Ultrasonic Diagnostic Apparatus Space-Time Propagation Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for displaying heart wall motion information fail to directly grasp and quantify the state of space-time propagation of mechanical excitement, which is crucial for diagnosing ischemia diseases.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and method that generates and displays first excitement propagation information by extracting local areas of tissue motion information using time-series volume data, allowing for the direct visualization of space-time propagation of mechanical excitement in cardiac tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional display methods (CFM, Bull's eye display) are used to show heart wall motion information, then the contraction peak timing and regional deviations can be grasped, but the state of space-time propagation of mechanical excitement cannot be directly grasped or quantified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a space-time propagation image that adds temporal propagation dimension to the spatial distribution of contraction peak timing. This new dimensional representation allows simultaneous visualization of where contraction peaks occur and how they propagate through time and space, directly addressing the limitation of conventional methods that only show spatial distribution at fixed time points
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the space-time propagation image as an intermediary representation that bridges the gap between raw tissue motion information and clinically useful diagnostic insights. This intermediary visualization method transforms complex multi-dimensional motion data into an interpretable format that directly reveals propagation states, enabling both quantitative measurement and direct visual grasping of mechanical excitement propagation
2Ease of operation
If three-dimensional distribution of contraction peak timing is displayed, then regional deviations can be evaluated, but the dynamic process of mechanical excitement propagation through space and time cannot be directly observed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spatial distribution information (contraction peak timing across different regions) with temporal propagation information into a single integrated space-time propagation image. This combination allows clinicians to simultaneously evaluate regional deviations and observe the dynamic propagation process without switching between multiple separate displays or interpretations
Solution Approach 2:
By adding the temporal propagation dimension to the existing spatial distribution visualization, the patent creates a multi-dimensional space-time representation that preserves all original information while adding new diagnostic capabilities for observing propagation dynamics
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables direct and quantitative analysis of space-time propagation of mechanical excitement, supporting more effective diagnosis of ischemia diseases by providing three-dimensional mapping of heart wall motion information.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic probe 11 for inspecting a subject; a transmission unit 13 for transmitting ultrasonic waves to the cardiac tissue; a reception unit 15 for receiving the reflected waves from the cardiac tissue
Implementation Method 2
a movement vector processing unit 19 for calculating a movement vector indicating a displacement of the tissue on the basis of a phase difference between the transmitted ultrasonic waves and the reflected waves
Implementation Method 3
transmitting ultrasonic waves to the cardiac tissue; receiving the reflected waves from the cardiac tissue
Data Source
AI summary
Using three-dimensional mapping images at different time phases obtained by mapping motion information, a peak value of motion information in a local region is retrieved in each of the time phases. On the basis of the result, a locus line or the like indicative of fluctuations with time in the local peak region is generated and displayed so as to be, for example, superimposed on a mapping image. By observing the locus line on the mapping image displayed, the observer can directly grasp the state of the space-time propagation of mechanical excitement of the heart.