Optical fiber probe

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide an optical fiber probe (1) capable of emitting light having high beam quality in a direction inclined with respect to the insertion direction of an optical transmission cable (10) while suppressing heat generation during irradiation. In order to solve the problem, this medical fiber-optic probe (1) is provided with: an optical transmission cable (10) that transmits light emitted from a light source and emits transmitted laser light (L) from a tip section (13); an elongated buckling holding member (40) which is disposed along the optical transmission cable (10) on at least the front end portion (13) side of the optical transmission cable (10) and which can hold a buckling state; a tubular member (30) into which the optical transmission cable (10) and the buckling holding member (40) are inserted; and a holding section (60) that holds the relative positions of the optical transmission cable (10), the buckling holding member (40), and the tubular member (30) unchanged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an optical fiber probe for medical use. Background Art

[0002] In the past, in the medical field, optical fiber probes were used to be inserted into the human body and irradiate light to cells. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a side-emitting device in which a prism lens is arranged at one end of an optical fiber, and the prism lens has a front end inclined surface coated with Au. For example, in photoimmunotherapy, which is one of the treatments for cancer, the optical fiber probe is used to insert the front end side of an optical transmission cable into the human body and irradiate laser light to a drug that is administered to the human body and reaches cancer cells.

[0003] [Prior Technical Literature]

[0004] (Patent Document)

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4659137 Summary of the invention

[0006] [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, in photoimmunotherapy, it is necessary to irradiate light while the front end side of the optical transmission cable is inserted into the human body or positioned near the tumor surface. In the case of organs such as the intestine or esophagus, cancer cells that are the irradiation targets are mostly present on the side of the organ tube, and it is important to irradiate light efficiently at an angle relative to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable. According to Patent Document 1, although light can be irradiated in a direction inclined relative to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable by using a prism lens with a front end inclined surface, problems such as heat generation or beam breakage may sometimes occur.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide an optical fiber probe capable of emitting light with high beam quality in a direction inclined with respect to the insertion direction of an optical transmission cable while suppressing heat generation during irradiation.

[0009] [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0010] (1) A medical optical fiber probe comprising: an optical transmission cable for transmitting light emitted from a light source and emitting the transmitted light from a front end portion; an elongated bending holding member disposed along the optical transmission cable on at least the front end side of the optical transmission cable and capable of maintaining a bent state; a tubular member for inserting the optical transmission cable and the bending holding member; and a holding portion for maintaining the relative positions of the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member and the tubular member.

[0011] (2) The optical fiber probe according to (1), wherein the holding portion holds the optical transmission cable at least in the axial direction, and the relative positions among the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member, and the tubular member do not change.

[0012] (3) The optical fiber probe according to (1), wherein the bending retaining member is formed of a metal wire.

[0013] (4) The optical fiber probe according to (3), wherein the optical fiber probe includes a protective member that covers an outer peripheral surface of the metal wire.

[0014] (5) An optical fiber probe according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the holding portion has a restraining member, which is arranged along the outer peripheral surface of the tubular member and fixes the relative positions of the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member and the tubular member.

[0015] (6) The optical fiber probe according to (5), wherein the holding portion includes an intervening member disposed along the optical transmission cable and the bending holding member.

[0016] (7) An optical fiber probe according to (6), wherein the retaining portion includes a limiting component, which is formed in a manner to fill a gap between the optical transmission cable, the bending retaining component and the clamping component in the tubular component, and limits the movement of the optical transmission cable, the bending retaining component and the clamping component.

[0017] (8) An optical fiber probe according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the optical fiber probe has a light refraction portion, the light refraction portion is provided on the front end portion side of the optical transmission cable, and emits light emitted from the front end portion of the optical transmission cable at an angle greater than a specified angle relative to the axial direction of the optical transmission cable, the retaining portion is retained at least in the axial direction of the optical transmission cable, and the relative positions of the optical transmission cable, the flexure retaining member, and the tubular member relative to the light refraction portion do not change.

[0018] (9) An optical fiber probe according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the optical transmission cable has a bending portion on the front end side that bends together with the bending retaining member, and the optical transmission cable, the bending retaining member and the tubular member are accommodated in a catheter, which is used to be inserted into the pipeline of an endoscope and has an outer diameter of less than 3 mm.

[0019] (10) The optical fiber probe according to (8), wherein the bending radius of the bending portion is 2 cm or less.

[0020] (11) The optical fiber probe according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the optical transmission cable extends further in the light emission direction than the bend retaining member.

[0021] (12) A medical optical fiber probe comprises: an optical transmission cable for transmitting light emitted from a light source and emitting the transmitted light from a front end portion; an elongated tubular bending retaining component for accommodating the optical transmission cable on at least the front end side of the optical transmission cable and being arranged along the optical transmission cable so as to maintain a bent state; and a second retaining portion for maintaining the relative position between the optical transmission cable and the tubular bending retaining component unchanged at least in the axial direction of the optical transmission cable.

[0022] (Effects of the Invention)

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to emit light with high beam quality in a direction inclined with respect to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable while suppressing heat generation during irradiation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a side view showing the optical fiber probe according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This is an enlarged side view of the front end side of the optical fiber probe according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 III-III cross-sectional view.

[0027] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a fiber optic probe according to a second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0028] Figure 5 It is a side view showing a fiber optic probe according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 It is a side view showing a fiber optic probe according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 is a diagram showing a fiber optic probe according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0031] Figure 8 is a diagram showing a fiber optic probe according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0032] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a seventh embodiment of the optical fiber probe of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0033] Fig.10 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0034] Fig.11 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0035] Fig.12 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0036] Fig.13 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram.

[0037] Fig.14 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 The corresponding cross-section diagram. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. In addition, the figures referred to in the following description only schematically show shapes, sizes and positional relationships to the extent that the present disclosure can be understood. That is, the present invention is not limited to the shapes, sizes and positional relationships illustrated in the figures.

[0039] <First embodiment>

[0040] Reference Figure 1 to Figure 3 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 is a side view of the optical fiber probe 1. Figure 2 This is an enlarged side view showing the front end side of the optical fiber probe 1 housed in the protective tube for the endoscope. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 In addition, in Figure 2 In the figure, the holding portion 60 is omitted.

[0041] The optical fiber probe 1 of this embodiment is mounted on a medical device for performing photoimmunotherapy, which is one of the treatment methods for cancer. Photoimmunotherapy treats cancer by administering to the human body a drug consisting of an antibody that binds to cancer cells and a substance that reacts with light, and irradiating the drug that binds to cancer cells with a laser to destroy the cancer cells. In addition, the present invention can also be used for treatment methods using lasers such as photodynamic therapy, and is not limited to photoimmunotherapy.

[0042] The optical fiber probe 1 is used, for example, in a state of being inserted into a pipeline provided in an endoscope. The optical fiber probe 1 of this embodiment is accommodated in a catheter 100 with its front end side bent, and the catheter 100 is used to be inserted into the pipeline of the endoscope. The catheter 100 is a hose with an outer diameter H of 3 mm or less. Therefore, the front end side of the optical fiber probe 1 is preferably bent within a range that can be accommodated in a hose with an outer diameter H of 3 mm or less. In addition, the optical fiber probe 1 is accommodated in the catheter 100 in a manner that the front end of the optical fiber probe 1 irradiated with the laser L can be exposed to the outside.

[0043] Fiber optic probe 1 Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the optical fiber probe 1 includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refracting portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protective member 50, a holding portion 60, and a cable protective member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 irradiates a laser beam L generated by a laser oscillator (not shown) as a light source. In the optical fiber probe 1, the holding portion 60 is arranged at the outermost side, and the light refracting portion 20, the optical transmission cable 10, and the bending holding member 40 are arranged at the innermost side. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the figure, a portion exposed to the outside is indicated by a solid line, and a portion covered by other components and not exposed to the outside is indicated by a dotted line.

[0044] The laser oscillator has a semiconductor laser, and when the semiconductor laser is energized, laser oscillation occurs to generate laser light L. The laser oscillator generates red laser light L having a wavelength of 600 nm to 700 nm. The laser light L generated by the laser oscillator may be a continuous wave or a pulse wave.

[0045] The optical transmission cable 10 is an optical fiber cable having an optical transmission path that transmits laser light L emitted by a laser oscillator. The optical transmission cable 10 is provided with a laser oscillator at the base end side, and transmits the laser light L emitted by the laser oscillator through the optical transmission path and emits it from the front end 13. In the present embodiment, the optical refraction part 20 is connected to the front end 13 of the optical transmission cable 10. That is, in the present embodiment, the optical transmission cable 10 emits the transmitted laser light L toward the light refraction part 20.

[0046] The optical transmission cable 10 of the present embodiment is a plastic fiber, having a core 11 as an optical transmission path and a cladding 12 formed on the periphery of the core 11. The optical transmission cable 10 has an outer diameter of 500 μm, for example, and the outer diameter of the core 11 is 250 μm. The core 11 preferably has an outer diameter corresponding to the size of a multimode fiber. In addition, the optical transmission cable 10 of the present embodiment is a single-core optical fiber, but it can also be a multi-core optical fiber. In addition, the optical transmission cable 10 can also be an optical fiber composed of a quartz-based material. In addition, the optical transmission cable 10 can also be a polymer clad optical fiber in which the core 11 is composed of a quartz-based material and the cladding 12 is composed of a resin such as a hard polymer. As hard polymers, for example, fluorine-based resins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF), ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), polyimide, etc., or copolymers thereof can be listed.

[0047] The optical transmission cable 10 of this embodiment has a bending portion 14 on the side of the front end portion 13, and the bending portion 14 is bent together with the bending holding member 40 in a manner inclined relative to the extension direction X of the catheter 100. The bending radius R of the bending portion 14 is preferably 2 cm or less. By setting the bending radius R to be 2 cm or less, the optical fiber probe 1 can be accommodated in the catheter 100 with an outer diameter H of 3 mm or less for an endoscope having a diameter of a general pipeline. Figure 2 As shown, the optical transmission cable 10 is supported by a fixing jig 110 disposed on the front end side of the optical fiber probe 1 in the catheter 100 so that the bending portion 14 can more reliably maintain the bending radius R. In addition, the extension direction X of the catheter 100 is the same as the extension direction of the endoscope, and is also the direction in which the endoscope is inserted into the organ of the human body and the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0048] The light refraction part 20 refracts the laser light L emitted from the core 11 at the front end 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 and then emits it. The light refraction part 20 of this embodiment is formed by a hemispherical microlens. Specifically, the light refraction part 20 has: a flat incident surface 21 connected to the front end 13, on which the laser light L transmitted from the optical transmission cable 10 is incident; and an emission surface 22, which emits the incident laser light L and is formed in a curved surface shape convex in the emission direction of the light. The light refraction part 20 refracts the laser light L incident from the front end 13 at the emission surface 22, and emits it in a direction inclined relative to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0049] The tubular member 30 is a flexible cylindrical hose. The tubular member 30 accommodates a portion of the optical transmission cable 10 and a portion of the light refraction portion 20 in the inner hollow portion 301. In the present embodiment, the optical transmission cable 10 is inserted into the tubular member 30 in such a manner that at least the front end portion 13 side is located in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the optical transmission cable 10 is accommodated in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30 in a state extending in the axial direction of the tubular member 30. In addition, the light refraction portion 20 is accommodated in the tubular member 30 in a manner that the incident surface 21 connected to the front end portion 13 is located in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30 and the emission surface 22 is exposed to the outside of the tubular member 30. Examples of the raw material of the tubular member 30 include polyimide, silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and the like.

[0050] The bending holding component 40 is an elongated component that can maintain a bent state. The bending holding component 40 is arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 on at least the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10. In addition, the raw material of the bending holding component 40 can be a metal raw material such as stainless steel, tungsten, shape memory alloy, etc., or a resin raw material such as acrylic resin. In addition, the shape of the bending holding component 40 is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, cylindrical, tubular, or flat. The bending holding component 40 of the present embodiment is formed by a stainless steel wire. In addition, the front end portion 41 of the bending holding component 40 of the present embodiment is connected to the light refraction portion 20.

[0051] The bending holding member 40 is bent so that the bending radius of the optical transmission cable 10 becomes a desired angle. For example, when the bending holding member 40 is formed of a metal wire of a shape memory alloy, by bending and memorizing the desired angle when the optical fiber probe 1 as a product is shipped, the state of being bent at the desired angle can be maintained for a longer period of time. The bending holding member 40 of this embodiment is bent along the bending portion 14 of the optical transmission cable 10. In addition, in this embodiment, the bending holding member 40 is arranged on the inner side of the bending portion 14 of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0052] The protective component 50 covers the outer peripheral surface of the metal wire of the bending holding component 40. The protective component 50 of the present embodiment is a flexible cylindrical hose, which covers the outer peripheral surface of the metal wire by accommodating the bending holding component 40 inside. In this way, the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 can be protected from the influence of the metal wire arranged along the optical transmission cable 10. In addition, as the raw material of the protective component 50, for example, polyimide, silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and the like can be listed. In addition, in this specification, the bending holding component 40 and the protective component 50 arranged on the outer periphery thereof are sometimes understood as a whole and referred to as the bending holding component 40.

[0053] The holding portion 60 holds the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the tubular member 30 unchanged. The holding portion 60 of this embodiment holds the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the tubular member 30 unchanged at least in the axial direction of the optical transmission cable 10. The holding portion 60 of this embodiment includes a first restraining member 61 and a second restraining member 62 arranged along the outer peripheral surface of the tubular member 30.

[0054] The first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 are, for example, cylindrical heat shrinkable hoses that can shrink in diameter due to heat. The first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 are arranged at a distance from each other on the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10. In addition, as a raw material of the heat shrinkable hose, for example, FEP (a fluororesin formed by combining tetrafluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene) can be cited.

[0055] The first restraining member 61 is a member that restrains the optical transmission cable 10, the buckling retaining member 40, etc. from moving in the tubular member 30 on the front end side of the optical fiber probe 1. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first restraining member 61 is arranged at a position farther from the light refraction part 20 than the second restraining member 62, and covers the portion of the tubular member 30 that accommodates the optical transmission cable 10, the buckling retaining member 40 and the protective member 50. Figure 3 As shown, the optical transmission cable 10 and the bending holding member 40 covered by the protective member 50 are located in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30, and the first restraining member 61 is located outside the tubular member 30. In this state, the first restraining member 61 is thermally contracted, thereby applying a force toward the inner diameter direction of the tubular member 30. As a result, the optical transmission cable 10, the protective member 50, the bending holding member 40 and the tubular member 30 are in close contact with each other, and their relative positions are fixed.

[0056] The second restraining member 62 is a member that restrains the optical transmission cable 10, the light refracting portion 20, the buckling retaining member 40, etc. from moving in the tubular member 30 on the light refracting portion 20 side. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the second restraining member 62 covers the portion of the tubular member 30 where the light refractor 20 is connected to the optical transmission cable 10 and its vicinity. That is, the first restraining member 61 covers the portion of the tubular member 30 that accommodates the light refractor 20, and the portion of the tubular member 30 that accommodates the vicinity of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 and the bending holding member 40 arranged along the front end portion. In this state, the first restraining member 61 is thermally contracted, thereby applying a force in the inner diameter direction of the tubular member 30. As a result, the optical transmission cable 10, the protective member 50, the bending holding member 40 and the tubular member 30 are in close contact at the front end portion 13 and its vicinity, and the light refractor 20 connected to the optical transmission cable 10 and the bending holding member 40 and the tubular member 30 are in close contact with each other. As a result, the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10, the light refractor 20, the tubular member 30, the bending holding member 40 and the protective member 50 are fixed. In addition, the first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 are thermally shrunk when the optical fiber probe 1 is manufactured.

[0057] The cable protection member 70 is a flexible cylindrical hose for protecting the optical transmission cable 10. Figure 1 As shown, the cable protection member 70 accommodates the base end side of the optical transmission cable 10 in the inner hollow portion from the portion of the optical transmission cable 10 that is not inserted into the tubular member 30. The cable protection member 70 is arranged with a gap with respect to the cable protection member 70 in the extending direction of the optical transmission cable 10. Examples of the raw material of the cable protection member 70 include nylon, silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and the like.

[0058] In the present embodiment, the bending holding member 40 is bent along the optical transmission cable 10 at the bending portion 14 while the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10 and the bending holding member 40 are held unchanged in the tubular member 30 by the holding member 60. Thus, the bent state of the bending portion 14 can be more reliably maintained on the side of the front end portion 13. Thus, the bent state of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 can be maintained, and the laser light L can be irradiated in a direction inclined with respect to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable 10 into the human body.

[0059] <Second embodiment>

[0060] Next, refer to Figure 4 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe 1 according to a second embodiment. Figure 3 In the following description of the second embodiment, the structures corresponding to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0061] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending retention member 40, a protection member 50, a retention portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is mainly different from the optical fiber probe 1 of the first embodiment in the structure of the retention portion 60.

[0062] The holding portion 60 of the present embodiment is different from the holding portion 60 of the first embodiment in that it includes intervening members 63 and 64 in addition to the first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 .

[0063] The interposing members 63 and 64 are flexible and elongated members, and are received in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30. The interposing members 63 and 64 are arranged in the tubular member 30 along the bending holding member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 covered by the protective member 50. The interposing members 63 and 64 fill the space of the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30. The shapes of the interposing members 63 and 64 are as follows: Figure 3 Although shown as cylindrical, the shape is not particularly limited. For example, the shape of the interposing members 63 and 64 may be cylindrical or plate-shaped.

[0064] Here, refer to Figure 4 , the positional relationship among the optical transmission cable 10 , the buckling retaining member 40 , and the intervening members 63 , 64 within the tubular member 30 will be described.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged at a position opposite to the bending holding member 40, and the clamping member 63 is arranged at a position opposite to the clamping member 64. In addition, in the present embodiment, the outer diameters of the clamping members 63 and 64 are substantially equal, and the outer diameter of the protective member 50 covering the bending holding member 40 is formed substantially equal to the outer diameter of the optical transmission cable 10. Thus, the relative position of the bending holding member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 in the hollow portion 301 can be more reliably maintained.

[0066] <Third embodiment>

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 5 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 5 1 is a side view of the optical fiber probe 1 according to the third embodiment. In the following description of the third embodiment, the corresponding symbols are attached with the same regularity as those in the above-mentioned embodiment. The description thereof may be omitted or quoted. Figure 5 In the figure, the holding portion 60 is omitted.

[0068] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protective member 50, a holding portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is different from the optical fiber probe 1 of the first embodiment mainly in that the optical fiber probe 1 does not include the light refraction portion 20 and in the position of the optical transmission cable 10 relative to the bending portion 14.

[0069] The optical fiber probe 1 of this embodiment does not include the light refraction portion 20, and directly irradiates the laser light L to the outside from the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10. The optical transmission cable 10 extends further in the irradiation direction of the light than the bending holding member 40. In addition, the bending holding member 40 is arranged outside the curved portion 14 of the optical transmission cable 10. Thus, the laser light L emitted from the front end portion 13 can be irradiated to the cells as the irradiation object without being interfered by the bending holding member 40.

[0070] <Fourth embodiment>

[0071] Next, refer to Figure 6 , a fiber optic probe 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 6 1 is a side view of the optical fiber probe 1 according to the fourth embodiment. In the following description of the fourth embodiment, the structures corresponding to the above-mentioned embodiments are annotated with the same regularity and corresponding symbols. Sometimes the description thereof is omitted or quoted. Figure 6 In the figure, the holding portion 60 is omitted.

[0072] The optical fiber probe 1 of the fourth embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protective member 50, a holding portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is mainly different from the optical fiber probe 1 of the third embodiment in the structure of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0073] The front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 of the fourth embodiment is formed with an inclined surface 131 extending in a direction away from the tubular member 30 as it advances toward the inner side of the curved portion 14. When the laser light L hits the inclined surface 131, the laser light L is refracted along the inclination of the inclined surface 131, so that the laser light L can be emitted further to the side with respect to the insertion direction of the catheter 100 into the human body.

[0074] <Fifth embodiment>

[0075] Next, refer to Figure 7 , a fiber optic probe 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 7 is a diagram showing a fifth embodiment of the optical fiber probe 1, which is similar to Figure 3In the following description of the fifth embodiment, the structures corresponding to the second embodiment are denoted by the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0076] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protection member 50, a holding portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is mainly different from the second embodiment in the positional relationship between the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the intervening members 63 and 64 in the tubular member 30.

[0077] like Figure 7 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged at a position opposite to the clamping member 63, and the buckling holding member 40 is arranged at a position opposite to the clamping member 64. That is, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the buckling holding member 40 and the clamping member 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30, and the buckling holding member 40 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the optical transmission cable 10 and the clamping member 63 in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30. Thus, the relative position of the buckling holding member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 in the hollow portion 301 can be more reliably maintained. In addition, in the present embodiment, the outer diameters of the clamping members 63 and 64 and the outer diameter of the protective member 50 covering the buckling holding member 40 are formed to be substantially equal to the outer diameter of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0078] <Sixth embodiment>

[0079] Next, refer to Figure 8 , a fiber optic probe 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 8 is a diagram showing a sixth embodiment of the optical fiber probe 1, which is similar to Figure 3 In the following description of the sixth embodiment, the structures corresponding to the second embodiment are denoted by the same regularity and corresponding symbols. The description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0080] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protection member 50, a holding member 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is different from the second embodiment mainly in the structure of the holding member 60 and the size of the bending holding member 40, and the positional relationship between the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the intervening members 63, 64, 65 in the tubular member 30.

[0081] The holding portion 60 of this embodiment is different from the holding portion 60 of the second embodiment in that it further includes an intervening member 65 in addition to the first and second restricting members 61 and 62 and the intervening members 63 and 64. The intervening member 65 has the same structure as the intervening members 63 and 64, and its description is omitted.

[0082] like Figure 8 As shown, the outer diameters of the bending holding member 40 and the protective member 50 covering the bending holding member 40 are smaller than the outer diameters of the optical transmission cable 10 and the intervening members 63, 64, 65. The outer diameters of the intervening members 63, 64, 65 are formed to be substantially equal to the outer diameter of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0083] like Figure 8 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the bending holding member 40 covered by the protective member 50 is arranged at the approximate center of the tubular member 30. The optical transmission cable 10 and the intervening members 63 to 65 are arranged so as to surround the circumference of the bending holding member 40. Specifically, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged so as to sandwich the bending holding member 40 and face the intervening member 65, and the intervening member 63 is arranged so as to sandwich the bending holding member 40 and face the intervening member 64. That is, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the intervening members 63 and 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30, and the intervening member 65 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the intervening members 63 and 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30. The protective member 50 covering the bending holding member 40 is arranged so as to have its outer peripheral surface in contact with the outer peripheral surface of each of the optical transmission cable 10 and the intervening members 63 to 65. The outer peripheral surfaces of the optical transmission cable 10 and the clamping members 63 to 65 are in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30. As a result, the bending holding member 40 is located substantially at the center of the tubular member 30 in the axial view of the tubular member 30, and the relative position with the tubular member 30 is maintained, so that the force for keeping the front end side of the optical fiber probe 1 in the bent state can be applied more uniformly in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30.

[0084] <Seventh embodiment>

[0085] Next, refer to Fig. 9 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a seventh embodiment of the optical fiber probe 1, which is similar to Figure 3 In the following description of the seventh embodiment, the structures corresponding to the sixth embodiment are given the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0086] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protection member 50, a holding portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is different from the sixth embodiment mainly in the sizes of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the intervening members 63, 64, 65 and the positional relationship in the tubular member 30.

[0087] like Fig. 9 As shown, in the present embodiment, the outer diameters of the interposing members 63 to 65 , the outer diameter of the protection member 50 covering the buckling retaining member 40 , and the outer diameter of the optical transmission cable 10 are formed to be substantially equal.

[0088] like Fig. 9 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged at the approximate center of the tubular member 30. The bending holding member 40 and the intervening members 63 to 65 covered by the protective member 50 are arranged so as to surround the optical transmission cable 10. Specifically, the bending holding member 40 is arranged so as to sandwich the optical transmission cable 10 and face the intervening member 65, and the intervening member 63 is arranged so as to sandwich the optical transmission cable 10 and face the intervening member 64. That is, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, the bending holding member 40 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the intervening members 63 and 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30, and the intervening member 65 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the intervening members 63 and 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular member 30. The optical transmission cable 10 is arranged so that the outer peripheral surface is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of each of the protective member 50 and the intervening members 63 to 65 covering the bending holding member 40. The outer peripheral surfaces of the protection member 50 and the clamping members 63 to 65 covering the bending holding member 40 are in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30. Thus, the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10 can be bent and maintained in the bent state while the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged approximately at the center in the axial view of the optical fiber probe 1.

[0089] <Eighth Embodiment>

[0090] Next, refer to Fig.10 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.10 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe 1 according to an eighth embodiment, Figure 3 In the following description of the eighth embodiment, the structures corresponding to the seventh embodiment are denoted by the same regularity and corresponding symbols. The description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0091] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending holding member 40, a protection member 50, a holding member 60, and a cable protection member 70. The dimensions of the bending holding member 40, the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the intervening members 63 to 65 of the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment and the positional relationship in the tubular member 30 are the same as those of the seventh embodiment, but the holding member 60 is different from the seventh embodiment in that it includes a restriction member 66.

[0092] The limiting component 66 is as follows Fig.10 As shown, the gaps between the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40 covered by the protective member 50, and the intervening members 63 to 65 in the hollow portion 301 are filled. The limiting member 66 is a member that limits the movement of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40 covered by the protective member 50, and the intervening members 63 to 65. The limiting member 66 of this embodiment is an adhesive that is filled in the gaps between the optical transmission cable 10, the protective member 50 covering the bending holding member 40, and the intervening members 63 to 65 in the hollow portion 301 and cured. As a result, the gaps between the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding member 40, and the intervening members 63 to 65 in the tubular member 30 are filled with the adhesive. In this state, a force is applied toward the inner diameter direction of the tubular member 30 by the first restraining member 61, so that the relative position of the bending retaining member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 can be more reliably maintained, thereby more firmly maintaining the bent state of the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0093] <Ninth embodiment>

[0094] Next, refer to Fig.11 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.11 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe 1 according to a ninth embodiment. Figure 3 In the following description of the ninth embodiment, the structures corresponding to those in the first embodiment are given the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0095] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending retention member 40, a protection member 50, a retention portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is mainly different from the optical fiber probe 1 of the first embodiment in the structure of the retention portion 60.

[0096] The holding portion 60 of the present embodiment is different from the holding portion 60 of the first embodiment in that it includes an intervening member 67 in addition to the first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 .

[0097] The interposing member 67 is a flexible and elongated member, and is received in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30. The interposing member 67 is cylindrical, and is arranged along the tubular member 30 in such a manner that the outer peripheral surface is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30. Fig.11 As shown, the interposing member 67 has a through hole 671 and a through hole 672 extending in the axial direction.

[0098] Through holes 671, 672 are as follows Fig.11 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, they are formed at positions facing each other. The optical transmission cable 10 is inserted into the through hole 671, and the bending holding member 40 covered by the protective member 50 is inserted into the through hole 672. The outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 671. The outer peripheral surface of the protective member 50 covering the bending holding member 40 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 672. Thus, in a state where the optical transmission cable 10 is accommodated in the through hole 671 and the bending holding member 40 is accommodated in the through hole 672, a force in the inner diameter direction of the tubular member 30 is applied to the clamping member 67, so that the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 671 and the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10, as well as the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 672 and the outer peripheral surface of the protective member 50 can be brought into closer contact. Thus, the relative position of the bending holding member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 can be more reliably maintained.

[0099] <Tenth embodiment>

[0100] Next, refer to Fig.12 , a fiber optic probe 1 according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.12 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe 1 according to a tenth embodiment, Figure 3 In the following description of the tenth embodiment, the structures corresponding to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0101] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular member 30, a bending retention member 40, a protection member 50, a retention portion 60, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is mainly different from the optical fiber probe 1 of the first embodiment in the structure of the retention portion 60.

[0102] The holding portion 60 of the present embodiment is different from the holding portion 60 of the first embodiment in that it includes an intervening member 68 in addition to the first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 .

[0103] The interposing member 68 is a flexible and elongated member, and is received in the hollow portion 301 of the tubular member 30. The interposing member 68 is cylindrical in shape as a whole, and is arranged along the tubular member 30 in such a manner that the outer peripheral surface is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30. Fig.12 As shown, the interposing member 68 has a groove portion 681 and a groove portion 682 extending in the axial direction.

[0104] Grooves 681, 682 are as follows Fig.12 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular member 30, they are formed at positions facing each other. The optical transmission cable 10 is arranged in the groove 681, and the buckling holding member 40 covered by the protective member 50 is arranged in the groove 682. The outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 contacts the inner side surface of the groove 681 and the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30. The outer peripheral surface of the protective member 50 covering the buckling holding member 40 contacts the inner side surface of the groove 682 and the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30. Thus, in the state where the optical transmission cable 10 is accommodated in the groove 681 and the buckling holding member 40 is accommodated in the groove 682, a force is applied in the inner diameter direction of the tubular member 30, so that the inner side surface of the groove 681, the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 and the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30, and the inner side surface of the groove 682, the outer peripheral surface of the protective member 50 and the inner peripheral surface of the tubular member 30 can be made to be in closer contact. Thereby, the relative position of the bend retaining member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 can be maintained more reliably.

[0105] <Eleventh Embodiment>

[0106] Next, refer to Fig.13 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.13 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe 1 according to an eleventh embodiment, Figure 3 In the following description of the eleventh embodiment, the structures corresponding to those in the first embodiment are given the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0107] The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refraction portion 20, a tubular bending holding member 40A, a second holding portion 60A, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that the tubular bending holding member 40A and the second holding portion 60A are provided instead of the bending holding member 40 and the holding portion 60, and the tubular member 30 and the protection member 50 are not provided.

[0108] The tubular bending retaining member 40A is an elongated tubular member capable of retaining a bent state, and is mainly different from the bending retaining member 40 of the first embodiment in shape and arrangement. The tubular bending retaining member 40A of the present embodiment is formed of a stainless steel metal pipe.

[0109] The tubular buckling retaining member 40A is as follows Fig.13 As shown, at least the front end side of the optical transmission cable 10 is accommodated and arranged along the optical transmission cable 10. That is, at least the front end side of the optical transmission cable 10 is inserted into the tubular bending holding member 40A. In the present embodiment, at least the front end side of the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged in a manner that the outer peripheral surface as a whole is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular bending holding member 40A. With this structure, the bending shape of the optical transmission cable 10 inserted into the tubular bending holding member 40A changes in accordance with the shape of the tubular bending holding member 40A and is maintained. The tubular bending holding member 40A is bent, for example, in a manner such that the bending radius of the optical transmission cable 10 becomes a desired angle by the method described above in the first embodiment.

[0110] The second holding portion 60A holds the optical transmission cable 10 at least in the axial direction, and the relative position between the optical transmission cable 10 and the tubular bending holding member 40A does not change. The second holding portion 60A of this embodiment has a first restraining member 61 and a second restraining member 62, and the first restraining member 61 is arranged along the outer peripheral surface of the tubular bending holding member 40A instead of along the tubular member 30, which is different from the holding portion 60 of the first embodiment.

[0111] like Fig.13 As shown, the optical transmission cable 10 is accommodated in the tubular buckling holding member 40A, and the first restraining member 61 is located outside the tubular buckling holding member 40A. In this state, the first restraining member 61 is thermally contracted, thereby applying a force toward the inner diameter direction of the tubular buckling holding member 40A. As a result, the optical transmission cable 10 and the tubular buckling holding member 40A are brought into closer contact with each other, and their relative positions are fixed. As a result, the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10 can be bent and the bent state can be maintained.

[0112] <Twelfth embodiment>

[0113] Next, refer to Fig.14 , an optical fiber probe 1 according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.14 is a diagram showing an optical fiber probe 1 according to a twelfth embodiment, Figure 3 In the following description of the twelfth embodiment, the structures corresponding to those in the eleventh embodiment are denoted by the same regularity and corresponding symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or quoted.

[0114] The optical fiber probe 1 of this embodiment includes an optical transmission cable 10, a light refracting portion 20, a tubular bending holding member 40A, a second holding portion 60A, and a cable protection member 70. The optical fiber probe 1 of this embodiment is different from the eleventh embodiment mainly in the size of the optical transmission cable 10 and the structure of the second holding portion 60A.

[0115] The outer diameter of the optical transmission cable 10 is smaller than the inner diameter of the tubular buckling holding member 40A. Fig.14 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular buckling retaining member 40A, only a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular buckling retaining member 40A.

[0116] The second holding portion 60A of the present embodiment is different from the second holding portion 60A of the eleventh embodiment in that it includes intervening members 63 , 64 , and 65 in addition to the first restraining member 61 and the second restraining member 62 .

[0117] The intervening members 63 to 65 are flexible elongated members and are accommodated in the hollow portion 401 of the tubular bending holding member 40A. The intervening members 63 to 65 are arranged in the tubular bending holding member 40A along the optical transmission cable 10. In the present embodiment, the outer diameters of the intervening members 63 to 65 are formed to be substantially equal.

[0118] like Fig.14 As shown, in the axial view of the tubular buckling holding member 40A, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged at a position opposite to the clamping member 65, and the clamping member 63 is arranged at a position opposite to the clamping member 64. That is, in the axial view of the tubular buckling holding member 40A, the optical transmission cable 10 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the clamping members 63 and 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular buckling holding member 40A, and the clamping member 65 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the clamping members 63 and 64 in the circumferential direction of the tubular buckling holding member 40A. The outer peripheral surface of each of the optical transmission cable 10 and the clamping members 63 to 65 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular buckling holding member 40A. In addition, the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the tubular buckling holding member 40A and the outer peripheral surfaces of the clamping members 63 and 64. In this state, the first restraining member 61 is thermally contracted, so that a force toward the inner diameter direction of the tubular buckling holding member 40A is applied. As a result, the optical transmission cable 10 and the tubular buckling retaining member 40A are brought into closer contact with each other, and their relative positions are fixed. Thus, the optical transmission cable 10 can be made into a size that is easy to insert into the tubular buckling retaining member 40A, while the relative positions of the tubular buckling retaining member 40A and the optical transmission cable 10 can be reliably maintained.

[0119] According to the above-described embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

[0120] The medical fiber optic probe 1 of the present embodiment comprises: an optical transmission cable 10, which transmits a laser light L emitted from a light source and emits the transmitted laser light L from a front end portion 13; an elongated bending retaining component 40, which is arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 on at least the side of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 and is capable of maintaining a bent state; a tubular component 30, into which the optical transmission cable 10 and the bending retaining component 40 are inserted; and a retaining portion 60, which maintains the relative position between the optical transmission cable 10, the bending retaining component 40 and the tubular component 30 unchanged.

[0121] Thus, the bending holding member 40 is arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 on the side of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 in the tubular member 30, and the relative positions thereof are fixed, so that the side of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 can be bent and maintained in the bent state. Thus, while suppressing the heat generated during irradiation, the laser light L with less beam breakage and high beam quality can be irradiated in a direction inclined relative to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable 10. The beam can be expanded within a short distance. In addition, an inclined emission diffuser can be manufactured by a simple method in which the bending holding member 40 is arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 in the tubular member 30 without performing special processing such as prism processing.

[0122] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the holding portion 60 holds the optical transmission cable 10 at least in the axial direction, and the relative positions among the optical transmission cable 10 , the buckling retaining member 40 , and the tubular member 30 do not change.

[0123] Thus, the relative positions of the axial bending retaining component 40 and the tubular component 30 with respect to the optical transmission cable 10 can be prevented from being offset, so that, for example, the state in which the light emitted from the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 interferes with the bending retaining component 40 and the tubular component 30 can be prevented.

[0124] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the bend retaining member 40 is formed of a metal wire.

[0125] Thereby, the bent state of the optical transmission cable 10 can be maintained more simply and reliably.

[0126] Furthermore, the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes a protective member 50 that covers the outer peripheral surface of the metal wire.

[0127] Thus, since the outer peripheral surface of the metal wire is covered by the protective member 50 , the metal wire arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 does not directly contact the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission cable 10 , so that the optical transmission cable 10 can be protected.

[0128] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the holding portion 60 has a first constraint component 61 and a second constraint component 62, and the first constraint component 61 and the second constraint component 62 are arranged along the outer peripheral surface of the tubular component 30 to fix the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding component 40 and the tubular component 30.

[0129] Thus, the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10 and the bend retaining member 40 in the tubular member 30 can be fixed with a simple structure.

[0130] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the holding portion 60 includes the intervening members 63 and 64 arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 and the buckling holding member 40 .

[0131] Thereby, the change in the relative position between the buckling retaining member 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 in the tubular member 30 can be more strongly restricted.

[0132] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the holding portion 60 has a limiting component 66, which is formed in a manner to fill the gap between the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding component 40 and the clamping components 63 to 65 in the tubular component 30, and limits the movement of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding component 40 and the clamping components 63 to 65.

[0133] As a result, the gaps among the optical transmission cable 10, the bending retaining component 40 and the clamping components 63 to 65 in the tubular component 30 are filled with the limiting component 66, so that the relative positions of the bending retaining component 40 and the optical transmission cable 10 can be more reliably maintained, thereby more firmly maintaining the bent state of the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0134] In addition, the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment includes a light refraction portion 20, which is arranged on the side of the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10, and emits the laser light L emitted from the front end portion 13 of the optical transmission cable 10 at an angle greater than a specified angle relative to the axial direction of the optical transmission cable 10. The holding portion 60 is held at least in the axial direction of the optical transmission cable 10, and the relative positions of the optical transmission cable 10, the bending holding component 40 and the tubular component 30 relative to the light refraction portion 20 do not change.

[0135] Thereby, the laser light L emitted in a state where the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10 is bent can be emitted in a direction more inclined with respect to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable 10 .

[0136] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the optical transmission cable 10 has a bending portion 14 on the side of the front end portion 13 that bends together with the bending retaining component 40, and the optical transmission cable 10, the bending retaining component 40 and the tubular component 30 are accommodated in a catheter 100, which is used to be inserted into the pipeline 100 of the endoscope and has an outer diameter of less than 3 mm.

[0137] Thus, the catheter 100 for an endoscope having a diameter of a general tube can be accommodated in a state where the bending portion 14 is provided in advance, so that the versatility is high.

[0138] In addition, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the bending radius R of the bending portion 14 is 2 cm or less.

[0139] Thus, the optical fiber probe 1 can be housed in the catheter 100 for an endoscope having a diameter similar to that of a general pipeline.

[0140] Furthermore, in the optical fiber probe 1 of the present embodiment, the optical transmission cable 10 extends further in the light emission direction than the bend retaining member 40 .

[0141] Thus, the laser light L can be irradiated onto cancer cells or the like as an irradiation target without interference from the bend retaining member 40 .

[0142] In addition, the medical fiber optic probe 1 of the present embodiment comprises: an optical transmission cable 10, which transmits a laser light L emitted from a light source and emits the transmitted laser light L from a front end portion 13; an elongated tubular bending retaining component 40A, which accommodates the optical transmission cable 10 on at least the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10 and is arranged along the optical transmission cable 10 so as to maintain a bent state; and a second retaining portion 60A, which maintains the relative position between the optical transmission cable 10 and the tubular bending retaining component 40A unchanged at least in the axial direction of the optical transmission cable 10.

[0143] Thus, the optical transmission cable 10 is accommodated in the tubular bending holding member 40A that can maintain a bent state, and the relative positions thereof are fixed, so that the front end portion 13 side of the optical transmission cable 10 can be bent and maintained in the bent state. Thus, while suppressing the heat generated during irradiation, the laser light L with less beam breakage and high beam quality can be irradiated in a direction inclined relative to the insertion direction of the optical transmission cable 10. The beam can be expanded within a short distance. In addition, an oblique emission diffuser can be manufactured by a simple method of accommodating the optical transmission cable 10 in the tubular bending holding member 40A without performing special processing such as prism processing.

[0144] As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was demonstrated, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, It can change suitably.

[0145] In the second embodiment, the holding portion 60 has two intervening members 63 and 64, but the number of intervening members is not particularly limited. For example, the holding portion 60 may have one intervening member or may have three or more intervening members.

[0146] In the above-mentioned first embodiment, the first restraint member 61 and the second restraint member 62 are arranged as separate bodies at intervals along the optical transmission cable 10 , but the first restraint member 61 and the second restraint member 62 may be integrated.

[0147] In the second embodiment, the holding portion 60 has two intervening members 63 and 64, but the number of intervening members is not particularly limited. For example, the holding portion 60 may have one intervening member or may have three or more intervening members.

[0148] In the first to sixth embodiments, the cavity 301 may be filled with the restriction member 66. In the twelfth embodiment, the cavity 401 may be filled with the restriction member 66.

[0149] In the first to tenth embodiments described above, the optical fiber probe 1 may be configured not to include the protective member 50 . That is, the outer peripheral surface of the buckling retaining member 40 may not be covered with the protective member 50 .

[0150] In the above-mentioned eleventh embodiment, the optical fiber probe 1 includes the second holding portion 60A, but may be configured not to include the second holding portion 60A.

[0151] In the eleventh and twelfth embodiments, the optical fiber probe 1 may include a tubular protective member 50 formed between the tubular bending retaining member 40A and the optical transmission cable 10 in the radial direction and covering the inner peripheral surface of the tubular bending retaining member 40A.

[0152] Furthermore, the optical fiber probe 1 is used as a disposable product in the medical field for reasons of hygiene and the like, but by recycling the product and enabling the reuse of lenses and the like, it can help ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.

[0153] Reference numerals

[0154] 1 Fiber Optic Probe

[0155] 10 Optical transmission cable

[0156] 13 Front end

[0157] 30 Tubular parts

[0158] 40 Buckling retaining component

[0159] 60 Holding unit

[0160] L Laser

Claims

1. A medical optical fiber probe, comprising: An optical transmission cable that transmits light emitted from a light source and emits the transmitted light from a front end portion; an elongated bending holding member, arranged along the optical transmission cable at least on the front end side of the optical transmission cable, capable of holding the bent state; a tubular member into which the optical transmission cable and the flexure retaining member are inserted; and The holding portion holds the relative positions of the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member, and the tubular member unchanged.

2. The optical fiber probe according to claim 1, wherein: The holding portion holds the optical transmission cable at least in the axial direction, and the relative positions among the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member and the tubular member do not change.

3. The optical fiber probe according to claim 1, wherein: The aforementioned buckling retaining member is formed of a metal wire.

4. The optical fiber probe according to claim 3, wherein: The optical fiber probe includes a protective member that covers the outer peripheral surface of the metal wire.

5. The optical fiber probe according to claim 1, wherein: The holding portion includes a restraining member disposed along an outer peripheral surface of the tubular member and fixing relative positions of the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member, and the tubular member.

6. The optical fiber probe according to claim 5, wherein: The holding portion includes an intervening member disposed along the optical transmission cable and the buckling holding member.

7. The optical fiber probe according to claim 6, wherein: The holding portion includes a restricting member formed to fill a gap between the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member and the intervening member in the tubular member and restrict movement of the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member and the intervening member.

8. The optical fiber probe according to claim 1, wherein: The optical fiber probe includes a light refracting portion, the light refracting portion being provided on the front end side of the optical transmission cable and emitting light emitted from the front end of the optical transmission cable at an angle greater than a predetermined angle relative to the axial direction of the optical transmission cable. The holding portion holds the optical transmission cable at least in the axial direction, and the relative positions of the optical transmission cable, the bending holding member, and the tubular member with respect to the light refracting portion do not change.

9. The optical fiber probe according to claim 1, wherein: The optical transmission cable has a bent portion on the front end side that bends together with the bending holding member. The optical transmission cable, the bending retaining member, and the tubular member are housed in a catheter, which is used for insertion into a channel of an endoscope and has an outer diameter of 3 mm or less.

10. The optical fiber probe according to claim 9, wherein: The bending radius of the aforementioned curved portion is 2 cm or less.

11. The optical fiber probe according to claim 1, wherein: The optical transmission cable extends further in the light emission direction than the bend retaining member.

12. A medical optical fiber probe, comprising: An optical transmission cable that transmits light emitted from a light source and emits the transmitted light from a front end portion; an elongated tubular bending holding member, which accommodates the optical transmission cable at least on the front end side of the optical transmission cable and is arranged along the optical transmission cable to maintain a bent state; and The second holding portion holds the optical transmission cable and the tubular buckling holding member such that a relative position thereof does not change at least in the axial direction of the optical transmission cable.

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