Ultrasonic probe

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing an ultrasonic probe capable of easily recognizing the arrangement state in a subject. An ultrasonic probe (1) is provided with: a tip section (40) on which an ultrasonic transducer (41A) is provided; and a first light emission section (431) and a second light emission section (432) that emit light toward the side opposite to the side on which the ultrasonic transducer (41A) is provided, the first light emission section (431) and the second light emission section (432) emitting dot-like light (431L) and light (432L).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present invention relates to an ultrasonic probe. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an ultrasonic probe that radiates a light beam from a light source disposed adjacent to a transducer array toward the inner wall of a body cavity of a subject in a direction opposite to a conversion surface of the transducer array.

[0003] Patent document 2 describes an ultrasonic probe for endoscopic surgery, which comprises: a main body, which is inserted into a cannula needle tube (inserted into the patient's abdominal wall) and extends slenderly; a bending portion, which is installed at the front end of the main body; a head, which is installed at the front end of the bending portion and has an ultrasonic vibrator at the front end; a light beam emitting mechanism, which is installed at the head and irradiates a light beam from the head toward the abdominal wall; and a guide portion, which is installed at the head and guides the puncture needle.

[0004] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2015 / 166302

[0005] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-191602 Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention provides a technique that can easily identify the arrangement state of an ultrasonic probe in a subject.

[0007] An ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a distal end portion provided with an ultrasonic transducer; and a light emitting portion provided at the distal end portion and emitting light toward a side opposite to a side provided with the ultrasonic transducer, wherein the light emitting portion emits a plurality of point lights or line lights.

[0008] Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the technique of the present invention, the configuration state inside the subject can be easily recognized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 as one embodiment of the technology of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 Observe along the direction Y1 Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a side view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown.

[0012] Figure 3 is observed along the direction Z2 Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown in FIG.

[0013] Figure 4is observed along the direction Z1 Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a top view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown.

[0014] Figure 5 Observed along direction Y2 Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a side view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown.

[0015] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the cross section along line AA.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a diagram of the virtual plane V0 observed along the direction Z2.

[0017] Figure 8 It means along Figure 3 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a modified example of the cross section taken along line AA.

[0018] Fig. 9 40 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the front end portion 40. Figure 5 The corresponding figure.

[0019] Fig.10 is a diagram for explaining a second modified example of the front end portion 40, Figure 2 The corresponding figure.

[0020] Fig.11 is observed along the direction Z2 Fig.10 FIG. 1 shows an ultrasonic probe 1 .

[0021] Fig.12 is observed along the direction Z1 Fig.10 FIG. 1 shows an ultrasonic probe 1 .

[0022] Fig.13 is along Fig.11 Schematic diagram of the cross section of line BB.

[0023] Fig.14 It is a diagram showing a modified example of the irradiation form of a plurality of point lights.

[0024] Fig.15 40 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of the front end portion 40. Figure 6 The corresponding figure.

[0025] Fig.16 4 is a diagram showing light emitted from the second light emitting portion 432 and irradiated onto the virtual plane VO.

[0026] Fig.17 It is a schematic diagram showing a first structural example of the optical path control unit 432B.

[0027] Fig.18It is a schematic diagram showing the second structural example of the optical path control unit 432B.

[0028] Fig.19 It is a diagram showing a modified example of the emission form of a plurality of linear lights.

[0029] Fig. 20 It means from Fig.19 FIG. 4 is a diagram of light irradiated onto the virtual plane VO by the second light emitting portion 432 of the structure shown.

[0030] Fig.21 Yes means Fig. 20 A diagram showing a modified example of the light irradiation form shown.

[0031] Fig. 22 Yes means Fig. 20 A diagram showing a modified example of the light irradiation form shown.

[0032] Fig.23 This is a diagram showing a state of light irradiated onto the virtual plane V0 when a light emitting section that emits a plurality of light dots arranged in a perfect circle is provided at the tip portion 40 .

[0033] Fig.24 This is a diagram showing a state of light irradiated onto the virtual plane V0 when a light emitting section that emits a plurality of light dots arranged in an elliptical shape is provided at the tip portion 40 .

[0034] Fig.25 It is a diagram showing a modified example of the ultrasonic probe 1 .

[0035] Explanation of symbols

[0036] 1-ultrasonic probe, X-axis direction, Y, Z-direction, L1-first distance, 2-control device, L2-second distance, 10-insertion part, 20-connection part, 30-bend part, 40-front end part, 41-ultrasonic transceiver part, 41A-ultrasonic vibrator, 41B-scanning range, 42-guide part, 42J, 42L, 42R-extension line, 42A, 42B-opening, 42C-through hole, 45-scale, 45A-mark, 50-operation part, 60-cable, 100-ultrasonic diagnostic device, 100J-axis, 421, 422-inner wall, 430, 430A-irradiation range, 431-first light emitting part, 431A, 432A-light source, 431L, 432L, 432La, 432Ls, 433, 433L-light, 431a, 432a-recess, 432-second light emitting part, 432B-optical path control part, 432F-light-shielding filter, 432Bs-reflecting surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Figure 1The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic structure of an embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 includes an ultrasonic probe 1 and a control device 2 mainly composed of a processor for controlling the ultrasonic probe 1 and generating ultrasonic images based on the output of the ultrasonic probe 1.

[0038] The ultrasonic probe 1 is used by being introduced into the abdominal cavity through a plurality of trocars inserted into the abdomen of a subject such as a human or an animal. The user observes the situation in the abdominal cavity by using an endoscope introduced into the body cavity through other trocars among the plurality of trocars, while manually operating the ultrasonic probe 1 to bring the ultrasonic transceiver into close contact with the target inspection site, thereby obtaining an ultrasonic observation image for inspection.

[0039] The ultrasonic probe 1 includes a long columnar insertion portion 10 to be inserted into the abdominal cavity and an operation portion 50 to be held by a user. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , as the axial direction X of the insertion portion 10, a direction X1 from the base end toward the front end of the insertion portion 10 and a direction X2 which is the opposite direction to the direction X1 are shown. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , directions Y and Z that intersect the axial direction X and intersect each other are shown. Figure 1 In the example of , directions Y and Z are respectively orthogonal to the axial direction X. Furthermore, direction Y is orthogonal to direction Z. One direction of direction Y is recorded as direction Y1, and the other direction of direction Y is recorded as direction Y2. One direction of direction Z is recorded as direction Z1, and the other direction of direction Y is recorded as direction Z2.

[0040] The insertion portion 10 includes a front end portion 40, a bending portion 30 provided at the base end of the front end portion 40, and a connecting portion 20 connecting the bending portion 30 and the operating portion 50. The bending portion 30 is configured to have a sufficiently lower rigidity than the connecting portion 20 and the front end portion 40, and can be bent in two directions (for example, direction Y and direction Z) that intersect each other by operating a bending operator (not shown) provided at the operating portion 50, etc., through a steel wire connected to the bending operator. The bending portion 30 is not limited to a component that can be bent by operating the bending operator, and may be, for example, a structure that is passively bent when the front end portion 40 is abutted against the inspection site.

[0041] Figure 2 Observe along the direction Y1 Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a side view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown. Figure 3 is observed along the direction Z2 Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown in FIG. Figure 4 is observed along the direction Z1 Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a top view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown. Figure 5 Observed along direction Y2 Figure 1FIG. 2 is a side view of the insertion portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 shown. Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the cross section along line AA.

[0042] exist Figure 2 , the axis 100J of the insertion portion 10 is shown. The front end portion 40 is provided with an ultrasonic wave transmitting and receiving portion 41, a guide portion 42 for guiding a treatment instrument such as a puncture needle, a first light emitting portion 431, and a second light emitting portion 432. The following description will be made as if the treatment instrument is a puncture needle, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0043] The ultrasonic wave transmitting and receiving unit 41 is provided on the surface of the front end portion 40 on the side in the direction Z2. Figure 2 In the side view shown, the ultrasonic wave is transmitted toward the direction Z2 side closer to the axis 100J. Figure 4 As shown, the ultrasonic transceiver 41 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 41A arranged side by side in the axial direction X, and an acoustic matching layer and an acoustic lens (not shown). The shape of the ultrasonic transducer 41A as viewed in the vibration direction is, for example, a rectangle. The ultrasonic transducer 41A is provided at the front end 40, for example, with its longitudinal direction along the direction Y.

[0044] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , a scale 45 is provided on the surface of the front end portion 40 on the Y1 side. The scale 45 includes a mark 45A indicating the center of the axial direction X of the ultrasonic transceiver 41. By referring to the scale 45, it is possible to grasp the scanning range 41B (the part observed in the ultrasonic image, refer to FIG. 1 ) of the ultrasonic wave by the ultrasonic transceiver 41. Figure 2 The scale 45 may also be provided on the surface of the distal end portion 40 on the side in the direction Y2.

[0045] like Figure 6 As shown, the guide portion 42 guides the treatment instrument (puncture needle) to the ultrasonic scanning range 41B. By utilizing the guide portion 42, the puncture needle can be accurately punctured into the puncture object. Specifically, the guide portion 42 is composed of a hole portion, which connects a surface provided on the direction Z1 side, such as a circular opening 42A, and a surface provided on the direction Z2 side, such as a circular opening 42B. The guide portion 42 is provided between the ultrasonic transceiver 41 and the curved portion 30. In the axial direction X, the opening 42B is arranged closer to the direction X1 side than the opening 42A. That is, the extension line 42J of the axis of the guide portion 42 is inclined toward the direction X2 side relative to the direction Z. In a state where the ultrasonic transceiver 41 is in contact with an organ of the subject, etc., the treatment instrument (puncture needle) is inserted from the opening 42A to the guide portion 42, thereby enabling the front end of the treatment instrument to reach the ultrasonic scanning range 41B based on the ultrasonic wave of the ultrasonic transceiver 41. The extension line 42J extends in a direction along the inner wall surface of the guide portion 42, and in Figure 6 In the example, it is parallel to its inner wall surface (the inner wall surface 421 on the direction X1 side and the inner wall surface 422 on the direction X2 side).

[0046] The first light emitting section 431 and the second light emitting section 432 are provided on the surface on the direction Z1 side of the distal end portion 40, and emit light toward the direction Z1 side closer to the axis 100J. In the distal end portion 40, the direction Z2 side closer to the axis 100J constitutes the side where the ultrasonic vibrator 41A is provided, and the first light emitting section 431 and the second light emitting section 432 respectively emit light toward the side opposite to the side where the ultrasonic vibrator 41A is provided.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, the first light emitting portion 431 and the second light emitting portion 432 are arranged along the axial direction X and are provided at positions opposite to each other across the guide portion 42. The first light emitting portion 431 includes a recessed portion 431a provided on the surface on the Z1 side of the front end portion 40 and a light source 431A provided in the recessed portion 431a. The second light emitting portion 432 includes a recessed portion 432a provided on the surface on the Z1 side of the front end portion 40 and a light source 432A provided in the recessed portion 432a. The second light emitting portion 432 is provided on the front end side (the X1 side) closer to the front end portion 40 than the first light emitting portion 431. The first distance L1 between the first light emitting portion 431 and the guide portion 42 (the definition of the distance between the opening center of the recess 431a on the axial direction X and the center of the opening 42A) and the second distance L2 between the second light emitting portion 432 and the guide portion 42 (the definition of the distance between the opening center of the recess 432a on the axial direction X and the center of the opening 42A) are the same, but may also be different.

[0048] The light source 432A emits a point-shaped light 432L that travels in the extension direction along the extension line 42J (which has the same meaning as the direction along the inner wall surface 421). The light source 431A emits a point-shaped light 431L that travels in the extension direction along the extension line 42J (which has the same meaning as the direction along the inner wall surface 422). In addition to light-emitting elements such as lasers, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), organic ELs (electro-luminescence), or inorganic ELs, the light sources 431A and 432A can each use a xenon lamp or the like via a light guide path. Although not particularly limited, it is preferred to use a laser in consideration of visual recognition. The first light emitting portion 431 and the second light emitting portion 432 may further include optical components for improving the straightness of the light from the light source or controlling the direction of travel.

[0049] The light emitted from the first light emitting section 431 and the second light emitting section 432 is irradiated from the abdominal cavity of the subject to the abdominal wall. However, in order to explain the irradiation state of the subject with the light from the front end section 40, the case where the light is irradiated to the virtual plane VO perpendicular to the direction Z is explained here. The virtual plane VO is equivalent to the abdominal wall of the subject. Figure 6 As shown, the virtual plane VO is arranged on the direction Z1 side with respect to the front end portion 40 .

[0050] Figure 7 : is a diagram of observing the virtual plane VO along the direction Z2. On the virtual plane V0, the point-shaped light 432L and the point-shaped light 431L are irradiated in a state of being arranged at intervals along the axial direction X (the same meaning as the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic vibrators 41A). In this way, the first light emitting section 431 and the second light emitting section 432 emit the point-shaped light 432L and the point-shaped light 431L based on the arrangement of the ultrasonic vibrators 41A. In addition, the light 432L and the light 431L are emitted in the direction along the inner wall surface 421 and the inner wall surface 422 of the guide section 42, so it can also be said that they are based on the shape of the guide section 42. That is, the first light emitting section 431 and the second light emitting section 432 emit the point-shaped light 432L and the point-shaped light 431L based on the shape of the guide section 42.

[0051] In the virtual plane VO, the range between the light 432L and the light 431L is defined as the light irradiation range 430. The intersection point P with the extension line 42J in the virtual plane VO overlaps with the irradiation range 430. The intersection point P is located at the center of the irradiation range 430 in the axial direction X.

[0052] The irradiation range 430 corresponds to the range of the region where the second light emitting portion 432, the opening 42A, and the first light emitting portion 431 are provided on the surface on the Z1 side of the front end portion 40 in parallel along the extension line 42J in the direction Z1. Therefore, by obliquely inserting the treatment instrument into the approximate center of the irradiation range 430, the treatment instrument can be easily inserted into the guide portion 42.

[0053] According to the ultrasonic probe 1 configured as above, the puncture needle is inserted obliquely into the abdomen with the base end side of the puncture needle tilted toward the light 431L side, aiming at the approximate center of the irradiation range 430 surrounded by the light 431L and the light 432L irradiated from the abdominal cavity of the subject. This makes it easy for the puncture needle to reach the guide portion 42. For example, in a structure where only one of the light 431L and the light 432L is irradiated to the abdominal wall, it is difficult to understand in which direction the guide portion 42 is located relative to the irradiated light, and it is difficult to determine in which direction the puncture needle should be oriented relative to the irradiated light. In contrast, according to the ultrasonic probe 1, the arrangement direction of the light 431L and the light 432L can be recognized as the puncture direction of the puncture needle, so that the puncture needle can effectively perform puncture of the site abutting against the ultrasonic transceiver 41. In addition, by inserting the puncture needle into the guide portion 42, the puncture needle can be accurately punctured into the target site within the ultrasonic scanning range that can be confirmed by the ultrasonic image.

[0054] And, if Figure 7 As shown, when the first distance L1 between the first light emitting portion 431 and the opening 42A and the second distance L2 between the second light emitting portion 432 and the opening 42A are made the same, the intersection point P is located at the center of the irradiation range 430, so the insertion position of the treatment instrument relative to the irradiation range 430 can be more easily identified.

[0055] In order to easily identify in which direction the guide 42 is located relative to the irradiation range 430, or to easily identify which of the light 432L and the light 431L is located closer to the ultrasonic transceiver 41, the light 432L and the light 431L may have different light emission forms. For example, the colors of the light 432L and the light 431L may be different colors, or the irradiation sizes of the light 432L and the light 431L on the virtual plane VO may be different sizes, or the brightness of the light 432L and the light 431L may be different brightness, or the light emission cycles (intermittent emission, continuous emission, etc.) of the light 432L and the light 431L may be different cycles. Making the irradiation sizes of the light 432L and the light 431L on the virtual plane VO different means that the irradiation sizes of the light 432L and the light 431L are inconsistent.

[0056] Figure 8 It means along Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a modified example of the cross section of line AA of FIG. In addition to the fact that the emission direction of light 432L is inclined toward the extension line 42J relative to the extension direction of the extension line 42J, Figure 8 The variation shown is similar to Figure 3 The same. In addition, Figure 8In the embodiment, the emission direction of the light 431L may be inclined toward the extension line 42J relative to the extension direction of the extension line 42J. Furthermore, the emission direction of the light 432L may be the same as the extension direction of the extension line 42J, and the emission direction of the light 431L may be inclined toward the extension line 42J relative to the extension direction of the extension line 42J. Even with these structures, the insertion direction of the treatment instrument can be identified based on the irradiation range 430. Furthermore, since the width of the irradiation range 430 is narrowed, the jitter of the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be suppressed.

[0057] Fig. 9 40 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the front end portion 40. Figure 5 The structure of the tip portion 40 of the first modified example is the same as that of the first modified example except that the position of the second light emitting portion 432 in the axial direction X is changed to the same position as that of the mark 45A. Figures 2 to 5 The front end 40 shown is identical. Fig. 9 In the illustrated front end portion 40 , a second distance L2 between the second light emitting portion 432 and the guide portion 42 is greater than a first distance L1 between the first light emitting portion 431 and the guide portion 42 .

[0058] according to Fig. 9 In the structure shown, light 431L corresponding to the position near the guide part 42 and light 432L corresponding to the position of the mark 45A are irradiated to the abdominal wall. Thus, it is easy to recognize where the center position of the ultrasonic image is located by the reference light 432L, and it is easy to recognize where the guide part 42 is located by the reference light 431L. For example, even if it is desired to insert a treatment instrument at a position different from the guide part 42, the center of the ultrasonic image can be recognized, thereby facilitating the insertion of the treatment instrument to the target position.

[0059] Fig.10 is a diagram for explaining a second modified example of the front end portion 40, Figure 2 The corresponding figure. Fig.11 is observed along the direction Z2 Fig.10 FIG. 1 shows an ultrasonic probe 1 . Fig.12 is observed along the direction Z1 Fig.10 FIG. 1 shows an ultrasonic probe 1 . Fig.13 is along Fig.11 Schematic diagram of the cross section of line BB.

[0060] In addition to the different shapes of the guide portion 42 and the different light emitting directions of the first light emitting portion 431 and the second light emitting portion 432, Figures 10 to 12 The structure of the front end portion 40 shown is similar to Figure 2-5 The front end portions 40 shown are identical.

[0061] like Fig.11As shown, the opening 42A is in an elliptical shape extending along the axial direction X. Fig.12 As shown, the opening 42B is an elliptical shape extending along the axial direction X, but its length is shorter than that of the opening 42A. Fig.13 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the guide portion 42 is a tapered shape whose inner diameter increases from the direction Z2 toward the direction Z1. Fig.13 In the cross section shown, the inner wall surface 421 of the guide portion 42 on the X1 side is inclined toward the X1 side relative to the direction Z, and the inner wall surface 422 of the guide portion 42 on the X2 side is inclined toward the X2 side relative to the direction Z. Fig.11 As shown, a through hole 42C penetrating to the guide portion 42 may be provided on the surface of the front end portion 40 on the side in the direction Y1 .

[0062] Fig.13 The light source 432A shown emits a point light 432L that travels in a direction along the inner wall surface 421. Fig.13 42L of the extension line of the inner wall surface 421 is shown in FIG. 4 , and the light 432L is parallel to the extension line 42L. Fig.13 The light source 431A shown emits a point light 431L that travels in a direction along the inner wall surface 422. Fig.13 An extension line 42R of the inner wall surface 422 is shown in FIG. 4 , and the light 431L is parallel to the extension line 42R.

[0063] By utilizing the guide portion 42 of such a structure, the treatment tool can be inserted at an angle along the inner wall surface 421, or at an angle along the inner wall surface 422. Even with such a structure of the guide portion 42, by inserting the treatment tool at an angle along the inner wall surface 421 at a position near the light 432L within the irradiation range 430, or by inserting the treatment tool at an angle along the inner wall surface 422 at a position near the light 431L within the irradiation range 430, it is possible to easily insert the treatment tool into the guide portion 42 at different angles.

[0064] In the above description, two point lights, light 431L and light 432L, are emitted from the front end portion 40. However, the number of point lights emitted is not limited to two, and may be three or more. Fig.14 As shown, a light emitting portion may be added to the front end portion 40 so that at least one (in Fig.14 In the example of FIG. 4 , five light points 433L are irradiated between light 432L and light 431L. By increasing the number of light points, the visual recognition of irradiation range 430 can be improved. In addition, more complex processing can be supported.

[0065] For example, by using Fig.14 The illumination sizes of the seven lights shown are not consistent, and the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be easily identified. Fig.14 The light 433L at which the intersection point P of a part of the seven dot-shaped lights overlaps is configured to have an irradiation size larger than that of other lights, so that the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be easily identified. In addition, by controlling the illumination mode of the seven lights, for example, emitting the light sequentially from the light 431L side toward the light 432L side, and when all the 7 lights are emitted, repeatedly stopping the emission of all lights (making the seven lights change dynamically), it is easy to identify which of the light 432L and the light 431L is located near the ultrasonic transceiver 41. By sequentially changing the brightness or color of the seven lights from the direction X2 toward the direction X1, the light can also be changed dynamically.

[0066] Fig.15 40 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of the front end portion 40. Figure 6 The structure of the front end portion 40 of the third modified example is the same as that of the first light emitting portion 431, except that the first light emitting portion 431 is deleted and an optical path control portion 432B is added to the concave portion 432a of the second light emitting portion 432. Figure 2-5 The front end portions 40 shown are identical. Fig.16 3 is a diagram showing light emitted from the second light emitting section 432 and irradiated onto the virtual plane V0.

[0067] The optical path control unit 432B converts the light emitted from the light source 432A into linear light 432La extending along the axial direction X (which has the same meaning as the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic vibrators 41A), and emits it from the second light emitting unit 432. Furthermore, the light 432La is emitted while intersecting the extension line 42J. In this way, the second light emitting unit 432 emits linear light 432La based on the arrangement of the ultrasonic vibrators 41A. Furthermore, since the second light emitting unit 432 emits the linear light 432La in an overlapping manner with the extension line 42J, it can be said that the linear light 432La is emitted based on the shape of the guide unit 42. Furthermore, when using Figures 10 to 13 In the case of the guide portion 42 shown in the structure shown, the extending direction of the opening 42A constituting the entrance of the guide portion 42 is the same as the extending direction of the linear light 432La. Therefore, it can be said that the second light emitting portion 432 emits the linear light 432La based on the shape of the guide portion 42.

[0068] Fig.17 4 is a schematic diagram showing a first structural example of the optical path control unit 432B. Fig.17In the example shown, the light source 432A and the light path control unit 432B are arranged in the recess 432a along the bottom surface of the recess 432a. The light path control unit 432B is an optical component made of glass or resin, etc., which generates linear light 432La by reflecting the light incident to the inside on the mountain-shaped reflection surface 432Bs in a direction intersecting with the emission direction of the light from the light source 432A. The light path control unit 432B can also be replaced by a MEMS (micro Electro Mechanical Systems) mirror or a polyhedron rotating mirror.

[0069] Fig.18 4 is a schematic diagram showing a second structural example of the optical path control unit 432B. Fig.18 In the example shown, the light source 432A and the light path control unit 432B are arranged in the recess 432a in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface of the recess 432a. The light path control unit 432B is composed of a Powell lens, which converts the incident light into a linear light 432La and emits it from the opening surface of the recess 432a. The light path control unit 432B can also be replaced by a cylindrical lens.

[0070] As described above, according to the front end portion 40 of the third modification, Fig.16 The extending direction of the light 432La shown can be identified as the insertion direction of the treatment instrument, and thus Figures 2 to 5 Similarly, the structure shown in FIG. 1 can effectively perform treatment on the part abutted by the ultrasonic wave transmitting and receiving unit 41 using the treatment instrument. Fig.15 The light at the edge on the direction X1 side in the image may be emitted in the direction along the inner wall surface 421 .

[0071] In the front end portion 40 of the third modified example, it is also preferable to provide the following measures: Fig.16 Which of the two ends of the light 432La shown is the end close to the ultrasonic transceiver 41. For example, the light 432La may be configured such that multiple colors are arranged along the extending direction of the light 432La. For example, a color filter (multiple color filters are arranged in one dimension) is arranged in Fig.17 Above the optical path control unit 432B or Fig.18 The above structure can be realized by placing the optical path control unit 432B above the optical path control unit 432B.

[0072] The second light emitting section 432 may also be configured to emit a plurality of linear lights 432La instead of emitting a single linear light 432La. Fig.19As shown, by arranging a light-shielding filter 432F having a partial light-shielding area on the light-emitting side of the optical path control unit 432B composed of a Powell lens, a plurality of light-shielding filters (in the direction of the axis X) arranged at intervals can be arranged. Fig.19 In the example, 5) linear lights 432La are emitted.

[0073] Fig. 20 It means from Fig.19 FIG. 4 is a diagram of light irradiated onto the virtual plane V0 by the second light emitting portion 432 of the structure shown in FIG. Fig. 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , on the virtual plane V0, five linear lights 432La are irradiated in a state where they are arranged at intervals along the axis direction X. Fig. 20 Among the five linear lights 432La shown, by changing the color of a specific light 432La, dynamically changing each light 432La, or changing the width of the specific light 432La in direction X or direction Y, the existence direction of the ultrasonic transceiver 41 or the position of the guide portion can be identified.

[0074] Fig. 20 The position of the intersection point P in the irradiation range 430A of the five linear lights 432La shown in the figure can be changed in the left-right direction in the figure according to the configuration position of the direction Z of the virtual plane VO, but it is preferable to emit the five linear lights 432La in such a way that the middle light 432La among the five lights 432La always overlaps with the intersection point P. In this way, the insertion position of the treatment instrument relative to the irradiation range 430A can be easily identified. In this case, as Fig.21 As shown, for the light 432La overlapping with the intersection point P, at least one of the width in the direction Y and the width in the direction X (defined as the irradiation width of the light 432La) is different from the other light 432La (for example, Fig.21 As for the irradiation width of the five lights 432La, the irradiation width of the light 432La overlapping the intersection point P may be set to the maximum, and the irradiation width may be set to decrease as it moves away from the intersection point. Fig. 20 The irradiation widths of the five lights 432La shown are not uniform, so the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be easily identified.

[0075] Furthermore, by setting the color of the light 432La overlapping the intersection point P to be different from that of the other lights 432La, the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be more easily identified. Furthermore, by setting the brightness of the light 432La overlapping the intersection point P to be different from that of the other lights 432La, the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be more easily identified. Furthermore, by intermittently irradiating the light 432La overlapping the intersection point P and continuously irradiating the other lights 432La, the insertion position of the treatment instrument can be more easily identified.

[0076] Heretofore, it is assumed that a plurality of linear lights 432La are irradiated from the front end portion 40 in a state arranged along the axial direction X. For example, Fig. 20 In addition to the five lights 432La shown, Fig. 22 As shown, a light emitting portion may be added to the front end portion 40 to emit light in a direction intersecting with the arrangement direction of the five lights 432La (in Fig. 22 In the example of orthogonal) directions, multiple (in Fig. 22 In the example, there are 2) linear lights 432Ls.

[0077] Figures 2 to 14 The front end 40 shown in the figure is provided with a light emitting section that emits a plurality of light dots arranged in one direction (ie, linearly). As a modification, the front end 40 may be provided with a light emitting section that emits a plurality of light dots arranged in a ring.

[0078] Fig.23 1 is a diagram showing the state of light irradiated onto the virtual plane VO when a light emitting section emitting a plurality of light dots arranged in a ring shape is provided at the front end portion 40. Fig.23 In the example shown, eight point lights 433 are arranged in a perfect circle and irradiate the virtual plane VO. Furthermore, an extension line 42J intersects the inside of the irradiation range 430 of the eight point lights 433, and the intersection point P is located inside the irradiation range 430. According to this structure, by inserting the treatment instrument aiming at the inside of the irradiation range 430, the treatment instrument can easily reach the guide portion 42.

[0079] Fig.23 The eight lights 433 shown can be realized by, for example, arranging eight light emitting portions in a ring shape around the opening 42A and emitting point-shaped light in a direction along the extension line 42J from each light emitting portion.

[0080] exist Fig.23 In the structure shown in FIG. 1 , eight point lights 433 are arranged in a perfect circle and irradiate the virtual plane VO, but the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.24 As shown in FIG. 8 , eight point lights 433 may be arranged in an elliptical shape to illuminate the virtual plane VO. Fig.24 In the example of , the outer edge of the irradiation range 430 is elliptical, the major axis direction thereof is consistent with the axial direction X, and the minor axis direction thereof is consistent with the direction Y. According to this structure, by inserting the treatment instrument aiming at the inside of the irradiation range 430, the treatment instrument can easily reach the guide portion 42. In addition, the major axis direction of the irradiation range 430 is consistent with the axial direction X, so the insertion direction of the treatment instrument can be easily identified according to the shape of the irradiation range 430.

[0081] In addition, even if the Fig. 22 The light emitting portion of the entire irradiation range 430 of the perfect circular ring is set at the front end 40, or the light emitting portion of the full circular ring irradiation range 430 is set at the front end 40. Fig.23 The same effect can be obtained by setting the light emitting portion of the elliptical ring-shaped entire irradiation range 430 irradiated light at the front end 40. This circular ring-shaped or elliptical ring-shaped light is equivalent to the light formed by overlapping the two ends of the curved light, so it can be said to be a kind of linear light. This ring-shaped and linear light can be generated, for example, by shielding the central part of the point light with a large irradiation size.

[0082] The ultrasonic probe 1 described so far has the guide portion 42, but the guide portion 42 is not essential and can be omitted. Even if the ultrasonic probe 1 does not have the guide portion 42, it can be used as shown in the following example. Figure 7 , Fig.14 , Fig.16 , Fig. 20 , Fig.21 , Fig. 22 and Fig.24 The plurality of point lights or at least one linear light shown in the figure is irradiated onto the abdominal wall, and the arrangement direction of the ultrasound transducers 41A inserted from the outside of the subject into the subject can be easily recognized.

[0083] For example, sometimes the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic transducers 41A is aligned with the direction perpendicular to the spine of the subject, and the site is confirmed by ultrasonic images. In this case, the arrangement direction of the plurality of point-shaped lights or the extension direction of the linear lights irradiated to the abdominal wall (in Fig.24 In the example of FIG. 4 , the long axis direction of the irradiation range 430 is used to easily identify the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic transducers 41A relative to the spine. As a result, the desired examination can be performed efficiently.

[0084] The ultrasonic probe 1 may be an embedded type probe that does not have a support mechanism capable of maintaining the position of the distal end portion 40 and is moved or fixed by gripping with forceps or the like (see Fig.25 ). Fig.25 The embedded ultrasonic probe 1 shown has a structure in which a cable 60 having lower rigidity than the distal end 40 and having flexibility is provided at the proximal end of the distal end 40, and the proximal end of the cable 60 is connected to the control device 2. With respect to this embedded ultrasonic probe 1, the gripping portion 61 provided at the distal end 40 can be gripped and moved over a wide range using forceps or the like inserted from a trocar different from the trocar into which the ultrasonic probe 1 is inserted.

[0085] The ultrasonic probe 1 is preferably configured so that light is emitted from the light emitting portion when the distal end portion 40 is inserted into the subject, and light is not emitted from the light emitting portion when the distal end portion 40 is located outside the subject.

[0086] For example, when the control device 2 generates an ultrasonic image based on the output of the ultrasonic probe 1 and displays it on the display, if a light emission command from the user is received, the light emission unit is caused to emit light. Alternatively, the control device 2 detects the brightness of the environment in which the ultrasonic diagnostic device 100 is placed, and when the detected brightness is below a threshold, the light is emitted from the light emission unit. In a state where the insertion unit 10 is inserted into the subject, there is a high possibility that the brightness is below the threshold. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light from being emitted from the light emission unit in a state where the front end portion 40 is located outside the subject. Alternatively, the control device 2 may also obtain an image taken by an endoscope inserted into the trocar, and when it is determined that at least a part of the insertion unit 10 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is included in the image, the light is emitted from the light emission unit. The determination of whether the ultrasonic probe 1 is included in the image of the endoscope may be performed by a processor device connected to the endoscope, rather than by the control device 2, and the control device 2 may also be configured to obtain the determination result from the processor device.

[0087] As described above, this specification describes at least the following contents: In the following, components corresponding to the above-described embodiment are shown in brackets, but the present invention is not limited thereto. (1)

[0089] An ultrasonic probe (ultrasonic probe 1), comprising:

[0090] The front end portion (the front end portion 40) is provided with an ultrasonic vibrator (the ultrasonic vibrator 41A); and

[0091] The light emitting section (the first light emitting section 431 and the second light emitting section 432) is provided at the front end portion and emits light toward the side opposite to the side where the ultrasonic vibrator is provided.

[0092] The light emitting section emits a plurality of point-shaped lights (light 431L and light 432L) or line-shaped lights (light 432La). (2)

[0094] The ultrasonic probe according to (1) comprises:

[0095] A guide portion (guide portion 42) is provided at the front end portion and guides the treatment instrument.

[0096] The light emitting section emits the plurality of point-shaped lights or the linear light based on the shape of the guide section. (3)

[0098] The ultrasonic probe according to (2), wherein:

[0099] The guide portion is composed of a hole formed in the front end portion.

[0100] The light emitted by the light emitting portion includes light emitted in a direction along the inner wall surface of the hole. (4)

[0102] The ultrasonic probe according to (2), wherein:

[0103] The plurality of point lights emitted from the light emitting unit are arranged in one direction and irradiated onto the subject.

[0104] The guide portion is composed of a hole formed in the front end portion.

[0105] The emission direction of the spot-shaped light is inclined toward the extension line (extension line 42J) of the axis line of the hole relative to the extension direction of the extension line. (5)

[0107] The ultrasonic probe according to (2), wherein:

[0108] The guide portion is composed of a hole formed in the front end portion.

[0109] The plurality of point lights emitted from the light emitting section are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in a ring shape, or the linear light emitted from the light emitting section is irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in a ring shape,

[0110] The extended line (extension line 42J) of the axis of the hole crosses the inner side of the ring-shaped light irradiated onto the subject. (6)

[0112] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein:

[0113] The plurality of point lights emitted from the light emitting section are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in a ring shape, or the linear light emitted from the light emitting section is irradiated onto the subject in a state of being in a ring shape. (7)

[0115] The ultrasonic probe according to (6), wherein:

[0116] The annular shape is an ellipse or a perfect circle. (8)

[0118] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein:

[0119] The light emitting section includes a first light emitting section and a second light emitting section which are provided at positions opposing each other with the guide section interposed therebetween. (9)

[0121] The ultrasonic probe according to (8), wherein:

[0122] A first distance (first distance L1) between the first light emitting portion and the guide portion is different from a second distance (second distance L2) between the second light emitting portion and the guide portion. (10)

[0124] The ultrasonic probe according to (9), wherein:

[0125] The second light emitting portion is disposed on the front end side closer to the front end portion than the first light emitting portion.

[0126] The second distance is greater than the first distance. (11)

[0128] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein:

[0129] The light emitting section emits the plurality of point lights or the linear lights based on the arrangement of the ultrasonic transducers in the distal end portion. (12)

[0131] The ultrasonic probe according to (11), wherein

[0132] The light emitting section emits the plurality of spot lights arranged along the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic vibrators or the linear light extending along the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic vibrators. (13)

[0134] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein:

[0135] The light emitting unit includes a plurality of light sources. (14)

[0137] The ultrasonic probe according to (13), wherein:

[0138] The colors generated by the multiple light sources are different. (15)

[0140] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (14), wherein:

[0141] The light emitting section emits laser light. (16)

[0143] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (15), wherein:

[0144] The plurality of point lights are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged at intervals. (17)

[0146] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (16), wherein:

[0147] The light emitting unit emits a plurality of linear lights arranged in one direction.

[0148] The plurality of linear lights are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged at intervals. (18)

[0150] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (17), wherein:

[0151] The irradiation sizes of the plurality of point-shaped lights or the irradiation widths of the line-shaped lights are not uniform. (19)

[0153] The ultrasonic probe according to (18), wherein:

[0154] The irradiation size of the plurality of point-shaped lights or the irradiation width of the linear light is larger in a part of the range of the irradiation light than in other parts. (20)

[0156] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (19), wherein:

[0157] The light emitting section emits the plurality of linear lights (light 432Ls, light 432La) that intersect each other. (twenty one)

[0159] The ultrasonic probe according to any one of (1) to (20), wherein:

[0160] The light emitting unit dynamically changes the light.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic probe comprising: The front end portion is provided with an ultrasonic vibrator; and a light emitting section provided at the front end portion and emitting light toward a side opposite to a side where the ultrasonic vibrator is provided, The light emitting section emits a plurality of point-shaped lights or line-shaped lights.

2. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, comprising: a guide portion, provided at the front end portion and guiding the treatment tool, The light emitting portion emits the plurality of point-shaped lights or the linear light based on the shape of the guide portion.

3. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2, wherein: The guide portion is composed of a hole portion formed in the front end portion, The light emitted by the light emitting portion includes light emitted in a direction along the inner wall surface of the hole.

4. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of point lights emitted from the light emitting section are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in one direction. The guide portion is formed by a hole portion formed in the front end portion, The emission direction of the point-shaped light is inclined toward the extension line of the axis line of the hole relative to the extension direction of the extension line.

5. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2, wherein: The guide portion is formed by a hole portion formed in the front end portion, The plurality of point lights emitted from the light emitting section are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in a ring shape, or the linear light emitted from the light emitting section is irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in a ring shape, The extended lines of the axes of the hole portions intersect the inner side of the ring-shaped light irradiated onto the subject.

6. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of point lights emitted from the light emitting section are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged in a ring shape, or the linear light emitted from the light emitting section is irradiated onto the subject in a state of being in a ring shape.

7. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 6, wherein: The ring shape is an ellipse or a perfect circle.

8. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2, wherein: The light emitting section includes a first light emitting section and a second light emitting section which are provided at positions facing each other across the guide section.

9. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 8, wherein: A first distance between the first light emitting portion and the guide portion is different from a second distance between the second light emitting portion and the guide portion.

10. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 9, wherein: The second light emitting portion is provided on the front end side closer to the front end portion than the first light emitting portion. The second distance is greater than the first distance.

11. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein: The light emitting section emits the plurality of point lights or the line lights based on the arrangement of the ultrasound transducers in the distal end portion.

12. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 11, wherein: The light emitting unit emits the plurality of spot lights arranged along the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic vibrators or the linear light extending along the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic vibrators.

13. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The light emitting portion includes a plurality of light sources.

14. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 13, wherein: The colors generated by the multiple light sources are different.

15. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The light emitting section emits laser light.

16. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The plurality of point lights are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged at intervals.

17. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The light emitting unit emits a plurality of linear lights arranged in one direction. The plurality of linear lights are irradiated onto the subject in a state of being arranged at intervals.

18. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The irradiation sizes of the plurality of point-shaped lights or the irradiation widths of the line-shaped lights are not uniform.

19. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 18, wherein: The irradiation size of the plurality of point-shaped lights or the irradiation width of the linear light is larger in a part of the range of the irradiation light than in other parts.

20. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The light emitting section emits a plurality of the linear lights that intersect each other.

21. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The light emitting unit dynamically changes the light.

Images