Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

To simply and quickly examine an examination object based on an ultrasound image.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a display unit. The acquisition unit acquires ultrasound images of a plurality of frames by continuous scanning of a subject using an ultrasonic probe. The display unit distinguishably displays positions on a time axis, where ultrasound image groups have been acquired, for each ultrasound image group composed of two or more frames having a common examination object in the ultrasound images of the plurality of frames.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses have been used to confirm the growth of a fetus. For example, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus has detected inspection targets such as the biparietal diameter (BPD), abdominal circumference (AC), and femur length (FL) of a fetus based on an ultrasonic image. Then, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus has performed an estimation of the weight of the fetus or the like based on the detection result of the inspection target.

[0003] However, conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses have individually performed the drawing of an ultrasonic image, freezing, and the detection of an inspection target for each inspection target. For this reason, conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses have needed to repeat the operation of an ultrasonic probe on a mother and the operation of the apparatus main body for each inspection target. Therefore, it has been difficult for conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses to simply and quickly perform an inspection of an inspection target based on an ultrasonic image.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to simply and quickly perform an examination of an object to be examined based on an ultrasonic image. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. The problems corresponding to the respective effects of the respective configurations shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a display unit. The acquisition unit acquires a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images by continuously scanning a subject using an ultrasonic probe. The display unit displays, for each group of ultrasonic images composed of two or more frames in which the object to be examined is common, the position on the time axis at which the image group was acquired in a distinguishable manner.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be made only when necessary.

[0009] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes an ultrasonic probe 2, an input interface 3, an output interface 4, and a device main body 5. The ultrasonic probe 2, the input interface 3, and the output interface 4 are communicably connected to the device main body 5.

[0010] The ultrasonic probe 2 is a device that transmits ultrasonic waves to the subject P and receives reflected waves (echoes) of the ultrasonic waves from the subject P in order to acquire an ultrasonic image of the subject P. The subject P is, for example, a mother body.

[0011] The ultrasonic probe 2 has a plurality of vibrators. The plurality of vibrators generate ultrasonic waves based on a drive signal such as a voltage supplied from the apparatus main body 5. Further, the ultrasonic probe 2 receives a reflected wave from the subject P and converts it into an electrical signal. That is, the ultrasonic probe 2 scans the subject P with ultrasonic waves and receives the reflected wave from the subject P. Electrodes for supplying the drive signal and inputting the electrical signal of the reflected wave are provided on the vibrators. The vibrator may be composed of, for example, PZT (lead zirconate titanate) and PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride). On the surface of the vibrator, for example, an acoustic matching layer and an acoustic lens are arranged. On the back surface of the vibrator, for example, a backing material is arranged. The acoustic matching layer, also called a λ / 4 layer, is a layer for efficiently transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves by reducing the impedance difference between the vibrator and the living body. The acoustic lens is a structure for reducing the friction with the living body surface during inspection and for converging the ultrasonic beam to improve the slice resolution. The backing material is a structure for absorbing the ultrasonic waves going backward and shortening the pulse width of the ultrasonic waves going forward. The ultrasonic probe 2 is detachably connected to the apparatus main body 5.

[0012] When ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 2 to the subject P, the transmitted ultrasonic waves are successively reflected at the discontinuous surfaces of the acoustic impedance in the body tissues of the subject P and received by the plurality of vibrators of the ultrasonic probe 2 as reflected wave signals. The amplitude of the received reflected wave signal depends on the difference in acoustic impedance at the discontinuous surface where the ultrasonic wave is reflected. When the transmitted ultrasonic pulse is reflected at the surface of a moving blood flow or the heart wall, etc., the reflected wave signal undergoes a frequency shift depending on the velocity component of the moving object with respect to the ultrasonic wave transmission direction due to the Doppler effect.

[0013] The ultrasonic probe 2 is, for example, a three-dimensional probe that scans the subject P in three dimensions, that is, a mechanical 4D probe or a 2D array probe. The ultrasonic probe 2 may be a 1D array probe that scans the subject P in two dimensions.

[0014] The input interface 3 receives input operations of various instructions and information from an operator (i.e., a user). Specifically, the input interface 3 converts the input operations received from the operator into electrical signals and outputs them to the apparatus main body 5. For example, the input interface 3 is realized by a trackball, a switch button, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad that performs an input operation by touching an operation surface, a touch screen in which a display screen and a touch pad are integrated, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit, and the like. Note that the input interface 3 is not limited to those having physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the apparatus and outputs this electrical signal to a control circuit is also included in the example of the input interface 3.

[0015] The output interface 4 outputs various kinds of information. For example, the output interface 4 includes a display. The display converts information and image data sent from the apparatus main body 5 into display electrical signals and outputs them. The display is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, a touch panel, and the like. The output interface 4 may include a speaker. The speaker outputs a predetermined sound such as a beep sound to notify the operator of the processing status of the apparatus main body 5.

[0016] The apparatus main body 5 includes a transmission / reception circuit 51, a storage circuit 52, and a processing circuit 53.

[0017] The transmission / reception circuit 51 is a circuit that supplies a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 2 under the control of the processing circuit 53. The transmission / reception circuit 51 is also a circuit that performs various processes on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 2 to generate reflected wave data.

[0018] The transmission / reception circuit 51 has, for example, a pulse generator, a transmission delay unit, a pulsar, etc. to supply a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 2. The pulse generator repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming transmission ultrasonic waves at a predetermined rate frequency. Also, the transmission delay unit gives the delay time for each vibrator necessary for focusing the ultrasonic waves generated from the ultrasonic probe 2 in a beam shape and determining the transmission directivity, to each rate pulse generated by the pulse generator. The pulsar applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to the ultrasonic probe 2 at a timing based on the rate pulse given the delay time. That is, the transmission delay unit arbitrarily adjusts the transmission direction of the ultrasonic waves transmitted from the vibrator surface by changing the delay time given to each rate pulse.

[0019] Also, the transmission / reception circuit 51 has, for example, a preamplifier, an A / D (Analog / Digital) converter, a reception delay unit, an adder, etc. to perform various processes on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 2 and generate reflected wave data. The preamplifier amplifies the reflected wave signal for each channel. The A / D converter performs A / D conversion on the amplified reflected wave signal. The reception delay unit gives the delay time necessary for determining the reception directivity. The adder performs an addition process on the reflected wave signal processed by the reception delay unit to generate reflected wave data. By the addition process of the adder, the reflection component from the direction corresponding to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signal is emphasized, and an overall beam for ultrasonic transmission / reception is formed by the reception directivity and the transmission directivity. The form of the output signal from the transmission / reception circuit 51 can be selected in various forms, such as when it is a signal including phase information called an RF (Radio Frequency) signal, and when it is amplitude information after envelope detection processing.

[0020] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the transmission / reception circuit 51 is arranged in the apparatus main body 5. The transmission / reception circuit 51 is not limited to being arranged in the apparatus main body 5, and at least a part of it may be arranged in the ultrasonic probe 2.

[0021] The memory circuit 52 is a non-volatile memory device that stores various information, such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an optical disk, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and an integrated circuit memory device. The memory circuit 52 stores, for example, a control program for controlling the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 and various data used for the execution of this control program. In addition to HDDs and SSDs, etc., the memory circuit 52 may also be a drive device that reads and writes various information to and from portable storage media such as CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), and flash memories, or semiconductor memory elements such as RAMs (Random Access Memories).

[0022] The processing circuit 53 is a circuit that controls the operation of the entire ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 in response to an electrical signal of an input operation input from the input interface 3. For example, the processing circuit 53 includes an image generation function 531, which is an example of an acquisition unit, a confidence calculation function 532, a division function 533, a display control function 534, an appropriateness calculation function 535, and a determination function 536. The confidence calculation function 532 is an example of a confidence calculation unit. The division function 533 is an example of an identification unit. The display control function 534 is an example of a display unit. The appropriateness calculation function 535 is an example of an appropriateness calculation unit. The determination function 536 is an example of a determination unit.

[0023] Here, for example, each processing function executed by the image generation function 531, the confidence calculation function 532, the division function 533, the display control function 534, the appropriateness calculation function 535, and the determination function 536, which are components of the processing circuit 53 shown in FIG. 1, is recorded in the memory circuit 52 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuit 53 is, for example, a processor. The processor constituting the processing circuit 53 reads out each program from the memory circuit 52 and executes it to realize the functions corresponding to the read-out programs. In other words, the processing circuit 53 in the state where each program is read out has each function shown in the processing circuit 53 of FIG. 1. The processing circuit 53 may include a circuit other than the processor.

[0024] In addition, in FIG. 1, the case where each processing function of the image generation function 531, the confidence calculation function 532, the segmentation function 533, the display control function 534, the appropriateness calculation function 535, and the determination function 536 is realized by a single processing circuit 53 is shown, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the processing circuit 53 may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may execute each program to realize each processing function. Further, each processing function included in the processing circuit 53 may be appropriately distributed or integrated into a single or a plurality of processing circuits and realized.

[0025] The image generation function 531 generates an ultrasonic image in response to a scan of the subject P using the ultrasonic probe 2. More specifically, the image generation function 531 sequentially generates (i.e., acquires) ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames in response to a continuous scan of the subject P using the ultrasonic probe 2. The continuous scan is, for example, a scan in which a freeze operation for stopping the moving image of the ultrasonic image is not performed midway.

[0026] The image generation function 531, for example, receives reflected wave data from the transmission / reception circuit 51, performs logarithmic amplification, envelope detection processing, etc., and generates data (B-mode data) in which the signal intensity is represented by the brightness of the luminance. Further, the image generation function 531 frequency-analyzes velocity information from the reflected wave data received from the transmission / reception circuit 51, extracts blood flow, tissue, and contrast agent echo components due to the Doppler effect, and extracts data (Doppler data) in which moving body information such as velocity, variance, and power is extracted for multiple points. Further, the image generation function 531 may be capable of processing both two-dimensional reflected wave data and three-dimensional reflected wave data. That is, the image generation function 531 may generate two-dimensional B-mode data from two-dimensional reflected wave data and generate three-dimensional B-mode data from three-dimensional reflected wave data. Further, the image generation function 531 may generate two-dimensional Doppler data from two-dimensional reflected wave data and generate three-dimensional Doppler data from three-dimensional reflected wave data.

[0027] Then, the image generation function 531 generates a B-mode image in which the intensity of the reflected wave is represented by luminance from the B-mode data. Also, for example, the image generation function 531 generates a Doppler image in which blood flow information is visualized from the Doppler data. The Doppler image is velocity image data representing the average velocity of blood flow, dispersion image data representing the dispersion value of blood flow, power image data representing the power of blood flow, or image data combining these. Also, the image generation function 531 generates a color Doppler image in which blood flow information such as the average velocity, dispersion value, and power of blood flow is displayed in color as a Doppler image, or generates a Doppler image in which one piece of blood flow information is displayed in grayscale. Also, for example, the image generation function 531 can generate an M-mode image from the time-series data of the B-mode data on one scan line. Also, the image generation function 531 can generate a Doppler waveform in which the velocity information of blood flow and tissue is plotted along the time series from the Doppler data.

[0028] The confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence that the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target is included in the ultrasonic image generated by the image generation function 531. The inspection target can also be called a measurement item. The confidence can also be called a probability. The inspection target is, for example, the BPD, AC, and FL of the fetus in the mother's body, etc. That is, the inspection target is the dimension of the fetus. The inspection target may further include the head circumference (HC) and the humerus length (HL), etc. The confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence, for example, for each full frame. Alternatively, the confidence calculation function 532 may calculate the confidence for every predetermined number of frames.

[0029] The confidence calculation function 532 detects, for example, a part corresponding to the inspection target and the type and position of the structure constituting the part from the ultrasonic image. The confidence calculation function 532 may detect the type and position of the part and the structure by machine learning based on the learning data obtained by learning the part and the structure. The confidence calculation function 532 causes the storage circuit 52 to store the detected type and position of the part and the structure. The confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence that the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target is included in the ultrasonic image based on the feature amounts such as the type and position of the part and the structure stored in the storage circuit 52. The confidence calculation function 532 may calculate the confidence of the ultrasonic image of each frame by machine learning based on the learning data obtained by learning the ultrasonic image including the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target.

[0030] The splitting function 533 splits the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks indicating common attributes. Here, splitting means classifying the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into a plurality of blocks based on the common attributes among the ultrasonic images. Ultrasonic images having no common attributes are not classified into any block. In the first embodiment, the common attribute is a common inspection target (for example, BPD, AC, FL, etc.). That is, in the first embodiment, the splitting function 533 splits the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks indicating a common inspection target based on the confidence calculated by the confidence calculation function 532. In other words, the splitting function 533 identifies the inspection target based on the common attributes for each of the plurality of frames.

[0031] The display control function 534 displays on the display a block image indicating the blocks divided by the division function 533. That is, based on the identification result by the division function 533, the display control function 534 displays, for each ultrasonic image group composed of two or more frames in which the inspection target is common in a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images, the position on the time axis at which the image group was acquired in an identifiable manner. Thereby, since it can be configured to easily determine the ultrasonic image for performing the inspection for each inspection target (that is, for each ultrasonic image group), the inspection can be performed simply and quickly. The display control function 534 further displays on the display the ultrasonic image generated by the image generation function 531. The block image may be an image schematically showing the block. The display control function 534 may arrange and display a plurality of block images in time series. The display control function 534 may vary the display color of the block image according to the inspection target.

[0032] The appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates an appropriateness indicating the degree of appropriateness of the inspection for the inspection target for a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images obtained by continuously scanning the subject P using the ultrasonic probe 2. In the first embodiment, the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness for each block divided by the division function 533 (that is, for each inspection target). The appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness, for example, for each all frame. Alternatively, the appropriateness calculation function 535 may calculate the appropriateness for every predetermined number of frames (for example, at intervals of 5 frames). The appropriateness calculation function 535 may calculate an appropriateness proportional to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532. Alternatively, the appropriateness calculation function 535 may calculate an appropriateness proportional to the difference (that is, deviation) between the confidence level of the frame for which the appropriateness is calculated and the average value of the confidence levels within the block to which the frame belongs. Or, the appropriateness calculation function 535 may automatically detect (that is, automatically measure) the inspection target (that is, the measurement item) and calculate the appropriateness based on the result of the automatic detection. In this case, the appropriateness calculation function 535 may calculate an appropriateness proportional to the detected value.

[0033] Based on the fitness calculated by the fitness calculation function 535, the determination function 536 determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target from among ultrasonic images of multiple frames. For example, the determination function 536 determines that the ultrasonic image of the frame with the maximum fitness within the block is the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target corresponding to the block. The frame with the maximum fitness within the block may be a frame whose fitness exceeds a preset threshold value. Also, if the fitness exceeds the threshold value, the determination function 536 may determine that the ultrasonic images of two or more frames within the block are ultrasonic images for inspecting the inspection target and recommend them to the user. In this case, the user may select an arbitrary ultrasonic image from among the recommended ultrasonic images of two or more frames and use it for inspecting the inspection target.

[0034] The inspection of the inspection target is, for example, the inspection of the BPD, AC, and FL of the fetus in the mother's body. The inspection of the inspection target can also be replaced with the automatic detection (i.e., automatic measurement) of the inspection target that has already been performed by the fitness calculation function 535 and that was performed on the ultrasonic image of the frame with the maximum fitness. In this case, since the result of the automatic detection of the inspection target by the fitness calculation function 535 corresponds to the inspection result of the inspection target, it may not be necessary to repeat the inspection of the inspection target. In this case, the "determination of the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target" performed by the determination function 536 is synonymous with the "determination of the ultrasonic image of the frame with the maximum fitness on which the automatic detection of the inspection target was performed". Alternatively, the inspection of the inspection target may be an inspection performed separately from the automatic detection of the inspection target by the fitness calculation function 535. In this case, the inspection of the inspection target may be, for example, an inspection with higher accuracy than the automatic detection of the inspection target or an inspection with a different calculation method for the inspection target. The processing circuit 53 may further include a function for inspecting the inspection target and a function for estimating the weight of the fetus using the inspection result of the inspection target.

[0035] When the processing circuit 53 has a function of performing an inspection on an inspection target (hereinafter also referred to as an inspection function), the inspection function may automatically execute an inspection on the ultrasonic image determined by the determination function 536. Alternatively, the inspection function may perform an inspection on the inspection target in the block image C2 specified by the user on a strip-shaped image C1 (hereinafter also referred to as a timeline) representing the time axis shown in FIG. 7 and the like described later.

[0036] The display control function 534 displays an ultrasonic image for performing an inspection on the inspection target determined by the determination function 536 according to the operation of the operator. When the inspection function automatically executes the inspection, the display control function 534 may display the inspection result on the display according to the operation by the user. Also, the display control function 534 may display the ultrasonic image specified by the user on the timeline C1 on the display. That is, the ultrasonic image displayed on the display may jump from the currently displayed ultrasonic image according to a predetermined display order or the designation by the user to the ultrasonic image designated by the user on the timeline C1.

[0037] Next, an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment configured as described above will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Note that a series of steps shown in the flowchart of FIG. 2 are repeated as necessary.

[0038] First, as shown in FIG. 2, the image generation function 531 sequentially generates ultrasonic images for each frame in response to the operator continuously scanning the subject using the ultrasonic probe 2 (step S1). The display control function 534 sequentially displays the ultrasonic images for each frame generated by the image generation function 531 as a moving image on the display (step S1).

[0039] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a process of generating an ultrasonic image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the image generation function 531 generates ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames in response to a continuous scan (i.e., a single scan). In the example shown in FIG. 3, the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames include a series of frames of ultrasonic images corresponding to the BPD, a series of frames of ultrasonic images corresponding to the AC, and a series of frames of ultrasonic images corresponding to the FL.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a process of displaying an ultrasonic image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the display control function 534 sequentially displays an ultrasonic image corresponding to the BPD, an ultrasonic image corresponding to the AC, and an ultrasonic image corresponding to the FL over time. The ultrasonic image corresponding to the BPD includes a cross section corresponding to the BPD, i.e., a measurement cross section capable of measuring the BPD. The ultrasonic image corresponding to the AC includes a cross section corresponding to the AC, i.e., a measurement cross section capable of measuring the AC. The ultrasonic image corresponding to the FL includes a cross section corresponding to the FL, i.e., a measurement cross section capable of measuring the FL.

[0041] After ultrasonic images for a series of a predetermined number of frames are generated and displayed, as shown in FIG. 2, the confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence of the ultrasonic image for each frame (step S2).

[0042] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a process of calculating the confidence in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence corresponding to the BPD, i.e., the confidence that the measurement cross section of the BPD is included in the ultrasonic image. Further, the confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence corresponding to the AC, i.e., the confidence that the measurement cross section of the AC is included in the ultrasonic image. Further, the confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence corresponding to the FL, i.e., the confidence that the measurement cross section of the FL is included in the ultrasonic image.

[0043] After the confidence level is calculated, as shown in FIG. 2, the segmentation function 533 performs blocking to segment the ultrasonic image into blocks based on the calculated confidence level (step S3).

[0044] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a blocking process of an ultrasonic image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the segmentation function 533 approximates the confidence level to a smooth spline curve by interpolating the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532 with an nth-degree polynomial. By approximating the confidence level to a curve, slightly discrete frames of the same inspection target can be grouped into one block (that is, an ultrasonic image group composed of two or more frames including a common inspection target). After approximating the confidence level to a curve, the segmentation function 533 compares the curve-approximated confidence level with a confidence level threshold. Then, the segmentation function 533 performs blocking by classifying ultrasonic images corresponding to a series of frame groups having a confidence level equal to or higher than the threshold into the same block. Specifically, the segmentation function 533 classifies ultrasonic images corresponding to a series of frame groups having a confidence level equal to or higher than the threshold corresponding to BPD into the BPD block "BPD Block1". Further, the segmentation function 533 classifies ultrasonic images corresponding to a series of frame groups having a confidence level equal to or higher than the threshold corresponding to AC into the AC block "AC Block1". Further, the segmentation function 533 classifies ultrasonic images corresponding to a series of frame groups having a confidence level equal to or higher than the threshold corresponding to FL into the FL block "FL Block1". Further, the segmentation function 533 classifies ultrasonic images corresponding to another series of frame groups having a confidence level equal to or higher than the threshold corresponding to FL into another FL block "FL Block2".

[0045] After blocking is performed, as shown in FIG. 2, the display control function 534 displays the block image (step S4). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display process of a block image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the display control function 534 displays a schematic image C schematically showing blocks in a screen A including the ultrasonic image B. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the ultrasonic image B is an image corresponding to FL. The schematic image C of the block includes a strip-shaped image C1 representing the time axis, a rectangular block image C2 representing the block main body superimposed on the image C1, and a frame C3 with the maximum confidence level on the block image C2. In other words, the display control function 534 displays the inspection target (BPD, AC, FL, etc.) represented by the ultrasonic image group and the position (block) on the time axis of the ultrasonic image group in a distinguishable manner. Further, the display control function 534 displays the position on the time axis of the ultrasonic image (frame C3) for performing the inspection in a distinguishable manner. Note that the images C1 and C3 other than the block image C2 may be omitted from display. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the display control function 534 further displays the frame number "#511" of the final frame in the schematic image C of the block. Also, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the display control function 534 further displays a mark D indicating the frame corresponding to the ultrasonic image B in the schematic image C of the block. Also, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the display control function 534 further displays a measurement caliper E on the area where automatic detection (i.e., automatic measurement) of the inspection target by the appropriateness calculation function 535 is performed.

[0046] After the block image is displayed, as shown in FIG. 2, the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness of each frame for each block (step S5). FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the process of calculating the appropriateness in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the appropriateness calculation function 535 performs automatic detection (i.e., automatic measurement) of the inspection target on the cross-section F corresponding to the inspection target in the ultrasonic image B. Then, the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness of each frame based on the detection result of the automatic detection. For example, the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness of the frame with the detection result of FL being 55 mm to be a value larger than the appropriateness of the frame with the detection result of FL being 15 mm.

[0047] After the appropriateness is calculated, as shown in FIG. 2, the determination function 536 determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target based on the calculated appropriateness (step S6). For example, the determination function 536 determines the ultrasonic image of the frame with the maximum appropriateness within the block as the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target.

[0048] After the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target is determined, the display control function 534 determines whether a freeze operation has been performed by the operator (step S7).

[0049] If a freeze operation has been performed (step S7: YES), the display control function 534 displays the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target of one block (step S8). One block is, for example, the oldest or latest block in time series. On the other hand, if a freeze operation has not been performed (step S7: NO), the image generation function 531 generates and displays a new ultrasonic image (step S1).

[0050] After displaying the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target of one block, the display control function 534 determines whether a confirmation operation has been performed by the operator (step S9). The confirmation operation is an operation to confirm that the displayed ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target is to be used for the inspection.

[0051] When the confirmation operation is performed (step S9: YES), the display control function 534 determines the presence or absence of the next block for which the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target is not displayed (step S10). On the other hand, when the confirmation operation has not been performed (step S9: NO), the display control function 534 repeats the determination of whether the confirmation operation has been performed (step S9).

[0052] When there is a next block (step S10: YES), the display control function 534 displays the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target of the next block (step S8). On the other hand, when there is no next block (step S10: NO), the display control function 534 ends the process.

[0053] As described above, in the first embodiment, the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates an appropriateness indicating the degree of appropriateness of the inspection for the inspection target for a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images obtained by continuously scanning the subject P using the ultrasonic probe 2. Further, the determination function 536 determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target based on the appropriateness calculated by the appropriateness calculation function 535. More specifically, the determination function 536 determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target from among a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images.

[0054] Thereby, the operator does not need to repeat the operation of the ultrasonic probe 2 on the subject P and the freeze operation of the apparatus main body 5 for each inspection target. Therefore, the inspection of the inspection target based on the ultrasonic image can be performed simply and quickly.

[0055] Also, in the first embodiment, the splitting function 533 splits a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images into blocks showing common attributes. Further, the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness for each block split by the splitting function 533. Also, the determination function 536 determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target based on the appropriateness calculated by the appropriateness calculation function 535 for each block split (i.e., identified) by the splitting function 533.

[0056] As a result, for each block, the suitability can be efficiently calculated, and the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target can be efficiently determined. Therefore, the inspection of the inspection target based on the ultrasonic image can be performed more simply and quickly.

[0057] Also, in the first embodiment, the common attribute indicated by the block is a common inspection target. Further, the confidence calculation function 532 calculates the confidence that the cross section corresponding to the inspection target is included in the ultrasonic image. Also, the division function 533 divides the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks indicating a common inspection target based on the confidence calculated by the confidence calculation function 532.

[0058] As a result, the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames can be divided (i.e., classified) into appropriate blocks indicating a common inspection target based on the confidence. Therefore, the inspection of the inspection target based on the ultrasonic image can be performed more appropriately.

[0059] Also, in the first embodiment, the display control function 534 displays a block image indicating the block divided by the division function 533.

[0060] As a result, the location of the cross section corresponding to the inspection target in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames can be visualized, so that the convenience can be improved.

[0061] Also, in the first embodiment, the suitability calculation function 535 may calculate the suitability based on the detection value (i.e., the measurement value) of the inspection target.

[0062] As a result, the suitability can be appropriately calculated.

[0063] Also, in the first embodiment, the block image is an image schematically showing the block. The display control function 534 arranges and displays a plurality of block images in time series.

[0064] As a result, the operator can easily grasp the location of the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target, so that the convenience can be further improved. In addition, the display control function 534 may display, together with each block image, the frame C3 with the highest confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 534 on each block image. As a result, the operator can easily grasp the location of the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target, so that the convenience can be further improved.

[0065] Also, in the first embodiment, the display control function 534 may vary the display color of the block image according to the inspection target.

[0066] As a result, for each type of inspection target, the location of the cross-section with respect to the inspection target can be visually and easily understood by the operator, so that the convenience can be further improved.

[0067] Also, in the first embodiment, the display control function 534 displays the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target determined by the determination function 536 according to the operation of the operator.

[0068] As a result, by visualizing the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target, the convenience can be improved.

[0069] A plurality of modifications shown below can be applied to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0070] (First Modification of the First Embodiment) First, regarding the first modification of the first embodiment in which a block image indicating the first frame number and the last frame number in the block is displayed, the differences from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display process of a block image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0071] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the display control function 534 displays, as a plurality of block images C2, an image including the first frame number and the last frame number within the block. Specifically, the display control function 534 displays the first frame number "#5" and the last frame number "#20" of the block "BPD Block1" in association with the block image C2 of the block "BPD Block1". Also, the display control function 534 displays the first frame number "#30" and the last frame number "#50" of the block "AC Block1" in association with the block image C2 of the block "AC Block1". Further, the display control function 534 displays the first frame number "#70" and the last frame number "#80" of the block "FL Block1" in association with the block image C2 of the block "FL Block1". Moreover, the display control function 534 displays the first frame number "#85" and the last frame number "#100" of the block "FL Block2" in association with the block image C2 of the block "FL Block2".

[0072] As described above, in the first modification of the first embodiment, the block image is an image showing the first frame number and the last frame number within the block.

[0073] Thereby, the frame numbers of the cross sections corresponding to the inspection target can be visualized, so that the convenience can be further improved.

[0074] (Second Modification of the First Embodiment) Next, regarding the second modification of the first embodiment that performs blocking in real time, the differences from the above-described embodiments will be mainly described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display process of a block image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second modification of the first embodiment.

[0075] In the above-described embodiment, an example of blocking ultrasonic images after a series of ultrasonic images for a predetermined number of frames are generated and displayed has been described. In contrast, in the second modification of the first embodiment, the splitting function 533 splits ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks in real time during scanning. The display control function 534 displays block images together with ultrasonic images in real time during scanning. In the example shown in FIG. 10, each time the classification of ultrasonic images into blocks is updated according to the progress of scanning (i.e., the passage of time), the display control function 534 adds and displays the block image C2 of the updated block. Note that the calculation of the appropriateness by the appropriateness calculation function 535 and the determination of the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target by the determination function 536 may also be performed in real time.

[0076] As described above, in the second modification of the first embodiment, the splitting function 533 splits ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks in real time during scanning. Also, the display control function 534 displays block images together with ultrasonic images in real time during scanning.

[0077] Thereby, since the change of the inspection target according to the progress of scanning can be visualized, the convenience can be improved.

[0078] (Third Modification of the First Embodiment) Next, a third modification of the first embodiment in which thumbnails of ultrasonic images for each block are displayed will be described centering on the differences from the above-described embodiments. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a thumbnail display step in the operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third modification of the first embodiment.

[0079] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the block image is an image schematically showing a block has been described. In contrast, in the third modification of the first embodiment, the block image is a thumbnail of an ultrasonic image for each block. The thumbnail is, for example, an image obtained by reducing an ultrasonic image (i.e., a still image) of the first frame for each block.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 11, after the ultrasonic image is blocked, the display control function 534 displays, in a selectable manner, thumbnails corresponding to the respective blocks by an operation of the operator (step S4A). After displaying the thumbnails, the display control function 534 determines whether a thumbnail has been selected by an operation of the operator (step S21).

[0081] When a thumbnail is selected (step S21: YES), the display control function 534 displays the ultrasonic image corresponding to the selected thumbnail (step S22). That is, the display control function 534 reproduces a plurality of ultrasonic images belonging to the selected thumbnail and displays them as a moving image. On the other hand, when a thumbnail is not selected (step S21: NO), the appropriateness calculation function 535 calculates the appropriateness (step S5).

[0082] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the display control function 534 displays, in a selectable manner, a thumbnail G1 corresponding to FL, a thumbnail G2 corresponding to AC, and a thumbnail G3 corresponding to BPD. When the selection of the thumbnail G1, for example, is received by the input interface 3, the display control function 534 reproduces the ultrasonic image B belonging to the selected thumbnail G1. The display control function 534 may display an image G4 indicating that the thumbnail G1 has been selected, in association with the selected thumbnail G1.

[0083] As described above, in the third modification of the first embodiment, the block image is a thumbnail of an ultrasonic image for each block. Further, the display control function 534 displays the thumbnails in a selectable manner by an operation of the operator, and displays the ultrasonic image corresponding to the thumbnail selected by the operation of the operator.

[0084] This enables visualization of the location of the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target in ultrasonic images of multiple frames. Also, an ultrasonic image having a cross-section corresponding to a desired inspection target can be selected and displayed. This can further improve convenience.

[0085] (Fourth Modification of the First Embodiment) Next, a fourth modification of the first embodiment for visualizing the detected inspection target will be described centering on the differences from the above-described embodiments. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing check boxes of the detected inspection target in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment.

[0086] In the example shown in FIG. 13, the display control function 534 displays a check box G5 indicating whether or not automatic detection (i.e., automatic measurement) of FL has been performed on the thumbnail G1 corresponding to FL. Also, the display control function 534 displays a check box G6 indicating whether or not automatic detection of AC has been performed on the thumbnail G2 corresponding to AC. Also, the display control function 534 displays a check box G7 indicating whether or not automatic detection of BPD has been performed on the thumbnail G3 corresponding to BPD.

[0087] According to the example shown in FIG. 13, the operator can easily grasp the inspection targets (AC and BPD in FIG. 13) for which automatic detection has been performed and the inspection targets (FL in FIG. 13) for which automatic detection has not yet been performed based on the check boxes G5, G6, and G7. This can further improve convenience.

[0088] (Fifth Modification of the First Embodiment) Next, a fifth modification of the first embodiment for varying the display color of the block image according to the confidence level will be described centering on the differences from the above-described embodiments. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the display process of the block image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the fifth modification of the first embodiment.

[0089] In the fifth modification of the first embodiment, the display control function 534 varies the display color of the block image according to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the display control function 534 displays the block image C2 in gradation according to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532. For example, the display control function 534 displays the block image C2 in gradation such that the display color gradually becomes darker as it approaches the frame with the maximum confidence level (i.e., the image C3).

[0090] As described above, in the fifth modification of the first embodiment, the display control function 534 varies the display color of the block image according to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532. Thereby, the confidence level can be visualized, so that the convenience can be further improved. Further, the display control function 534 displays the block image in gradation according to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532. Thereby, the change in the confidence level within the block can be visualized, so that the convenience can be further improved.

[0091] (Sixth Modification of the First Embodiment) Next, a sixth modification of the first embodiment in which a graph of the confidence level is displayed will be described focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiments. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a display process of a graph indicating the confidence level in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the sixth modification of the first embodiment.

[0092] In the sixth modification of the first embodiment, the display control function 534 further displays a graph indicating the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532 in association with the block image. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the display control function 534 displays a graph H indicating the change in the confidence level within the block in association with the schematic image C of the block.

[0093] As described above, in the sixth modification of the first embodiment, the display control function 534 displays a graph indicating the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532.

[0094] As a result, the operator can easily grasp the change in confidence level within the block, so that the convenience can be further improved.

[0095] (The seventh modification of the first embodiment) Next, regarding the seventh modification of the first embodiment in which a plurality of inspection targets simultaneously included in the ultrasonic image are individually blocked, the differences from the above-described embodiments will be mainly described. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display process of a block image in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the seventh modification of the first embodiment.

[0096] In the seventh modification of the first embodiment, when a plurality of inspection targets are simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames, the splitting function 533 splits the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into blocks for each of the plurality of inspection targets. Then, the display control function 534 displays the block images for each of the plurality of inspection targets by overlapping or arranging them with each other.

[0097] In the example shown in FIG. 16, FL and AC are simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames. That is, across a series of a plurality of frames, a cross section corresponding to FL and a cross section corresponding to AC are included in the ultrasonic image of the same frame. Since FL and AC are simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames, the splitting function 533 blocks the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames individually for FL and AC. The display control function 534 displays side by side the block image C2 of the block “FL Block1” corresponding to FL and the block image C2 of the block “AC Block1” corresponding to AC.

[0098] As described above, in the seventh modification of the first embodiment, when a plurality of inspection targets are simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames, the splitting function 533 splits the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into blocks for each of the plurality of inspection targets. The display control function 534 displays the block images for each of the plurality of inspection targets by overlapping or arranging them with each other.

[0099] Accordingly, even when a plurality of inspection targets are included simultaneously, the location of the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames can be visualized, thus further improving convenience.

[0100] (The eighth modification of the first embodiment) FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a thumbnail display process in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the eighth modification of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, the display control function 534 may display, superimposed, the thumbnail G1 of the block “FL Block1” corresponding to FL and the thumbnail G1 of the block “FL Block2” corresponding to FL, which are simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames. In FIG. 17, the display control function 534 may compare the appropriateness of the optimal cross-sections of each block simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames. Alternatively, the display control function 534 may compare the average value of the appropriateness of all frames of each block simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames. Then, based on the result of the comparison, the display control function 534 may change the display order of the thumbnails of the blocks. For example, the display control function 534 may display the thumbnail of the block with the highest appropriateness of the optimal cross-section or the thumbnail of the block with the highest average value of the appropriateness at the forefront.

[0101] Also in the example shown in FIG. 17, the location of the cross-section corresponding to the inspection target in the ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames can be visualized as in FIG. 16, thus further improving convenience.

[0102] (The ninth modification of the first embodiment) Next, a ninth modification of the first embodiment in which a block is reduced based on the detected value of the inspection target will be described centering on the differences from the above-described embodiments. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the ninth modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a block reduction process in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the ninth modification of the first embodiment.

[0103] In the ninth modification of the first embodiment, the division function 533 reduces the block based on the detected value (i.e., the measured value) of the inspection target included in the block. Then, the fitness calculation function 535 calculates the fitness for the block reduced by the division function 533.

[0104] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 18, the division function 533 automatically detects (i.e., automatically measures) the inspection target for each block (step S31).

[0105] After the automatic detection, the division function 533 calculates an index for reducing the block based on the detection result (step S32). For example, the division function 533 may calculate, as an index, the difference between the detection result and a reference value of the inspection target (e.g., the average value of the inspection target of a fetus at a certain gestational week) acquired in advance. Alternatively, the division function 533 may calculate, as an index, the variance or standard deviation within the block of the detection results of each frame.

[0106] After calculating the index, the division function 533 reduces the block based on the calculated index (step S33). For example, the division function 533 reduces the block so that only the frames with the index below the threshold value are included in the block. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the division function 533 reduces the block "AC Block1" so that only the frames with the index below the threshold value are included in the block "AC Block1" corresponding to AC.

[0107] After the block is reduced, as shown in FIG. 18, the fitness calculation function 535 calculates the fitness for the reduced block (step S5).

[0108] As described above, in the ninth modification of the first embodiment, the division function 533 reduces the block based on the measured value of the inspection target included in the block. Also, the fitness calculation function 535 calculates the fitness for the block reduced by the division function 533.

[0109] As a result, the fitness can be appropriately calculated based on the reduced block based on the measurement result of the inspection target, so that the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target can be appropriately determined. Thereby, the inspection of the inspection target based on the ultrasonic image can be performed more appropriately.

[0110] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment in which the ultrasonic image of an appropriate cross section is switched according to the operation of the operator will be described focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment. FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 20, the processing circuit 53 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment further includes a replacement function 537 in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment. The replacement function 537 is an example of a replacement unit.

[0112] The replacement function 537 replaces the ultrasonic image of the frame selected by the operator from the block images displayed by the display control function 534 with the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target determined by the determination function 536 as the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target.

[0113] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 21, after the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target is determined by the determination function 536, the replacement function 537 determines whether or not a frame in the block image has been selected by the operator (step S41).

[0114] When a frame is selected (step S41: YES), the replacement function 537 replaces the ultrasonic image of the selected frame with the ultrasonic image determined by the determination function 536 as the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target (step S42). On the other hand, when a frame is not selected (step S41: NO), the display control function 534 determines the presence or absence of a freeze operation (step S7).

[0115] As described above, in the second embodiment, the replacement function 537 replaces the ultrasonic image of the frame selected by the operator from among the block images displayed by the display control function 534, as the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target, with the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target determined by the determination function 536.

[0116] Thereby, since the ultrasonic image according to the operator's desire can also be used for the inspection of the inspection target, the degree of freedom in the inspection of the inspection target can be improved.

[0117] (Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment in which ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames are divided into blocks showing a common time phase based on time will be described centering on the differences from the above-described embodiments. In the above-described embodiments, an example in which ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames are divided into blocks showing a common inspection target as an example of a common attribute has been described. On the other hand, the division function 533 in the third embodiment divides ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks showing a common time phase as another example of a common attribute.

[0118] FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 22, the division function 533 blocks the ultrasonic image based on time information (step S3A). FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a block formation process of ultrasonic images in the operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the division function 533 divides ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames generated by continuous scanning of a subject in contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination into blocks showing a common time phase (Arterial Phase: AP, Portal Venous Phase: PVP, or Late Phase: LP). Further, in the example shown in FIG. 23, for each block divided for each time phase based on time information, the frame having the maximum confidence level of the inspection target such as a lesion calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532 is specified.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 22, when a freeze operation is performed (step S7: YES), the display control function 534 displays an ultrasonic image for inspecting each block determined by the determination function 536 (step S8A). The ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target may be determined based on, for example, the above-described confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation function 532. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a display process of an ultrasonic image for inspecting an inspection target in an operation example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 24, the display control function 534 displays an ultrasonic image I for inspecting the inspection target at each time phase. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 24, the display control function 534 displays, as a schematic image C schematically showing the blocks, an image including a block image C2 for each time information and a frame C3 having the maximum confidence level on each block image C2.

[0120] As described above, in the third embodiment, the splitting function 533 splits ultrasonic images of a plurality of frames into blocks indicating a common time phase based on time. Thereby, the degree of freedom of the inspection of the inspection target using the ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target can be improved.

[0121] Note that the term "processor" used in the above description means, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or a circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in a storage circuit. Note that instead of storing the program in the storage circuit, the program may be directly incorporated into the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuit. Note that the processor is not limited to being configured as a single processor circuit, and a plurality of independent circuits may be combined to form one processor to realize its functions. Further, a plurality of components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize its functions.

[0122] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, inspection of an inspection target based on an ultrasonic image can be performed simply and quickly.

[0123] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and method described in this specification can be implemented in various other forms. Also, various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made to the forms of the apparatus and method described in this specification without departing from the gist of the invention. The appended claims and equivalents thereof are intended to include such forms and modifications included in the scope and gist of the invention.

Description of Symbols

[0124] 1 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 2 Ultrasonic probe 532 Confidence level calculation function 533 Division function 534 Display control function 535 Appropriateness calculation function 536 Decision function 537 Replacement function

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires a plurality of frames of ultrasonic images by continuously scanning a subject using an ultrasonic probe; A display unit that displays, in a distinguishable manner, the position on the time axis at which an ultrasonic image group composed of two or more frames in which the inspection target is common in the plurality of frames of ultrasonic images was acquired, for each ultrasonic image group; and An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

2. Comprising an identification unit that identifies an inspection target for each of the plurality of frames, The display unit displays, in a distinguishable manner, the position on the time axis at which an ultrasonic image group composed of two or more frames in which the inspection target is common was acquired, for each ultrasonic image group, based on the identification result by the identification unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

3. A fitness calculation unit that calculates a fitness indicating the appropriateness of the inspection for the frame in which the inspection target is identified; A determination unit that determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target based on the fitness calculated by the fitness calculation unit; and The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The identification unit identifies the inspection target by dividing the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into blocks indicating a common attribute, The fitness calculation unit calculates the fitness for each of the blocks divided by the identification unit, The determination unit determines an ultrasonic image for inspecting the inspection target based on the fitness calculated by the fitness calculation unit for each of the blocks divided by the identification unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The common attribute is a common inspection target, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further comprises a confidence calculation unit that calculates a confidence level indicating that a cross-section corresponding to the inspection target is included in the ultrasonic image, The identification unit divides the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into the blocks indicating the common inspection target based on the confidence level calculated by the confidence calculation unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The common attribute is a common phase, The identification unit divides the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into the blocks indicating the common phase based on time. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

7. The display unit displays, in a distinguishable manner, the position on the time axis by displaying a block image indicating the block divided by the identification unit. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5.

8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit varies the display color of the block image according to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation unit.

9. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the display unit displays the block image in gradation according to the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation unit.

10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising a replacement unit that replaces, with the ultrasonic image for examining the examination target determined by the determination unit, the ultrasonic image of the frame selected by the user from among the block images displayed by the display unit as the ultrasonic image for examining the examination target.

11. The identification unit divides the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into the blocks in real time during the scan, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit displays the block image in real time together with the ultrasonic image during the scan.

12. When a plurality of the examination targets are simultaneously included in the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames, the identification unit divides the ultrasonic images of the plurality of frames into the blocks for each of the plurality of examination targets, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit displays the block images for each of the plurality of examination targets overlapping or side by side with each other.

13. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit further displays a graph indicating the confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation unit.

14. The identification unit reduces the block based on the detection value of the examination target included in the block, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the appropriateness calculation unit calculates the appropriateness for the block reduced by the identification unit.

15. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the appropriateness calculation unit calculates the appropriateness based on the detection value of the examination target.

16. The block image is an image schematically showing the block, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit arranges and displays a plurality of the block images in time series, and displays, on each block image, the frame having the maximum confidence level calculated by the confidence level calculation unit.

17. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the display unit varies the display color of the block image according to the examination target.

18. The block image is a thumbnail of the ultrasonic image for each block, The display unit displays the thumbnail so as to be selectable by a user operation, and displays the ultrasonic image corresponding to the thumbnail selected by the user operation. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7.

19. The block image is an image showing a first frame number and a last frame number within the block. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7.

20. The display unit displays an ultrasonic image for performing an examination of the inspection target determined by the determination unit according to a user operation. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7.

21. The subject is a pregnant woman, The inspection target is the size of a fetus in the pregnant woman. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

Images