Composition analysis techniques for ultrasound ablation

Abstract

Techniques are provided for estimating a composition of a biological sample during an ablation procedure. In an example, a composition detector system can include a probe, an illumination source, and a spectrometer. In an example, the probe can extend through a working channel of a scope and can deliver mechanical, acoustic, or ultrasonic energy to tissue of a patient to ablate the tissue at a distal end of the probe. The illumination source can illuminate a portion of the tissue at the distal end of the probe, or as the portion is expelled and collected for processing. The illumination can produce a response illumination that can be received by the spectrometer. The spectrometer can analyze the response illumination and provide an estimate of a composition of the portion of the tissue.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 071,208, filed August 27, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This document relates to ablation techniques for breaking up or removing biological tissue, and more particularly, to techniques for analyzing the composition of biological tissue during an ablation procedure. BACKGROUND

[0004] Medical scopes, such as endoscopes and laparoscopes, were originally developed in the early nineteenth century and have been used to examine the inside of the body. A medical scope can include a probe having a distal end with tools and enabling the capture of optical or electronic images, and a proximal end with controls for manipulating the tools and a device for viewing the images. A shaft can transmit signals and can provide a link between the proximal and distal ends of the scope. Some medical scopes enable a user to transmit tools or treatments along a channel of the shaft, for example, to excise tissue or retrieve objects.

[0005] In the past few decades, there have been some advances in the field of endoscopy, and particularly in relation to breaking up physiological stones in the biliary tract, urinary tract, kidneys, and gallbladder. Physiological stones (sometimes referred to as calculi) in these areas can block ducts and cause significant pain to patients. Treatments can include removing or breaking up the stones. Different techniques have been developed for breaking up stones, including ultrasonic lithotripsy, pneumatic lithotripsy, electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL), and stone disintegration using green light, YAG, or holmium lasers. SUMMARY

[0006] Techniques are provided for estimating the composition of a biological sample during an ablation procedure. In an example, a composition detector system can include a probe, an illumination source, and a spectrometer. In an example, the probe can extend through a working channel of a scope and can deliver mechanical, acoustic, or ultrasonic energy to tissue of a patient to ablate the tissue at a distal end of the probe. The illumination source can illuminate a portion of the tissue at the distal end of the probe, or as the portion is expelled and collected for processing. The illumination can generate a response illumination that can be received by the spectrometer. The spectrometer can analyze the response illumination and provide an estimate of the composition of the portion of the tissue.

[0007] This section is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the application. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 An example is generally illustrated showing portions of an ablation system.

[0009] Figure 2 An example is generally illustrated showing portions of an example mechanical ablation system for in-situ composition detection.

[0010] Figure 3 An example is generally illustrated showing an example mechanical ablation system for in-situ composition detection.

[0011] Figure 4 An example is generally illustrated showing an example mechanical ablation system for in-situ composition detection.

[0012] Figures 5 to 8 An example is shown that can provide one or more optical paths of a mechanical ablation probe for use with an example ablation system. Figures 1 to 4

[0013] Figure 9 An example is shown that includes a composition detector configured to sense an ablated material in a material management system and determine composition information of the sensed ablated material.

[0014] Figure 10A and Figure 10B An example is illustrated showing how a feedback analyzer can determine a size and a density of a biological sample.

[0015] Figure 11 An example is shown showing portions of an example mechanical ablation system.

[0016] Figure 12 An example is shown showing portions of an example composition detector configured to divert an ablated material in an evacuation path of an evacuation system for composition analysis.

[0017] Figure 13 An example is generally illustrated showing a method of ablating a biological sample during an ablation procedure and analyzing the biological sample within a system for the ablation procedure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] ​Several devices have been developed that use mechanical energy to break stones into smaller fragments for easier removal from a patient's urinary system. In particular examples, ultrasonic or acoustic energy can be transmitted along a rigid shaft and delivered to a stone by contact. Many procedures use such devices in a system that also includes a medical scope to enable the shaft to access a restricted area within a patient's body. Such systems can also include a material management system to irrigate an area of interest around a stone and remove fragments of the stone as it is ablated. Users of ablation devices have recognized that knowledge of stone composition can help provide more efficient treatment. However, conventional techniques require that a portion of a stone or one of the stones be removed from a patient's body and analyzed outside of the ablation system. Such techniques can be time consuming and can have significant delays between the time a sample is removed from the system and the time the composition analysis is completed. Such delays are typically traded off against completing the procedure in a more timely but less efficient manner without the benefit of composition information. The present inventors have recognized techniques for analyzing and providing composition information about stone composition within and as the ablation process proceeds. These new techniques can include systems with in situ analysis or near in situ analysis capabilities. Such techniques can enable an operator of an ablation system to adjust an ablation treatment to match the composition of a stone as it is broken up.

[0019] Figure 1 An example of a portion of an ablation system 100 is generally shown. The system can include an ablation controller 102 and an ablation instrument 103. In certain examples, a working lumen or access port of a viewing instrument 107 can allow at least a portion of an ablation probe 104 of the ablation instrument 103 to be inserted into an internal structure or region of a patient. In certain examples, the viewing instrument can include an endoscope, laparoscope, or other medical scope. Such scopes can include one or more optical paths, optical sensors, and additional working lumens. The optical paths can be used to transmit light to a distal end of the viewing instrument, and optical sensors such as a video camera can be used to transmit image-type signals to an imaging system coupled at a proximal end of the viewing instrument.

[0020] The ablation system 100 can include a mechanical ablation controller 109, a material management system 140. The mechanical ablation controller can include a mechanical energy source, associated controls, and accessories for providing mechanical energy to the ablation instrument 103. The mechanical energy source can deliver acoustic energy at one or more acoustic energy frequencies and one or more acoustic energy amplitudes. The acoustic energy can be at both acoustic frequencies and ultrasonic frequencies. In certain examples, the mechanical energy source can include a mechanical coupling and one or more piezoelectric transducers configured to generate acoustic energy at one or more frequencies.

[0021] The material management system 130 can cooperate with the ablation instrument 103 to irrigate the distal end of the ablation instrument 103, aspirate or evacuate material from the distal end of the ablation instrument 103, or both. In some examples, the material management system 130 can be part of an endoscope system. In certain examples, the material management system 130 can include a composition detector 145 that is optionally configured to sample and analyze stone fragments captured by the material management system.

[0022] The ablation instrument 103 can include a handle 111 that can be located at the proximal end of the ablation probe 104, for example. In some examples, a second handle can be located distally when the ablation procedure is automated. The handle 111 can include one or more electrical, mechanical, optical, or other interfaces for connection to the mechanical ablation controller 109 or the material management system 140. The handle 111 can include one or more intermediate accessories such as one or more triggers, buttons, or the like for actuating the provision of mechanical energy to the ablation probe 104. The ablation probe 104 can include a tube 113 for transmitting mechanical energy from an electromechanical or other transducer at the handle 111 to the distal end of the tube 113. Such an ablation probe can be referred to as an acoustic transmission probe. The ablation probe 104 can also include an optical path 114 for transmitting an optical signal from the distal end of the tube 113 to the composition detector 145 that is optionally configured to sample and analyze stones in situ at the distal end of the ablation probe 104. In certain examples, the optical fiber of the optical path 114 can be mounted to or integrated with the tube 113. The distal end of the ablation probe 104 can be inserted toward a target site for breaking up or applying mechanical energy treatment to a stone or biological sample located near the distal end of the tube 113. In certain examples, the internal passageway of the tube 113 can provide a passageway that enables irrigation of a target region at or near the distal end of the tube 113 or aspiration or evacuation of debris or other target tissue from the patient's body. In certain examples, a gap formed within the working channel 105 but outside of the tube 113 can be used to irrigate a target region at or near the distal end of the tube 113 or aspirate or evacuate debris or other target tissue from the patient's body. In some examples, the gap formed within the working channel 105 but outside of the tube 113 can be used for complementary material management functions compared to the internal passageway of the tube 113. For example, in certain examples, the gap between the working channel 105 and the exterior of the tube 113 can be used for irrigation when the internal passageway of the tube 113 is used for aspiration, and the gap between the working channel 105 and the exterior of the tube 113 can be used for aspiration when the internal passageway of the tube 113 is used for irrigation.

[0023] Figure 2Portions of an example mechanical ablation system 200 for in situ composition detection are generally shown. As Figure 1 compared to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 systems that sense and detect the composition of target tissue as it is expelled for collection, as shown in Figures 9 to 12 . The mechanical ablation system 200 can include a viewing instrument 207, such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 206 separate from the viewing instrument 207, a mechanical ablation controller 209, an ablation probe 204, a spectrometer 208, and an optional spectral analyzer 210. The viewing scope 207 can or can not provide a second light source. The viewing instrument 207 can provide a working channel 205 for insertion of the ablation probe 204 into a target site. In certain examples, the mechanical ablation controller 209 can provide signaling and actuation for mechanically ablating a biological sample 217 located at a distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204. It should be understood that the transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy can be located at the ablation probe 204 or between the ablation probe 204 and the actual control circuitry of the mechanical ablation controller 209. Light from the first light source 206 can be transmitted to the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204 via one or more light paths 211 of the ablation probe 204. The light of the first light source 206 can illuminate the area around the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204, e.g., including a biological sample 217 such as a stone. The light of the first light source 206 can produce a response illumination that is captured by an optical sensor 212 of the viewing instrument 207. In some examples, the optical sensor 212 can be a video camera. The signal from the optical sensor 212 can be received at the spectrometer 208, and the spectrometer 208 can provide spectral information about the biological sample 217 at the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204. In certain examples, the spectral information can be displayed to a user, and the user can make basic adjustments to the ablation therapy based on the spectral information. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 210 can receive the spectral information from the spectrometer 208 and can provide more specific composition information to the user. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 210 can determine more specific composition information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 208, and can automatically modify the mechanical ablation therapy via the mechanical ablation controller 209, thereby providing closed loop control of the ablation therapy.

[0024] Figure 3An example mechanical ablation system 300 for in situ composition detection is generally shown. The mechanical ablation system 300 can include a viewing instrument 307, such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 306 separate from the viewing instrument 307, a mechanical ablation controller 309, an ablation probe 304, a spectrometer 308, and an optional spectral analyzer 309. The viewing scope 307 can or can not provide a second light source. The viewing instrument 307 can provide a working channel 305 for insertion of the ablation probe 304 into a target site. In certain examples, the mechanical ablation controller 309 can provide signaling and actuation for mechanically ablating a biological sample 217 located at a distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304. It should be understood that a transducer for converting an ablation signal into mechanical energy can be located at the ablation probe 304 or between the ablation probe 304 and the actual control circuitry of the mechanical ablation controller 309. Light from the first light source 306 can be transmitted to the distal end of the ablation probe 304 via one or more light paths 311 of the ablation probe 304. The light of the first light source 306 can illuminate an area surrounding the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304, e.g., including a biological sample 317 such as a stone. The light of the first light source 306 can produce a responsive illumination that can be captured by a second light path 312 of the ablation probe 304. Optionally, the responsive illumination can also be captured by an optical sensor 312 of the viewing instrument 307. In some examples, the optical sensor 312 can be a video camera. In certain examples, a signal from the optical sensor 312 can be received to provide a visual image for an operator of the mechanical ablation system 300.

[0025] The responsive illumination captured by the second light path 312 can be received at the spectrometer 308, and the spectrometer 308 can provide spectral information about the biological sample 317 at the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304. In certain examples, the spectral information can be displayed to a user, and the user can make basic adjustments to the ablation therapy based on the spectral information. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 310 can receive the spectral information from the spectrometer 308 and can provide more specific composition information to the user. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 310 can determine more specific composition information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 308, and can automatically modify the mechanical ablation therapy via the mechanical ablation controller 309, thereby providing closed loop control of the ablation therapy.

[0026] Figure 4An example mechanical ablation system 400 for in situ composition detection is generally shown. The mechanical ablation system 400 can include a viewing instrument 407, such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 406, a mechanical ablation controller 409, an ablation probe 404, a spectrometer 408, and an optional spectral analyzer 410. The viewing scope 407 can provide a light path 414 separate from the ablation probe 404. The viewing instrument 407 can provide a working channel 405 for insertion of the ablation probe 404 into a target site. In certain examples, the mechanical ablation controller 409 can provide signaling and actuation for mechanically ablating a biological sample 417 located at a distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. It should be understood that a transducer for converting an ablation signal into mechanical energy can be located at the ablation probe 404 or between the ablation probe 404 and the actual control circuitry of the mechanical ablation controller 409. Light from the light source 406 can be transmitted via the light path 414 of the viewing instrument 407 to the distal end 419 of the viewing instrument 407. The light of the light source 406 can illuminate an area surrounding the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404, for example including a biological sample 417 such as a calculus. The light of the light source 406 can produce a responsive illumination that can be captured by the light path 411 of the ablation probe 404. Optionally, the responsive illumination can be captured by an optical sensor 412 of the viewing instrument 407. In some examples, the optical sensor 412 can be a video camera. In certain examples, a signal from the optical sensor 412 can be received to provide a visual image for an operator of the ablation system 400.

[0027] The responsive illumination captured by the light path 411 of the ablation probe can be received at the spectrometer 408, and the spectrometer 408 can provide spectral information about the biological sample 417 at the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. In certain examples, the spectral information can be displayed to a user, and the user can make basic adjustments to the ablation therapy based on the spectral information. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 410 can receive the spectral information from the spectrometer 408 and can provide more specific composition information to the user. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 410 can determine more specific composition information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 408, and can automatically modify the mechanical ablation therapy via the mechanical ablation controller 409, thereby providing closed loop control of the ablation therapy.

[0028] In some examples, the light source 406 can include a light emitting diode (LED). In some examples, the light source 406 can include multiple LED illumination sources, and each LED illumination source can provide a different color of light than the other LED illumination sources. In certain examples, the activation of the colors of the light source 406 can be sequenced to utilize light that appears to be white light to illuminate the area around the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. However, the sequencing can be synchronized with the spectrometer 408 to reduce the noise of the spectral measurements of each narrow wavelength range associated with each color. In certain examples, the spectral measurements and determinations can be faster and with higher precision compared to a light source that provides random light from across the visible spectrum.

[0029] Figures 5 to 8 An example is shown of an ablation probe that can provide one or more optical paths for use with Figures 1 to 4 example ablation systems of Figures 5 to 8 The probe of Figures 9 to 12 The systems of

[0030] Figure 5 A distal view is shown generally of an example of a portion of an ablation probe 504 that can be used with one or more of the example systems of Figures 1 to 4 The ablation probe 504 can include a metal or other rigid tube 513 for delivering mechanical ablation energy from an electromechanical or other transducer to a biological specimen at or near the distal end of the ablation probe 504. While a flexible or semi-rigid tube can be used to guide a tortuous path to a destination, a rigid tube is more efficient at transmitting mechanical ablation energy and with less loss than a semi-rigid or flexible tube, although it is less easily maneuvered. Mechanical ablation of a biological specimen, such as a kidney stone, can include placing the distal end of the tube 513 against the target stone and mechanically vibrating or oscillating the tube 513. The tube 513 can include one or more holes 520 or passageways that extend lengthwise or longitudinally along the tube 513, such as within the sidewall of the tube 313. Figure 5Two holes 520a, 520b within the sidewall of the tube 513 are shown, however the tube 513 can include one or more additional optional holes 520. One or more optical fibers 521 can be positioned to extend within a respective one of the sidewall holes 520a, 520b. The one or more optical fibers can be used to transmit light between the end portions of the tube 513 for transmitting light to illuminate the distal end of the ablation probe 504 or for transmitting responsive illumination to the proximal end of the probe 504.

[0031] In addition to providing a delivery mechanism for delivering mechanical energy to a target, the tube 513 can provide a central or other longitudinal lumen for irrigation or evacuation of the area around the distal end of the probe 504. More than one set or bundle of optical fibers 520c can extend longitudinally via the wall of the tube 513, for example at different circumferential or peripheral locations or offset around the outer rim defined by the tube by, for example, at least 5 degrees or more. In certain examples, the tube 513 can be hollow to define an internal passageway that can be used to irrigate or evacuate or aspirate material around the distal end of the probe 504.

[0032] Figure 6 A distal end view of an example of a portion of an ablation probe 604 that can be used with one or more of the example systems Figures 1 to 4 is shown. The ablation probe 604 can include a metallic or other rigid tube 613 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to a blockage or other target located at or near the distal end of the ablation probe 604. Figure 6 One or more optical fibers 621 can extend within or along the tube 613, for example can be used to apply laser energy to the blockage. The optical fibers 621 can be held against the outer surface of the tube 613 by a layer of material, a covering material or adhesive material 622, for example a heat shrink or other shrink wrap material. The gap between the covering material and the outer surface of the tube 613, for example the gap near the optical fibers 621, can be filled with a surgical grade silicone or other sealant 622. More than one set or bundle of optical fibers 621 can extend longitudinally along the exterior of the tube 613, for example at different circumferential or peripheral locations or offset around the exterior of the tube by, for example, at least 5 degrees or more. In certain examples, the tube 613 can be hollow to define an internal passageway that can also be used to irrigate or evacuate or aspirate material around the distal end of the probe 604, for example.

[0033] Figure 7 A distal end view of an example of a portion of an ablation probe 604 that can be used with one or more of the example systems Figures 1 to 4A distal view of an example of a portion of an ablation probe 704 for use with one or more of the example systems. The ablation probe 704 can include a metallic or otherwise rigid tube 713 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to an occlusion or other target. One or more optical fibers 721 can extend along the tube 713, for example, can be used to apply laser energy to an occlusion or other target located at or near the distal end of the probe 704. For example, a bundle of optical fibers 721 or other arrangement of optical fibers 721 can be held against the outer surface of the tube 713, for example, with a covering or adhesive material (e.g., heat shrink or other shrink wrap material). Near the distal end of the tube 713, the optical fibers 721 can follow a recess in the exterior of the tube 713 and transition via an inlet to a hole 720 within the sidewall of the tube 713, for example, can provide access for the optical fibers 721 to the terminus of the hole 720 at the distal end of the tube 713. The void between the covering material and the outer surface of the tube 713 (e.g., near the optical fibers 721) can be filled with a surgical grade silicone or other sealant. More than one set or bundle of optical fibers 721 can extend along the exterior of the tube 713 before transitioning via an inlet to a corresponding hole that provides access within the sidewall of the tube 713. Such additional inlets can be angularly offset from other inlets by 5 degrees or more relative to the centerline of the tube 704. In certain examples, the tube 713 can be hollow to define an internal passageway that can also be used to flush or evacuate or aspirate material around the distal end of the probe 704, for example.

[0034] Figure 8 An example distal view of a portion of an ablation probe 804 for use with one or more of the example systems is generally shown. Figures 1 to 4 An example distal view of a portion of an ablation probe 804 for use with one or more of the example systems is generally shown. The ablation probe 804 can include a metallic or rigid tube 813 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to an occlusion. One or more optical fibers 821 can extend along the tube 813, for example, can be used to apply laser energy to an occlusion or other target. The tube 813 can include one or more recessed channels 823 on and along the outer surface of the tube 813, for example, to cradle one or more optical fibers 821. The optical fibers 821 can be held within the channels of the tube 813, for example, by a covering or adhesive material (e.g., heat shrink or other shrink wrap material). The void between the covering material and the outer surface of the tube 813 (e.g., near the optical fibers 821) can be filled with a surgical grade silicone or other sealant. The multi-modal probe 804 can include more or fewer bundles of optical fibers 821 than shown. Figure 8

[0035] Figure 9 ​A portion of an example mechanical ablation system 900 including a composition detector 945 configured to sense ablation material in the material management system 930 and determine composition information of the sensed ablation material is shown. This portion of the example mechanical ablation system 900 can include a portion of the material management system 930, the ablation probe 904, the light source 906, the optical detector 912, the feedback analyzer 910, and the mechanical ablation controller 909.

[0036] The mechanical ablation controller 909 can be used to generate and modulate a signal used to generate mechanical ablation energy. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 909 can include a transducer used to generate mechanical ablation energy. In some examples, the transducer can be located in the ablation probe 904 or in the handle 911 of the ablation probe. It should be appreciated that in some examples (e.g., the example shown), the ablation probe 904 can extend through a lumen of a viewing instrument. The material management system 930 can include an evacuation path 931 to remove irrigation and ablated biological material from a distal end of the ablation probe 904. In certain examples, the evacuation path 931 can terminate at a collection system so that the ablated material and other materials can be properly contained and disposed of. Figures 1 to 4

[0037] The evacuation path 931 can include an optically transparent portion 932. The light source 906 can be placed to allow light to pass through the optically transparent portion 932 of the evacuation path 931. The optical sensor 912 can be placed on the opposite side of the transparent portion 932 from the light source 906 and can have a sensing face focused toward the light source 906. As the ablated material 922 passes through the transparent portion 932, the optical sensor 906 can collect information about the composition of the ablated material 922. The feedback analyzer 910 can receive a signal from the optical sensor 906 and can analyze the signal to obtain composition characteristics of the detected ablated material 922. The composition characteristics can include, but are not limited to, size, density, chemical composition, shape, or combinations thereof. Detection of each composition characteristic can depend on the complexity of the optical sensor 912 and the light source 906. Figure 10A Figure 10B An example of how the feedback analyzer can determine size and density is shown. Figure 10A Figure 10B ​​​The intensity signal provided by the optical sensor as two pieces of ablated material are detected by the optical sensor passing through the ejection path between the light source and the optical sensor is shown. Each piece of material is detected via a decrease or drop in the intensity of the light received from the light source. The relative size of each piece can be detected by comparing the length in time of each drop 1090. In certain examples, the system can include flow information provided by the assessment system or by a dedicated sensor. The flow information can help provide a measured size of each piece 1010. In some examples, the optical sensor can include an array of light sensors such that images can be captured and analyzed to provide size information. Figure 10B The pieces shown do not have a drop as large as Figure 10A The drop. The difference between the depth of the drops can indicate that the ablated debris detected in Figure 10A is more dense than the ablated debris detected in Figure 10B In certain examples, a combination of the intensity level and size of the pieces can be used to estimate the absolute density or hardness of the current material being ablated. Such estimates can then be used to provide real-time feedback to the mechanical ablation controller as discussed below. Parameters of the mechanical ablation controller can be adjusted based on the feedback such that the current treatment can be applied more efficiently, or as efficiently as the mechanical ablation controller is capable of applying the treatment. Parameters of the mechanical ablation controller that can be adjusted include, but are not limited to: drive signal shape (e.g., sine wave, square wave, sawtooth wave, etc.), frequency (e.g., fixed or continuously scanned), amplitude (e.g., fixed or continuously scanned), pulse width and pulse frequency, or combinations thereof.

[0038] Referring again to Figure 9 , in certain examples, the optical sensor 906 can provide or indeed be a spectrometer. In some examples, the optical sensor 906 is capable of measuring flow as the edges of the stone fragments 922 move through the field of view of the optical sensor 906. In some examples, the analyzer can integrate the size of the stone fragments 922 over a period of time to estimate the mass or volume of the ablated stone 917. In certain examples, the detection information from the optical sensor 906, the analysis information from the feedback analyzer 910, or a combination of the detection information from the optical sensor 906 and the analysis information from the feedback analyzer 910 can be passed to an artificial intelligence application or a machine learning application (e.g., a cloud 935-based application) for further processing. In such applications, not only can historical process information from a local process location be combined with other process information from regional, national, or global process locations to further adjust the in-process process for more efficient treatment.

[0039] Figure 11A portion of an example mechanical ablation system 1100 is shown. System 1100 illustrates the ablation of biological material 1117 (e.g., a stone) via mechanical ablation, and the removal of stone fragments 1122 via a discharge path 1131, which may include an ablation probe 1404 and a handle. This portion of system 1100 may include a composition detector 1145 configured to sense the ablated material or stone fragments 1122 in the discharge path 1131 of the material management system 1130 and determine the composition information of the stone fragments 1122. The system may also include an ablation instrument 1103 and an ablation controller 1109. The ablation instrument 1103 may include an ablation probe 1104 and a handle 1111, as described above. Figure 1 The examples described herein. It should be understood that in some examples (e.g.) Figures 1 to 4 In the example shown, the ablation probe 904 may extend through the lumen of the observation instrument. The drainage path 1131 may be part of a drainage system for flushing and draining ablated material (e.g., stone fragment 1122) from the patient. The drainage path 1131 may include a transparent portion 1132 to facilitate the analysis of the composition of the stone fragment 1122.

[0040] The composition detector 1145 can be positioned generally along the evacuation path 1131 between the ablation instrument 1407 and a local terminus of the evacuation path 1131. Such a local terminus can include a collection system or vacuum source for the evacuation path 1131. The composition detector 1145 can include a light source 1406, an optical sensor system 1112. The optical sensor system 1112 can detect the stone fragments 1122 and analyze the optical response of the stone fragments 1122 to derive composition information for presentation to an operator of the ablation system, or to adjust the therapy of the ablation controller 1409. In certain examples, the optical response can include light from the light source that is reflected by the stone fragments 1122. In some examples, the optical response can be fluorescence generated by the stone fragments 1122 in response to light from the light source 1406. In some examples, the complexity of the optical sensor system 1112 can determine the composition information provided by the composition detector 1145. For example, a less complex optical sensor system 1112 can be able to provide a size or shape of the stone fragments 1122. A more complex optical sensor system 1112 can also provide color details and surface texture details of the stone fragments 1122. As the complexity of the optical sensor system increases, additional composition aspects of the stone fragments 1122 can be determined, and more complex and timely feedback control of the ablation therapy can be implemented. In certain examples, the optical sensor system 1122 can include a spectrometer or spectral analyzer 1140, such that near real-time feedback of the composition of the stone fragments 1122 can be determined and used to adjust the ablation therapy to help provide a more efficient therapy. Such near real-time feedback can include an estimate of hardness, which can have a significant impact on modulating the ablation energy to efficiently deliver the ablation energy.

[0041] In certain examples, the optical sensor system 1112 can provide details about the ablated stone fragments 1122 to an electronic medical record system 1136. Such details can be used to ensure an accurate history for a patient, as well as for research and improvement of the composition estimates provided by the composition detector 1145.

[0042] Figure 12 A portion of an example composition detector 1245 is shown that is configured to divert ablated material 1222 from an evacuation path 1231 of an evacuation system and determine composition information of the ablated material 1222. While not limited as such, in some examples the illustrated composition detector 1245 can be used as illustrated and described below, or can be a composition detector such as Figure 11 or Figure 1part of a larger system of a mechanical ablation system, or used in an ablation system that employs another form of ablation such as a laser ablation system. In certain examples, the composition detector 1245 can include a flow control actuator 1241, an optical sensor system 1212, a light source 1206, and an optional collection chamber 1250. In some examples, the flow control actuator 1241 can be used with an upstream sensor and controller to adjust the flow velocity of the exhaust path 1231. In such examples, the actuator 1241 can slow or stop the flow to allow the optical sensor system 1212 to collect image information of stone fragments 1222 (e.g., stone fragments sensed upstream by the upstream sensor). In such applications, the composition detector 1245 can not include a collection chamber 1250.

[0043] In some examples, the composition detector 1245 includes a collection chamber 1250 so that the flow actuator 1241 can capture stone fragments 1222 and move the captured fragments to the collection chamber 1250. In some examples, the collected fragments 1222 can be removed from the collection chamber 1250 for analysis outside the system. In some systems, once in the collection chamber 1250, the optical sensor system 1212 can collect illumination responses from the collected fragments 1222 and generate composition information. In certain examples, the optical sensor system 1212 can include a spectrometer, or can extract spectral information from the signals provided by the optical sensors of the optical sensor system 1212. In certain examples, the optical sensor system 1212 can include an analyzer 1210 for receiving the spectral information and generating an estimate of the chemical or material composition of the stone fragments 1222. In some examples, the analyzer can provide an estimate of the hardness of the stone fragments 1222. In certain examples, the optical sensor system 1212 can provide control signals to an ablation controller to provide closed loop control of the ablation therapy. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 can provide raw or analyzed data to a telemedicine system, to a remote or cloud-based artificial intelligence system, to a remote or cloud-based machine learning system, or a combination thereof.

[0044] Figure 13An example of a method 1300 of ablating and analyzing a biological sample during an ablation procedure and within a system for an ablation procedure is generally shown. At 1301, a biological sample, such as a calculus, can be mechanically or acoustically treated via an ablation probe of an ablation system. In some examples, the biological sample can be located within a patient, and the ablation probe can extend into the patient through a working channel of a scope instrument. At 1303, at least a portion of the biological sample can be illuminated by an illumination source. At 1305, an optical response signal can be obtained at an optical sensor in response to the illumination of the at least a portion of the sample. At 1307, spectral information of the optical response signal can be analyzed at the site of the patient during the same medical procedure as the treatment to determine an indication of a composition of the at least a portion of the sample. In some examples, the illumination and analysis of the biological sample can be performed while the biological sample is being ablated within the patient. In some examples, the illumination and analysis of the biological sample can be performed while the biological sample is being expelled from the patient, or immediately after the biological sample is expelled from the patient but while still within an expulsion path of a material management system. The material management system can be used to flush the ablation region, and to expel, collect, and dispose of the ablated material and the flushing material. In certain examples, the estimate of the composition of the biological sample can be used to adjust the ablation treatment.

[0045] Examples and Illustrations

[0046] In a first example, Example 1, a combined system for both analyzing a biological sample at a site of a patient during a medical procedure and also treating the biological sample at the site of the patient during the same medical procedure can include an acoustic transmission probe configured to extend through a working channel of a scope instrument to acoustically treat a biological sample within a patient at a distal end of the probe, an illumination light path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample, a response light path configured to obtain an optical response signal from the at least a portion of the biological sample in response to the illumination, and a spectrometer configured to analyze spectral information of the optical response signal at the site of the patient during the same medical procedure as the treatment to determine an indication of a composition of the at least a portion of the sample.

[0047] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 includes, wherein the illumination light path is configured to deliver light toward the distal end of the probe.

[0048] In Example 3, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-2 can optionally further include, wherein the illumination light path extends along the probe through the working channel of the scope instrument.

[0049] In Example 4, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-3 can optionally further include a scope instrument; and wherein the scope instrument includes the illumination light path.

[0050] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-4 can optionally further include, wherein the observation instrument includes a camera configured to detect the optical response signal for communication to the optical spectrometer.

[0051] In Example 6, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-5 can optionally further include an ejection path extending from the distal end of the probe and including the channel of the probe, the ejection path configured to eject at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe.

[0052] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-6 can optionally further include, wherein the ejection path is accessed by the illumination light path and the response light path to allow the illumination, the obtaining of the optical response, and the analysis to be performed on the at least a portion of the biological sample while the at least a portion of the biological sample is located in the ejection path.

[0053] In Example 8, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-7 can optionally further include a container configured to receive at least a portion of the biological sample from the ejection path, wherein the container is accessed by the illumination light path and the response light path to allow the illumination, the obtaining of the optical response, and the analysis to be performed on the at least a portion of the biological sample while the at least a portion of the sample is located in the container.

[0054] In Example 9, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-8 can optionally further include, wherein at least one or both of the illumination path or the response light path is coupled to the at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion.

[0055] In Example 10, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-9 can optionally further include, wherein the optical spectrometer is configured to receive the optical response signal via the transparent portion.

[0056] In Example 11, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-10 can optionally further include a controller circuit configured to, in response to information including an indication of a composition of the at least a portion of the biological sample that was analyzed, at least one of establish or adjust the ejection parameter.

[0057] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-11 can optionally further include a controller circuit configured to, in response to information including an indication of a composition of the at least a portion of the biological sample that was analyzed, at least one of establish or adjust the acoustic treatment parameter.

[0058] Example 13 is a method of both analyzing a biological sample at a site of a patient during a medical procedure and also processing a biological sample at the site of the patient during the same medical procedure, the method comprising: acoustically processing a biological sample within a patient via an acoustic transmission probe extending through a working channel of a scope instrument into the patient; illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample; obtaining an optical response signal in response to the illuminating; and analyzing spectral information of the optical response signal at the site of the patient during the same medical procedure as the processing to determine an indication of a composition of at least the portion of the biological sample.

[0059] In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 can optionally further include, wherein the illuminating comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample via a first optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the scope instrument.

[0060] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-14 can optionally further include, wherein the obtaining the optical response signal comprises: transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a camera of the scope instrument.

[0061] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-15 can optionally further include, wherein the obtaining the optical response signal comprises: transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a second optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the scope instrument.

[0062] In Example 17, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-16 can optionally further include, expelling at least a portion of the biological sample from a distal end of the probe toward a local collection container via an expulsion path comprising at least a portion of a longitudinal channel of the probe; and wherein the illuminating, the obtaining the optical response, and the analyzing are performed when the at least a portion of the sample is in the local collection container.

[0063] In Example 18, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-17 can optionally further include, expelling at least a portion of the biological from a distal end of the probe via an expulsion path comprising at least a portion of a longitudinal channel of the probe; and wherein the illuminating, the obtaining the optical response, and the analyzing are performed when the at least a portion of the biological sample is expelled along the expulsion path.

[0064] In Example 19, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-18 can optionally further include, wherein at least one of the illuminating or the obtaining the optical response, or both, are performed via at least one optically transparent portion positioned along the expulsion path.

[0065] In Example 20, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-19 can optionally further include, in response to the information including an indication of a composition of at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, performing at least one of establishing an evacuation parameter or adjusting an evacuation parameter.

[0066] In Example 21, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13-20 can optionally further include, in response to the information including an indication of a composition of at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, performing at least one of establishing an acoustic treatment parameter or adjusting an acoustic treatment parameter.

[0067] Example 22 is an ablation instrument for ablating tissue at a distal end of a probe, the ablation instrument comprising: a probe having a distal end configured to extend through a working channel of a viewing instrument; and an evacuation path configured to pass a portion of the ablated tissue, wherein a first portion of the evacuation path comprises the probe; and a target identification system configured to: optically sense the portion of the ablated tissue within the evacuation path, measure aspects of the portion, and provide a first signal representative of the aspects.

[0068] In Example 23, the subject matter of Example 22 can optionally further include, wherein the evacuation path comprises an optically transparent portion between a proximal end of the probe and a collection system.

[0069] In Example 24, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22-23 can optionally further include, wherein the target identification system comprises an illumination source directed toward the optically transparent portion.

[0070] In Example 25, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22-24 can optionally further include, wherein the target identification system comprises an optical sensor positioned opposite the illumination source with respect to the transparent portion; and wherein the optical sensor is configured to generate the first signal.

[0071] In Example 26, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22-25 can optionally further include, wherein the target identification system comprises a spectrometer configured to receive a response illumination from the optically transparent portion and generate the first signal.

[0072] In Example 27, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22-26 can optionally further include a flow control configured to: receive the first signal, and in response to the first signal, change a flow of the portion of the ablated tissue.

[0073] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22-27 can optionally further include, wherein the flow control is configured to: capture the portion as a sample within a sample chamber coupled with the evacuation path.

[0074] Example 29 is a method of ablating tissue, the method comprising: applying energy to the tissue via a distal end of an ablation probe; evacuating a portion of the ablated tissue via an evacuation path, the evacuation path comprising a channel of the ablation probe; optically sensing the portion of the ablated tissue as it moves through the evacuation path; and measuring aspects of the portion; and providing a first signal representative of the aspects.

[0075] In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 can optionally further include receiving the first signal at a monitor and displaying the aspects.

[0076] In Example 31, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-30 can optionally further include wherein applying energy comprises applying mechanical ablation energy to the tissue; and wherein the method comprises receiving the first signal at a source of the mechanical ablation energy and adjusting a characteristic of the mechanical ablation energy based on the first signal.

[0077] In Example 32, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-31 can optionally further include wherein optically sensing the portion comprises directing illumination through an optically transparent portion of the evacuation path.

[0078] In Example 33, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-32 can optionally further include wherein optically sensing the portion comprises directing illumination through an optically transparent portion of the evacuation path toward an optical sensor.

[0079] In Example 34, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-33 can optionally further include wherein measuring comprises measuring an optical intensity of the illumination at the optical sensor.

[0080] In Example 35, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-34 can optionally further include wherein the first signal is based on the optical intensity of the illumination.

[0081] In Example 36, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-35 can optionally further include wherein optically sensing comprises receiving the responsive illumination from the transparent portion of the evacuation path at a spectrometer.

[0082] In Example 37, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-36 can optionally further include wherein measuring comprises measuring spectral information of the responsive illumination.

[0083] In Example 38, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-37 can optionally further include wherein the first signal is based on the spectral information.

[0084] In Example 39, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-38 can optionally further include adjusting a flow of the ablated tissue through the evacuation path in response to the first signal.

[0085] In Example 40, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29-39 can optionally further include wherein adjusting the flow includes trapping the portion in a sample chamber coupled to the evacuation path.

[0086] Example 41 is an apparatus for sensing ablation material, the apparatus comprising: an evacuation path configured to pass irrigation and ablation material from an ablation probe to a collection system; a light source configured to illuminate the irrigation and ablation material within the evacuation path; an optical sensor focused toward the evacuation path; and a controller configured to receive a first signal from the optical sensor and provide measurement information about the ablation material based on the signal.

[0087] In Example 42, the subject matter of Example 41 can optionally further include a flow control actuator configured to divert a flow of the ablation material within the evacuation path.

[0088] In Example 43, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-42 can optionally further include a sample reservoir coupled to the evacuation path, the sample reservoir configured to receive a sample of the ablation material in response to the flow control actuator diverting the flow of the ablation material.

[0089] In Example 44, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-43 can optionally further include wherein the optical sensor includes a spectrometer.

[0090] In Example 45, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-44 can optionally further include wherein the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing the measurement information to an ultrasonic ablation energy source.

[0091] In Example 46, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-45 can optionally further include wherein the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing the measurement information to a laser ablation energy source.

[0092] Example 47 is a composition identification system, the system comprising: a probe configured to extend through a working channel of a scope and deliver mechanical energy to tissue of a patient to ablate the tissue at a distal end of the probe; an illumination source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; and a spectrometer configured to receive a response to the illumination from the at least a portion of the tissue and provide composition information about the at least a portion of the tissue.

[0093] In Example 48, the subject matter of Example 47 can optionally further include a first optical medium configured to transmit light from the illumination source to the distal end of the probe.

[0094] In Example 49, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-48 can optionally further include, wherein the first optical medium extends through the working channel with the probe.

[0095] In Example 50, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-49 can optionally further include a viewing instrument; and wherein the viewing instrument includes the first optical medium.

[0096] In Example 51, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-50 can optionally further include, wherein the viewing instrument includes a camera configured to receive the responsive illumination and transmit the responsive illumination to the spectrometer via a first signal.

[0097] In Example 52, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-51 can optionally further include a second optical medium configured to extend through the working channel with the probe, the second optical medium configured to transmit the illumination response to the spectrometer.

[0098] In Example 53, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-52 can optionally further include an ejection path configured to eject at least a portion of the tissue toward the collection system, wherein the ejection path includes the channel of the probe.

[0099] In Example 54, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-53 can optionally further include, wherein the ejection path includes an optically transparent portion between the probe and the collection system.

[0100] In Example 55, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-54 can optionally further include, wherein the illumination source is configured to illuminate the at least a portion of the tissue at the transparent portion.

[0101] In Example 56, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-55 can optionally further include, wherein the spectrometer is configured to receive the responsive illumination at the transparent portion.

[0102] In Example 57, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-56 can optionally further include a flow control configured to change a flow of the at least a portion of the tissue in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer.

[0103] In Example 58, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47-57 can optionally further include, wherein the flow control is configured to capture the portion as a sample within a sample chamber coupled with the ejection path.

[0104] Example 59 is a method of operating a composition identification system, the method comprising: mechanically ablating tissue via a probe extending through a working channel of a viewing instrument; illuminating at least a portion of the tissue to provide a responsive illumination; and generating a first signal based on the responsive illumination, the first signal comprising spectral analysis information about a composition of the at least a portion of the tissue.

[0105] In Example 60, the subject matter of Example 59 can optionally further comprise, wherein the illuminating comprises: illuminating the at least a portion of the tissue via a first optical medium extending through the working channel with the probe.

[0106] In Example 61, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-60 can optionally further comprise, wherein the generating the first signal comprises: relaying the illumination response to a spectrometer via a camera of the viewing instrument.

[0107] In Example 62, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-61 can optionally further comprise, wherein the generating the first signal comprises: receiving the responsive illumination at the spectrometer via a second optical medium extending through the working channel with the probe.

[0108] In Example 63, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-62 can optionally further comprise: expelling the at least a portion of the tissue from a distal end of the probe toward a collection system via an expulsion path, the expulsion path comprising a channel of the probe.

[0109] In Example 64, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-63 can optionally further comprise, wherein the illuminating comprises: illuminating the at least a portion of the tissue via an optically transparent portion of the expulsion path, the optically transparent portion being between proximal ends of the collection system.

[0110] In Example 65, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-64 can optionally further comprise, wherein the generating the first signal based on the responsive illumination comprises: receiving the illumination response at the spectrometer located adjacent to the transparent portion.

[0111] In Example 66, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-65 can optionally further comprise: altering a flow of the at least a portion of the tissue responsive to a second signal received from a flow sensor of the spectrometer.

[0112] In Example 67, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59-66 can optionally further comprise: capturing the at least a portion of the tissue as a sample within a sample chamber coupled with the expulsion path.

[0113] In Example 68, a system for analyzing and processing a biological sample can include an acoustic transmission probe to acoustically process a biological sample, the biological sample being located within a patient at a distal end of the probe, and an evacuation system configured to evacuate portions of the biological sample from an area surrounding the distal end of the probe, the portions being broken off from the biological sample in response to the acoustic processing. The evacuation system can include an evacuation path configured to move the portions to an end-point collection system, and a sample chamber configured to divert a first portion of the portions from the evacuation path to provide a sample of the biological sample.

[0114] In Example 69, the system of Example 68 can optionally further include an illumination source configured to illuminate the sample within the sample chamber.

[0115] In Example 70, the system of any one of Examples 68-69 can optionally include an optical sensor system configured to generate spectral information based on responsive illumination received from the sample in response to illumination provided by the illumination source.

[0116] In Example 71, the system of any one of Examples 68-70 can optionally be a spectrometer configured to provide the spectral information of the sample.

[0117] In Example 72, the system of any one or more of Examples 68-71 can optionally include a controller configured to receive the spectral information and to drive the acoustic transmission probe, the controller further configured to adjust parameters for driving the acoustic transmission probe in response to the spectral information.

[0118] Example 73 is at least one machine readable medium including instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry, cause the processing circuitry to perform operations to implement any of Examples 1-72.

[0119] Example 74 is an apparatus including means for implementing any of Examples 1-72.

[0120] Example 75 is a system for implementing any of Examples 1-72.

[0121] Example 76 is a method for implementing any of Examples 1-72.

[0122] The above detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the detailed description. By way of illustration, the drawings show specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples may include elements other than those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Furthermore, the inventors contemplate examples using any combination or substitution of those elements (or one or more aspects of those elements) shown or described with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects of that particular example) or with respect to other examples shown or described herein (or one or more aspects of those other examples).

[0123] In the event of any inconsistency between the usage in this document and any other document incorporated by reference, the usage in this document shall prevail.

[0124] In this document, as is common in patent literature, the terms "a" or "an" are used to include one or more, regardless of any other instance or use of "at least one" or "one or more." In this document, unless otherwise indicated, the term "or" is used to mean a non-exclusive "or," such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B." In this document, the terms "comprising" and "in..." are used as concise English equivalents to the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein." Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "including" are open-ended, meaning that a system, apparatus, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements other than those listed following this term is still considered to fall within the scope of the subject matter discussed. Additionally, as may appear in the claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as designations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their subject matter.

[0125] The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the examples (or one or more aspects of the examples) described above may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments may be used by those skilled in the art after reviewing the above description. An abstract is provided to enable the reader to quickly determine the nature of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted on the understanding that it will not be used to define or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the above detailed embodiments, various features may be combined together to simplify the disclosure. This should not be construed as meaning that all unclaimed disclosed features are necessary for any claim. Rather, the subject matter of the invention may lie in fewer than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. The appended aspects are thus incorporated into the detailed embodiments as examples or embodiments, wherein each aspect exists independently as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments may be combined with each other in various combinations or arrangements.

Claims

1. A system for analyzing and processing biological samples from a patient, the system comprising: An acoustic transmission probe is configured to extend through the working channel of an observation instrument to acoustically process the biological sample at the distal end of the probe; An illumination optical path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample; A responsive optical path, configured to receive an optical response signal in response to illumination from at least a portion of the biological sample; A spectrometer configured to analyze the spectral information of the optical response signal to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample; as well as A controller circuit is configured to establish or adjust at least one of the acoustic processing parameters in real time based on indications of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample, to provide closed-loop processing control. The illumination optical path is configured to transmit light toward the far end of the probe. The system further includes an outlet path extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, the outlet path being configured to discharge at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe. At least a portion of the discharge path is accessed by the illumination optical path and the response optical path to allow illumination, acquisition of optical response signals, and analysis of at least a portion of the biological sample when at least a portion of the biological sample is located in the discharge path.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The illumination light path extends along the probe through the working channel of the observation mirror instrument.

3. The system of claim 1 further includes a container configured to receive at least a portion of the biological sample from the discharge path, the container being accessed by the illumination optical path and the response optical path to allow illumination, optical response, and analysis of at least a portion of the biological sample while the at least portion of the biological sample is located in the container.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller circuit is configured to: in response to information indicating a component including at least a portion of the biological sample, establish or adjust at least one of the discharge parameters.

5. The system according to claim 1 further includes the observation mirror instrument, the observation mirror instrument including the illumination optical path.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein, The observation instrument includes a camera device configured to detect the optical response signal to be transmitted to the spectrometer.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, At least one or both of the illumination optical path or the response optical path are coupled to at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The spectrometer is configured to receive the optical response signal via the transparent portion.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller circuit is configured to adjust the acoustic processing parameters in response to information indicating that the components include at least a portion of the biological sample.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The acoustic processing parameters include at least one of the following: the shape, frequency, amplitude, pulse width, or pulse frequency of the driving signal for acoustic processing of the acoustic transmission probe.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller circuit is configured to establish or adjust the acoustic processing parameters in real time based on indications of at least a portion of the components of the biological sample.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The spectrometer is configured to determine at least one of the size, shape, surface texture, density, hardness, or color of at least a portion of the biological sample to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample.

13. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, wherein the illumination optical path and the response optical path are mounted to the tube.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, wherein the illumination optical path and the response optical path are respectively integrated with the tube.

15. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, wherein the illumination optical path and the response optical path extend along a portion of the tube and are transferred through a recess in the tube at a distal portion of the tube.

16. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The spectrometer and the controller circuit are configured to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample, and to adjust the acoustic processing parameters in response to information including the indication of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample to provide closed-loop processing control.

17. An ablation device for ablating tissue, the ablation device comprising: A probe having a distal end positioned adjacent to the tissue and configured to extend through the working channel of an observation instrument, wherein an illumination path transmits light toward the distal end of the probe. An exhaust path configured to deliver a portion of ablated tissue, wherein a first portion of the exhaust path includes the probe, and the exhaust path is configured to exhaust a portion of the ablated tissue from the distal end of the probe; A target identification system includes a spectrometer configured to: optically sense a portion of the ablated tissue within the discharge path and analyze spectral information of an optical response signal from the portion to determine an indication of the composition of the portion of the ablated tissue; and A controller circuit is configured to, in real time, establish or adjust at least one of the acoustic processing parameters of the ablation instrument based on indications of the composition of the portion of the ablated tissue, to provide closed-loop processing control. At least a portion of the discharge path is accessed by the illumination and response optical paths to allow illumination, acquisition of optical response signals, and analysis of a portion of the ablated tissue when the portion of the ablated tissue is located in the discharge path.

18. The ablation device according to claim 17, wherein, The discharge path includes an optically transparent portion located between the proximal end of the probe and the collection system.

19. The ablation device according to claim 18, wherein: The target recognition system includes an illumination source that is guided toward the optically transparent portion; The target recognition system includes an optical sensor positioned relative to the transparent portion and the illumination source; and The optical sensor is configured to generate a first signal representing a portion of the ablated tissue in terms of measurement aspects.

20. The ablation device according to claim 18, wherein, The spectrometer is configured to receive responsive illumination from the optically transparent portion and generate a first signal representing a measurement aspect of the portion of the ablated tissue.

21. The ablation device according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising a flow control, the flow control being configured to: Receive the first signal, and in response to the first signal, change the flow of the portion of the ablated tissue; and A portion of the ablated tissue is captured as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

22. An apparatus for sensing ablation material, the apparatus comprising: The discharge path is configured to deliver flushing and ablation material from the ablation probe to the collection system; A light source configured to illuminate the flushing and ablating material within the discharge path; An optical sensor includes a spectrometer focused toward the discharge path, the spectrometer being configured to analyze spectral information from an optical response signal from the ablation material to determine an indication of the composition of the ablation material; as well as A controller circuit is configured to establish or adjust at least one of the acoustic processing parameters of the device in real time based on an indication of the composition of the ablation material, to provide closed-loop processing control. At least a portion of the discharge path is accessed by an illumination optical path and a response optical path to allow illumination, acquisition of optical response signals, and analysis of the flushing and ablating material when it is located in the discharge path.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising: A flow control actuator configured to redirect the flow of the ablation material within the discharge path; as well as A sample storage device, coupled to the discharge path and configured to receive a sample of the ablation material in response to the flow control actuator redirecting the flow of the ablation material.

24. The device according to claim 22, wherein, The controller circuit is configured to receive a first signal from the optical sensor and provide measurement information about the ablation material based on the first signal, and to provide a second signal representing the measurement information to at least one of an ultrasonic ablation energy source or a laser ablation energy source.

25. A component identification system, comprising: A probe is configured to extend through the working channel of an observation mirror and deliver mechanical energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at the distal end of the probe; A light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; A spectrometer configured to receive response illumination from at least a portion of the tissue and analyze spectral information of the response illumination from at least a portion of the tissue to provide compositional information about at least a portion of the tissue; An extraction path extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, the extraction path being configured to extract at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe; as well as A controller circuit is configured to, in real time, perform or adjust at least one of the acoustic processing parameters of the component recognition system based on indications of components of at least a portion of the tissue, to provide closed-loop processing control. At least a portion of the discharge path is accessed by an illumination optical path and a response optical path to allow illumination of at least a portion of the tissue, acquisition of spectral information of the response illumination, and analysis when at least a portion of the tissue is located in the discharge path.

26. The component identification system according to claim 25, comprising: A first optical medium is configured to transmit light from the illumination source to the distal end of the probe.

27. The component identification system according to claim 26, wherein, The first optical medium extends through the working channel together with the probe.

28. The component identification system according to claim 27, comprising an observation instrument; and in, The observation instrument includes the first optical medium.

29. The component identification system according to claim 28, wherein, The observation instrument includes a camera device configured to receive the response illumination and transmit the response illumination to the spectrometer via a first signal.

30. The component identification system according to claim 26, comprising: A second optical medium, configured to extend through the working channel together with the probe, is configured to transmit the response illumination to the spectrometer.

31. The component identification system according to claim 25, wherein, The discharge path is configured to discharge at least a portion of the tissue toward the collection system.

32. The component identification system according to claim 31, wherein, The discharge path includes an optically transparent section located between the probe and the collection system.

33. The component identification system according to claim 32, wherein, The light source is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue at the transparent portion.

34. The component identification system according to claim 33, wherein, The spectrometer is configured to receive the response illumination at the transparent portion.

35. The component identification system according to claim 31, comprising: A flow control configured to alter the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer.

36. The component identification system according to claim 35, wherein, The flow control is configured to capture the portion as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

37. A system for analyzing and processing biological samples, the system comprising: An acoustic transmission probe for acoustically processing the biological sample, which is located in a patient at the distal end of the probe; An ejection system configured to eject multiple portions of the biological sample from a region surrounding the distal end of the probe, the multiple portions being broken up from the biological sample in response to the acoustic treatment, wherein the ejection system includes: An exhaust path, configured to move the plurality of portions to a destination collection system; and A sample chamber, coupled to the discharge path, and configured to divert a first portion of the plurality of sections from the discharge path to provide a sample of the biological sample; A lighting source configured to illuminate the samples within the sample chamber; A target recognition system includes a spectrometer configured to optically sense a portion of a plurality of portions and analyze spectral information of optical response signals from the portion to determine an indication of the composition of the portion; and A controller circuit is configured to establish or adjust at least one of the acoustic processing parameters of the system in real time based on indications of components of the plurality of parts, to provide closed-loop processing control. The sample chamber is accessed by an illumination optical path and a response optical path to allow illumination, acquisition of optical response signals, and analysis of at least a portion of the biological sample when at least a portion of the biological sample is located in the sample chamber.

38. The system of claim 37, comprising: An optical sensor system configured to generate spectral information based on response illumination received from the sample in response to illumination provided by the illumination source.

39. The system according to claim 38, wherein, The spectrometer is configured to provide spectral information of the sample.

40. The system according to claim 39, wherein, The controller circuit is configured to receive the spectral information and drive the acoustic transmission probe, and the controller circuit is also configured to adjust the parameters used to drive the acoustic transmission probe in response to the spectral information.

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