Medical device

Abstract

The invention relates to a medical instrument. A medical device (10) comprising an elongate optical system (50) providing an optical axis (58) and comprising a plurality of rod lenses (52) relaying an image generated by an objective lens (24) near a distal end (12) of the medical device (10) to a proximal end region (16) of the medical device (10); a carriage (60) mechanically coupled to a proximal end region (55) of the optical system (5); and a plurality of resilient arrangements (70) that generate a force in the distal direction. The bracket (60) transmits a force to a proximal end region (55) of the optical system (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical device comprising an optical system, the proximal end of which needs to be offset in the distal direction. In particular, the present invention relates to a resectoscope or similar medical device, such as an intrauterine Bigatti shaver. It comprises a tube housing a working channel etc. and an optical system arranged close to the outer surface of the tube. Background Art

[0002] Many endoscopes and other medical instruments include an elongated optical system having several rod lenses that relay the image produced by an objective lens at the distal end of the medical instrument to a more proximal area, specifically the proximal end of the shaft or an eyepiece at the proximal region of the instrument. Reusable medical instruments must be sterilized after use. Sterilization in an autoclave, which provides a pure water vapor environment at a temperature of about 140°C, has many advantages. However, at high temperatures, the various components of the instrument expand in different ways. Therefore, many conventional endoscopes and other medical instruments with elongated optical systems include springs or other elastic elements that hold the series of optical components together under flexible compression. The coil spring is usually located between the two rod lenses or at the proximal end of the elongated optical system to absorb the expansion and contraction of the optical system during the autoclave sterilization process, thereby preventing damage to the components of the optical system, especially the delicate rod lenses. Summary of the invention

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved medical instrument comprising an elongated optical system.

[0004] This object is achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims.

[0005] Further embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0006] The medical device includes an elongated optical system that provides an optical axis and includes a plurality of rod lenses that relay an image produced by an objective lens near a distal end of the medical device to a proximal region of the medical device; a bracket that is mechanically coupled to the proximal region of the optical system; and a plurality of elastic arrangements that generate a force in a distal direction, wherein the bracket transmits the force to the proximal region of the optical system.

[0007] The image produced by the objective lens is the farthest real image. Specifically, the farthest real image produced by the objective lens is relayed by a first relay lens group that produces a first intermediate real image from the farthest real image, a second relay lens group that produces a second intermediate real image from the first intermediate real image, and so on. Among them, the first intermediate real image is close to the farthest real image, the second intermediate real image is close to the first intermediate real image, and so on. The first relay lens group is arranged between the farthest real image and the first intermediate real image, the second relay lens group is arranged between the first intermediate real image and the second intermediate real image, and so on.

[0008] At the proximal end of the optical system, the closest intermediate real image is produced by the closest relay lens group. People usually observe the closest intermediate real image through an ocular lens or eyepiece that produces a virtual image from the closest intermediate real image. Optionally, a camera can be connected to the ocular lens or eyepiece, and the camera captures the virtual image produced by the ocular lens or eyepiece. As a further alternative, a lens or lens group with a positive total refractive power produces a final real image in the photosensitive layer of the image sensor from the closest intermediate real image.

[0009] The number of intermediate real images is equal to the number of relay lens groups and can be any natural number. Each single relay lens group will invert the image. In the case of an odd number of relay lens groups, the closest intermediate real image is inverted.

[0010] Throughout this specification, the optical system includes all relay lens groups and produces the intermediate real image and the closest intermediate real image. Specifically, the optical system does not include an eyepiece or an eyepiece. As an alternative, the optical system may also include an eyepiece or an eyepiece, or a part of an eyepiece or an eyepiece.

[0011] Specifically, each relay lens group is composed of a pair of symmetrically arranged rod lenses. Specifically, each rod lens is a double lens of cemented or air-gap.

[0012] Specifically, the medical device includes an elongated shaft extending from a distal end of the medical device to a proximal region. The distal end of the shaft may form the distal end of the medical device. The shaft may be rigid or partially or completely flexible. The shaft may have a constant cross-section throughout its length.

[0013] Specifically, the proximal region is the proximal region of the medical device. Specifically, the medical device consists of the proximal region and an axis extending from the proximal region to the distal end of the medical device. The proximal region may include or consist of a handle. For example, the handle includes an eyepiece or an eyepiece and / or another interface with a camera, an image sensor or a camera including one or more image sensors, a light source providing illumination light, a connector receiving illumination light from the light source, a user interface receiving manual instructions on one or more dials, levers, switches, buttons or other controls.

[0014] The medical device may include a bearing that allows the proximal region of the optical system to move in a direction parallel to the optical axis of the optical system (particularly due to thermal expansion of the optical system) and guides the proximal region of the optical system in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0015] In particular, the bearing comprises or consists of an optical shaft which holds the components of the optical system like a sleeve. In particular, the optical shaft is a tube which extends substantially from the distal end of the optical system to the proximal end of the optical system. If the medical device comprises a shaft, the optical shaft can be arranged inside the shaft of the medical device. The cross section of the components of the optical system matches the transparent cross section or the inner cross section of the optical shaft, thereby providing a minimum gap but low friction between the components of the optical system and the inner surface of the optical shaft. All components of the optical system, in particular the rod lenses and the tube defining the distance between the rod lenses, only need to be slid into the optical shaft.

[0016] In particular, the proximal region of the optical system coupled to the bracket is formed by the proximal-most component of the optical system, such as a rod lens. In particular, the bracket is coupled to the proximal end of the proximal-most component of the optical system.

[0017] The connection between the bracket and the proximal region of the optical system can be provided by a surface area that is not bonded, welded, fused or permanently mechanically connected to each other in any other way, but only abuts each other. Specifically, the bracket can provide a distally oriented contact surface area, which only abuts the proximal oriented contact surface area of ​​the proximal region of the optical system and applies a distally directed force. The proximal oriented contact surface area can be a proximal oriented surface area of ​​an optical component, for example, a circular area of ​​the proximal light exit surface of the proximal rod lens. As an alternative, the proximal oriented contact surface area can be a proximal oriented surface area of ​​a component that is mechanically connected to the proximal region of the optical system in a rigid and permanent manner. For example, the component is bonded or welded to the side surface of the proximal rod lens of the optical system.

[0018] As an alternative, the bracket can be rigidly and permanently coupled to the proximal region of the optical system. For example, the bracket is glued or welded or fused to the proximal region of the optical system.

[0019] The plurality of elastic arrangements may comprise two, three or more elastic arrangements. All elastic arrangements in the plurality of elastic arrangements may be equal and provide the same elastic properties. As an alternative, the plurality of elastic arrangements may comprise different elastic arrangements providing different elastic properties.

[0020] Each of the resilient arrangements may be a component or element or part that is produced separately and then assembled with the bracket and other components of the medical device.

[0021] As an alternative, each of the elastic arrangements can be integrated with the bracket. Each of the elastic arrangements can be formed by an elastic region of the bracket. In particular, the shape and operation of the elastic region of the bracket are similar to conventional leaf springs.

[0022] Each of the plurality of elastic arrangements may be a spring made of an elastic metal material or other material that is at least partially elastic. Specifically, the elastic arrangement is a helical spring. As an alternative, each of the plurality of elastic arrangements may be a pair of magnets, for example, a pair of mutually repelling magnets.

[0023] Specifically, each of the elastic arrangements is compressed (e.g., compression springs), and when the length of the optical system increases due to the increase in temperature, its length decreases. As an alternative, some or all of the multiple elastic arrangements can be loaded with tension (e.g., tension springs or extension springs), and when the length of the optical system increases due to the increase in temperature, their length also increases. As another alternative, some or all of the multiple elastic arrangements can be leaf springs or torsion bars or other types of elastic parts.

[0024] The forces generated by the elastic arrangement and the reaction forces of the distal region of the optical system exert bending loads on the bracket or a region of the bracket. The bracket can be designed to be rigid to withstand such bending loads. As an alternative, the elastic region of the bracket can form the elastic arrangement or be part of the elastic arrangement.

[0025] Multiple elastic arrangements and brackets significantly reduce design constraints, especially constraints on the design of elastic arrangements. Specifically, the diameter of the coil spring can be large even when the proximal region of the optical system is located in a narrow space or very close to another component of the medical device. For example, when the entire optical system is arranged in parallel and adjacent to the working channel, the diameter of a conventional coil spring pressing the proximal surface of the optical system cannot be larger than the diameter of the optical system. When the force of multiple elastic arrangements is transmitted to the proximal region of the optical system by the bracket, the elastic arrangement can deviate from the axis arrangement and can be much larger. In this case, the geometry of the bracket arrangement also has similar limitations. However, as a more or less rigid component, the bracket is easier to miniaturize than a coil spring or other elastic member.

[0026] In a medical device as described herein, multiple elastic arrangements specifically provide similar mechanical properties, wherein each of the multiple elastic arrangements is in mechanical contact with a corresponding one of multiple support points or support areas at a rigid portion of the medical device, and wherein the multiple support points or support areas are arranged symmetrically with respect to an optical axis of the optical system.

[0027] In particular, all support areas are similar. For example, in the case of a helical spring, the support area may be circular or annular. Each of the support areas may be located in a corresponding recess, which geometrically defines the position of the corresponding end of the corresponding elastic arrangement. In the case of a helical spring, a protrusion may be located in an annular contact area, which geometrically defines the position of the end of the helical spring.

[0028] In the medical device described herein, the multiple elastic arrangements are specifically embodied as separately produced components, wherein the multiple elastic arrangements provide similar mechanical properties, wherein the bracket is in mechanical contact with each of the multiple elastic arrangements in a corresponding one of the multiple contact areas, and wherein the multiple contact areas are arranged symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0029] In particular, the elastic arrangements provide the same mechanical properties. One end or one side of each elastic arrangement is in mechanical contact with the bracket, wherein the other end or the other side of each elastic arrangement is in mechanical contact with a support point or support area at the rigid structure of the medical device.

[0030] In particular, all contact points or contact areas are similar. For example, in the case of a helical spring, the contact area may be circular or annular. Each of the contact points or contact areas may be located in a corresponding recess, which geometrically defines the position of the corresponding end of the corresponding elastic arrangement. In the case of a helical spring, a protrusion may be located in the annular contact area, which protrusion geometrically defines the position of the end of the helical spring.

[0031] In the case of two elastic arrangements, the optical axis of the optical system is located between the two supporting points or supporting areas, and the optical axis of the optical system and the supporting points or supporting areas are both arranged in the same plane. In the case of two elastic arrangements being separately produced components, the optical axis of the optical system is located between the two contact points or contact areas, and the optical axes of the optical system and the contact points or contact areas are both arranged in the same plane.

[0032] In the case of the three elastic arrangements, each support point defines one of three planes including the optical axis of the optical system. The angular distance between the three planes is 60 degrees.

[0033] In the case where the three elastic arrangements are separately produced components, each contact point defines one of three planes including the optical axis of the optical system. The angular distance between these three planes is 60 degrees.

[0034] As an alternative, the elastic arrangement, the support points or support areas and, if applicable, the contact points or contact areas are arranged asymmetrically.

[0035] In the medical device described herein, the bracket is specifically a yoke extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system, wherein a central region of the bracket is mechanically coupled to a proximal end of the optical system, and wherein each end of the bracket is mechanically biased in a distal direction by at least one of a plurality of elastic arrangements.

[0036] In particular, the yoke is a rigid beam, wherein the cross section of the beam may be rectangular or provide any other shape, and wherein the cross section is substantially constant or varies continuously or abruptly along the beam. The mechanical coupling of the central region of the bracket to the proximal region of the optical system may need to deviate from a simple beam shape. The mechanical coupling or even the contact region connected to the respective ends of the elastic arrangement may need to deviate further from a simple beam shape.

[0037] Specifically, the medical device as described herein further includes a tube forming at least one of a working channel for inserting other medical devices, a fluid channel for supplying fluid to the distal end of the medical device, and a fluid channel for facilitating aspiration of fluid from the distal end of the medical device, wherein the optical system is arranged near the outer surface of the tube.

[0038] Specifically, the tube is cylindrical, having a circular, elliptical or other cross-section, and the longitudinal axis or axis of symmetry of the tube is parallel to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0039] Specifically, the optical system is arranged close to the outer surface of the tube, and the rod lens or the optical shaft accommodating the rod lens is adjacent to the outer surface of the tube. In this case, a conventional design with a coil spring that directly biases the proximal end of the optical system in the distal direction would require an optical system of large diameter. However, in many applications, the diameter of the optical system is reduced as much as possible in order to maximize the ratio between the internal cross-section of the tube and the external cross-section of the medical device shaft. When the diameter of the optical system is less than 2 mm, a mechanically strong coil spring with a corresponding diameter and reproducible mechanical properties is a challenge. Even when the optical system is arranged close to the tube, the bracket that transmits the force generated by the elastic arrangement allows the size of the elastic arrangement to be largely independent of the diameter of the optical system.

[0040] In the medical device described herein, the bracket particularly comprises a surface area whose shape corresponds to the shape of the outer surface of the tube.

[0041] In this case, the tube can be used as a rail to guide the carriage.

[0042] For example, when the tube (more precisely: the outer surface of the tube) is a cylinder having a predetermined first diameter, the surface area is a cutout of the surface of the cylinder having a second diameter equal to or slightly larger than the first diameter.

[0043] The medical device as described herein specifically further comprises a reflective interface that reflects the relayed image away from the optical axis of the optical system, wherein the reflective interface is located at the proximal end of the bracket.

[0044] The reflective interface may be a first surface mirror, a second surface mirror, an interface based on total internal reflection or any other reflective interface.

[0045] Specifically, the angles between the normal of the reflective interface and the optical axis of the optical system are 45 degrees and 135 degrees, wherein the optical axis is at a 90 degree angle to the reflective interface. If the medical device provides an axis, the optical axis is specifically bent away from the center of the axis. If the medical device provides a tube forming a working channel or a fluid channel, the optical axis is specifically bent away from the tube.

[0046] Specifically, the position of the reflective interface downstream of the proximal end of the optical system is adjusted during manufacturing or maintenance, but is static during customer use, cleaning, and autoclaving. In this case, the position of the optical axis downstream of the reflective interface is not changed by any axial movement of the proximal region of the optical system.

[0047] In the medical device described herein, the bracket specifically includes a central through hole for accommodating the proximal end of the optical system.

[0048] Specifically, the cross section of the through hole is adapted to the cross section of the proximal end of the optical system.

[0049] The through hole may be provided with a collar. Near the collar, the cross section of the through hole is slightly reduced and is smaller than the cross section of the proximal end of the optical system. In this case, the collar may form the above-mentioned contact area that mechanically couples the bracket to the proximal end of the optical system.

[0050] As an alternative, the inner surface of the through hole may be glued or welded or soldered to the proximal region of the optical system.

[0051] In the medical device described herein, the bracket is in particular rigidly connected to the proximal end of the optical system.

[0052] For example, a rigid connection may be formed by a tight fit, adhesive, solder, welded joints, etc.

[0053] When the carriage is rigidly connected to the proximal end of the optical system, there is no need to guide both the proximal region of the optical system and the carriage. When the proximal region of the optical system is guided, for example in a tube or shaft with a corresponding cross-section, no linear motion bearings or other means of guiding the carriage are required. When the carriage is guided by any type of linear motion bearings or other means of guiding the carriage, no bearings are required to guide the proximal region of the optical system.

[0054] The medical device as described herein, specifically, also includes a kinematic pair that mechanically connects the proximal region of the optical system to a bracket, which allows at least one of translational movement of the bracket relative to the proximal end of the optical system in at least one direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system and rotation of the bracket relative to the proximal end of the optical system around at least one axis perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0055] Specifically, the kinematic joint forms a hinge or joint to reduce or prevent the transmission of forces and torques perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0056] Specifically, the kinematic pair is formed by a first surface area of ​​the bracket and a second surface area at a proximal region of the optical system or a member rigidly connected to the proximal region of the optical system. The first surface area adjoins the second surface area in at least one point, a line or a two-dimensional region. Specifically, the mechanical contact allows the transmission of forces perpendicular to the first and second surface areas. Specifically, rotation is allowed in a small angle region of a few degrees or more.

[0057] Specifically, the translation and / or rotational movement of the bracket relative to the proximal region of the optical system greatly reduces the transmission of unnecessary or undesirable forces perpendicular to the optical axis. This can reduce the risk of tilting of the proximal region of the optical system, such as tilting of the rod lens closest to the optical axis.

[0058] The medical device as described herein specifically further comprises a bearing which allows the carriage to move in a direction parallel to the optical axis of the optical system and guides the carriage in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0059] This bearing can reduce the dynamically generated lateral forces transmitted to the proximal region of the optical system.

[0060] In the medical device described herein, the plurality of elastic arrangements are specifically coil springs, wherein the bracket includes at least one of a protrusion received in one end of one of the plurality of coil springs and a recess received in one end of one of the plurality of coil springs.

[0061] The form fit or positive lock between one end of the coil spring and the bracket facilitates quick and easy assembly and significantly reduces unnecessary displacement of the coil spring.

[0062] In the medical device described herein, the axis of the coil spring is specifically parallel to the optical axis of the optical system.

[0063] Specifically, the medical device described herein is a shaver, a resectoscope, or includes a working channel for receiving a shaver or a resectoscope. A shaver is a medical device that surgically removes tissue by rotating a blade. A resectoscope is a medical device that surgically removes tissue using an electric current. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a medical device is shown;

[0066] Figure 2 Shows passing through Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a longitudinal cross section of a proximal region of a medical device is shown;

[0067] Figure 3 Shows passing through Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another longitudinal cross-section of the proximal region of the medical device is shown;

[0068] Figure 4 Shows passing through Figures 1 to 3 A schematic diagram of a transverse cross section of a proximal region of a medical device is shown;

[0069] Figure 5 a schematic diagram showing a longitudinal section through a proximal region of another medical device;

[0070] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a longitudinal section through the proximal region of another medical device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a medical device 10 is shown having a distal end 12 and a proximal end 14 formed by a handle 16. Figure 1 In the example shown, the eyepiece is provided at the handle 16. The medical device 10 includes or can accommodate a Bigatti shaver 18. Figure 1 In the figure, the Bigatti planer 18 is shown in dotted lines because the Bigatti planer 18 can be either a permanent part of the medical device or can be inserted into the medical device only during a medical procedure.

[0072] The medical device 10 comprises a shaft 20. The shaft 20 and the components located within the shaft 20 are shown in longitudinal section, while the remainder of the medical device and the Bigatti planer are shown in side view.

[0073] In the example shown, the shaft 20 is formed of a straight rigid tube providing a circular cross-section. The proximal end 24 of the shaft 20 may be permanently mechanically connected to the handle 16 of the medical device 10. Alternatively, a proximal end 24 of the shaft 20 may be provided between the proximal end 24 of the shaft 20 and the handle 16. Figure 1 Releasable joint not shown in .

[0074] The distal end 22 of the shaft 20 forms the distal end 12 of the medical device 10, or is disposed proximate to the distal end 12 of the medical device 10. When the Bigatti shaver 18 is not part of the medical device 10, the distal end 22 of the shaft 20 forms the distal end 12 of the medical device. If the Bigatti shaver 18 is a permanent part of the medical device 10, the distal end of the Bigatti shaver 18 forms the distal end 12 of the medical device 10.

[0075] An optical shaft 30 formed of a tube having a circular cross section is arranged in the shaft 20. The cross section of the optical shaft 30 is much smaller than the cross section of the shaft 20. In the example shown, the distal end 32 of the optical shaft 30 is substantially flush with the distal end 22 of the shaft 20. As an alternative, the distal end 32 of the optical shaft 30 may protrude from the distal end 22 of the shaft 20. As a further alternative, the distal end 32 of the optical shaft 30 may be retracted relative to the distal end 22 of the shaft 20.

[0076] The outer surface 34 of the optical shaft 30 abuts in a straight line on the inner surface 26 of the shaft 20. The outer surface 34 of the optical shaft 30 may be permanently connected to the inner surface 26 of the shaft 20, for example, by a welded, soldered or adhesive joint.

[0077] An objective lens 36 that produces a real image of an object located at the distal end 32 of the optical axis 30 is located at the distal end 32 of the optical axis 20 and hermetically closes the optical axis 30. Specifically, the optical axis of the objective lens 36 is identical to the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30. The optical system is arranged in the optical axis 30, but at Figure 1 Not shown.

[0078] A working channel tube 40 is disposed in the shaft 20. In the present example, the cross-section of the working channel tube 40 is circular. The lumen 42 of the working channel tube 40 forms a working channel of the shaft that accommodates the Bigatti shaver 18. Alternatively, the lumen 42 of the tube 40 may be part of a fluid conduit for supplying fluid to the distal end 12 of the medical device 10 or for facilitating the aspiration of fluid from the distal end 12 of the medical device 10. Alternatively, the lumen 42 of the tube 40 may be used as a conduit for other tools involved in the surgical intervention.

[0079] The outer surface 44 of the working channel tube 40 abuts the outer surface 34 of the optical shaft 30 in a straight line. The outer surface 44 of the working channel tube 40 can be permanently mechanically connected to the outer surface 34 of the optical shaft 30, such as by a welded, soldered or adhesive joint. Alternatively, the working channel shaft 40 can be separated from the medical device 10, for example, withdrawn in the proximal direction. The sum of the outer diameter of the optical shaft 30 and the outer diameter of the working channel tube 40 is equal to or slightly less than the inner diameter of the shaft 20. The symmetry axis 38 of the optical shaft 30 and the symmetry axis 48 of the working channel tube 40 are parallel.

[0080] Figure 2A schematic enlarged view of a longitudinal section through the handle 16 of the medical device 10 is shown. The section plane is parallel to Figure 1 and includes the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30 and the symmetry axis 48 of the working channel tube 40.

[0081] exist Figure 2 In FIG. 4 , it can be seen that the optical axis 30 is adjacent to the working channel tube 40 .

[0082] The optical shaft 30 contains and holds an optical system 50, which includes a plurality of rod lenses 52. The position of the distal end of the optical system 50 is defined by the position of the objective lens 36 rigidly mechanically connected to the distal end 32 of the optical shaft 30 (see Figure 1 and corresponding description). A thin-walled tubular spacer having a predetermined length ( Figure 1 The proximal region 55 of the optical system 50 is formed by the proximal rod lenses 54 of the optical system 50. The optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 is identical to the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30.

[0083] The material of the optical shaft 30 and the material of the rod lenses 52, 54 provide different thermal expansion coefficients. Therefore, heating the medical device 10 during the autoclave step causes different thermal expansion of the optical shaft 30 and the optical system 50, and movement of the proximal region 55 and the proximal end 56 of the optical system 50 relative to the proximal end of the optical shaft 30.

[0084] The proximal region 55 of the optical system 50 is guided in the optical axis 30 and mechanically coupled to the bracket 60. In the present example, the proximal region 55 of the optical system is received in a central through hole 64 in the bracket 60. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described in more detail, bracket 60 provides a Figure 2 The shape of the yoke extending in the direction of the cross section.

[0085] Bracket 60 and Figure 2 The cross section of the bracket 60 is symmetrical. The bracket 60 includes two protrusions 66, which are formed as pins or studs protruding in the proximal direction. Figure 2 One of these protrusions 66 can be seen in FIG. Each of the protrusions 66 is received in the distal end 72 of a corresponding helical spring 70. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the proximal end of the coil spring 70 is covered.

[0086] The prism 82 provides a reflective interface 84. In the example shown, the reflective interface 84 is a first surface mirror, and the angle between the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 and the reflective interface 84 is 45 degrees. Thus, the reflective interface 84 deflects the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 by 90 degrees.

[0087] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another longitudinal section through the handle 16 of the medical device 10 is shown. Figure 3 Section III-III and Figure 2 The section II-II is perpendicular and includes the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30 and the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 accommodated in the optical axis 30 . Figure 3 The position of section III-III is as follows Figure 2 shown. Figure 2 The position of section II-II is as follows Figure 3 shown.

[0088] Bracket 60 and Figure 2 The cross section II-II of the bracket 60 is mirror-symmetrical. The cross section of the central through hole 64 of the bracket 60 decreases at the proximal end of the central through hole. As a result, the collar supports the edge of the proximal end 56 of the optical system 50.

[0089] The symmetry axes 78 of the two coil springs 70 are parallel to the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50. The symmetry axes 78 of the two coil springs 70 and the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 are in the same plane, that is, Figure 3 The symmetry axes 78 of the two helical springs 70 are equidistant from the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50. The two helical springs 70 provide the same geometric and mechanical properties.

[0090] The proximal end 74 of each coil spring 70 is received in a corresponding recess 88 in a support rigidly connected to the handle 16, specifically, in the main body member of the handle 16. Each of the coil springs 70 is compressed between the corresponding recess 88 and the bracket 60. Thus, the two coil springs bias the bracket 60 in the distal direction. The bracket 60 transmits this biasing force to the proximal end 56 of the optical system 50.

[0091] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a cross section through the handle 16 of the medical device 10 is shown. Figure 4 Section IV-IV and Figure 2 The section II-II is perpendicular to Figure 3 The section III-III is perpendicular to the optical axis 30 and is perpendicular to the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30 and the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 accommodated in the optical axis 30. Figure 4 The position of section IV-IV is as follows Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown. Figure 2 The position of section II-II and Figure 3 The position of section III-III is as follows Figure 4 shown.

[0092] The bracket 60 provides a yoke shape extending perpendicularly to the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30, which is the same as the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50. The symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30 and the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 and the symmetry axis 78 of the coil spring 70 are located in the same plane, that is, Figure 3 Section III-III.

[0093] The bracket 60 provides a conformal surface region 62 that conforms to the outer surface 44 of the working channel tube 40. In the example shown, there is a thin air gap between the conformal surface region 62 of the bracket 60 and the outer surface 44 of the working channel tube 40. This small gap avoids friction when the bracket 60 moves.

[0094] Alternatively, the conformal region 62 abuts and slides against the outer surface 44 of the working channel tube 40. In this case, the conformal surface region 62 and the outer surface 44 of the working channel tube 40 form a linear motion bearing that guides the carriage 60 along a predetermined path parallel to the axis of symmetry 48 of the working channel tube.

[0095] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a longitudinal section through a handle 16 of another medical device 10 is shown. Figure 5 The cross section is similar to Figure 3 The cross section III-III of FIG. 1 includes the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30 , the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 accommodated in the optical axis 30 , and the symmetry axis 78 of the coil spring 70 .

[0096] Figure 5 Many of the features, characteristics, and functions of the illustrated embodiments are similar to those of the reference Figures 1 to 4 The features, characteristics and functions of the described embodiments are similar.

[0097] Figure 5 The embodiment shown and reference Figures 1 to 4 The embodiment described differs in that the bracket 60 is neither rigidly connected nor directly coupled to the proximal region 54 of the optical system 50. Instead, a cap or sleeve 90 is rigidly connected to the proximal region 54 of the optical system 50. The sleeve 90 and the proximal region 55 of the optical system 50 may be mechanically connected by adhesive, welding or soldering or in other ways. Alternatively, the proximal region 54 of the optical system 50 is merely contained in the sleeve 90. In this case, an inwardly directed collar at the proximal end of the sleeve 90 supports a rounded edge at the proximal end 56 of the optical system 50.

[0098] The distally oriented surface region 68 of the carrier 60 abuts against the proximally oriented surface region 96 of the sleeve 90. As a result, the bias generated by the helical spring 70 is transferred from the carrier 60 to the sleeve 90 and the proximal end region 54 of the optical system 50.

[0099] The distally oriented surface area 68 of the bracket 60 can slide laterally on the proximally oriented surface area 96 of the sleeve 90. As a result, forces perpendicular to the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 cannot be transmitted from the bracket 60 to the sleeve 90 and the proximal region 55 of the optical system 50. Only forces parallel to the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 can be transmitted to the proximal region 55 of the optical system 50. This protects the optical system 50 from harmful loads.

[0100] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a longitudinal section through a handle 16 of another medical device 10 is shown. Figure 5 The cross section is similar to Figure 3 and Figure 5 and includes the symmetry axis 38 of the optical axis 30 and the optical axis 58 of the optical system 50 accommodated in the optical axis 30.

[0101] Figure 6 Many of the features, characteristics, and functions of the illustrated embodiments are similar to those of the reference Figures 1 to 5 The features, characteristics and functions of the described embodiments are similar.

[0102] In the above reference Figures 1 to 5 In the depicted embodiment, two coil springs 70 bias the bracket 60 in the distal direction. Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, a step 92 is provided in the handle 16, and the elastic arrangement is formed by an elastic rod 94, the end of which is supported by the step 92. In the example shown, the elastic rod 94 is an essential part of the bracket 60. The elastic rod 94 has elasticity due to its geometry, in particular due to its thin cross section. The elastic rod 94 forms a kind of leaf spring.

[0103] As an alternative, other elastic arrangements can be used, for example, members made of elastomers or leaf springs. More than two elastic arrangements can be used, for example, three or four elastic arrangements. The elastic arrangements can provide different geometric and mechanical characteristics. However, it is advantageous that the multiple elastic arrangements do not exert a net moment on the proximal region 54 of the optical system 50.

[0104] Reference numerals list

[0105] 10 Medical Devices

[0106] 12 distal end of the medical device 10

[0107] 14 Proximal end of medical device 10

[0108] 16 A handle near the proximal end 14 of the medical device 10

[0109] 18Bigatti Planer

[0110] 20 Medical Devices 10 Axis

[0111] 22 distal end of shaft 20

[0112] 24 Proximal end of shaft 20

[0113] 26 Inner surface of shaft 20

[0114] 30 axis 20 in the optical axis

[0115] 32 distal end of optical axis 30

[0116] 34 outer surface of the optical axis 30

[0117] 36 Objective lens at the distal end 32 of the optical axis 30

[0118] 38 optical axis 30 symmetry axis

[0119] Working channel tube in 40 axis 20

[0120] 42 forms the inner lumen of the working channel tube 40 of the working channel or fluid conduit

[0121] 44 the outer surface of the working channel tube 40

[0122] 48 The symmetry axis of the inner cavity 42 of the working channel tube 40

[0123] 50Optical systems for medical devices 10

[0124] 52 rod lens of optical system 50

[0125] 54 The closest rod lens

[0126] 55 proximal region of the optical system 50

[0127] 56 proximal end of optical system 50

[0128] 58 optical axis of optical system 50

[0129] 60 brackets

[0130] 62 Conformal surface area of ​​bracket 60

[0131] 64 center through hole of bracket 60

[0132] 66 protrusion of bracket 60

[0133] 68 distally oriented surface area of ​​the bracket 60, which abuts on the proximally oriented surface area 96 of the sleeve 90 70 helical spring

[0134] 72 Distal end of coil spring 70

[0135] 74 proximal end of the coil spring 70

[0136] 78 axis of symmetry of coil spring 70

[0137] 82 Prism

[0138] 84 Reflection interface at prism 82

[0139] 88 A groove in the support member that receives the proximal end 72 of the spring 70

[0140] 90 sleeve at the proximal end 56 of the optical system 50

[0141] 92 support step in handle 16

[0142] 94 elastic rod of bracket 60

[0143] The proximal surface area of ​​the sleeve 96 abuts against the distal surface area 68 of the bracket 60.

Claims

1. A medical device (10), comprising: an elongated optical system (50) providing an optical axis (58) and comprising a plurality of rod lenses (52) that relay an image produced by an objective lens (24) near a distal end (12) of the medical device (10) to a proximal region (16) of the medical device (10); a bracket (60) mechanically coupled to the proximal region (55) of the optical system (50), a plurality of resilient arrangements (70) which generate a force in a distal direction, The bracket (60) transmits force to the proximal region (55) of the optical system (50).

2. The medical device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein The bracket (60) is a yoke extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis (58) of the optical system (50). The central region (64) of the bracket (60) is mechanically coupled to the proximal region (55) of the optical system (50), Each of the ends of the bracket (60) is mechanically biased in a distal direction by at least one of the plurality of resilient arrangements (70).

3. The medical device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a tube (40) forming at least one of a working channel for inserting the medical device or another component of another medical device, a fluid channel for supplying fluid to the distal end (12) of the medical instrument (10), and a fluid channel for facilitating aspiration of fluid from the distal end (12) of the medical device (10), The optical system (50) is arranged adjacent to the outer surface of the tube (40).

4. The medical device (10) according to the preceding claim, The bracket (60) includes a surface area (62) having a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer surface (44) of the tube (40).

5. The medical device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a reflective interface (84) that reflects the relayed image away from the optical axis (58) of the optical system (50), The reflective interface (84) is located at the proximal end of the bracket (60).

6. The medical device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, The bracket (60) includes a central through hole (64) for accommodating the proximal end (56) of the optical system (50).

7. The medical device (10) according to the preceding claim, Wherein the bracket (60) is rigidly connected to the proximal end (56) of the optical system (50).

8. The medical device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the plurality of elastic arrangements (70) are coil springs, The bracket (60) includes at least one of a protrusion (66) received in one end (72) of one of the plurality of coil springs (70) and a recessed portion received in one end of one of the plurality of coil springs (70).

9. The medical device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the axis (78) of the helical spring (70) is parallel to the optical axis (58) of the optical system (50).

10. The medical device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the medical device (10) is a shaver or a resectoscope, or comprises a working channel (42) for receiving a shaver or a resectoscope.

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