Front end position detection system for medical hose

Abstract

The present application relates to a medical tube tip position detection system, the medical tube tip position detection system (1) has: light source device (50) that emits light; hollow tube (10) that has flow path (11) through which liquid can pass; connector (20) provided at the base end of the tube to enable light from the light source device to be incident on the end surface (12) of the base end of the tube; and light emitting portion (30) provided at the tip of the tube. Light from the light source device is transmitted through the tube and emitted from the light emitting portion and transmits the body surface.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a system for detecting the position of the front end of a tube inserted into a human body. BACKGROUND

[0002] In clinical medicine, tube feeding in which various medical tubes are inserted into the body cavity of a patient to perform treatment is widely performed. For example, in order to supply a liquid nutritional agent from the outside to a patient who has difficulty in chewing and swallowing, oral / nasal tube feeding in which the nutritional agent is directly fed into the stomach via a medical tube (referred to as an oral / nasal tube. Hereinafter, simply referred to as "tube.") inserted from the mouth or the nose is performed.

[0003] In the case of performing oral / nasal tube feeding, it is necessary to reliably position the front end of the tube in the stomach. Misinsertion of the tube into the trachea / tracheal branch is extremely dangerous. It is necessary to accurately confirm the position of the front end of the tube in the patient's body.

[0004] As a method of confirming the position of the front end of the tube, X-ray fluoroscopy is the most reliable. However, in order to perform the confirmation, the patient needs to be moved to an X-ray device, and the burden on the patient's body is large. The tube is continuously indwelled in the patient for several days. During this period, the front end of the tube sometimes moves due to a cough reflex, vomiting, or the like. Therefore, it is necessary to confirm the position of the front end at regular intervals. When X-ray fluoroscopy is performed each time, the burden on the patient further increases, and in addition, the X-ray radiation dose also increases.

[0005] A method in which the pH of a liquid drawn up via the tube is measured to determine whether the front end of the tube is in the stomach is sometimes used. However, this method has reduced reliability for patients in which gastric acid secretion is inhibited.

[0006] In Patent Literature 1, a method is described in which a tube into which an optical fiber is previously inserted is inserted into a patient, the light emitted from the front end of the optical fiber is observed from the outside of the body, and thus the position of the front end of the tube is confirmed. This method is relatively simple, and the burden on the patient is small.

[0007] However, in order to feed a nutritional agent into the stomach via the tube, the optical fiber needs to be pulled out of the tube. Then, when the optical fiber is inserted into the tube again, the inserted optical fiber can damage the tube, and accidents such as the protrusion of the optical fiber from the damaged site of the tube and the damage to the digestive tract wall can occur. Therefore, the method of Patent Literature 1 can be used only when the tube is initially inserted into the patient, and cannot be used at the time of regular confirmation of the position of the front end of the tube thereafter.

[0008] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0009] PATENT LITERATURE

[0010] Patent Literature 1: WO2015 / 133119A1

[0011] Patent Literature 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-119837

[0012] Patent Literature 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-029753 SUMMARY

[0013] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0014] The present application aims at detecting the front end position of a tube inserted into a patient simply, accurately and safely.

[0015] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0016] The present application relates to a front end position detection system of a medical tube for detecting the front end position of a tube inserted into a patient. The system comprises: a light source device that emits light; a hollow tube having a flow path through which a liquid can pass; a connector provided at the base end of the tube so that light from the light source device can be incident on the end surface of the base end of the tube; and a light emitting portion provided at the front end of the tube. Light from the light source device is emitted from the light emitting portion by passing through the tube, and light from the light emitting portion is transmitted through the body surface.

[0017] EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0018] According to the present application, the front end position of a tube inserted into a patient can be detected simply, accurately and safely. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration of a front end position detection system of a medical tube according to Embodiment 1 of the present application.

[0020] Figure 2 FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a connector according to Embodiment 1 of the present application. Figure 2 FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the connector.

[0021] Figure 3 FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a light emitting portion according to Embodiment 1 of the present application. Figure 3 FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the light emitting portion.

[0022] Figure 4 FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of another light emitting portion according to Embodiment 1 of the present application. Figure 4 FIG. 3B is a front view of a reflecting surface of a reflecting member of the light emitting portion.

[0023] Figure 5 FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of still another light emitting portion according to Embodiment 1 of the present application. Figure 5 FIG. 4B is a front view of a reflecting surface of a reflecting member of the light emitting portion.

[0024] FIG. 4B is a front view of a reflecting surface of a reflecting member of the light emitting portion.Figure 6 A~ Figure 6 C is a cross-sectional view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 7 A is a perspective view of the light-emitting part according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 7 B is a cross-sectional view of the light-emitting part.

[0026] Figure 8 A is an exploded perspective view taken from the front end side of the light-emitting part according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 8 B is an exploded three-dimensional view viewed from the base side of the light-emitting part.

[0027] Figure 9 A is a cross-sectional view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 9 B is an exploded three-dimensional view viewed from the front end of the light-emitting part.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 11 A is a side view of the light-emitting part according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 11 B is a three-dimensional view of the light-emitting part.

[0030] Figure 12 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 12 B is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the light-emitting part.

[0031] Figure 13 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 13 B is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the light-emitting part.

[0032] Figure 14 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 14 B is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the light-emitting part.

[0033] Figure 15 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 15 B is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the light-emitting part. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the system of the present invention described above, the wavelength of the light emitted by the light source device can be from 360 nm to 3000 nm. Light of this wavelength has high transmittance relative to the human body, thus making it easy to detect the position of the tip of the flexible tube. Furthermore, light of this wavelength has low invasiveness relative to the human body, thus providing excellent safety.

[0035] The connector described above can also have: a male member in a cylindrical shape into which the hose is inserted; an outer cylinder that surrounds the male member; and a female screw formed on an inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder opposite the male member. Thus, instead of a conventional oral / nasal tube, a hose having the connector of the present application can be used for transoral / transnasal tube feeding. The hose is inserted into the male member, so it is easy to cause light from the light source device to be incident on the end surface of the base end of the hose.

[0036] The end surface of the base end of the hose can be exposed from an opening of the front end of the male member. This configuration is advantageous in causing light from the light source device to be incident on the end surface of the base end of the hose.

[0037] The light emitting portion can also include a reflection member that reflects light emitted from the hose. The reflection member reflects light emitted from the hose in various directions including the radial direction (a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the hose). Thus, regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion in the patient's body, light from the light emitting portion can be easily observed from the surface of the patient's body.

[0038] The reflection member can have a spherical surface or a conical surface on the side opposite the end surface of the front end of the hose. In this case, light emitted from the hose can be reflected in various directions including the radial direction by a simple configuration.

[0039] The reflection member can be composed of titanium. Titanium has excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility, so this configuration is advantageous in maintaining good light reflection characteristics over a long period of time.

[0040] The reflection member can be disposed in direct contact with the hose. This configuration is advantageous in simplifying the light emitting portion and facilitating the manufacture of the hose provided with the light emitting portion. In this configuration, a housing can be omitted from the light emitting portion.

[0041] The reflection member can be a metal vapor deposition layer. According to this configuration, the reflection member can be easily provided on the hose.

[0042] The light emitting portion can include a refraction member that refracts light emitted from the hose. The refraction member refracts light emitted from the hose in various directions including the radial direction. Thus, regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion in the patient's body, light from the light emitting portion can be easily observed from the surface of the patient's body.

[0043] The light emitting portion can include a front end of the hose formed in such a way that light that has passed through the hose is refracted and emitted. According to this configuration, light that has passed through the hose is refracted in various directions including the radial direction and emitted from the hose. Thus, regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion in the patient's body, light from the light emitting portion can be easily observed from the surface of the patient's body.

[0044] The light emitting portion can include a hole that penetrates the flexible tube, or a recess that is provided on the inner surface or the outer surface of the flexible tube. According to this arrangement, light that has passed through the flexible tube is refracted by the hole or the recess and emitted in various directions including the radial direction from the flexible tube. Thus, light from the light emitting portion can be easily observed from the surface of the patient's body regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion in the patient's body.

[0045] A light leakage preventing layer can be provided on the outer surface of the flexible tube to prevent light from leaking from the outer surface of the flexible tube. The light emitting portion can have the light leakage preventing layer removed therefrom. According to this arrangement, light that has passed through the flexible tube is refracted from the area where the light leakage preventing layer is removed and emitted in various directions including the radial direction. Thus, light from the light emitting portion can be easily observed from the surface of the patient's body regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion in the patient's body by a simple method.

[0046] The light emitting portion can have a housing. A hole can be provided in the housing to allow liquid that has passed through the flexible tube to flow to the outside. According to this arrangement, liquid that has passed through the flow path of the flexible tube can be discharged to the patient via the hole of the housing. Furthermore, the housing can hold a reflecting member or a refracting member at a desired position with respect to the end surface of the front end of the flexible tube.

[0047] The light emitting portion can have a housing that has light transmittance. According to this arrangement, light loss when light emitted from the front end of the flexible tube passes through the housing is reduced. This is advantageous in ensuring the brightness of the light emitting portion and in easily detecting the position of the front end of the flexible tube.

[0048] The surface roughness Ra of the outer surface of the flexible tube can be 1.2 μm or less. According to this arrangement, light loss when light passes through the flexible tube is reduced. This is advantageous in ensuring the brightness of the light emitting portion and in easily detecting the position of the front end of the flexible tube.

[0049] The outer surface of the flexible tube can be covered with a covering material that has a lower refractive index than the flexible tube. According to this arrangement, light loss when light passes through the flexible tube is reduced. This is advantageous in ensuring the brightness of the light emitting portion and in easily detecting the position of the front end of the flexible tube.

[0050] The system of the present application can further have a tube core or an optical fiber that can be inserted into and removed from the flow path of the flexible tube. The tube core and the optical fiber improve the insertability of the flexible tube. Furthermore, the tube core can enable the position of the flexible tube to be confirmed by X-ray fluoroscopy. The optical fiber improves the brightness of the light emitting portion and enables the position of the front end of the flexible tube to be easily detected.

[0051] The following describes the present application while showing preferred embodiments. The present application is of course not limited to the following embodiments. In the following description, with reference to the drawings, the main components constituting the embodiments of the present application are simply shown for the sake of explanation. Therefore, the present application can be provided with any components not shown in the following drawings. Furthermore, each component shown in the following drawings can be changed or omitted within the scope of the present application. In the description of each embodiment, for components corresponding to those shown in the drawings of the previous embodiment, the same symbols are given as those given in the drawings of the previous embodiment. For such components, the explanation should be omitted or the explanation of the previous embodiment should be appropriately referred to.

[0052] (Embodiment 1)

[0053] Figure 1 A schematic configuration of a system 1 of Embodiment 1 of the present application applied to oral and nasal tube feeding is shown. An oral and nasal tube (hereinafter, simply referred to as a tube) 10 is inserted from the nasal cavity of a patient 90, and the front end thereof reaches the stomach 91. The tube 10 has flexibility to be able to be bent and deformed. The tube 10 is a hollow cylinder in which a continuous flow path 11 (see B of FIG. 4 described later) is formed throughout the entire length thereof. A liquid such as a nutrient agent is delivered to the stomach 91 of the patient through the flow path 11. A connector 20 is provided at the base end of the tube 10. A light emitting portion 30 is provided at the front end of the tube 10. The connector 20 is repeatedly connectable and disconnectable with respect to a light source device 50. When the connector 20 is connected to the light source device 50, light from a light source (not shown) built in the light source device 50 is emitted from the light emitting portion 30 through the tube 10. The light from the light emitting portion 30 transmits through the body of the patient 90 to make the body surface emit light. An operator can confirm the front end position of the tube 10 according to the light emitting position of the body surface of the patient 90. Figure 2 Figure 3

[0054] Figure 2 A is a perspective view of the connector 20, Figure 2 ​​B is a sectional view of the connector 20. The connector 20 is a male connector provided with a male member 21 having a cylindrical shape. An outer peripheral surface 22 of the male member 21 is a tapered surface (so-called male tapered surface) in which the outer diameter becomes smaller as the front end is approached. A cylindrical outer cylinder 23 is disposed coaxially with the male member 21. The outer cylinder 23 is separated from the male member 21 in the radial direction and surrounds the male member 21. A female screw 24 is provided on an inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder 23 opposite the male member 21. A front end of the male member 21 protrudes from a front end of the outer cylinder 23. A cylindrical base cylinder 27 extends coaxially with the male member 21 toward the side opposite the male member 21. A through-hole 29 penetrates the connector 20 from the front end of the male member 21 to the front end of the base cylinder 27. The hose 10 is inserted into the through-hole 29 from the base cylinder 27 to the male member 21. A flat end surface 12 is formed at the base end of the hose 10. The end surface 12 is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the hose 10. The end surface 12 is exposed from the opening of the front end of the male member 21 and constitutes one plane common to the front end surface of the male member 21. The hose 10 is fixed to the connector 20, for example, at the position of the base cylinder 27 by adhesion or the like to the inner surface of the through-hole 29.

[0055] The connector 20 (particularly the outer peripheral surface 22 of the male member 21 and the female screw 24) is configured to have interchangeability with a male connector provided at the base end of an oral / nasal tube generally used in oral / nasal tube feeding (see, for example, Patent Documents 2 and 3). Therefore, the hose 10 provided with the connector 20 can be used instead of the conventional oral / nasal tube to perform oral / nasal tube feeding.

[0056] The connector 20 is formed of a relatively hard material (hard material) and has mechanical strength (rigidity) that does not substantially deform due to external force. Specifically, the material of the connector 20 is not limited, but for example, resins such as polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), polyoxymethylene (POM), polystyrene, polyamide, polyethylene, hard polyvinyl chloride, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), and the like can be used. The connector 20 can be integrally manufactured as one member by injection molding or the like using the above-described resins.

[0057] Figure 3 A of FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the light emitting portion 30, Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the light emitting portion 30. The light emitting portion 30 is provided with a reflection member 31 and a housing 35. The housing 35 has a hollow, bullet shape as a whole, with one end (the front end) of the long direction thereof expanded in a dome shape (a hemispherical shape) and the other end (the base end) open. The front end of the hose 10 is inserted into the opening of the housing 35. The housing 35 is fixed to the hose 10 in a liquid-tight manner by adhesion or the like. The reflection member 31 has a spherical shape and is housed in the deepest part of an inner cavity 36 of the housing 35. A flat end surface 13 is formed at the front end of the hose 10. The end surface 13 is perpendicular to the long direction of the hose 10. The reflection member 31 is opposed to and separated from the end surface 13. The center of the reflection member 31 is located on the central axis of the hose 10. The outer diameter of the reflection member 31 is not limited, but is preferably the same as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the hose 10. Light emitted through the hose 10 and from the end surface 13 is reflected by a spherical surface 32 of the reflection member 31 and passes through the housing 35.

[0058] A hole (a side hole) 37 is provided in the housing 35 so as to pass through the housing 35 in the radial direction. Here, the "radial direction" refers to the direction of a straight line orthogonal to the central axis of the hose 10 (which passes through the center of the reflection member 31). The hole 37 communicates the inner cavity 36 of the housing 35 between the end surface 13 and the reflection member 31 with the outside of the housing 35. Two holes 37 are provided in this embodiment 1, but the number of holes 37 can be one or more than three.

[0059] The reflection member 31 can be composed of an optical non-transmissive material. The optical non-transmissive material is not limited, but is preferably a metal such as titanium, stainless steel, a cobalt alloy, aluminum, iron, or the like. Titanium, stainless steel, and a cobalt alloy have excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility and can maintain good light reflection properties for a long period of time. Among these, titanium is more preferable. Stainless steel, aluminum, and iron are less expensive. Titanium, aluminum, and the like are non-magnetic or low-magnetic, and thus are difficult to be attracted during MRI examination. The spherical surface 32 of the reflection member 31 preferably has a gloss, and is particularly preferably mirror-finished so as to function as a reflection surface that reflects light emitted from the end surface 13. The reflection member 31 can also function as a counterweight for facilitating insertion of the hose 10 into the digestive tract. In order to ensure a required load at the front end of the hose 10, a counterweight other than the reflection member 31 can also be housed in the housing 35. In this case, the additional counterweight is disposed on the side opposite to the end surface 31 with respect to the reflection member 31.

[0060] The reflective component 31 can also be made of a light-transmitting material. Even a light-transmitting material can be used as a reflective component 31 as long as it can reflect at least a portion of the light emitted from the end face 13. The light-transmitting material can be plastic, glass, etc. Plastic and glass are low conductors of electricity, so they will not cause burns due to heat during MRI examinations. The surface of the light-transmitting material can also be processed to reflect light (reflective processing). There are no limitations on the reflective processing, but examples include various coatings, pear-skin finishes, metal vapor deposition, mirror finishes, etc. The reflective component 31 can also be a mirror.

[0061] A portion of the light incident on the reflecting member 31 is reflected by the surface of the reflecting member 31, and the remaining light may not be incident on the reflecting member 31. In this case, the light may also be refracted when it is incident on the reflecting member 31 and when it is emitted from the reflecting member 31. That is, the reflecting member 31 may also function as a refractive member (see Embodiment 2 described later).

[0062] The material of the housing 35 is not limited, but it is preferred to have light transmittance and flexibility, such as polyurethane, polyethylene, silicone, acrylic, polypropylene and other resins.

[0063] The material of the hose 10 is not limited, but it is preferred to have flexibility and light transmission. For example, resins such as polyurethane, acrylic, silicone, polyethylene, styrene elastomer, and polybutadiene can be used.

[0064] In this embodiment 1, from the end face 12 of the base end (refer to...) Figure 2 B) The incident light is transmitted through the flexible tube 10 (the portion of the tube 10 between its inner and outer surfaces that constitutes the thickness of the tube 10, hereinafter referred to as the "thickness portion of the tube 10"), and from the end face 13 at the front end (refer to Figure 3 (B) The light-emitting part 30 emits light. In order to ensure the brightness (beam) of the light-emitting part 30, it is preferable to reduce the light loss between the end face 12 and the end face 13. For this purpose, it is effective to reduce the light emitted from the outer surface of the hose 10 to the outside (light leakage) between the end face 12 and the end face 13. There are no limitations on the method of reducing light leakage, but for example, one or more of the following can be used: (1) smoothing the outer surface of the hose 10, (2) covering the outer surface of the hose 10 with a covering material with a refractive index lower than that of the hose 10, (3) providing a metal vapor-deposited layer such as silver or aluminum on the outer surface of the hose 10, (4) making the hose 10 a double-layer structure with a high refractive index inner layer and a low refractive index outer layer.

[0065] With regard to the above (1), the surface roughness Ra of the outer surface of the hose 10 is preferably 1.2 μm or less, more preferably 1.0 μm or less, and particularly preferably 0.4 μm or less. The method for smoothing the outer surface of the hose 10 is not limited, but for example, in the case of molding by extruding the resin material of the hose 10 from a nozzle, a method of making the nozzle temperature higher than normally set can be employed.

[0066] With regard to the above (2), as a covering material for covering the outer surface of the hose 10, based on the material of the hose 10, but for example, silicone oil, fluorine, a UV-curable low-refractive material can be exemplified. The refractive index of these is lower than the above resin material constituting the hose 10, and thus light emitted from the inside of the hose 10 toward the covering material layer can be reduced. The method for covering the outer surface of the hose 10 with fluorine is not limited, but a method of applying liquid fluorine on the outer surface of the hose 10, a method of spraying fluorine gas toward the outer surface of the hose 10, and the like can be exemplified.

[0067] With regard to the above (4), the hose 10 of a double-layer structure can be manufactured by performing double-layer simultaneous extrusion molding of two kinds of materials having different refractive indexes in a manner that the high-refractive material becomes the inner layer and the low-refractive material becomes the outer layer. Alternatively, the hose 10 can have a triple-layer structure composed of a low-refractive inner layer and an outer layer, and a high-refractive intermediate layer therebetween. The hose 10 can also have a more layered structure (for example, a five-layer structure). In any case, light passes through the high-refractive layer.

[0068] In order to ensure the brightness (light beam) of the light emitting portion 30, reduction of light loss at the end surfaces 12, 13 of the hose 10 is also effective. For this purpose, it is preferable that the end surfaces 12, 13 are smooth, and specifically, the surface roughness Ra of the end surfaces 12, 13 is 1.2 μm or less, more preferably 1.0 μm or less, and particularly preferably 0.4 μm or less. Such smooth end surfaces 12, 13 can be obtained, for example, by polishing processing of the end surfaces 12, 13.

[0069] Return Figure 1The light source device 50 is provided with a light source (not shown) that emits light. The light is preferably visible light or near-infrared light, and the wavelength of the light is not limited, but is preferably 360 nm or more, more preferably 630 nm or more, and is preferably 3000 nm or less, more preferably 780 nm or less. Light having a wavelength in this range has high transmittance with respect to the human body and is less invasive and safer with respect to the human body. Visible light can be observed with the naked eye, and thus the position of the light emitting portion 30 can be easily confirmed. Near-infrared light has excellent light transmittance compared to visible light, and can be observed by a dedicated camera such as an infrared camera. By using a camera, the captured image (still image and moving image) can be easily retained as a record. Specifically, light having a wavelength of 630 nm can be used as visible light, and light having a wavelength of 780 nm can be used as near-infrared light. A light emitting diode (LED) can be used as the light source. The light source device 50 is provided with a socket (insertion port) 51 that allows the connector 20 to be attached and detached. The light source is disposed so as to oppose the end surface 12 of the hose 10 when the connector 20 is connected to the socket 51. The light source can also be provided with a lens so as to allow light to be efficiently incident on the end surface 12. The socket 51 can also be provided with a switch (not shown) that turns the light emission of the light source on / off in conjunction with the attachment and detachment of the connector 20 with respect to the socket 51. This is advantageous in reliably preventing light emitted from the light source device 50 from entering the eyes of the operator or the patient when the connector 20 is not connected. The light source device 50 can also be provided with a plurality of sockets 51, in which case the plurality of sockets 51 can each be provided with a light source that generates light having a wavelength different from one another. For example, the first socket can be provided with a light source that emits light having a wavelength of 630 nm, and the second socket can be provided with a light source that emits light having a wavelength of 780 nm. Alternatively, the light source device 50 can be configured so as to be able to switch a plurality of light sources (for example, a first light source that emits light having a wavelength of 630 nm and a second light source that emits light having a wavelength of 780 nm) that generate light having different wavelengths with respect to a single socket 51. The power source of the light source device 50 can be either an industrial power source or a battery (including an accumulator). In the case where a battery is used as the power source, it is easy to achieve an increase in portability, miniaturization, and weight reduction of the light source device 50.

[0070] A method of using the system 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0071] As with a general oral / nasal tube, the tube 10 is inserted into the nasal cavity of the patient 90. When the connector 20 is connected to the light source device 50, the light emitting portion 30 emits light. The light from the light emitting portion 30 is transmitted through the human body. The operator can confirm the position of the light emitting portion 30 based on the position of the light emission on the surface of the body of the patient 90. The light can be observed with the naked eye depending on the wavelength. The light emission position can also be confirmed by photographing with an infrared camera as needed. The connector 20 can be connected to the light source device 50 before the tube 10 is inserted into the patient 90, or can be connected to the light source device 50 at the time when the light emitting portion 30 is considered to have reached the stomach.

[0072] The tube 10 in which a tube core is inserted in advance in the flow path 11 can also be inserted into the patient 90. The base end of the tube core can be guided from the connector 20. In this case, the connector 20 is connected to the light source device 50 after the tube core is pulled out of the tube 10.

[0073] The tube 10 in which an optical fiber is inserted in the flow path 11 so that the front end of the optical fiber reaches the light emitting portion 30 can also be inserted into the patient 90. Using the light source device 50, the front end of the optical fiber is caused to emit light in addition to causing the light emitting portion 30 to emit light. The light beam from the light emitting portion 30 is increased, and thus the position of the light emitting portion 30 can be more accurately confirmed. After the front end of the tube 10 is confirmed to have reached the stomach, the optical fiber is pulled out of the tube 10.

[0074] In the case where the tube core or the optical fiber is inserted in the tube 10, the bending elastic modulus and the strength of the tube 10 are increased compared to the case where the tube 10 is alone, and thus the insertability of the tube 10 with respect to the human body is improved. The tube core or the optical fiber preferably has a bending elastic modulus higher than that of the tube 10. The tube core or the optical fiber having a bending elastic modulus higher than that of the tube 10 is superior in assembly with respect to the tube 10 compared to the tube core or the optical fiber having a bending elastic modulus lower than that of the tube 10.

[0075] At the time of first insertion of the tube 10 into the patient, X-ray fluoroscopy can also be used in combination in order to more accurately confirm the position of the tube 10. It is known that halides can be confirmed under X-ray fluoroscopy. The halide can be contained in the tube 10. Specifically, the tube 10 can be provided with X-ray contrast by applying a halide to the outer surface of the tube 10, mixing a halide in the material constituting the tube 10, or polymerizing a halide in the resin constituting the tube 10, or the like. In the case where the optical fiber is inserted into the tube 10, the optical fiber can also be provided with X-ray contrast by containing a halide in the optical fiber by the same method as described above. The tube core includes a metal thin wire, and thus has X-ray contrast. Therefore, in the case where the tube core is inserted into the tube 10, it is not necessary to provide the tube 10 with X-ray contrast.

[0076] After confirming that the front end of the tube 10 (i.e., the light emitting portion 30) has reached the stomach, the connector 20 is connected to a connector (female connector) provided at the downstream end of the tube through which the nutrient agent is delivered (see, for example, FIG. 16A of Patent Document 3). The nutrient agent is delivered to the patient through the flow path 11 of the tube 10 and through the hole 37 of the housing 35.

[0077] The tube 10 is left in the patient 90 for several days. During this period, the tube 10 is sometimes rolled up or the like and the light emitting portion 30 moves. Therefore, every prescribed time (for example, immediately before the nutrient agent is delivered to the patient 90), the connector 20 is connected to the light source device 50, the light emitting portion 30 is caused to emit light, and the position thereof is confirmed.

[0078] As described above, according to the present embodiment 1, the light emitting portion 30 provided at the front end of the tube 10 is caused to emit light, and the light from the light emitting portion 30 is observed through the body of the patient 90. Therefore, the position of the front end of the tube 10 can be detected easily and accurately. The light emitted from the light emitting portion 30 is different from X-rays, and is higher in safety. The reflecting member 31 reflects the light from the end face 13 in various directions, and therefore the light from the light emitting portion 30 can be observed from the surface of the body of the patient 90 regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion 30.

[0079] In the above-described Patent Document 1, in order to confirm the position of the front end of the tube, an optical fiber needs to be inserted into the tube. After the tube 10 is inserted into the patient and the optical fiber is pulled out, in order to confirm the position of the front end of the tube again, the optical fiber needs to be inserted into the tube again. This time, an accident in which the optical fiber penetrates the tube and damages the digestive tract wall occurs. In contrast, in the present embodiment 1, the tube 10 itself becomes a light transmission path, and the light emitting portion 30 is provided at the front end of the tube 10. In the present embodiment 1, the optical fiber which is necessary in Patent Document 1 is not needed. Therefore, in the present embodiment 1, the above-described accident which can occur in Patent Document 1 does not occur. After the tube 10 is inserted into the patient 90, the position of the front end of the tube 10 can be confirmed at any time. The system 1 of the present embodiment 1 is excellent in safety.

[0080] In the present embodiment 1, the tube 10 itself functions as a light guide member, and therefore an optical fiber or the like is not needed in addition to the tube 10. Therefore, the system 1 of the present embodiment 1 is simple in configuration and low in price.

[0081] In the above-described embodiment, the light emitting portion 30 has the spherical reflecting member 31, and the light emitted from the end face 13 is reflected by the spherical surface 32 of the reflecting member 31. However, the reflecting member of the present application is not limited to this.

[0082] For example, as Figure 4 A and Figure 4As shown in A of FIG. 10, the light emitting section 30a can include a reflection member 31a having a quadrangular pyramid surface 32a as a reflection surface. The quadrangular pyramid surface 32a is disposed coaxially with the hose 10 and is disposed apart from and opposite to the end surface 13. Light emitted from the end surface 13 is reflected by the quadrangular pyramid surface 32a and passes through the housing 35. The reflection member 31a can have any pyramid surface (preferably a square pyramid surface) instead of the quadrangular pyramid surface 32a.

[0083] Alternatively, as shown in B of FIG. 10, the light emitting section 30b can include a reflection member 31b having a circular cone surface 32b as a reflection surface. The circular cone surface 32b is disposed coaxially with the hose 10 and is disposed apart from and opposite to the end surface 13. Light emitted from the end surface 13 is reflected by the circular cone surface 32b and passes through the housing 35. The reflection member 31b has a flat surface 33b on the side opposite to the circular cone surface 32b and a cylindrical surface 34b connecting the circular cone surface 32b and the flat surface 33b. Such a reflection member 31b can be easily manufactured by cutting (e.g., lathe cutting) a metal material. Figure 5 Figure 5 Alternatively, as shown in B of FIG. 10, the light emitting section 30b can include a reflection member 31b having a circular cone surface 32b as a reflection surface. The circular cone surface 32b is disposed coaxially with the hose 10 and is disposed apart from and opposite to the end surface 13. Light emitted from the end surface 13 is reflected by the circular cone surface 32b and passes through the housing 35. The reflection member 31b has a flat surface 33b on the side opposite to the circular cone surface 32b and a cylindrical surface 34b connecting the circular cone surface 32b and the flat surface 33b. Such a reflection member 31b can be easily manufactured by cutting (e.g., lathe cutting) a metal material.

[0084] The reflection member can have any convex curved surface other than the convex cone surfaces 32a and 32b and the spherical surface 32 on the side opposite to the end surface 13 as a reflection surface. The reflection surface of the reflection member need not be convex and can be concave. The reflection member need not have a block shape as a whole and can have, for example, a ring shape opposite to the end surface 13. The ring-shaped reflection member can be separated from the end surface 13 or can be in contact with the end surface 13 (see, for example, A of FIG. 11 described later). Figure 6 The reflection member can be configured such that the nutrient agent flowing out of the front end of the hose 10 passes through an opening in the center of the ring-shaped reflection member.

[0085] The housing 35 itself can have a function as a reflection member. For example, a surface opposite to the end surface 13 is provided on the housing 35 as a reflection surface. Light emitted from the end surface 13 is reflected by the reflection surface of the housing 35. The reflection surface can have any shape such as a spherical surface, a conical surface, and a ring shape. The reflection surface need not be convex and can be concave. The reflection surface can be separated from the end surface 13 or can be in contact with the end surface 13. In the case where the housing 35 has a reflection surface, the light emitting section need not have a reflection member as a different member from the housing 35. Therefore, the configuration of the light emitting section is simplified. In addition, a part of light incident on the reflection surface of the housing 35 can be incident on the reflection surface and emitted from the outer surface of the housing 35. The light can be refracted when incident on the housing 35 and when emitted from the housing 35. That is, the housing 35 functions as a reflection member and also functions as a refractive member (see Embodiment 2 described later). A metal evaporation layer or various coating layers can be provided on the reflection surface of the housing 35. ​

[0086] The reflective component can also be disposed in direct contact with the hose 10. In this invention, such a reflective component is referred to as a "direct contact type reflective component." For example, such as... Figure 6 As shown in Figure A, the light-emitting part 30c may also include a direct-contact type reflective member 31c disposed on the end face 13 of the flexible tube 10. Alternatively, as... Figure 6 As shown in Figure B, the light-emitting part 30d may also include a direct-contact type reflective member 31d disposed in the region near the end face 13 of the inner surface of the flexible tube 10. Alternatively, as Figure 6 As shown in Figure C, the light-emitting part 30e may also include a direct-contact type reflective member 31e disposed on the inner surface of the flexible tube 10 in a region slightly away from the end face 13. There are no limitations on the direct-contact type reflective member, but examples include metal vapor deposition layers and various coatings, with metal vapor deposition layers being particularly preferred. Alternatively, a reflective member manufactured as a separate component from the flexible tube 10 may be fixed to the flexible tube 10 and used as a direct-contact type reflective member. Light is incident from the thickness portion of the flexible tube 10 onto the direct-contact type reflective member, reflected by the reflective member, and then passes through the thickness portion of the flexible tube 10 again, exiting from the flexible tube 10 (e.g., the outer surface of the flexible tube 10). The light-emitting part including the direct-contact type reflective member has a simple structure, making it easy to install the light-emitting part in the flexible tube. Furthermore, the light-emitting part does not need to have a housing 35. By omitting the housing 35, no light loss occurs due to light passing through the housing 35. Also, the possibility of light loss due to the presence of a nutrient solution between the flexible tube 10 and the reflective member is low. The direct-contact type reflective member may also be disposed on the outer surface of the flexible tube 10.

[0087] Under normal circumstances, it is difficult to control the orientation of the light-emitting part within the patient's body; therefore, light is preferably emitted from the light-emitting part in various directions, including radial. For this purpose, it is desirable for the light-emitting part to emit more light radially rather than along the long side of the tube 10. Figure 6 In section B, a conical chamfer 13d is formed at the end face 13 of the flexible tube 10, and a reflective element 31d is also provided at the chamfer 13d. This allows light incident on the chamfer 13d to be reflected radially outwards. The amount of light emitted from the end face 13, approximately along the long side of the flexible tube 10, is relatively reduced. Figure 6 In C, the reflective element 31e is disposed away from the end face 13. More light is reflected by the reflective element 31e and emitted from the hose 10 in a generally radial direction. Less light reaches the end face 13. Therefore, the amount of light emitted from the end face 13 in a generally longitudinal direction along the long side of the hose 10 is relatively reduced.

[0088] In order to improve the emission of light from the flexible tube 10, the low-refractive covering material, the metal evaporation layer, the low-refractive material layer, and the like (hereinafter, these are collectively referred to as "light leakage prevention layer") provided in the flexible tube 10 for the purpose of reducing light leakage can be removed in the light emission region. Alternatively, or in addition to this, a minute unevenness can be provided in the light emission region of the outer surface of the flexible tube 10. The "minute unevenness" can be an irregular unevenness like a pear skin, or a regular unevenness like a knurled surface or a serpentine shape. The minute unevenness also has a diffusion effect of emitting light from the flexible tube 10 in various directions.

[0089] (Embodiment 2)

[0090] Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in the light emitting portion. Figure 7 A of FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the light emitting portion 230 of Embodiment 2. Figure 7 B of FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the light emitting portion 230. As Figure 7 B of FIG. 23, the light emitting portion 230 of Embodiment 2 is provided with a refractive member 231 instead of the reflecting member 31 (see Figure 3 B of FIG. 23). The refractive member 231 is composed of a first prism 233 and a second prism 237 having different refractive indexes.

[0091] Figure 8 A of FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view as viewed from the front end side of the light emitting portion 230, Figure 8 B of FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view as viewed from the base end side of the light emitting portion 230. In Figure 8 A of FIG. 23 and Figure 8 B of FIG. 23, the illustration of the housing 35 (see Figure 7 A of FIG. 23 and Figure 7 B of FIG. 23) is omitted. The first prism 233 is provided with a concave tapered surface 234 facing the second prism 237, a flat surface 235 facing the flexible tube 10, and a cylindrical surface 236 connecting the outer peripheral edge of the concave tapered surface 234 and the outer peripheral edge of the flat surface 235. The second prism 237 is provided with a convex tapered surface 238 facing the first prism 233, and a convex curved surface (spherical surface) 239 on the side opposite to the first prism 233. The concave tapered surface 234 has a shape obtained by cutting a right quadrangular pyramid surface with the cylindrical surface 236 coaxial therewith. The convex tapered surface 238 has the same geometric shape as the concave tapered surface 234. As Figure 7The first prism 233 and the second prism 237 are joined and combined in a manner that the four side surfaces of the concave tapered surface 234 and the four side surfaces of the convex tapered surface 238 are in contact with each other, as shown in B. The flat surface 235 of the first prism 233 is parallel to and separated from the end surface 13 of the hose 10. The cylindrical surface 236 of the first prism 233 and the convex curved surface 239 of the second prism 237 are in close contact with the inner surface of the case 35. The first and second prisms 233, 237 are coaxially arranged with the hose 10. The outer diameter of the first and second prisms 233, 237 is not limited, but is preferably the same as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the hose 10.

[0092] The first prism 233 and the second prism 237 are made of a hard material having light transmissivity. The material of the first and second prisms 233, 237 is not limited, but is preferably a material generally used as an optical material, specifically, a glass, a polymethyl methacrylate resin (PMMA), a polystyrene, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, or the like. The first prism 233 and the second prism 237 are made of materials having different refractive indexes.

[0093] Light emitted from the end surface 13 of the hose 10 is incident on the flat surface 235, and a part of the light sequentially passes through the joint surface of the concave tapered surface 234 and the convex tapered surface 238, the convex curved surface 239, and the case 35, and another part of the light sequentially passes through the cylindrical surface 236 and the case 35. The light is refracted when passing through the boundary surfaces (refraction surfaces) of the flat surface 235, the joint surface of the concave tapered surface 234 and the convex tapered surface 238, the convex curved surface 239, and the cylindrical surface 236, which have different refractive indexes. The refraction member 231 refracts the light from the end surface 13 in various directions, and thus, as with the reflection member 31 of Embodiment 1, the light from the light emitting portion 230 can be observed from the body surface of the patient 90 regardless of the orientation of the light emitting portion 230.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the joint surface (the concave tapered surface 234 and the convex tapered surface 238) of the first prism 233 and the second prism 237 is in the shape of a part of a regular quadrangular pyramid, but the present application is not limited thereto. The joint surface of the first prism 233 and the second prism 237 can be in the shape of a part of an arbitrary regular polygonal pyramid, or can be in the shape of a conical surface. The joint surface of the first prism 233 and the second prism 237 can be in the shape of a spherical surface, an arbitrary curved surface, or the like, rather than a conical surface. The first prism 233 can have a convex surface, and the second prism 237 can have a concave surface that is joined to the convex surface.

[0095] A part or all of the light incident on the above refraction surface can be reflected by the joint surface.

[0096] The refraction member can be made of three or more prisms.

[0097] The refractive member can be composed of a single prism. For example, the refractive member can also be composed of only the second prism 237. In this case, the light emitted from the end face 13 is refracted when passing through the convex conical face 238 and the convex curved face 239.

[0098] The second prism 237 can also be integrated with the housing 35 using the same material as the housing 35. In this case, the first prism 233 can be present or omitted.

[0099] Figure 9 A of FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another light emitting portion 230a of the present embodiment 2. The light emitting portion 230a has a refractive member 231a composed of a single prism. Figure 9 B of FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view as viewed from the front end side of the light emitting portion 230a. In Figure 9 B of FIG. 10, the illustration of the housing 35 (refer to Figure 9 A of FIG. 10) is omitted. The refractive member (prism) 231a has a flat face 235a opposed to the hose 10, a convex conical face 234a on the opposite side of the flat face 235a, and a cylindrical face 236a connecting the outer peripheral edge of the flat face 235a and the outer peripheral edge of the convex conical face 234a. The convex conical face 234a has a shape obtained by cutting a right quadrangular pyramid face with the cylindrical face 236a coaxial therewith. As shown in Figure 9 A of FIG. 10, the flat face 235a is parallel to and separated from the end face 13 of the hose 10. The cylindrical face 236a is in close contact with the inner surface of the housing 35. The refractive member 231a is arranged coaxially with the hose 10. The light emitted from the end face 13 is incident on the flat face 235a, and a part of the light passes through the convex conical face 234a and the housing 35 in this order, and another part of the light passes through the cylindrical face 236a and the housing 35 in this order. The light is refracted when passing through the boundary faces (refraction faces) of which the refractive indexes are changed, such as the flat face 235a, the convex conical face 234a, and the cylindrical face 236a. The convex conical face 234a can also be an arbitrary square conical face or a circular conical face.

[0100] Figure 10 A of FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of still another light emitting portion 230b of the present embodiment 2. The light emitting portion 230b of Figure 10 FIG. 11, the refractive member (prism) 231b of the same material as the housing 35 is integrated with the housing 35. That is, a concave conical face 234b is provided on the inner surface of the housing 35. The concave conical face 234b has a shape obtained by cutting a right quadrangular pyramid face with a cylindrical face (inner peripheral face of the housing 35) coaxial therewith. The concave conical face 234b is arranged coaxially with the hose 10 and is arranged in opposition to and separated from the end face 13. The light emitted from the end face 13 is refracted when incident on the concave conical face 234b, passes through the refractive member 231b, and is emitted from the outer surface of the housing 35. The concave conical face 234b can also be an arbitrary square conical face or a circular conical face.

[0101] The shape of the refractive surface of the refractive component can be any shape, such as a convex surface (convex curved surface or convex conical surface), a concave surface (concave curved surface or concave conical surface), or a flat surface. The refractive surface may also have the minute irregularities described in Embodiment 1.

[0102] This embodiment 2 is the same as embodiment 1 except for the above-described contents. The description of embodiment 1 can also be applied to this embodiment 2.

[0103] (Implementation Method 3)

[0104] The light-emitting part in Embodiment 3 differs from that in Embodiments 1 and 2. The light-emitting part in Embodiment 3 includes the front end of the flexible tube 10, which is formed in such a way that light is refracted and emitted in various directions when emitted from the flexible tube 10.

[0105] Figure 11 A is a side view of the light-emitting part 330 in this embodiment 3. Figure 11 B is a perspective view of the light-emitting part 330. The light-emitting part 330 does not have the reflective members 31, 31a-31e of Embodiment 1, or the refractive members 231, 231a, 231b of Embodiment 2. The light-emitting part 330 includes four wedge-shaped cuts 331 formed at the front end of the flexible tube 10. The four cuts 331 are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the flexible tube 10 and are arranged at equal intervals. Each cut 331 is composed of a first surface 331a parallel to the long side direction of the flexible tube 10 and a second surface 331b inclined relative to the first surface 331a. At the deepest part of the cut 331, the first surface 331a and the second surface 331b are connected.

[0106] Light passing through the flexible tube 10 is refracted when emitted from the first surface 331a and the second surface 331b. The first and second surfaces 331a and 331b are arranged at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the flexible tube 10, so the light emitted from the first and second surfaces 331a and 331b travels in various directions. Similar to embodiments 1 and 2, the light from the light-emitting part 330 can be observed from the body surface of the patient 90 regardless of the orientation of the light-emitting part 330.

[0107] The light-emitting part 330 may also have the same housing as the housing 35 in embodiments 1 and 2. The front end of the flexible tube 10, which has a cutout 331, is housed in the housing. The housing may also contain a counterweight for inserting the flexible tube 10 into the digestive tract. The counterweight is arranged separately from the cutout 331 in the direction of the long side of the flexible tube 10.

[0108] The shape of the cut 331 is not limited to the approximately right-angled triangle described above; it can also be any triangle, such as an isosceles triangle. Alternatively, the cut 331 can also be any polygon other than a triangle (e.g., a trapezoid) or any curve. Furthermore, the number of cuts 331 is not limited to the above embodiment. The cuts 331 can also be arranged at unequal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0109] In the above embodiment, the light-emitting part 330 has multiple cutouts 331, but the present invention is not limited to this. As long as the front end of the flexible tube 10 is provided with a shape that refracts light, the light passing through the flexible tube 10 can be emitted at an angle relative to the long side direction of the flexible tube 10. For example, the end face of the front end of the flexible tube 10 can be a conical surface with an inner diameter that increases towards the front end and an outer diameter that decreases towards the front end. In this case, light can be refracted and emitted in various directions.

[0110] Figure 12 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part 330a in this embodiment 3. Figure 12 B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the light-emitting part 330a. The front end portion of the flexible tube 10 is divided into multiple branches 332 by multiple cuts along the long side of the flexible tube 10. The multiple branches 332 are bent radially outward into a trumpet shape. Adjacent branches 332 are separated from each other in the circumferential direction. Light passing through the flexible tube 10 is emitted from the side and front end faces of each branch 332. The light is refracted when emitted from each face of the branch 332. The multiple branches 332 are bent in different directions, so the light emitted from each face of each branch 332 travels in various directions. Regardless of the orientation of the light-emitting part 330a, the light from the light-emitting part 330a can be observed from the body surface of the patient 90. The light leakage prevention layer provided on the flexible tube 10 can also be removed from the front end portion of the flexible tube 10 where the multiple branches 332 are formed.

[0111] Figure 13 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part 330b in this embodiment 3. Figure 13 B is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the light-emitting part 330b. The front end portion of the flexible tube 10 is bent radially inward. The end face 13 of the front end of the flexible tube 10 is formed as a generally concave conical surface. Light passing through the flexible tube 10 is emitted from the end face 13. The light is refracted when emitted from the end face 13. The end face 13 is bent into a generally concave conical shape, so the light emitted from the end face 13, like light emitted from a convex lens, diffuses after a temporary convergence. Therefore, regardless of the orientation of the light-emitting part 330b, the light from the light-emitting part 330b can be observed from the body surface of the patient 90.

[0112] Figure 14 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part 330c in this embodiment 3. Figure 14B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the light-emitting part 330c. A plurality of insertion holes 333, radially penetrating the flexible tube 10, are formed near the front end of the flexible tube 10. Most of the light passing through the flexible tube 10 is emitted from the side of the holes 333 (the surface defining the holes 333 and connecting the inner and outer surfaces of the flexible tube 10) before reaching the end face 13. The light is refracted as it exits from the side. The plurality of holes 333 are arranged at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction, so the light emitted from the side of each hole 333 travels in various directions. Relatively little light is emitted from the end face 13, approximately along the long side of the flexible tube 10. Regardless of the orientation of the light-emitting part 330c, the light from the light-emitting part 330c can be observed from the body surface of the patient 90. The long side direction of the holes 333 can be parallel to the long side direction of the flexible tube 10, but is preferably as follows: Figure 14 A and Figure 14 As shown in Figure B, it is slightly inclined relative to the long side of the hose 10. This facilitates the diffusion of light from the light-emitting part 330c over a wider area. The number of holes 333 is arbitrary.

[0113] Figure 15 A is a perspective view of another light-emitting part 330d in this embodiment 3. Figure 15 B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the light-emitting portion 330d. Near the front end of the flexible tube 10, one or more (two in this example) generally elliptical (or generally circular) holes 334 are formed, extending radially through the flexible tube 10. A portion of the light passing through the flexible tube 10 is emitted from the side of the holes 334 (the surface defining the holes 334 and connecting the inner and outer surfaces of the flexible tube 10) before reaching the end face 13. The light is refracted as it is emitted from the side. The multiple holes 334 are discretely arranged circumferentially, and the side of each hole 334 forms a generally elliptical (or generally circular) closed curved surface, thus allowing the light emitted from the side of each hole 334 to travel in various directions. Relatively less light is emitted from the end face 13, generally along the long side of the flexible tube 10. Regardless of the orientation of the light-emitting portion 330d, the light from the light-emitting portion 330d can be observed from the body surface of the patient 90. The number of holes 334 is arbitrary, but a larger number is preferred, specifically four or more. The more holes 334 there are, the more light can be diffused from the light-emitting part 330d over a wider area.

[0114] In the light-emitting parts 330c and 330d, the shapes of the holes 333 and 334 are arbitrary, such as ellipses, circles, various polygons (triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, etc.), arcs, "V" shapes, etc. The number of holes 333 and 334 is arbitrary; there doesn't need to be multiple, and there can be only one. The arrangement of the holes 333 and 334 is also arbitrary. When multiple holes 333 and 334 are provided, they can be approximately equally spaced circumferentially, or they can be not approximately equally spaced circumferentially. A column of multiple holes 333 and 334 arranged along the circumference of the flexible tube 10 can be set at multiple different positions along the long side of the flexible tube 10.

[0115] The light-emitting portions 330c and 330d can also replace the holes 333 and 334 that penetrate the flexible tube 10, and have recesses that do not penetrate the flexible tube 10. The recesses can also be provided on either the inner or outer surface of the flexible tube 10. Light is refracted when it exits from the surface defined by the recess.

[0116] A high refractive index layer (a layer of material with a refractive index higher than that of the hose 10) or minute irregularities as described in Embodiment 1 can be provided in the area near the end face 13 of the hose 10's tip and / or the area near the tip of the inner surface and / or outer surface of the hose 10. Alternatively, the light-leakage prevention layer can be removed in the area near the tip of the inner surface and / or outer surface of the hose 10. Two or more of the following can be combined: the application of a high refractive index layer, the application of minute irregularities, and the removal of the light-leakage prevention layer. Light is refracted and emitted from the area where these treatments have been performed (the light-emitting area). The location of the light-emitting area is arbitrary. Similar to the location of the direct-contact reflective member described in Embodiment 1, when the light-emitting area is positioned slightly away from the end face 13 of the hose 10, less light reaches the end face 13 of the hose 10, thus facilitating the emission of light in various directions.

[0117] The light-emitting parts 330a to 330d may also have the same housing as the housing 35 in embodiments 1 and 2. The front end portion of the flexible tube 10, which is configured to emit light in a refracted manner, is housed within the housing. The housing may also contain a counterweight for facilitating the insertion of the flexible tube 10 into the digestive tract. The counterweight is disposed separately from the front end of the flexible tube 10 along the long side of the flexible tube 10.

[0118] As described above, the light-emitting part of this embodiment 3 includes a configuration in which light is emitted in various directions, including radial, from the flexible tube itself. The light-emitting part of this embodiment 3 does not require the reflective component of embodiment 1 or the refractive component of embodiment 2. Therefore, the number of components constituting the light-emitting part is smaller, and the configuration of the light-emitting part is simpler. Furthermore, light loss that may occur due to the separation of the flexible tube from the reflective or refractive component does not occur in this embodiment 3. However, the light-emitting part of this embodiment 3 may also incorporate the reflective component of embodiment 1 or the refractive component of embodiment 2.

[0119] This embodiment 3 is the same as embodiment 1 except for the above-described contents. The description of embodiment 1 can also be applied to this embodiment 3.

[0120] The embodiments 1 to 3 described above are merely illustrative. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments 1 to 3 described above, and can be appropriately modified.

[0121] In embodiments 1 to 3 described above, the present invention was applied to oral and nasal tube nutrition, but it can be applied to any other field where a tube is inserted into the human body. For example, the present invention can also be applied when inserting a catheter (tube) into an artery or vein. The liquid flowing in the tube can be any liquid such as a nutrient, medicine, contrast agent, or blood. The configuration of the connector, light-emitting part, tube, etc., can be changed depending on the field of application.

[0122] The connector located at the base of the hose is not limited to the male connector 20 shown in embodiments 1 to 3 above. The connector may also lack the female thread 24 and the outer sleeve 23. The shape of the male component 21 can be arbitrarily changed. The connector may also be a female connector.

[0123] Industrial availability

[0124] This invention can be widely used in the medical field. For example, it can be well utilized in tube nutrition, especially oral and nasal tube nutrition.

[0125] Explanation of symbols

[0126] 1. Medical tubing tip position detection system

[0127] 10 Hose

[0128] 11 flow path

[0129] 12. End face of the base of the hose

[0130] 13. End face of the hose tip

[0131] 20 connectors

[0132] 21 male components

[0133] 23 outer cylinder

[0134] 24 Female thread

[0135] Light-emitting parts: 30, 30a~30e, 230, 230a, 230b, 330, 330a~330d

[0136] 31, 31a~31e Reflecting components

[0137] 32 spherical

[0138] 32a, 32b Conical surfaces

[0139] 35 Housing

[0140] 37. Holes in the shell

[0141] Refracting components 231, 231a, 231b

[0142] 333, 334 Holes for penetrating flexible hoses

[0143] 50 Light source device

Claims

1. A system for detecting the tip position of a medical tubing, used to detect the tip position of a tubing inserted into a patient, characterized in that, have: Light source device, emitting light; A hollow flexible tube with a flow path through which liquid can pass; A connector is disposed at the base end of the aforementioned flexible tube, so that light from the aforementioned light source device can be incident on the end face of the base end of the flexible tube; and The light-emitting part is located at the front end of the aforementioned flexible tube. Light from the light source device is emitted from the light-emitting part by passing through the hose itself between the inner and outer surfaces of the hose, and the light from the light-emitting part is transmitted through the body surface.

2. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 1, wherein, The wavelength of the light emitted by the aforementioned light source device is 360nm to 3000nm.

3. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connector described above includes a cylindrical male component for insertion of the hose, an outer cylinder surrounding the male component, and a female thread formed on the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder opposite to the male component.

4. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 3, wherein, The end face of the base of the aforementioned hose is exposed at the opening at the front end of the aforementioned male component.

5. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The light-emitting part includes a reflective component that reflects the light emitted from the hose.

6. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 5, wherein, The aforementioned reflective component has a spherical or conical surface on the side facing the end face of the front end of the aforementioned hose.

7. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 5 or 6, wherein, The aforementioned reflective component is made of titanium.

8. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 5, wherein, The aforementioned reflective component is disposed in direct contact with the aforementioned flexible hose.

9. The medical tubing tip position detection system as described in claim 8, wherein, The aforementioned reflective component is a metal vapor-deposited layer.

10. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The light-emitting part includes a refractive component that refracts light emitted from the aforementioned flexible tube.

11. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The light-emitting part includes the front end of the hose formed in such a way that light passing through the hose is refracted and emitted.

12. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The light-emitting part includes a hole penetrating the hose or a recess provided on the inner or outer surface of the hose.

13. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1-4 and 8-11, wherein, A light-proof layer is provided on the outer surface of the aforementioned flexible tube to prevent light passing through the tube from escaping from the outer surface of the tube. In the aforementioned light-emitting part, the aforementioned light-leakage prevention layer is removed.

14. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The aforementioned light-emitting part has a housing. The aforementioned housing is provided with a hole that allows the liquid that has passed through the aforementioned hose to flow to the outside.

15. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The aforementioned light-emitting part has a light-transmitting housing.

16. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The surface roughness Ra of the outer surface of the aforementioned hose is less than 1.2 μm.

17. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The outer surface of the aforementioned hose is covered with a covering material having a refractive index lower than that of the hose.

18. The medical tubing tip position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, It further includes a core or optical fiber that can be inserted into or removed from the flow path of the aforementioned flexible tube.

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