Ultrasound diagnostic device, image storage method, and program

Abstract

To automatically store ultrasound image data during ultrasound examinations involving deformation of tissues of interest.SOLUTION: An ultrasound diagnostic device 100 includes an image generation unit 14, an object detection unit 15, a deformation detection unit 16, a memory unit 31, an image storage unit 17, and a control unit 18. The image generation unit 14 generates ultrasound image data from the received signals of an ultrasound probe 2 that transmits and receives ultrasound. The object detection unit 15 detects one or more tissues of interest from the ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data. The deformation detection unit 16 detects deformation of the tissues of interest. The memory unit 31 stores the ultrasound image data. The image storage unit 17 and the control unit 18 store the ultrasound image data in the memory unit 31 on the basis of the deformation detection results.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, an image storage method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus that uses an ultrasound probe to irradiate ultrasound into the interior of a subject, receives and analyzes the reflected waves, and displays an ultrasound image of the interior of the subject. The subject is, for example, a living patient.

[0003] DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) testing (ultrasound testing for DVT) using an ultrasound diagnostic device is known. DVT is a condition in which blood clots in the deep veins of the limbs (usually the calf or thigh) or pelvis. DVT is the leading cause of pulmonary embolism. DVT is caused by conditions that impair venous return, cause endothelial damage or dysfunction, or cause a hypercoagulable state. DVT can be asymptomatic. However, DVT can also cause pain and swelling in the limbs, and pulmonary embolism is one of the direct complications. DVT is diagnosed through a medical history and physical examination and confirmed by objective testing (typically duplex or B-mode ultrasound). B-mode ultrasound is used to screen blood vessels such as veins.

[0004] If DVT is suspected based on the results of the initial ultrasound examination for DVT, a D-dimer test is used. D-dimer is a substance produced when fibrin, a substance found in blood clots, is dissolved. Examining the amount of D-dimer in the blood can determine whether a blood clot has formed or may have formed in the body. A negative D-dimer test result is useful for ruling out DVT. However, a positive result is nonspecific, and further ultrasound examination is required to confirm the diagnosis of DVT. DVT is treated with anticoagulants. With prompt and adequate treatment, the prognosis is generally good. A common long-term complication is venous insufficiency, which may be accompanied by postphlebitic syndrome.

[0005] B-mode ultrasound for DVT identifies thrombi by directly visualizing the lining of veins and demonstrating abnormal compressibility. This ultrasound test has a sensitivity of over 90% and a specificity of over 95% for femoral and popliteal vein thrombosis, but is less accurate for iliac or calf vein thrombosis. To identify a thrombus, a physician or other user must apply pressure to the subject.

[0006] In an ultrasound examination for DVT, an ultrasound diagnostic device is known that identifies and displays an ultrasound image with a maximum compression index value from multiple B-mode ultrasound images (see Patent Document 1). The identified ultrasound image with the maximum compression index value is displayed alongside ultrasound images with other compression index values. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4945300 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] In ultrasound examinations for DVT, the user must use both hands to apply pressure, making it difficult to save ultrasound image data. For example, the user must hold the subject's leg with one hand and apply pressure to the subject with the ultrasound probe using the other. The ultrasound diagnostic device in Patent Document 1 automatically displays identified ultrasound images, but the ultrasound image data must be saved manually. This places a heavy burden on the user, potentially affecting the productivity of ultrasound examinations.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to automatically store ultrasound image data in an ultrasound examination that involves deformation of a tissue of interest such as a blood vessel. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to solve the above problem, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the invention described in claim 1 comprises: an image generating unit that generates ultrasound image data from a reception signal of an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound; an object detection unit that detects one or more tissues of interest from an ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data; a deformation detection unit that detects deformation of the tissue of interest; a storage unit that stores ultrasound image data; and a control unit that stores the ultrasound image data in the storage unit based on the detection result of the deformation.

[0011] The invention described in claim 2 is the ultrasound diagnostic device described in claim 1, The control unit displays the stored ultrasound image data on the display unit.

[0012] The invention described in claim 3 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 1, The deformation is a cross-sectional deformation of the tissue of interest.

[0013] The invention described in claim 4 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 3, The tissue of interest is a vein.

[0014] The invention described in claim 5 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 3, The object detector detects two or more of the structures of interest.

[0015] The invention described in claim 6 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 3, The deformation of the cross section of the tissue of interest is a reduction.

[0016] The invention described in claim 7 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 6, The object detection unit detects the shrinkage of the cross section of the tissue of interest by the area or aspect ratio of the cross section.

[0017] The invention described in claim 8 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 1, The control unit stores the ultrasound image data at the timing when the deformation is detected in the storage unit.

[0018] The invention described in claim 9 is the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The control unit displays the timing at which the deformation is detected on the display unit using a display element.

[0019] The invention described in claim 10 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 9, The control unit arranges the timing display elements in chronological order and displays them on the display unit.

[0020] The invention described in claim 11 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 9, The control unit displays the display element at the timing when the deformation was last detected on the display unit in an emphasized manner.

[0021] The invention described in claim 12 is the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus described in claim 1, The control unit causes the audio output unit to output audio at the timing when the deformation is detected.

[0022] The image storage method of the invention described in claim 13 comprises: generating ultrasound image data from a received signal of an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound; detecting one or more tissues of interest from an ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data; detecting deformation of the tissue of interest; storing the ultrasound image data; and storing the ultrasound image data in a storage unit based on the detection result of the deformation.

[0023] The program of the invention described in claim 14 is Computer, an image generating unit that generates ultrasound image data from a reception signal of an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound; a target detection unit that detects one or more tissues of interest from an ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data; a deformation detection unit for detecting deformation of the tissue of interest; a control unit that stores the ultrasound image data in a storage unit based on the detection result of the deformation; Function as. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to the present invention, in an ultrasound examination involving deformation of a tissue of interest, ultrasound image data can be automatically saved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing ultrasound image display processing. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image screen according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image screen of a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] Advantages and features provided by one or more embodiments of the present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. However, these drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to define the limits of the present invention. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0027] (Embodiment) An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. First, the device configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic device 100 of this embodiment. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasound diagnostic device 100 is installed in a medical facility such as a hospital, and generates ultrasound image data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves to and from a subject such as a patient's living body. The ultrasound diagnostic device 100 includes an ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1 and an ultrasound probe 2. The ultrasound probe 2 is connected to the ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1. The ultrasound probe 2 transmits ultrasound waves (transmitted ultrasound waves) into the subject and receives reflected waves of the ultrasound waves (reflected ultrasound waves: echoes) reflected within the subject. The ultrasound probe 2 includes an ultrasound probe main body 21, a cable 22, and a connector 23. The ultrasound probe main body 21 is the head of the ultrasound probe 2 and transmits and receives ultrasound waves. The cable 22 is connected to the ultrasound probe main body 21 and the connector 23. The cable 22 is a cable through which a drive signal for the ultrasound probe main body 21 and a received ultrasound signal flow. The connector 23 is a plug connector for connecting to a receptacle connector (not shown) of the ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1.

[0029] The ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1 is connected to the ultrasound probe main body 21 via a connector 23 and a cable 22. The ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1 transmits an electrical drive signal to the ultrasound probe main body 21, causing the ultrasound probe main body 21 to transmit ultrasound waves to the subject. The ultrasound probe 2 generates a reception signal, which is an electrical signal, in response to the ultrasound reflected from inside the subject and received by the ultrasound probe main body 21. The ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1 creates an image of the internal state of the subject as ultrasound image data based on the reception signal generated by the ultrasound probe 2.

[0030] The ultrasound probe main body 21 has transducers 211 (FIG. 2) at the tip side. The number of transducers 211 can be set arbitrarily, and in practice, it is, for example, 192. The transducers 211 are arranged, for example, in a one-dimensional array in the scanning direction (azimuth direction). The transducers 211 may be arranged in a two-dimensional array. In this embodiment, a linear scanning electronic scanning probe is adopted as the ultrasound probe 2. However, the ultrasound probe 2 may be either an electronic scanning type or a mechanical scanning type. The ultrasound probe 2 may be either a linear scanning type, a sector scanning type, or a convex scanning type. The ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1 and the ultrasound probe 2 may be configured to communicate wirelessly instead of by wire via a cable 22. This wireless communication may be UWB (Ultra Wide Band) or the like.

[0031] The operation unit 11 is a control panel or the like that accepts various operation inputs from users such as doctors, technicians, etc. The operation unit 11 has operation elements such as push buttons, encoders, lever switches, joysticks, trackballs, keyboards, touchpads, and multifunction switches.

[0032] The display unit 19 has a display panel such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 19 displays display information such as ultrasound image data on the display panel.

[0033] 2, the ultrasound diagnostic device main body 1 includes an operation unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a reception unit 13, an image generation unit 14, an object detection unit 15, a deformation detection unit 16, an image storage unit 17, a control unit 18, a display unit 19, a memory unit 31, and an audio output unit 32. Note that the signal lines shown in FIG. 2 not only indicate lines connecting input sources and output destinations, but also indicate lines passing through the control unit 18.

[0034] The operation unit 11 accepts various operation inputs from the user and outputs the operation signals to the control unit 18. The operation unit 11 may be formed integrally with the display screen of the display unit 19 and may include a touch panel that accepts touch inputs from the user.

[0035] The transmitter 12, under the control of the controller 18, supplies a drive signal, which is an electrical signal, to the ultrasonic probe 2, causing the ultrasonic probe 2 to generate a transmission ultrasonic wave. The transmitter 12 includes, for example, a clock generating circuit, a delay circuit, and a pulse generating circuit. The clock generating circuit generates a clock signal that determines the transmission timing and transmission frequency of the drive signal. The delay circuit sets a delay time for each individual path corresponding to each transducer 211, and delays the transmission of the drive signal by the set delay time. The delay circuit focuses a transmission beam formed by the transmission ultrasonic wave using the delay. The pulse generating circuit generates a pulse signal as a drive signal at a predetermined period. The transmitter 12 generates a transmission ultrasonic wave by, for example, driving a continuous portion (e.g., 64 transducers) of multiple (e.g., 192 transducers) arranged in the ultrasonic probe 2. The transmitter 12 then performs scanning by shifting the driven transducer in the scanning direction each time a transmission ultrasonic wave is generated.

[0036] The receiving unit 13 receives a received signal, which is an electrical signal, from the ultrasound probe 2 under the control of the control unit 18. The receiving unit 13 includes, for example, an amplifier, an A / D conversion circuit, and a phasing and summing circuit. The amplifier amplifies the received signal by a preset amplification factor for each individual path corresponding to each transducer 211. The A / D conversion circuit performs analog-to-digital conversion (A / D conversion) on the amplified received signal. The phasing and summing circuit adjusts the time phase by providing a delay time for each individual path corresponding to each transducer 211 to the A / D converted received signal, and adds these signals (phasing and summing) to generate sound ray data.

[0037] The image generator 14, under the control of the controller 18, performs envelope detection processing, logarithmic compression, and the like on the sound ray data from the receiver 13, and adjusts the dynamic range and gain to convert the brightness. Through this brightness conversion, the image generator 14 generates B-mode image data made up of pixels having brightness values ​​representing received energy. In other words, the B-mode image data represents the strength of the received signal by brightness.

[0038] The image generation unit 14 performs coordinate transformation and the like on the generated B-mode image data in sequence on a frame-by-frame basis, and outputs the result to the display unit 19 to display it as a live B-mode image. At the same time, the image generation unit 14 outputs the generated B-mode image data in sequence on a frame-by-frame basis to the object detection unit 15. Note that the image generation unit 14 may be configured to be able to generate and display image data in other image modes, such as color Doppler mode, in addition to B-mode image data.

[0039] The object detection unit 15, under the control of the control unit 18, detects blood vessel regions as detection objects (tissues of interest) in the image in the B-mode image data generated by the image generation unit 14. The object detection unit 15 detects blood vessel regions, for example, by image recognition using machine learning. Machine learning is performed using the B-mode image data in which blood vessel regions have been identified as training data, and a trained model for detecting blood vessel regions from an input image is obtained. The trained model is stored, for example, in the storage unit 31. The object detection unit 15 reads the trained model from the storage unit 31 as appropriate, and detects blood vessel regions from the B-mode image data input from the image generation unit 14. Note that the object detection unit 15 may be configured to detect blood vessel regions using other image analysis methods, such as pattern matching.

[0040] The blood vessels in a B-mode image include arteries and veins, and may also include other arteries. For DVT, it is recommended to observe the deformation of arteries and veins, which are prone to exhibit relative differences in deformation when the subject is compressed. Therefore, the object detection unit 15 detects two or more blood vessel regions, including at least an artery and a vein. The object detection unit 15 outputs the B-mode image data and the detected blood vessel region information to the deformation detection unit 16.

[0041] The deformation detection unit 16, under the control of the control unit 18, calculates the area of ​​the cross section of the blood vessel as the degree of deformation at the time of compression from the B-mode image data and blood vessel region information input from the object detection unit 15. The cross section is a cross section that is approximately perpendicular to the axial direction of the blood vessel, and is usually the surface of the B-mode image when the ultrasound probe 2 is placed on the body surface of the subject.

[0042] The deformation detection unit 16, for example, identifies arteries and veins in the same B-mode image and calculates the total area of ​​the blood vessels including at least the arteries and veins. Arteries are less likely to collapse due to compression (the degree of reduction in area is small). Veins are more likely to collapse due to compression (the degree of reduction in area is large). The deformation detection unit 16 outputs multiple frames of B-mode image data in time series and the calculated blood vessel areas to the image storage unit 17.

[0043] Under the control of the control unit 18, the image saving unit 17 automatically saves the B-mode image data having the smallest area among the multiple frames of B-mode image data in the time series input from the deformation detection unit 16 in the storage unit 31. When saving the B-mode image data, the image saving unit 17 also performs coordinate transformation and the like on the B-mode image data and outputs it to the display unit 19 for display.

[0044] The control unit 18 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 18 reads out various processing programs stored in the ROM, loads them into the RAM, and controls each unit of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 in cooperation with the CPU and the loaded programs. The ROM is composed of a non-volatile memory such as a semiconductor. The ROM stores a system program corresponding to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100, various processing programs executable on the system program, and various data such as a gamma table.

[0045] In particular, the ROM stores an ultrasound image display program for executing the ultrasound image display process described below. These programs are stored in the RAM in the form of computer-readable program codes. The CPU sequentially executes operations in accordance with the program codes stored in the RAM. The RAM forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs executed by the CPU and data related to these programs.

[0046] The display unit 19 displays a B-mode image based on the B-mode image data input from the image generation unit 14 or the image storage unit 17 on the display panel under the control of the control unit 18. The display unit 19 also displays various display information input from the control unit 18 on the display panel. The display unit 19 may be configured so that a touch panel that accepts touch input from the user is provided on the display panel.

[0047] The storage unit 31 is a storage unit such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores information such as ultrasound image data in a writable and readable manner.

[0048] The audio output unit 32 is composed of an amplifier, a speaker, etc., and outputs various sounds based on audio signals input from the control unit 18.

[0049] For each component of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100, some or all of the functions of each functional block can be implemented as a hardware circuit such as an integrated circuit. An example of an integrated circuit is an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Depending on the level of integration, an LSI may also be referred to as an IC (Integrated Circuit), a system LSI, a super LSI, or an ultra LSI. Furthermore, the method of implementing the integrated circuit is not limited to an LSI. The integrated circuit may also be implemented using a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. The integrated circuit may also utilize a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or a reconfigurable processor, which allows the reconfiguration of the connections and settings of circuit cells within the LSI. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of each functional block may be implemented by software. In this case, the software is stored on one or more storage media, such as a ROM, an optical disk, or a hard disk, and is executed by a processor.

[0050] Next, the operation of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing ultrasound image display processing. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image screen 400.

[0051] Assume that the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 is used to perform an initial DVT ultrasound examination for vascular screening of a patient. However, the DVT ultrasound examination to be performed may be a post-D-dimer DVT ultrasound examination. A user, such as a doctor or technician, inputs an instruction to execute ultrasound image display processing into the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 via the operation unit 11. The execution instruction triggers the control unit 18 to execute ultrasound image display processing in accordance with the ultrasound image display program stored in the ROM.

[0052] 5, the control unit 18 controls the transmitting unit 12 and the receiving unit 13 to cause the ultrasound probe 2 to transmit and receive B-mode ultrasound waves and generate sound ray data (step S11). The control unit 18 controls the image generating unit 14 to generate B-mode image data from the sound ray data generated in step S11 and display it live on the display unit 19 (step S12). In step S12, for example, an ultrasound image screen 400 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.

[0053] The ultrasound image screen 400 has an input image area 410, a deformed image area 420, and a time series information area 430. The input image area 410 is a display area for a live B-mode image. A B-mode image based on the B-mode image data generated in step S12 is displayed in the input image area 410. The deformed image area 420 is arranged parallel to the input image area 410. As will be described later, the deformed image area 420 is a display area for displaying, as a still image, a B-mode image in which the blood vessels are most deformed due to pressure on the subject, among the B-mode images displayed in the input image area 410. The time series information area 430 is a display area for displaying information regarding blood vessel deformation in the time series of generation of the live B-mode image data, as will be described later.

[0054] During the ongoing ultrasound image display process, the user applies pressure to the subject's body surface with the ultrasound probe 2 as needed for DVT detection. The control unit 18 causes the object detection unit 15 to detect blood vessels from the B-mode image of the B-mode image data generated in step S12 (step S13). The detected blood vessels include, for example, at least arteries and veins. The control unit 18 causes the deformation detection unit 16 to calculate the area of ​​the blood vessel region of the blood vessel detected in step S13 (step S14).

[0055] Based on the area of ​​the vascular region calculated in step S14, the control unit 18 determines whether the blood vessel has undergone the maximum deformation in time series since the start of scanning (step S15). In step S15, if the area of ​​the current vascular region is less than the area of ​​the vascular region with the largest deformation in the past stored in the memory unit 31, it is determined that the blood vessel has undergone the maximum deformation. If the area of ​​the vascular region is not the minimum (step S15; NO), the process proceeds to step S11. If the area of ​​the vascular region is the minimum (step S15; YES), the process proceeds to steps S16 and S17.

[0056] The control unit 18 causes the image storage unit 17 to display the deformed B-mode image data generated in step S12 on the display unit 19 and automatically store it in the storage unit 31 (step S16). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S11. The B-mode image of the deformed B-mode image data in step S16 is displayed as a still image in the deformed image area 420 in FIG. 4, for example. At the time of this display, if a B-mode image with the previous maximum deformation is already displayed, the B-mode image being displayed is updated to the B-mode image with the current maximum deformation.

[0057] Furthermore, at the time of saving, if B-mode image data of the past maximum deformation has already been saved in the storage unit 31, the saved B-mode image data is updated to B-mode image data of the current maximum deformation. However, the B-mode image data of the current maximum deformation may be configured to be stored separately from B-mode image data of deformation saved in the past. Furthermore, the control unit 18 causes the image saving unit 17 to store the area of ​​the vascular region of the current maximum deformation in the storage unit 31 as the area of ​​the vascular region of the past maximum deformation. The stored area of ​​the vascular region of the current maximum deformation is used for determination in step S15.

[0058] In parallel with step S16, the control unit 18 generates a marker indicating the timing of image storage (maximum deformation) and displays it on the display unit 19 (step S17). In step S17, the generated marker is displayed, for example, in the time series information area 430 of FIG. 4. The time series information area 430 has a time axis 431, small markers 432, and a maximum marker 433. The time axis 431 is the time axis from the start of scanning to the present (or the end of scanning). The time axis 431 is the time axis on which time passes from right to left, but it may also be the time axis on which time passes in the opposite direction. The small marker 432 has, for example, an inverted triangular shape, and the lower vertex on the time axis 431 indicates the timing (time) at which deformation was detected in the past. The maximum marker 433 has, for example, an emphasized inverted triangular shape that is larger than the small marker 432, and the lower vertex on the time axis 431 indicates the timing at which the maximum deformation to date was detected.

[0059] That is, the B-mode image in which deformation was detected at the timing corresponding to the largest marker 433 is displayed as a still image in the deformed image area 420 and stored in the storage unit 31. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which the B-mode image data corresponding to the small marker 432 is stored in the storage unit 31 and is not deleted (updated). In this configuration, the control unit 18 accepts a selection input of the small marker 432 from the user via the operation unit 11. The control unit 18 reads out the B-mode image data corresponding to the selected small marker 432 from the storage unit 31 and displays it in the deformed image area 420. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which thumbnail images of the corresponding B-mode image data are displayed above the small marker 432 and the largest marker 433, respectively.

[0060] Furthermore, in step S17, the control unit 18 causes the image storage unit 17 to output a voice (sound) to the audio output unit 32 indicating that a deformation of the blood vessel has been detected. By hearing the sound, the user can auditorily recognize that a deformation of the blood vessel has been detected even when the user's line of sight is shifted away from the display unit 19 or when the user is unable to see the display unit 19. Thereafter, the processing proceeds to step S11. Furthermore, in response to input of an instruction to end the scan from the user via the operation unit 11, the ultrasound image display processing is ended.

[0061] As described above, according to this embodiment, the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 includes an image generation unit 14, an object detection unit 15, a deformation detection unit 16, a memory unit 31, an image storage unit 17, and a control unit 18. The image generation unit 14 generates ultrasound image data (B-mode image data) from a signal received by the ultrasound probe 2 that transmits and receives ultrasound. The object detection unit 15 detects one or more tissues of interest (blood vessels) from an ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data. The deformation detection unit 16 detects deformation of the tissues of interest. The memory unit 31 stores the ultrasound image data. The image storage unit 17 and the control unit 18 store the ultrasound image data in the memory unit 31 based on the deformation detection results.

[0062] This makes it possible to automatically save ultrasound image data in ultrasound examinations involving vascular deformation, such as DVT. AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology is expected to continue to evolve in the future. Therefore, rather than relying on external devices for image saving (foot switches, button-equipped probes, etc.), it is expected that image saving control using image recognition by AI technology will become the norm. At this time, saving control will be possible without relying on the grade or system configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic equipment (without increasing costs). Furthermore, in clinical settings, appropriate ultrasound image data can be easily saved even when the user has both hands full, as in the case of DVT. Furthermore, it will be possible to reduce the need to retake ultrasound image data, improving productivity.

[0063] The control unit 18 displays the saved ultrasound image data on the display unit 19. This allows the user to visually check the automatically saved ultrasound image data, enabling accurate ultrasound diagnosis of DVT and the like.

[0064] Deformation is the change in the cross section of a blood vessel, which can make ultrasound examinations such as DVT more accurate.

[0065] The blood vessels to be detected are veins. The object detection unit 15 detects two or more blood vessels (arteries and veins). This allows for more accurate ultrasound diagnosis of DVT.

[0066] The deformation of the cross section of the blood vessel is a contraction. The object detection unit 15 detects the contraction of the cross section of the blood vessel by the area of ​​the cross section. This makes it possible to more accurately detect the deformation of the blood vessel.

[0067] The control unit 18 and the image storage unit 17 store the ultrasound image data at the timing when the deformation of the blood vessel is detected in the memory unit 31. Therefore, the stored ultrasound image data can be used to make the diagnosis of DVT in ultrasound examinations more accurate.

[0068] The control unit 18 displays the timing at which the deformation of the blood vessel is detected on the display unit 19 using small markers 432 and maximum markers 433 as display elements. The control unit 18 arranges the small markers 432 and maximum markers 433 at the timing in chronological order and displays them on the display unit 19. This allows the user to visually and accurately recognize the timing at which the deformation of the blood vessel is detected in chronological order.

[0069] The control unit 18 displays the maximum marker 433, which is the timing at which the blood vessel deformation was last detected, on the display unit 19 in a manner that emphasizes it more than the small marker 432. This allows the user to more easily recognize the timing at which the blood vessel deformation was last (and maximum) detected.

[0070] The control unit 18 causes the audio output unit 32 to output audio at the timing when the deformation of the blood vessel is detected. Therefore, even if the user cannot check the display unit 19, the user can accurately recognize the timing of the deformation of the blood vessel by hearing.

[0071] (Variation) A modification of the above embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image screen 500 of this modification.

[0072] This modified example is configured to display an ultrasound image screen 500 in Fig. 5 instead of the ultrasound image screen 400 in Fig. 4. The device configuration of this modified example uses the ultrasound diagnostic device 100, similar to the above embodiment.

[0073] The ultrasonic image display process of this modification is executed in the ultrasonic diagnostic device 100. The ultrasonic image display process of this modification is substantially the same as the ultrasonic image display process of the above embodiment, and therefore differences will be mainly described. In the ultrasonic image display process, the ultrasonic image screen 500 of FIG. 5 is displayed.

[0074] The ultrasound image screen 500 has an input image area 510, a deformation image area 520, and deformation display bars 531 and 532. The input image area 510 is an area for displaying a live B-mode image on which contour enhancement units 511 and 512 are superimposed. The contour enhancement unit 511 is an elliptical display element that enhances the contour of an artery region identified by the deformation detection unit 16 in step S14 among the blood vessels detected in step S13. The contour enhancement unit 512 is an elliptical display element that enhances the contour of a vein region identified by the deformation detection unit 16 in step S14 among the blood vessels detected in step S13. In step S12, the B-mode image data is not displayed as is. In step S14, the control unit 18 superimposes the contour enhancement unit 511 on the contour of the identified artery region on the B-mode image of the B-mode image data generated in step S12. Similarly, the control unit 18 superimposes the contour enhancement unit 512 on the contour of the identified vein region on the B-mode image. The control unit 18 causes the display unit 19 to live-display the B-mode image data on which the contour enhancement portions 511 and 512 are superimposed. The B-mode image on which the contour enhancement portions 511 and 512 are superimposed is displayed in the input image area 510. In addition, in step S14, the areas (total values) of the arterial and venous areas are calculated.

[0075] In step S16, the control unit 18 displays the B-mode image data on which the contour enhancement portions 511 and 512 are superimposed on the display unit 19. The B-mode image on which the contour enhancement portions 511 and 512 are superimposed is displayed in the transformed image area 520. At this time, in the transformed image area 520, the contour enhancement portion 511 is set as the contour enhancement portion 521, and the contour enhancement portion 512 is set as the contour enhancement portion 522.

[0076] Step S17 is not executed. After (step S15; NO) or step S16, the control unit 18 executes step S18 (not shown). In step S18, the control unit 18 generates transformation display bars 531 and 532, displays them on the display unit 19, and proceeds to step S11. The transformation display bars 531 and 532 are displayed, for example, in the input image area 510 and the transformed image area 520, respectively.

[0077] The deformation display bar 531 is a bar-shaped display element that indicates, by its length, the elapsed time from the start of scanning to the current time, corresponding to an artery in the B-mode image being displayed in the input image area 510. The deformation display bar 532 is a bar-shaped display element that indicates, by its length, the elapsed time from the start of scanning to the current time, corresponding to a vein in the B-mode image being displayed in the input image area 510. Furthermore, the deformation display bar 532 indicates, by a light gray color, the timing (time) of a frame in which the area of ​​a vein has increased compared to the immediately preceding frame. Similarly, the deformation display bar 532 indicates, by a dark gray color, the timing of a frame in which the area of ​​a vein has decreased.

[0078] As described above, this modification also makes it possible to automatically save ultrasound image data (B-mode image data) in ultrasound examinations involving deformation of blood vessels such as DVT. Furthermore, the contour enhancement units 511, 512, 521, and 522 allow the user to reliably recognize the contours of blood vessels as luminal tissue in the B-mode images of the input image region 510 and the deformed image region 520.

[0079] In the above description, an example has been disclosed in which a ROM is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but this is not limiting. Other computer-readable media include non-volatile memory such as flash memory and portable recording media such as CD-ROM. Furthermore, a carrier wave is also applicable to the present invention as a medium for providing data for the program according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0080] The above-described embodiments and modifications are merely examples of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, image storage method, and program according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these.

[0081] In the above embodiment and modified example, the deformation of a blood vessel is detected based on the area of ​​the cross-section of the blood vessel, but this is not limiting. For example, the deformation detection unit 16 may detect the deformation of a blood vessel based on the aspect ratio of the cross-section of the blood vessel. In step S14 of FIG. 3, the control unit 18 causes the deformation detection unit 16 to calculate the aspect ratio of the cross-section of the blood vessel. In step S15, the control unit 18 determines whether the aspect ratio of the cross-section of the blood vessel calculated in step S14 is a value that is compressed in the horizontal direction and is the largest deformation in a time series. This configuration also makes it possible to easily calculate the degree of deformation in the cross-section of the blood vessel as the aspect ratio.

[0082] In the above embodiment and modified example, the deformation display bar 532 is configured to indicate in light gray the timing (time) of the frame in which the area of ​​the vein has increased compared to the immediately preceding frame, but it may also be configured to display the area and aspect ratio of the cross section of the blood vessel in chronological order. This configuration also allows the user to check the deformation of the blood vessel in chronological order, and also allows the user to check the timing of the automatically saved ultrasound image data.

[0083] Furthermore, in the above embodiment and modified example, the configuration is such that deformation of blood vessels in tubular tissue is detected as the tissue of interest to which pressure is applied, but this is not limited to this. The tissue of interest to which pressure is applied may also be a tumor (cancer) (suspected tumor) part of the subject. It has been reported that if a tumor is positive, it is hard and difficult to deform, and if a tumor is negative, it is soft and easy to deform. The object detection unit 15 detects a tumor from the ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data. The deformation detection unit 16 detects deformation of the tumor. The image storage unit 17 and control unit 18 store the ultrasound image data in which deformation has been detected in the memory unit 31 based on the deformation detection results.

[0084] While embodiments and variations of the present invention have been described and illustrated in detail, the disclosed embodiments and variations are made for purposes of illustration and example only, and are not intended to be limiting. The scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the terms of the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 100 Ultrasound diagnostic equipment 1. Ultrasound diagnostic device 11 Control section 12 Transmitter 13 Receiving unit 14 Image generation unit 15 Target detection unit 16 Deformation detection unit 17 Image storage section 18 Control Unit 19 Display section 31 Storage section 32 Audio output section 2 Ultrasonic probe 21 Ultrasonic probe body 22 Cable 23 Connector

Claims

1. an image generating unit that generates ultrasound image data from a reception signal of an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound; an object detection unit that detects one or more tissues of interest from an ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data; a deformation detection unit that detects deformation of the tissue of interest; a storage unit that stores ultrasound image data; a control unit that stores the ultrasound image data in the storage unit based on a result of the detection of the deformation.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit displays the stored ultrasonic image data on a display unit.

3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the deformation is a deformation of a cross section of the tissue of interest.

4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the tissue of interest is a vein.

5. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the target detection unit detects two or more of the tissues of interest.

6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the deformation of the cross section of the tissue of interest is a contraction.

7. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the object detection unit detects the shrinkage of the cross section of the tissue of interest by the area or aspect ratio of the cross section.

8. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit stores the ultrasound image data at the timing when the deformation is detected in the storage unit.

9. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit displays the timing at which the deformation is detected on the display unit using a display element.

10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit arranges the timing display elements in chronological order and displays them on the display unit.

11. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit displays on the display unit a display element at the timing when the deformation was last detected in an emphasized manner.

12. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit causes the audio output unit to output audio at the timing when the deformation is detected.

13. generating ultrasound image data from a received signal of an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound; detecting one or more structures of interest from the ultrasound image data; detecting deformation of the tissue of interest; storing the ultrasound image data; and storing the ultrasound image data in a storage unit based on the detection result of the deformation.

14. Computer, an image generating unit that generates ultrasound image data from a reception signal of an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound; an object detection unit that detects one or more tissues of interest from an ultrasound image of the ultrasound image data; a deformation detection unit for detecting deformation of the tissue of interest; a control unit that stores the ultrasound image data in a storage unit based on the detection result of the deformation; A program to function as a

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