Light irradiation apparatus and light irradiation system

Abstract

The light irradiation device (2) is elongated. The light irradiation device (2) is provided with laser light sources (230A, 230B), which emit laser light of a predetermined wavelength band, at the tip section thereof. The laser light sources (230A, 230B) emit laser light in a direction intersecting the long axis direction of the light irradiation device (2). The light irradiation device (2) is capable of selectively irradiating the laser light emitted from the laser light sources (230A, 230B) to a specific position of a living body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a light irradiation device and a light irradiation system which are inserted into a lumen of a living body and irradiate light. Background Art

[0002] As one of the technologies for treating diseases, PDT (Photodynamic Therapy) is known. In PDT, after a photosensitive substance is administered to a living body, light is irradiated to the living body. As a result, there is a possibility that cancer cells will be exterminated due to the active oxygen generated in the cancer cells. However, in PDT, it is difficult to selectively accumulate photosensitive substances in cancer cells. The generation of side effects caused by the ingestion of photosensitive substances by normal cells has become a subject of PDT.

[0003] In contrast, NIR-PIT (Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy) has been proposed in recent years. In NIR-PIT, a complex is used that combines two compounds, an antibody against a specific antigen of a cancer cell and a photosensitive substance. If the complex is administered to a living body, the complex tends to selectively accumulate in cancer cells in the body. Thereafter, the complex is activated by irradiating the complex with light of an excitation wavelength (e.g., including a wavelength of 690 nm, etc.) of the photosensitive substance in the complex (e.g., refer to Patent Document 1, etc.). In NIR-PIT, if the complex is selectively accumulated in cancer cells by antibodies and light is locally irradiated to the cancer cells, side effects are less likely to be generated compared to PDT.

[0004] The wavelength band including 690nm is also called the biological spectral window, which is a wavelength band where biological components absorb less light than other wavelength bands. On the other hand, light including the wavelength band of 690nm is difficult to penetrate into the body even if irradiated from the body surface, so irradiation from the body surface is difficult to treat cancer deep in the body.

[0005] Therefore, a technology for irradiating light from a position closer to cancer cells instead of irradiating light from the body surface has been proposed. For example, the device described in Patent Document 2 irradiates light from deep inside the body by being inserted into a blood vessel. In the device described in Patent Document 3, compared with the device described in Patent Document 2, a marker having a non-radioactive line is provided near the light irradiation part in order to facilitate the positioning of the light irradiation part. In addition, in the device described in Patent Document 4, a plurality of light emitting diodes are provided in a hollow column. Prior Art Literature Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-523907; Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-867; Patent document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-185257; Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-528752. Summary of the invention

[0007] In the device described in Patent Document 3, it is necessary to transmit the light emitted by the light source disposed outside to the front end of the device through an optical transmission component (such as an optical fiber). If an optical transmission component is used, a bend is generated in the optical transmission component in the lumen of the biological body, so that the light may leak or attenuate before being transmitted to the front end of the device. If the light leaks or attenuates, there is a possibility that the light transmission efficiency or safety may be reduced. In addition, in the process of transmitting light through the optical transmission component, the characteristics of the light (such as wavelength, etc.) change, and there is also a possibility that it is difficult to obtain the desired therapeutic effect. Furthermore, there is also a situation where multiple optical transmission components need to be connected. On the other hand, in the device described in Patent Document 4, although an optical transmission component is not used, the light emitted from multiple light-emitting diodes expands in multiple directions, so it is obviously difficult to selectively irradiate the light to a specific position. Therefore, it is desired to have a technology that can more efficiently and appropriately irradiate light to a specific position in the lumen of a biological body.

[0008] A typical object of the present disclosure is to provide a light irradiation device and a light irradiation system that can more efficiently and appropriately irradiate light to a specific position in a lumen of a living body.

[0009] The light irradiation device provided in a typical embodiment of the present disclosure is a long strip of medical light irradiation device, which has a laser source emitting laser light of a predetermined wavelength band at its front end, and the laser source emits laser light in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction of the light irradiation device.

[0010] The light irradiation system provided in a typical embodiment of the present disclosure is a medical light irradiation system, comprising: a catheter formed in the shape of a long tube; and a long strip of light irradiation equipment, which is inserted into the inner cavity of the aforementioned catheter, the aforementioned light irradiation equipment having a laser source that emits laser light of a predetermined wavelength band at the front end portion, the aforementioned laser source emitting laser light in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction of the aforementioned light irradiation equipment, and a light transmission portion that allows the laser light emitted by the aforementioned laser source possessed by the aforementioned light irradiation equipment to be transmitted to the outside is formed on at least a portion of the side surface on the front end side of the aforementioned catheter.

[0011] According to the light irradiation device and the light irradiation system of the present disclosure, light can be irradiated more efficiently and appropriately to a specific position in the lumen of a living body.

[0012] The light irradiation device disclosed in the present invention is a long strip-shaped medical light irradiation device, and has a laser source for emitting laser light of a predetermined wavelength band at the front end thereof. The laser source emits laser light in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction of the light irradiation device.

[0013] The light irradiation device disclosed in the present invention can directly irradiate light from a laser source provided at the front end to a specific position of a living body without passing through a light transmission component (such as an optical fiber, etc.). Therefore, various problems (such as at least one of the problem of light leakage in the middle of the light transmission component and the problem of changes in the characteristics of light during the transmission of light) that occur when using a light transmission component are appropriately suppressed. In addition, the laser source emits laser light from the front end of the light irradiation device in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction. Compared with a light emitting diode, a laser source can easily emit light that is difficult to diverge and has high directivity. Therefore, the light irradiation device disclosed in the present invention can selectively irradiate the laser light emitted from the laser source to a specific position of a living body. As a result, it is also difficult to produce various adverse conditions (such as the generation of side effects, etc.) caused by irradiating light to an unexpected position. Furthermore, the laser source has the property of being able to irradiate light of a wavelength having a narrower spectral width than a light emitting diode. Therefore, by placing the laser source at the front end of the light irradiation device, the generation of various adverse conditions (e.g., at least one of a decrease in efficiency and unexpected tissue changes, etc.) caused by irradiating the tissue with a wavelength different from the wavelength required for treatment (e.g., the excitation wavelength of the photosensitive substance, etc.) is suppressed. Therefore, it is easy to irradiate light to a specific position in the body more efficiently and appropriately.

[0014] In addition, the "front end" of the light irradiation device does not refer only to the strict front end of the light irradiation device. That is, within the range of being able to selectively irradiate laser light to a specific part, the case where a light irradiation unit is provided at a position closer to the base end than the strict front end is also included in the scope of "provided at the front end" in the present disclosure.

[0015] The light irradiation device may also have a plurality of laser sources at the front end. By providing a plurality of laser sources in one light irradiation device, the degree of freedom of laser irradiation (for example, the ease of adjusting at least one of the irradiation area, irradiation density, irradiation direction, etc. of the laser) is improved compared with the case where only one laser source is provided. As a result, it is easier to obtain an appropriate treatment effect.

[0016] It can also be that the emission of the laser of at least a part of the laser sources of the plurality of laser sources can be controlled independently from other laser sources. In this case, the degree of freedom of laser irradiation is further improved. For example, by adjusting the number of laser sources that make the laser emit, at least any one of the irradiation area, irradiation density, irradiation direction, etc. of the laser can also be changed. In addition, by switching the laser source that makes the laser emit, the position of the irradiation laser can also be changed.

[0017] However, the emission of laser light from a plurality of laser light sources may be collectively controlled. In this case, the degree of freedom of laser irradiation can be appropriately improved by appropriately designing the number and arrangement of the plurality of laser light sources.

[0018] Multiple laser sources may also emit lasers of the same wavelength band. In this case, lasers of the same wavelength band can be irradiated to specific parts with a higher degree of freedom (for example, in a state where at least one of the irradiation area and irradiation density of the laser is properly adjusted). As a result, it is easier to obtain an appropriate treatment effect.

[0019] It is also possible that a laser source of a part of the plurality of laser sources includes a laser source that emits laser light of a wavelength band different from that of other laser sources. In this case, for example, laser light of different wavelength bands can be selectively or combined to irradiate biological tissues, etc. Thus, the degree of freedom of treatment is further improved.

[0020] The laser source may be contained inside the long strip-shaped device body. At least the part of the device body that contains the laser source may be formed of a material that transmits the laser light emitted by the laser source. By containing the laser source inside the device body, the laser source is kept in the device body in a stable state compared to the case where the laser source is exposed from the device body to the outside, and it is also difficult to cause undesirable conditions such as failure of the laser source. Furthermore, the laser light emitted from the laser source transmits the device body and is appropriately irradiated to the biological tissue. Therefore, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately.

[0021] However, the structure of the device body can also be changed. For example, a laser transmission window with omitted components can be formed in the part of the device body through which the laser emitted from the laser source passes. In this case, the material of the part near the laser source in the device body is not limited to the material of the laser transmission.

[0022] The inventors of the present application have newly discovered an ideal range (upper and lower limits) of the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser source at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device to the outside by conducting the first evaluation test and the second evaluation test (described later). The light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser source at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device to the outside can also be 80 W / cm 2 Above and 1600W / cm 2 In this case, it is easy to appropriately obtain the therapeutic effect caused by irradiating the photosensitive substance with laser light.

[0023] Furthermore, the light intensity at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device to the outside may be more preferably 300 W / cm 2 Above 1300W / cm 2 Below, more preferably 600W / cm 2Above 1300W / cm 2 As an example, in the present disclosure, the light irradiation density at the time of irradiation from the light irradiation device to the outside is set to about 1273 W / cm 2 .

[0024] In addition, the above-mentioned conditions of light intensity can be applied regardless of the number of laser sources provided in the light irradiation device. For example, when lasers are simultaneously emitted from a plurality of laser sources and combined, the conditions of light intensity of the combined lasers can also be set to the above-mentioned conditions.

[0025] The light irradiation device may also include a marking portion having a non-radioactive line at the front end portion where the laser source is provided. In this case, when a medical practitioner (e.g., a doctor, etc.) uses radiation (e.g., X-rays, etc.) to photograph the inside of a living body and simultaneously irradiates the living body tissue with a laser through the light irradiation device, the irradiation position of the laser can be appropriately adjusted by confirming the position of the marking portion displayed in the photographed image. Thus, the accuracy of the treatment is easily further improved.

[0026] Alternatively, at least a portion of the laser source is formed of a material that does not transmit radiation, so that the laser source itself functions as a marking portion. In this case, even if the marking portion is not provided separately from the laser source, the position of the laser source can be properly grasped by radioactive imaging. Furthermore, the laser source itself functions as a marking portion, so that medical practitioners can more accurately grasp the position of the laser source. Thus, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately.

[0027] However, the composition of the marking portion can also be changed. For example, the marking portion can be provided separately from the laser source. For example, a front end widget can be provided at the front end portion of the light irradiation component. Alternatively, at least a portion of the front end widget is formed of a material that does not transmit radiation, so that the front end widget functions as a marking portion. In this case, the front end widget also has the function of the marking portion, thereby appropriately assisting in adjusting the irradiation position of the laser while suppressing an increase in the number of parts. In addition, the marking portion can be provided separately from the laser source and the front end widget. In the case where multiple laser sources are used in one light irradiation device, a marking portion can also be provided for each of the laser sources. In this case, it is easy to appropriately grasp the position of each of the multiple laser sources.

[0028] The laser source may also be a surface emitting laser that irradiates laser light in a direction perpendicular to the substrate. By using a surface emitting laser, a light irradiation device that properly emits laser light with low power and has high tolerance to temperature changes is obtained. Furthermore, the surface emitting laser can emit laser light in a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface, so it is easy to more accurately adjust the irradiation position of the laser light.

[0029] The laser source may also be a semiconductor laser, which is a circuit element made of semiconductors as raw materials. Semiconductor lasers are easy to miniaturize, so they are easy to be properly installed even with respect to light irradiation equipment with a small diameter. In addition, semiconductor lasers can emit highly directional lasers with consistent phases at low power. Therefore, the treatment effect is also easy to be stable.

[0030] The light irradiation device may also include a light detection transmission component that transmits light incident to the front end portion to the light sensor or a light sensor disposed at the front end portion. In this case, the state of light incident to the front end portion of the light irradiation portion is properly detected by the light sensor. In addition, in the case where a light detection transmission component that transmits light incident to the front end portion to the light sensor is provided, the state of light at the front end portion is properly detected while suppressing the structure of the front end portion of the light irradiation device from becoming complicated. In addition, in the case where the light sensor is provided at the front end portion, the state of light at the front end portion is directly detected by the light sensor at the front end portion. That is, in the light detected by the light sensor, changes in the characteristics of the light that may occur during the transmission process are unlikely to occur. Therefore, it is easy to detect the state of light more accurately.

[0031] In addition, other sensors may be provided at the front end of the light irradiation device separately from the light sensor or together with the light sensor. For example, a temperature sensor may be provided at the front end of the light irradiation device. In this case, the temperature at the front end of the light irradiation device is appropriately detected. Thus, for example, at least one of the temperature rise caused by the driving of the laser light source provided at the front end and the temperature rise caused by the laser light being emitted to the biological tissue is appropriately grasped. In addition, the light irradiation device may also be provided with a light detection transmission component that transmits the light incident to the front end to the spectroscopic sensor or a spectroscopic sensor provided at the front end. The spectroscopic sensor detects the light generated by the substance that absorbs the light irradiated from the laser source. By confirming the detection result using the spectroscopic sensor, it is possible to confirm whether the laser light is properly irradiated to the target part (for example, the affected part where the photosensitive substance is accumulated). Furthermore, by monitoring the change in the luminous intensity of the light generated by the substance that absorbs the light over time, it is also possible to confirm the progress of the treatment. In addition, the light irradiation device may also be provided with a pressure sensor at the front end. If the photosensitive substance irradiated with the laser reacts, the cell contents are scattered around. By confirming the detection result using the pressure sensor, it is possible to confirm whether the photosensitive substance has reacted appropriately. In addition, the light irradiation device may also include a pH sensor at the front end. In this case, by confirming the detection result using the pH sensor, the pH near the front end of the light irradiation device can be properly grasped. In addition, the light irradiation device may also include a flow rate sensor at the front end. In this case, by confirming the detection result using the flow rate sensor, it is possible to confirm whether the photosensitive substance has reacted appropriately. As described above, the light irradiation device can provide various information useful for treatment by having various sensor systems.

[0032] The light irradiation device may also include a plurality of temperature sensors. The temperature measurement position of each of the plurality of temperature sensors may also be arranged at each of the plurality of positions in the front end portion of the light irradiation device. In this case, useful information can be obtained based on the detection results of the temperature at each of the plurality of measurement positions. For example, the direction of the irradiation laser can also be confirmed by confirming which of the plurality of measurement positions has a higher temperature than the other measurement positions. In addition, medical practitioners can also improve the accuracy of treatment by more accurately grasping the temperature at each measurement position.

[0033] The light irradiation device may also include wiring extending from the base end side to the front end portion. At least one of the wirings may also be arranged in a spiral shape in the main body of the light irradiation device. By arranging the wiring in a spiral shape, it is easy to properly ensure the rigidity of the light irradiation device in a long strip shape compared to the case where the wiring is arranged straight along the axial direction. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment is easy to be further improved.

[0034] In addition, it is possible to appropriately select wiring that is arranged in a spiral shape. For example, the wiring of a temperature sensor (such as a thermocouple, etc.) can also be arranged in a spiral shape. In addition, in the case where the measurement positions (measurement points) of multiple temperature sensors are arranged at the front end of the light irradiation device, the measurement positions of the temperature sensors can also be arranged at each of the multiple positions of the wiring arranged in a spiral shape. In this case, for each direction of the axial direction and the circumferential direction of the light irradiation device that is a long strip, the measurement positions of multiple temperature sensors can be easily and appropriately arranged. In addition, the wiring of the laser source, etc. can also be arranged in a spiral shape.

[0035] In addition, at least one of the wirings may also include a material that does not transmit radiation. In this case, by radiographic imaging, it is easy to properly grasp the position of the long strip of light irradiation equipment. In addition, when the wiring that does not transmit radiation is arranged in a spiral shape, it is easier to grasp the position of the light irradiation equipment.

[0036] The light irradiation device may also be provided with a position detection component for detecting the position of the front end portion in the lumen of the organism. In this case, by detecting the position of the position detection component provided in the light irradiation device, it is easy to properly grasp the position of the front end portion of the light irradiation device in the lumen of the organism. In addition, various components for detecting the position in the lumen (for example, at least one of a small ultrasonic oscillator and a magnet, etc.) can be used as the position detection component.

[0037] The light irradiation device may also include a magnetic component that uses a magnetic force generated by being placed in a magnetic field to guide at least one of the position and direction of the front end portion in the living body. In this case, when the light irradiation device is inserted into the living body, at least one of the position and direction of the front end portion of the light irradiation device is properly guided. Therefore, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately.

[0038] The specific structure of the magnetic component can be appropriately selected. For example, a magnetic component can also be provided at a position on the side of the laser source opposite to the side from which the laser is emitted. In this case, by using magnetic force to adjust the orientation of the magnetic component provided in the laser source (i.e., the orientation in the circumferential direction centered on the axial direction of the light irradiation device), it is easy to properly control the irradiation direction of the laser.

[0039] In addition, the light irradiation device may also include a light emitting component at the front end portion that emits light using wireless power supply to indicate the position of the front end portion. At least a portion of the light emitting component may also be composed of a magnetic component. In this case, not only can the position of the front end portion of the light irradiation device be indicated by making the light emitting component emit light, but at least one of the position and direction of the front end portion can also be guided by making the light emitting component generate a magnetic force. In addition, the magnetic component can also serve as the aforementioned position detection component. In this case, multiple useful functions are given to the light irradiation device while suppressing an increase in the number of parts.

[0040] The laser source may also emit a laser with a wavelength of 300 nm or more and 2000 nm or less. More preferably, the laser source may also emit a laser with a wavelength of 600 nm or more and 1000 nm or less. In this case, by using the light irradiation device disclosed in the present invention for the treatment of diseases using photosensitive substances, it is easy to appropriately obtain the therapeutic effect.

[0041] The light irradiation system disclosed in the present invention comprises a catheter and a light irradiation device. The catheter is formed in the shape of a long tube and is flexible. The light irradiation device is used by being inserted into the inner cavity of the catheter and is flexible in the same manner as the catheter. The light irradiation device comprises a laser source at the front end portion that emits laser light of a predetermined wavelength band. The laser source emits laser light in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction of the light irradiation device. A light-transmitting portion is formed on at least a portion of the side surface on the front end side of the catheter so that the laser light emitted by the laser source of the light irradiation device is transmitted to the outside of the catheter.

[0042] The light irradiation system disclosed in the present invention can directly irradiate the laser light emitted from the light source to a specific position of the organism through the light transmission part of the catheter from the light source provided at the front end without passing through the light transmission component (such as an optical fiber, etc.). Therefore, various problems (such as at least one of the problem of light leakage in the middle of the light transmission component and the problem of light characteristics changing during the light transmission process) generated when the light transmission component is used are appropriately suppressed. Furthermore, the laser source emits the laser light from the front end of the light irradiation device in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction. The laser light is irradiated to the outside through the light transmission part of the catheter. Therefore, the light irradiation system disclosed in the present invention can selectively irradiate the laser light emitted from the laser source to a specific position of the organism. As a result, it is also difficult to produce various adverse conditions (such as the generation of side effects, etc.) caused by irradiating the light to an unexpected position. Therefore, it is easy to irradiate the light to a specific position in the lumen of the organism more efficiently and appropriately. In addition, with respect to the structure of the light irradiation device used in the light irradiation system, at least any one of the multiple structures of the aforementioned light irradiation device can be adopted.

[0043] The portion of the catheter at least close to the front end of the laser source of the light irradiation device may also be formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of 0.1 W / m·K or more. In this case, for example, the laser source is easily cooled by blood flow or saline. Therefore, the possibility of a malfunction in the laser source due to the heat generated by the emitted laser light is reduced. As a result, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately.

[0044] Alternatively, a cooling fluid may flow into the inner cavity of the catheter while the light irradiation device is inserted into the catheter. In this case, the cooling fluid can appropriately suppress adverse conditions (e.g., failure of the laser source, etc.) caused by the temperature rise of the front end portion caused by the laser source.

[0045] The catheter may also be provided with a plurality of temperature sensors. The temperature measurement position of each of the plurality of temperature sensors may also be arranged at each of the plurality of positions in the catheter. In this case, useful information may be obtained based on the detection results of the temperature at each of the plurality of measurement positions. For example, the direction of the irradiation laser may also be confirmed by confirming which of the plurality of measurement positions has a higher temperature than the other measurement positions. In addition, the medical practitioner may also improve the accuracy of the treatment by more accurately grasping the temperature at each measurement position.

[0046] The catheter may also include wiring extending from the base end side to the front end side. At least one of the wirings may also be arranged in a spiral shape in the catheter. By arranging the wiring in a spiral shape, it is easy to properly ensure the rigidity of the catheter in a long tube shape compared to the case where the wiring is arranged straight along the axial direction. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment is easy to be further improved.

[0047] In addition, the wiring arranged in a spiral shape can be appropriately selected. For example, the wiring of the temperature sensor (such as a thermocouple, etc.) can also be arranged in a spiral shape. In addition, when the measurement positions (measurement points) of multiple temperature sensors are arranged on the catheter, the measurement position of the temperature sensor can also be arranged at each of the multiple positions of the wiring arranged in a spiral shape. In this case, the measurement positions of multiple temperature sensors can be easily and appropriately arranged in each direction of the axial direction and the circumferential direction of the elongated catheter.

[0048] In addition, at least one of the wirings may include a material that does not transmit radiation. In this case, the position of the long catheter can be easily and appropriately grasped by radiographic imaging. In addition, when the wiring that does not transmit radiation is arranged in a spiral shape, it is easier to grasp the position of the catheter.

[0049] The catheter may also be provided with a catheter side marking portion having a non-radioactive line at a position close to the light-transmitting portion. In this case, when a medical practitioner (e.g., a doctor, etc.) uses radiation (e.g., X-rays, etc.) to photograph the inside of a living body and simultaneously irradiates a laser to the living body tissue through a light irradiation device, the laser can be appropriately irradiated from the light-transmitting portion to the outside by aligning the position of the laser source of the light irradiation device with the position of the catheter side marking portion displayed in the photographed image. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment is easily further improved.

[0050] However, the catheter-side marker may be omitted. For example, when the entire area near the distal end of the catheter is formed of a material that transmits laser light, the emission direction of the laser light from the laser source can be easily adjusted even without providing the catheter-side marker.

[0051] The catheter may also be provided with a small part at the front end of the catheter connected to the front end side. A through hole may be formed in the small part at the front end of the catheter with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the light irradiation device and extending along the axial direction of the catheter. At least a portion of the small part at the front end of the catheter may also be formed of a material that is not radiopaque. In this case, a medical practitioner (such as a doctor) can configure the position of the catheter at an appropriate position by understanding the position of the small part at the front end displayed in an image captured using radiation. Therefore, the accuracy of the treatment can be further improved.

[0052] The light-transmitting portion in the catheter may also be formed at a position in the axial direction of the catheter where the laser source of the light-irradiating portion is arranged when the front end of the light-irradiating device is in contact with the front end of the inner cavity of the catheter. In this case, as long as the light-irradiating device is pushed in until it contacts the front end of the inner cavity of the catheter, the position of the laser source in the axial direction and the position of the light-transmitting portion are automatically consistent. Therefore, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Figure 1 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the light irradiation system 1 in a state where the light irradiation device 2 and the conduit 3 are separated. Figure 2 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the light irradiation system 1 in a state where the light irradiation device 2 is attached to the guide tube 3 (in use state). Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the front end portion of the light irradiation system 1 in FIG. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Sectional view along line AA. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view along line BB. Figure 61 is a diagram showing an example of a catheter-side marking portion 332A provided in the catheter 3 . Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing an example of a catheter-side marking portion 332A provided in the catheter 3 . Figure 8 It is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the front end portion of the light irradiation system 1 according to the first modified example. Fig. 9 It is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the front end portion of the light irradiation system 1 according to the second modified example. Fig.10 It is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the front end portion of the light irradiation device 2 according to the third modified example. Fig.11 It is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the distal end portion of the catheter 3 according to the fourth modification. Fig.12 It is a figure which shows the result of the 1st evaluation test. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Hereinafter, typical embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The light irradiation system 1 of the present embodiment is used by being inserted into the lumen of a living body (for example, at least one of a blood vessel, a lymph gland, a urethra, a respiratory tract, a digestive organ, a secretory gland, and a reproductive organ). The light irradiation system 1 irradiates light (in the present embodiment, laser) to the living body tissue while being inserted into the lumen of the living body. The light irradiation system can be used, for example, in at least one of the therapies such as PDT (Photodynamic Therapy: photodynamic therapy) and NIR-PIT (Near-infraredphotoimmunotherapy: near-infrared photoimmunotherapy).

[0055] The light irradiation system 1 of this embodiment includes a light irradiation device 2 and a catheter 3. When the light irradiation system 1 is used, the catheter 3 is first inserted into the lumen of the living body. Then, the light irradiation device 2 is inserted into the lumen 311 of the catheter 3 which is in the shape of a long tube. When the insertion is completed, light is irradiated from the light irradiation device 2 to the living body tissue. However, it is also possible to use only the light irradiation device 2 without using the catheter 3.

[0056] exist Figures 1 to 3 , Figures 8 to 11 In the figure, mutually orthogonal XY axes are illustrated. In these drawings, the lower side (+X direction) of the drawings is set as the "front end side", the upper side (-X direction) of the drawings is set as the "base end side", the left side (+Y direction) of the drawings is set as the "left side", and the right side (-Y direction) of the drawings is set as the "right side". The light irradiation system 1, the light irradiation device 2, and the catheter 3 are inserted into the lumen of the biological body from the front end side. The base end side is operated by a medical practitioner (such as a doctor, etc.).

[0057] (Light irradiation equipment) Reference Figures 1 to 5 The light irradiation device 2 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 As shown, the shape of the light irradiation device 2 is a long strip. The light irradiation device 2 includes a connector 201, a column 210, and a small front end component 220. The connector 201 is located at the base end side of the light irradiation device 2 and is grasped by the operator. The connector 201 includes a pair of blades 202 and a connecting portion 203. The connecting portion 203 is a roughly cylindrical component. The blades 202 are connected to the base end of the connecting portion 203. The column 210 is connected to the front end of the connecting portion 203. In addition, the blades 202 and the connecting portion 203 can also be formed integrally.

[0058] Ideally, the column 210 has anti-thrombotic properties, flexibility, and biocompatibility. As for the material of the column 210, at least any one of a resin material and a metal material can be used. As for the resin material, for example, polyamide resin, polyolefin resin, polyester resin, polyurethane resin, silicone resin, and fluororesin can be used. As for the metal material, for example, stainless steel such as SUS304, nickel-titanium alloy, cobalt-chromium alloy, and tungsten steel can be used. In addition, a combination of multiple materials can also be used to form the column 210.

[0059] The column 210 is a long strip-shaped component extending along the axis O2. Various wirings (e.g., wirings 231A, 231B, etc. described later) are arranged inside the column 210. The front end widget 220 is connected to the front end of the column 210. The front end widget 220 is substantially cylindrical. The outer diameter of the front end widget 220 is substantially the same as the outer diameter Φ1 of the column 210.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 Next, the configuration of the front end portion of the light irradiation device 2 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the front end of the light irradiation system 1 in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the light irradiation device 2 has a small laser source 230 (230A, 230B) at the front end portion that emits laser light of a predetermined wavelength band. The laser source 230 is contained inside a long column 210 (which can also be expressed as a "device body"). However, the fixing method of the laser source 230 can also be changed. For example, the column can also be formed in the shape of a long tube with a lumen inside. In this case, the laser source 230 (230A, 230B) can also be fixed to the inner wall of the lumen of the column.

[0061] The laser light source 230 (230A, 230B) is radiated in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction (direction of the axis O2) of the light irradiation device 2 (in the direction of the axis O2). Figure 3 In the example shown, laser light is emitted in the direction of the arrow that intersects perpendicularly with respect to the axis O2. Therefore, the light irradiation device 2 can directly irradiate light from the laser source 230 provided at the front end to a specific position of the organism without passing through an optical transmission component such as an optical fiber. Therefore, the occurrence of various problems that occur when using an optical transmission component (for example, at least one of the problem of light leakage / attenuation in the middle of the optical transmission component and the problem of changes in the characteristics of light during the transmission of light) is appropriately suppressed. In addition, the laser source 230 emits laser light from the front end of the light irradiation device 2 in a direction that intersects with the direction of the axis O2. Compared with a light emitting diode, the laser source 230 is easy to emit light that is difficult to diverge and has high directivity. Therefore, the light irradiation device 2 of this embodiment can selectively irradiate the laser light emitted from the laser source 230 to a specific position of the organism. As a result, it is also difficult to produce various adverse conditions (for example, the generation of side effects, etc.) caused by irradiating light to an unexpected position. Furthermore, the laser source 230 has the property of being able to irradiate light of a wavelength having a narrower spectral width than a light emitting diode. Therefore, by arranging the laser source 230 at the front end of the light irradiation device 2, it is also possible to suppress the generation of various adverse conditions (for example, at least one of a decrease in irradiation efficiency and unexpected tissue changes) caused by irradiating the tissue with a wavelength different from the wavelength required for treatment (for example, the excitation wavelength of the photosensitive substance, etc.). Therefore, it is easy to irradiate light more efficiently and appropriately to a specific position in the lumen of the biological body.

[0062] As for the laser source 230, a surface emitting laser that irradiates laser light in a direction perpendicular to the substrate can be used. By using a surface emitting laser, a light irradiation device 2 is formed that can properly emit laser light with low power and has high resistance to temperature changes. Furthermore, the surface emitting laser can emit laser light in a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface, so it is easy to more accurately adjust the irradiation position of the laser light.

[0063] In addition, regarding the laser source 230, a semiconductor laser, which is a circuit element manufactured using semiconductor as a raw material, can also be used. Semiconductor lasers are easy to be miniaturized, so even with respect to the light irradiation device 2 with a small diameter, it is easy to properly install. In addition, semiconductor lasers can emit highly directional lasers with consistent phases with a small power. Therefore, the treatment effect is also easy to be stable.

[0064] like Figure 3As shown, the light irradiation device 2 of this embodiment has a plurality of laser sources 230A and 230B at the front end. By providing a plurality of laser sources 230A and 230B in one light irradiation device 2, the degree of freedom of laser irradiation (for example, the ease of adjusting at least one of the irradiation area, irradiation density, irradiation direction, etc. of the laser) is improved compared with the case where only one laser source is provided. As a result, it is easier to obtain an appropriate treatment effect.

[0065] The laser source 230A is connected to the control unit 5 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ) is connected to a wiring 231A extending from the control unit 5. In addition, the laser source 230B is also connected to a wiring 231B extending from the control unit 5. Power is supplied to the laser sources 230A and 230B via the wirings 231A and 231B. The wirings 231A and 231B are arranged along the long axis direction (the direction of the axis O2) of the light irradiation device 2. However, as will be described in detail later, the wirings 231A and 231B can also be arranged in a spiral shape or the like. In the present embodiment, the wirings 231A and 231B extend from the control unit 5 and are connected to the laser sources 230A and 230B through the interior of the light irradiation device 2. Figures 1 to 3 In FIG. 1 , wirings 231A and 231B are indicated by dotted lines. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The cross-sectional view along the AA line in the figure. Figure 3 , a state where a wiring 231A is connected to a laser light source 230A is shown. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The cross-sectional view along the BB line in the figure. Figure 5 , a cross section of two wirings 231A and 231B passing through the interior of the pillar 210 is shown.

[0066] In this embodiment, the emission of laser light from at least a portion of the plurality of laser sources 230A and 230B can be controlled independently from the other laser sources. That is, the control unit 5 can independently control the emission of laser light from the two laser sources 230A and 230B. As a result, the degree of freedom of laser irradiation is further improved.

[0067] Specifically, in this embodiment, if Figure 3 As shown, the setting directions of the laser sources 230A and 230B are determined in such a way that the irradiation directions of the lasers of the laser sources 230A and 230B are different from each other. In detail, the irradiation surface of the laser of the laser source 230A faces the +Y direction, and the irradiation surface of the laser of the laser source 230B faces the -Y direction. Therefore, by independently controlling the emission of the lasers of the two laser sources 230A and 230B by the control unit 5, the emission direction of the lasers can be appropriately changed. Therefore, the degree of freedom of treatment is further improved.

[0068] In this embodiment, the plurality of laser sources 230A and 230B emit lasers of the same wavelength band. Therefore, the light irradiation device 2 can irradiate the lasers of the same wavelength band to a specific part with a higher degree of freedom (i.e., the irradiation direction of the laser can be selected to be an appropriate direction). As a result, it is easy to obtain an appropriate treatment effect.

[0069] The laser source 230 may also emit a laser with a wavelength of 300 nm or more and 2000 nm or less. More preferably, the laser source 230 may also emit a laser with a wavelength of 600 nm or more and 1000 nm or less. In this case, by using the light irradiation device 2 for the treatment of a disease using a photosensitive substance, it is easy to appropriately obtain a therapeutic effect. In addition, in the present embodiment, the central wavelength of the laser emitted by the laser source 230 is set to about 690 nm.

[0070] In this embodiment, at least the portion of the long column (device body) 210 that contains the laser sources 230A and 230B is formed of a material that transmits the laser light emitted by the laser sources 230A and 230B. By enclosing the laser sources 230A and 230B inside the column 210, the laser sources 230A and 230B are kept in the column 210 in a stable state compared to the case where the laser sources 230A and 230B are exposed to the outside from the column 210, and it is also difficult to cause the laser sources 230A and 230B to fail. Furthermore, the laser light emitted from the laser sources 230A and 230B passes through the material of the column 210 and is appropriately irradiated to the living tissue. Therefore, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately.

[0071] In addition, in the present embodiment, the entire column 210 is formed of a material that transmits the laser light emitted by the laser light sources 230A and 230B. Therefore, compared with the case where only a portion of the column 210 is formed of a material that transmits the laser light, the structure of the column 210 is simplified, and the possibility of the laser light being intercepted by a portion of the column 210 is also reduced.

[0072] The inventors of the present application have newly discovered an ideal range of the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser sources 230A and 230B at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside by performing the first evaluation test and the second evaluation test (described later). In the present embodiment, the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser sources 230A and 230B at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is set to 80 W / cm based on the results of the evaluation test. 2 Above and 1600W / cm 2 In this case, it is easy to properly obtain the therapeutic effect formed by irradiating the photosensitive substance with laser light. In addition, the light irradiation density at the time of irradiation from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is more preferably 300W / cm 2Above 1300W / cm 2 Below, more preferably 600W / cm 2 Above 1300W / cm 2 As an example, in this embodiment, the light irradiation density at the time of irradiation from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is set to about 1273 W / cm 2 .

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown in the figure, the light irradiation device 2 of this embodiment is provided with light source position marking parts 232A and 232B having non-radioactive lines at the front end part where the laser sources 230A and 230B are provided. Therefore, when a medical practitioner (e.g., an operator) uses radiation (e.g., X-rays, etc.) to shoot inside a living body and irradiates the laser to the living body tissue through the light irradiation device 2, the irradiation position of the laser can be appropriately adjusted by confirming the position of the light source position marking parts 232A and 232B displayed in the captured image. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment can be further improved.

[0074] In detail, in the present embodiment, at least a part of the components of the laser sources 230A and 230B is formed by a material having a non-radioactive material, so that the laser sources 230A and 230B themselves function as light source position marking parts 232A and 232B. Therefore, even if the marking part is not provided separately from the laser sources 230A and 230B, the position of the laser sources 230A and 230B can be properly grasped by radiographic photography. Furthermore, the laser sources 230A and 230B themselves function as light source position marking parts 232A and 232B, so that the medical practitioner can more correctly grasp the position of the laser sources 230A and 230B. Therefore, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately. As an example, in the present embodiment, each laser source of the laser sources 230A and 230B is set to a multilayer structure, and a part of the multilayer is formed by a material having a non-radioactive material. Therefore, it is easier to correctly grasp the position of the laser sources 230A and 230B.

[0075] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, at least a portion (in the present embodiment, the entirety of the front end small component 220) provided at the front end of the light irradiation device 2 is formed of a material having non-radioactive properties, thereby functioning as a marking portion. Therefore, even without providing a separate marking portion, the position of the front end of the light irradiation device 2 can be properly grasped.

[0076] like Figure 3As shown in the figures, the light irradiation device 2 has a light sensor 240 (240A, 240B) at the front end. Therefore, the state of light at the front end of the light irradiation device 2 is directly detected by the light sensor 240 at the front end. That is, in the light detected by the light sensor 240, it is difficult to produce changes in the characteristics of the light that may occur during the transmission process. Therefore, it is easy to detect the state of light more accurately. In addition, in the present embodiment, a light sensor 240A for detecting light emitted by the laser source 230A (including reflected light, etc.) and a light sensor 240B for detecting light emitted by the laser source 230B are additionally provided. Therefore, the state of light for each of the two laser sources 230A and 230B is properly grasped. By providing a plurality of light sensors 240, it is also possible to confirm the direction of the actual irradiated light, etc. In addition, in order to simplify the drawings, the illustration of the wiring extending from the light sensor 240 is omitted.

[0077] like Figure 3 As shown in the figures, in the front end portion of the light irradiation device 2 of the present embodiment, a position detection component 250 for detecting the position of the front end portion of the light irradiation device 2 in the lumen of a living body is provided. Therefore, by detecting the position of the position detection component 250, it is easy to properly grasp the position of the front end portion of the light irradiation device 2 in the lumen of a living body. In addition, with respect to the position detection component 250, various components for detecting the position in the lumen can be adopted. For example, in the case where a small ultrasonic oscillator is used as the position detection component 250, the position of the position detection component 250 is detected by using an ultrasonic diagnostic device or the like. In addition, in the case where a magnetic component is used as the position detection component 250, the position of the position detection component 250 is detected by using a magnetic sensor or the like.

[0078] In addition, the light irradiation device 2 may also include a magnetic component (e.g., a position detection component 250, etc.) at the front end. The magnetic component may also function as a guide component that guides at least one of the position and direction of the front end of the light irradiation device 2 in the lumen of the living body by using the magnetic force generated by being placed in the magnetic field. In this case, when the light irradiation device 2 is inserted into the lumen of the living body, at least one of the position and direction of the front end is properly guided.

[0079] Furthermore, by using the position detection member 250 as a magnetic member, the position detection member 250 can also function as a guide member. In this case, multiple useful functions are imparted to the light irradiation device 2 while suppressing an increase in the number of parts.

[0080] In addition, magnetic components 232A and 232B may be provided at least in part of the laser sources 230A and 230B (in the present embodiment, the part of the laser sources 230A and 230B located on the side opposite to the side from which the laser is emitted). In this case, by adjusting the orientation of the magnetic components 232A and 232B provided on the laser sources 230A and 230B using magnetic force (i.e., the orientation in the circumferential direction centered on the direction of the axis O2 of the light irradiation device 2), it is easy to properly control the irradiation direction of the laser. In addition, the light source position marking parts 232A and 232B may be used in conjunction with the magnetic components, or the magnetic components may be provided separately from the light source position marking parts 232A and 232B.

[0081] In addition, the light irradiation device 2 may also have a light emitting component at the front end portion that emits light using wireless power supply to indicate the position of the front end portion. For example, the aforementioned position detection component 250 may also be set as a light emitting component. In the case of providing a light emitting component, at least a portion of the light emitting component may also be composed of a magnetic component. In this case, not only can the position of the front end portion of the light irradiation device be indicated by making the light emitting component emit light, but at least one of the position and direction of the front end portion can also be guided by making the light emitting component generate a magnetic force.

[0082] (catheter) Reference Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 The catheter 3 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 As shown, the shape of the catheter 3 is a long tube shape. The catheter 3 includes a connector 301, a column 310, and a small front end component 320. The connector 301 is located at the base end side of the catheter 3 and is grasped by the operator. The connector 301 includes a pair of blades 302 and a connecting portion 303. The connecting portion 303 is a roughly cylindrical component. The blades 302 are connected to the base end of the connecting portion 303. The column 310 is connected to the front end of the connecting portion 303. In addition, the blades 302 and the connecting portion 303 can also be formed integrally.

[0083] The column 310 is similar to the column 210 of the light irradiation device 2, and ideally has anti-thrombotic properties, flexibility, and biocompatibility. Regarding the material of the column 310, the same material as that of the column 210 of the light irradiation device 2 can be used. The column 310 is a long tube-shaped component extending along the axis O3. The column 310 of the present embodiment is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape with both the front end and the base end open. The lumen 311 inside the column 310 functions as a guide wire lumen for inserting and penetrating the guide wire relative to the catheter 3 when the catheter 3 is transmitted. The lumen 311 functions as a device lumen for inserting and penetrating the light irradiation device 2 relative to the catheter 3 after the catheter 3 is transmitted.

[0084] The front end small component 320 is connected to the front end of the column 310. In order to allow the catheter 3 to smoothly move in the lumen of the biological body, the front end small component 320 has an outer shape that is reduced in diameter from the base end side to the front end side. A through hole 321 is formed in the approximate center of the front end small component 320 and passes through in the direction of the axis O2. Figure 3 As shown, the inner diameter Φ2 of the through hole 321 is smaller than the inner diameter Φ3 of the lumen 311 of the column 310, and smaller than the outer diameter Φ1 of the column 210 and the front small component 220 of the light irradiation device 2. In addition, the outer diameter Φ1 of the column 210 and the front small component 220 of the light irradiation device 2 is smaller than the inner diameter Φ3 of the lumen 311 of the catheter 3. Therefore, the light irradiation device 2 moves along the axis O2 in the lumen 311 of the catheter 3. If the light irradiation device 2 is sufficiently advanced in the lumen 311 of the catheter 3, the front small component 220 of the light irradiation device 2 contacts the front small component 320 of the catheter 3, thereby positioning the light irradiation device 2 with respect to the catheter 3 in the directions of the axes O2 and O3.

[0085] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The structure of the front end portion of the catheter 3 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 As shown, light transmission parts 330A and 330B are provided on the front end side surface (in this embodiment, a part of the front end side surface) of the column 310 in the catheter 3, which transmit the laser light emitted by the laser sources 230A and 230B of the light irradiation device 2 to the outside. Therefore, the light irradiation system 1 of this embodiment can selectively irradiate the laser light emitted in the direction intersecting the axes O2 and O3 to a specific position of the biological body through the laser sources 230A and 230B of the light irradiation device 2.

[0086] In addition, in the present embodiment, the portion of the column 310 in the catheter 3 that transmits the laser light emitted by the laser sources 230A and 230B is partially formed of a material that transmits the laser light, thereby providing light-transmitting portions 330A and 330B. However, the configuration of the light-transmitting portion may be changed. For example, the entire material of the column 310 itself or the front end of the column 310 may be set to a material that transmits the laser light, thereby providing a light-transmitting portion in the catheter.

[0087] In the column 310 of the catheter 3, catheter side marking parts 332A and 332B having non-radioactive lines are provided at positions close to the light-transmitting parts 330A and 330B. Therefore, when a medical practitioner (e.g., an operator) uses radiation (e.g., X-rays) to photograph the inside of a living body and irradiates the living body tissue with laser light through the light irradiation device 2, the positions of the laser sources 230A and 230B of the light irradiation device 2 are aligned with the positions of the catheter side marking parts 332A and 332B displayed in the photographed image, so that the laser light can be appropriately irradiated from the light-transmitting parts 330A and 330B to the outside. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment is easily further improved.

[0088] In addition, the specific configuration of the catheter-side marking portions 332A and 332B can be appropriately selected. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the catheter marker 332A may be formed so as to surround the periphery of the light-transmitting portion 330A. In this case, the medical practitioner can confirm the portion surrounded by the catheter marker 332A through the radiographic image, thereby being able to more accurately grasp the position of the light-transmitting portion 330A. In addition, the shape of the catheter-side markers 332A and 332B surrounding the light-transmitting portions 330A and 330B may be a shape other than a rectangle (e.g., a ring shape, etc.).

[0089] In addition, if Figure 7 As shown, the catheter marker 332A may be provided adjacent to each of the front end side and the base end side of the light-transmitting portion 330A. In this case, the medical practitioner can properly grasp the position of the light-transmitting portion 330A in the direction along the axes O2 and O3. In addition, the catheter-side markers 332A and 332B may be provided only on one of the front end side and the base end side of the light-transmitting portion 330A.

[0090] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , in this embodiment, at least a portion (in this embodiment, the entirety of the front end small component 320) provided at the front end of the column 310 of the catheter 3 is formed of a material having non-radioactive properties, thereby functioning as a marking portion. Therefore, the position of the front end of the catheter 3 can be properly grasped.

[0091] In addition, the catheter 3 may also include a magnetic component (e.g., a small front part 320, etc.) at the front end. The magnetic component may also function as a guide component that guides at least one of the position and direction of the front end of the catheter 3 in the lumen of the living body by using the magnetic force generated by being placed in the magnetic field. In this case, when the catheter 3 is inserted into the lumen of the living body, at least one of the position and direction of the front end is appropriately guided.

[0092] Furthermore, the tip small component 320 may be a magnetic component so that the tip small component 320 also functions as a guide component. In this case, multiple useful functions are imparted to the catheter 3 while suppressing an increase in the number of components.

[0093] In the column 310 of the catheter 3, at least the portion of the front end side to which the laser sources 230A and 230B of the light irradiation device 2 are close when irradiating the laser (in this embodiment, the entire column 310) is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of 0.1 W / m·K or more. Therefore, for example, the laser sources 230A and 230B are easily cooled by the blood flow or physiological saline. Therefore, the possibility of the laser sources 230A and 230B generating a malfunction due to the heat generated by the laser sources 230A and 230B by emitting the laser is reduced. Therefore, it is easy to perform treatment more appropriately.

[0094] (How to use) An example of a method of using the light irradiation system 1 of the present embodiment is described. First, the operator inserts a guide wire (not shown) into a biological lumen. Next, the operator inserts the base end side of the guide wire into the lumen 311 from the through hole 321 of the front end widget 320 of the catheter 3, so that the base end side of the guide wire protrudes toward the base end side of the connector 301. The operator advances the catheter 3 along the guide wire to move at least one of the light-transmitting portions 330A and 330B of the catheter 3 to the target site of light irradiation. In addition, when moving the catheter 3 in the biological lumen, the operator uses radioactive images to confirm the positions of the catheter side marking portions 332A and 332B, so that the catheter 3 can be properly moved to the target site. Thereafter, the operator removes the guide wire from the catheter 3.

[0095] The operator inserts the light irradiation device 2 from the base end opening of the connector 301 of the catheter 3, and pushes the light irradiation device 2 along the lumen 311 of the catheter 3 in the biological lumen. If the light irradiation device 2 is sufficiently pushed into the lumen 311 of the catheter 3, the front end small part 220 of the light irradiation device 2 contacts the front end small part 320 of the catheter 3. Figure 3 As shown, the light transmission parts 330A and 330B in the catheter 3 are formed in the direction of the axes O2 and O3, and the positions of the laser sources 230A and 230B are arranged in a state where the front end small part 220 of the light irradiation device 2 is in contact with the front end of the inner cavity of the catheter 3 (the front end small part 320 of the catheter 3). Therefore, as long as the light irradiation device 2 is pushed into contact with the front end small part 320 of the catheter 3, the positions of the laser sources 230A and 230B in the direction of the axes O2 and O3 and the positions of the light transmission parts 330A and 330B are automatically consistent. In this state, by emitting laser light from the laser sources 230A and 230B, the laser light is selectively irradiated to the target part.

[0096] The operator can flow a cooling fluid into the lumen 311 of the catheter 3 while the light irradiation device 2 is inserted into the catheter 3. Therefore, the cooling fluid can appropriately suppress adverse conditions (e.g., failure of the laser sources 230A, 230B, etc.) caused by the temperature rise of the front end portion caused by the laser sources 230A, 230B.

[0097] (Variation Example) The technology disclosed in the above embodiment is just an example. Therefore, the technology illustrated in the above embodiment can also be changed. Figures 8 to 11 A part of the modified example of the above-mentioned embodiment will be described. Figure 8 The first variant shown in FIG. Fig. 9 The second variant shown, Fig.10 The third variant shown and Fig.11 The structure of a part of the fourth modified example shown can adopt the same structure as the aforementioned embodiment. Therefore, for the parts of the structures of the first to fourth modified examples that can adopt the same structure as the aforementioned embodiment, the same numbers as the aforementioned embodiment are marked, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0098] exist Figure 8 In the light irradiation system 1 of the first variant shown, the plurality of laser sources 230C and 230D emit lasers of different wavelength bands. In addition, the setting directions of the laser sources 230C and 230D are determined in such a way that the irradiation directions of the lasers of the plurality of laser sources 230C and 230D are parallel. The control unit 5 can independently control the emission of the lasers by the two laser sources 230C and 230D. Therefore, the light irradiation system 1 of the first variant can selectively emit lasers of different wavelength bands to the biological tissue.

[0099] In addition, the configuration of the light irradiation system 1 of the first modified example can be further modified. Figure 8 In the light irradiation system 1 shown, the emission of lasers using multiple laser sources 230C and 230D can also be centrally controlled. In addition, multiple laser sources 230C and 230D can also emit lasers of the same wavelength band. In this case, the irradiation area of ​​the laser is expanded compared to the case of using only one laser source.

[0100] Fig. 9The light irradiation device 2 of the second modified example shown in the figure has one laser source 230E. As described above, the number of laser sources provided in the light irradiation device 2 may be one or more. In addition, in the second modified example, a marking portion 232E having a non-radioactive line is provided at each of the front end side and the base end side of the position where the laser light from the laser source 230E is emitted to the outside in the device body 209 of the light irradiation device 2. As described above, the marking portion 232E may also be provided separately from the laser source 230E.

[0101] The light irradiation device 2 of the second modified example is provided with a light detection transmission component 241 that transmits light incident to the front end (in this embodiment, near the position where the laser is emitted to the outside) to a light sensor (not shown). The light detection transmission component 241 of this embodiment is an optical fiber, which is inserted through the inside of the device body 209 from the side to the base end side of the device body 209 and connected to the light sensor. In the second modified example, the state of light at the front end is appropriately detected while suppressing the structure of the front end of the light irradiation device 2 from becoming complicated due to the light sensor.

[0102] The light irradiation device 2 of the second modified example includes a temperature sensor 260 at the front end portion. Therefore, for example, at least one of the temperature rise caused by driving the laser light source 230E provided at the front end portion and the temperature rise caused by emitting laser light to the living tissue can be appropriately grasped.

[0103] In the catheter 3 of the second modified example, a light-transmitting portion 330E (also referred to as a "laser-transmitting window") is formed by opening a portion of the column 310 that transmits the laser light emitted by the laser source 230E. As described above, the method of forming the light-transmitting portion is not limited to the method of using a material that transmits laser light.

[0104] Fig.10 The light irradiation device 2 of the third variant shown has multiple temperature sensors 260 (260A, 260B, 260C). The measurement position of each of the multiple temperature sensors 260 (in this embodiment, the measurement points shown by 260A, 260B, 260C) is arranged at each of the multiple parts in the front end of the light irradiation device 2. Therefore, useful information can be obtained based on the detection results of the temperature at each of the multiple measurement positions. For example, it is also possible to confirm the direction of the irradiation laser by confirming which of the multiple measurement positions has a higher temperature than the other measurement positions. In addition, medical practitioners can also improve the accuracy of treatment by more accurately grasping the temperature at each measurement position.

[0105] In the light irradiation device 2 of the third variant, the wiring of the temperature sensor 260 is arranged in a spiral shape in the main body of the light irradiation device 2. Therefore, compared with the case where the wiring is arranged straight along the axial direction, it is easy to properly ensure the rigidity of the light irradiation device 2 which is a long strip. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment is easy to be further improved. As an example, in this embodiment, a long strip thermocouple with a plurality of measurement points is used as the temperature sensor 260. The wiring of the long strip temperature sensor 260 is arranged in a spiral shape, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the light irradiation device 2.

[0106] In the light irradiation device 2 of the third modification, the wiring of the temperature sensor 260 includes a material having non-radioactive material. Therefore, by radiographic imaging, it is easy to properly grasp the position of the long light irradiation device 2. In addition, in the third modification, the wiring of the temperature sensor 260 having non-radioactive material is arranged in a spiral shape, so that it is easier to grasp the position of the light irradiation device 2.

[0107] Fig.11 The catheter 3 of the fourth modified example shown is equipped with a plurality of temperature sensors 360 (360A, 360B, 360C, 360D, 360E). The measurement position of each of the plurality of temperature sensors 360 (in this embodiment, the measurement points indicated by 360A, 360B, 360C, 360D, 360E) is arranged at each of the plurality of positions in the front end portion of the catheter 3. Therefore, useful information can be obtained based on the detection result of the temperature at each of the plurality of measurement positions. For example, it is also possible to confirm the direction of the irradiation laser by confirming which of the plurality of measurement positions has a higher temperature than the other measurement positions. In addition, the medical practitioner can also improve the accuracy of the treatment by more accurately grasping the temperature at each measurement position.

[0108] In the catheter 3 of the fourth modified example, the wiring of the temperature sensor 360 is arranged in a spiral shape in the column 310 of the catheter 3. Therefore, it is easy to properly ensure the rigidity of the catheter 3 which is in a long strip shape, compared with the case where the wiring is arranged straight along the axial direction. Therefore, the accuracy of treatment is easy to be further improved. As an example, in this embodiment, a long strip thermocouple with a plurality of measurement points is used as the temperature sensor 360. The wiring of the long strip temperature sensor 360 is arranged in a spiral shape, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the catheter 3.

[0109] In the catheter 3 of the fourth modification, the wiring of the temperature sensor 360 is made of a material having no radiopaque properties. Therefore, it is easy to properly grasp the position of the long catheter 3 by radiographic imaging. In addition, in the fourth modification, the wiring of the temperature sensor 360 having no radiopaque properties is arranged in a spiral shape, so that it is easier to grasp the position of the catheter 3.

[0110] (First evaluation test) Reference Fig.12 The results of the first evaluation test for evaluating the lower limit of the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser source 230 at the moment when the laser light is emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside are described. In the first evaluation test, the inventor connected an optical fiber to the laser source and arranged a sensor for detecting the laser light along the emission direction of the laser light emitted from the front end of the optical fiber. Then, the inventor changed the state of the laser light in the optical path between the front end of the optical fiber and the sensor into (1) a "blank state" in which nothing is arranged, (2) a "carotid artery arrangement state" in which a pig's carotid artery is arranged, and (3) an "aorta arrangement state" in which a pig's aorta is arranged. In each state, the light intensity of the laser light is changed, and the detection result of the laser light by the sensor is confirmed at the same time. In (2) the "carotid artery arrangement state" and (3) the "aorta arrangement state", the detection result using the sensor is the detection result of the laser light that passes through the carotid artery or the aorta and reaches the sensor.

[0111] The core diameter of the fiber used in the first evaluation test was 400 μm (surface area was 0.001256 cm 2 ). Fig.12 The "blank state output" shown is roughly equal to the output of the laser emitted from the front end of the fiber. Therefore, by dividing the "blank state output" by the surface area of ​​the core material of the fiber, the light density of the laser emitted from the front end of the fiber is calculated. The laser source used in the first evaluation test is "MLL-III-690" manufactured by CNI Optoelectronics Technology. The sensor used in the first evaluation test is "S310C" manufactured by THORLABS. The lower limit value that the sensor used in the first evaluation test can detect is 10mW. In this sensor, there is also a case where an output of less than 10mW is detected, but the detection result of less than 10mW lacks reliability. Therefore, in the first evaluation test, when the detection result using the sensor becomes more than 10mW, it is determined that the laser that has penetrated the blood vessel is properly detected (that is, "detected").

[0112] like Fig.12 As shown, when the laser light intensity is set to 584.4W / cm 2 In the case of (2) "carotid artery configuration state" and (3) "aorta configuration state", sufficient output of 10 mW or more was detected. In addition, when the light intensity of the laser was set to 78.8 W / cm 2In the case of (2) "carotid configuration state", a sufficient output of 21.1 mW was detected, but in (3) "aorta configuration state", a sufficient output could not be detected. If the light intensity of the laser is set to 41.4 W / cm 2 Next, sufficient output is not detected in both (2) "carotid artery arrangement state" and (3) "aorta arrangement state".

[0113] According to the above results, when the laser light intensity is set to about 80W / cm 2 In the case of a thick blood vessel such as the aorta, the laser will not fully penetrate the blood vessel, and there is a possibility that the treatment effect will be difficult to obtain. However, in the case of a thin blood vessel such as the carotid artery, by setting the laser light density to about 80W / cm 2 Based on the above results, it can be said that it is ideal that the lower limit of the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser source 230 at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is set to 80 W / cm 2 In addition, the higher the output of the laser irradiated to the tissue, the more efficiently the treatment effect can be obtained. Therefore, it is more ideal that the lower limit of the light intensity at the time of irradiation from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is set to 300W / cm 2 Furthermore, if Fig.12 As shown in the figure, it can be seen that if the laser light intensity is set to 584.4W / cm 2 Therefore, it can be said that it is more ideal that the lower limit of the light intensity at the time of irradiation from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is set to 600W / cm 2 .

[0114] (Second evaluation test) The results of the second evaluation test for evaluating the upper limit of the light density of the laser light emitted from the laser source 230 at the moment of being emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside are described. In the second evaluation test, the inventor connected an optical fiber to the laser source and arranged a sensor for detecting the laser light along the emission direction of the laser light emitted from the front end of the optical fiber. Next, the inventor changed the state of the laser light in the optical path between the front end of the optical fiber and the sensor into (1) a "blank state" in which nothing is configured and (2) a "carotid artery configuration state" in which a pig's carotid artery is configured, and emitted the laser light from the front end of the optical fiber in each state. The inventor evaluated the upper limit of the light density at the moment of being emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside based on the light density when the carotid artery is burned in (2) the "carotid artery configuration state".

[0115] The core diameter of the fiber used in the second evaluation test was 400 μm (surface area was 0.001256 cm 2 ), NA is 0.39. As in the first evaluation test, the output of the laser detected by the sensor in the "blank state" is approximately equal to the output of the laser emitted from the front end of the fiber. Therefore, the light density of the laser emitted from the front end of the fiber is calculated by dividing the output detected in the "blank state" by the surface area of ​​the core material of the fiber. The laser source used in the second evaluation test is "Brix690-2500UHP" manufactured by Omicron. The sensor used in the second evaluation test is "S425C" manufactured by THORLABS.

[0116] First, the inventor set the output of the laser source to the maximum set output of 2500mW, and confirmed the output of the laser detected by the sensor in (1) the "blank state". As a result, the output detected varied between 1800mW and 2100mW. Next, the inventor set the output of the laser source to the maximum set output of 2500mW, and confirmed the output of the laser detected by the sensor in (2) the "carotid artery configuration state". As a result, the output of the laser that passed through the carotid artery and was detected by the sensor varied between 300mW and 350mW. Therefore, the output of the laser emitted from the front end of the fiber when 300mW was detected by the sensor in (2) the "carotid artery configuration state" was estimated to be about 1800mW. In addition, the output of the laser emitted from the front end of the fiber when 350mW was detected by the sensor was estimated to be about 2100mW. The laser was continuously emitted in (2) the "carotid artery configuration state". As a result, the carotid artery was not burned during the period when the detection result of the sensor was less than 350mW. However, when the sensor detected 350 mW, the blood vessel wall of the carotid artery was burned. In (2) "carotid artery arrangement state", when the sensor detected 350 mW, the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the fiber tip became about 1670 W / cm 2 .

[0117] According to the above results, the laser light density is set to 1670W / cm 2 However, if the laser light density is set to 1600W / cm 2 Based on the above results, it can be said that the upper limit of the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser source 230 at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is preferably set to 1600 W / cm 2 In order to further improve the safety during treatment (i.e., to further reduce the possibility of vascular wall damage), it is ideal that the upper limit of the light intensity at the time of irradiation from the light irradiation device 2 to the outside is set to 1300 W / cm2 .

[0118] It is also possible to adopt only a part of the configurations illustrated in the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications in the light irradiation system, the light irradiation device, or the catheter. In addition, it is also possible to combine multiple configurations shown in different embodiments. As mentioned above, it is also possible to use only the light irradiation device 2 alone without using the catheter 3. In addition, a flow path for a fluid that passes from the base end side to the front end side may be formed in the column 210 of the light irradiation device 2. In this case, by allowing the cooling fluid to flow in the flow path of the column 210, various adverse conditions caused by the temperature rise (for example, malfunctions caused by the laser light source 230 becoming high temperature, etc.) are appropriately suppressed.

Claims

1. A light irradiation device, which is a strip-shaped medical light irradiation device, characterized in that: A laser source for emitting laser light of a predetermined wavelength band is provided at the front end. The laser light source emits laser light in a direction intersecting with respect to a long axis direction of the light irradiation device.

2. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The front end portion is provided with a plurality of the laser light sources.

3. The light irradiation device according to claim 2, characterized in that The emission of laser light from at least a portion of the plurality of laser light sources can be controlled independently from the emission of laser light from the other laser light sources.

4. The light irradiation device according to claim 2, characterized in that The multiple laser sources emit lasers in the same wavelength band.

5. The light irradiation device according to claim 2, characterized in that Some of the plurality of laser light sources include a laser light source that emits laser light of a wavelength band different from that of the other laser light sources.

6. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The laser source is contained inside the long strip-shaped device body. At least a portion of the device body that includes the laser light source is formed of a material that transmits the laser light emitted by the laser light source.

7. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser source at the time of being emitted from the light irradiation device to the outside is 80 W / cm 2 Above and 1600W / cm 2 the following.

8. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The distal end portion where the laser light source is provided is provided with a marking portion having a non-radioactive line.

9. The light irradiation device according to claim 8, characterized in that At least a part of the laser light source is formed of a material that does not transmit radiation, so that the laser light source functions as the marking portion.

10. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The laser light source is a surface emitting laser that irradiates laser light in a direction perpendicular to the substrate.

11. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The laser light source is a semiconductor laser which is a circuit element manufactured using a semiconductor as a raw material.

12. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that A light detection transmission member for transmitting light incident on the tip portion to a light sensor or a light sensor provided at the tip portion is further provided.

13. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that It also has multiple temperature sensors. A position for measuring the temperature of each of the plurality of temperature sensors is arranged at each of a plurality of locations in the front end portion.

14. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that further comprising a wiring extending from the base end side to the front end portion, The wiring is arranged in a spiral shape.

15. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The distal end portion is further provided with a position detection unit for detecting the position of the distal end portion in the lumen of the living body.

16. The light irradiation device according to claim 1, characterized in that A magnetic member is further provided for guiding at least one of the position and direction of the distal end portion in a living body by utilizing a magnetic force generated by being placed in a magnetic field.

17. A light irradiation system, which is a light irradiation system for medical use, characterized in that: have: a catheter formed in a long tube shape; and A strip-shaped light irradiation device is inserted into the inner cavity of the catheter, The light irradiation device includes a laser source for emitting laser light of a predetermined wavelength band at the front end. The laser source emits laser light in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction of the light irradiation device, A light-transmitting portion that transmits laser light emitted from the laser light source included in the light irradiation device to the outside is formed in at least a portion of a distal end side surface of the catheter.

18. The light irradiation system according to claim 17, characterized in that: At least a portion of the catheter on the distal end side to which the laser light source of the light irradiation device is close is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of 0.1 W / m·K or more.

19. The light irradiation system according to claim 17, characterized in that: In a state where the light irradiation device is inserted into the catheter, a cooling fluid flows into the inner cavity of the catheter.

20. The light irradiation system according to claim 17, characterized in that: The catheter is also provided with a plurality of temperature sensors. A position for measuring the temperature of each of the plurality of temperature sensors is arranged at each of a plurality of locations in the catheter.

21. The light irradiation system according to claim 17, characterized in that: The catheter further includes wiring extending from the base end side to the front end side, The wiring is arranged in a spiral shape.

Images