Image analysis device, control method for image analysis device, image analysis system, and control method for image analysis system

Abstract

The present invention provides an image analysis device which outputs, in in real time during a procedure using the balloon catheter, evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment with respect to a subject. An image analysis device according to the present invention is provided with: an input unit which is used to input captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image of the balloon catheter that is in a state of being inserted into an organ of the subject and being pressed against the inner surface of the organ; a processing unit which carries out image processing on the captured image that is based on the captured image data input by the input unit to obtain image data for evaluation of a two-dimensional image for evaluation and which obtains, on the basis of the image data for evaluation, evaluation information pertaining to the state of the balloon catheter that is being pressed against the inner surface of the organ; and an output unit which outputs the evaluation information obtained by the processing unit.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image analysis device, a control method for an image analysis device, an image analysis system, and a control method for an image analysis system. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a catheter is inserted into an organ such as a blood vessel to examine or treat a lesion. For example, a support system has been proposed in which the contact state between the catheter and the myocardium, etc. is investigated in advance, digitized, and the procedure is performed while the results are displayed on a screen (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). Also, a system has been proposed that determines and displays the catheter position during ablation in real time (see, for example, Patent Document 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-148142 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2017-94073 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2019-103809 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Here, ablation using a balloon catheter in balloon catheter therapy is a technique in which the balloon is pressed against the myocardium to transmit heat to the entire contact area, treating multiple points at once. For example, the Satake Hot Balloon (registered trademark) used in this balloon catheter therapy controls the temperature with a coil electrode inside the balloon and a thermocouple welded to the coil electrode.

[0005] The inventors of this application have confirmed that when the positional relationship of the balloon control part (the end of the sheath and the tip tube) changes during cauterization, the surface temperature of the balloon changes. In addition, doctors are looking for a device that makes it easier to determine whether the temperature of the balloon is being properly transferred to the myocardium during the procedure.

[0006] Thus, for effective procedures using a balloon catheter, it is important to evaluate the coaxiality of the end of the sheath and the tip tube, which indicates that the controlled temperature of the balloon and the surface temperature of the actual balloon are the same, and to evaluate the shape, which indicates that the balloon is in contact with the ablation point.

[0007] Therefore, in the present invention, the coaxiality of the catheter is evaluated by detecting the end of the sheath and the tip tube by applying image processing to the X-ray fluoroscopic image used by the doctor during the procedure.Then, the size of the balloon before being pressed against the myocardium is estimated from the number of pixels of the balloon detected on the X-ray fluoroscopic image, and the balloon deformation amount before and after the procedure is quantified by comparing it with the balloon size calculated from the input image, and an image analysis device that can output an index during ablation treatment by processing and displaying this information in real time has been developed.

[0008] Thus, an object of the present invention is to provide an image analysis device capable of outputting evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment of a subject (e.g., a human) in real time during a procedure using a balloon catheter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An image analyzing device according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention is an image analyzing device that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment of a subject, and is characterized by comprising: an input unit for inputting captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image of a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of the subject and pressed against an inner surface of the organ; a processing unit that performs image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit to obtain evaluation image data of a two-dimensional evaluation image, and obtains evaluation information regarding the state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the evaluation image data; and an output unit that outputs the evaluation information obtained by the processing unit.

[0010] In the image processing, the processing unit acquires the evaluation information including measurement values ​​of the shape of the balloon catheter contained in the captured image or indexes calculated based on the measurement values, and the output unit outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit.

[0011] In the above image analysis device, the output unit is a display device that displays the evaluation information to the outside.

[0012] The captured image is a two-dimensional X-ray fluoroscopic image captured by fluoroscopically viewing the balloon catheter located in the organ of the subject using X-rays.

[0013] In the image analysis device, the balloon catheter is characterized by comprising a sheath, a catheter tube housed within the sheath, a balloon having one end connected to an end of the sheath, and a tip tube connected to the other end of the balloon and leading the sheath.

[0014] In the image processing, the processing unit performs noise reduction processing, shading detection processing or pattern matching processing on the captured image input by the input unit, and detects from the captured image the balloon located within the organ of the subject, an end of the sheath or an end of the catheter tube contacting one end of the balloon, and a tip tube contacting the other end of the balloon.

[0015] In the image processing, the processing unit detects the balloon from the captured image by executing a Sobel filter process or a ring filter process on the captured image.

[0016] In the image processing, the processing unit detects the end of the sheath and the tip tube from near the edge of the balloon detected from the captured image using a rectangle detection filter.

[0017] In the image processing, the size of a first rectangular detection filter for detecting the end of the sheath is different from the size of a second rectangular detection filter for detecting the tip tube, and the sizes of the first and second rectangular detection filters are set to sizes that do not interfere with the wire.

[0018] In the image processing, the processing unit acquires, as the evaluation information, coaxiality indicating a relationship between the end of the sheath or a first axial direction of the catheter tube and a second axial direction of the tip tube, detected from the image-processed captured image.

[0019] In the image processing, the processing unit calculates a first angle in the first axial direction of the end of the sheath relative to a reference direction in the two-dimensional captured image, and a second angle in the second axial direction of the tip tube relative to the reference direction, and acquires an angle difference between the first angle and the second angle as the evaluation information of the coaxiality.

[0020] In the image processing, the processing unit obtains a first pixel number, which is the total number of pixels in the captured image corresponding to a detected first shape of the balloon, obtains a second pixel number, which is the total number of pixels in the captured image corresponding to a theoretical second shape of the balloon before being pressed against the inner surface of the organ, and evaluates the shape of the balloon pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the difference between the first pixel number and the second pixel number.

[0021] In the image processing, the processing unit detects a first contact point between the detected edge of the balloon and the end of the sheath and a second contact point between the detected edge of the balloon and the distal end tube, calculates a length of a line segment connecting the detected first contact point and the second contact point as a diameter of the balloon before being pressed against the inner surface of the organ, calculates a first balloon area of ​​a first shape of the balloon whose edge is detected in a pressed state pressed against the inner surface of the organ, and calculates a first balloon area of ​​the balloon before being pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the calculated balloon diameter and the first balloon area. The method is characterized in that a theoretical second shape of a circle or ellipse of the loon is obtained, the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state is divided into a plurality of regions and an area of ​​each of the divided regions of the first shape is calculated, the theoretical second shape of the balloon is divided into a plurality of regions in a similar manner to the division of the first shape and an area of ​​each of the divided regions of the second shape is calculated, and the area of ​​each region of the first shape of the balloon is compared with the area of ​​each region of the second shape of the balloon for each region that corresponds in position in the captured image, thereby calculating a rate of change of the shape of the balloon due to being pressed against the inner surface of the organ.

[0022] In the image processing, the processing unit divides the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into the plurality of regions along the line segment, and divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon into the plurality of regions along the line segment.

[0023] In the image processing, the processing unit divides the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into the multiple regions centered on the line segment, and divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon into the multiple regions centered on the line segment.

[0024] In the image processing, the processing unit divides the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into six regions by dividing the line segment into sections each of 1 / 3 of the length of the line segment and centering on the line segment, and divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon into six regions by dividing the line segment into sections each of 1 / 3 of the length of the line segment and centering on the line segment.

[0025] The image analysis device further includes a storage unit that stores the evaluation information.

[0026] In the image processing, the processing unit evaluates fluctuations in coaxiality of the balloon catheter within a predetermined period during the balloon catheter treatment by performing analysis of a video based on the captured images input from the input unit during the balloon catheter treatment.

[0027] In the image processing, the processing unit is characterized in that it evaluates the change in the shape of the balloon of the balloon catheter within a predetermined period of time during the balloon catheter treatment by performing analysis of a video based on the captured image input from the input unit during the balloon catheter treatment.

[0028] A control method for an image analysis device according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention is an image analysis device that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment on a subject, the control method for an image analysis device comprising an input unit for inputting captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image of a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of the subject and pressed against the inner surface of the organ, a processing unit, and an output unit, wherein the processing unit performs image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit to obtain evaluation image data of a two-dimensional evaluation image, and obtains evaluation information regarding the state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the evaluation image data, and the output unit outputs the evaluation information obtained by the processing unit.

[0029] An image analysis system according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention is an image analysis system that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter therapy on a subject, the image analysis system comprising: an imaging device that acquires captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image by imaging a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of the subject and pressed against an inner surface of the organ; and an image analysis device that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter therapy on the subject based on the captured image data of the captured image, the image analysis device comprising: an input unit for inputting captured image data of the two-dimensional captured image acquired by the captured image; a processing unit that performs image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit to acquire evaluation image data of a two-dimensional evaluation image, and acquires evaluation information regarding a state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the evaluation image data; and an output unit that outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit.

[0030] A control method for an image analysis system according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention is an image analysis system that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment for a subject, the control method including: an imaging device that acquires captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image by imaging a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of the subject and pressed against an inner surface of the organ; and an image analysis device that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment for the subject based on the captured image data of the captured image, the image analysis device including an input unit for inputting captured image data of the two-dimensional captured image obtained by imaging the balloon catheter inserted into the organ of the subject and pressed against an inner surface of the organ, a processing unit, and an output unit, the processing unit performing image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit to acquire evaluation image data of the two-dimensional evaluation image, and acquiring evaluation information regarding a state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the evaluation image data, and the output unit outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit. Effect of the Invention

[0031] An image analysis device according to one aspect of the present invention can output evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment of a subject in real time during a procedure using a balloon catheter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration including an image analysis system including an image analysis device 100 according to an embodiment, and a balloon catheter system 10 applied to balloon catheter treatment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration in the vicinity of a balloon of a balloon catheter in an inflated state. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a diagram showing an example of the configuration in the vicinity of the balloon of a balloon catheter in a deflated state. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image analyzing device 100 shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control method for the image analyzing device 100 shown in FIG. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of image processing for executing Sobel filter processing and ring filter processing for detecting a balloon in a captured image. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of image processing for performing shading calculation radially from the center point of the balloon detected by the processing of FIG. 5A and executing processing for detecting the edge of the balloon. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a diagram showing an example of image processing that executes a rectangle detection filter process for detecting the end of the sheath and the distal tube in the captured image. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a diagram showing an example of image processing for calculating the angle difference between the end of the sheath and the tip tube in a captured image. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a model of the rectangle detection filter process shown in FIG. 5C. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of details of the step of evaluating the shape in the control flow shown in FIG. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of a two-dimensional image of a balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface (myocardium) of an organ of a subject, acquired in image processing. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing an example in which the two-dimensional image of the balloon shown in FIG. 8A is superimposed on the theoretical outline of the balloon before it is pressed. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a diagram showing an example of a model in which the theoretical shape of the balloon before compression shown in FIG. 8B is divided into a plurality of regions along line segments connecting one end and the other end. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D is a diagram showing an example of a model in which the theoretical shape of the balloon before compression shown in FIG. 8B is divided into a plurality of regions along line segments connecting one end and the other end. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of evaluation information displayed by the display unit when the output unit D shown in FIG. 2 is a display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the specific examples shown in the drawings. In the drawings attached to this specification, the scale and the aspect ratio are appropriately changed and exaggerated from those of the actual objects for the convenience of illustration and understanding. In addition, the terms "parallel," "orthogonal," "same," and the values ​​of length and angle that specify the shape and geometric conditions and their degree, for example, are not bound by the strict meaning, but are interpreted to include the range in which the same function can be expected.

[0034] In the embodiment described below, a balloon catheter applied to balloon catheter treatment for arrhythmia such as atrial fibrillation will be described as an example of a balloon catheter that is inserted into an organ of a subject (e.g., a human) and pressed against the inner surface of the organ, but the invention can also be applied to balloon catheters for treating other conditions such as endometriosis and cancer.

[0035] Here, Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration including an image analysis system 1000 including an image analysis device 100 according to an embodiment, and a balloon catheter system 10 applied to balloon catheter treatment. Fig. 2A is a diagram showing an example of a configuration near the balloon of a balloon catheter in an inflated state. Fig. 2B is a diagram showing an example of a configuration near the balloon of a balloon catheter in a deflated state.

[0036] First, a balloon catheter system 10 that is applied to a balloon catheter treatment for a subject will be described.

[0037] 1, a balloon catheter system 10 includes a balloon catheter 15, a control device 70 and a stirring device 75 connected to the balloon catheter 15. The balloon catheter 15 also includes a catheter body 20 having a longitudinal direction LD, and a handle 50 connected to the proximal end of the catheter body 20.

[0038] 2A, the catheter main body 20 has a balloon 25, an outer cylindrical shaft 30 connected to a proximal end 25b of the balloon 25, an inner cylindrical shaft 35 connected to a distal end 25a of the balloon 25, and a heating member 40 disposed within the balloon 25. The inner cylindrical shaft 35 passes through the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and extends into the balloon 25. A liquid delivery path LP leading to the inside of the balloon 25 is formed between the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35. The heating member 40 heats the liquid within the balloon 25.

[0039] The longitudinal direction LD of the catheter main body 20 is specified as the direction in which the central axis of the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35 extending from the outer cylindrical shaft 30 extends. In this specification, the "distal" side used for each configuration of the balloon catheter 15 and the catheter main body 20 means the side away from the operator (surgeon) of the handle 50 and the balloon catheter 15 along the longitudinal direction LD of the catheter main body 20, in other words, the tip side. In addition, the "proximal" side used for each configuration of the balloon catheter 15 and the catheter main body 20 means the side close to the operator (surgeon) of the handle 50 and the balloon catheter 15 along the longitudinal direction LD of the catheter main body 20, in other words, the base end side.

[0040] The balloon catheter system 10 and the balloon catheter 15 will be described in further detail below. First, the catheter body 20 of the balloon catheter 15 will be described in detail. As described above, the catheter body 20 of the balloon catheter 15 has the balloon 25, the outer cylindrical shaft 30, the inner cylindrical shaft 35, the heating member 40, and the temperature sensor 45.

[0041] Among these, the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35 are both configured to be tubular, typically cylindrical. Therefore, the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35 each form a lumen as an internal space. For example, a guide wire (not shown) is inserted into the lumen formed by the inner tube shaft 35. The inner tube shaft 35 is inserted into the lumen formed by the outer tube shaft 30. That is, the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35 have a double tube shaft configuration. The inner diameter of the outer tube shaft 30 is larger than the outer diameter of the inner tube shaft 35. Therefore, a lumen remains between the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35. This lumen between the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35 forms a liquid feed path LP. As shown in FIG. 2A, the liquid feed path LP is connected to the inside of the balloon 25. In addition, the liquid feed path LP extends into the handle 50.

[0042] A balloon 25 is connected to the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35. The balloon 25 is formed so as to be expandable by filling with liquid and contractable by discharging the liquid. The balloon 25 preferably has a shape that can fit a target site (e.g., blood vessel) to be treated. As an example, a spherical shape with a diameter of 15 mm to 40 mm can be adopted as the shape of the balloon 25 that fits the pulmonary vein junction of the left atrium. Here, the spherical shape includes a perfect sphere, an oblate spheroid, and an oblong spheroid, and further includes a substantially spherical shape.

[0043] 2A and 2B, in the illustrated catheter main body 20, the distal end (tip) 25a of the balloon 25 is fixed to the distal end (tip) 35a of the inner cylindrical shaft 35. The proximal end (base end) 25b of the balloon 25 is fixed to the distal end (tip) 30a of the outer cylindrical shaft 30. The balloon 25 can be connected to the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35 by bonding or heat welding.

[0044] The balloon 25 connected to the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35 is deformed by the relative movement of the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35 in the longitudinal direction LD. In the illustrated example, the size of the balloon 25 in the longitudinal direction LD can be adjusted by the relative movement of the outer tube shaft 30 and the inner tube shaft 35. As shown in FIG. 2B, the inner tube shaft 35 moves relative to the outer tube shaft 30 toward the distal side in the longitudinal direction LD, so that the balloon 25 is stretched in the longitudinal direction LD and becomes more tense. In the illustrated example, the movement range of the inner tube shaft 35 toward the distal side in the longitudinal direction LD relative to the outer tube shaft 30 is restricted by the balloon 25. The balloon 25 becomes relaxed by the relative movement of the inner tube shaft 35 from the state shown in FIG. 2B toward the proximal side in the longitudinal direction LD relative to the outer tube shaft 30. By introducing liquid into the inside of the relaxed balloon 25, the balloon 25 can be inflated as shown in FIG. 2A. That is, the size of the balloon 25 in the longitudinal direction LD can be adjusted by moving the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35 relative to each other.

[0045] The heating member 40 is disposed inside the balloon 25. The heating member 40 is a member for heating the liquid filled in the balloon 25. As an example, a nichrome wire that generates heat by electrical resistance can be used as the heating member 40. As another example of the heating member 40, a coil electrode 41 can be used as shown in Figs. 2 and 3. By applying high-frequency current to the heating member 40 as the coil electrode 41, a high-frequency current flows between the coil electrode 41 and an externally disposed counter electrode 77 (Fig. 1), and the liquid located between the coil electrode 41 and the counter electrode 77 generates Joule heat. The counter electrode 77 is disposed, for example, on the back of the patient.

[0046] 2A and 2B, the coil electrode 41 is provided on the inner cylindrical shaft 35 extending inside the balloon 25. The coil electrode 41 may be formed of a conductive wire wound around the inner cylindrical shaft 35. The coil electrode 41 is electrically connected to a wiring 42 for high-frequency current flow. The wiring 42 extends to the handle 50 inside the liquid delivery path LP as a lumen between the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35.

[0047] The temperature sensor 45 obtains information relating to the temperature of the liquid. The temperature sensor 45 has a heat-sensing part 46 disposed in the liquid sending path LP located between the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35.

[0048] For the purpose of determining the surface temperature of the balloon 25 with high accuracy, the preferred length DX along the longitudinal direction LD of the outer tubular shaft from the distal end 30a of the outer tubular shaft 30 to the heat-sensing portion 46 of the temperature sensor 45 strictly depends on the amount of liquid supplied and discharged by the stirring device 75 described later.

[0049] 2A and 2B, the temperature sensor 45 typically has a heat-sensing part 46 and a lead wire 47 electrically connected to the heat-sensing part 46. In the temperature sensor 45 as a thermocouple, the part where dissimilar metals are connected forms the heat-sensing part 46. In the temperature sensor 45 as a thermistor, a ceramic element forms the heat-sensing part 46. The lead wire 47 extends to the handle 50 through the liquid sending path LP as a lumen between the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35.

[0050] In the illustrated example, the temperature sensor 45 is attached to the inner cylindrical shaft 35. As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the lead wires 47 of the temperature sensor 45 are fixed, thereby attaching the temperature sensor 45 to the inner cylindrical shaft 35. The heat sensing part 46 is separated from both the outer cylindrical shaft 30 and the inner cylindrical shaft 35.

[0051] The handle 50 is a portion that is held by an operator (surgeon) while using the balloon catheter system 10, as shown in FIG.

[0052] 1 has a first handle portion 51 and a second handle portion 52 which are slidable relative to each other. The first handle portion (front handle portion) 51 is connected to the outer cylindrical shaft 30 of the catheter body 20. The second handle portion (rear handle portion) 52 is connected to the inner cylindrical shaft 35 of the catheter body 20. By moving the second handle portion 52 relative to the first handle portion 51, the inner cylindrical shaft 35 can be moved relative to the outer cylindrical shaft 30.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the handle 50 also serves as a connection point between the balloon catheter 15 and other devices included in the balloon catheter system 10.

[0054] First, a connector 56 extends from the second handle portion 52. This connector 56 electrically connects the wiring 42 of the catheter main body 20 and the lead wire 47 of the temperature sensor 45 to an external control device 70. The connector 56 extends from one of a plurality of branch portions 52a provided on the second handle portion 52.

[0055] The second handle portion 52 has branches 52b and 52c other than the branch 52a to which the connector 56 is connected. These branches 52b and 52c function as portions for supplying liquid to the lumen, which is the internal space of the inner cylindrical shaft 35, and as portions from which a guide wire inserted into the lumen of the inner cylindrical shaft 35 extends. During cardiac ablation treatment, it is common to eject a small amount of physiological saline solution, about 100 ml per hour, into the body through the lumen of the inner cylindrical shaft 35. By ejecting physiological saline solution, backflow of blood into the lumen of the inner cylindrical shaft 35 can be effectively prevented.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 1, an extension tube 57 extends from the first handle portion 51. This extension tube 57 connects the liquid feed path LP of the catheter main body 20 to an external supply device 74 or agitation device 75. The extension tube 57 extends from a branch portion 51a provided in the first handle portion 51. The extension tube 57 is connected to the supply device 74 and the agitation device 75 via a valve 58. In the illustrated example, by operating the valve 58, it is possible to select whether the supply device 74 or the agitation device 75 is to be connected to the liquid feed path LP. A three-way stopcock can be used as the valve 58.

[0057] Next, the devices constituting the balloon catheter system 10 together with the balloon catheter 15 described above, specifically, the control device 70, the supply device 74, and the stirring device 75, will be described.

[0058] The illustrated control device 70 is electrically connected to the coil electrode 41 via the wiring 42. The control device 70 has a high-frequency current control unit 70A that controls high-frequency current to the coil electrode 41. In the illustrated example, the high-frequency current control unit 70A controls high-frequency current to the coil electrode 41, thereby adjusting the output from the heating member 40. The high-frequency current control unit 70A can control high-frequency current to the coil electrode 41 based on the surface temperature of the balloon 25 specified by a temperature calculation unit 70B described later, or according to a preset process, or according to an input from an operator.

[0059] The control device 70 is also electrically connected to the lead wire 47 of the temperature sensor 45. The control device 70 has a temperature calculation unit 70B that calculates information related to the temperature acquired by the inner cylindrical shaft 35. The temperature calculation unit 70B calculates the liquid temperature in the liquid sending path LP based on the information related to the temperature acquired by the temperature sensor 45, and further estimates the surface temperature of the balloon 25 based on the calculated liquid temperature. The temperature calculation unit 70B may display the identified surface temperature of the balloon 25 on the display unit 71.

[0060] Furthermore, the control device 70 has an agitator control section 70C that controls the agitator 75. The agitator control section 70C may display the control conditions of the agitator 75 on the display section 71.

[0061] The supply device 74 also supplies liquid into the liquid feed path LP. By supplying liquid from the supply device 74 to the balloon 25 through the liquid feed path LP, the balloon 25 can be inflated as shown in FIG. 2. On the other hand, the balloon 25 can be deflated by discharging liquid from the balloon 25 through the liquid feed path LP from the supply device 74. The liquid supplied into the liquid feed path LP can typically be physiological saline. As shown in the figure, a syringe can be used as the supply device 74. However, a pump or the like can also be used as the supply device 74.

[0062] Further, the stirring device 75 is provided to stir the liquid in the balloon 25. By stirring the liquid in the balloon 25, it is possible to disperse or homogenize the heat supplied into the balloon 25 and adjust the surface temperature of the balloon 25. The stirring device 75 repeatedly supplies the liquid to the liquid sending path LP and discharges the liquid from the liquid sending path LP.

[0063] Next, an image analysis system 1000 that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment of a subject will be described.

[0064] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the image analysis system 1000 includes an imaging device 200 that acquires captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image, and an image analysis device 100 that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment of a subject.

[0065] The imaging device 200 is adapted to, for example, image a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of a subject (a pulmonary vein in the left atrium of the heart) and pressed against an inner surface of the organ (e.g., myocardium) in response to an operation by an operator. The imaging device 200 is adapted to image using X-rays. That is, in this embodiment, the image is a two-dimensional X-ray fluoroscopic image obtained by fluoroscopically imaging the balloon catheter located in the organ of the subject using X-rays.

[0066] Furthermore, the image analysis device 100 is configured to output evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment of a subject, for example, in response to an operation by an operator, based on captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image acquired by the imaging device 200, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0067] It should be noted that the image analyzing device 100 may be configured, for example, in an integrated manner with the control device 70 already described.

[0068] Here, Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image analyzing device 100 shown in Fig. 1. This image analyzing device 100 includes, for example, an input unit IN, a processing unit Y, an output unit D, and a storage unit M, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0069] The input unit IN is adapted to input picked-up image data of a two-dimensional picked-up image of the balloon catheter inserted into an organ of a subject and pressed against the inner surface of the organ.

[0070] The processing unit Y also acquires evaluation image data of a two-dimensional evaluation image by executing image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit IN. The processing unit Y then acquires evaluation information on the state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface (myocardium) of the subject's organ based on the acquired evaluation image data. In particular, the processing unit Y acquires evaluation information including measurement values ​​obtained by measuring the shape of the balloon catheter included in the captured image or indexes calculated based on the measurement values ​​in the image processing.

[0071] The processing unit Y is configured with hardware such as a CPU. At least a part of the processing unit Y may be configured with software. In addition, some of the components of the processing unit Y may be capable of cooperating with the above-mentioned control device 70 through communication via a network.

[0072] Moreover, the output unit D is configured to output the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit Y. This output unit D is, for example, a display device that displays the evaluation information to the outside.

[0073] The storage unit M stores the captured image data, the evaluation image data, and / or the evaluation information. The storage unit M is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a NAND type flash memory.

[0074] Next, a control method of the image analyzing device 100 having the above configuration will be described. Here, FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control method of the image analyzing device 100 shown in FIG. 3. Also, FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of image processing for executing Sobel filter processing and ring filter processing to detect a balloon in a captured image. Also, FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of image processing for performing a process of performing a shading calculation radially from the balloon center point detected by the process of FIG. 5A to detect the edge of the balloon. Also, FIG. 5C is a diagram showing an example of image processing for performing a rectangle detection filter process to detect the end of the sheath and the tip tube in the captured image. Also, FIG. 5D is a diagram showing an example of image processing for calculating the angle difference between the end of the sheath and the tip tube in the captured image. Also, FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a model of the rectangle detection filter process shown in FIG. 5C.

[0075] First, the imaging device 200 acquires captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image, for example, by imaging a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of a subject during a procedure and pressed against the inner surface (myocardium) of the organ in response to operation by an operator.

[0076] Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, the input unit IN of the image analyzing device 100 inputs captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image of a balloon catheter inserted into an organ of a subject during a procedure and pressed against the inner surface (myocardium) of the organ, which is output from the imaging device 200 (step S1 in FIG. 4).

[0077] Next, in the image processing, the processing unit Y executes noise reduction processing, grayscale detection processing, or pattern matching processing on the captured image input by the input unit IN.

[0078] Then, in image processing, the processing unit Y detects the balloon B of the balloon catheter from the captured image (step S2 in FIG. 4).

[0079] Here, in the captured image that has been image-processed, the balloon catheter includes, for example, a sheath C (corresponding to the outer cylindrical shaft 30 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2A, and FIG. B2), a catheter tube (corresponding to the inner cylindrical shaft 35 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2A, and FIG. 2B) housed in the sheath C, a balloon B (corresponding to the balloon 25 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2A, and FIG. 2B) whose one end (proximal end 25b of the balloon 25 shown in FIG. 2B) B1 is connected to the end of the sheath C, and a tip tube A (corresponding to the distal end (tip) 35a of the inner cylindrical shaft 35) connected to the other end B2 (corresponding to the distal end 25a of the balloon 25 in FIG. 2B) of the balloon B, which is continuous with the catheter tube and leads the sheath C, as shown in FIG. 5A, for example. In this case, in the image processing, the processing unit Y detects the balloon B from the captured image by performing a Sobel filter process and a ring filter process on the captured image, as shown in FIG. 5A. Here, the processing unit Y may detect the balloon B by performing only one of the Sobel filter process and the ring filter process on the captured image.

[0080] Next, in image processing, the processing unit Y detects the edge of the balloon B of the balloon catheter to obtain the shape of the balloon B in the captured image (step S3 in FIG. 4). Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, shading calculation is performed radially (for example, at 2° intervals) from the center of the balloon B detected by the processing in FIG. 5A, the brightness change point is measured, and the edge BE is plotted.

[0081] Next, in image processing, the processing unit Y detects the end of the sheath C and the tip tube A (step S4 in FIG. 4). For example, as shown in FIG. 5C, in image processing, the processing unit Y detects the end of the sheath C and the tip tube A from the vicinity of one end B1 or the other end B2 (edge ​​BE) of the balloon B detected from the captured image by the first and second rectangle detection filters F1 and F2. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, the processing unit Y rotates the first and second rectangle detection filters F1 and F2 by 0 to 180° (for example, at 2° intervals) around the edge BE (including one end B1 and the other end B2) of the detected balloon B, and detects the one having the closest shape to the rectangle detection filter as the end of the sheath C or the tip tube A.

[0082] In image processing, for example, the size of the first rectangular detection filter F1 for detecting the end of the sheath C is different from the size of the second rectangular detection filter F2 for detecting the tip tube A, and the sizes of the first and second rectangular detection filters F1, F2 are set to sizes that do not interfere with other cables, wires, etc.

[0083] In addition, in image processing, wires and the like that make up the balloon catheter may be detected to evaluate coaxiality, but there are cases in which they cannot be distinguished from other wiring, etc., so more accurate detection can be achieved by detecting the sheath C and tip tube A, which are unique components of the balloon catheter, using first and second rectangular detection filters F1 and F2.

[0084] In this way, the processing unit Y is configured to detect, from the captured image, the balloon B located within the subject's organ, the end of the sheath C (or the end of the catheter tube) contacting one end B1 of the balloon B, and the tip tube A contacting the other end B2 of the balloon B (Figures 5C and 6).

[0085] Next, in image processing, the processor Y evaluates the coaxiality of the balloon catheter in the pressed state (step S5 in FIG. 4). For example, as shown in FIG. 5D, the processor Y acquires (calculates) as evaluation information the coaxiality indicating the relationship between the first axis direction T1, which is the direction of the end of the sheath C or the central axis of the catheter tube, and the second axis direction T2, which is the direction of the central axis of the distal end tube A, detected from the captured image subjected to image processing.

[0086] 5D, in the image processing, the processing unit Y calculates a first angle θ1 of a first axis direction T1 of the end of the sheath C (long side direction of the end of the rectangular sheath C) relative to a reference direction T in a two-dimensional captured image, and a second angle θ2 of a second axis direction T2 of the distal end tube A (long side direction of the rectangular distal end tube A) relative to the reference direction T. Then, the processing unit Y acquires (calculates) an angle difference θd (coaxiality) which is the difference between the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2, as evaluation information of the coaxiality.

[0087] In addition, the processing unit Y evaluates, for example, a state in which the end of the sheath C and the tip tube A are aligned in a straight line with respect to the balloon B (the angle difference between the end of the sheath C and the tip tube A is small) as having high coaxiality.

[0088] In addition, the processing unit Y may be configured to evaluate fluctuations in the coaxiality of the balloon catheter within a specified period of time during balloon catheter treatment by performing analysis of a video based on the captured images input from the input unit IN during balloon catheter treatment.

[0089] Next, in image processing, the processing unit Y evaluates the shape of the balloon catheter in the pressed state (step S6 in FIG. 4). The processing unit Y may also evaluate the change in the shape of the balloon B of the balloon catheter within a predetermined period during the balloon catheter treatment by performing analysis of a moving image based on the captured images input from the input unit IN during the balloon catheter treatment.

[0090] Next, the output unit D outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit Y (step S7 in FIG. 4). Here, the output unit D displays, as the evaluation information, for example, text information on the shape variation and coaxiality, and also displays an evaluation image including notations of the reference direction T, the first angle θ1, the first axis direction T1, the second angle θ2, the second axis direction T2, and the angle difference θd together with the shape of the balloon B, as shown in FIG. 5D.

[0091] Here, FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of details of step S6 of evaluating the shape in the control flow shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of a two-dimensional image of a balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface (myocardium) of an organ of a subject, obtained in image processing. FIG. 8B is a diagram showing an example of superimposing the two-dimensional image of the balloon shown in FIG. 8A and the outer shape of a theoretical balloon before pressing. FIG. 8C is a diagram showing an example of a model in which the shape of the theoretical balloon before pressing shown in FIG. 8B is divided into a plurality of regions along a line segment connecting one end and the other end. FIG. 8D is a diagram showing an example of a model in which the shape of the theoretical balloon before pressing shown in FIG. 8B is divided into a plurality of regions along a line segment connecting one end and the other end.

[0092] In the control flow shown in FIG. 4 described above, in step S6 of evaluating the shape of the balloon B inserted into the subject's organ and pressed against the inner surface K of the organ, first, in image processing, the processing unit Y detects a first contact point B1 between the detected edge of the balloon B and the end of the sheath C (i.e., one end of the balloon B) and a second contact point B2 between the detected edge of the balloon B and the tip tube A (i.e., the other end of the balloon B) (step S61 in FIG. 7, FIG. 8A).

[0093] Next, the processing unit Y calculates the length of the line segment BL connecting the detected first contact point B1 and second contact point B2 as the diameter (if the shape of the balloon B in the captured image is circular), major axis (if the shape of the balloon B in the captured image is elliptical), or minor axis (if the shape of the balloon B in the captured image is elliptical)) of the balloon B in a free state (before being pressed) in which it is not pressed against the inner surface of the organ before the procedure (step S62 in Figure 7).

[0094] Next, the processing unit Y calculates the first balloon area of ​​the first shape of the balloon B, the edge of which is detected in a pressed state against the inner surface of the organ during the procedure (step S63 in FIG. 7).

[0095] Next, the processing unit Y acquires (calculates) a second theoretical circular or elliptical shape of the balloon B in a free state (before being pressed) not pressed against the inner surface of the organ before the procedure based on the calculated diameter, major axis, or minor axis of the balloon B and the first balloon area (step S64 in Figure 7, Figure 8B).

[0096] Next, the processing unit Y divides the first shape of the balloon B in the pressed state into a plurality of regions X1 to X6, and calculates the area of ​​each of the regions X1 to X6 of the divided first shape (step S65 in FIG. 7, FIG. 8C). For example, the processing unit Y divides the first shape of the balloon B in the pressed state into a plurality of regions along the line segment BL. Furthermore, the processing unit Y divides the first shape of the balloon B in the pressed state into a plurality of regions centered on the line segment BL. In particular, in this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 8C, the processing unit Y divides the first shape of the balloon B in the pressed state into six regions X1 to X6 by dividing the first shape of the balloon B in the pressed state into sections each having a length equal to 1 / 3 of the line segment BL along the line segment BL and centering on the line segment BL.

[0097] Furthermore, the processor Y divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon B into a plurality of regions X1 to X6 in the same manner as the division of the first shape, and calculates the area of ​​each of the regions X1 to X6 of the divided second shape (step S65, FIG. 8D). For example, the processor Y divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon B into a plurality of regions along the line segment BL. Furthermore, the processor Y divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon B into a plurality of regions centered on the line segment BL. In particular, in this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 8D, the processor Y divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon B into six regions X1 to X6 by dividing the second shape of the theoretical balloon B into sections each having a length equal to 1 / 3 of the line segment BL along the line segment BL and centering on the line segment BL.

[0098] Here, in this step S65, for example, in image processing, the processing unit Y acquires a first pixel number, which is the total number of pixels in the captured image corresponding to each of the regions X1 to X6 of the detected first shape of the balloon B. Furthermore, the processing unit Y acquires a second pixel number, which is the total number of pixels in the captured image corresponding to each of the regions X1 to X of the theoretical second shape of the balloon B in a free state (before being pressed) not pressed against the inner surface of the organ before the procedure. By acquiring the first and second pixel numbers, it is possible to acquire the area corresponding to each of the regions X1 to X6.

[0099] Next, the processing unit Y calculates the rate of change in the shape of the balloon B due to being pressed against the inner surface of the organ by comparing the area of ​​each of the regions X1 to X6 of the first shape of the balloon B (Figure 8C) with the area of ​​each of the regions X1 to X6 of the second shape of the balloon B (Figure 8D) for each of the regions X1 to X6 that correspond to each other in the captured image (step S66).

[0100] In particular, in this step S66, the processing unit Y can evaluate the shape of the balloon B pressed against the inner surface of the organ during the procedure (obtain the rate of change in shape) based on, for example, the difference between the first number of pixels (i.e., area) and the second number of pixels (i.e., area) in each of the regions X1 to X6 obtained in the above-mentioned step S65.

[0101] In addition, in calculating the above area, it is assumed that the length of the line segment BL connecting the first contact point B1 and the second contact point B2 (the diameter of balloon B) does not change when balloon B is pressed against the inner surface of the organ.

[0102] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of evaluation information displayed by the display unit D shown in FIG. 2 when the output unit D is a display device. The output section (display device) D may further display the captured image G1 together with an evaluation image G2 obtained by image processing and text information A relating to the rate of change in shape and coaxiality, for example, as shown in FIG.

[0103] In the example of Figure 9, the notation of the already-mentioned reference direction T, first angle θ1, first axis direction T1, second angle θ2, second axis direction T2, and angle difference θd is omitted, but for example, notation of the reference direction T, first angle θ1, first axis direction T1, second angle θ2, second axis direction T2, and angle difference θd as shown in Figure 5D may be displayed.

[0104] As described above, the image analyzing device 100 according to this embodiment can output evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment on a subject in real time during a procedure using a balloon catheter.

[0105] As a result, for example, during a balloon catheter treatment on a subject (human), a doctor who is the operator can use the evaluation information output in real time from image analysis device 100 during a balloon catheter procedure to recognize the contact state between the balloon and the myocardium and appropriately determine whether the balloon's surface temperature is being properly transmitted to the myocardium, thereby improving the success rate of the treatment.

[0106] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0107] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be used in a balloon catheter system and a balloon catheter for treating arrhythmia such as atrial fibrillation, endometriosis, cancer, and the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 100 Image analysis device IN Input section Y Processing Part D Output section M storage section

Claims

1. 1. An image analysis device that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment for a subject, an input unit for inputting captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image of the balloon catheter inserted into the organ of the subject and pressed against an inner surface of the organ; a processing unit that performs image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit to obtain evaluation image data of a two-dimensional evaluation image, and obtains evaluation information regarding a state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the evaluation image data; an output unit that outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit; Equipped with The balloon catheter comprises: A sheath, a catheter tube housed within the sheath; a balloon having one end connected to the end of the sheath; a distal tube connected to the other end of the balloon and leading the sheath; Equipped with In the image processing, the processing unit detecting, from the captured image, the balloon located within the organ of the subject, an end of the sheath or an end of the catheter tube in contact with one end of the balloon, and a tip tube in contact with the other end of the balloon; An image analysis device that detects the end of the sheath and the tip tube from near the edge of the balloon detected from the captured image using a rectangle detection filter.

2. 2. The image analysis device according to claim 1, wherein, in the image processing, the processing unit acquires the evaluation information including measurement values ​​of a shape of the balloon catheter included in the captured image or an index calculated based on the measurement values, and the output unit outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit.

3. 2. The image analyzing device according to claim 1, wherein the captured image is a two-dimensional X-ray fluoroscopic image captured by fluoroscopy using X-rays of the balloon catheter located in the organ of the subject.

4. 2. The image analyzing device according to claim 1, wherein, in the image processing, the processing unit performs noise reduction processing, shading detection processing, or pattern matching processing on the captured image input by the input unit, and detects, from the captured image, the balloon located within the organ of the subject, an end of the sheath or an end of the catheter tube contacting one end of the balloon, and the tip tube contacting the other end of the balloon.

5. 2. The image analysis device of claim 1, wherein in the image processing, a size of a first rectangular detection filter for detecting the end of the sheath is different from a size of a second rectangular detection filter for detecting the tip tube, and the sizes of the first and second rectangular detection filters are set to sizes that do not interfere with a wire.

6. The image analyzing device according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein in the image processing, the processing unit detects coaxiality indicating a relationship between a first axial direction of the end of the sheath or the catheter tube and a second axial direction of the tip tube from the image-processed captured image, and acquires the coaxiality as the evaluation information.

7. 7. The image analysis device of claim 6, wherein in the image processing, the processing unit calculates a first angle in the first axial direction of the end of the sheath relative to a reference direction in the two-dimensional captured image, and a second angle in the second axial direction of the tip tube relative to the reference direction, and acquires an angle difference between the first angle and the second angle as the evaluation information of the coaxiality.

8. 8. The image analyzing device according to claim 4, wherein, in the image processing, the processing unit obtains a first pixel number, which is a total number of pixels in the captured image corresponding to a detected first shape of the balloon, obtains a second pixel number, which is a total number of pixels in the captured image corresponding to a theoretical second shape of the balloon before being pressed against the inner surface of the organ, and evaluates the shape of the balloon pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on a difference between the first pixel number and the second pixel number.

9. In the image processing, the processing unit detects a first contact point between the detected edge of the balloon and the end of the sheath and a second contact point between the detected edge of the balloon and the distal end tube, calculates a length of a line segment connecting the detected first contact point and the second contact point as a diameter of the balloon before being pressed against the inner surface of the organ, calculates a first balloon area of ​​a first shape of the balloon whose edge is detected in a pressed state pressed against the inner surface of the organ, and calculates a first balloon area of ​​the balloon before being pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the calculated balloon diameter and the first balloon area.

9. The image analyzing device according to claim 8, further comprising: acquiring a theoretical second shape of a circle or an ellipse; dividing the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into a plurality of regions; calculating an area of ​​each of the divided regions of the first shape; dividing the theoretical second shape of the balloon into a plurality of regions in a similar manner to the division of the first shape; calculating an area of ​​each of the divided regions of the second shape; and comparing the area of ​​each region of the first shape of the balloon with the area of ​​each region of the second shape of the balloon for each region that corresponds in position in the captured image, thereby calculating a rate of change in the shape of the balloon due to being pressed against the inner surface of the organ.

10. In the image processing, the processing unit divides the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into the plurality of regions along the line segments, The image analysis device of claim 9 , further comprising: dividing the second theoretical shape of the balloon into the plurality of regions along the line segments.

11. 11. The image analysis device of claim 10, wherein in the image processing, the processing unit divides the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into the plurality of regions centered on the line segment, and divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon into the plurality of regions centered on the line segment.

12. 12. The image analyzing device of claim 11, wherein, in the image processing, the processing unit divides the first shape of the balloon in the pressed state into six regions by dividing the line segment into sections each of which is 1 / 3 of the length of the line segment and centering on the line segment, and divides the second shape of the theoretical balloon into six regions by dividing the line segment into sections each of which is 1 / 3 of the length of the line segment and centering on the line segment.

13. An image analysis system that outputs evaluation information for use in balloon catheter treatment for a subject, an imaging device that acquires captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image by imaging a balloon catheter that is inserted into an organ of the subject and pressed against an inner surface of the organ; an image analyzer that outputs evaluation information to be used in balloon catheter treatment for the subject based on captured image data of the captured image; Equipped with The image analysis device includes: an input unit for inputting captured image data of a two-dimensional captured image acquired by the captured image; a processing unit that performs image processing on the captured image based on the captured image data input by the input unit to obtain evaluation image data of a two-dimensional evaluation image, and obtains evaluation information regarding a state of the balloon catheter pressed against the inner surface of the organ based on the evaluation image data; an output unit that outputs the evaluation information acquired by the processing unit; Equipped with The balloon catheter comprises: A sheath, a catheter tube housed within the sheath; a balloon having one end connected to the end of the sheath; a distal tube connected to the other end of the balloon and leading the sheath; Equipped with In the image processing, the processing unit detecting, from the captured image, the balloon located within the organ of the subject, an end of the sheath or an end of the catheter tube in contact with one end of the balloon, and a tip tube in contact with the other end of the balloon; An image analysis system that detects the end of the sheath and the tip tube from near the edge of the balloon detected from the captured image using a rectangle detection filter.

14. The image analysis system of claim 13, wherein, in the image processing, the processing unit performs noise reduction processing, shading detection processing or pattern matching processing on the captured image input by the input unit, and detects from the captured image the balloon located within the subject's organ, the end of the sheath or the end of the catheter tube contacting one end of the balloon, and the tip tube contacting the other end of the balloon.

Images