but then continues for the time T and transitions between the upper threshold value C and the lower threshold value D. Also, the variation of the moving average value is within the variation Δ. When the state where the moving average value of the reliability of the cross-section α is included within the threshold range (that is, between the upper threshold value C and the lower threshold value D) continues for the time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition.

[0068] Generally, when a user such as a doctor or a medical technician is searching for a cross-section suitable for an ultrasonic examination while taking a picture using the ultrasonic probe 12, the reliability of the cross-section estimation is considered unstable. For example, during the search for the cross-section, the user may take pictures while changing the position and angle of the ultrasonic probe 12. In this case, the fluctuation of the reliability calculated during the search becomes large, and the reliability is considered unstable. On the other hand, when a cross-section suitable for the ultrasonic examination is being taken, the user is considered to continue taking pictures without changing the position and angle of the ultrasonic probe 12. In this case, the fluctuation of the reliability calculated during the shooting becomes small, and the reliability is considered stable.

[0069] For example, when the state where the reliability of a specific candidate (for example, cross-section α) is within the threshold range continues for a time T, it is presumed that the reliability is stable. Similarly, when the state where the moving average value of the reliability of a specific candidate is within the threshold range continues for a time T, it is presumed that the reliability is stable. That is, in these cases, it is presumed that a cross-section suitable for the ultrasonic examination is being taken. Therefore, the acquisition unit acquires the second ultrasonic image according to the second shooting condition suitable for shooting of that cross-section. As a result, it becomes possible to increase the reliability of the cross-section recognition.

[0070] According to the present embodiment, a user such as a doctor or a medical technician can perform an ultrasonic examination using the second ultrasonic image suitable for the ultrasonic examination. As a result, it is not necessary for the user to set the shooting conditions suitable for the diagnosis site, and the labor and time for setting the shooting conditions can be reduced.

[0071] Hereinafter, application examples of the present embodiment will be described.

[0072] (Application Example 1: Abdominal Aorta) In the ultrasonic examination of the abdominal aorta, if the imaging conditions are not appropriate, the interior of the blood vessel, which is an important observation target, may not be depicted in the ultrasonic image (for example, a B-mode image) representing the cross-section of the abdominal aorta due to insufficient sensitivity or the like. As a result, there is a high possibility that necessary findings cannot be obtained. According to the present embodiment, when the state where the reliability of the cross-section of the abdominal aorta is included within the threshold range continues for time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging conditions suitable for imaging the cross-section. Alternatively, when the state where the moving average value of the reliability of the cross-section of the abdominal aorta is included within the threshold range continues for time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging conditions. Imaging conditions suitable for imaging the abdominal aorta (for example, imaging conditions in which the focal depth, aperture width, gain, etc. of the transmission beam are adjusted) are used as the second imaging conditions, and a second ultrasonic image is acquired. For example, the focal depth is set deeper, the aperture width is set wider, and the gain is set higher. By doing so, high sensitivity is obtained, and a second ultrasonic image in which the blood vessel is appropriately depicted is generated. Also, a second ultrasonic image with high reliability is generated.

[0073] (Application Example 2: Gallbladder) In the ultrasonic examination of the gallbladder, the way of occurrence of multiple reflections near the wall can vary depending on whether the subject is thin or fat. When the degree of multiple reflections is large, the reliability of the ultrasonic image representing the cross-section of the gallbladder may decrease. As a result, there is a risk of overlooking lesions inside the gallbladder. According to the present embodiment, when the state where the reliability of the cross-section of the gallbladder is included within the threshold range continues for time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging conditions suitable for imaging the cross-section. Alternatively, when the state where the moving average value of the reliability of the cross-section of the gallbladder is included within the threshold range continues for time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging conditions. Imaging conditions suitable for imaging the gallbladder (for example, imaging conditions in which the focal depth of the transmission beam, the frequency band of the transmitted ultrasonic wave, the image processing filter, etc. are adjusted) are used as the second imaging conditions, and a second ultrasonic image is acquired. For example, the focal depth is set shallower, and a narrow band is set as the frequency band of the transmitted ultrasonic wave. By doing so, multiple reflections can be reduced, and a second ultrasonic image with high reliability can be obtained.

[0074] (Application Example 3: Kidney, Liver) The cross-sections for the kidney and liver are cross-sections for observing the contrast ratio between the kidney and the liver at the same depth. Depending on the imaging conditions, the depiction of the kidney may be poor, and the reliability of the ultrasonic image may decrease. According to the present embodiment, when the state where the reliability of the cross-sections of the kidney and the liver is included within the threshold range continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to a second imaging condition suitable for imaging of the cross-section. Alternatively, when the state where the moving average value of the reliability of the cross-sections of the kidney and the liver is included within the threshold range continues for a time T, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition. Imaging conditions suitable for imaging of the kidney and the liver (for example, imaging conditions in which apodization for side lobe reduction, a reception band-pass filter, a gain dynamic range, and an image processing filter (for example, a smoothing filter) are adjusted) are used as the second imaging condition, and a second ultrasonic image is acquired. By doing so, the fine structure of the kidney can be depicted, and a highly reliable second ultrasonic image can be acquired. As a result, a user such as a doctor or a medical technician can observe the contrast ratio between the kidney and the liver.

[0075] Hereinafter, modified examples will be described.

[0076] (Modified Example 1) In Modified Example 1, the recognition unit 28 estimates one or a plurality of candidates for the scanning cross-section by performing cross-section recognition processing on the second ultrasonic image. Further, the recognition unit 28 calculates the reliability of recognition for each candidate for the scanning cross-section.

[0077] The image quality adjustment unit 30 compares the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image with the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image. For example, the image quality adjustment unit 30 compares the highest reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image (that is, the reliability of the cross-section having the highest reliability) with the highest reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image (that is, the reliability of the cross-section having the highest reliability).

[0078] When the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is higher than the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image, the image quality adjustment unit 30 outputs information indicating the second imaging condition to the transmission / reception unit 14, the image generation unit 16, or both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16. The acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition.

[0079] When the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is less than or equal to the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image, the image quality adjustment unit 30 maintains the imaging condition as the first imaging condition without changing the imaging condition. The acquisition unit continues ultrasonic imaging according to the first imaging condition.

[0080] According to Modification 1, since the ultrasonic image is acquired according to the imaging condition that can obtain a higher reliability, a more appropriate ultrasonic examination can be realized.

[0081] (Modification 2) In Modification 2, the control unit 32 causes the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image. For example, the control unit 32 causes the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image side by side. The control unit 32 may cause the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image by switching them. For example, when the user gives a switching instruction by operating the operation unit 22, the control unit 32 causes the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image by switching them. The control unit 32 may automatically switch the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image and cause the display unit 20 to display them each time a predetermined time elapses.

[0082] The user refers to the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image displayed on the display unit 20 and operates the operation unit 22 to select the first imaging condition or the second imaging condition. The acquisition unit acquires an ultrasonic image according to the imaging condition selected by the user.

[0083] For example, the control unit 32 causes the display unit 20 to display side by side an image for selecting the first imaging condition (e.g., an icon or button image representing the first imaging condition) and an image for selecting the second imaging condition (e.g., an icon or button image representing the second imaging condition). The user selects the imaging condition by pressing an icon, a button image, or the like.

[0084] As another example, the user may select the imaging condition by selecting the displayed ultrasonic image, and the image quality adjustment unit 30 may accept the selection. For example, when the user selects the first ultrasonic image by operating the operation unit 22, the image quality adjustment unit 30 accepts the selection and sets the imaging condition to the first imaging condition. When the user selects the second ultrasonic image by operating the operation unit 22, the image quality adjustment unit 30 accepts the selection and sets the imaging condition to the second imaging condition. The acquisition unit acquires an ultrasonic image according to the imaging condition set by the image quality adjustment unit 30.

[0085] According to Modification 2, since an ultrasonic image is obtained according to the imaging condition intended by the user, an ultrasonic image intended by the user is generated and presented to the user.

[0086] Note that when the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is lower than the reliability detected from the first ultrasonic image, the control unit 32 may not cause the display unit 20 to display the second ultrasonic image. In this case, when the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image becomes higher than the reliability detected from the first ultrasonic image, the control unit 32 causes the display unit 20 to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image.

[0087] (Modification 3) In Modification 3, the second imaging condition is a condition related to the image processing by the image generation unit 16. The image quality adjustment unit 30 outputs information indicating the second imaging condition to the image generation unit 16. The image generation unit 16 generates a second ultrasonic image by performing image processing according to the second imaging condition on the data (for example, a received frame) acquired according to the first imaging condition. The image processing according to the second imaging condition is image processing suitable for the estimated cross section, and for example, is image processing in which an image processing filter (for example, a smoothing filter) is adjusted.

[0088] According to Modification 3, by using the data acquired according to the first imaging condition and simply changing the condition of the image processing, a second ultrasonic image can be acquired.

[0089] The image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the analysis unit 26, and the control unit 32 can be realized by using hardware resources such as a processor or an electronic circuit. In the realization, devices such as a memory may be used as necessary. Further, the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the analysis unit 26, and the control unit 32 may be realized by, for example, a computer. That is, all or part of the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the analysis unit 26, and the control unit 32 may be realized by the cooperation of hardware resources such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory provided in the computer, and software (program) that defines the operations of the CPU and the like. The program is stored in the storage unit 24 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 or another storage device via a recording medium such as a CD or a DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. As another example, the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the analysis unit 26, and the control unit 32 may be realized by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like. Of course, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or the like may be used. The image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the analysis unit 26, and the control unit 32 may be realized by a single device or by a plurality of devices.

[0090] Note that the respective functions of the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the analysis unit 26, and the control unit 32 may be executed by a device other than the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 (for example, a personal computer, a server, or the like).

Explanation of Signs

[0091] 10 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, 12 Ultrasonic probe, 14 Transmission / reception unit, 16 Image generation unit, 26 Analysis unit, 28 Recognition unit, 30 Image quality adjustment unit, 32 Control unit.

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires a first ultrasonic image of a subject according to a first imaging condition; A recognition unit that performs a process of recognizing a cross section on the first ultrasonic image and calculates a reliability of the recognition; including; When the state where the reliability satisfies a threshold condition continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit acquires a second ultrasonic image of the subject according to a second imaging condition different from the first imaging condition and corresponding to the recognized cross section. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

2. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 1, When the state where the reliability is included within a threshold range continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit acquires the second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

3. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 1, When the state where the moving average value of the reliability is included within a threshold range continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition unit acquires the second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

4. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 1, The reliability is the reliability of recognition for the cross section where the highest reliability is obtained. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

5. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 1, The recognition unit further performs a process of recognizing a cross section on the second ultrasonic image and calculates a reliability of the recognition. When the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is higher than the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image, the acquisition unit acquires the second ultrasonic image according to the second imaging condition. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

6. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 5, When the reliability calculated from the second ultrasonic image is less than or equal to the reliability calculated from the first ultrasonic image, the acquisition unit continues ultrasonic imaging according to the first imaging condition. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

7. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 1, Further includes a control unit that displays the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image on a display. The acquisition unit acquires an ultrasonic image according to the imaging condition selected by the user from the first imaging condition and the second imaging condition. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

8. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Claim 1, The second imaging condition is a condition related to image processing, and the acquisition unit acquires the second ultrasonic image by performing image processing according to the second imaging condition on the data acquired according to the first imaging condition. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by the above.

9. A computer, an acquisition means for acquiring a first ultrasonic image of a subject according to a first imaging condition, a recognition means for performing a process of recognizing a cross section on the first ultrasonic image and calculating a reliability of the recognition, functioning as, when a state in which the reliability satisfies a threshold condition continues for a predetermined time, the acquisition means acquires a second ultrasonic image of the subject according to a second imaging condition different from the first imaging condition and corresponding to the recognized cross section. Program.

Images