Local targeting photodynamic therapy device for treating cancer and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a local targeting photodynamic therapy device for treating cancer. In more detail, an endoscope is disposed at the center of the end of a probe for photodynamic therapy, and a plurality of optical fibers are disposed along the edge to irradiate a plurality of lights to a lesion site, wherein the plurality of optical fibers of the probe receive light from independent light sources to independently perform light irradiation. The present invention is a device for minimizing damage to unnecessary normal tissue by adjusting the light irradiation area, i.e., each independent light source determines a light irradiation area including a lesion site in a real-time image provided by an endoscope disposed at the end of the probe, and only causes the independent light source that irradiates the determined light irradiation area to emit light, thereby achieving local light irradiation, etc. The local targeting photodynamic therapy device of the present invention can treat a variety of cancers or tumors, including cervical cancer, female cancers (endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer), skin cancer, brain cancer, etc., which are small and can be treated locally.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a localized targeted photodynamic therapy device and its control method for treating cancer. More specifically, an endoscope is disposed at the center of the end of a probe used for photodynamic therapy, and multiple optical fibers are arranged along the edge to irradiate multiple light sources onto the lesion site. Each of the multiple optical fibers of the probe receives light from an independent light source for independent irradiation. Furthermore, the invention relates to a device and its control method for minimizing unnecessary damage to normal tissue by adjusting the irradiation area: each independent light source determines an irradiation area including the lesion site in an image provided in real time by the endoscope disposed at the end of the probe, and only the independent light source irradiating the determined irradiation area emits light, thereby achieving localized irradiation. Therefore, the localized targeted photodynamic therapy device and its control method of this invention can treat various cancers or tumors, including cervical cancer, female cancers (endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer), skin cancer, and brain cancer, where the lesion site is small and can be treated locally. Background Technology

[0002] Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization's cancer statistics in 2012, more than 500,000 cases of cancer have been diagnosed worldwide, and about 50% of these patients die.

[0003] Compared to other cancers, cervical cancer undergoes a longer precancerous change process, making it a curable disease if detected early. Furthermore, since cervical cancer can be identified with simpler tests than stomach, lung, colorectal, or thyroid cancer, early detection and aggressive treatment of precancerous lesions are particularly important.

[0004] Currently, there are no drugs for treating precancerous cervical lesions. The only treatment is surgical removal, which includes loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), cervical conization, laser excision, and hysterectomy.

[0005] However, this surgical treatment causes social problems such as premature birth, miscarriage, infertility, and consequently, a decline in fertility rates. Furthermore, there is a risk of recurrence if the surgery is incomplete. Additionally, although the likelihood is low, there is a risk of premature birth leading to cerebral palsy, retinal disease, or premature lung maturity.

[0006] As stated above, given the rapidly increasing incidence of cervical precancerous lesions in young people and the resulting low birth rate caused by existing conization procedures leading to serious pregnancy-related complications, there is an urgent need to develop safe and effective new treatment methods.

[0007] In recent years, photodynamic therapy (PDT), which utilizes lasers for treatment, has emerged. It selectively targets only necessary sites, destroying lesions, including cancer cells or precancerous lesions, to achieve therapeutic effects. Specifically, PDT uses a combined chemical reaction involving abundant oxygen in the body, externally supplied light (laser), and a photosensitizer (a light-sensitive substance) to generate singlet oxygen or free radicals, which treat inflammation or destroy cancer cells at various lesion sites. Currently, it is attracting considerable attention as a treatment option to address pregnancy-related problems caused by extensive surgical excisions.

[0008] International Publication No. WO 2009 / 095912 A1 (published on August 6, 2009) discloses the following common photodynamic therapy method: using an endoscopic catheter to inject a photosensitizer to selectively accumulate only in cancer cells or tumors, and destroying the lesion site of the cervix by irradiation with light.

[0009] Korean Patent Publication No. 2002-0060020 (published on July 16, 2002) discloses a photodynamic therapy and diagnostic method using two or more laser diodes as light sources. This invention also focuses light emitted from multiple laser diodes into one point and outputs it via an optical fiber to target tissue, thereby achieving treatment.

[0010] Most photodynamic therapy (PDT) devices, including those in the existing literature mentioned above, provide methods for converging multiple light sources to one point and irradiating light through a single outlet, or for irradiating directly from multiple light sources.

[0011] One approach is to use a single outlet to emit focused light, which can increase light intensity and improve treatment efficacy. However, this method can also cause skin damage because it irradiates tissue near the lesion. Furthermore, methods can be used to divide the received light source into multiple portions for irradiation (Korean Patent No. 10-1500620), or to use multiple light irradiation sections protruding from the endoscope and placing multiple light sources on the protruding light irradiation sections to achieve independent light irradiation from each source (Korean Patent No. 10-1670401). However, these methods also irradiate a wide area, including the lesion.

[0012] Therefore, there is an urgent need for devices that can achieve local treatment when the tumor is locally located within the cervical epithelium (e.g., in the treatment of early cervical cancer), while minimizing damage to adjacent normal tissues and concentrating light on the lesion site. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0014] The present invention, which addresses the problems of the prior art, provides a localized photodynamic therapy device for treating cancer. The device allows for localized treatment by selecting a light-irradiation area including the lesion site from an image provided in real-time via an endoscope and irradiating only the selected area to minimize damage to normal tissue adjacent to the lesion site.

[0015] means for solving problems

[0016] The present invention, for addressing the aforementioned problems, provides a localized targeted photodynamic therapy device for treating cancer, comprising: a light supply device comprising a light source, a focusing section, and optical fibers, wherein the focusing section is arranged corresponding to the light source and is used to converge (focus) light irradiated from the light source; the optical fibers are connected to the focusing section to receive the converged light and emit the light from their other end; an optical cable extending the optical fibers to the outside of the light supply device; a probe connected to the optical cable to emit the converged light and to receive images of the interior of the human body; an image supply device including an image sensor section that receives and visualizes images input from the probe via a light rod; a display for receiving and displaying image data visualized in the image supply device; an input device for receiving input selection information; and a control device that processes the image data of the image supply device, such that the image data includes the input values ​​of the input device, and controls the light supply device and the signal transmission and power supply of each device.

[0017] Furthermore, the aforementioned light supply device comprises a light source, multiple focusing sections, and optical fibers. The light source has multiple independent light sources capable of independently switching the light on and off and adjusting the light intensity; the multiple focusing sections are arranged corresponding to the multiple independent light sources of the light source, respectively, for converging light irradiated from each independent light source; the optical fibers are independently connected to the multiple focusing sections to receive the converged light and emit light from their other ends; the optical cable extends to the outside of the light supply device by bundling multiple optical fibers together. The probe may consist of a body, an insertion tube, and a lens. The body is connected to the optical cable and fixed by external equipment or a surgical personnel. The insertion tube has a rod-like structure protruding from the front end of the body and capable of being inserted into the human body, and has a light-emitting surface at its end that emits light converged by the multiple optical fibers. The lens is disposed on the light-emitting surface of the insertion tube to receive the image in front.

[0018] Furthermore, another embodiment of the aforementioned light supply device is characterized by comprising a light source, one or more focusing units, incident optical fibers, an optical switch, and multiple emitting optical fibers. The light source is capable of switching light on and off and adjusting intensity. The one or more focusing units are arranged in a manner corresponding to the light source to focus light irradiated from the light source. The incident optical fibers are independently connected to each focusing unit to receive the focused light and emit light from their other ends. The optical switch receives light from the incident optical fibers and splits it into multiple beams, and independently adjusts the split beams. The multiple emitting optical fibers receive light emitted from the optical switch and emit light from their other ends. The optical cable extends to the outside of the light supply device by bundling multiple optical fibers together.

[0019] In the light source body of the aforementioned light supply device, multiple independent light sources are equally spaced on the support body. These independent light sources can be arranged in a grid or triangular pattern, or in a concentric circle pattern of multiple circles.

[0020] Furthermore, the aforementioned independent light source can be any one or two of laser diodes (LD), injection laser diodes (ILD), and light-emitting diodes (LED).

[0021] Furthermore, in the focusing section of the aforementioned light supply device, light is focused at the end of the optical fiber by forming the inner surface as a reflective surface, or by using a focusing lens to focus light at the end of the optical fiber.

[0022] Furthermore, the lens of the aforementioned probe can be an endoscope.

[0023] Furthermore, the cancer to be treated in this invention is a cancer or tumor that is small in size and can be treated locally.

[0024] Next, the aforementioned control device includes: an image processing module that receives images in the lit state and processes them in an image sensor unit; a region of interest selection module that outputs the image data processed from the lit state image to a display, selects a suspected region of interest through an input device, and applies it to the image data; a target region setting module that sets the region of interest as the target region to be illuminated; a light illumination region setting module that confirms the light illumination region of an independent light source through the light-emitting surface of the probe; and a local light illumination module that selects an independent light source to illuminate the set target region and supplies power to emit light.

[0025] The aforementioned imaging module also performs the process of receiving fluorescence images in low-light conditions and imaging them on the image sensor. It also includes a fluorescence region setting module, which automatically sets fluorescence regions with a set brightness or higher in the image data from the low-light image. The target region setting module allows images with the aforementioned region of interest and fluorescence regions applied to intersect to set the intersection region as the target region.

[0026] Furthermore, the aforementioned local light illumination module may be equipped with an independent light source, which supplies power based on whether the center of the light illumination area of ​​the independent light source is included in the target area.

[0027] Furthermore, the aforementioned local illumination module calculates the minimum illumination area covering the entire target region, and supplies power to the independent light source based on whether or not the calculated illumination area is illuminated.

[0028] Furthermore, the aforementioned control device may also include a light output adjustment module for adjusting the output intensity of an independent light source that has been determined to be turned on or off.

[0029] Furthermore, the aforementioned light output adjustment module is used to increase the output intensity of independent light sources whose light illumination area includes the target area by 50-100% and decrease the output intensity of independent light sources whose light illumination area includes the target area by less than 50%, thereby allowing differential light output intensity to be applied based on the degree of overlap between the light illumination area of ​​the independent light source and the target area.

[0030] The effects of the invention

[0031] Based on the above solution, the local targeted photodynamic therapy device for treating cancer of the present invention uses images provided in real time by an endoscope set on the probe to select a light irradiation area including the lesion site in the obtained images, and irradiates only the selected area to achieve photodynamic therapy in a way that minimizes damage to normal tissue.

[0032] In particular, multiple optical fibers are configured in the probe to enable localized light irradiation. Each optical fiber is irradiated by receiving an independent light source that can be controlled independently. The irradiation area can be reduced by turning off the independent light source that irradiates normal tissue other than the selected area.

[0033] Therefore, devices can be provided that enable targeted local treatment, not only for early-stage cervical cancer, but also for various cancers or tumors such as representative female cancers (endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer), skin cancer, and brain cancer, where the lesions are small and can be treated locally. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram illustrating a localized targeted photodynamic therapy device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a light supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figures 3a to 3c This is a top view showing various arrangements of light sources with independent light sources according to the present invention.

[0037] Figure 4a and Figure 4b This is a diagram illustrating the operational state of the light-concentrating part according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figures 4c to 4e This is a top view showing another embodiment of the light supply device according to the present invention.

[0039] Figure 5a and Figure 5b This is a top view showing the light-emitting surface of the probe used as the lens of an endoscope.

[0040] Figure 6a and Figure 6b This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the control device according to the present invention.

[0041] Figure 7a and Figure 7b It is a schematic diagram showing the lesion sites and selected areas of interest in the cervical image data.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the fluorescence image data of the cervix and the selected fluorescence area.

[0043] Figure 9a and Figure 9b It shows two image data points: the region of interest and the fluorescent region, and a schematic diagram of the target region combined with their settings.

[0044] Figure 10a This diagram illustrates how, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the light illumination area of ​​each independent light source is matched with the target area.

[0045] Figure 10b This is an image showing an embodiment of the present invention where only an independent light source illuminates the target area.

[0046] Figure 10c This is a schematic diagram illustrating selective light emission based on the center position of the light-irradiated area of ​​an independent light source according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 11a This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a control device including a light output adjustment module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 11b This is a schematic diagram illustrating the setting state of the output intensity of an independent light source based on the relationship between an independent light source and a target area according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention can be modified in various ways and can have various forms; several specific embodiments will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings and used to describe the invention in detail herein. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed, and it should be understood that it covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that include the spirit and scope of the invention. In illustrating the various drawings, similar structural elements are referred to using similar reference numerals. In the drawings, for clarity, the dimensions of the structures shown are enlarged or reduced relative to the actual dimensions.

[0050] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context, singular expressions include plural expressions. It should be understood that terms such as “comprising,” “possessing,” or “having” in this invention are intended to indicate the presence of features, numbers, steps, actions, structural elements, or combinations thereof described in the specification, without precluding the presence or additional possibilities of one or more features or numbers, steps, actions, structural elements, or combinations thereof.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification, including technical or scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms that are commonly used and defined in advance by a dictionary shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant technical context, and shall not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined in this application.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram illustrating a localized targeted photodynamic therapy device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] As described above, the local targeted photodynamic therapy device 10 according to the present invention includes a light supply device 20, an optical cable 30 for transmitting the generated light, a probe 40 for irradiating the transmitted light and receiving an image in front, an image supply device 50 for image processing of the image received from the probe, a display 60 for displaying the image, an input device 70 for receiving selection information, and a control device 80 for controlling various signals.

[0054] As shown in the figure, the above-mentioned local targeted photodynamic therapy device 10 can be configured in a separate manner and connected to each other through connection sockets, or it can be provided in a manner in which some structures are combined into one unit, and it can be installed on a mobile stage for easy movement.

[0055] Reference Figure 2 The aforementioned light supply device 20 includes a light source body 21 with a plurality of independent light sources 22 arranged therein, a light-concentrating part 23 for receiving and converging light irradiated from the aforementioned light source body, and an optical fiber 24 for transmitting light converged in the aforementioned light-concentrating part, which is connected to an optical cable 30 or a probe 40.

[0056] First, the aforementioned light source 21 is a device in which multiple independent light sources 22 are mounted on a substrate, and each light source is supplied through independent control. The aforementioned light source can be provided in a manner where multiple independent light sources are mounted on a single substrate, or in a manner where two or more substrates with multiple independent light sources mounted on them are assembled.

[0057] The aforementioned light source 21 is formed by arranging multiple independent light sources at predetermined intervals on a substrate. The arrangement of these independent light sources 22 can achieve light illumination in the following manner: Figure 3a As shown, they are arranged in a grid pattern on a circular substrate; or as... Figure 3b As shown, they are arranged in a continuous triangular pattern on a circular substrate; or as... Figure 3c As shown, multiple circles of different diameters are arranged in a concentric circle arrangement.

[0058] The number of independent light sources 22 mentioned above corresponds to the number of optical fibers exposed on the light-emitting surface of the probe end, which will be described later. If the number of optical fibers 24 is increased by increasing the area of ​​the light-emitting surface 421, independent light illumination can also be achieved by increasing the arrangement of the corresponding independent light sources 22.

[0059] The aforementioned independent light source 22 may be any one or a combination of two or more of laser diodes (LD), injection laser diodes (ILD), and light-emitting diodes (LED).

[0060] Furthermore, each independent light source 22 is connected to receive power independently, and each power supply line is equipped with a control unit controlled by the control device 80, so that each independent light source can be independently turned on / off, and the intensity of the independent light source can also be independently controlled by the control device.

[0061] Furthermore, one of the multiple independent light sources 22 can illuminate with visible light to obtain an image of the human body. Additionally, one of the multiple independent light sources 22 can illuminate light in a diffused manner to confirm the location of photosensitizer concentration in the skin. At this time, skin irritation can be minimized by reducing light output, while the aforementioned fluorescence visualization of the skin can be easily achieved. The independent light source providing the above functionality can be configured in the central part of the light source body or offset to one side, thereby providing the aforementioned functionality.

[0062] Furthermore, in the functional independent light source, the independent light source illuminating visible light can be used as an endoscope light source. Light can be received from the light source, and the input internal human image can be separated and transmitted to the image supply device. Of course, the light source illuminating visible light can be provided by the endoscope line itself, rather than by the light source itself, by separating the endoscope line separately.

[0063] Next, multiple light-concentrating sections 23 are arranged near the aforementioned light source 21. The aforementioned light-concentrating sections 23 receive large-area light irradiated from the independent light source 22, focus it to a point, and then emit light. Each independent light source 22 is provided with a corresponding light-concentrating section 23, so that independent light irradiation through the optical fiber 24 is achieved on the light-emitting surface 421 of the probe 40.

[0064] The aforementioned focusing section 23 can be divided into a focusing method based on the focusing lens 232 and a focusing method based on the reflecting surface 231. Figure 4a This is a structural diagram of a light-gathering section based on the converging shape of the condenser lens 232. As shown, the condenser lens 232 is formed in the direction of the independent light source 22, so that light input horizontally from the independent light source is refracted by the condenser lens 232 and converged to a point. The end of the optical fiber 24 is arranged at the convergence point. After the large area light from the independent light source is converged into a point shape, it enters the optical fiber cross section, thereby causing the light to move along the optical fiber.

[0065] Furthermore, in Figure 4bIn the process, the diameter of the inner surface of the light-concentrating part 23 is gradually reduced and formed into a reflective surface 231. Light input horizontally from the independent light source 22 is refracted towards the center along the reflective surface 231 on the inner side of the light-concentrating part and converges to a point. The light that converges to a point enters one end of the optical fiber 24, thereby causing the light to move along the optical fiber.

[0066] Therefore, in the above-mentioned focusing part 23, one end is arranged close to the independent light source 22, and the other end is provided in a form that is combined with the end of the optical fiber 24, so that the light emitted from the independent light source 22 in a large area is concentrated to a point and transmitted to the optical fiber 24. By independently controlling the independent light source, the light irradiated from the probe to the skin area can be controlled in optical fiber units, thereby minimizing the area irradiated to normal tissue.

[0067] Finally, in the aforementioned optical fiber 24, the rear end is combined with the front end of the light-concentrating part 23 to receive concentrated light and emit light forward through the front end.

[0068] As described above, the light supply device 20, which includes a light source 21, a light-concentrating part 23, and an optical fiber 24, extends to the outside via an optical cable 30.

[0069] The aforementioned optical cable 30 extends to the outside of the optical fiber device by bundling multiple optical fibers connected to the focusing section into a single bundle. The multiple optical fibers are bundled inside the light supply device 20 and exposed to the outside of the light supply device through the optical cable 30 to achieve extension.

[0070] This type of optical cable can be connected at one point by partially branching or merging with another cable as needed to transmit various signals or image data, and its length can also be extended by installing extension cables through connectors.

[0071] The aforementioned converging or branching cables may be cables connected to an image supply device, typically an endoscope.

[0072] In another embodiment of the light supply device of the present invention, an incident light can be split into multiple outgoing light by setting an optical switch in the optical cable used to transmit light converged by the focusing section.

[0073] like Figure 4cAs shown, a light supply device 20a according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises a light source 21, a plurality of focusing sections 23, an incident light fiber 24a, an optical switch 25, and a plurality of emitting light fibers 24b. The light source 21 enables switching the light on and off and intensity adjustment; the plurality of focusing sections 23 are arranged corresponding to the light source respectively, for focusing light irradiated from each light source; the incident light fiber 24a is connected to the focusing section to receive the focused light and emits light from its other end; the optical switch 25 receives light from the incident light fiber and emits light in a manner that splits it into multiple beams, and the optical switch 25 can independently control the split light; the plurality of emitting light fibers 24b receive light emitted from the optical switch and emit light from their other ends. The plurality of emitting light fibers are bundled together to form an optical cable, which extends to the outside and connects to a probe.

[0074] The aforementioned optical switch can function as an independent light source in the previous embodiments, meaning that the light from any of the split beams can be controlled by the optical switch to achieve the same effect as independent light emission control of an independent light source. Furthermore, in addition to the four beams shown, the optical switch can split the light into various quantities as needed.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 4d As shown, in the light supply device 20b, a plurality of light-concentrating parts 23 are arranged in the light source body 21 formed by a light source, and an optical switch 25 is provided in the optical fiber 24a connected to each light-concentrating part, so that the light is split by means of the plurality of optical fibers 24b.

[0076] And, as Figure 4e As shown, in the light supply device 20c, multiple independent light sources 22 can be set up to serve as light source bodies 21. Multiple light-concentrating parts 23 are arranged in each independent light source. Optical fibers 24a connected to each light-concentrating part are connected to optical switches 25. The light split by the optical switch is transmitted through multiple optical fibers 24b.

[0077] In the following embodiments of the present invention, the case in which optical fibers are controlled separately by controlling independent light sources is taken as an example. However, the form in which an optical switch is installed and the control function of an independent light source is provided by the optical switch is also within the scope of the present invention.

[0078] On the other hand, the aforementioned optical cable can be divided into a rear end serving as the light-inlet side and a front end serving as the light-outlet side, with a probe 40 provided at the front end serving as the light-outlet side. The probe 40 consists of a body part 41, an insertion tube part 42 protruding from the front end of the body part for insertion into the human body, and a lens part 43 provided at the front end of the insertion tube part for receiving images of the inside of the human body.

[0079] The aforementioned body part 41 is provided in such a way that it includes and fixes the optical cable internally, so that it can be gripped by the user through an enlarged cross-section, or it can be combined with other support members or devices by forming a fixing unit.

[0080] The aforementioned insertion tube 42 is a portion that protrudes forward from the front end of the main body, and is configured to be close to the skin to be examined or treated after being inserted into the human body. Therefore, preferably, the insertion tube is formed of the same shape or material as the endoscope tube body, which can be fixed in position.

[0081] Furthermore, a light-emitting surface 421 is formed at the end of the insertion tube 42. The light-emitting surface 421 is provided with a plurality of optical fibers 24 provided by an optical cable. The light-emitting surface 421 can be configured such that the end of the optical cable is directly exposed to emit light, or it can be configured such that the optical fibers are spaced apart by a predetermined interval using an additional support member. To prevent foreign objects from entering, the light-emitting surface can be sealed with a transparent cover. In the case of an endoscope, only the portion corresponding to the endoscope can be opened, thereby allowing the internal endoscope device to extend.

[0082] If the end of the insertion tube is formed into a light-emitting surface with a support member, it can be used with... Figure 3a and Figure 3b The light-emitting surface is formed by arranging optical fibers in the same shape as the light source. Of course, the independent light sources of the light source can be configured in various shapes to achieve light focusing based on independent control. The optical fibers used to irradiate the light emitting surface of the insertion tube can be arranged inside the circular light emitting surface at predetermined intervals, so that light can be irradiated according to the shape of the target area that is the area to be treated.

[0083] A lens section 43 is also provided at the center or on either side of the aforementioned insertion tube section 42 for receiving images of light reflected from inside the human body. Furthermore, a light irradiation section for emitting visible light (not a therapeutic wavelength) is provided near the lens section to provide light irradiation to the lens section by reflecting light. The light irradiation section can be provided by any one of a plurality of optical fibers, and an independent light source corresponding to that optical fiber can be configured to irradiate visible light.

[0084] Furthermore, the aforementioned lens section 43 can be an endoscope. The endoscope can be in various forms, such as having only a lens section, having an extension opening on one side for extending additional surgical instruments, or also having a gas outlet. The drive unit for operating the endoscope is inserted into the probe body section, thereby enabling precise operation of the endoscope.

[0085] Furthermore, the optical fibers inside the aforementioned probe 40 are directly inserted into the optical cable in a wiring configuration; or multiple optical fibers corresponding to the optical cable are pre-configured inside the probe, and the optical cable is connected at the rear end of the probe, thereby enabling the optical fibers of the optical cable to be connected to the optical fibers inside the probe.

[0086] Figure 5a and Figure 5b The light-emitting surface 421 of the lens section is shown, where the endoscope 43a is used as the probe of the lens section. (Example) Figure 5a As shown, the endoscope 43a can be positioned at the center of the light-emitting surface of the probe to acquire an image. However, if the endoscope is positioned in the center, the independent optical fiber 24 cannot be positioned in the area corresponding to the endoscope placement area, making it difficult to perform independent light illumination control in the central part of the light illumination area. Therefore, preferably, as shown... Figure 5b As shown, the endoscope 43a is biased to either side of the light-emitting surface 421 of the probe to ensure a large area of ​​light illumination (the light illumination can be controlled independently).

[0087] The image input to the lens section 43 of the aforementioned probe is transmitted to the image supply device 50 and imaged. The image supply device 50 includes an image sensor section for digitizing the image of the reflected light received from the lens section into image data through a program.

[0088] The aforementioned image supply device 50 is connected to the display 60 to display image data. The display includes all image output devices that can typically output images.

[0089] In addition, an input device 70 is provided, which is connected to the aforementioned display 60. This input device serves as a means of magnifying a portion of the output image or a portion marked in the image. Typically, such an input device includes a keyboard, a mouse, and may also include a touchscreen integrated with the display or a communication device (smartphone, laptop computer) that can be communicatively connected.

[0090] The aforementioned control device 80 processes the image data from the image supply device to include the input values ​​from the input device, and controls the independent light source of the light supply device and the signal transmission and power supply of each device. Therefore, the control device is interconnected with the light supply device, probe, image supply device, display, and input device, analyzing the signals received from these structures to achieve appropriate equipment operation.

[0091] Figure 6a This is a block diagram showing a representative structure of the aforementioned control device.

[0092] As described above, the control device 80 of the present invention comprises an image processing module 81, a region of interest selection module 82, a target region setting module 84, a light illumination region setting module 85, and a local light illumination module 86.

[0093] The representative structures within the aforementioned control device will be described with a focus on the execution process, and the cervix will be used as the site of treatment.

[0094] First, the following process is performed: under bright and dark conditions, the image module 81 receives images or fluorescent images, and after image processing by the image sensor unit, the images are provided.

[0095] The aforementioned imaging module 81 inserts the probe into the body and into the vicinity of the cervix, which is the site to be treated. During the insertion process, power is supplied to any independent light source, preferably an independent light source that irradiates visible light, to irradiate light from the light-emitting surface at the front end of the probe. The internal image based on light irradiation received by the lens is imaged in the image sensor unit and image data is generated. The image data is then transmitted to the display for output.

[0096] Furthermore, after a certain period of time, the photosensitizer concentrates on the cancer or tumor, which can then be confirmed under dim lighting conditions.

[0097] Therefore, after acquiring an internal image using visible light, the imaging module creates a dark state to separately receive a fluorescent image. This fluorescent image can also be received by the lens unit, imaged by the image sensor unit, and fluorescent image data generated. Then, the fluorescent image data is transmitted to the display for output.

[0098] The aforementioned region of interest selection module outputs optical image data acquired by visible light to the display, allowing users to select a region of interest suspected of being cancer or a tumor via a connected input device.

[0099] The focus area selection module can select a portion of the display screen based on signals input through the input device, magnify the selected area, and output it. The magnified output image can be processed using known image editing programs to ensure that the image is not damaged.

[0100] exist Figure 7a In the image 90 of the cervix, the lesion site 92 can be identified. For example... Figure 7b As shown, the surgeon uses a mouse, direct touch, or other selection methods to select the area of ​​interest 93. At this point, the area can be further zoomed in to make selection easier. The selected information is not only displayed on the monitor, but the selected area of ​​interest 93 is also combined with and stored with the image data.

[0101] At this time, as Figure 6bAs shown, the steps based on the fluorescence region setting module 83 can also be performed. That is, when the fluorescence image is further received by the imaging module 81, the fluorescence image data acquired in the dark is automatically set as the fluorescence region to be displayed using the image editing program.

[0102] As an example of the method for selecting the aforementioned fluorescent region, a fluorescent region with a set brightness or higher can be selected. The fluorescent image data is also output to a display for confirmation. The brightness setting can be gradually changed between low and high brightness via an input device, and the changes in the automatically selected fluorescent region based on the brightness setting can be confirmed. Finally, any fluorescent region can be selected from the changing fluorescent regions. When the automatically selected fluorescent region is displayed, the selection is made via an input device using a mouse, direct touch, or other selection methods to select the corresponding region as a fluorescent region. The selection information is not only displayed on the display, but the selected fluorescent region is also stored in conjunction with the image data.

[0103] Figure 8 This is fluorescence image data under dim lighting conditions. In most cases, after a certain period of time, the photosensitizer concentrates only at the lesion site 92, while most of it is removed in other areas. However, as shown in the figure, occasionally a small amount of photosensitizer may remain outside the lesion site. The operator can further determine whether it is a lesion site by comparing the image data using visible light. It is determined that the error in the above fluorescence image data is due to a temporary concentration of photosensitizer caused by the sides protruding or recessed towards the lens when the three-dimensional image is displayed as a plane. Image data showing all parts of the fluorescence display, including the fluorescently displayed erroneous area, are selected as the fluorescent region 94.

[0104] When only the region of interest is selected through the region of interest selection module, the target region setting module 84 sets the region of interest 93 itself as the target region.

[0105] Furthermore, when a fluorescence region is additionally set via the fluorescence region setting module 83, the target region setting module 84 intersects the two image data with the applied interest region 93 and fluorescence region 94, and sets the intersection region as the target region 95 for performing light illumination.

[0106] Since the images in both the on-light and off-light states are acquired at approximately the same time, their ratios and the location of the cervix can be determined to be roughly the same. However, in the selection of the region of interest and the fluorescent region, since the ratio changes due to image magnification, it is preferable to convert it to the same ratio using a known graphics program before setting the target region based on the intersection of the two image data.

[0107] Figure 9aThe image data showing the selected region of interest 93 and the image data showing the fluorescence region 94 are shown. Figure 9b The image shows two image data points that have been converted to the same ratio and then superimposed, with the target region 95 set by showing the area where the region of interest 93 intersects with the fluorescent region 94.

[0108] The aforementioned light irradiation area setting module 85 confirms the light irradiation area 96 of each independent light source through the light-emitting surface of the probe. That is, in the configured structure, the independent light sources are emitted sequentially to confirm which area of ​​the cervix is ​​irradiated by the light from each independent light source, thereby storing the information in a way that matches the independent light source with the irradiation area.

[0109] When the light irradiation area 96 is set, the aforementioned local light irradiation module 86 supplies power only to the independent light source that irradiates the set target area 95, thereby achieving partial light emission and performing treatment by minimizing light irradiation on normal tissue through partial light emission.

[0110] Figure 10a This diagram illustrates how the target area 95 is matched with the illumination area 96 of an independent light source. Figure 10b In this process, power is supplied only to the independent light source 96 that has a portion that overlaps with the target area 95 (even if only partially), while the other light sources are turned off to minimize damage to normal tissue.

[0111] As a method for controlling the aforementioned multiple independent light sources, power can be selectively supplied to the independent light sources based on whether the center of the light illumination area 96 of each independent light source is included within the target area 95. For example... Figure 10c As shown, a portion of the light illuminates the target area 95, but the power supply to the independent light source corresponding to the light-illuminated area 96, which is detached from the target area, is turned off. Power is only supplied to the independent light source and it is turned on when the center of the light-illuminated area 96 is included in the target area 95. This method allows the independent light source to selectively emit light. This method of determining whether to operate the independent light source based on the center of the light-illuminated area is used when the light-illuminated areas of each independent light source partially overlap. Preferably, it is used when the diameter of the light-illuminated area overlaps with that of the adjacent light-illuminated area by more than 40%. In this case, even if the center of the light-illuminated area of ​​the independent light source is used as a reference, the entire target area can be included in the entire light-illuminated area in operation.

[0112] Another method for controlling multiple independent light sources is as follows: A program calculates the area of ​​each independent light source that minimizes the total area of ​​the target region. Power is selectively supplied only to the independent light sources corresponding to the calculated illumination areas to make them emit light. This involves selecting the illumination areas of all independent light sources illuminating the target region (first selection), then filtering to find and remove the illumination areas of independent light sources that, even if removed, can still be illuminated by other illumination areas (secondary filtering). This ultimately selects the illumination areas for the target region, and the light sources are then emitted only in a manner that allows the independent light sources corresponding to the selected illumination areas to operate.

[0113] In addition to selecting multiple independent light sources corresponding to the target area while the probe is fixed, the local light irradiation module 86 can also move the locator back and forth according to the size of the target area to set the light irradiation area, and then select and operate the independent light sources. In this case, by moving the locator back and forth, multiple lights can be irradiated onto the target area at once for treatment, or the target area can be divided into multiple parts, and the locator can be moved to the divided target area for light irradiation.

[0114] On the other hand, such as Figure 11a As shown, the control device 80 may further include a light output adjustment module 87. The light output adjustment module 87 may be configured as a subordinate module to the local light illumination module.

[0115] The aforementioned light output adjustment module 87 irradiates normal tissue and tissue forming the target area with different intensities by adjusting the output intensity of each independent light source that has been determined to be on / off. This minimizes damage to normal tissue near the target area while providing strong light irradiation to cancer or tumors within the target area. The output intensity can be preset, and tiered light irradiation can be performed according to the set value.

[0116] The above-mentioned division of output intensity is based on the degree of overlap between the illumination area of ​​the independent light source and the target area. For example, if 50% to 100% of the illumination area of ​​the independent light source is included in the target area, the output intensity of the independent light source is set to high; if less than 50% of the illumination area of ​​the independent light source is included in the target area, the output intensity of the independent light source is set to low, and thus illumination is performed.

[0117] Reference Figure 11bThe output intensity of the light irradiation area 96 (st-on) of the independent light source that includes the entire target area 95 is increased. If only a portion of the target area is included, but the included area can be replaced by other light irradiation areas, the power supply of the independent light source is blocked, and the light irradiation area 96 is removed (off). If a portion of the target area is included, but the included area cannot be replaced by other light irradiation areas, the light irradiation area 96 (on) is maintained by supplying power to the independent light source, and its output intensity is adjusted to medium or low.

[0118] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with cervical cancer as an example, they can also be used for photodynamic therapy of various cancers or tumors, including other female cancers (endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer), skin cancer, and brain cancer, where the lesions are small and can be treated locally.

[0119] On the other hand, the control method of the local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to the present invention controls the power supply transmitted to multiple independent light sources by image analysis of the tissue surface, thereby determining the target area as the tissue to be treated and treating it.

[0120] Specifically, it includes: an image processing step, receiving an image in a lit state (lit state) and processing it in an image sensor unit; a region of interest selection step, outputting the image data of the lit state image to a display, selecting a suspected region of interest 93 through an input device and applying it to the image data; a target region setting step, setting the aforementioned region of interest as a target region 95 for illumination; an illumination region setting step, confirming the illumination region 96 of an independent light source through the light-emitting surface of the probe; and a local illumination step, selecting an independent light source to form illumination in the set target region and emitting light by supplying power.

[0121] In the above-described imaging step, a process is also performed where a fluorescent image is received in a dark state and imaged on the image sensor unit. Furthermore, in the imaging step, a fluorescent region 94 with a set brightness or higher is automatically set in the image data of the image formed from the image in a dark state through a fluorescence region setting step.

[0122] Furthermore, in the target region setting step, the images with the aforementioned interest region 93 and fluorescence region 94 are made to intersect, and the intersecting region is set as the target region 95.

[0123] In the above-mentioned local light illumination step, the independent light source that will supply power is set based on whether the center of the light illumination area 96 of the independent light source is included in the target area 95.

[0124] In the aforementioned localized illumination step, a minimized illumination area, encompassing 95% of the entire target region, is calculated. Power is supplied to the independent light source based on whether or not the calculated illumination area is illuminated.

[0125] It also includes a light output adjustment step for adjusting the output intensity of an independent light source that has been determined to be on or off.

[0126] For the above light output adjustment steps, among the selected independent light sources, the output intensity of the independent light sources included in the target region 95 in the light irradiation area 96 is increased by 50-100%, and the output intensity of the independent light sources included in the target region 95 in the light irradiation area 96 is decreased by less than 50%. The light output intensity is applied differentially according to the degree of overlap between the light irradiation area 96 of the independent light source and the target region 95.

Claims

1. A locally targeted photodynamic therapy device for the treatment of cancer, characterized in that, The light supply device (20) is composed of a light source body (21), a light collecting portion (23) arranged in correspondence with the light source body for converging light emitted from the light source body, and an optical fiber (24) connected to the light collecting portion for receiving the converged light and emitting light from the other end portion. The optical cable (30) extends the optical fiber to the outside of the light supply device. The probe (40) is connected to the optical cable for emitting the converged light, and is used for receiving an image inside a human body. The image supply device (50) includes an image sensor portion for receiving an image input from the probe through the optical cable and for image processing to obtain image data. The display (60) is used for receiving the image data image processed by the image supply device and for displaying. The input device (70) is used for receiving input selection information. The control device (80) is used for processing the image data of the image supply device so that the image data includes the input value of the input device, and for controlling the light supply device and the signal transmission and power supply of each device. The light source body (21) has a plurality of independent light sources (22) capable of independently realizing the turning on / off and intensity adjustment of light. The plurality of light collecting portions (23) are arranged in correspondence with the plurality of independent light sources (22) of the light source body respectively for converging light emitted from each independent light source. The plurality of optical fibers (24) are independently connected to the plurality of light collecting portions respectively for receiving the converged light and emitting light from the other end portion. The control device (80) includes: An image processing module (81) for receiving an image in a light-on state and image processing the image in the image sensor portion to obtain image data, and for receiving a fluorescent image in a light-off state and image processing the fluorescent image in the image sensor portion to obtain image data. A region of interest selection module (82) for outputting the image data obtained by image processing the image in the light-on state to the display, selecting a suspicious region of interest (93) through the input device, and applying the region of interest to the image data. A fluorescent region setting module (83) for automatically setting a fluorescent region (94) above a set brightness in the image data obtained by image processing the fluorescent image in the light-off state. A target region setting module (84) for crossing the image to which the region of interest (93) and the fluorescent region (94) have been applied, and setting the crossed region as a target region (95) to which light is to be emitted. The light source body (21) has a plurality of independent light sources (22) capable of independently realizing the turning on / off and intensity adjustment of light. The plurality of light collecting portions (23) are arranged in correspondence with the plurality of independent light sources (22) of the light source body respectively for converging light emitted from each independent light source. The plurality of optical fibers (24) are independently connected to the plurality of light collecting portions respectively for receiving the converged light and emitting light from the other end portion. The control device (80) includes: An image processing module (81) for receiving an image in a light-on state and image processing the image in the image sensor portion to obtain image data, and for receiving a fluorescent image in a light-off state and image processing the fluorescent image in the image sensor portion to obtain image data. A region of interest selection module (82) for outputting the image data obtained by image processing the image in the light-on state to the display, selecting a suspicious region of interest (93) through the input device, and applying the region of interest to the image data. A fluorescent region setting module (83) for automatically setting a fluorescent region (94) above a set brightness in the image data obtained by image processing the fluorescent image in the light-off state. A target region setting module (84) for crossing the image to which the region of interest (93) and the fluorescent region (94) have been applied, and setting the crossed region as a target region (95) to which light is to be emitted. The light irradiation area setting module (85) is configured to form a light irradiation area (96) from the light emitting surface of the probe, the light irradiation area being formed by the respective light irradiation area of each independent light source partially overlapping with the respective light irradiation area of other independent light sources; and to confirm the respective light irradiation area of each independent light source by making the independent light sources emit light in sequence. The local light irradiation module (86) is configured to supply power to only the independent light source selected to irradiate the target area to emit light among the plurality of independent light sources.

2. The local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to claim 1, wherein The light supply device (20) is composed of the light source body (21), a plurality of the light collecting portions (23), a plurality of the light-in fibers (24a), a plurality of the light switches (25), and a plurality of the light-out fibers (24b), the plurality of the light-in fibers (24a) are independently connected to each of the light collecting portions to receive the converging light and emit light from the other end, each of the light switches (25) receives light from the light-in fibers and splits the light into a plurality of lights, and the light switches (25) independently control the plurality of lights obtained by splitting, and the plurality of the light-out fibers (24b) receive the light emitted from the light switches and emit light from the other end.

3. The local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to claim 1, wherein In the light collecting portion (23) of the light supply device (20), the light is collected at the end of the optical fiber in such a way that the inner surface is formed as a reflecting surface (231), or the light is collected at the end of the optical fiber by means of a light collecting lens (232).

4. The local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to claim 1, wherein The cancer to be treated is a cancer that can be treated locally due to the small size of the lesion.

5. The local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to claim 1, wherein In the light source body (21) of the light supply device (20), the plurality of independent light sources (22) are arranged at equal intervals on the support body, the independent light sources (22) are arranged in a lattice or triangular arrangement, or arranged in a concentric circular arrangement of a plurality of concentric circles.

6. The local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to claim 5, wherein The independent light source (22) is any one or two selected from a laser diode, an injection laser diode, and a light emitting diode.

7. The local targeted photodynamic therapy device according to claim 1, wherein The probe (40) is composed of a body portion (41), an insertion tube portion (42), and a lens portion (43), the body portion (41) is connected to the optical cable and fixed by an external device or a surgical staff, the insertion tube portion (42) protrudes from the front end of the body portion to have a rod shape that can be inserted into the human body, and has a light emitting surface (421) at the end of the insertion tube portion to emit light converging through a plurality of the optical fibers, respectively, the lens portion (43) is arranged at the light emitting surface of the insertion tube portion to receive the image in front.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the lens portion (43) of the probe (40) is an endoscope.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the local light irradiation module (86) supplies power to the individual light sources based on whether the center of the light irradiation area (96) of the individual light source is included in the target area (95).

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the local light irradiation module (86) calculates a minimum value of the area of the light irradiation area including the entire target area (95), and the local light irradiation module (86) supplies power to the individual light sources based on whether the calculated area of the light irradiation area is irradiated.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control device (80) further comprises a light output adjustment module (87) for adjusting the output intensity of the individual light sources that have been determined to be turned on / off.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the light output adjustment module (87) increases the output intensity of the individual light sources in which 50 to 100% of the light irradiation area (96) is included in the target area (95), and decreases the output intensity of the individual light sources in which 50% or less of the light irradiation area (96) is included in the target area (95), whereby different light output intensities are applied according to the degree of overlap of the light irradiation area (96) of the individual light sources with the target area (95). ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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