Flexible endoscope

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of medical instruments, and provides a flexible endoscope which comprises a flexible insertion structure, an operation handle, a liquid supplementing unit and an image processing unit, the flexible insertion structure comprises an insertion tube, an image acquisition module and a light source, the image acquisition module and the light source are arranged in the insertion tube, and the image acquisition module comprises an image sensor and an objective lens. The objective lens is arranged at one end of the insertion tube; the operating handle is connected to one end of the flexible insertion structure; the liquid supplementing unit comprises a liquid supplementing sleeve, a liquid supplementing pipe and a conveying source, the liquid supplementing sleeve sleeves the end, away from the operating handle, of the insertion pipe, a liquid supplementing cavity is formed between the inner side wall of the liquid supplementing sleeve and the outer side wall of the insertion pipe, a liquid outlet channel is formed in the liquid supplementing sleeve, the liquid supplementing pipe is located in the insertion pipe, and one end of the liquid supplementing pipe communicates with the liquid supplementing cavity; the conveying source is used for conveying the lubricant in the liquid supplementing pipe into the liquid supplementing cavity; the image acquisition module is in telecommunication connection with the image processing unit. The application can reduce the discomfort and risk brought to the patient in the lubricant supplementing process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of medical devices, and in particular to a flexible endoscope. Background Art

[0002] With the development of fiber optic technology and electronic imaging technology, flexible tube endoscopes came into being. Its core technologies include high-resolution micro cameras, optical fibers, and flexible outer tubes that can be bent. These technological advances allow endoscopes to pass through tortuous paths more flexibly and provide clear images, greatly expanding its scope of application.

[0003] When performing digestive tract examinations such as gastroscopy or colonoscopy, lubricants are often used to help the endoscope pass through the esophagus, stomach or intestines more easily. This reduces patient discomfort and helps prevent mucosal damage. In bronchoscopy, although the airway is relatively open, a small amount of lubricant may still be required in some cases, especially when passing through the glottis or narrow areas. Before inserting the endoscope, apply the lubricant evenly to the front end of the endoscope and the part to be inserted into the human body.

[0004] During the operation of a hose-type endoscope, if the lubricant has been attached to the front channel before entering the inspection area, and the lubricant needs to be replenished in the subsequent operation, the endoscope should be withdrawn and then reapplied with an appropriate amount of lubricant. During the lubricant replenishment process, the frequent entry and exit of the endoscope may cause additional mechanical stimulation to the patient's mucosa or tissue, causing discomfort, pain, or even injury. When the endoscope is withdrawn, it may destroy the relatively sterile operating environment that has been established, increasing the risk of cross-infection. Summary of the invention

[0005] In order to reduce the discomfort and risks brought to patients during the lubricant replenishment process, the present application provides a flexible endoscope.

[0006] The present application provides a flexible endoscope, which adopts the following technical solution: A flexible endoscope, comprising: A flexible insertion structure, comprising an insertion tube and an image acquisition module and a light source arranged in the insertion tube, wherein the image acquisition module comprises an image sensor and an objective lens, and the objective lens is arranged at one end of the insertion tube; An operating handle connected to one end of the flexible insertion structure; The fluid infusion unit comprises a fluid infusion sleeve, a fluid infusion tube and a delivery source, wherein the fluid infusion sleeve is sleeved on one end of the insertion tube away from the operating handle, a fluid infusion cavity is formed between the inner wall of the fluid infusion sleeve and the outer wall of the insertion tube, a liquid outlet channel is provided on the fluid infusion sleeve, the fluid infusion tube is passed through the insertion tube, and one end of the fluid infusion tube is connected to the fluid infusion cavity, and the delivery source is used to transport the lubricant in the fluid infusion tube to the fluid infusion cavity; The image processing unit is connected to the image acquisition module by telecommunication.

[0007] By adopting the above technical solution, the flexible endoscope can achieve continuous supply of lubricant during the inspection process by adding a rehydration unit, avoiding the situation where the endoscope is repeatedly withdrawn and reinserted due to insufficient lubricant. It not only reduces the patient's discomfort and pain, reduces the mechanical stimulation to the mucosa or tissue, but also maintains the relative sterility of the operating environment, effectively reducing the risk of cross infection. The cooperation of the image acquisition module and the image processing unit can transmit clear inspection images in real time, improving the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis.

[0008] Optionally, the fluid infusion sleeve is arranged in a cylindrical shape, a plurality of the fluid outlet channels are arranged at intervals along the length of the fluid infusion sleeve, and the fluid outlet channels are arranged obliquely relative to the axis of the fluid infusion sleeve.

[0009] By adopting the above technical solution, the fluid infusion sleeve is set in a cylindrical shape, and multiple fluid outlet channels are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the fluid infusion sleeve, and the fluid outlet channels are arranged obliquely relative to the axis of the fluid infusion sleeve, so that the lubricant can be more evenly distributed on the outer surface of one end of the insertion tube, effectively reducing the friction of the endoscope during entry and movement, thereby reducing the patient's discomfort and the risk of mucosal damage. At the same time, the obliquely arranged fluid outlet channel guides the lubricant, which, on the one hand, allows the lubricant to flow better to the part that needs lubrication, and on the other hand, spreads the spraying range of the lubricant, further improving the lubrication effect.

[0010] Optionally, a one-way flow guide funnel is fixed in the liquid outlet channel, and the inner diameter of the one-way flow guide funnel gradually decreases in the direction away from the insertion tube.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, the structural design of the one-way flow guide can effectively prevent the lubricant from flowing back, and also prevent the mucus in the detection channel from entering the liquid replenishment cavity along the liquid outlet channel, thereby avoiding waste and pollution.

[0012] Optionally, a cleaning unit is further included, the cleaning unit comprising a cleaning liquid tank and a cleaning tube, and a cleaning nozzle is provided at one end of the insertion tube where the objective lens is provided; One end of the cleaning tube is connected to the cleaning liquid tank, and the other end is connected to the cleaning nozzle. The opening of the cleaning nozzle is arranged toward the objective lens. The delivery source is also used to transport the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tube to the cleaning nozzle.

[0013] By adopting the above technical solution, the cleaning unit can effectively remove stains and residual substances on the surface of the objective lens to ensure image clarity. At the same time, the opening of the cleaning nozzle is set toward the objective lens, so that the cleaning liquid can be directly sprayed on the surface of the objective lens, improving the cleaning efficiency. In addition, the delivery source is not only responsible for transporting the lubricant to the liquid replenishment cavity, but also for transporting the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tube to the cleaning nozzle, realizing the integration of lubrication and cleaning functions.

[0014] Optionally, the fluid infusion unit further includes a fluid storage tank, and one end of the fluid infusion tube is inserted into the fluid storage tank; The delivery source includes an air pump, the air pump is connected to a pressurized air pipe, the pressurized air pipe includes a pressurized main pipe, a first pressurized branch pipe and a second pressurized branch pipe connected to one end of the pressurized main pipe, one end of the first pressurized branch pipe is connected to the liquid storage tank, and one end of the second pressurized branch pipe is connected to the cleaning liquid tank; The first pressurized branch pipe is provided with a first on-off piece, and the second pressurized branch pipe is provided with a second on-off piece. The first on-off piece is used to control the on / off between the first pressurized branch pipe and the pressurized main pipe, and the second on-off piece is used to control the on / off between the second pressurized branch pipe and the pressurized main pipe.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, the design of the liquid storage tank ensures the continuous supply of lubricant, and the air pump can accurately control the delivery amount of lubricant, thereby improving the safety and efficiency of the operation. The setting of the first on-off piece and the second on-off piece allows the doctor to flexibly adjust the gas flow direction in the pressurized straight tube according to actual needs to control the flow of cleaning liquid or lubricant, further improving the applicability and operational convenience of the equipment.

[0016] Optionally, it also includes a suction unit, which includes a suction tube and a suction source. The suction tube is inserted into the insertion tube; one end of the suction tube extends to one end of the insertion tube where an objective lens is provided, and the other end is connected to the suction source.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, the suction unit can effectively remove secretions and residual liquid at the front end of the distal end, maintain a clear field of vision, and reduce the repeated adjustment of the flexible insertion structure due to obstructed vision, thereby reducing mechanical stimulation to the patient's mucosa or tissue and improving the safety and comfort of the examination.

[0018] Optionally, the light source, the objective lens and the cleaning nozzle are located on the same straight line.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, the light source and the objective lens are located on the same straight line, which can ensure that the light directly irradiates the part to be inspected, reduce shadows and dark areas caused by angle deviation, and improve image quality. The cleaning nozzle is on the same axis as the objective lens and the cleaning nozzle, so that the cleaning liquid can be accurately sprayed onto the surface of the objective lens and the light source, effectively removing stains and fog, keeping the light source and objective lens clean and transparent, and further improving the imaging effect.

[0020] Optionally, an anti-fog layer is provided on the outer side wall of the objective lens.

[0021] By adopting the above technical solution, the anti-fog layer on the outer wall of the objective lens can effectively prevent the lens from fogging due to temperature changes during endoscope operation, ensure image clarity, and improve diagnostic accuracy.

[0022] Optionally, the image sensor is sealedly connected to the objective lens, and the fluid infusion sleeve is also sealedly connected to the insertion tube.

[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, the sealed connection between the image sensor and the objective lens can effectively prevent liquid or other contaminants from entering the internal circuit, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the device. The sealed connection between the liquid replenishment sleeve and the insertion tube can ensure the stability of the lubricant during transmission, avoid leakage, and thus reduce lubricant waste.

[0024] Optionally, the insertion tube includes a proximal portion close to the operating handle and a distal portion away from the operating handle, and the hardness of the proximal portion is greater than that of the distal portion.

[0025] By adopting the above technical solution, the proximal end of the insertion tube of the sexual endoscope has a higher hardness, which can better support various manipulation actions of the operating handle and ensure that the endoscope can be stably and accurately positioned when entering the body. At the same time, the lower hardness of the distal end makes it softer, which can reduce the mechanical stimulation to the patient's mucosa or tissue when bending and turning, thereby reducing the patient's discomfort and potential risk of injury.

[0026] In summary, the present application includes at least one of the following beneficial effects: 1. The provision of the fluid replenishment unit in the present application enables the lubricant to be replenished in real time without exiting the endoscope, thereby significantly reducing the discomfort and pain caused to the patient by frequent entry and exit of the endoscope; 2. The inclined design of the liquid outlet channel on the fluid infusion sleeve and the setting of the one-way flow guide funnel in this application effectively ensure the uniform distribution of the lubricant, avoid local over-lubrication or drying, and further reduce the risk of mucosal damage; 3. The addition of the cleaning unit in this application can not only remove stains on the objective lens in time and keep the field of vision clear, but also help maintain the sterility of the operating environment and reduce the probability of cross infection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a flexible endoscope according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of the distal end portion in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 3 is a front view structural schematic diagram of the distal end portion in an embodiment of the present application; Explanation of the reference numerals: 1. flexible insertion structure; 11. insertion tube; 111. proximal end; 112. distal end; 12. image acquisition module; 121. image sensor; 122. objective lens; 13. light source; 2. operating handle; 3. fluid replenishment unit; 31. fluid replenishment sleeve; 311. liquid outlet channel; 32. fluid replenishment tube; 33. air pump; 34. fluid replenishment chamber; 35. liquid storage tank; 4. one-way guide bucket; 5. cleaning unit; 51. cleaning liquid tank; 52. cleaning tube; 53. cleaning nozzle; 6. pressurized air pipe; 61. pressurized main pipe; 62. first pressurized branch pipe; 63. second pressurized branch pipe; 7. first on-off piece; 8. second on-off piece; 9. suction unit; 91. suction tube; 92. suction source. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following is combined with Figure 1-Figure 3 This application is described in further detail.

[0029] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A flexible endoscope provided in an embodiment of the present application includes a flexible insertion structure 1, an operating handle 2, a fluid infusion unit 3 and an image processing unit. The flexible insertion structure 1 includes an insertion tube 11 and an image acquisition module 12 and a light source 13 arranged in the insertion tube 11; the insertion tube 11 includes a proximal portion 111 and a distal portion 112, the proximal portion 111 is located at one end of the insertion tube 11, and the distal portion 112 is located at the other end of the insertion tube 11; the proximal portion 111 and the distal portion 112 are made of different materials, and the hardness of the proximal portion 111 is greater than that of the distal portion 112. The proximal portion 111 is fixedly connected to the operating handle 2. The image acquisition module 12 is fixed in the distal portion 112, and the image acquisition module 12 includes an image sensor 121 and an objective lens 122 sealed and connected to one end of the image sensor 121, and an anti-fog layer is coated on the outer surface of the objective lens 122; the image sensor 121 is connected to the image processing unit by a data line, and the light source 13 is also fixed in the distal portion 112 to illuminate the inspection area.

[0030] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The insertion tube 11 can be made of a variety of flexible materials, such as medical-grade silicone or PU (polyurethane), which have good flexibility and biocompatibility. The diameter of the insertion tube 11 is generally several millimeters to meet the inspection requirements of different parts. The image sensor 121 can be a CMOS or CCD type, both of which have the characteristics of high resolution and low noise. The objective lens 122 can choose a fixed-focus lens or a multi-focus lens to adapt to different inspection scenarios. The image processing unit is responsible for receiving data from the image sensor 121 and performing real-time processing to generate high-quality video images. The image processing unit can be integrated inside the operating handle 2, or it can be an external device connected to the operating handle 2 via a data cable.

[0031] refer to Figure 1 The rehydration unit 3 includes a rehydration sleeve 31, a rehydration tube 32 and a delivery source. The rehydration sleeve 31 is sleeved outside the distal end 112 of the insertion tube 11 and is sealed and fixed to the outer wall of the distal end 112. A rehydration cavity 34 is formed between the inner wall of the rehydration sleeve 31 and the outer wall of the insertion tube 11. A liquid outlet channel 311 is provided on the rehydration sleeve 31. The rehydration sleeve 31 is specifically configured to be cylindrical, and its material is also selected from medical grade materials, such as silicone or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer rubber) to ensure safety in contact with the human body. The length of the rehydration sleeve 31 can be adjusted according to actual needs. Multiple rows of liquid outlet channels 311 are arranged at intervals around the axis direction of the rehydration sleeve 31. Multiple liquid outlet channels 311 in each row are arranged at intervals along the length of the rehydration sleeve 31, and the liquid outlet channels 311 are arranged obliquely relative to the axis of the rehydration sleeve 31. When the lubricant in the rehydration cavity 34 flows out along the liquid outlet channel 311, it can be more evenly distributed on the surface of the insertion tube 11 to improve the lubrication effect. The aperture of the liquid outlet channel 311 is generally about 0.5 mm to ensure a moderate flow rate. A one-way flow guide 4 is also fixed in the liquid outlet channel 311, and the inner diameter of the one-way flow guide 4 gradually decreases in the direction away from the insertion tube 11. This can effectively prevent liquid backflow and ensure the directional flow of the lubricant.

[0032] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The liquid infusion tube 32 is partially located in the insertion tube 11, and one end of the liquid infusion tube 32 is connected to the liquid infusion cavity 34, and the other end extends into the operating handle 2 and then passes through the operating handle 2; the end of the liquid infusion tube 32 close to the operating handle 2 is connected to a liquid storage tank 35, and the liquid storage tank 35 contains lubricant, and one end of the liquid infusion tube 32 is located below the liquid level of the lubricant. The lubricant in the liquid storage tank 35 can be transported to the liquid infusion cavity 34 along the liquid infusion tube 32 through a conveying source, so as to continuously replenish the lubricant.

[0033] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2In order to ensure the clarity of the image captured by the image acquisition module 12, a cleaning unit 5 is also provided; the cleaning unit 5 includes a cleaning liquid tank 51, a cleaning tube 52 and a cleaning nozzle 53, the cleaning nozzle 53 is fixed to one end of the distal end portion 112 where the objective lens 122 is fixed, and the opening of the cleaning nozzle 53 is arranged toward the objective lens 122. Figure 3 , the light source 13, the objective lens 122 and the cleaning nozzle 53 are located on the same straight line, so that the cleaning liquid can be accurately sprayed onto the surface of the objective lens 122 and the surface of the light source 13, effectively removing stains, keeping the light source 13 and the objective lens 122 clean and transparent, and further improving the imaging effect. The cleaning tube 52 is partially located in the insertion tube 11, and one end of the cleaning tube 52 is connected to the cleaning nozzle 53; the other end of the cleaning tube 52 extends into the operating handle 2 and then passes through the operating handle 2, penetrates into the cleaning liquid tank 51, and is located below the liquid level of the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid tank 51.

[0034] refer to Figure 1 In this embodiment, the delivery source is an air pump 33, and the air pump 33 is connected to a pressurized air pipe 6, which includes a pressurized main pipe 61 and a first pressurized branch pipe 62 and a second pressurized branch pipe 63 connected to one end of the pressurized main pipe 61; one end of the first pressurized branch pipe 62 penetrates into the liquid storage tank 35 along the top of the liquid storage tank 35, and one end of the second pressurized branch pipe 63 penetrates into the cleaning liquid tank 51 along the top of the cleaning liquid tank 51. In addition, the lubricant in the liquid storage tank 35 and the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid tank 51 are not full. A first on-off piece 7 is fixed to the first pressurized branch pipe 62, and a second on-off piece 8 is fixed to the second pressurized branch pipe 63; in this embodiment, the first on-off piece 7 and the second on-off piece 8 are both configured as on-off valves. During use, if the first switch 7 is opened, the second switch 8 is closed, and the air pump 33 is started, the lubricant can be replenished; if the second switch 8 is opened, the first switch 7 is closed, and the air pump 33 is started, the objective lens 122 and the light source 13 can be cleaned.

[0035] refer to Figure 1 , a suction unit 9 is also provided, the suction unit 9 includes a suction tube 91 and a suction source 92, the suction tube 91 is partially located in the insertion tube 11, one end of the suction tube 91 is fixed to the end of the insertion tube 11 provided with an objective lens 122; the other end of the suction tube 91 extends to the operating handle 2 and then passes through the operating handle 2, and is connected to the suction source 92. In this embodiment, the suction source 92 is specifically configured as a suction pump. The suction unit 9 can effectively remove secretions and residual liquid at the front end of the distal end 112, maintain a clear field of vision, and reduce the situation of repeated adjustment of the flexible insertion structure 1 due to obstructed vision, thereby reducing the mechanical stimulation to the patient's mucosa or tissue, and improving the safety and comfort of the examination.

[0036] The implementation principle of a flexible endoscope in the embodiment of the present application is as follows: a continuous supply of lubricant is achieved through the rehydration unit 3, and the lubricant can be replenished without frequently withdrawing the endoscope. Not only does it greatly shorten the operation time, but it also reduces the mechanical stimulation to the patient's mucosa or tissue, reducing discomfort and potential risk of injury. At the same time, the addition of the cleaning unit 5 and the suction unit 9 further improves the practicality and safety of the endoscope, allowing doctors to better control the on-site conditions during the operation and improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.

[0037] The above are all preferred embodiments of the present application, and the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Therefore, any equivalent changes made according to the structure, shape, and principle of the present application should be included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A flexible endoscope, characterized in that: include: A flexible insertion structure (1) comprising an insertion tube (11) and an image acquisition module (12) and a light source (13) disposed in the insertion tube (11), wherein the image acquisition module (12) comprises an image sensor (121) and an objective lens (122), and the objective lens (122) is disposed at one end of the insertion tube (11); An operating handle (2) connected to one end of the flexible insertion structure (1); A fluid infusion unit (3), comprising a fluid infusion sleeve (31), a fluid infusion tube (32) and a delivery source, wherein the fluid infusion sleeve (31) is sleeved on one end of the insertion tube (11) away from the operating handle (2), a fluid infusion cavity (34) is formed between an inner wall of the fluid infusion sleeve (31) and an outer wall of the insertion tube (11), a fluid outlet channel (311) is provided on the fluid infusion sleeve (31), the fluid infusion tube (32) is passed through the insertion tube (11), and one end of the fluid infusion tube (32) is connected to the fluid infusion cavity (34), and the delivery source is used to transport the lubricant in the fluid infusion tube (32) to the fluid infusion cavity (34); An image processing unit, wherein the image acquisition module (12) is connected to the image processing unit by telecommunication.

2. A flexible endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fluid infusion sleeve (31) is arranged in a cylindrical shape, a plurality of fluid outlet channels (311) are arranged at intervals along the length of the fluid infusion sleeve (31), and the fluid outlet channels (311) are arranged obliquely relative to the axis of the fluid infusion sleeve (31).

3. A flexible endoscope according to claim 2, characterized in that: A one-way flow guide funnel (4) is also fixed in the liquid outlet channel (311), and the inner diameter of the one-way flow guide funnel (4) gradually decreases in a direction away from the insertion tube (11).

4. A flexible endoscope according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cleaning unit (5) further comprises a cleaning unit (5), wherein the cleaning unit (5) comprises a cleaning liquid tank (51) and a cleaning tube (52), and one end of the insertion tube (11) provided with the objective lens (122) is provided with a cleaning nozzle (53); One end of the cleaning tube (52) is in communication with the cleaning liquid tank (51), and the other end is in communication with the cleaning nozzle (53); the opening of the cleaning nozzle (53) is arranged toward the objective lens (122); and the transport source is also used to transport the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tube (52) to the cleaning nozzle (53).

5. A flexible endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that: The liquid infusion unit (3) further comprises a liquid storage tank (35), and one end of the liquid infusion tube (32) is inserted into the liquid storage tank (35); The delivery source comprises an air pump (33), the air pump (33) is connected to a pressurized air pipe (6), the pressurized air pipe (6) comprises a pressurized main pipe (61), a first pressurized branch pipe (62) and a second pressurized branch pipe (63) connected to one end of the pressurized main pipe (61), one end of the first pressurized branch pipe (62) is connected to the liquid storage tank (35), and one end of the second pressurized branch pipe (63) is connected to the cleaning liquid tank (51); The first pressurizing branch pipe (62) is provided with a first on-off member (7), and the second pressurizing branch pipe (63) is provided with a second on-off member (8); the first on-off member (7) is used to control the on / off connection between the first pressurizing branch pipe (62) and the pressurizing main pipe (61), and the second on-off member (8) is used to control the on / off connection between the second pressurizing branch pipe (63) and the pressurizing main pipe (61).

6. A flexible endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also comprises a suction unit (9), the suction unit (9) comprising a suction tube (91) and a suction source (92), the suction tube (91) being inserted into the insertion tube (11); one end of the suction tube (91) extending to an end of the insertion tube (11) provided with an objective lens (122), and the other end being in communication with the suction source (92).

7. A flexible endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that: The light source (13), the objective lens (122) and the cleaning nozzle (53) are located on the same straight line.

8. The flexible endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: An anti-fog layer is provided on the outer side wall of the objective lens (122).

9. The flexible endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The image sensor (121) is sealedly connected to the objective lens (122), and the fluid infusion sleeve (31) is also sealedly connected to the insertion tube (11).

10. The flexible endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The insertion tube (11) comprises a proximal portion (111) close to the operating handle (2) and a distal portion (112) far from the operating handle (2), and the hardness of the proximal portion (111) is greater than that of the distal portion (112).

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