A SYSTEM FOR IMAGING AND QUANTIFYING SUBCUTANEOUS FIBROUS SEPTA BY COMBINING HIGH-FREQUENCY ULTRASOUND AND ELASTOGRAPHY DATA.

Abstract

The invention relates to a system and method for imaging and quantitatively evaluating fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue by combining high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data; the system includes a high-frequency ultrasound probe, contact force sensor, ultrasound-elastography unit, data processing unit, user interface, and data storage module; measurements that do not meet quality criteria are excluded from the analysis by evaluating probe-tissue contact conditions; B-mode ultrasound and elastography data are matched over the same anatomical region and coordinate structure; subcutaneous anatomical layers are segmented to identify fibrous septa candidates, and these candidates are differentiated from fascia, vascular structures, and imaging artifacts; a confidence score is created by evaluating the morphological characteristics and elastographic mechanical measurements of the fibrous septa candidates together; and the depth, thickness, length, and / or continuity of the septa are determined.Quantitative data such as orientation, echogenicity, and mechanical measurements are generated, and the results are presented to the user in the form of two-dimensional and / or three-dimensional anatomical maps and numerical measurements, and stored for use in subsequent evaluations.

Description

1 TARIFF HIGH-FREQUENCY ULTRASOUND OF SUBCUTANEOUS FIBROUS SEPTA. DISPLAYING BY COMBINING ELASTOGRAPHY DATA AND SYSTEM FOR QUANTIFICATION Technical Section: 5 The invention relates to medical imaging, ultrasonic imaging, high-frequency ultrasound, and B-mode ultrasound. imaging, elastography, digital image processing, merging of multimodal image data, It relates to the fields of anatomical segmentation and quantitative tissue mapping techniques; High-frequency ultrasound and especially fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue. Using elastography data, it can be visualized, determined, and quantitatively analyzed. 10 The invention relates to a system and method that enables the evaluation of tissue using an ultrasound probe. Monitoring the contact conditions between them, B-mode and elastography data of the same anatomical region by matching and jointly evaluating the data obtained, fibrous This involves determining the structural and mechanical properties of septa. State of the Art: 15 In the field of medical imaging, ultrasound systems are used to image body tissues and anatomical structures. It is widely used in imaging, especially high-frequency ultrasound. systems, skin, subcutaneous fat tissue, fascia, and connective tissue located between these structures. It allows visualization of the elements. B-mode ultrasound imaging method differences in echogenicity between tissues, anatomical boundaries, and linear or platy echogenicity 20 The structures can be visualized, and the morphological characteristics of the tissues can be analyzed through these images. Their properties can be evaluated. Elastography techniques, on the other hand, allow for the evaluation of the mechanical properties of tissues. It is used for the evaluation of tissue stiffness, shear-wave velocity, and elasticity. or enables the measurement of similar mechanical parameters of subcutaneous fat tissue. 2 In elastography applications aimed at evaluating mechanical properties, the obtained Mechanical measurements have been shown to be related to tissue structure and fibrotic changes. However, mechanical measurements obtained with elastography are mostly limited to a specific region. or reveals the general mechanical properties of the measurement volume, subcutaneous tissue morphological identification of the individual fibrous septa within and 5 belonging to the same septa An integrated imaging system that allows for the individual evaluation of mechanical properties. It does not offer an approach. For the examination of subcutaneous tissues using high-frequency and three-dimensional ultrasound. Studies have shown that the epidermis-dermis complex, subcutaneous adipose tissue, and interlobular connective tissue The study revealed that anatomical structures such as septa, superficial fascia and deep fascia can be visualized. This type of imaging approach allows for the measurement of subcutaneous tissue thickness and fat lobules. in terms of structure, characteristics of connective tissue septa and visualization of some fibrotic areas It can provide information. However, the information obtained in these imaging methods... Morphological data and mechanical data from elastography are on the same anatomical structure. matching, automatic or semi-automatic identification of septa candidates and the 15 identified Reporting structures in a standardized manner based on quantitative parameters is a separate technique. This emerges as a problem. Linear or hyperechoic patterns observed in B-mode images in current ultrasound applications. It is not possible to classify all of these structures as fibrous septa. structures; superficial or deep fascia, vascular structures, connective tissue formations, imaging 20 It may be associated with artifacts or other anatomical structures. Therefore, only B-mode is used. Determining fibrous septa based on echogenic features in the image is a false positive. This can lead to certain results and determine whether the identified structure is indeed a subcutaneous fibrous septum. This can make it difficult to reliably assess whether or not it exists. 3 In addition, the contact force that the ultrasound probe applies to the tissue being examined and the probe's position and angle relative to the tissue, resulting images and elastography measurements. It can have an effect. In particular, changes in probe pressure in elastography measurements. It can alter the mechanical behavior of the tissue and cause differences in measurement results. Similarly, probe angle, scanning speed, movement, and imaging 5 Changes in conditions make it difficult to compare data obtained from the same anatomical region. This can make it difficult. Therefore, comparability between different measurements and To ensure repeatability, measurement conditions must be checked during data collection. This constitutes a technical requirement. Current technical solutions include elastography with high-frequency B-mode ultrasound imaging. 10 The measurements can be used individually or with different imaging techniques during the same examination. It is possible to utilize various modes. However, a specific mode is determined in the B-mode image. Elastography corresponding to the same anatomical location as the geometric characteristics of the fibrous septa candidate. Automatic or semi-automatic matching of data, the matching of that match with the image. Verification in terms of quality and measurement conditions and the results obtained are presented in a single septa 15 an integrated technical solution is needed in terms of combining the evaluation. is required. Furthermore, because the subcutaneous tissue consists of different anatomical layers, septa candidates Determining their correct anatomical positions is important. The epidermis-dermis complex, Subcutaneous fat tissue, superficial fascia, and deep fascia are structures that are not separated from each other. 20 If evaluated, fascia or other connective tissue structures are fibrous septa. It is possible to classify them. Therefore, the anatomical layers should be classified first. identification and selection of fibrous septa candidates within the relevant anatomical references. This evaluation is a technical requirement for a more reliable septum determination process. 4 Another technical problem is the continuity of the same fibrous septum in different image sections. This is the determination. In two-dimensional ultrasound examinations, the same images are seen in successive sections. Spatial matching of structures is not always easy; the position between sections and orientation differences can lead to the mixing of the same septum with different septa or to the confusion of its continuity. This can lead to it being impossible to determine. This situation is due to the length, orientation, and 5 of the septa. accurate determination of geometric parameters such as continuity and two-dimensional This makes it difficult to create reliable three-dimensional anatomical maps from the data. In current systems, parameters such as tissue thickness, regional stiffness, or similar parameters are obtained separately. However, the depth, thickness, length, or continuity of fibrous septa can be determined. orientation, echogenicity and mechanical properties are evaluated within the same assessment process and measurement 10 a standardized technical job in terms of reporting together, taking into account its quality It is necessary to determine the flow. Especially the measurements taken at different times. In order to make comparisons, the measurement region, probe conditions, imaging parameters and It is important to document data quality. In addition, fibrotic changes observed in the subcutaneous tissue are not due to just one disease or 15 Because it cannot be directly correlated with a clinical condition, the imaging result cannot be directly correlated with a specific condition. It is not technically appropriate to consider this as a diagnosis of the disease. Subcutaneous fibrotic Since changes can occur in different tissue conditions, the basis of the imaging system objective and repeatable measurement of the structural and mechanical properties of fibrous septa converting them into variables and using the results obtained at different times as needed. It needs to be comparable with the measurements. Therefore, in the current technique, high-frequency B-mode ultrasound data and elastography data are combined. combining them on the same anatomical region, controlling probe-tissue contact conditions during measurement. identifying subcutaneous anatomical layers, and determining fibrous septa candidates from anatomical structures and What distinguishes it from imaging artifacts is the continuity of the same septum across successive sections. capable of quantitatively analyzing the obtained structural and mechanical data along with reliability indicators. There is a need for an integrated system and method that can report in this way. Purpose and Technical Benefits of the Invention: The invention analyzes subcutaneous tissue by combining high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data. more reliable identification and quantitative analysis of the fibrous septa within it It aims to provide a system and method that enables its evaluation. One of the main aims of the invention is to analyze morphological data obtained from B-mode ultrasound images. mechanical properties obtained from elastography data and other features on the same septa candidate by enabling their combined evaluation, 10 based on only a single imaging data point The aim is to reduce the limitations of the evaluations. Another aim of the invention is to increase the contact force between the ultrasound probe and the tissue, and to adjust it when necessary. by monitoring the angle and position information of the probe, the measurement conditions are controlled and Image or measurement data that do not meet the specified quality criteria are excluded from analysis. The goal is to ensure that it is released. 15 The invention also includes the epidermis-dermis complex, subcutaneous adipose tissue, superficial fascia, and deep fascia. Identifying anatomical layers such as these and determining fibrous septa candidates based on these anatomical layers It aims to evaluate structures by considering their relationships with other structures. Thus, fascia, blood vessels... the possibility of structures and imaging artifacts being evaluated as fibrous septa The aim is to reduce it. 20 Another objective of the invention is to correlate the geometric properties and elastography of the selected septum candidates. Confidence score for each candidate by evaluating the mechanical measurements taken from the source together. 6 the creation and finalization of data that only meets the specified quality criteria. The aim is to ensure that it is taken into consideration. The invention also enables the tracking of the continuity of the same fibrous septum in successive image sections. and, when necessary, two-dimensional by combining different sections within a common coordinate system. or aims to create three-dimensional septal maps. 5 The invention allows for the determination of the depth, thickness, length, or continuity, orientation, of fibrous septa. combined evaluation of parameters such as echogenicity and mechanical measurement and a standard It is possible to present this within a viewing and reporting structure. One of the technical advantages of the invention is the combined evaluation of B-mode and elastography data. This allows morphological and mechanical information to be correlated on the same septal candidate. 10 Another technical benefit is monitoring probe-tissue contact conditions and identifying inappropriate measurements. By excluding it from the analysis, the repeatability and comparability of the measurements are ensured. It is to be supported. The invention also involves the separation of anatomical layers and the identification of septa candidates with fascia, vessels, and Thanks to its differentiation from artifacts, the anatomical specificity in septa identification is 15. It contributes to its increase. Another technical advantage of the invention is the quantitative data of the structural and mechanical properties of the septa. conversion and comparison of the obtained results with follow-up measurements of the same anatomical region. It is comparable. Figure Description: 20 Figure 1: The basic components of the system described in the invention and the data and transactions between these components. It is a system block diagram that shows the relationships. 7 Figure 2: Conceptual cross-section showing the basic structural components of the ultrasound probe that is the subject of the invention. It is the appearance. Figure 3: The user's view of the images and measurement results generated by the system described in the invention. This is a schematic view of how it will be presented in the interface. Description of Reference Parts: 5 101 – High-frequency ultrasound probe: For imaging subcutaneous tissue with high-frequency ultrasound. It refers to the probe that enables the image to be displayed. 102 – Contact force sensor: Detects the contact force between the ultrasound probe and the tissue being examined. It refers to the sensor that detects. 103 – Position / orientation sensor: Determines the position of the ultrasound probe during examination and 10 It refers to the sensor that enables the determination of orientation. 104 – Ultrasound-elastography unit: Acquisition of B-mode ultrasound and elastography data. and / or the unit that enables its processing. 105 – Data processing unit: A fibrous septum that processes the acquired image and measurement data. Process 15 that enables the selection of candidates and the joint evaluation of the relevant data. It represents the unit. 106 – User interface: Presenting the display and measurement results to the user. It refers to the interface that provides this. 107 – Data storage module: Image, elastography, measurement and evaluation data. It refers to the data storage module that enables the storage of data. 20 8 201 – Imaging transducer: A device that converts ultrasonic signals inside the ultrasound probe. enabling the transmission and reception of B-mode display. It refers to the transducer section. Section 202 – Elastography wave generation / detection: Performing elastographic measurement. probe section 5 which enables the generation and / or detection of elastographic waves for this purpose It expresses. 203 – Force sensor: The force resulting from the contact of the ultrasound probe with the tissue. It refers to the sensor element inside the probe that detects the signal. 204 – Acoustic coupling / stand-off layer: Between the ultrasound probe and the tissue being examined. ensuring acoustic connection and, if necessary, reducing the distance between the probe and the tissue to 10 It refers to the layer that helps in its organization. 205 – Probe body: Imaging transducer (201), elastography wave generation / detection section (202) refers to the probe body which carries the force sensor (203) and other related components. is doing. 206 – Angle / position sensor: The angle of the ultrasound probe relative to the examination surface and / or 15 It refers to the sensor that enables the determination of its location. 401 – Septal markers: Candidates for fibrous septa identified on B-mode imaging and / or These refer to markers indicating the locations of confirmed fibrous septa. 402 – Elastography color map: Elastographic measurements in the examined subcutaneous region It refers to a map showing the spatial distribution. 20 403 – Depth and thickness measurements: Depth and thickness of the identified fibrous septa. It refers to the measurement range showing the values. 9 404 – Orientation / continuity indicator: The orientation and succession of the identified fibrous septa. It refers to the evaluation area that shows the continuity in image segments. 405 – Confidence score: Visual, elastographic, and measurement assessment of the identified fibrous septum candidate. This refers to the confidence value created by jointly evaluating data related to the conditions. It is. 5 406 – Regional summary: Fibrous septa identified and measurements related to the anatomical region examined. It refers to the area where the results are presented collectively. 407 – Comparison area with previous examination: Current measurement results with the same anatomical features. the area that allows comparison with previous measurement results for the region It expresses. 10 Detailed Description of the Invention: The invention is based on the combined evaluation of high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data. Visualization and quantitative analysis of fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue. It relates to a system and method that enables its evaluation. The system that is the subject of the invention is a high-level system. frequency ultrasound probe (101), contact force sensor (102), optional position / orientation sensor 15 (103), ultrasound-elastography unit (104), data processing unit (105), user interface (106) and data It includes a storage module (107). These components are obtained from subcutaneous tissue. Acquisition of image and measurement data, evaluation of their quality, and processing. together for the purpose of relating them to each other and presenting the results to the user. He / She is working. 20 High frequency ultrasound probe (101) acoustic gel or equivalent to the anatomical region to be examined B-mode image data of the subcutaneous tissue are obtained by placing it via a coupling medium. It enables the obtainment of imaging transducer (201) inside probe (101), elastography wave generation / detection section (202), force sensor (203), acoustic coupling / stand-off The layer (204), probe body (205) and angle / position sensor (206) can be found. While the imaging transducer (201) enables the realization of B-mode imaging, elastography wave generation / detection section (202) performing elastographic measurement It enables the generation and / or detection of the wave directed towards it. Force sensor (203), 5 It helps in detecting the force resulting from the probe's contact with tissue; acoustic. The coupling / stand-off layer (204) supports the acoustic coupling between the probe and the tissue and The probe body (205) carries these components. The angle / position sensor (206) is the probe's It allows for the determination of its angle and / or position during the examination. B-mode image data obtained by Prob (101) and 10 obtained from the same anatomical region elastography data are sent to the ultrasound-elastography unit (104) and the data processing unit (105) The measurement results of the contact conditions between the probe and the tissue are being transmitted during this process. In order to control its effect on the contact, the contact force sensor (102) The strength is monitored continuously or at specific sampling intervals. Thus, the image and Data regarding measurement conditions during elastography data acquisition are also included in the imaging 15. It can be evaluated together with the data. Contact force information obtained by the contact force sensor (102), image and elastography It is used in the quality control process performed before the data is processed. Contact force outside the verified acceptable range, sudden movement during measurement. This can occur due to an unsuitable probe angle, an insufficient signal-to-noise ratio, or 20 If the elastography confidence indicator is low, the relevant square or measurement data should be analyzed. It can be excluded and a re-measurement can be requested. Thus, data fusion and subsequent processes... Only data that meets the specified quality criteria are used in the analysis stages. This is provided in the source document. These threshold values ​​are phantom and repeatability. It is stated that this can be determined through studies. 25 11 The data processing unit (105) processes the B-mode image data that has passed through quality control. Image preprocessing operations are performed. This includes gain and density. processes such as normalization, speckle noise reduction and geometric calibration It can be implemented and the elastography map is recorded in B-mode image coordinates. Thus, mechanical measurements are obtained using morphological image data from the same anatomical examination region. 5 The data is evaluated within a common coordinate structure. After establishing a common coordinate structure, the anatomical layers of the subcutaneous tissue They are separated. In this context, the epidermis-dermis complex, subcutaneous adipose tissue, and superficial tissue are analyzed. Fascia and deep fascia boundaries can be segmented automatically or via operator approval. The identified layers represent the possible anatomical features of fibrous septa candidates located within the subcutaneous tissue. They are used as reference surfaces that limit the positions of septa candidates. Thus, The determination is made not only based on visual characteristics but also on the anatomical layer in which the candidate structure is located. is also taken into consideration. Following the identification of anatomical layers, linear features located within the subcutaneous fat tissue or plate-like echogenic structures are marked as fibrous septa candidates. During this process 15 local contrast, orientation, curvature, apparent thickness of structures, and their appearance in adjacent image frames. Continuity and relationships with fascial surfaces are evaluated together. Thus, fibrous septa Candidates are selected by evaluating multiple visual characteristics together. is provided. To differentiate the identified septa candidates from structures other than fibrous septa, a superficial examination was performed. or continuous boundaries of deep fascia, vessel lumen and vessel wall, reverberation shadows and other significant imaging artifacts are treated as separate classes. Doppler data Vascular structures showing flow in the applications where they are present are in the exclusion phase. morphological and temporal analyses can be used in applications where Doppler data is unavailable. 12 Features can be used, and operator approval can be used when necessary. This allows access to anatomical layers. Septa candidates are identified by combining relevant reference information with the visual characteristics of the structures. Anatomical specificity is increased. After identifying candidates for fibrous septa and excluding unsuitable structures, each The geometric trace of a septa candidate on a B-mode image, elastography 5 at the same coordinates. This is correlated with measurements such as regional shear-wave velocity and elasticity value. or a measure of relative stiffness of the selected elastography mode; surrounding adipose tissue and adjacent anatomical features. can be compared with the layers. Thus, morphological evidence relating to the same septa candidate can be compared. Mechanical evidence is evaluated together with quality indicators regarding the candidate's credibility. This assessment also includes. 10 As a result of evaluating morphological evidence, mechanistic evidence, and quality indicators together. A confidence score (405) can be generated for each septa candidate. The determined quality conditions Measurements that meet the required quality standards are included in the final report, while those that do not meet the required quality standards are analyzed. It can be excluded or redirected to the re-measurement process. Thus, fibrous Final assessments regarding septa should be carried out taking into account the quality of measurement. 15 is provided. When using the optional position / orientation sensor (103) or image-based tracking, different Septa candidates identified in image sections were evaluated based on spatial proximity, orientation, and appearance. They can be matched based on characteristics such as similarity. As a result of this matching, the same fibrous 20 The continuity of the septum at different cross-sections is monitored, and three sections are obtained from two-dimensional image segments. A three-dimensional fibrous septal network can be created. The registration uncertainty is assumed to be predefined. If it exceeds the limit, the relevant section may not be included in the three-dimensional composite. 13 Based on the obtained image and measurement data, the system analyzes the subcutaneous tissue and fascia. depth, apparent thickness, length and / or thickness of fibrous septa. parameters such as continuity, orientation, density, echogenicity, mechanical measurement, and confidence score It can be calculated. Regional values ​​can optionally be obtained using a Fibrous Septal Load Index. The components and weights of the index can be combined under independent clinical 5 It is not used as a diagnostic threshold without verification. The calculated results are displayed as septa marks on the B-mode section via the user interface (106). (401), elastography color map (402), depth and thickness measurements (403), orientation / continuity It can be presented as an indicator (404), confidence score (405) and regional summary (406). In addition The results obtained are also presented in the form of two or three-dimensional anatomical maps and numerical summaries. This can be demonstrated. Thus, morphological and mechanical aspects obtained as a result of imaging are shown. Information and quantitative measurements related to it are together through the same user interface (106). can be evaluated. The raw image data obtained, processed outputs, elastography data, measurement results and processing. The records can be stored in a traceable manner in the data storage module (107). For tracking purposes 15 previous measurements and current measurements regarding the same anatomical region in the applications They can be compared; in this context, the same anatomical region, probe settings and quality conditions. Information relating to this can also be recorded. Previous measurement results can be recorded in the user interface (106) with the current results through the comparison area with the previous examination (407) They can be presented comparatively. 20 The initial intended use of the invention is for the treatment of subcutaneous connective tissue septa and regional tissue. visualization of hardness, quantitative evaluation, and change over time. The aim is to assist in monitoring. The system alone does not diagnose lipedema and does not provide invasive treatment. It does not automatically determine the point. Therefore, the obtained images and measurements... 14 results, technical data on the structural and mechanical properties of subcutaneous fibrous septa It is presented as such and, when clinical evaluation is required, by a qualified healthcare professional. is being carried out. This invention is based on morphological image data obtained using high-frequency ultrasound. It correlates elastography data across the same anatomical region, and the measurement conditions are of quality 5. It evaluates through control, identifies anatomical layers and candidates for fibrous septa, Excluding inappropriate structures and measurements, morphological and mechanical analysis of septa candidates. by combining the data, a confidence score is created and the results obtained are presented in two or three dimensions. It transforms anatomical mapping into a quantitative reporting structure.

Claims

REQUESTS 1- The invention relates to the destruction of fibrous septa within the subcutaneous tissue using high-frequency ultrasound. and visualization and quantitative analysis through the combined evaluation of elastography data. It is a system that allows it to be evaluated as such, and its characteristic is; - at least one high-frequency 5 that acquires B-mode image data of subcutaneous tissue ultrasound probe (101), - at least one that detects the contact force between the ultrasound probe (101) and the tissue being examined contact force sensor (102), - Obtaining and / or processing B-mode ultrasound data and elastography data. an ultrasound-elastography unit (104), 10 - processing the obtained image and measurement data, anatomical layers and fibrous septa a data processing unit that identifies candidates and evaluates the data together (105), - a user interface (106) that presents the image and measurement results to the user and raw A data system that stores processed image data, elastography, and measurement results. 15 containing a storage module (107); data processing unit (105), regarding the contact force evaluating measurement quality using data, including B-mode image data. Matching elastography data based on the same anatomical region and coordinate structure, Identifying subcutaneous anatomical layers and fibrous septa within the subcutaneous tissue The morphological and mechanical properties of the structures selected as candidates together 20 by evaluating and generating quantitative measurement results regarding the fibrous septa in question It is characterized by... 2- The invention relates to the development of fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue, according to Claim 1. through the combined evaluation of high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data It is a system that enables visualization and quantitative evaluation, 25 16 Its feature is the high frequency ultrasound probe (101), imaging transducer (201), elastography wave generation and / or detection section (202), force sensor (203), acoustics coupling and / or stand-off layer (204), probe body (205) and angle and / or position sensor (206) is characterized by its inclusion. 3- The invention relates to fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue, according to Claim 1 or 2. through the combined evaluation of high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data It is a system that enables the visualization and quantitative evaluation of data. its feature is the data processing unit (105), epidermis-dermis complex, subcutaneous adipose tissue, Automatic or operator-approved segmentation of superficial and deep fascia boundaries. and the anatomical layers in question are used as a reference in identifying candidates for fibrous septa. 10 It is characterized by its use. 4- The invention relates to fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue, according to Claim 1, 2 or 3. through the combined evaluation of high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data It is a system that enables the visualization and quantitative evaluation of data. feature; data processing unit (105), linear 15 located in subcutaneous fat tissue. and / or platy echogenic structures; local contrast, orientation, curvature, apparent thickness, adjacent Candidate for fibrous septa based on continuity in image sections and their relationship with fascial surfaces. to identify and detect superficial or deep fascia, vascular structures, and imaging artifacts. It is characterized by its ability to differentiate septa from other candidates. 5- The invention relates to fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue, according to Claims 1, 2, 3 or 4. through the combined evaluation of high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data It is a system that enables the visualization and quantitative evaluation of data. The feature is that the data processing unit (105) B-mode of each identified fibrous septa candidate. elastography whose geometric position on the image corresponds to the same coordinates matching the measurements with morphological features of the fibrous septa candidate and shear-wave 25 17 By evaluating speed, elasticity value and / or relative stiffness measurement together, a reliable indicator can be established. It is characterized by forming a score (405). 6- The invention relates to fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue, according to Claims 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5. through the combined evaluation of high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data It is a system that enables visualization and quantitative evaluation, 5 The feature is the position / orientation sensor (103) and / or image-based tracking mechanism, Candidate fibrous septa identified in different image sections were evaluated based on spatial proximity, orientation, and Matching based on visual similarity and successive sections of the same fibrous septum By enabling the determination of continuity, three-dimensional fibrous tissue can be obtained from two-dimensional image sections. It is characterized by enabling the creation of a septal map. 10 7- The invention relates to fibrous tissue located within the subcutaneous tissue, according to Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6. Combined high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data of septa visualization and quantitative evaluation through assessment It is a system that provides the following features; user interface (106), fibrous septa signs (401), elastography color and / or hardness map (402), depth and thickness measurements 15 (403), trend and continuity indicator (404), confidence score (405), regional summary (406) and is characterized by presenting the user with a comparison area with the previous examination (407). is being done. 8- Fibrous septa located within the subcutaneous tissue according to claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7. By evaluating high-frequency ultrasound and elastography data together, 20 It is a system that enables the visualization and quantitative evaluation of data. feature; - B-mode image data and ultrasound with high frequency ultrasound probe (101) Obtaining elastography data from the same anatomical region with the elastography unit (104), 18 - probe-tissue contact conditions via contact force sensor (102) evaluation, - Image and measurement data that do not meet quality requirements are excluded from the analysis. - A common coordinate structure for B-mode image data and elastography data. matching within, 5 - segmentation of subcutaneous anatomical layers, - Identification of fibrous septa candidates within the subcutaneous tissue and their interaction with fascia, blood vessels, and Separation from imaging artifacts, - Morphological characteristics and elastographic mechanics of identified fibrous septa candidates combined evaluation of the measurements, 10 - Conversion of the confidence score (405) for fibrous septa candidates and the resulting fibrous Presenting measurement results related to septa via user interface (106) It is characterized by including its steps.

Images