Evaluation of 3D ultrasound scan acquisition quality

Abstract

The proposed concept aims to provide plans, solutions, concepts, designs, methods, and systems related to evaluating the acquisition quality of subject scans performed by 3D ultrasound scanners. Specifically, the evaluation of image quality in 3D is achieved based on the coherence value of image data generalized in elevation angle dimensions (rather than the azimuth angle dimensions used for 2D ultrasound data). Thus, the image quality value is determined for different parts of the 3D region based on the coherence tomography coefficient of the relevant ultrasound image data. From the image quality value, the volume of the 3D region that is properly scanned can be determined. In this way, feedback regarding the acquisition quality of 3D ultrasound scans can be provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of evaluating scanner acquisition quality, and more particularly to the field of evaluating the acquisition quality of scans by a 3D ultrasound scanner.

Background Art

[0002] The quality of images obtained by 3D ultrasound scans depends on several factors. Appropriate positioning and orientation of the transducer of the ultrasound scanner are required to ensure that the desired region of the subject (i.e., the region of interest) is properly imaged. Further, the desired region may not be imaged when there is an obstruction (e.g., bone between the transducer and the region of interest).

[0003] By providing feedback regarding the quality of the acquired scan of the subject, adjustments can be made to improve said quality. This can be useful for training purposes to ensure that the ultrasound examiner is provided with information regarding how to improve the scan. Further, such feedback can be useful in a real-time scan situation to minimize the amount of time taken to perform the ultrasound scan, which can be inconvenient and uncomfortable for the subject.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the case of 2D ultrasound scans, it can be easy to directly visualize the scan so that feedback can be performed. That is, in 2D, the ultrasound examiner can directly examine the image to determine the effect of adjustments to the acoustic window. However, it can be seen that this is more difficult in 3D, especially since part of the volume may have a good acoustic window while another part may be troubled by a poor acoustic window.

[0005] European Patent Application Publication No. 4149360 describes a method for measuring a hip joint in ultrasound imaging, which includes obtaining an ultrasound image of the hip joint and a spatial coherence map relating to one or more delays of ultrasound associated with the ultrasound image.

[0006] In "3D Freehand Ultrasound, Image Reconstruction, and Volumetric Analysis," Barry et al. describe a system for rapidly generating regular 3D data blocks suitable for processing with conventional image analysis and quantitative measurement software. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This invention is defined by the claims.

[0008] According to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention, A method for evaluating the quality of a scan of a subject using a 3D ultrasound scanner, The steps include acquiring ultrasound image data related to the 3D region of the subject, A step of determining an image quality value for each of several different parts of the 3D region, which indicates the quality of the ultrasonic image data associated with the part of the 3D region, wherein each image quality value is based on the coherence factor of the associated ultrasonic image data in the elevation angle dimension of the 3D region. A step of determining the volume of the 3D region having a predetermined minimum acquisition quality, based on the step of identifying a portion of the 3D region associated with image quality values ​​that satisfy predetermined conditions, wherein the predetermined conditions are based on at least one of contrast value, resolution value, distortion value, noise value, sharpness value, and artifact density value. A method is provided that has the following characteristics.

[0009] This invention provides a means for determining the volume (i.e., the minimum required acquisition quality) of a 3D region (i.e., region of interest) that can be properly scanned. In other words, this invention provides a method for determining / identifying the volume of a subject for a 3D ultrasound scan that can be imaged with sufficient quality from the associated ultrasound image data.

[0010] While simply generating images from a 2D ultrasound scan (and thus providing a means for the ultrasound examiner to determine the validity of the imaging data) may be easy, this is more problematic for 3D scans because rendering and displaying all slices of a 3D region is impractical. In fact, such renderings are also difficult for the user to understand and / or confusing.

[0011] The proposed embodiment aims to overcome this problem by determining the volume of the 3D region to be properly scanned. Specifically, this is achieved by determining and / or calculating the quality values ​​of different parts of the 3D region. The quality values ​​are based on the coherence tomography coefficient (a well-known metric in ultrasound imaging). However, the coherence tomography coefficient is based on a focused transmission (i.e., a 2D ultrasound scan) rather than an unfocused beam in the azimuth angle as in a 3D ultrasound scan. Therefore, the embodiment is based on the recognition that the coherence tomography coefficient can be used to characterize the quality of ultrasound image data of a portion of the 3D volume by generalizing the coherence tomography coefficient to the elevation angle dimension.

[0012] In other words, embodiments may be based on the understanding that, if the coherence tomography coefficient is generalized to the elevation angle dimension, the coherence tomography coefficient can be used to evaluate image quality. This can enable direct measurement of the quality of ultrasound image data related to different parts of the 3D region of the subject, which can, in turn, be used to determine the properly scanned area.

[0013] The properly scanned volume may be presented to the user / ultrasonic examiner, or an indication of such volume may be provided. As a result, the embodiment can offer the benefits of an improved ultrasound scan (since relevant feedback may be provided), or the time required to complete the scan may be reduced. Thus, time can be saved for both the ultrasound examiner and the subject.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method may further include generating a signal containing information for displaying a visual indication describing a volume in a 3D region.

[0015] Therefore, the benefits that can be achieved by determining / identifying the volume of the 3D region that is properly scanned are realized. That is, a visual indication describing the volume of the 3D region is displayed, reassuring the user / ultrasonician that the volume of interest has been properly scanned, or prompting them to adjust the scan to properly scan the volume of interest.

[0016] Furthermore, the visual indication may include a set of lines representing the volume boundary.

[0017] One simple way feedback can be provided is by having a set of lines that define the properly scanned volume. This can be quickly and easily interpreted by the user / ultrasonician to gain a clear understanding of the properly scanned volume.

[0018] Furthermore, the visual indication may further include an image representing at least a portion of the 3D region of the subject overlaid by a set of lines.

[0019] By superimposing the above-mentioned lines on the visual representation of the subject (i.e., a simplified representation of an organ / region on the subject), the ease with which the user / sonographer can understand the volume to be appropriately scanned can be increased.

[0020] In some embodiments, the predetermined condition may be based on at least one of a contrast value, a resolution value, a distortion value, a noise value, a sharpness value, and an artifact density value.

[0021] By basing the predetermined condition on one of these factors, the quality of the ultrasonic scan data can be improved.

[0022] In additional embodiments, identifying a portion of the 3D region can include evaluating each of the image quality values based on a predetermined condition.

[0023] One way to evaluate the appropriate region can be by individually comparing each image quality value against a predetermined condition(s).

[0024] In other embodiments, the step of identifying the portion of the 3D region includes a step of determining a set of image quality values, wherein each set of image quality values is related to the portion of the 3D region in a different image direction, for each image direction, processing the related set of image quality values to determine a set quality value indicative of the quality of the ultrasonic image data in the image direction, and determining a volume of the subject having a predetermined minimum acquisition quality based on identifying the image direction related to the set quality value that meets the predetermined condition. and has.

[0025] In other words, alternative means by which a region can be evaluated as being appropriate is by comparing the image quality values in each image direction (i.e., the direction extending from the transducer). This can ensure that visualization (e.g., by a set of lines defining a properly imaged volume) is easy to render.

[0026] Some embodiments of the method may further include processing ultrasonic image data to determine the position of a structure of a subject within a 3D region that obstructs ultrasonic imaging of the subject, and determining the volume of the 3D region is further based on the determined position of the structure.

[0027] Another piece of information useful for determining a 3D region to be scanned appropriately is the presence of a structure of the subject. The structure of the subject obscures the scanner and thus may result in a low-quality image. Thus, by determining and using the position of the structure of the subject, a more meaningful appropriately scanned 3D region can be determined.

[0028] Specifically, determining the position of the structure can include processing the B-mode component of the ultrasonic image data based on an image analysis algorithm, or processing the channel component of the ultrasonic image data based on a signal processing algorithm.

[0029] In some embodiments, the structure may include at least one rib of the subject.

[0030] Further embodiments of the method may further include processing ultrasonic image data to determine the position of a transducer of a 3D ultrasonic scanner used to acquire the ultrasonic image data for a 3D region of the subject, and determining the volume of the 3D region is further based on the determined position of the transducer.

[0031] Further information useful in determining the properly scanned 3D area is the positioning and / or orientation of the scanner's transducer. Therefore, by determining and using the transducer's position, a more meaningful and properly scanned 3D area can be determined.

[0032] Furthermore, each of the multiple different parts of the 3D region of the subject may be a voxel of the 3D region of the subject.

[0033] In particular, acquiring ultrasound image data can include acquiring ultrasound image data from a 3D ultrasound scan session in real time, and determining the volume is performed during the scan session.

[0034] By performing real-time determination of appropriately scanned volumes, users / ultrasonic operators can adjust the scanning device accordingly to ensure that their regions of interest are properly scanned (without the need to perform multiple individual scan sessions and evaluate the image quality between each session).

[0035] According to another aspect of the present invention, a computer program is provided which includes computer program code means adapted to carry out a method of any embodiment of the present invention when the computer program is executed on a computer.

[0036] According to an additional example of one aspect of the present invention, A system for evaluating the quality of scans of a subject using a 3D ultrasound scanner, An interface configured to acquire ultrasound image data related to the 3D region of the subject, It is a processor, A step of determining an image quality value for each of a plurality of different parts of the 3D region, which indicates the quality of the ultrasonic image data associated with the part of the 3D region, wherein each image quality value is based on the coherence factor of the associated ultrasonic image data in the elevation angle dimension of the 3D region. A step of determining the volume of the 3D region having a predetermined minimum acquisition quality, based on the step of identifying a portion of the 3D region associated with image quality values ​​that satisfy predetermined conditions, wherein the predetermined conditions are based on at least one of contrast value, resolution value, distortion value, noise value, sharpness value, and artifact density value. A processor and A system is provided that has the following features.

[0037] These and other aspects of the present invention are evident from the embodiments described below and will be explained with reference thereto.

[0038] To better understand the present invention and to more clearly illustrate how it can be implemented, the accompanying drawings are referenced here, merely as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0039] [Figure 1] This displays an overlay that may be presented to the user, indicating the extent of the 3D volume to be properly scanned. [Figure 2] This diagram shows a flowchart of a method for evaluating the acquisition quality of a subject scan using a 3D ultrasound scanner according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] A simplified block diagram of a system for evaluating the acquisition quality of a subject scan using a 3D ultrasound scanner, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 4] This is a simplified block diagram of a computer in which one or more parts of the embodiment may be employed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0040] The present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0041] Detailed descriptions and specific examples illustrate exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems, and methods, but should be understood to be illustrative only and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems, and methods of the invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims, and the appended drawings. The mere fact that certain means are described in different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these means cannot be used advantageously.

[0042] Please understand that the diagrams are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale. Also, please understand that the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0043] The proposed concept aims to provide plans, solutions, concepts, designs, methods, and systems related to evaluating the acquisition quality of subject scans performed by 3D ultrasound scanners. Specifically, the evaluation of image quality in 3D is achieved based on the coherence value of image data generalized in elevation angle dimensions (rather than the azimuth angle dimensions used for 2D ultrasound data). Thus, the image quality value is determined for different parts of the 3D region based on the coherence tomography coefficient of the relevant ultrasound image data. From the image quality value, the volume of the 3D region that is properly scanned can be determined. In this way, feedback regarding the acquisition quality of 3D ultrasound scans can be provided.

[0044] In the case of 2D scanning, a set of lines may be provided to delineate portions of the image with a good image quality score. Portions of the image may be shown as having a poor / insufficient image quality score due to an insufficient acoustic window. The position of the lines may be updated as the transducer (i.e., probe) of the ultrasound scanner is moved, thus providing real-time feedback indicating the portion of the subject that is properly imaged.

[0045] However, the advantages of providing lines overlaid on 2D ultrasound images are limited. This is because ultrasound technicians can easily see from the image itself which parts of the image are of good quality and which parts are not.

[0046] Conversely, with 3D ultrasound scans, evaluating and visualizing image quality at every point within the scanned volume is no longer straightforward. Simply rendering the entire volume and providing the rendered 3D image does not offer the sonographer a simple or easy way to determine whether or not it was scanned properly. Not only is it difficult for the ultrasound technician to determine at a glance which parts of the volume have been properly scanned, but actually displaying the 3D volume in a meaningful way is also a challenge.

[0047] As shown in Figure 1, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is proposed to generate a signal containing information for displaying a set of lines in 3D to the user / ultrasonic examiner, indicating the extent of an acceptable scanned area (i.e., according to image quality values). Again, the position of the lines is updated in real time as the probe / transducer is moved, and thus it is possible to show the user which parts of the volume are being scanned improperly or properly (for example, being blocked by ribs or lungs when attempting to scan the heart, or due to irregular positioning of the probe / transducer).

[0048] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, lines can be overlaid on a 3D representation of the volume of interest (e.g., the heart) to indicate which parts of the scanned region are blocked / improperly scanned with respect to the volume of interest (e.g., the heart). As a result, it can be immediately apparent to the user which parts of the subject have been properly scanned. Moreover, if it is not possible to capture / image / scan the entire region of interest in a single acoustic window, the scan session may be performed in two iterations, with lines guiding the position of the probe in each iteration.

[0049] In yet another embodiment of this design, a 3D live navigation schematic can be shown to the user during acquisition. For example, the navigation schematic can present a representation of the subject's chest / rib cage in relation to the transducer, and can show estimated values ​​in the input window and a graphic depiction of the 3D volume acquired during the scan session. Alternatively, various parts of the 3D volume can be represented by several 2D slices that are deemed to have poor image quality.

[0050] Furthermore, determining / calculating the image quality values ​​for each part of the 3D area scanned by the ultrasonic scanner is also difficult.

[0051] One method for evaluating image quality is the coherence tomography coefficient. The coherence tomography coefficient is a measure of the coherence tomography of ultrasound data, based on dividing the coherent intensity (the coherent sum of RF data across each channel of the ultrasound scanner) by the incoherent intensity (the sum of the intensities of each channel). This is a known factor in ultrasound imaging, with various modifications known to those skilled in the art.

[0052] However, the coherence tomography coefficient is typically known for evaluating the image quality of 2D ultrasound scans. 2D scans and their corresponding coherence tomography coefficients are based on focused transmission. Conversely, in 3D, unfocused beams at azimuth angles are typically utilized. Therefore, calculating the coherence tomography coefficient is more problematic. One way to calculate the 3D coherence tomography coefficient is to calculate it at the elevation angle dimension where the beam is focused. This evaluates the coherent sum across elevation angles, normalized by the sum of intensity at elevation angles.

[0053] Another way to overcome this problem is to retrospectively refocus the transmitting beam first. Once the transmitting beam is refocused, the coherence tomography coefficient can be calculated in terms of azimuth, or in terms of both azimuth and elevation.

[0054] In summary, the coherence tomography coefficient of 3D ultrasound data may be calculated by computer by determining the coherence tomography coefficient in elevation angle dimensions, or by first refocusing the transmitted beam before calculating the coherence tomography coefficient. Essentially, the coherence tomography coefficient provides an indication of image quality in a portion of the 3D volume (e.g., in each voxel). Blocked portions of the 3D volume are associated with a low coherence coefficient.

[0055] Referring to Figure 2, a flowchart of a method for evaluating the acquisition quality of a subject scan using a 3D ultrasound scanner, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is presented. That is, this method is suitable for assisting in the evaluation / analysis of the quality of ultrasound image data acquired during a subject scan. Such a method may be useful in gaining a better understanding of the quality of the scan being performed by the user / ultrasonic examiner (i.e., whether the scan is being performed in such a way that images of the region of interest of sufficient quality are acquired).

[0056] First, in step 110, ultrasound image data related to the 3D region of the subject is acquired. That is, ultrasound image data generated during the 3D ultrasound scan of the subject is acquired. The 3D region of the subject is the volume / region / area scanned by the 3D ultrasound scanner. For example, the 3D region may correspond to the subject's heart, but may also include surrounding tissues / objects.

[0057] Ultrasound image data can be acquired in real time from a 3D ultrasound scan session. Therefore, methods for evaluating the quality of the scan acquisition can be performed during the scan session, and thus real-time feedback can be provided as described below. Of course, the embodiments are not limited to fact, and data may be processed retrospectively for post-analysis and feedback.

[0058] In step 120, an image quality value is determined for each of several different parts of the 3D region. Each image quality value represents the quality of the ultrasound image data associated with the part of the 3D region. Furthermore, each image quality value is based on the coherence tomography coefficient of the associated ultrasound image data, generalized to the elevation angle dimension.

[0059] In other words, a 3D region can be thought of as containing multiple different parts / regions / areas. For each of these parts, an image quality value is calculated that reflects the image quality (i.e., the usefulness of the ultrasound image obtained from the ultrasound data corresponding to the region).

[0060] Each image quality value is determined based on the calculated coherence value. The use of coherence values ​​is well known in 2D as a metric for evaluating the quality of ultrasound image data. Generally, it is calculated by dividing the coherent tomography intensity by the incoherent intensity. However, in the case of 2D, the scan is based on focused transmission, which is not the case in 3D where a divergent beam is used.

[0061] Therefore, for the coherence tomography coefficient to be significant, it must be generalized to the elevation angle dimension. In other words, the coherence tomography coefficient in the present invention may be the coherent intensity at the elevation angle divided by the incoherent intensity at the elevation angle. Alternatively, the transmitting beam of the ultrasonic scanner may be retrospectively refocused (and thus generalized to the elevation angle dimension), and the coherence tomography coefficient may be calculated in a regular manner.

[0062] As a result, multiple image quality values ​​are obtained for different parts of the 3D volume. These different parts of the 3D volume may be the most granular, or they may be voxels in the 3D region of the subject. This should not be considered limiting, as a set of voxels can be represented by a single image quality value.

[0063] In step 130, the volume of the 3D region to be properly scanned is determined. The portion of the 3D region that is imaged / rendered in a way that is useful to the user (e.g., for diagnosis / analysis) is identified in order to determine the volume of the properly scanned region. For example, such a volume may exclude any portion of the 3D region that is excessively noisy, distorted, blurry, or has low resolution, contrast, sharpness, or a large number of artifacts. That is, if a portion of the obtained imaging volume is excessively noisy, the user may not be able to properly understand / interpret the image (i.e., the image may not reflect the state of the subject within that volume).

[0064] The decision is based on identifying portions of the 3D region that correspond to image quality values ​​that satisfy predetermined conditions. These predetermined conditions are based on at least one of the following: contrast value, resolution value, distortion value, noise value, sharpness value, and artifact density value. Therefore, the coherence tomography coefficient is adapted / interpreted in the previous step to reflect the range of the above values ​​and can be compared to the predetermined conditions to inform the decision of whether the portion of the 3D region is of satisfactory quality.

[0065] In some embodiments, identifying a portion of a 3D region involves evaluating each image quality value based on predetermined conditions. That is, each image quality value is individually evaluated against predetermined conditions in order to identify a portion of the 3D region that is properly scanned. More specifically, it may be evaluated whether the image quality value satisfies and / or exceeds a quality value defined by predetermined conditions.

[0066] In an alternative embodiment, determining the volumes to be properly scanned includes the following (optional) substeps:

[0067] First, in substep 132, a set of quality values ​​is determined, and each set of quality values ​​is associated with a portion of the 3D region in a different image direction. The image direction is the direction extending linearly from the transducer / probe head of the ultrasound scanner. In other words, the image direction is the direction of propagation of the sound waves from the ultrasound device.

[0068] In substep 134, a set of relevant image quality values ​​is processed for each image direction. This determines a set quality value that indicates the quality of the ultrasound image data in each image direction. In its simplest form, the set quality value may simply be the average of the image quality values ​​for the portion of the 3D region in the image direction. However, different image values ​​may be given different weights, or other statistical methods may be used to determine the set quality value.

[0069] In substep 136, the volume of the subject to be properly scanned is determined based on identifying the image orientation associated with a set quality value that satisfies predetermined conditions. Similarly, the set quality value is compared with predetermined conditions to determine whether a portion of the 3D region has been properly scanned in a given orientation. Overall, this can provide a set of image orientations that are properly scanned and a set of image orientations that are not scanned. This can be relatively easy for the user to see and understand.

[0070] In (optional) step 140, a signal is generated containing information for displaying a visual indication describing a volume of the 3D region. The signal is suitable for controlling the display to present a visual indication describing a volume of the properly scanned 3D region. The visual indication may be any visual means by which the user can verify that a volume has been properly scanned / is being scanned.

[0071] In certain embodiments, the visual indication may include a set of lines representing the boundaries of the volume. This could be a simple set of lines that define areas that decrease or increase as a particular portion of the volume is properly scanned and imaged, as seen in Figure 1.

[0072] Furthermore, the visual indication may include an image representing at least a portion of the 3D region of the subject overlaid by a set of lines. The image may represent the anatomical structure of the subject being imaged. For example, the image may be of the heart, with lines clearly indicating which part of the heart has been properly imaged.

[0073] In (optional) step 122, the ultrasound image data is processed to determine the location of structures of the subject in 3D regions that interfere with ultrasound imaging of the subject. Processing may be performed using any known method, such as processing the B-mode component of the ultrasound image data based on an image analysis algorithm and / or processing the channel component of the ultrasound image data based on a signal processing algorithm.

[0074] Therefore, determining the volume of the 3D region is further based on the determined location of the structure. That is, the location of the structure can determine which part of the 3D region was properly scanned.

[0075] For example, a structure may include at least one rib of the subject, or the lung when the region of interest is the heart. Other structures would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. If a structure is located between the transducer head / probe and a portion of the 3D region, it is unlikely that the portion of the 3D region will be properly scanned.

[0076] In (optional) step 124, the ultrasound image data is processed to determine the position of the transducer of the 3D ultrasound scanner used to acquire the ultrasound image data for the 3D region of the subject. Thus, the volume of the 3D region is also determined based on the determined position of the transducer.

[0077] The position can include the position of the transducer / probe auditory relative to the surface of the subject, as well as the orientation of the transducer. For example, if the transducer is far from the surface of the subject, image quality may be reduced.

[0078] Figure 3 shows a simplified block diagram of system 200 for evaluating the acquisition quality of subject scans using a 3D ultrasound scanner. Specifically, system 200 comprises an interface 210 and a processor 220, and may also (optionally) include a display 230.

[0079] Interface 210 is configured to acquire ultrasound image data related to the 3D region of the subject. This may be acquired directly from the 3D ultrasound scanner or indirectly from a database or other memory storage device. Interface 210 passes the information to processor 220.

[0080] The processor 220 is configured to determine image quality values ​​for each of several different parts of the 3D region. As described above, the image quality values ​​indicate the quality of the ultrasound image data associated with a part of the 3D region, and each image quality value is based on a coherence tomography coefficient of the associated ultrasound image data generalized to the elevation angle dimension.

[0081] Furthermore, the processor 220 is configured, similar to the method described above, to determine the volume of 3D regions to be appropriately scanned based on the identification portion of 3D regions associated with image quality values ​​that satisfy predetermined conditions.

[0082] The processor 220 may also be configured to perform any of steps 120 to 140 described in relation to Figure 2. Specifically, the processor 220 may also be configured to generate a signal containing information for displaying a visual indication describing a volume of a 3D region. The signal is suitable for controlling the display 230 to present a visual indication describing a volume of a properly scanned 3D region.

[0083] Therefore, the processor may then transmit a signal to the display 230. The display 230 may be configured to present an indication of the properly scanned volume to the user / ultrasonic examiner. Next, Figure 4 shows an example of a computer 1000 in which one or more parts of the embodiments may be employed. Various operations described above can utilize the capabilities of computer 1000. For example, one or more parts of a system for obtaining input from a user to control an interface may be incorporated into any element, module, application, and / or component described herein. In this regard, it should be understood that system functional blocks may run on a single computer or be distributed across several computers and locations (e.g., connected via the Internet).

[0084] Computer 1000 includes, but is not limited to, PCs, workstations, laptops, PDAs, palm devices, servers, and storage devices. Generally, with respect to the hardware architecture, computer 1000 may include one or more processors 1010, memory 1020, and one or more I / O devices 1030, which are communicably coupled via a local interface (not shown). The local interface may be, for example, one or more buses or other wired or wireless connections, as are known in the art, but are not limited to. The local interface may have additional elements such as controllers, buffers (caches), drivers, repeaters, and receivers to enable communication. Furthermore, the local interface may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable proper communication between the aforementioned components.

[0085] The processor 1010 is a hardware device for executing software that can be stored in memory 1020. The processor 1010 can be substantially any custom-made or commercially available processor, central processing unit (CPU), digital signal processor (DSP), or auxiliary processor from among several processors associated with computer 1000, and the processor 1010 can be a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip) or microprocessor.

[0086] Memory 1020 may include any one or a combination of volatile memory elements, random access memories (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and static random access memory (SRAM), and non-volatile memory elements (ROM), ROM, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), tape, compact hard disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), hard disk, diskette, cartridge, cassette, etc. Furthermore, memory 1020 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. It should be noted that memory 1020 may have a distributed architecture in which various components are located apart from each other, but can still be accessed by processor 1010.

[0087] The software in memory 1020 may include one or more separate programs, each comprising an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing a logical function. The software in memory 1020 may include, in exemplary embodiments, a suitable operating system (O / S) 1050, a compiler 1060, source code 1070, and one or more applications 1080. As shown in the figure, application 1080 comprises numerous functional components for implementing the features and behaviors of the exemplary embodiment. Application 1080 of computer 1000 may represent various applications, computing units, logic, functional units, processes, behaviors, virtual entities, and / or modules in exemplary embodiments, but this does not mean that application 1080 is limiting.

[0088] The operating system 1050 controls the execution of other computer programs and provides scheduling, input / output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control and related services. It is intended by the inventors that application 1080 for implementing an exemplary embodiment may be applicable to all commercially available operating systems.

[0089] Application 1080 can be a source program, an executable program (object code), a script, or any other entity comprising a set of instructions to be executed. If it is a source program, the program is typically translated via a compiler (such as compiler 1060), assembler, interpreter, etc., which may or may not be contained within memory 1020, so that it functions properly in relation to the O / S 1050. Furthermore, Application 1080 can be written as an object-oriented programming language or procedural programming language having classes of data and methods, having routines, subroutines, and / or functions, and having classes of data and methods, such as, but not limited to, C, C++, C#, Pascal, BASIC, API calls, HTML, XHTML, XML, ASP scripts, JavaScript, FORTRAN, COBOL, Perl, Java, ADA, .NET, etc.

[0090] The I / O device 1030 may include, but is not limited to, input devices such as a mouse, keyboard, scanner, microphone, and camera. Furthermore, the I / O device 1030 may also include output devices, such as, but is not limited to, printers and displays. Finally, the I / O device 1030 may further include, but is not limited to, network interface cards or modulators / demodulators (for accessing remote devices, other files, devices, systems, or networks), radio frequency (RF) or other transceivers, telephone interfaces, bridges, routers, and other devices that communicate both inputs and outputs. The I / O device 1030 also includes components for communicating over various networks, such as the Internet or an intranet.

[0091] If computer 1000 is a PC, workstation, or intelligent device, the software in memory 1020 may further include a Basic Input / Output System (BIOS) (omitted for simplification). The BIOS is a set of essential software routines that initialize and test the hardware at startup, boot the OS 1050, and support data transfer between hardware devices. The BIOS is stored in some type of read-only memory, such as ROM, PROM, EPROM, or EEPROM, and as a result, the BIOS may be executed when computer 800 is started.

[0092] When computer 1000 is running, processor 1010 is configured to execute software stored in memory 1020, communicate data with memory 1020, and generally control the operation of computer 1000 according to the software. Application 1080 and OS 1050 are read whole or partially by processor 1010, possibly buffered within processor 1010, and then executed.

[0093] When Application 1080 is implemented in software, it should be noted that Application 1080 may be stored on virtually any computer-readable medium for use by or in connection with any computer-related system or method. In the context of this document, computer-readable medium may be an electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical device or means that contains or can store a computer program for use by or in connection with any computer-related system or method.

[0094] Application 1080 can be implemented by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device using any computer-readable medium, such as a computer-based system, a system including a processor, or other system capable of fetching instructions from an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device and executing those instructions. In the context of this specification, “computer-readable medium” can be any means capable of storing, communicating, propagating, or transferring a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. A computer-readable medium may be, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium.

[0095] The methods described in relation to Figure 2 and the systems described in relation to Figure 3 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a mixture of both (for example, as firmware running on a hardware device). To the extent that the embodiments are partially or entirely implemented in software, the functional steps shown in the process flowchart may be performed by one or more appropriately programmed physical computing devices, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or graphics processing unit (GPU). Each process, and its individual component steps shown in the flowchart, may be performed by the same or different computing devices. According to the embodiments, a computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program comprising computer program code configured to cause one or more physical computing devices to perform the encoding or decoding method described above when the program is executed on one or more physical computing devices.

[0096] Storage media may include volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM, optical discs (such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs), and magnetic storage media (such as hard disks and tapes). Various storage media may be fixed within a computing device or portable, so that one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into a processor.

[0097] As long as the embodiments are partially or entirely implemented in hardware, the blocks shown in the block diagram of Figure 3 may be separate physical components, logical subdivisions of a single physical component, or all may be implemented as an integrated single physical component. Furthermore, the functionality of one block shown in the drawing may be divided into multiple components in one embodiment, or the functionality of multiple blocks shown in the drawing may be combined into a single component in one embodiment. Hardware components suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). One or more blocks may be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits for performing other functions.

[0098] Variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and performed by those skilled in the art in carrying out the claimed invention, based on a study of the drawings, disclosures, and appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude the plural. A single processor or other unit can fulfill the functions of several items enumerated in the claims. The mere fact that certain means are described in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these means cannot be used advantageously. Where a computer program is described above, it may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but it may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Where the term “adapted” is used in the claims or description, it should be noted that the term “adapted” is intended to be equivalent to the term “configured to.” No reference numeral in the claims should be construed as limiting in scope.

[0099] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of the system, method, and computer program product according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or part of an instruction, comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions described in a block may occur out of the order shown in the figure. For example, two consecutively shown blocks may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or in reverse order depending on the function the blocks are involved in. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in the block diagram and / or flowchart, may be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs a specified function or operation, or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A method for evaluating the quality of a scan of a subject using a 3D ultrasound scanner, The steps include acquiring ultrasound image data related to the 3D region of the subject, A step of determining an image quality value for each of several different parts of the 3D region, which indicates the quality of the ultrasonic image data associated with the part of the 3D region, wherein each image quality value is based on the coherence factor of the associated ultrasonic image data in the elevation angle dimension of the 3D region. A step of determining the volume of the 3D region having a predetermined minimum acquisition quality, based on the step of identifying a portion of the 3D region associated with image quality values ​​that satisfy predetermined conditions, wherein the predetermined conditions are based on at least one of contrast value, resolution value, distortion value, noise value, sharpness value, and artifact density value. A method having

2. The step of generating a signal having information for displaying a visual indication that describes the volume of the 3D region. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the visual indication has a set of lines representing the boundary of the volume.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the visual indication has an image representing at least a portion of the 3D region of the subject overlaid by the set of lines.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the step of identifying a portion of the 3D region comprises the step of evaluating each of the image quality values ​​based on the predetermined conditions.

6. The step of identifying a portion of the 3D region is: A step of determining a set of image quality values, wherein each set of image quality values ​​relates to a portion of the 3D region in a different image direction, The steps include: processing a set of associated image quality values ​​for each image direction to determine a set quality value that indicates the quality of the ultrasonic image data in that image direction; Based on the step of identifying an image orientation associated with a set quality value that satisfies the predetermined conditions, the step of determining the volume of the subject having a predetermined minimum acquisition quality. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising the step of processing the ultrasound image data to determine the location of a structure of the subject within the 3D region that interferes with the ultrasound imaging of the subject, wherein the step of determining the volume of the 3D region is further based on the determined location of the structure.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the step of determining the position of the structure comprises processing the B-mode component of the ultrasound image data based on an image analysis algorithm, or processing the channel component of the ultrasound image data based on a signal processing algorithm.

9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the structure has at least one rib of the subject.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising the step of processing the ultrasound image data to determine the position of a transducer of a 3D ultrasound scanner used to acquire the ultrasound image data for a 3D region of the subject, wherein the step of determining the volume of the 3D region is further based on the determined position of the transducer.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the multiple different parts of the 3D region of the subject is a voxel of the 3D region of the subject.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the step of acquiring the ultrasound image data comprises acquiring the ultrasound image data from a 3D ultrasound scan session in real time, and the step of determining the volume is performed during the scan session.

13. A computer program having computer program code means adapted to carry out the method described in any one of claims 1 to 12 when the computer program is executed on a computer.

14. A system for evaluating the quality of scans of a subject using a 3D ultrasound scanner, An interface configured to acquire ultrasound image data related to the 3D region of the subject, It is a processor, A step of determining an image quality value for each of a plurality of different parts of the 3D region, which indicates the quality of the ultrasonic image data associated with the part of the 3D region, wherein each image quality value is based on the coherence factor of the associated ultrasonic image data in the elevation angle dimension of the 3D region. A step of determining the volume of the 3D region having a predetermined minimum acquisition quality, based on the step of identifying a portion of the 3D region associated with image quality values ​​that satisfy predetermined conditions, wherein the predetermined conditions are based on at least one of contrast value, resolution value, distortion value, noise value, sharpness value, and artifact density value. A processor and A system that has

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