Puncture needle for endoscope

Abstract

This puncture needle for an endoscope is provided with: a tubular part that has a tubular shape; a first needle tip part having a first needle tip at the tip thereof; the top end of the second needle point part is provided with a second needle point, the first needle point part is provided with a first blade face and a second blade face which extend towards the first needle point, and the second needle point part is provided with a third blade face and a fourth blade face which extend towards the second needle point; the first blade face, the second blade face, the third blade face, and the fourth blade face form edges of an opening communicating with the inner space of the tubular part. The normal vector of the first blade surface and the normal vector of the third blade surface in the tip region face each other in a direction closer to the other blade surface from one blade surface than in a direction orthogonal to a straight line passing through the first needle tip and the second needle tip. The normal vector of the second blade surface and the normal vector of the fourth blade surface in the tip region face each other in a direction closer to the other blade surface from one blade surface than in a direction orthogonal to a straight line passing through the first needle tip and the second needle tip.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on May 15, 2020 (entering the Chinese national phase on November 8, 2021), with international application number PCT / JP2020 / 019451 (national application number: 202080034272.7) and invention title "Puncture Needle for Endoscope". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an endoscopic puncture needle. This application claims priority based on PCT / JP2019 / 019665, filed on May 17, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] A biopsy, a procedure known as extracting minute amounts of body tissue for microscopic observation, is commonly used. However, in cases involving the extraction of deep tissues from organs or other structures, where observation with an optical endoscope is difficult, endoscopic ultrasound-guided aspiration (EUS-FNA) is employed. This involves using an ultrasound endoscope to obtain ultrasound tomographic images of the organ, and then inserting a needle with a tubular tube into the organ under ultrasound guidance to extract the tissue. EUS-FNA requires a needle capable of extracting a relatively large amount of body tissue.

[0004] Patent Document 1 describes an endoscopic puncture needle device that takes tissue as a block and cuts it from the surrounding tissue. The puncture needle described in Patent Document 1, which has two sharp tips, can efficiently cut into body tissue.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-073798 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, although the puncture needle with two sharp tips described in Patent Document 1 can efficiently cut into the body tissue, it does not play a sufficient role in the recyclability of the cut body tissue and bring it back into the interior of the puncture needle.

[0010] Based on the above, the purpose of this invention is to provide an endoscopic puncture needle that has high punctureability into body tissue (the puncture needle is easy to cut into body tissue) and is easy to retrieve the cut body tissue into the interior of the puncture needle.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] To address the above problems, the present invention proposes the following solution.

[0013] The first technical solution of the present invention provides an endoscopic puncture needle comprising: a tubular portion; a first needle tip portion disposed at the top end of the tubular portion, the top end of which has a first needle tip; and a second needle tip portion disposed at the top end of the tubular portion, the top end of which has a second needle tip. The first needle tip portion has a first cutting surface and a second cutting surface extending toward the first needle tip, and the second needle tip portion has a third cutting surface and a fourth cutting surface extending toward the second needle tip. The first cutting surface, the second cutting surface, the third cutting surface, and the fourth cutting surface form the edge of an opening communicating with the internal space of the tubular portion. The first needle tip portion and the second needle tip portion each include a tip region containing the first needle tip and the second needle tip. The base region of the first needle tip and the base region of the second needle tip; and an intermediate region located between the tip region and the base region, wherein, in a main view viewed from a direction along the axis of the tubular portion, the normal vectors of the first and third cutting surfaces in the tip region are directed relative to each other towards a direction from one cutting surface toward the other, compared to a direction orthogonal to a line passing through the first and second needle tips; and in the main view, the normal vectors of the second and fourth cutting surfaces in the tip region are directed relative to each other towards a direction from one cutting surface toward the other, compared to a direction orthogonal to a line passing through the first and second needle tips.

[0014] The effects of the invention

[0015] Using the endoscopic puncture needle of the present invention, an endoscopic puncture needle can be provided that has high punctureability into body tissue (the puncture needle is easy to cut into body tissue) and easy to retrieve the cut body tissue into the interior of the puncture needle. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is an overall diagram of a biopsy system equipped with an endoscopic puncture needle according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the endoscopic puncture needle of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the tip portion of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the first embodiment, showing a section along the length axis of the endoscopic puncture needle.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of the needle tube of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a side view of the syringe according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a front view of the needle of the first embodiment viewed from the top along the axial direction. It is a diagram showing the change in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, with the cross-sections arranged at equal intervals along the length axis.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the first embodiment shown along the X-X section.

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the syringe of the first embodiment along the Y-Y section.

[0024] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the function of the endoscopic puncture needle in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the structure of the object when the needle slider moves towards the top of the operating part.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a modified example of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a modified example of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional view of the needle tube of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a side view of the syringe according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 15 This is a front view of the needle of the second embodiment viewed from the top along the axial direction. It is a diagram showing the change in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, with the cross-sections arranged at equal intervals along the length axis.

[0031] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the second embodiment shown along the X-X section.

[0032] Figure 17 yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the second embodiment shown along the Y-Y section.

[0033] Figure 18 This is a three-dimensional view of the needle tube of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the third embodiment.

[0034] Figure 19 This is a side view of the syringe according to the third embodiment.

[0035] Figure 20 The needle of the third embodiment is from and Figure 19 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis.

[0036] Figure 21 This is a front view of the needle of the third embodiment viewed from the top along the axial direction. It is a diagram showing the change in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, with cross-sections arranged at equal intervals along the length axis.

[0037] Figure 22 This is a top view observed from the radial direction of the needle in the third embodiment, and in a direction horizontal to the line V.

[0038] Figure 23 From and Figure 22 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis.

[0039] Figure 24 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the third embodiment shown along the Z-Z section.

[0040] Figure 25 This is a perspective view showing a modified example of the sixth cutting edge of the needle according to the third embodiment.

[0041] Figure 26 This is a three-dimensional view of the needle tube of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 27 This is a side view of the syringe according to the fourth embodiment.

[0043] Figure 28 The needle of the fourth embodiment is from and Figure 27 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis.

[0044] Figure 29 This is a front view of the needle of the fourth embodiment viewed from the top along the axial direction. It is a diagram showing the change in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, with cross-sections arranged at equal intervals along the length axis.

[0045] Figure 30 yes Figure 27 The cross-sectional view of the needle of the fourth embodiment shown is along line B-B. Figure 29 An enlarged cross-sectional view of region S shown.

[0046] Figure 31 This is a top view observed from the radial direction of the needle in the fourth embodiment, and in a direction horizontal to the line V.

[0047] Figure 32 From and Figure 31 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis.

[0048] Figure 33 yes Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fourth embodiment shown along line A-A.

[0049] Figure 34 yes Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fourth embodiment shown along line B-B.

[0050] Figure 35 yes Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fourth embodiment shown along line C-C.

[0051] Figure 36 It is aimed at Figure 29 The diagram shown shows the normals of the main first cutting edge and other cutting edges, with arrows indicating the cross section perpendicular to the axial direction A.

[0052] Figure 37 This is a three-dimensional view of the needle tube of the endoscopic puncture needle according to the fifth embodiment.

[0053] Figure 38 This is a front view of the syringe according to the fifth embodiment.

[0054] Figure 39 This is a side view of the syringe according to the fifth embodiment.

[0055] Figure 40 The needle of the fifth embodiment is from and Figure 39 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis.

[0056] Figure 41 This is a front view of the needle of the fifth embodiment viewed from the top along the axial direction. It is a diagram showing the change in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, with cross-sections arranged at equal intervals along the length axis.

[0057] Figure 42 This is a top view observed from a direction horizontal to the line V.

[0058] Figure 43 From and Figure 42 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis.

[0059] Figure 44 yes Figure 39 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fifth embodiment shown along line D-D.

[0060] Figure 45 yes Figure 39 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fifth embodiment shown along line E-E.

[0061] Figure 46 yes Figure 39 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fifth embodiment shown along line F-F.

[0062] Figure 47 yes Figure 39 A cross-sectional view of the needle of the fifth embodiment shown along line G-G.

[0063] Figure 48 It is aimed at Figure 41 The diagram shown shows the normal to the first cutting edge and the equal cutting edge of the cross section perpendicular to the axis direction, indicated by arrows. Detailed Implementation

[0064] (First Implementation)

[0065] Reference Figures 1-10 This describes a biopsy system 150 equipped with an endoscopic puncture needle 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 This is an overall view of the biopsy system 150 equipped with the endoscopic puncture needle 1 of this embodiment.

[0066] [Biopsy System 150]

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, the biopsy system 150 is a medical device used to extract body tissue for biopsy. The biopsy system 150 includes an ultrasonic endoscope 100 and an endoscopic puncture needle 1 (hereinafter referred to as "puncture needle 1").

[0068] [Ultrasonic Endoscope 100]

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, the ultrasonic endoscope 100 includes an insertion part 101 inserted into the body from the top, an operation part 109 mounted on the base of the insertion part 101, a universal cable 112 connected at one end to the side of the operation part 109, a light source device 113 connected to the other end of the universal cable 112 via a branch cable 112a, an optical observation part 114 connected to the other end of the universal cable 112 via a branch cable 112b, and an ultrasonic observation part 115 connected to the other end of the universal cable 112 via a branch cable 112c.

[0070] The insertion part 101 is provided with a top rigid part 102, an active bending part 105 and a flexible tube part 106 in sequence from the top side.

[0071] The top rigid part 102 includes an optical camera mechanism 103 for optical observation and an ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104 for ultrasonic observation.

[0072] The optical camera mechanism 103 includes a camera optical system with its field of view facing obliquely in front of the top rigid part 102, an image sensor such as CCD or CMOS for detecting the image of the subject incident through the camera optical system, and a CPU for controlling the operation of the image sensor.

[0073] The ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104 includes an ultrasonic transducer (not shown) for emitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104 uses the ultrasonic transducer to receive reflected waves, which are the reflected waves from the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic transducer when they encounter the object being observed, and outputs the signal based on the ultrasonic waves received by the ultrasonic transducer to the ultrasonic observation unit 115.

[0074] The active bending section 105 is a cylindrical member formed by arranging and connecting multiple cylindrical joints along the centerline of the insertion section 101. The active bending section 105 is a member that bends in a predetermined direction by pulling an angle operation line (not shown) at the operation section 109. This angle operation line is fixed to the top end of the active bending section 105 and extends to the operation section 109. In this embodiment, the active bending section 105 can bend in two directions along the scanning direction of the ultrasonic wave.

[0075] The flexible tube section 106 is formed into a soft cylindrical member to guide the rigid tip 102 to a desired position within the luminal tissue or body cavity. Both the active bending section 105 and the flexible tube section 106 have channels 107 and unshown conduits for air / water delivery, suction, etc.

[0076] like Figure 1 As shown, channel 107 is a cylindrical portion through which the puncture needle 1 can pass. The top end of channel 107 opens at the top end of the top rigid portion 102, and the base end of channel 107 opens on the side of the top end of the operating portion 109.

[0077] like Figure 1 As shown, the operating unit 109 has an outer surface that is shaped to be held by a surgical operator using the ultrasonic endoscope 100. The operating unit 109 includes: a bending operating mechanism 110 for pulling the angle operating line to bend the active bending unit 105 or for pulling the lifting line to actuate the lifting platform 108; and a plurality of switches 111 for supplying air, water or suction via tubing.

[0078] The light source device 113 is a device for emitting illumination light for being captured by the optical camera device 103.

[0079] The optical observation unit 114 is configured to project images captured by the image sensor of the optical camera unit 103 onto the monitor 116.

[0080] The ultrasonic observation unit 115 receives the signal output from the ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104, generates an image based on the signal, and projects it onto the monitor 116.

[0081] [Puncture needle 1]

[0082] Figure 2 This is a 3D view of puncture needle 1. Figure 3 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the section along the length axis of the puncture needle 1, with respect to the tip portion of the puncture needle 1.

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, the puncture needle 1 includes an insert body 2, an operating part 8, and a core needle 27.

[0084] [Insertion 2]

[0085] The insert 2 is an elongated component capable of penetrating the channel 107 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the insert 2 includes a needle 3 and a sheath 7.

[0086] Figure 4 This is a 3D view of syringe 3. Figure 5 This is a side view of syringe 3. Figure 6 This is a front view of the needle tube 3 viewed from the top of the axis A. It is a diagram showing the changes in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, arranged at equal intervals along the length axis. Figure 6 The single-dotted line shown represents the intersection of the cross sections perpendicular to the axial direction A, which are arranged at equal intervals along the axial direction A, with the first cutting edge 33, the second cutting edge 34, the third cutting edge 35, and the fourth cutting edge 36. Figure 7 It's syringe 3. Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of section X-X shown. Figure 8 It's syringe 3. Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of the Y-Y section shown.

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, the needle tube 3 includes a tubular portion 30 and a first needle tip 31 and a second needle tip 32 located at the top end of the tubular portion 30. The needle tube 3 can be moved forward and backward within the sheath 7 using the operating part 8. An opening 4 is formed at the top end of the needle tube 3, which serves as an entrance for tissue inserted into the first needle tip 31 and the second needle tip 32 to enter the interior of the needle tube 3. The first needle tip 31 and the second needle tip 32 of the needle tube 3 can protrude or retract relative to the opening at the top end of the sheath 7.

[0088] The preferred material for the needle tube 3 is one that is flexible and elastic, easily returning to a straight state even when bent under external force. For example, alloy materials such as stainless steel alloy, nickel-titanium alloy, and cobalt-chromium alloy can be used as the material for the needle tube 3.

[0089] like Figures 4-6 As shown, the first needle tip 31 has a first cutting surface 33 and a second cutting surface 34, which extend toward the sharp first needle tip 31a. In a front view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, as... Figure 6 As shown, the first cutting surface 33 and the second cutting surface 34 are symmetrical about the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the first cutting surface 33 and the second cutting surface 34 can be either flat or slightly machined into curved surfaces.

[0090] The outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31 is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31 is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. For the first needle tip 31, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 is cut away to form a first cutting edge 33 and a second cutting edge 34.

[0091] like Figures 4-6 As shown, the second needle tip 32 has a third cutting edge 35 and a fourth cutting edge 36, which extend toward the sharp second needle tip 32a. The first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3. In the main view viewed from the direction along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3, as... Figure 6 As shown, the third cutting surface 35 and the fourth cutting surface 36 are symmetrical about the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the third cutting surface 35 and the fourth cutting surface 36 can be either flat or slightly machined into curved surfaces.

[0092] The outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32 is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32 is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. For the second needle tip 32, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 can be cut away to form the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36.

[0093] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the first needle tip 31 and the second needle tip 32 form an opening 4 surrounded by a first cutting edge 33, a second cutting edge 34, a third cutting edge 35 and a fourth cutting edge 36. The opening 4 communicates with the internal space of the tubular portion 30.

[0094] like Figures 4-6 As shown, the first cutting edge 33 and the third cutting edge 35 are connected at the first base end 38 at the edge of the opening 4. The second cutting edge 34 and the fourth cutting edge 36 are connected at the second base end 39 at the edge of the opening 4.

[0095] In the first needle tip 31 and the second needle tip 32, as Figure 5 As shown, a tip region Z1 containing a first needle tip 31a and a second needle tip 32a is defined, a base region Z3 containing a first base end 38 and a second base end 39 is defined, and an intermediate region Z2 is located between the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3 and is connected to the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3.

[0096] (First cutting edge 33 and second cutting edge 34 of the first needle tip 31)

[0097] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the line of intersection of the first cutting edge 33 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31 (first inner intersection line 33c) defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4. The line of intersection of the second cutting edge 34 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31 (second inner intersection line 34c) defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4.

[0098] like Figure 7 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3 (tubular portion 30), the normal vector 33n of the first cutting surface 33 in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the third cutting surface 35 in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Similarly, in this main view, the normal vector 34n of the second cutting surface 34 in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the fourth cutting surface 36 in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0099] And, as Figure 8 As shown, the normal vector 33n of the first cutting edge 33 in the intermediate region Z2 is also directed towards the third cutting edge 35 in the intermediate region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same line V. Furthermore, the normal vector 34n of the second cutting edge 34 in the intermediate region Z2 is also directed towards the fourth cutting edge 36 in the intermediate region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same line V.

[0100] Preferably, such as Figure 8As shown, the normal vector 33n of the first cutting surface 33 in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the normal vector 34n of the second cutting surface 34 in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0101] Preferably, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the normal vector 33n of the first cutting surface 33 and the normal vector 34n of the second cutting surface 34 are compared with the circumferential direction C of the tubular portion 30 in the top region Z1 and are oriented towards the direction close to the central axis O.

[0102] like Figure 5 As shown, the intersection line of the first cutting surface 33 and the second cutting surface 34 (the first tip intersection line 31b) extends from the tip of the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31 to the first needle tip 31a. Furthermore, preferably, in a frontal view viewed from the direction along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3, the first tip intersection line 31b lies on the straight line V.

[0103] The intersection line (first outer intersection line 33b) of the first cutting surface 33 and the outer peripheral surface 31e is the first outer edge 33b having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figures 6-8 As shown, in the main view observed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ1 formed by the first cutting surface 33 at the first outer edge 33b and the outer peripheral surface 31e is an acute angle in the top region Z1, and the angle θ1 is larger as it gets closer to the middle region Z2, forming an obtuse angle in the middle region Z2.

[0104] The intersection line (first inner intersection line 33c) of the first cutting surface 33 and the inner circumferential surface 31i is the first inner edge 33c having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ2 formed by the first cutting surface 33 at the first inner edge 33c and the inner peripheral surface 31i is an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and an acute angle in the middle region Z2.

[0105] The intersection line (second outer intersection line 34b) of the second cutting surface 34 and the outer peripheral surface 31e is the second outer edge 34b having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ3 formed by the second cutting surface 34 at the second outer edge 34b and the outer peripheral surface 31e is an acute angle in the top region Z1, and the angle θ3 is larger as it gets closer to the middle region Z2, forming an obtuse angle in the middle region Z2.

[0106] The intersection line (second inner intersection line 34c) of the second cutting surface 34 and the inner circumferential surface 31i is the second inner edge 34c that has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ4 formed by the second cutting surface 34 at the second inner edge 34c and the inner peripheral surface 31i is an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and an acute angle in the middle region Z2.

[0107] (The third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36 of the second needle tip 32)

[0108] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the line of intersection of the third cutting edge 35 and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32 (the third inner intersection line 35c) defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4. The line of intersection of the fourth cutting edge 36 and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32 (the fourth inner intersection line 36c) defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting surface 35 in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the first cutting surface 33 in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Similarly, in this main view, the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting surface 36 in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the second cutting surface 34 in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0110] And, as Figure 8 As shown, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting edge 35 in the intermediate region Z2 is also directed towards the first cutting edge 33 in the intermediate region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same line V. Furthermore, the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting edge 36 in the intermediate region Z2 is also directed towards the second cutting edge 34 in the intermediate region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same line V.

[0111] Preferably, such as Figures 6-8 As shown, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting edge 35 in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting edge 36 in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0112] Preferably, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting surface 35 and the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting surface 36 are compared with the circumferential direction C of the tubular part 30 in the top region Z1 and are oriented towards the direction closer to the central axis O.

[0113] like Figure 5 As shown, the intersection line of the third cutting surface 35 and the fourth cutting surface 36 (the second tip intersection line 32b) extends from the tip of the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32 to the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, preferably, in a frontal view viewed from the direction along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3, the second tip intersection line 32b lies on the straight line V.

[0114] The intersection line (third outer intersection line 35b) of the third cutting surface 35 and the outer peripheral surface 32e is the third outer edge 35b having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figures 6-8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ5 formed by the third cutting surface 35 at the third outer edge 35b and the outer peripheral surface 32e is an acute angle in the top region Z1, and the angle θ5 is larger as it gets closer to the middle region Z2, forming an obtuse angle in the middle region Z2.

[0115] The intersection line (third inner intersection line 35c) of the third cutting surface 35 and the inner circumferential surface 32i is the third inner edge 35c with an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ6 formed by the third cutting surface 35 at the third inner edge 35c and the inner peripheral surface 32i is an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and an acute angle in the middle region Z2.

[0116] The intersection line (fourth outer intersection line 36b) where the fourth cutting edge 36 intersects the outer peripheral surface 32e is the fourth outer edge 36b having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ7 formed by the fourth cutting surface 36 at the fourth outer edge 36b and the outer peripheral surface 32e is an acute angle in the top region Z1, and the angle θ7 is larger as it gets closer to the middle region Z2, forming an obtuse angle in the middle region Z2.

[0117] The intersection line (fourth inner intersection line 36c) of the fourth cutting edge 36 and the inner circumferential surface 32i is the fourth inner edge 36c with an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3, the angle θ8 formed by the fourth cutting edge 36 and the inner peripheral surface 32i at the fourth inner edge 36c is an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and an acute angle in the middle region Z2.

[0118] like Figure 3 As shown, the sheath 7 preferably includes an outer sheath 71 and an inner sheath 74.

[0119] The outer sheath 71 includes, for example, a coil body 72 made of metal wire wound into a coil shape with its length axis as the central axis, and a cylindrical end head 73 fixed to the top of the coil body 72.

[0120] The coil body 72 has a top end and a base end, and between the top end and the base end is an outer diameter that can be inserted into the channel 107 and an internal space 72a extending along the length axis. The wire constituting the coil body 72 is selected as a material such as stainless steel, shape memory alloy or superelastic alloy, and as a shape such as a circular cross section or a rectangular cross section, with consideration for the bending ease and restoring force of the coil body 72.

[0121] The tip 73 is a cylindrical component that is fixed to the top surface of the coil body 72 and has a through hole through which the needle tube 3 can pass.

[0122] The inner sheath 74 is, for example, a cylindrical member made of resin having a tip 74a and a base. The inner sheath 74 is disposed substantially coaxially with the central axis of the coil body 72 within the internal space 72a of the coil body 72. Furthermore, the inner sheath 74 has an inner circumferential surface 74c and an outer circumferential surface 74d. The inner circumferential surface 74c forms a through-passage for insertion of the needle tube 3, and the outer circumferential surface 74d is disposed within the internal space 72a of the coil body 72, spanning between adjacent wires of the coil body 72, between the tip 74a and the base of the inner sheath 74. This outer circumferential surface 74d covers the gap between the tip 74a and the base of the inner sheath 74 created when the coil body 72 is bent, extending from the inside of the coil body 72. Therefore, the inner sheath 74 functions as a cover member for the coil body 72. The tip 74a of the inner sheath 74 is fixed to the tip head 73. The base of the inner sheath 74 extends to the operating section 109.

[0123] In the entire length of the inner sheath 74, at a position closer to the fixed part of the top end 74a and the top end 73, the inner sheath 74 can slide freely relative to the outer sheath 71.

[0124] In addition, the sheath 7 is a double-layered structure consisting of a coil-shaped outer sheath 71 and a resin-made inner sheath 74, but it may also consist of only either one.

[0125] [Operations Department 8]

[0126] like Figure 2 As shown, the operating unit 8 includes an operating body 9 located at the base end of the sheath 7, a mounting adapter 18 connected to the operating body 9, and a needle slide 23 connected to the base end of the needle tube 3 on the base end side of the operating body 9.

[0127] The operating body 9 has a cavity through which the needle tube 3 and the sheath 7 can pass. An adapter 18 is mounted on the top end of the operating body 9. A tubular needle slide 23 is inserted into the base end of the operating body 9. The operating body 9 and the adapter 18, as well as the operating body 9 and the needle slide 23, engage with each other via grooves or protrusions (not shown) formed on their outer peripheral surfaces, thereby allowing sliding along the axial direction while suppressing relative rotation about the axis.

[0128] The needle slider 23 can move from a first position locked relative to the operating body 9 to a second position abutting against a stop 61, which abuts against the enlarged portion of the operating body 9. During the movement of the needle slider 23 between the first and second positions by the operator, the tip of the needle tube 3 is configured to protrude or retract relative to the tip of the sheath 7.

[0129] The mounting adapter 18 is connected to the operating body 9 in a movable manner relative to the operating body 9, thereby allowing adjustment of the amount of protrusion of the sheath 7 from the tip of the channel 107 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. The tip of the mounting adapter 18 can be attached to and detached from the base tube head 107b of the ultrasonic endoscope 100.

[0130] The needle slider 23 is fixed to the base end of the needle tube 3. Furthermore, the needle slider 23 is connected to the operating body 9 in a manner that allows it to move relative to the operating body 9. Since the base end of the needle tube 3 is fixed to the needle slider 23 protruding from the base end of the sheath 7, by sliding the needle slider 23 relative to the operating body 9, the needle tube 3 can protrude or retract relative to the top end of the sheath 7.

[0131] like Figure 2 As shown, the needle slider 23 is restricted from movement by the stop 61, so that it can only advance relative to the operating body 9 to a position where it contacts the stop 61. By adjusting the fixed position of the stop 61 relative to the operating body 9, the maximum protruding length of the needle tube 3 from the sheath 7 can be adjusted.

[0132] The state in which the needle slider 23 is in its extreme position towards the base of the operating body 9 is the initial state before the use of the puncture needle 1 begins. In the initial state, the tip of the needle tube 3 is inside the sheath 7.

[0133] [Cardiovascular Needle 27]

[0134] The core needle 27 is mounted on the base end of the needle slide 23. The core needle 27 is a needle-shaped component that penetrates the interior of the needle tube 3. The top end of the core needle 27 is not limited to a needle shape; it may have an end face that intersects the length axis of the core needle 27, or it may have a curved surface such as a hemispherical surface.

[0135] Next, the function of the biopsy system 150 in this embodiment will be explained. Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the function of the puncture needle 1. The following description uses a biopsy procedure where a lesion is inserted into the needle tube 3 of the puncture needle 1 and the lesion cells are retrieved from inside the needle tube 3 as an example. Furthermore, the application of the puncture needle 1 described above is not limited to punctures for biopsies of the pancreatic head.

[0136] First, the surgical operator will Figure 1 The insertion portion 101 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100 shown is inserted into the body. While observing using the optical camera mechanism 103, the active bending portion 105 is appropriately bent, and the tip of the insertion portion 101 is guided to the vicinity of the target tissue (the head of the pancreas in this embodiment). After insertion, the surgeon determines the site for biopsy based on the observation results of the optical camera mechanism 103 and the ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104. For example, in the case of performing a biopsy on the head of the pancreas, the insertion portion 101 is moved while the active bending portion 105 is in a bent state, so that the optical camera mechanism 103 and the ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104 provided in the insertion portion 101 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100 reach the duodenum.

[0137] When performing a biopsy of the pancreatic head using an ultrasonic endoscope 100, the active bending portion 105 needs to be bent in order to capture the puncture site of the puncture needle 1 within the field of view of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. In particular, when performing a biopsy of the pancreatic head as in this embodiment, the active bending portion 105 is bent to a degree close to the performance limit of the active bending portion 105 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100.

[0138] Next, the surgeon inserts the puncture needle 1 into the device 2 located at... Figure 1 The base tip 107b of the operating section 109 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100 shown is inserted into the channel 107. Then, the surgeon connects the mounting adapter 18 of the operating section 109 to the base tip 107b. Thus, the operating section 8 of the puncture needle 1 is fixed to the ultrasonic endoscope 100 in a manner that does not rotate relative to the operating section 109.

[0139] Next, the surgeon loosened the fixation screws 10 (see reference). Figure 2While observing the sheath 7 and the body using the optical camera mechanism 103 and the ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104, the operator slides the mounting adapter 18 and the operating body 9 relative to each other to adjust the protrusion of the sheath 7 from the tip of the insertion part 101 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100 to an appropriate amount. After adjustment, the operator tightens the fixing screw 10 to fix the protrusion of the sheath 7. At this time, the tip of the coil body 72 is located within the observation field of view of the observation optical system of the ultrasonic endoscope 100, and the needle slider 23 moves to the first position.

[0140] Next, the surgeon advances the needle 3 relative to the coil body 72. At this time, the coil body 72 of the outer sheath 71 is bent by the active bending portion 105, creating gaps between the wires constituting the coil body 72. However, in this embodiment, the inner sheath 74 is disposed inside the coil body 72 of the outer sheath 71, so that the gaps between the wires of the coil body 72 are covered by the inner sheath 74 from the inside of the coil body 72. As a result, even if the needle 3 is bent at the position of the active bending portion 105, it is less likely to get stuck in the gaps between the wires of the coil body 72.

[0141] Next, based on the observation results of the ultrasonic scanning mechanism 104, the stop 61 is moved considering the distance to the target tissue T that will be biopsied, and the stop 61 is fixed to the operating body 9 at the desired position, and the maximum protruding length of the needle tube 3 from the sheath 7 is adjusted.

[0142] Next, the surgeon moves the needle slide 23 towards the tip of the operating section 8. (As...) Figure 9 As shown, if the needle tube 3 protrudes from the sheath 7, the core needle 27 is pulled back into the needle tube 3. Thus, the needle tube 3 can be inserted into the tissue using the sharp needle tips (first needle tip 31a and second needle tip 32a).

[0143] Next, with the tip of the sheath 7 against the intestinal wall, the surgeon advances the needle slide 23 further towards the tip of the operating section 8, thereby... Figure 9 As shown, the needle tip (first needle tip 31a and second needle tip 32a) of the needle tube 3 protrudes from the top of the sheath 7 and punctures the tissue, being advanced toward the target tissue T to be biopsied. At this time, the core needle 27 is positioned inside the needle tube 3 to prevent tissue that is not the target tissue from entering the needle tube 3.

[0144] The surgeon can use the ultrasound scanning device 104 to obtain positional information of the tip portion of the needle 3 inserted into the tissue. Therefore, the surgeon can utilize... Figure 1The ultrasound observation unit 115 shows an ultrasound image acquired in the ultrasound scanning mechanism 104, displaying an image of the tip portion of the needle tube 3. Referring to the image of the tip portion of the needle tube 3 clearly projected in the ultrasound observation unit 115, the surgeon guides the needle tip (first needle tip 31a and second needle tip 32a) of the needle tube 3 to the target tissue T, which will be the subject of a biopsy.

[0145] Figure 10 This diagram shows the tissue T being moved towards the tip of the operating section 8 when the needle slide 23 is advanced. The normal vector 33n of the first cutting edge 33 and the normal vector 34n of the second cutting edge 34 are directed towards the central axis O in the first needle tip 31a, compared to the circumferential direction C of the tubular portion 30. Furthermore, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting edge 35 and the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting edge 36 are directed towards the central axis O in the second needle tip 32a, compared to the circumferential direction C of the tubular portion 30. Therefore, the needle tube 3 allows the cut tissue T to be properly moved into the interior of the needle tube 3.

[0146] As the surgeon advances the needle slide 23 further toward the tip of the operating section 8, the target tissue T is cut off by the first outer edge 33b, the second outer edge 34b, the third outer edge 35b, and the fourth outer edge 36b. In the tip region Z1, the first outer edge 33b, the second outer edge 34b, the third outer edge 35b, and the fourth outer edge 36b are acute angles, which allow for proper cutting of the target tissue T.

[0147] To aspirate tissue into the needle tube 3, the surgeon removes the core needle 27 from the insert 2 and the operating part 8. This creates a through hole extending from the tip of the needle tube 3 to the base of the needle slide 23. The surgeon connects a syringe or the like to the port located at the base of the needle slide 23 to aspirate into the needle tube 3, and aspirates and extracts cells of the target tissue T from the tip of the needle tube 3.

[0148] If the required amount of cells can be extracted, the needle tube 3 is withdrawn from the tissue by retracting the needle slide 23 towards the base of the operating section 8, and the tip of the needle tube 3 is stored in the sheath 7. Once the needle tube 3 is withdrawn from the tissue, the adapter 18 is detached from the base of the operating section 109 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100, and the puncture needle 1 is withdrawn from the channel 107. Finally, the ultrasonic endoscope 100 is withdrawn from the patient, completing the series of procedures.

[0149] The biopsy system 150 equipped with the puncture needle 1 of this embodiment has high punctureability for puncturing body tissue (the puncture needle 1 is easy to insert into body tissue), and it is easy to retrieve the excised body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis) into the interior of the puncture needle 1. The normal vector 33n of the first cutting edge 33 and the normal vector 34n of the second cutting edge 34 in the tip region Z1 are directed towards the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36 in the tip region Z1, respectively, compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, in this main view, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting edge 35 and the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting edge 36 in the tip region Z1 are directed towards the first cutting edge 33 and the second cutting edge 34 in the tip region Z1, compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Therefore, the puncture needle 1 can appropriately move the target tissue T into the interior of the needle tube 3.

[0150] Furthermore, the first outer edge 33b, the second outer edge 34b, the third outer edge 35b, and the fourth outer edge 36b of the puncture needle 1 in the tip region Z1 are acute angles, which can properly cut the target tissue T when the surgeon advances the needle slide 23 further toward the tip side of the operating part 8.

[0151] The first embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included. Furthermore, the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0152] (Variation Example 1)

[0153] In the above embodiments, the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31 and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32 are not processed, but the appearance of the first needle tip and the second needle tip is not limited to this.

[0154] exist Figure 11 In the needle tube 3C shown as a modified example of needle tube 3, a back-cutting process B is performed on the outer peripheral surface of the first needle tip 31 and the outer peripheral surface of the second needle tip 32. This improves the penetration ability of the first needle tip 31 and the second needle tip 32 into body tissue. In other words, the needle tips 31a and 32a can easily penetrate the surface of body tissue. Furthermore, the needle tips 31a and 32a of needle tube 3C are less likely to touch the inner surface of the sheath 7, resulting in higher operability.

[0155] exist Figure 12In the needle tube 3D shown as a modified example of needle tube 3, at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the tip region Z1 is subjected to a cutting surface M formed by a conical cut centered on the inner peripheral surfaces (31i, 32i). The first needle tip 31 and the second needle tip 32 have higher penetration into the body tissue. That is, the needle tips 31a and 32a are easier to penetrate the surface of the body tissue. Furthermore, the needle tips 31a and 32a of needle tube 3D are less likely to touch the inner surface of the sheath 7, resulting in higher operability.

[0156] (Second Implementation)

[0157] Reference Figures 13-17 This section describes a biopsy system 150B incorporating the endoscopic puncture needle 1B according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for structures common to those already described, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0158] [Biopsy System 150B]

[0159] The biopsy system 150B is a medical device used to extract tissue from the body during a biopsy. The biopsy system 150B includes an ultrasonic endoscope 100 and an endoscopic puncture needle 1B (hereinafter referred to as "puncture needle 1B"). The puncture needle 1B includes an insert 2B, an operating part 8, and a core needle 27.

[0160] [Insertion 2B]

[0161] The insert 2B is an elongated component that can pass through the channel 107 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. The insert 2B includes a needle 3B and a sheath 7.

[0162] Figure 13 This is a 3D diagram of syringe 3B. Figure 14 This is a side view of syringe 3B. Figure 15 This is a front view of the needle tube 3B viewed from the top of axis A. It is a diagram showing the changes in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, arranged at equal intervals along the length axis. Figure 15 The single-dotted line shown represents the intersection of the cross sections perpendicular to the axial direction A, which are arranged at equal intervals along the axial direction A, with the first cutting edge 33B, the second cutting edge 34B, the third cutting edge 35B, and the fourth cutting edge 36B. Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of needle 3B along the X-X section. Figure 17 yes Figure 14 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of needle 3B along the Y-Y section.

[0163] like Figure 13As shown, the needle tube 3B includes a tubular portion 30 and a first needle tip 31B and a second needle tip 32B located at the top end of the tubular portion 30. The needle tube 3B can be moved in and out of the sheath 7 using the operating part 8. An opening 4B is formed at the top end of the needle tube 3B, which serves as an entrance for tissue inserted into the first needle tip 31B and the second needle tip 32B to enter the interior of the needle tube 3B. The first needle tip 31B and the second needle tip 32B of the needle tube 3B can protrude or retract relative to the opening at the top end of the sheath 7.

[0164] like Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, the first needle tip 31B has a first cutting edge 33B and a second cutting edge 34B, which extend toward the sharp first needle tip 31a. In a front view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3B (tubular portion 30), as... Figure 15 As shown, the first cutting surface 33B and the second cutting surface 34B are symmetrical about the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the first cutting surface 33B and the second cutting surface 34B can be either flat or slightly machined into curved surfaces.

[0165] The outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31B is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31B is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. For the first needle tip 31B, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 can be cut away to form a first cutting edge 33B and a second cutting edge 34B.

[0166] like Figure 13 As shown, the second needle tip 32B has a third cutting edge 35B and a fourth cutting edge 36B, which extend toward the sharp second needle tip 32a. The first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3B. In the main view viewed from the direction along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3B, as... Figure 15 As shown, the third cutting surface 35B and the fourth cutting surface 36B are symmetrical shapes with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the third cutting surface 35B and the fourth cutting surface 36B can be either flat or slightly machined into curved surfaces.

[0167] The outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32B is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32B is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. For the second needle tip 32B, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 can be cut away to form the third cutting edge 35B and the fourth cutting edge 36B.

[0168] like Figures 13-15 As shown, the first needle tip 31B and the second needle tip 32B form an opening 4B surrounded by a first cutting edge 33B, a second cutting edge 34B, a third cutting edge 35B, and a fourth cutting edge 36B. The opening 4B communicates with the internal space of the tubular portion 30.

[0169] like Figures 13-15 As shown, the first cutting edge 33B and the third cutting edge 35B are connected at the first base end 38B of the opening 4B. The second cutting edge 34B and the fourth cutting edge 36B are connected at the second base end 39B of the opening 4B.

[0170] In the first needle tip 31B and the second needle tip 32B, as Figure 14 As shown, a tip region Z1 containing a first needle tip 31a and a second needle tip 32a is defined, a base region Z3 containing a first base end 38B and a second base end 39B is defined, and an intermediate region Z2 is located between the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3 and is connected to the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3.

[0171] (First cutting edge 33B and second cutting edge 34B of the first needle tip 31B)

[0172] like Figure 13 and Figure 16 As shown, the line of intersection (first inner intersection line 33Bc) between the first cutting surface 33B and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31B defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4B. The line of intersection (second inner intersection line 34Bc) between the second cutting surface 34B and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31B defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4B.

[0173] like Figure 16 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3B, the normal vector 33Bn of the first cutting surface 33B in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the third cutting surface 35B in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Similarly, in this main view, the normal vector 34Bn of the second cutting surface 34B in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the fourth cutting surface 36B in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0174] And, as Figure 17As shown, the normal vector 33Bn of the first cutting edge 33B in the intermediate region Z2 is also directed towards the third cutting edge 35B in the intermediate region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same line V. Furthermore, the normal vector 34Bn of the second cutting edge 34B in the intermediate region Z2 is also directed towards the fourth cutting edge 36B in the intermediate region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same line V.

[0175] Preferably, such as Figure 17 As shown, the normal vector 33Bn of the first cutting surface 33B in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the normal vector 34Bn of the second cutting surface 34B in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0176] Preferably, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the normal vector 33Bn of the first cutting surface 33B is compared with the circumferential direction C of the tubular part 30 in the top region Z1 and is oriented towards the direction close to the central axis O.

[0177] like Figure 14 As shown, the intersection line of the first cutting surface 33B and the second cutting surface 34B (the first tip intersection line 31b) extends from the tip of the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31B to the first needle tip 31a. In addition, in the main view viewed from the direction along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3B, the first tip intersection line 31b lies on the straight line V.

[0178] The first cutting surface 33B also has a first cutting edge 33C on the tip side in the tip region Z1. The normal vector of the first cutting edge 33C points at an acute angle to the line V, and the normal vector 33Bn of the first cutting surface 33B points at an acute angle relative to the line V that is smaller than the angle of the normal vector of the first cutting edge 33C relative to the line V. Figures 13-16 As shown, the ridge line where the first cutting edge 33B and the first cutting edge 33C intersect extends from the first top intersection line 31b toward the middle region Z2.

[0179] The second cutting surface 34B also has a second cutting surface 34C on the tip side in the tip region Z1. The normal vector of the second cutting surface 34C points at an acute angle to the line V, and the normal vector 34Bn of the second cutting surface 34B points at an acute angle relative to the line V that is smaller than the angle of the normal vector of the second cutting surface 34C relative to the line V. Figures 13-16 As shown, the ridge line where the second cutting edge 34B and the second cutting edge 34C intersect extends from the first top intersection line 31b toward the middle region Z2.

[0180] The line of intersection of the first cutting surface 33B and the outer peripheral surface 31e (the first outer intersection line 33Bb) is the first outer edge 33Bb having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3B, the angle θ1 formed by the first cutting surface 33B at the first outer edge 33Bb and the outer peripheral surface 31e forms an acute angle in the tip region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0181] The intersection line (first inner intersection line 33Bc) of the first cutting surface 33B and the inner circumferential surface 31i is the first inner edge 33Bc having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ2 formed by the first cutting edge 33B at the first inner edge 33Bc and the inner peripheral surface 31i forms an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0182] The intersection line (second outer intersection line 34Bb) where the second cutting surface 34B intersects the outer peripheral surface 31e is the second outer edge 34Bb having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ3 formed by the second cutting edge 34B at the second outer edge 34Bb and the outer peripheral surface 31e forms an acute angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0183] The intersection line (second inner intersection line 34Bc) of the second cutting surface 34B and the inner circumferential surface 31i is the second inner edge 34Bc having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ4 formed by the second cutting edge 34B at the second inner edge 34Bc and the inner peripheral surface 31i forms an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0184] (The third cutting edge 35B and the fourth cutting edge 36B of the second needle tip 32B)

[0185] like Figure 13 and Figure 16 As shown, the line of intersection of the third cutting edge 35B and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32B (the third inner intersection line 35Bc) defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4B. The line of intersection of the fourth cutting edge 36B and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32B (the fourth inner intersection line 36Bc) defines a portion of the outline of the opening 4B.

[0186] In the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3B, the normal vector 35Bn of the third cutting surface 35B in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the first cutting surface 33B in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Similarly, in the same main view, the normal vector 36Bn of the fourth cutting surface 36B in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the second cutting surface 34B in the tip region Z1 compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0187] Furthermore, the normal vector 35Bn of the third cutting edge 35B in the intermediate region Z2, like that of the top region Z1, is directed towards the first cutting edge 33B in the intermediate region Z2, in a direction orthogonal to the same line V. Similarly, the normal vector 36Bn of the fourth cutting edge 36B in the intermediate region Z2, like that of the top region Z1, is directed towards the second cutting edge 34B in the intermediate region Z2, in a direction orthogonal to the same line V.

[0188] Preferably, such as Figures 15-17 As shown, the normal vector 35Bn of the third cutting edge 35B in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, the normal vector 36Bn of the fourth cutting edge 36B in the intermediate region Z2 is oriented at an acute angle to the straight line V connecting the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0189] Preferably, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the normal vector 35Bn of the third cutting surface 35B is compared with the circumferential direction C of the tubular part 30 in the top region Z1 and is oriented towards the direction close to the central axis O.

[0190] like Figure 14 As shown, the intersection line of the third cutting surface 35B and the fourth cutting surface 36B (the second tip intersection line 32b) extends from the tip of the inner circumferential surface 32i of the second needle tip 32B to the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, in the main view taken along the axis of the needle tube 3B, the second tip intersection line 32b lies on the straight line V.

[0191] The third cutting edge 35B also has a third cutting edge 35C on the tip side in the tip region Z1. The normal vector of the third cutting edge 35C points at an acute angle to the line V, and the normal vector 35Bn of the third cutting edge 35B points at an acute angle relative to the line V that is smaller than the angle of the normal vector of the third cutting edge 35C relative to the line V. Figures 13-16 As shown, the ridge line where the third cutting edge 35B and the third cutting edge 35C intersect extends from the second top intersection line 32b toward the middle region Z2.

[0192] The fourth cutting edge 36B also has a fourth cutting edge 36C on the tip side in the tip region Z1. The normal vector of the fourth cutting edge 36C points at an acute angle to the line V, and the normal vector 36Bn of the fourth cutting edge 36B points at an acute angle relative to the line V that is smaller than the angle of the normal vector of the fourth cutting edge 36C relative to the line V. Figures 13-16 As shown, the edge line where the fourth cutting edge 36B and the fourth cutting edge 36C intersect extends from the second top intersection line 32b toward the middle region Z2.

[0193] The line of intersection of the third cutting surface 35B and the outer peripheral surface 32e (the third outer intersection line 35Bb) is the third outer edge 35Bb having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ5 formed by the third cutting edge 35B at the third outer edge 35Bb and the outer peripheral surface 32e forms an acute angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0194] The intersection line (third inner intersection line 35Bc) of the third cutting surface 35B and the inner circumferential surface 32i is the third inner edge 35Bc with an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ6 formed by the third cutting edge 35B at the third inner edge 35Bc and the inner peripheral surface 32i forms an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0195] The line of intersection of the fourth cutting edge 36B and the outer peripheral surface 32e (the fourth outer intersection line 36Bb) is the fourth outer edge 36Bb having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ7 formed by the fourth cutting edge 36B at the fourth outer edge 36Bb and the outer peripheral surface 32e forms an acute angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0196] The intersection line (fourth inner intersection line 36Bc) where the fourth cutting surface 36B intersects the inner circumferential surface 32i is the fourth inner edge 36Bc having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the angle θ8 formed by the fourth cutting edge 36B at the fourth inner edge 36Bc and the inner peripheral surface 32i forms an obtuse angle in the top region Z1 and the middle region Z2.

[0197] The biopsy system 150B equipped with the puncture needle 1B of this embodiment has high punctureability into body tissue (the puncture needle 1B is easy to insert into body tissue), and it is easy to retrieve the excised body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis) into the interior of the puncture needle 1B. The normal vector 33Bn of the first cutting edge 33B and the normal vector 34Bn of the second cutting edge 34B in the tip region Z1 are directed towards the third cutting edge 35B and the fourth cutting edge 36B in the tip region Z1, respectively, compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, in this main view, the normal vector 35Bn of the third cutting edge 35B and the normal vector 36Bn of the fourth cutting edge 36B in the tip region Z1 are directed towards the first cutting edge 33B and the second cutting edge 34B in the tip region Z1, compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Therefore, the puncture needle 1B enables the excised tissue T to be properly moved into the interior of the needle tube 3B.

[0198] Furthermore, the first outer edge 33Bb, the second outer edge 34Bb, the third outer edge 35Bb, and the fourth outer edge 36Bb of the puncture needle 1B in the tip region Z1 and the middle region Z2 are acute angles, which enable the surgeon to cut off more of the target tissue T when the needle slide 23 is further advanced toward the tip side of the operating part 8.

[0199] The second embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included. Furthermore, the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0200] (Third Implementation)

[0201] Reference Figures 18-22 A biopsy system 150E incorporating the endoscopic puncture needle 1E of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used for structures common to those already described, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. The endoscopic puncture needle 1E, compared to the endoscopic puncture needle 1 of the first embodiment, further has a fifth cutting edge 41 and a sixth cutting edge 42.

[0202] [Biopsy System 150E]

[0203] The biopsy system 150E is a medical device used to extract tissue from the body during a biopsy. The biopsy system 150E includes an ultrasonic endoscope 100 and an endoscopic puncture needle 1E (hereinafter referred to as "puncture needle 1E"). The puncture needle 1E includes an insert 2E, an operating part 8, and a core needle 27.

[0204] [Insertion 2E]

[0205] The insert 2E is an elongated component that can pass through the channel 107 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. The insert 2E includes a needle 3E and a sheath 7.

[0206] Figure 18 This is a 3D image of the syringe 3E. Figure 19 This is a side view of syringe 3E. Figure 20 It is the syringe 3E from and Figure 19 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis O. Figure 21 This is a front view of the needle tube 3E viewed from the top of axis A. It is a diagram showing the changes in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, arranged at equal intervals along the length axis. Figure 21 The single-dotted line shown represents the intersection of the cross sections perpendicular to the axial direction A, which are arranged at equal intervals along the axial direction A, with the first cutting edge 33, the second cutting edge 34, the third cutting edge 35, the fourth cutting edge 36, the fifth cutting edge 41, and the sixth cutting edge 42. Figure 22 This is a top view observed from the radial direction R of the needle tube 3E, and in a direction horizontal to the straight line V. Figure 23 From and Figure 22 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis O. Figure 24 yes Figure 19 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of needle 3E along the Z-Z section.

[0207] like Figure 18 As shown, the needle tube 3E includes a tubular portion 30 and a first needle tip 31E and a second needle tip 32E located at the top end of the tubular portion 30. The needle tube 3E can be moved forward and backward within the sheath 7 using the operating part 8. An opening 4 is formed at the top end of the needle tube 3E, which serves as an entrance for tissue inserted into the first needle tip 31E and the second needle tip 32E to enter the interior of the needle tube 3E. The first needle tip 31E and the second needle tip 32E of the needle tube 3E can protrude or retract relative to the opening at the top end of the sheath 7.

[0208] like Figures 18-22 As shown, the first needle tip 31E has a first cutting surface 33 and a second cutting surface 34, which extend toward the sharp first needle tip 31a.

[0209] The outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31E is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. For the first needle tip 31E, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 is cut away to form a first cutting edge 33 and a second cutting edge 34.

[0210] like Figures 18-21 and Figure 23 As shown, the second needle tip 32E has a third cutting edge 35 and a fourth cutting edge 36, which extend toward the sharp second needle tip 32a. The first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3E.

[0211] The outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32E is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. For the second needle tip 32E, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 can be cut away to form the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36.

[0212] like Figures 18-23 As shown, the first needle tip 31E and the second needle tip 32E form the edge of the opening 4 surrounded by the first cutting edge 33, the second cutting edge 34, the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36. The opening 4 communicates with the internal space of the tubular portion 30.

[0213] like Figures 18-23 As shown, the first cutting edge 33 and the third cutting edge 35 are connected at the first base end 38 at the edge of the opening 4. The second cutting edge 34 and the fourth cutting edge 36 are connected at the second base end 39 at the edge of the opening 4.

[0214] In the first needle tip 31E and the second needle tip 32E, as Figure 19 As shown, a tip region Z1 containing a first needle tip 31a and a second needle tip 32a is defined; a base region Z3 containing a first base end 38 and a second base end 39 is defined; and an intermediate region Z2 is located between and connected to the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3. Furthermore, the region within the base region Z3 that is closer to the tip side of the first base end 38 and the second base end 39 in the axial direction A is defined as the first base region Z31, and the region closer to the base end side of the first base end 38 and the second base end 39 is defined as the second base region Z32.

[0215] The first needle tip 31E and the second needle tip 32E have a fifth cutting edge 41 and a sixth cutting edge 42 on the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E.

[0216] (Fifth cutting edge 41 and sixth cutting edge 42)

[0217] The fifth cutting edge 41 is a cutting edge formed on the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E. For example... Figure 22 and Figure 23As shown, the fifth cutting edge 41 is an inclined surface relative to the central axis O. As the needle travels from the base end of the needle tube 3E towards the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a, the distance between the fifth cutting edge 41 and the central axis O gradually decreases. The fifth cutting edge 41 has a first outer intersection point 33d (refer to...) which is the intersection point with the first outer intersection line (first outer edge) 33b. Figure 22 ) and the third outer intersection point 35d, which is the intersection with the third outer intersection line (third outer edge) 35b (refer to Figure 23 ).like Figure 20 and Figure 22 As shown, the first outer intersection line 33b is the intersection line formed by the first cutting surface 33 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E. For example... Figure 20 and Figure 23 As shown, the third outer intersection line 35b is the intersection line formed by the outer peripheral surface 32e of the third cutting edge 35 and the second needle tip 32E. The fifth cutting edge 41 intersects the first outer intersection line 33b at the first outer intersection point 33d, and the fifth cutting edge 41 intersects the third outer intersection line 35b at the third outer intersection point 35d.

[0218] like Figure 24 As shown, the intersection line of the fifth cutting edge 41 and the first cutting edge 33 is defined as the first intermediate edge 33f. The intersection line of the fifth cutting edge 41 and the third cutting edge 35 is defined as the third intermediate edge 35f. Figure 20 As shown, the first intermediate edge 33f and the third intermediate edge 35f are connected at the first base end 38.

[0219] like Figures 21-23 As shown, in the first base end region Z31, the thickness T1 between the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31E decreases as it moves from the first outer intersection point 33d toward the first base end 38. Furthermore, in the first base end region Z31, the thickness T1 between the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32E decreases as it moves from the third outer intersection point 35d toward the first base end 38.

[0220] like Figures 21-23 As shown, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T1 between the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31E increases as it moves from the first base end 38 toward the base end of the needle tube 3E. Similarly, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T1 between the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32E increases as it moves from the first base end 38 toward the base end of the needle tube 3E. That is, the thickness T1 between the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i decreases as it moves from the base end of the fifth cutting edge 41 toward the first base end 38.

[0221] like Figure 20As shown, in a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the first outer intersection point 33d and the third outer intersection point 35d of the fifth cutting surface 41 are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3E. Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the first outer intersection point 33d and the third outer intersection point 35d are located at the top of the fifth cutting edge 41.

[0222] The intersection line formed by the fifth cutting edge 41 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E is defined as the fifth intersection line 410. For example... Figure 20 As shown, the interval between the first part 411 of the fifth intersection line 410, which is connected to the first outer intersection point 33d, and the third part 412 of the fifth intersection line 410, which is connected to the third outer intersection point 35d, gradually narrows as it moves from the top of the fifth cutting edge 41 toward the base.

[0223] like Figure 23 As shown, a first base edge 38e is formed in the second base region Z32, with the first base 38 as its apex. The first base edge 38e is a sharp edge formed by the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i. By thinning the thickness T1 at the first base 38, the resistance encountered by the first base 38 during puncture of the needle 3E into the body tissue can be reduced. Furthermore, the first base edge 38e is formed in the first base 38 by reducing the apex angle formed by the fifth cutting edge 41 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i.

[0224] The sixth cutting edge 42 is a cutting edge formed on the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E. For example... Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the sixth cutting edge 42 is an inclined surface relative to the central axis O. As the needle travels from the base end of the needle tube 3E towards the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a, the distance between the sixth cutting edge 42 and the central axis O gradually decreases. The sixth cutting edge 42 has a second outer intersection point 34d (refer to...) which is the intersection point with the second outer intersection line (second outer edge) 34b. Figure 22 ) and the fourth outer intersection point 36d, which is the intersection with the fourth outer intersection line (fourth outer edge) 36b (refer to Figure 23 ).like Figure 19 and Figure 22 As shown, the second outer intersection line 34b is the intersection line formed by the second cutting surface 34 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E. For example... Figure 19 and Figure 23As shown, the fourth outer intersection line 36b is the intersection line formed by the fourth cutting edge 36 and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E. The sixth cutting edge 42 intersects the second outer intersection line 34b at the second outer intersection point 34d, and the sixth cutting edge 42 intersects the fourth outer intersection line 36b at the fourth outer intersection point 36d.

[0225] like Figure 24 As shown, the intersection line of the sixth cutting edge 42 and the first cutting edge 33 is defined as the second intermediate edge 34f. The intersection line of the sixth cutting edge 42 and the fourth cutting edge 36 is defined as the fourth intermediate edge 36f. Figure 19 As shown, the second intermediate edge 34f and the fourth intermediate edge 36f are connected at the second base end 39.

[0226] like Figures 21-23 As shown, in the first base end region Z31, the thickness T1 between the sixth cutting edge 42 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31E decreases as it moves from the second outer intersection point 34d toward the second base end 39. Similarly, in the first base end region Z31, the thickness T1 decreases as it moves from the fourth outer intersection point 36d toward the second base end 39.

[0227] like Figures 21-23 As shown, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T1 between the sixth cutting edge 42 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31E increases as it moves from the second base end 39 toward the base end side. Similarly, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T1 between the sixth cutting edge 42 and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32E increases as it moves from the second base end 39 toward the base end side. That is, the thickness T1 between the sixth cutting edge 42 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i decreases as it moves from the base end of the sixth cutting edge 42 toward the second base end 39.

[0228] like Figure 19 As shown, in a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the second outer intersection point 34d and the fourth outer intersection point 36d of the sixth cutting surface 42 are formed at a position symmetrical with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3E. Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the first outer intersection point 33d and the third outer intersection point 35d are located at the top of the sixth cutting surface 42.

[0229] The intersection line formed by the sixth cutting edge 42 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E is defined as the sixth intersection line 420. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the interval between the second part 421 in the sixth intersection line, which is connected to the second outer intersection point 34d, and the fourth part 422 in the sixth intersection line, which is connected to the fourth outer intersection point 36d, gradually narrows as it moves from the top of the sixth cutting edge 42 toward the base.

[0230] like Figure 23 As shown, a second base edge 39e is formed in the second base region Z32, with the second base 39 as its apex. The second base edge 39e is a sharp edge formed by the sixth cutting edge 42 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i. By thinning the thickness T1 at the second base 39, the resistance encountered by the second base 39 during puncture of the needle 3E into the body tissue can be reduced. Furthermore, the second base edge 39e is formed in the second base 39 by reducing the apex angle formed by the sixth cutting edge 42 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i.

[0231] The fifth cutting edge 41 and the sixth cutting edge 42 are formed, for example, by cutting the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30 of the needle tube 3E. Preferably, as Figure 21 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3E (tubular portion 30), the first outer intersection point 33d and the second outer intersection point 34d are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, it is also preferable that, in this main view, the third outer intersection point 35d and the fourth outer intersection point 36d are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0232] The biopsy system 150E equipped with the puncture needle 1E of this embodiment not only has the first outer edge 33b, the second outer edge 34b, the third outer edge 35b, and the fourth outer edge 36b, but also the first basal edge 38e and the second basal edge 39e cut into the body tissue, thereby facilitating the extraction of body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis).

[0233] The biopsy system 150E equipped with the puncture needle 1E of this embodiment has high punctureability for puncturing body tissue (the puncture needle 1E is easy to cut into body tissue), and it is easy to retrieve the excised body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis) into the interior of the puncture needle 1E. The needle tube 3E has higher punctureability in addition to its extractability because its first base 38 and second base 39 are thinner and sharper than those of the needle tube 3 of the first embodiment.

[0234] The third embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included. Furthermore, the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0235] (Modified Example)

[0236] In the above embodiments, the fifth cutting surface 41 and the sixth cutting surface 42 are formed as planes, but the fifth cutting surface 41 and the sixth cutting surface 42 are not limited to this. Figure 25This is a perspective view showing a modified example of the sixth cutting surface 42, namely the sixth cutting surface 42B. The sixth cutting surface 42B is formed into a curved surface by machining with an end mill. Similar to the embodiment described above, a second base edge 39e is formed with the second base end 39 as its apex by providing the sixth cutting surface 42B. Furthermore, the thickness T1 between the sixth cutting surface 42B and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31E increases as it moves from the second base end 39 toward the base end side. The same applies to the fifth cutting surface 41.

[0237] (Fourth Implementation)

[0238] Reference Figures 26-35 This section describes a biopsy system 150F incorporating the endoscopic puncture needle 1F according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for structures common to those already described, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Compared to the endoscopic puncture needle 1 of the first embodiment, the endoscopic puncture needle 1F further comprises a seventh cutting edge 43 and an eighth cutting edge 44.

[0239] [Biopsy System 150F]

[0240] The biopsy system 150F is a medical device used to extract tissue from the body during a biopsy. The biopsy system 150F includes an ultrasonic endoscope 100 and an endoscopic puncture needle 1F (hereinafter referred to as "puncture needle 1F"). The puncture needle 1F includes an insert 2F, an operating part 8, and a core needle 27.

[0241] [Insertion 2F]

[0242] The insert 2F is an elongated component that can pass through the channel 107 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. The insert 2F includes a needle 3F and a sheath 7.

[0243] Figure 26 This is a 3D view of the syringe 3F. Figure 27 This is a side view of syringe 3F. Figure 28 It is the syringe 3F from and Figure 27 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis O. Figure 29 This is a front view of the needle tube 3F viewed from the top of axis A. It is a diagram showing the changes in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, arranged at equal intervals along the length axis. Figure 29 The single-dotted line shown represents the intersection of the cross sections perpendicular to the axial direction A, which are arranged at equal intervals along the axial direction A, with the first cutting edge 33, the second cutting edge 34, the third cutting edge 35, the fourth cutting edge 36, the seventh cutting edge 43, and the eighth cutting edge 44. Figure 30 yes Figure 27 The sectional view of syringe 3F shown along line B-B is Figure 29 An enlarged cross-sectional view of region S shown. Figure 31This is a top view observed from the radial direction R of the needle tube 3F, and in a direction horizontal to the straight line V. Figure 32 From and Figure 31 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis O.

[0244] Figure 33 yes Figure 27 The cross-sectional view of needle 3F along line A-A shown. Figure 34 yes Figure 27 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of syringe 3F along line B-B. Figure 35 yes Figure 27 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the needle 3F along line C-C. Line A-A passes through the first inner intersection point 33e, the second inner intersection point 34e, the third inner intersection point 35e, and the fourth inner intersection point 36e, described later. Line C-C passes through the first base point 38 and the second base point 39.

[0245] like Figure 26 As shown, the needle tube 3F includes a tubular portion 30 and a first needle tip 31F and a second needle tip 32F located at the top end of the tubular portion 30. The needle tube 3F can be moved forward and backward within the sheath 7 using the operating part 8. An opening 4 is formed at the top end of the needle tube 3F, which serves as an entrance for tissue inserted into the first needle tip 31F and the second needle tip 32F to enter the interior of the needle tube 3F. The first needle tip 31F and the second needle tip 32F of the needle tube 3F can protrude or retract relative to the opening at the top end of the sheath 7.

[0246] like Figures 26-31 As shown, the first needle tip 31F has a first cutting surface 33 and a second cutting surface 34, which extend toward the sharp first needle tip 31a.

[0247] The outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31F is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, having the same diameter and curvature. For the first needle tip 31F, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 is cut away to form a first cutting edge 33 and a second cutting edge 34.

[0248] like Figures 26-29 and Figure 32 As shown, the second needle tip 32F has a third cutting edge 35 and a fourth cutting edge 36, which extend toward the sharp second needle tip 32a. The first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3F.

[0249] The outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32F is a curved surface continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. Furthermore, the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32F is a curved surface continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. For the second needle tip 32F, for example, a portion of the tubular portion 30 can be cut away to form the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36.

[0250] like Figures 26-32 As shown, the first needle tip 31F and the second needle tip 32F form the edge of the opening 4 surrounded by the first cutting edge 33, the second cutting edge 34, the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36. The opening 4 communicates with the internal space of the tubular portion 30.

[0251] like Figures 26-32 As shown, the first cutting edge 33 and the third cutting edge 35 are connected at the first base end 38 at the edge of the opening 4. The second cutting edge 34 and the fourth cutting edge 36 are connected at the second base end 39 at the edge of the opening 4B.

[0252] In the first needle tip 31F and the second needle tip 32F, as Figure 27 As shown, a tip region Z1 containing a first needle tip 31a and a second needle tip 32a is defined; a base region Z3 containing a first base end 38 and a second base end 39 is defined; and an intermediate region Z2 is located between and connected to the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3. Furthermore, the region within the base region Z3 that is closer to the tip side of the first base end 38 and the second base end 39 in the axial direction A is defined as the first base region Z31, and the region closer to the base end side of the first base end 38 and the second base end 39 is defined as the second base region Z32.

[0253] The first needle tip 31F and the second needle tip 32F have a seventh cutting edge 43 and an eighth cutting edge 44 on their inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i, respectively. The first needle tip 31F and the second needle tip 32F may have, in addition to the seventh cutting edge 43 and the eighth cutting edge 44, a fifth cutting edge 41 and a sixth cutting edge 42 as described in the third embodiment, or they may not have the fifth cutting edge 41 and the sixth cutting edge 42, and instead have the seventh cutting edge 43 and the eighth cutting edge 44.

[0254] (Seventh cutting edge 43 and eighth cutting edge 44)

[0255] The seventh cutting edge 43 is a cutting edge formed on the inner circumferential surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F and the inner circumferential surface 32i of the second needle tip 32F. For example... Figure 29 As shown, the seventh cutting edge 43 has a first inner intersection point 33e, which is the intersection point with the first inner intersection line (first inner edge) 33c (refer to...). Figure 31) and the third inner intersection point 35e, which is the intersection point with the third inner intersection line (third inner edge) 35c (refer to Figure 32 ).like Figure 28 and Figure 31 As shown, the first inner intersection line 33c is the intersection line formed by the first cutting surface 33 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F. For example... Figure 28 and Figure 32 As shown, the third inner intersection line 35c is the intersection line formed by the inner circumferential surface 32i of the third cutting edge 35 and the second needle tip 32F. The seventh cutting edge 43 intersects the first inner intersection line 33c at the first inner intersection point 33e, and the seventh cutting edge 43 intersects the third inner intersection line 35c at the third inner intersection point 35e.

[0256] like Figures 33-35 As shown, the line of intersection between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the first cutting edge 33 is defined as the first intermediate edge 33f. The line of intersection between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the third cutting edge 35 is defined as the third intermediate edge 35f. The first intermediate edge 33f and the third intermediate edge 35f are connected at the first base end 38.

[0257] like Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, the angle 33k between the seventh cutting surface 43 at the first intermediate edge 33f and the first cutting surface 33 decreases as it moves from the tip of the needle tube 3F toward the base.

[0258] like Figure 29 and Figure 34 As shown, the angle 35k between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the third cutting edge 35 at the third intermediate edge 35f decreases as it moves from the top to the base.

[0259] like Figure 29 As shown, in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction A, the curvature of the curve formed by the first intermediate edge 33f and the third intermediate edge 35f is greater than the curvature of the inner circumferential surface 30i of the tubular portion 30.

[0260] like Figures 29-32 As shown, in the first base region Z31, the thickness T2 between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31F decreases as it moves from the first inner intersection point 33e toward the first base end 38. Similarly, in the first base region Z31, the thickness T2 decreases as it moves from the third inner intersection point 35e toward the first base end 38.

[0261] like Figures 29-32As shown, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T2 between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31F increases as it moves from the first base end 38 toward the base end of the needle tube 3F. Similarly, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T2 between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32F increases as it moves from the first base end 38 toward the base end of the needle tube 3F. That is, the thickness T1 between the seventh cutting edge 43 and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e decreases as it moves from the base end of the seventh cutting edge toward the first base end 38.

[0262] In a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the first inner intersection point 33e and the third inner intersection point 35e are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3F. For example... Figure 31 and Figure 32 As shown, the first inner intersection point 33e and the third inner intersection point 35e are located at the top of the seventh cutting surface 43.

[0263] The intersection line formed by the seventh cutting edge 43 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F is defined as the seventh intersection line 430. For example... Figure 28 As shown, the gap between the first part 431 of the seventh intersection line 430, which is connected to the inner circumferential surface 31i, and the third part 432 of the seventh intersection line 430, which is connected to the inner circumferential surface 32i, gradually narrows as it moves from the top of the seventh cutting edge 43 toward the base end.

[0264] like Figure 32 As shown, a first base edge 38f is formed in the second base region Z32, with the first base 38 as its apex. The first base edge 38f is a sharp edge formed by the seventh cutting edge 43 and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e. By thinning the thickness T2 at the first base 38, the resistance borne by the first base 38 during puncture of the needle 3F into the body tissue can be reduced. Furthermore, the first base edge 38f is formed in the first base 38 by reducing the apex angle formed by the seventh cutting edge 43 and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e.

[0265] The eighth cutting edge 44 is a cutting edge formed on the inner circumferential surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F and the inner circumferential surface 32i of the second needle tip 32E. For example... Figure 29 As shown, the eighth cutting edge 44 has a second inner intersection point 34e, which is the intersection point with the second inner intersection line (second inner edge) 34c (refer to...). Figure 31 ) and the fourth inner intersection point 36e, which is the intersection point with the fourth inner intersection line (fourth inner edge) 36c (refer to Figure 32 ).like Figure 27 and Figure 31 As shown, the second inner intersection line 34c is the intersection line formed by the second cutting edge 34 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F. For example... Figure 27 and Figure 32 As shown, the fourth inner intersection line 36c is the intersection line formed by the inner circumferential surface 32i of the fourth cutting edge 36 and the second needle tip 32F. The eighth cutting edge 44 intersects the second inner intersection line 34c at the second inner intersection point 34e, and the eighth cutting edge 44 intersects the fourth inner intersection line 36c at the fourth inner intersection point 36e.

[0266] like Figures 33-35 As shown, the line of intersection between the eighth cutting edge 44 and the second cutting edge 34 is the second intermediate edge 34f. The line of intersection between the eighth cutting edge 44 and the fourth cutting edge 36 is the fourth intermediate edge 36f. The second intermediate edge 34f and the fourth intermediate edge 36f are connected at the second base end 39.

[0267] like Figure 29 and Figure 34 As shown, the angle 34k between the eighth cutting surface 44 and the second cutting surface 34 at the second intermediate edge 34f decreases as it moves from the top of the needle tube 3F toward the base.

[0268] like Figure 29 and Figure 34 As shown, the angle 36k between the eighth cutting surface 44 and the fourth cutting surface 36 at the fourth intermediate edge 36f decreases as it moves from the top of the needle tube 3F toward the base.

[0269] like Figure 29 As shown, in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction A, the curvature of the curve formed by the second intermediate edge 34f and the fourth intermediate edge 36f is greater than the curvature of the inner circumferential surface 30i of the tubular portion 30.

[0270] like Figures 29-32 As shown, in the first base end region Z31, the thickness T2 between the eighth cutting edge 44 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31F decreases as it moves from the second inner intersection point 34e toward the second base end 39. Similarly, in the first base end region Z31, the thickness T2 decreases as it moves from the fourth inner intersection point 36e toward the second base end 39.

[0271] like Figures 29-32 As shown, in the second base end region Z32, the thickness T2 between the eighth cutting edge 44 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31F increases as it moves from the second base end 39 toward the base end of the needle tube 3F. Similarly, the thickness T2 between the eighth cutting edge 44 and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32F increases as it moves from the second base end 39 toward the base end of the needle tube 3F. That is, the thickness T1 between the eighth cutting edge 44 and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e decreases as it moves from the base end of the eighth cutting edge toward the second base end 39.

[0272] In a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the second inner intersection point 34e and the fourth inner intersection point 36e are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3F. For example... Figure 31 and Figure 32 As shown, the second inner intersection point 34e and the fourth inner intersection point 36e are located at the top of the eighth cutting surface 44.

[0273] The intersection line formed by the eighth cutting edge 44 and the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31F is defined as the eighth intersection line 440. For example... Figure 27 As shown, the gap between the first part 441 of the eighth intersection line 440, which is connected to the inner circumferential surface 31i, and the third part 442 of the eighth intersection line 440, which is connected to the inner circumferential surface 32i, gradually narrows as it moves from the top of the eighth cutting edge 44 toward the base end.

[0274] like Figure 32 As shown, a second base edge 39f is formed in the second base region Z32, with the second base 39 as its apex. The second base edge 39f is a sharp edge formed by the eighth cutting surface 44 and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e. By thinning the thickness T2 at the second base 39, the resistance encountered by the second base 39 during puncture of the needle 3F into the body tissue can be reduced. Furthermore, the second base edge 39f is formed in the second base 39 by reducing the apex angle formed by the eighth cutting surface 44 and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e.

[0275] The seventh cutting edge 43 and the eighth cutting edge 44 are formed, for example, by cutting the inner circumferential surface 30i of the tubular portion 30 of the needle tube 3F. Preferably, as... Figure 29 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3F (tubular portion 30), the first inner intersection point 33e and the second inner intersection point 34e are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, it is also preferable that, in this main view, the third inner intersection point 35e and the fourth inner intersection point 36e are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a.

[0276] The biopsy system 150F, equipped with the puncture needle 1F of this embodiment, not only the first outer edge 33b, the second outer edge 34b, the third outer edge 35b, and the fourth outer edge 36b, but also the first basal edge 38f and the second basal edge 39f, are inserted into the body tissue, thereby facilitating the extraction of body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis).

[0277] The biopsy system 150F equipped with the puncture needle 1F of this embodiment has high punctureability for puncturing body tissue and facilitates the retrieval of excised body tissue into the interior of the puncture needle 1F. The needle tube 3F, due to its thinner and sharper first base 38 and second base 39 compared to the needle tube 3 of the first embodiment, also exhibits higher punctureability in addition to its extractability. Similar to the first embodiment, the normal vector 33n of the first cutting edge 33 and the normal vector 34n of the second cutting edge 34 in the tip region Z1 are directed towards the third cutting edge 35 and the fourth cutting edge 36 in the tip region Z1, respectively, compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Furthermore, in this main view, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting edge 35 and the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting edge 36 in the tip region Z1 are directed towards the first cutting edge 33 and the second cutting edge 34 in the tip region Z1, compared to the direction orthogonal to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. Therefore, the puncture needle 1F enables the target tissue T to be properly moved into the interior of the needle tube 3.

[0278] Figure 36 It is aimed at Figure 29 The diagram shown illustrates the normals of the primary first cutting edge 33 and other cutting edges, indicated by arrows in the section perpendicular to axis direction A. In needle tube 3F, as the needle moves from its tip towards its base, the normals of the cutting edges align closer to the central axis O compared to the circumferential direction C of the tubular portion 30. As a result, needle tube 3F exhibits higher extraction efficiency compared to needle tube 3 of the first embodiment.

[0279] The fourth embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included. Furthermore, the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0280] (Fifth Implementation)

[0281] Reference Figures 37-48 This section describes a biopsy system 150G incorporating the endoscopic puncture needle 1G of the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for structures common to those already described, and repeated descriptions are omitted. The endoscopic puncture needle 1G differs in the shape of its cutting edge from the endoscopic puncture needle 1 of the first embodiment.

[0282] [Biopsy System 150G]

[0283] The biopsy system 150G is a medical device used to extract tissue from the body during a biopsy. The biopsy system 150G includes an ultrasonic endoscope 100 and an endoscopic puncture needle 1G (hereinafter referred to as "puncture needle 1G"). The puncture needle 1G includes an insert 2G, an operating part 8, and a core needle 27.

[0284] [Insertion 2G]

[0285] The insert 2G is an elongated component that can pass through the channel 107 of the ultrasonic endoscope 100. The insert 2G includes a needle 3G and a sheath 7.

[0286] Figure 37 It is a 3D image of a syringe 3G. Figure 38 This is the front view of the 3G syringe. Figure 39 This is a side view of the 3G syringe. Figure 40 It is the needle 3G from and Figure 39 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis O. Figure 41 This is a front view of the needle 3G viewed from the top of the axis A. It is a diagram showing the changes in the orientation of the cross-sections of each blade surface, arranged at equal intervals along the length axis. Figure 41 The single-dotted line shown represents the intersection of the cross sections perpendicular to the axial direction A, which are arranged at equal intervals along the axial direction A, with the first cutting edge 33G, the second cutting edge 34G, the third cutting edge 35G, and the fourth cutting edge 36G. Figure 42 This is a top view observed from a direction horizontal to the line V. Figure 43 From and Figure 42 A cross-sectional view taken from the same direction, along the central axis O.

[0287] Figure 44 yes Figure 39 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the syringe 3G along line D-D. Figure 45 yes Figure 39 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of syringe 3G along line E-E. Figure 46 yes Figure 39 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the syringe 3G along line F-F. Line F-F passes through the first base end 38G and the second base end 39G, which will be described later. Figure 47 yes Figure 39 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of syringe 3G along line G-G.

[0288] like Figure 37 As shown, the needle tube 3G includes a tubular portion 30 and a first needle tip 31G and a second needle tip 32G located at the top end of the tubular portion 30. The needle tube 3G can be moved in and out of the sheath 7 using the operating part 8. An opening 4G is formed at the top end of the needle tube 3G, which serves as an entrance for tissue inserted into the first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G to enter the interior of the needle tube 3G. The first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G of the needle tube 3G can protrude or retract relative to the opening at the top end of the sheath 7.

[0289] like Figures 37-43As shown, the first needle tip 31G has a first outer edge 33b and a second outer edge 34b formed along the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31G. The first outer edge 33b and the second outer edge 34b extend toward the sharp first needle tip 31a. In a front view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G (tubular portion 30), as Figure 38 As shown, the first outer edge 33b and the second outer edge 34b are symmetrical shapes with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. The first outer edge 33b and the second outer edge 34b are formed, for example, by cutting off a portion of the tubular portion 30.

[0290] The outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31G is a curved surface that is continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. In addition, the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31G is a curved surface that is continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature.

[0291] like Figures 37-43 As shown, the second needle tip 32G has a third outer edge 35b and a fourth outer edge 36b formed along the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31G. The third outer edge 35b and the fourth outer edge 36b extend toward the sharp second needle tip 32a. The first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis O extending along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3G. In a front view viewed from the direction along the axial direction A of the needle tube 3G, as... Figure 38 As shown, the third outer edge 35b and the fourth outer edge 36b are symmetrical shapes with respect to the straight line V passing through the first needle tip 31a and the second needle tip 32a. The third outer edge 35b and the fourth outer edge 36b are formed, for example, by cutting off a portion of the tubular portion 30.

[0292] The outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32G is a curved surface that is continuous with the outer peripheral surface 30e of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature. In addition, the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32G is a curved surface that is continuous with the inner peripheral surface 30i of the tubular portion 30, and has the same diameter and curvature.

[0293] like Figures 37-43 As shown, the base ends of the first outer edge 33b and the third outer edge 35b are connected at the first base end 38G. The base ends of the second outer edge 34b and the fourth outer edge 36b are connected at the second base end 39G. Figure 39 and Figure 40 As shown, in a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the first base end 38G and the second base end 39G are formed at a position symmetrical to the central axis O that extends relative to the axial direction A along the needle tube 3G.

[0294] In the first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G, as Figure 39 and Figure 40 As shown, a tip region Z1 containing a first needle tip 31a and a second needle tip 32a is defined; a base region Z3 containing a first base end 38G and a second base end 39G is defined; and an intermediate region Z2 is located between and connected to both the tip region Z1 and the base region Z3. Furthermore, the region within the base region Z3 that is closer to the tip side of the first base end 38G and the second base end 39G in the axial direction A is defined as the first base region Z31, and the region closer to the base end side of the first base end 38G and the second base end 39G is defined as the second base region Z32.

[0295] (First continuous cutting surface 401 and second continuous cutting surface 402)

[0296] like Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, the first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G have a first continuous cutting surface 401 and a second continuous cutting surface 402.

[0297] The first continuous cutting edge 401 is a continuous curved surface shape formed on the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31G and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32G, and the first continuous cutting edge 401 extends across the first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G. Specifically, as Figure 38 and Figure 40 As shown, the first continuous cutting edge 401 extends from the first needle tip 31a toward the base end of the needle tube 3G. Furthermore, the first continuous cutting edge 401 extends from the second needle tip 32a toward the base end of the needle tube 3G. The base end of the first continuous cutting edge 401 is located closer to the base end of the needle tube 3G than the first base end 38G at the edge of the opening 4G.

[0298] like Figure 37 As shown, the first continuous cutting edge 401 has a first continuous cutting edge outer edge 401b, which is the intersection line of the first continuous cutting edge 401 with the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31G and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32G. The base end of the first continuous cutting edge outer edge 401b coincides with the first base end 38G. Figure 40 and Figure 42 As shown, the thickness T3 between the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first continuous cutting edge 401 and the first needle tip 31G decreases as it approaches the first base end 38G from the base end of the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting edge (the base end of the first continuous cutting edge 401). Figure 40 and Figure 43As shown, the thickness T3 between the first continuous cutting edge 401 and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32G decreases as it approaches the first base end 38G from the base end of the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting edge (the base end of the first continuous cutting edge 401). Furthermore, the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting edge is the intersection line of the first continuous cutting edge 401 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i, located radially inward of the needle tube 3G compared to the first outer edge 33b and the third outer edge 35b.

[0299] like Figure 39 and Figure 40 As shown, in a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting surface extends from the base end of the first tip intersection line 31b extending from the first needle tip 31a toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G. Furthermore, the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting surface extends from the base end of the second tip intersection line 32b extending from the second needle tip 32a toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G. The base end of the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting surface is located closer to the base end side of the needle tube 3G than the first base end 38G. At the base end of the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting surface, the portion extending from the base end of the first tip intersection line 31b toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G connects with the portion extending from the base end of the second tip intersection line 32b toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G.

[0300] like Figure 40 As shown, the first continuous cutting edge 401 has a first cutting edge 33G that is connected to the first outer edge 33b and is located closer to the tip of the first base end 38G, a third cutting edge 35G that is connected to the third outer edge 35b and is located closer to the tip of the first base end 38G, and a seventh cutting edge 43G that is located closer to the base of the first base end 38G. The first cutting edge 33G and the seventh cutting edge 43G are continuously connected curved surfaces, preferably continuous without a height difference between them. The third cutting edge 35G and the seventh cutting edge 43G are continuous curved surfaces, preferably continuous without a height difference between them.

[0301] The second continuous cutting edge 402 is a continuous curved surface shape formed on the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31G and the inner peripheral surface 32i of the second needle tip 32G, and the second continuous cutting edge 402 extends across the first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G. Specifically, as Figure 38 and Figure 39 As shown, the second continuous cutting edge 402 extends from the first needle tip 31a toward the base end of the needle tube 3G. Furthermore, the second continuous cutting edge 402 extends from the second needle tip 32a toward the base end of the needle tube 3G. The base end of the second continuous cutting edge 402 is located closer to the base end of the needle tube 3G than the edge of the opening 4G.

[0302] like Figure 37As shown, the second continuous cutting edge 402 has a second continuous cutting edge outer edge 402b, which is the intersection line of the second continuous cutting edge 402 with the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31G and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32G. The base end of the second continuous cutting edge outer edge 402b coincides with the second base end 39G. Figure 39 and Figure 42 As shown, the thickness T3 between the second continuous cutting edge 402 and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31G thins as it approaches the second base end 39G from the base end of the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting edge (the base end of the second continuous cutting edge 402). Figure 39 and Figure 43 As shown, the thickness T3 between the second continuous cutting edge 402 and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32G decreases as it approaches the second base end 39G from the base end (base end of the second continuous cutting edge 402c) of the second continuous cutting edge 402. Furthermore, the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting edge is the intersection line of the second continuous cutting edge 402 and the inner peripheral surfaces 31i and 32i, located radially inward of the needle tube 3G compared to the second outer edge 34b and the fourth outer edge 36b.

[0303] like Figure 39 As shown, in a side view taken from a direction orthogonal to the central axis O and the straight line V, the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface extends from the base end of the first tip intersection line 31b extending from the first needle tip 31a toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G. Furthermore, the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface extends from the base end of the second tip intersection line 32b extending from the second needle tip 32a toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G. The base end of the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface is located closer to the base end side of the needle tube 3G than the second base end 39G. At the base end of the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface, the portion extending from the base end of the first tip intersection line 31b toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G connects with the portion extending from the base end of the second tip intersection line 32b toward the base end side of the needle tube 3G.

[0304] like Figure 39 As shown, the second continuous cutting edge 402 has a second cutting edge 34G that is connected to the second outer edge 34b and is located closer to the tip of the second base end 39G, a fourth cutting edge 36G that is connected to the fourth outer edge 36b and is located closer to the tip of the second base end 39G, and an eighth cutting edge 44G that is located closer to the base end of the second base end 39G. The second cutting edge 34G and the eighth cutting edge 44G are continuously connected curved surfaces, preferably continuous without a height difference between them. The fourth cutting edge 36G and the eighth cutting edge 44G are continuous curved surfaces, preferably continuous without a height difference between them.

[0305] In the main view observed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, as Figure 38 and Figure 41 As shown, the first continuous cutting surface 401 and the second continuous cutting surface 402 are symmetrical about the straight line V.

[0306] like Figure 38 As shown, the intersection line (first tip intersection line 31b) of the first cutting surface 33G and the second cutting surface 34G extends from the tip of the inner peripheral surface 31i of the first needle tip 31G to the first needle tip 31a. In the main view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the first tip intersection line 31b lies on the straight line V.

[0307] like Figure 38 As shown, the intersection line of the third cutting surface 35G and the fourth cutting surface 36G (the second tip intersection line 32b) extends from the tip of the inner circumferential surface 31i of the second needle tip 32G to the first needle tip 31a. In the main view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the second tip intersection line 32b lies on the straight line V.

[0308] like Figure 37 and Figure 41 As shown, the first needle tip 31G and the second needle tip 32G form an opening 4G surrounded by a first cutting edge 33G, a second cutting edge 34G, a third cutting edge 35G, and a fourth cutting edge 36G. The opening 4G communicates with the internal space of the tubular portion 30.

[0309] like Figure 41 As shown, the first cutting surface 33G, the second cutting surface 34G, the third cutting surface 35G and the fourth cutting surface 36G are curved surfaces, and the curvature of each surface is equal in the main view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G.

[0310] (First cutting edge 33G)

[0311] The first cutting edge 33G is formed as a curved surface. For example... Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the edge of the first cutting surface 33G extends in an arc shape that is concave towards the outer peripheral surface 31e.

[0312] like Figure 44 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the normal vector 33n of the first cutting surface 33G in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the third cutting surface 35G in the tip region Z1 at any point on the curved surface compared to the direction orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0313] like Figure 45 As shown, the normal vector 33n of the first cutting surface 33G in the middle region Z2 is also directed towards the third cutting surface 35G in the middle region Z2, which is orthogonal to the same straight line V as the top region Z1.

[0314] The first outer edge 33b is the intersection line (first outer intersection line 33b) of the first cutting surface 33G (first continuous cutting surface 401) and the outer peripheral surface 31e, and has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The first outer edge 33b is a part of the outer edge 401b of the first continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ1 between the first cutting surface 33G (first continuous cutting surface 401) at the first outer edge 33b (first continuous cutting surface outer edge 401b) and the outer peripheral surface 31e is an acute angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (first base end 38G at the edge of the opening 4G).

[0315] The intersection line (first inner intersection line 33c) of the first cutting surface 33G and the inner circumferential surface 31i is the first inner edge 33c having an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The first inner edge 33c is a part of the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ2 between the first cutting surface 33G (first continuous cutting surface 401) at the first inner edge 33c (inner edge of the first continuous cutting surface 401c) and the inner peripheral surface 31i is an obtuse angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (the first base end 38G of the edge of the opening 4G).

[0316] (Second cutting edge 34G)

[0317] The second cutting edge 34G is formed as a curved surface. For example... Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the edge of the second cutting surface 34G extends in an arc shape that is concave towards the outer peripheral surface 31e.

[0318] like Figure 44 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the normal vector 34n of the second cutting surface 34G in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the fourth cutting surface 36G in the tip region Z1 at any point on the curved surface compared to the direction orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0319] like Figure 45 As shown, the normal vector 34n of the second cutting edge 34G in the middle region Z2 is also directed towards the fourth cutting edge 36G in the middle region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0320] The second outer edge 34b is the intersection line (second outer intersection line 34b) where the second cutting surface 34G (second continuous cutting surface 402) intersects the outer peripheral surface 31e, and has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The second outer edge 34b is a part of the outer edge 402b of the second continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46As shown, in the main view taken from the direction along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ3 between the second cutting surface 34G (second continuous cutting surface 402) at the second outer edge 34b (second continuous cutting surface outer edge 402b) and the outer peripheral surface 31e is an acute angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (second base end 39G at the edge of the opening 4G).

[0321] The intersection line (second inner intersection line 34c) of the second cutting surface 34G and the inner circumferential surface 31i is the second inner edge 34c, which has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The second inner edge 34c is a part of the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ4 between the second cutting surface 34G (second continuous cutting surface 402) at the second inner edge 34c (inner edge of the second continuous cutting surface 402c) and the inner peripheral surface 31i is an obtuse angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (the second base end 39G at the edge of the opening 4G).

[0322] (Third cutting edge 35G)

[0323] The third cutting edge 35G is formed as a curved surface. For example... Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view viewed from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the edge of the third cutting surface 35G extends in an arc shape that is concave towards the outer peripheral surface 32e.

[0324] like Figure 44 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting surface 35G in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the first cutting surface 33G in the tip region Z1 at any point on the curved surface compared to the direction orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0325] like Figure 45 As shown, the normal vector 35n of the third cutting edge 35G in the middle region Z2 is also directed towards the first cutting edge 33G in the middle region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0326] The third outer edge 35b is the intersection line (third outer intersection line 35b) where the third cutting surface 35G (first continuous cutting surface 401) intersects with the outer peripheral surface 32e, and has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The third outer edge 35b is a part of the outer edge 401b of the first continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ5 between the third cutting surface 35G (first continuous cutting surface 401) at the third outer edge 35b (outer edge of the first continuous cutting surface 401b) and the outer peripheral surface 32e is an acute angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (the first base 38G at the edge of the opening 4G).

[0327] The intersection line (third inner intersection line 35c) of the third cutting surface 35G and the inner circumferential surface 32i is the third inner edge 35c, which has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The third inner edge 35c is a part of the inner edge 401c of the first continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ6 between the third cutting surface 35G (first continuous cutting surface 401) at the third inner edge 35c (inner edge of the first continuous cutting surface 401c) and the inner peripheral surface 32i is an obtuse angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (first base end 38G of the edge of the opening 4G).

[0328] (Fourth cutting edge 36G)

[0329] The fourth cutting edge, 36G, is formed as a curved surface. For example... Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the edge of the fourth cutting surface 36G extends in an arc shape that is concave towards the outer peripheral surface 32e.

[0330] like Figure 44 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting surface 36G in the tip region Z1 is directed towards the second cutting surface 34G in the tip region Z1 at any point on the curved surface compared to the direction orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0331] like Figure 45 As shown, the normal vector 36n of the fourth cutting edge 36G in the middle region Z2 is also directed towards the second cutting edge 34G in the middle region Z2, in the same direction as the top region Z1, which is orthogonal to the same straight line V.

[0332] The fourth outer edge 36b is the intersection line (fourth outer intersection line 36b) where the fourth cutting surface 36G (second continuous cutting surface 402) intersects with the outer peripheral surface 32e, and has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The fourth outer edge 36b is a part of the outer edge 402b of the second continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46 As shown, in the main view taken from the direction along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ7 between the fourth cutting edge 36G (second continuous cutting edge 402b) at the fourth outer edge 36b (second continuous cutting edge 402b) and the outer peripheral surface 32e is an acute angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (second base 39G at the edge of the opening 4G).

[0333] The intersection line (fourth inner intersection line 36c) of the fourth cutting surface 36G and the inner circumferential surface 32i is the fourth inner edge 36c, which has an edge in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 30. The fourth inner edge 36c is part of the inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface. Figures 44-46As shown, in the main view taken from the direction A along the axis of the needle tube 3G, the angle θ8 between the fourth cutting surface 36G (second continuous cutting surface 402) at the fourth inner edge 36c (inner edge 402c of the second continuous cutting surface) and the inner peripheral surface 32i is an obtuse angle from the tip region Z1 to the first base region Z31 (the second base end 39G of the edge of the opening 4G).

[0334] (Seventh cutting edge 43G)

[0335] The seventh cutting edge 43G is a cutting edge formed at a position closer to the base end than the first base end 38G. The seventh cutting edge 43G constitutes a part of the inner circumferential surface 31i of the first needle tip 31G and the inner circumferential surface 32i of the second needle tip 32G. The seventh cutting edge 43G is a curved surface shape that is continuously connected to the first cutting edge 33G and the third cutting edge 35G, and preferably is continuous without any height difference between the first cutting edge 33G and the seventh cutting edge 43G and between the third cutting edge 35G and the seventh cutting edge 43G.

[0336] like Figure 39 and Figure 47 As shown, in a section perpendicular to the axial direction A, the curvature of the curve formed by the seventh cutting surface 43G is greater than the curvature of the inner circumferential surface 30i of the tubular portion 30.

[0337] like Figure 42 As shown, the thickness T3 between the seventh cutting edge 43G (first continuous cutting edge 401) and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E thins from the base end of the seventh cutting edge 43G (the base end of the first continuous cutting edge 401) toward the first base end 38G. Furthermore, as... Figure 43 As shown, the thickness T3 between the seventh cutting edge 43G (first continuous cutting edge 401) and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E becomes thinner as it moves from the base end of the seventh cutting edge 43G (the base end of the first continuous cutting edge 401) toward the first base end 38G.

[0338] like Figure 42 and Figure 43 As shown, a first base edge 38g is formed in the second base region Z32, with the first base 38G as its apex. The first base edge 38g is a sharp edge formed by the seventh cutting surface 43G and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e. By thinning the thickness T3 at the first base 38G, the resistance encountered by the first base 38G during puncture of the needle 3G into body tissue can be reduced. Furthermore, the first base edge 38g is formed in the first base 38G by reducing the apex angle formed by the seventh cutting surface 43G and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e.

[0339] (Eighth cutting edge 44G)

[0340] The eighth cutting edge 44G is a cutting edge formed at a position closer to the base end than the second base end 39G. The eighth cutting edge 44G constitutes a part of the inner circumferential surface 31i of the first needle tip 31G and the inner circumferential surface 32i of the second needle tip 32G. The eighth cutting edge 44G is a curved surface shape that is continuously connected to the second cutting edge 34G and the fourth cutting edge 36G, and preferably is continuous without any height difference between the second cutting edge 34G and the eighth cutting edge 44G and between the fourth cutting edge 36G and the eighth cutting edge 44G.

[0341] like Figure 39 and Figure 47 As shown, in a section perpendicular to the axial direction A, the curvature of the curve formed by the eighth cutting surface 44G is greater than the curvature of the inner circumferential surface 30i of the tubular portion 30.

[0342] like Figure 42 As shown, the thickness T3 between the eighth cutting surface 44G (the second continuous cutting surface 402) and the outer peripheral surface 31e of the first needle tip 31E thins as it moves from the base end of the eighth cutting surface 44G (the base end of the second continuous cutting surface 402) toward the second base end 39G. Furthermore, as... Figure 43 As shown, the thickness T3 between the eighth cutting edge 44G (second continuous cutting edge 402) and the outer peripheral surface 32e of the second needle tip 32E becomes thinner as it moves from the base end of the eighth cutting edge 44G (the base end of the second continuous cutting edge 402) toward the second base end 39G.

[0343] like Figure 42 and Figure 43 As shown, a second base edge 39g is formed in the second base region Z32, with the second base 39G as its apex. The second base edge 39g is a sharp edge formed by the eighth cutting surface 44G and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e. By thinning the thickness T3 at the second base 39G, the resistance encountered by the second base 39G during puncture of the needle 3G into the body tissue can be reduced. Furthermore, the second base edge 39g is formed in the second base 39G by reducing the apex angle formed by the eighth cutting surface 44G and the outer peripheral surfaces 31e and 32e.

[0344] The biopsy system 150G, equipped with the puncture needle 1G of this embodiment, not only the first outer edge 33b, the second outer edge 34b, the third outer edge 35b, and the fourth outer edge 36b, but also the first basal edge 38g and the second basal edge 39g, are inserted into the body tissue, thereby facilitating the extraction of body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis).

[0345] The biopsy system 150G, equipped with the puncture needle 1G of this embodiment, has high punctureability for puncturing body tissue (the puncture needle 1G is easy to insert into body tissue), and it is easy to retrieve the excised body tissue (the specimen required for diagnosis) back into the puncture needle 1G. The needle tube 3G has higher punctureability and extraction capability because its first base end 38G and second base end 39G are thinner and sharper than those of the needle tube 3 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the needle tube 3G, the first outer edge 33b, second outer edge 34b, third outer edge 35b, and fourth outer edge 36b form acute angles in the tip region Z1, the middle region Z2, and the first base end region Z31, further enhancing punctureability.

[0346] Figure 48 It is aimed at Figure 41 The diagram shown illustrates the normals of the first cutting edge 33G and other cutting edges in a section perpendicular to the axial direction A. As the needle 3G moves from the tip towards the base, the normals of the cutting edges are directed closer to the central axis O compared to the circumferential direction C of the tubular portion 30. As a result, the needle 3G exhibits higher extraction efficiency compared to the needle 3 of the first embodiment.

[0347] The fifth embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included. Furthermore, the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0348] Industrial availability

[0349] This invention can be applied to medical devices with puncture needles.

[0350] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0351] 100. Ultrasonic endoscope; 1, 1B, 1E, 1F, 1G. Puncture needle (endoscopic puncture needle); 2, 2B, 2E, 2F, 2G. Insertion body; 3, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G. Needle tube; 30. Tubular part; 31, 31B. First needle tip; 31a. First needle tip; 32, 32B. Second needle tip; 32a. Second needle tip; 33, 33B. First cutting edge; 33b, 33Bb. First outer edge; 33c, 33Bc. First inner edge; 33n, 33Bn. Normal vector; 34, 34B. Second cutting edge; 34b, 34Bb. Second outer edge; 34c, 34 Bc, Second inner edge; 34n, 34Bn, Normal vector; 35, 35B, Third cutting edge; 35b, 35Bb, Third outer edge; 35c, 35Bc, Third inner edge; 35n, 35Bn, Normal vector; 36, 36B, Fourth cutting edge; 36b, 36Bb, Fourth outer edge; 36c, 36Bc, Fourth inner edge; 36n, 36Bn, Normal vector; 38, 38B, First base end; 39, 39B, Second base end; 41, Fifth cutting edge; 42, Sixth cutting edge; 43, 43G, Seventh cutting edge; 44, 44G, Eighth cutting edge; 4, 4B, 4G, Opening; 7, Sheath; 8, Operating part.

Claims

1. An endoscopic puncture needle, wherein, The endoscopic puncture needle includes: A tubular portion; A first needle tip is provided at the top end of the tubular portion, and the top end of the first needle tip has a first needle tip; and The second needle tip is located at the top end of the tubular portion, and a second needle tip is present at the top end of the second needle tip. The first needle tip has a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge. The second needle tip has a third cutting edge and a fourth cutting edge. The first cutting edge, the second cutting edge, the third cutting edge, and the fourth cutting edge form the edges of an opening that communicates with the internal space of the tubular portion. In a frontal view taken along the axial direction of the tubular portion, the normal vectors of the first and third cutting edges, compared to directions orthogonal to the straight lines passing through the first and second needle tips, are oriented in a direction that moves from one cutting edge to the other. In the main view, the normal vectors of the second and fourth cutting edges are oriented relative to each other, compared to directions orthogonal to the straight lines passing through the first and second needle tips, towards a direction from one cutting edge towards the other. In at least one region of the first needle tip and the second needle tip, the normal vectors of the first cutting edge, the second cutting edge, the third cutting edge, and the fourth cutting edge are directed away from the central axis extending along the axial direction of the tubular portion compared to the circumferential direction of the tubular portion.

2. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 1, wherein, The first needle tip and the second needle tip also include: The tip region includes the first needle tip and the second needle tip; The base region includes the base end of the first needle tip and the base end of the second needle tip; and The middle region is located between the top region and the base region.

3. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, In the main view, The normal vectors of the first and third cutting edges in the intermediate region are directed relative to each other, compared to directions orthogonal to the straight lines passing through the first and second needle tips, towards one cutting edge from the other towards the other. The normal vectors of the second and fourth cutting surfaces in the intermediate region are directed relative to each other in a direction from one cutting surface toward the other, compared to the directions orthogonal to the straight lines passing through the first and second needle tips.

4. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, The normal vectors of the first, second, third, and fourth cutting surfaces in the intermediate region are compared with the circumferential direction of the tubular portion and are directed away from the central axis extending along the axial direction of the tubular portion.

5. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, The base region has: The first base end where the first cutting edge connects to the third cutting edge; and The second base end, where the second cutting edge is connected to the fourth cutting edge, The normal vectors of the first and third cutting edges, near the first base end, are directed away from the central axis extending along the axial direction of the tubular portion compared to the circumferential direction of the tubular portion. The normal vectors of the second cutting edge and the fourth cutting edge are compared with the circumferential direction of the tubular portion near the second base end and are directed away from the central axis extending along the axial direction of the tubular portion.

6. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, The endoscopic puncture needle has a first outer edge formed by the outer peripheral surface of the first cutting edge and the first needle tip, wherein the angle between the first cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the first needle tip is an obtuse angle in the intermediate region. The endoscopic puncture needle has a second outer edge formed by the second cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the first needle tip, wherein the angle between the second cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the first needle tip is an obtuse angle in the intermediate region. The endoscopic puncture needle has a third outer edge formed by the third cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the second needle tip, and the angle between the third cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the second needle tip is an obtuse angle in the intermediate region. The endoscopic puncture needle has a fourth outer edge formed by the fourth cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the second needle tip, and the angle between the fourth cutting edge and the outer peripheral surface of the second needle tip is an obtuse angle in the middle region.

7. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, The endoscopic puncture needle has a first inner edge formed by the first cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the first needle tip, wherein the angle between the first cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the first needle tip is an acute angle in the intermediate region. The endoscopic puncture needle has a second inner edge formed by the second cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the first needle tip, wherein the angle between the second cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the first needle tip is an acute angle in the intermediate region. The endoscopic puncture needle has a third inner edge formed by the third cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the second needle tip, and the angle between the third cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the second needle tip is an acute angle in the intermediate region. The endoscopic puncture needle has a fourth inner edge formed by the fourth cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the second needle tip, and the angle between the fourth cutting edge and the inner circumferential surface of the second needle tip is an acute angle in the intermediate region.

8. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, The first needle tip and the second needle tip have a back-cut surface on the outer peripheral surface of the tip region.

9. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 2, wherein, The first needle tip and the second needle tip have a conical cut surface centered on the inner circumferential surface on the outer peripheral surface of the tip region.

10. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 1, wherein, In the main view, the first needle tip and the second needle tip are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the tubular portion.

11. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 1, wherein, In the main view, the first cutting edge and the second cutting edge are symmetrical shapes with respect to a straight line passing through the first needle tip and the second needle tip.

12. The endoscopic puncture needle according to claim 1, wherein, In the main view, the third and fourth cutting surfaces are symmetrical shapes with respect to the straight line passing through the first and second needle tips.

Images