Patent Description:
In the related art, an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus that obtains a tomographic image inside a subject by scanning a body surface of the subject with an ultrasound probe has been known. A technology disclosed in <CIT> that enables a user to securely examine the subject in examining the subject using the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus has been developed. <CIT> discloses a technology for acquiring information related to a posture of the ultrasound probe via a sensor and for determining whether an imaged part of the subject is present on the left or the right of the subject based on the acquired information related to the posture of the ultrasound probe.

In a case where a breast of the subject is examined using the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, the user may, for example, overlook a scanning range and not be able to sufficiently scan the entire breast because of a size or the like of the breast of the subject. In the technology of <CIT>, while whether the breast scanned with the ultrasound probe is a left or right breast of the subject can be determined, it is difficult to clearly check whether or not the user has sufficiently scanned the breast.

The present invention has been conceived to eliminate the problem of the related art, and an object thereof is to provide an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and a control method of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus that enable a user to sufficiently scan a breast of a subject.

In order to achieve the object, an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention comprises a monitor, an ultrasound probe, a sensor that detects an inclined angle or a height position of the ultrasound probe, an image generation unit that generates an ultrasound image based on a reception signal obtained by scanning a breast of a subject using the ultrasound probe, a scanning detection unit that detects a start point and an end point of scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe along one direction based on the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor, a graph generation unit that generates a graph representing a change in the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor between the start point and the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe detected by the scanning detection unit and that displays the graph on the monitor, and a display image selection unit that, in a case where at least one of a designation point on the graph corresponding to the start point or a designation point on the graph corresponding to the end point is designated by a user, displays an ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit based on a reception signal obtained at an imaging position corresponding to the designation point designated by the user, on the monitor.

In a case where an arbitrary designation point on the graph generated by the graph generation unit is designated by the user, the display image selection unit may display an ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit based on a reception signal obtained at an imaging position corresponding to the arbitrary designation point designated by the user, on the monitor.

In addition, in a case where an arbitrary designation point on the graph generated by the graph generation unit is designated by the user, the display image selection unit may display ultrasound images having a plurality of frames generated by the image generation unit based on reception signals obtained at a plurality of imaging positions corresponding to a determined range on the graph including the arbitrary designation point designated by the user, on the monitor as a video.

The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus may further comprise a scanning completion determination unit that determines whether scanning with the ultrasound probe complying with a determined scanning pattern is completed or not completed based on a shape of the graph generated by the graph generation unit, and a notification unit that notifies the user in a case where the scanning completion determination unit determines that scanning with the ultrasound probe is not completed.

In this case, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus may further comprise a graph memory that stores a graph template representing a typical change in the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe in the determined scanning pattern, in which the scanning completion determination unit determines whether scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed or not completed by comparing the graph generated by the graph generation unit with the graph template stored in the graph memory.

The graph memory may store a plurality of the graph templates related to the height position of the ultrasound probe corresponding to a plurality of the determined scanning patterns, and the scanning completion determination unit may determine whether scanning complying with a scanning pattern designated by the user is completed or not completed using a graph template corresponding to the scanning pattern designated by the user among the plurality of determined scanning patterns.

In addition, the graph memory may store a plurality of the graph templates related to the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe corresponding to a plurality of the determined scanning patterns, and the scanning completion determination unit may determine whether scanning complying with a scanning pattern designated by the user is completed or not completed using a graph template corresponding to the scanning pattern designated by the user among the plurality of determined scanning patterns.

In addition, the graph generation unit may display at least one point corresponding to the imaging position at which the reception signal for generating the ultrasound image via the image generation unit is obtained in the generated graph, on the monitor in a highlighted manner.

In addition, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus may further comprise a scanning combining unit that, in a case where scanning with the ultrasound probe is interrupted based on an instruction of the user and where scanning with the ultrasound probe is resumed based on an instruction of the user, combines the interrupted scanning and the resumed scanning into one scanning.

A control method of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention comprises detecting an inclined angle or a height position of an ultrasound probe via a sensor, generating an ultrasound image based on a reception signal obtained by scanning a breast of a subject using the ultrasound probe, detecting a start point and an end point of scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe along one direction based on the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor, generating a graph representing a change in the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected between the start point and the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe and displaying the graph on a monitor, and displaying, in a case where at least one of a designation point on the graph corresponding to the start point or a designation point on the graph corresponding to the end point is designated by a user, an ultrasound image generated based on a reception signal obtained at an imaging position corresponding to the designation point designated by the user, on the monitor.

In the control method of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, in a case where an arbitrary designation point on the generated graph is designated by the user, an ultrasound image generated based on a reception signal obtained at an imaging position corresponding to the arbitrary designation point designated by the user may be displayed on the monitor.

In this case, in a case where an arbitrary designation point on the generated graph is designated by the user, ultrasound images having a plurality of frames generated based on reception signals obtained at a plurality of imaging positions corresponding to a determined range on the graph including the arbitrary designation point designated by the user may be displayed on the monitor as a video.

In the control method of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, whether scanning with the ultrasound probe complying with a determined scanning pattern is completed or not completed may be determined based on a shape of the generated graph.

In this case, a graph template representing a typical change in the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe in the determined scanning pattern may be stored, and whether scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed or not completed may be determined by comparing the generated graph with the graph template.

In addition, in the control method of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, a plurality of the graph templates related to the height position of the ultrasound probe corresponding to a plurality of the determined scanning patterns may be stored, and whether scanning complying with a scanning pattern designated by the user is completed or not completed may be determined using a graph template corresponding to the scanning pattern designated by the user among the plurality of determined scanning patterns.

In addition, a plurality of the graph templates related to the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe corresponding to a plurality of the determined scanning patterns may be stored, and whether scanning complying with a scanning pattern designated by the user is completed or not completed may be determined using a graph template corresponding to the scanning pattern designated by the user among the plurality of determined scanning patterns.

In addition, at least one point corresponding to the imaging position at which the reception signal for generating the ultrasound image is obtained in the generated graph may be displayed on the monitor in a highlighted manner.

In addition, in the control method of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, in a case where scanning with the ultrasound probe is interrupted based on an instruction of the user and where scanning with the ultrasound probe is resumed based on an instruction of the user, the interrupted scanning and the resumed scanning may be combined into one scanning.

According to the present invention, an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus comprises a sensor that detects an inclined angle or a height position of an ultrasound probe, an image generation unit that generates an ultrasound image based on a reception signal obtained by scanning a breast of a subject using the ultrasound probe, a scanning detection unit that detects a start point and an end point of scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe along one direction based on the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor, a graph generation unit that generates a graph representing a change in the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor between the start point and the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe detected by the scanning detection unit and that displays the graph on a monitor, and a display image selection unit that, in a case where at least one of a designation point on the graph corresponding to the start point or a designation point on the graph corresponding to the end point is designated by a user, displays an ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit based on a reception signal obtained at an imaging position corresponding to the designation point designated by the user, on the monitor. Thus, the user can clearly check whether or not the breast of the subject is sufficiently scanned.

The description of configuration requirements described below is provided based on the representative embodiment of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment.

In the present specification, a numerical range represented using "to" means a range including the numerical values before and after "to" as a lower limit value and an upper limit value.

In the present specification, the terms "identical" and "same" include an error range generally allowed in the technical field.

<FIG> illustrates a configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> comprises an ultrasound probe <NUM> and an apparatus body <NUM> connected to the ultrasound probe <NUM>. In addition, a sensor <NUM> is attached to the ultrasound probe <NUM>.

The ultrasound probe <NUM> comprises a transducer array <NUM>. A transmission and reception circuit <NUM> is connected to the transducer array <NUM>.

The apparatus body <NUM> comprises an image generation unit <NUM>. The image generation unit <NUM> is connected to the transmission and reception circuit <NUM> of the ultrasound probe <NUM>. In addition, a display control unit <NUM> and a monitor <NUM> are sequentially connected to the image generation unit <NUM>. In addition, the apparatus body <NUM> comprises a scanning detection unit <NUM> connected to the sensor <NUM>. In addition, a graph generation unit <NUM> is connected to the scanning detection unit <NUM>, and the display control unit <NUM> is connected to the graph generation unit <NUM>. In addition, an image memory <NUM> is connected to the image generation unit <NUM>. A display image selection unit <NUM> is connected to the image memory <NUM>, and the display control unit <NUM> is connected to the display image selection unit <NUM>.

In addition, an apparatus control unit <NUM> is connected to the sensor <NUM>, the transmission and reception circuit <NUM>, the image generation unit <NUM>, the display control unit <NUM>, the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the graph generation unit <NUM>, the image memory <NUM>, and the display image selection unit <NUM>. Furthermore, an input device <NUM> is connected to the apparatus control unit <NUM>.

In addition, a processor <NUM> for the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> is composed of the image generation unit <NUM>, the display control unit <NUM>, the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the graph generation unit <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM>, and the apparatus control unit <NUM>.

The transducer array <NUM> of the ultrasound probe <NUM> includes a plurality of one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally arranged ultrasound oscillators. Each of these ultrasound oscillators transmits an ultrasound wave in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the transmission and reception circuit <NUM> and receives an ultrasound echo from a subject to output a signal based on the ultrasound echo. Each ultrasound oscillator is configured by forming electrodes at both ends of a piezoelectric body consisting of, for example, a piezoelectric ceramic represented by lead zirconate titanate (PZT), a polymer piezoelectric element represented by polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), and a piezoelectric single crystal represented by lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT).

The transmission and reception circuit <NUM> transmits the ultrasound waves from the transducer array <NUM> and generates a sound ray signal based on reception signals acquired by the transducer array <NUM> under control of the apparatus control unit <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the transmission and reception circuit <NUM> includes a pulser <NUM> connected to the transducer array <NUM> and an amplification unit <NUM>, an analog digital (AD) conversion unit <NUM>, and a beam former <NUM> sequentially connected in series from the transducer array <NUM>.

The pulser <NUM> includes, for example, a plurality of pulse generators, adjusts a delay amount of each drive signal based on a transmission delay pattern selected in accordance with a control signal from the apparatus control unit <NUM> so that the ultrasound waves transmitted from the plurality of ultrasound oscillators of the transducer array <NUM> form an ultrasound beam, and supplies each drive signal to the plurality of ultrasound oscillators. In a case where a voltage having a pulse shape or a continuous wave shape is applied to the electrodes of the ultrasound oscillators of the transducer array <NUM>, the piezoelectric bodies expand and contract to generate ultrasound waves having a pulse shape or a continuous wave shape from each ultrasound oscillator, and the ultrasound beam is formed from a combined wave of the ultrasound waves.

The transmitted ultrasound beam is reflected by, for example, a target such as a part of the subject and propagates toward the transducer array <NUM> of the ultrasound probe <NUM>. The ultrasound echo propagating toward the transducer array <NUM> is received by each ultrasound oscillator constituting the transducer array <NUM>. In this case, each ultrasound oscillator constituting the transducer array <NUM> receives the propagating ultrasound echo, expands and contracts to generate the reception signal that is an electric signal, and outputs the reception signal to the amplification unit <NUM>.

The amplification unit <NUM> amplifies the signals input from each ultrasound oscillator constituting the transducer array <NUM> and transmits the amplified signals to the AD conversion unit <NUM>. The AD conversion unit <NUM> converts the signals transmitted from the amplification unit <NUM> into digital reception data. The beam former <NUM> performs so-called reception focus processing of applying a delay to each reception data received from the AD conversion unit <NUM> and of adding each reception data together. By performing the reception focus processing, the sound ray signal in which each reception data converted by the AD conversion unit <NUM> is phased and added together and in which a focus of the ultrasound echo is narrowed is acquired.

The image generation unit <NUM> has a configuration in which a signal processing unit <NUM>, a digital scan converter (DSC) <NUM>, and an image processing unit <NUM> are sequentially connected in series as illustrated in <FIG>.

The signal processing unit <NUM> corrects attenuation by distance of the sound ray signal received from the transmission and reception circuit <NUM> in accordance with depths of reflection positions of the ultrasound waves using a sound speed value set by the apparatus control unit <NUM> and then performs envelope detection processing on the sound ray signal to generate a B-mode image signal that is tomographic image information related to tissues inside the subject.

The DSC <NUM> converts the B-mode image signal generated by the signal processing unit <NUM> into an image signal complying with a scanning method of a typical television signal (raster conversion).

The image processing unit <NUM> performs various types of necessary image processing such as gradation processing on the B-mode image signal input from the DSC <NUM> and then transmits the B-mode image signal to the display control unit <NUM> and to the image memory <NUM>. Hereinafter, the B-mode image signal on which the image processing is performed by the image processing unit <NUM> will be referred to as an ultrasound image.

The apparatus control unit <NUM> controls each part of the ultrasound probe <NUM>, each part of the apparatus body <NUM>, and the sensor <NUM> in accordance with a program and the like recorded in advance.

The display control unit <NUM> performs predetermined processing on the ultrasound image or the like generated by the image generation unit <NUM> and displays the ultrasound image or the like on the monitor <NUM> under the control of the apparatus control unit <NUM>.

The monitor <NUM> performs various types of display under control of the display control unit <NUM>. Examples of the monitor <NUM> include display devices such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and an organic electroluminescence display (organic EL display).

The input device <NUM> is used for a user to perform an input operation. For example, the input device <NUM> is composed of a device used for the user to perform the input operation, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a touchpad, and a touch panel.

The sensor <NUM> is used for detecting a height position or an inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM>. For example, an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor may be used as the sensor <NUM>.

Here, the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is a height position of a tip part of the ultrasound probe <NUM> in contact with a body surface of the subject. For example, the sensor <NUM> can detect a value of a relative height position with reference to an arbitrary height in a case where the user moves the ultrasound probe <NUM>. For example, the arbitrary height can be a height of a start point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM>.

In addition, the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is an inclined angle in a case where the ultrasound probe <NUM> is inclined in a plane orthogonal to a scan surface using the tip part of the ultrasound probe <NUM> as a fulcrum. For example, the inclined angle in a state where the tip part of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is vertically downward can be set to zero. The sensor <NUM> can detect a positive value of the inclined angle in a case where inclination is performed to one side, and detect a negative value of the inclined angle in a case where inclination is performed to the other side.

While the ultrasound probe <NUM> is moved on the breast of the subject by the user along one direction in a front view of the subject, the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects a start point and an end point of scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction based on the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected by the sensor <NUM>.

Here, scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction means performing scanning in accordance with a determined scanning pattern on the breast of the subject while the user moves the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction in a front view of the subject in a state where the tip part of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is in contact with the body surface of the breast of the subject.

For example, the determined scanning pattern refers to a method of scanning the breast of the subject while moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction in a front view of the subject, such as a scanning method of scanning from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject along one direction in a front view of the subject or a scanning method of scanning from a nipple to a peripheral part of the breast of the subject along one direction in a front view of the subject. In <FIG>, an example in which the ultrasound probe <NUM> moves on a body surface BS of the subject to scan a range from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject is illustrated as the determined scanning pattern.

Scanning from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject means scanning from one end part of the peripheral part of the breast of the subject to the other end part of the peripheral part of the breast while moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction. Here, moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction means that a movement direction of the ultrasound probe is constant. In addition, for example, the scanning method of scanning from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject includes a case of setting end parts of one breast in an up-down direction as one end part and the other end part or a case of setting end parts of one breast in a left-right direction as one end part and the other end part in a front view of the subject. In addition, for example, the scanning method of scanning from the nipple to the peripheral part includes a case of radially scanning from the nipple toward the peripheral part or a case of scanning by drawing a circle around the nipple in one direction using the nipple as a center.

Normally, the ultrasound probe <NUM> is generally moved at an almost constant speed during scanning of the breast of the subject. However, at the start of scanning, it is general to start moving from a standstill state or to start moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> that has been moving in a constant direction to a different direction. In addition, at the end of scanning, it is general to bring the ultrasound probe <NUM> to a standstill from a moving state or to start moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> that has been moving in a constant direction to a different direction. Accordingly, a value that significantly deviates from an originally detected value is generally obtained immediately before the start of scanning or immediately after the end of scanning.

Thus, for example, the scanning detection unit <NUM> can detect the start point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> based on a change in the detection value obtained by the sensor <NUM> after an elapse of a constant time from immediately before the start of scanning, such that the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects an imaging position immediately after a rapid change in the output value of the sensor <NUM> as the start point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM>. In addition, for example, the scanning detection unit <NUM> can detect the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> based on a change in the detection value obtained by the sensor <NUM> within a constant time from before the end of scanning to immediately after the end of scanning, such that the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects the imaging position immediately before a rapid change in the output value of the sensor <NUM> as the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM>.

The graph generation unit <NUM> generates a graph representing a change in time of the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected by the sensor <NUM> between the start point and the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> and displays the generated graph on the monitor <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a graph G1 representing a change in time of the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected by the sensor <NUM> in a case of scanning from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM>. As time passes from a time point of zero, that is, a left end part of the graph G1 corresponding to the start point of scanning, the height position is gradually increased. The graph G1 has the maximum at a point corresponding to the nipple. Then, the height position is gradually decreased to a right end part of the graph G1 corresponding to the end point of scanning.

In addition, <FIG> illustrates an example of a graph G2 representing a change in time of the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected by the sensor <NUM> in a case of scanning from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM>. In the graph G2, the inclined angle in a state where the tip part of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is vertically downward is set to zero. As time passes from a time point of zero, that is, a left end part of the graph G2 corresponding to the time point of the start point of scanning, the value of the inclined angle is increased in a negative direction and then is increased in a positive direction in the middle. The inclined angle reaches zero at a point corresponding to the nipple, and the value of the inclined angle is further increased in a positive direction.

In addition, for example, the graph generation unit <NUM> may display the graph G1 on the monitor <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. In this case, the graph generation unit <NUM> may display, on the monitor <NUM>, a scanning number-of-times display panel P1 showing the number of times that scanning is performed to generate the graph G1. The scanning number-of-times display panel P1 has a scanning number-of-times selection button B1. In a case where the scanning number-of-times selection button B1 is designated through the input device <NUM>, a list of numbers of times that scanning has already been performed is displayed, and the user can select a desired number of times from the list. For example, in a case where the user selects "first time" from the list, the graph G1 generated in scanning performed for the first time is displayed on the monitor <NUM>.

The image memory <NUM> is a memory that stores at least an ultrasound image generated from the reception signals obtained in the ultrasound probe <NUM> at the start point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> or an ultrasound image generated from the reception signals obtained in the ultrasound probe <NUM> at the end point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> among ultrasound images sequentially generated by the image generation unit <NUM>.

For example, recording media such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a flexible disk (FD), a magneto-optical disc (MO disc), a magnetic tape (MT), a random access memory (RAM), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a secure digital card (SD card), and a universal serial bus memory (USB memory) can be used as the image memory <NUM>.

In a case where at least one of a designation point on the graph G1 corresponding to the start point of scanning or a designation point on the graph G1 corresponding to the end point of scanning is designated by the user, the display image selection unit <NUM> displays the ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit <NUM> based on the reception signals obtained at the imaging position corresponding to the designation point designated by the user, on the monitor <NUM>.

Hereinafter, for simplification of description, the ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit <NUM> based on the reception signals obtained at the start point of scanning will be referred to as the ultrasound image corresponding to the start point of scanning. The ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit <NUM> based on the reception signals obtained at the end point of scanning will be referred to as the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning.

Here, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, in a case where the graph G1 is displayed on the monitor <NUM> by the graph generation unit <NUM> and where the left end part of the graph G1 corresponding to the start point of scanning is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM> may display an ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning on the monitor <NUM> from the image memory <NUM> based on input information provided by the user. In addition, while illustration is not provided, in a case where the right end part of the graph G1 corresponding to the end point of scanning is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM> may display the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning on the monitor <NUM> from the image memory <NUM> based on the input information provided by the user.

While the processor <NUM> including the image generation unit <NUM>, the display control unit <NUM>, the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the graph generation unit <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM>, and the apparatus control unit <NUM> is composed of a central processing unit (CPU) and of a control program causing the CPU to perform various types of processing, the processor <NUM> may be configured using a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or other integrated circuits (IC) or may be composed of a combination thereof.

In addition, all or a part of the image generation unit <NUM>, the display control unit <NUM>, the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the graph generation unit <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM>, and the apparatus control unit <NUM> of the processor <NUM> can be configured to be integrated into one CPU or the like.

Next, operation of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described using the flowchart illustrated in <FIG>. Here, for example, the operation of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> in a case where the user scans the breast of the subject using the ultrasound probe <NUM> and where the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is detected by the sensor <NUM> will be described.

First, the user positions the ultrasound probe <NUM> near one end part of the breast of the subject and starts moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> toward the other end part of the breast of the subject in one direction in a front view of the subject. In this state, the ultrasound image U1 is captured in step S1. In capturing the ultrasound image U1, the transmission and reception circuit <NUM> generates the sound ray signal by performing the so-called reception focus processing under control of the apparatus control unit <NUM>. The sound ray signal generated by the transmission and reception circuit <NUM> is transmitted to the image generation unit <NUM>. The image generation unit <NUM> generates the ultrasound image U1 using the sound ray signal transmitted from the transmission and reception circuit <NUM>. The ultrasound image U1 generated in such a manner is transmitted to the display control unit <NUM> to be displayed on the monitor <NUM>.

Next, in step S2, the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is detected by the sensor <NUM>.

Next, in step S3, the scanning detection unit <NUM> determines whether or not scanning has started by performing processing of detecting the start point of scanning of the breast of the subject along one direction based on a change in time of the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected in step S2.

In a case where scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM> starts, normally, it is general to start moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> from a standstill state or to start moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> that has been moving in a constant direction to a different direction. Thus, for example, the scanning detection unit <NUM> can detect the start point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> based on a change in the detection value obtained by the sensor <NUM> after an elapse of a constant time from immediately before the start of scanning, such that the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects the imaging position immediately after a rapid change in the output value of the sensor <NUM> as the start point of scanning.

Here, the height position is detected only once in step S2. Thus, the scanning detection unit <NUM> cannot detect the start point of scanning in step S3 and determines that scanning has not started. In this case, a return is made to step S1 to newly generate the ultrasound image. Thus, processing of step S1 to step S3 is repeated until the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects the start of scanning of the breast of the subject after an elapse of a constant time required for detecting the start point of scanning via the scanning detection unit <NUM> in step S3.

In a case where the start of scanning is detected in step S3, a transition is made to step S4.

In step S4, the ultrasound image corresponding to the imaging position detected as the start point of scanning in step S3 is stored in the image memory <NUM>.

Next, in step S5, an ultrasound image is generated in the same manner as step S1.

In step S6, the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is detected in the same manner as step S2.

In step S7, the scanning detection unit <NUM> determines whether or not scanning has ended by performing processing of detecting the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject along one direction based on a change in time of the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected in step S6.

In a case where scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM> ends, normally, it is general to bring the ultrasound probe <NUM> to a standstill from a moving state or to start moving the ultrasound probe <NUM> that has been moving in a constant direction to a different direction. Thus, the scanning detection unit <NUM> can detect the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> based on a change in the detection value obtained by the sensor <NUM> within a constant time from before the end of scanning to immediately after the end of scanning, such that the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects the imaging position immediately before a rapid change in the output value of the sensor <NUM> as the end point.

Here, the height position is detected only once in step S6. Thus, the scanning detection unit <NUM> cannot detect the end point of scanning in step S7 and determines that scanning has not ended. In this case, a return is made to step S5 to newly generate the ultrasound image. Thus, processing of step S5 to step S7 is repeated until the scanning detection unit <NUM> detects the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject after an elapse of a constant time required for detecting the end point of scanning via the scanning detection unit <NUM> in step S3.

In a case where the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject is detected in step S7, a transition is made to step S8.

In step S8, the ultrasound image corresponding to the imaging position detected as the end point of scanning in step S7 is stored in the image memory <NUM>.

Next, in step S9, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the graph generation unit <NUM> generates the graph G1 representing a change in time of the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected in step S6 from the start point of scanning detected in step S3 to the end point of scanning detected in step S7.

Last, in step S10, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the graph generation unit <NUM> displays the graph G1 generated in step S9 on the monitor <NUM>. In addition, in this state, in a case where the left end part of the graph G1 corresponding to the start point of scanning is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM> displays the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning on the monitor <NUM>. In addition, while illustration is not provided, in a case where the right end part of the graph G1 corresponding to the end point of scanning is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM> displays the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning on the monitor <NUM>.

Since the graph G1 is displayed on the monitor <NUM> in such a manner, the user can check whether or not the breast of the subject as a target to be examined is sufficiently scanned with reference to a shape of the graph. In addition, the user can more clearly check whether or not the breast of the subject as a target to be examined is sufficiently scanned with reference to the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning and to the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning.

This ends the operation of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> of Embodiment <NUM> according to the flowchart of <FIG>.

As described above, according to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, the start point and the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> are detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> based on the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected by the sensor <NUM>. In addition, the graph G1 representing a change in time of the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> detected from the start point to the end point of scanning is displayed on the monitor <NUM>. Furthermore, the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning and the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning are displayed on the monitor <NUM>. Thus, the user can be prevented from overlooking the scanning range by clearly checking whether or not the breast of the subject as a target to be examined is sufficiently scanned and can sufficiently scan the breast of the subject.

While the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is detected in step S2 after the ultrasound image is generated in step S1 in the flowchart illustrated in <FIG>, processing of step S1 may be performed after processing of step S2 is performed, or processing of step S1 and processing of step S2 may be performed at the same time. In addition, while the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> is detected in step S6 after the ultrasound image is generated in step S5, processing of step S5 may be performed after processing of step S6 is performed, or processing of step S5 and processing of step S6 may be performed at the same time.

In addition, the ultrasound probe <NUM> and the apparatus body <NUM> can be connected via so-called wired communication or can be connected via so-called wireless communication.

In addition, while the sensor <NUM> is attached outside the ultrasound probe <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> may be incorporated in the ultrasound probe <NUM>.

In addition, the sensor <NUM> may not be attached to the ultrasound probe <NUM> as long as the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> can be detected. For example, the sensor <NUM> can be attached to a hand of the subject holding the ultrasound probe <NUM>. Even in this case, a relative value of the height position or a relative value of the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> can be detected. Thus, in the same manner as a case where the sensor <NUM> is directly attached to the ultrasound probe <NUM>, the start point and the end point of scanning may be detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM>, and the graph G1 representing a change in time of the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> may be generated by the graph generation unit <NUM>.

In addition, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the graph generation unit <NUM> can display a point corresponding to the start point of scanning and a point corresponding to the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject in the graph G1 on the monitor <NUM> in a highlighted manner. Accordingly, the user can easily perceive the point on the graph G1 corresponding to the start point of scanning of the breast of the subject and the point on the graph G1 corresponding to the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject and easily designate the points.

In addition, while the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning and the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> have been described as being stored in the image memory <NUM>, an ultrasound image corresponding to an arbitrary imaging position between the start point and the end point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> may be further stored in the image memory <NUM>.

For example, in addition to the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning and the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM>, ultrasound images having a determined number of frames generated from the start point to the end point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> may be stored in the image memory <NUM>.

In this case, for example, in a case where points corresponding to the ultrasound images having the determined number of frames on the graph G1 displayed on the monitor <NUM> are designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM> can display the corresponding ultrasound images on the monitor <NUM>. Accordingly, the user can more clearly check whether or not the breast of the subject is sufficiently scanned.

In addition, in this case, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the graph generation unit <NUM> can display the points corresponding to the ultrasound images having the determined number of frames stored in the image memory <NUM> on the graph G1 in a highlighted manner. Accordingly, the user can easily perceive which point is to be designated through the input device <NUM> in order to check the ultrasound image.

In addition, for example, all ultrasound images generated from the start point to the end point of scanning detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM> may be stored in the image memory <NUM>. In this case, in a case where an arbitrary point on the graph G1 displayed on the monitor <NUM> is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM> can display the ultrasound image obtained at the imaging position corresponding to the designation point on the monitor <NUM>.

In addition, in this case, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the graph generation unit <NUM> can display the points corresponding to the ultrasound images of all frames stored in the image memory <NUM> on the graph G1 in a highlighted manner.

In addition, while displaying the ultrasound image corresponding to the designation point designated by the user on the monitor <NUM> for the first time in a case where the user designates the designation point on the graph G1 in a state where the graph G1 is displayed on the monitor <NUM> has been described, any ultrasound image stored in the image memory <NUM> may be displayed on the monitor <NUM> together with the graph G1 even in a state where the designation point is not designated by the user. For example, after the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject is detected by the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning and the graph G1 may be automatically displayed on the monitor <NUM>.

In this case, for example, in a case where ultrasound images having a plurality of frames generated between the start point and the end point of scanning are stored in the image memory <NUM>, the user performing so-called scrolling and selection of the designation point on the graph G1 from the designation point corresponding to the start point of scanning to the designation point corresponding to the end point of scanning displays the ultrasound image having the plurality of frames on the monitor <NUM> such that the ultrasound images sequentially change from the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point to the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point.

In addition, in a case where the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames generated between the start point and the end point of scanning are stored in the image memory <NUM> in addition to the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning and to the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning, the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames may be continuously reproduced on the monitor <NUM> as a video instead of still images.

For example, in a case where the right end part of the graph G1 displayed on the monitor <NUM> is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames are continuously displayed on the monitor <NUM> as a video in a reverse order from the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning to the ultrasound image corresponding to the start point of scanning. In addition, for example, in a case where the left end part of the graph G1 displayed on the monitor <NUM> is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames are continuously displayed on the monitor <NUM> as a video from the ultrasound image corresponding to the start point of scanning to the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning.

In addition, for example, in a case where an arbitrary designation point present between a point corresponding to the start point of scanning and a point corresponding to the end point of scanning on the graph G1 is designated by the user through the input device <NUM>, ultrasound images having a plurality of frames generated based on the reception signals obtained at a plurality of imaging positions corresponding to a determined range including the designation point on the graph G1 may be reproduced as a video.

The determined range corresponding to the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames on the graph G1 may be set by the user through the input device <NUM>. For example, the determined range on the graph G1 may be set as an initial setting in a case where the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> is used for the first time, and then, the initial setting may be maintained.

In addition, whether to reproduce the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames as a video in accordance with an elapse of time or to reproduce the ultrasound images having the plurality of frames as a video in a reverse order of time may be set by the user through the input device <NUM>. For example, this setting may also be set as an initial setting in a case where the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> is used for the first time, and then, the initial setting may be maintained.

In addition, while the scanning pattern for scanning from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject has been illustrated, the scanning pattern applied to the present invention is not particularly limited thereto. For example, an arbitrary scanning pattern, such as a scanning pattern for scanning from the nipple to the peripheral part of the breast of the subject, determined by a facility such as a hospital in which examination is performed or by the user such as a doctor can be applied to the present invention.

In addition, the operation of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> according to the flowchart of <FIG> has ended in a case where the graph G1 representing a change in time of the height position detected by the sensor <NUM> between the start point and the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM> along one direction is obtained and where the ultrasound image U1 corresponding to the start point of scanning, the ultrasound image corresponding to the end point of scanning, and the graph G1 are displayed on the monitor <NUM> in step S10. In a case where the user examines all of the breasts of the subject, a plurality of scanning ranges are scanned, and processing of step S1 to step S10 is performed at each scanning.

In a case where scanning is performed a plurality of times in such a manner, the display of the scanning number-of-times display panel P1 illustrated in <FIG> is updated by the graph generation unit <NUM>. For example, in a case where the number of times of scanning is one, the scanning number-of-times display panel P1 has only an item corresponding to scanning performed for the first time. In a case where the number of times of scanning reaches two, an item corresponding to scanning performed for the second time is added in addition to the item corresponding to scanning performed for the first time. Thus, the user can select an item corresponding to a desired number of times that scanning has already been performed from the scanning number-of-times display panel P1 and check a graph generated in scanning corresponding to the selected item on the monitor <NUM>.

Accordingly, the user can detect all of the breasts of the subject without missing.

While the user determines whether or not scanning is sufficiently performed in accordance with the determined scanning pattern for the breast of the subject by checking the graph G1 generated by the graph generation unit <NUM> and the ultrasound image U1 in Embodiment <NUM>, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> can assist the determination of the user by determining whether or not scanning is sufficiently performed in accordance with the determined scanning pattern for the breast of the subject.

<FIG> illustrates a configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1A according to Embodiment <NUM>. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1A comprises an apparatus body 3A instead of the apparatus body <NUM> in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> of Embodiment <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. The apparatus body 3A includes a graph memory <NUM>, a scanning completion determination unit <NUM>, and a notification unit <NUM> added to the apparatus body <NUM> in Embodiment <NUM>, comprises an apparatus control unit 20A instead of the apparatus control unit <NUM>, and comprises a processor 22A instead of the processor <NUM>.

In the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1A, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> is connected to the graph memory <NUM>. In addition, the display control unit <NUM> and the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> are connected to the graph generation unit <NUM>. In addition, the notification unit <NUM> is connected to the scanning completion determination unit <NUM>, and the display control unit <NUM> is connected to the notification unit <NUM>.

In addition, the processor 22A is composed of the image generation unit <NUM>, the display control unit <NUM>, the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the graph generation unit <NUM>, the apparatus control unit 20A, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM>, and the notification unit <NUM>.

The graph memory <NUM> is a memory storing a graph template that is a graph representing a typical change in the height position or the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> moved in accordance with the determined scanning pattern for the breast of the subject. The graph memory <NUM> can store graph templates related to the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> corresponding to a plurality of determined scanning patterns and can store graph templates related to the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM> corresponding to the plurality of determined scanning patterns.

For example, recording media such as a flash memory, an HDD, an SSD, an FD, an MO disc, an MT, a RAM, a CD, a DVD, an SD card, and a USB memory can be used as the graph memory <NUM>.

The scanning completion determination unit <NUM> determines whether scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe <NUM> complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed or not completed based on the shape of the graph generated by the graph generation unit <NUM>.

For example, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> compares the graph G1 generated by the graph generation unit <NUM> with the graph template stored in the graph memory <NUM> and, in a case where the shape of the graph G1 is recognized as being almost identical to a shape of the graph template, determines that scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed.

In addition, in a case where the shape of the graph G1 is recognized as being different from the shape of the graph template, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> determines that scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is not completed. For example, in a case where the determined scanning pattern is a scanning pattern from one end part to the other end part of the breast of the subject along one direction and where the graph generated by the graph generation unit <NUM> is, as illustrated in <FIG>, a graph G3 representing a change in the height position of the ultrasound probe <NUM> complying with the scanning pattern from one end part to near the nipple of the breast of the subject along one direction, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> recognizes that a shape of the graph G3 is different from the shape of the graph template, and determines that scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is not completed.

The notification unit <NUM> notifies the user in a case where the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> determines that scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> is not completed. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the notification unit <NUM> can display, on the monitor <NUM>, a notification panel P2 showing a message "Scanning does not seem to be completed to end. Please check and scan again. " indicating that scanning with the ultrasound probe <NUM> is not completed. The user checks the message of the notification panel P2 and performs scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern again.

As described above, according to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1A according to Embodiment <NUM>, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> determines whether or not scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed based on the shape of the graph generated by the graph generation unit <NUM>, and the notification unit <NUM> notifies the user in a case where it is determined that scanning is not completed. Thus, the user can be prevented from overlooking the scanning range by easily determining whether or not the breast of the subject is sufficiently scanned and can sufficiently scan the breast of the subject.

The determined scanning pattern may be designated by the user through the input device <NUM> before examination of the part of the subject. In this case, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> can read out a graph template corresponding to the determined scanning pattern designated by the user from a plurality of graph templates stored in the graph memory <NUM> and determine whether or not scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed by comparing the read graph template with the graph G1 generated by the graph generation unit <NUM>.

In addition, a plurality of graph templates corresponding to types of the sensor <NUM> such as an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor, that is a plurality of graph templates corresponding to types of graphs such as the height position and the inclined angle of the ultrasound probe <NUM>, can be stored in the graph memory <NUM>. In addition, the apparatus control unit 20A can automatically recognize the type of the connected sensor <NUM> in a case where the sensor <NUM> is connected to the apparatus body 3A. In this case, the scanning completion determination unit <NUM> can read out the graph template from the graph memory <NUM> by considering the type of sensor recognized by the apparatus control unit 20A and use the read graph template for determining whether or not scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is completed.

Scanning may be interrupted for some reason during scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern by the user. In this case, scanning performed before and after the interruption may be combined into one to prevent erroneous detection of the end point of scanning.

<FIG> illustrates a configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1B according to Embodiment <NUM>. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1B of Embodiment <NUM> comprises an apparatus body 3B instead of the apparatus body <NUM> in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus <NUM> of Embodiment <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. In addition, the apparatus body 3B includes a scanning combining unit <NUM> added to the apparatus body <NUM> in Embodiment <NUM>, comprises an apparatus control unit 20B instead of the apparatus control unit <NUM>, and comprises a processor 22B instead of the processor <NUM>.

In the apparatus body 3B, the scanning combining unit <NUM> is connected to the scanning detection unit <NUM> and to the apparatus control unit 20B.

In addition, the processor 22B is composed of the image generation unit <NUM>, the display control unit <NUM>, the scanning detection unit <NUM>, the graph generation unit <NUM>, the display image selection unit <NUM>, the apparatus control unit 20B, and the scanning combining unit <NUM>.

In the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1B, scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern may be interrupted based on an instruction of the user provided through the input device <NUM>. In addition, the interrupted scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern may be resumed based on an instruction of the user provided through the input device <NUM>. For example, in a case where a scanning interruption button, not illustrated, is displayed on the monitor <NUM> and where the user selects the scanning interruption button through the input device <NUM>, scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is interrupted. In addition, for example, in a case where a scanning resumption button, not illustrated, is displayed on the monitor <NUM> and where the user selects the scanning resumption button through the input device <NUM>, the interrupted scanning of the determined scanning range is resumed.

In a case where scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is interrupted based on the instruction of the user provided through the input device <NUM> and where scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is resumed based on the instruction of the user, the scanning combining unit <NUM> combines the interrupted scanning and the resumed scanning into one scanning.

For example, in a case where scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is interrupted based on the instruction of the user, the scanning combining unit <NUM> causes the scanning detection unit <NUM> to temporarily stop the processing of detecting the end point of scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern. In addition, in a case where scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is resumed based on the instruction of the user, the scanning combining unit <NUM> causes the scanning detection unit <NUM> to resume the processing of detecting the end point of scanning. Accordingly, the scanning detection unit <NUM> is prevented from erroneously detecting the end point of scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern in a case where scanning complying with the determined scanning pattern is interrupted.

As described above, according to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1B of Embodiment <NUM>, even in a case where scanning of the breast of the subject complying with the determined scanning pattern is interrupted, the interrupted scanning and the resumed scanning are combined into one scanning by the scanning combining unit <NUM>. Thus, the scanning detection unit <NUM> is prevented from erroneously detecting the end point of scanning of the breast of the subject. Accordingly, the user can be prevented from overlooking the scanning range by clearly checking whether or not the breast of the subject as a target to be examined is sufficiently scanned and can sufficiently scan the breast of the subject.

Claim 1:
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus comprising:
a monitor (<NUM>);
an ultrasound probe (<NUM>);
a sensor (<NUM>) that detects an inclined angle or a height position of the ultrasound probe;
an image generation unit (<NUM>) that generates an ultrasound image based on a reception signal obtained by scanning a breast of a subject using the ultrasound probe;
a scanning detection unit (<NUM>) that detects a start point and an end point of scanning of the breast of the subject with the ultrasound probe along one direction based on the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor;
a graph generation unit (<NUM>) that generates a graph representing a change in the inclined angle or the height position of the ultrasound probe detected by the sensor between the start point and the end point of scanning with the ultrasound probe detected by the scanning detection unit and that displays the graph on the monitor; and
a display image selection unit (<NUM>) that, in a case where at least one of a designation point on the graph corresponding to the start point or a designation point on the graph corresponding to the end point is designated by a user, displays an ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit based on a reception signal obtained at an imaging position corresponding to the designation point designated by the user, on the monitor.