Component recognition system

Abstract

There is provided an ingredient identification system comprising: a probe configured to extend through a working channel of a viewing mirror and to deliver energy to tissue of a patient to ablate tissue at a distal end of the probe; a light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; an optical sensor system configured to receive the responsive illumination from the at least a portion of the tissue and analyze spectral information of the responsive illumination from the at least a portion of the tissue to provide composition information about the at least a portion of the tissue; a discharge path extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, the discharge path configured to discharge at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe; a collection chamber for collecting at least a portion of the tissue; and a controller circuit configured to establish or adjust at least one of the treatment parameters of the composition identification system in real time based on the composition information of the at least a portion of the tissue to provide closed-loop control of the treatment.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application filed on August 27, 2021, with international application number PCT / US2021 / 047942, entitled "Component Analysis Technique for Ultrasonic Ablation", and application number 202180052771.3 which entered the Chinese national phase.

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 071,208, filed on August 27, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This document relates to ablation techniques for breaking down or removing biological tissue, and more particularly, to techniques for analyzing the composition of biological tissue during the ablation process. Background Technology

[0005] Medical endoscopes, such as endoscopes and laparoscopes, were first developed in the early 19th century and have been used to examine the interior of the body. A medical endoscope may include a probe with a distal and a proximal end; the distal end has tools and enables the capture of optical or electronic images, while the proximal end has controls for manipulating the tools and devices for viewing the images. An axis can transmit signals and can provide a link between the proximal and distal ends of the endoscope. Some medical endoscopes allow the user to pass tools or treatments along the channel of the axis, for example, to remove tissue or retrieve objects.

[0006] Over the past few decades, there has been some progress in the field of endoscopy, particularly in the fragmentation of physiological stones in the bile ducts, urinary tract, kidneys, and gallbladder. Physiological stones (sometimes called gallstones) in these areas can obstruct ducts and cause significant pain for patients. Treatment may involve removing or breaking down the stones. Different techniques have been developed for fragmenting stones, including ultrasonic lithotripsy, pneumatic lithotripsy, electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL), and stone fragmentation using green light, YAG, or holmium lasers. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A technique is provided for estimating the composition of a biological sample during an ablation procedure. In an example, the composition detector system may include a probe, an illumination source, and a spectrometer. In the example, the probe may extend through a working channel of an observation mirror and may deliver mechanical, acoustic, or ultrasonic energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue distal to the probe. The illumination source may illuminate a portion of the tissue distal to the probe, or as that portion is drained and collected for processing. The illumination may generate a response illumination that can be received by the spectrometer. The spectrometer may analyze the response illumination and provide an estimate of the composition of that portion of the tissue.

[0008] A component identification system is provided, comprising: a probe configured to extend through a working channel of an observation mirror and deliver energy to a patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at a distal end of the probe; a light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; an optical sensor system configured to receive responsive illumination from at least a portion of the tissue and analyze spectral information of the responsive illumination from at least a portion of the tissue to provide component information about at least a portion of the tissue; an exhaust path extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, the exhaust path being configured to exhaust at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe; a collection chamber for collecting at least a portion of the tissue; and controller circuitry configured to establish or adjust at least one of treatment parameters of the component identification system in real time based on the component information of at least a portion of the tissue to provide closed-loop control of the treatment, wherein the collection chamber is accessed by at least one optical path to allow illumination and obtain spectral information of the responsive illumination, and analysis is performed on at least a portion of the tissue while it is located in the collection chamber.

[0009] This section is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive description of the invention. A detailed description section is included to provide additional information regarding this patent application. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 An example of a portion of the ablation system is generally shown.

[0011] Figure 2 A portion of an example mechanical ablation system for in-situ component detection is generally shown.

[0012] Figure 3 An example mechanical ablation system for in-situ component detection is generally shown.

[0013] Figure 4 An example mechanical ablation system for in-situ component detection is generally shown.

[0014] Figures 5 to 8 It shows that it can be provided for use with Figures 1 to 4 Examples of mechanical ablation probes with one or more optical paths used in example ablation systems.

[0015] Figure 9 A portion of an example mechanical ablation system is shown, comprising a component detector configured to sense ablation material in a material management system and determine the component information of the sensed ablation material.

[0016] Figure 10A and Figure 10BThe illustration shows an example of how a feedback analyzer can determine the size and density of a biological sample.

[0017] Figure 11 A portion of an example mechanical ablation system is shown.

[0018] Figure 12 A portion of an example component detector is shown, configured to redirect ablated material in the discharge path of a discharge system for component analysis.

[0019] Figure 13 Examples of methods for ablating and analyzing biological samples during and within a system used for the ablation process are generally shown. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Several devices have been developed that use mechanical energy to break stones into smaller fragments for easier removal from a patient's urinary system. In certain examples, ultrasonic energy or sonic energy can be transmitted along a rigid axis and delivered to the stone by contact. Many procedures use such devices in systems that also include a medical endoscope, allowing the axis to access restricted areas within the patient's body. Such systems may also include a material management system to flush the area of ​​concern around the stone and remove fragments of the stone as it is ablated. Users of ablation devices have recognized that understanding the composition of the stone can help provide more efficient treatment. However, conventional techniques require the removal of a portion or one of the stones from the patient's body and analysis outside the ablation system. Such techniques can be time-consuming, and there can be a significant delay between the time it takes to remove the sample from the system and the time it takes to complete the compositional analysis. Without the benefit of compositional information, such delays are often traded off for completing the procedure in a more timely but less efficient manner. The inventors have recognized techniques for analyzing and providing compositional information about the composition of stones within the ablation system and during the ablation process. These new techniques may include systems with in-situ or near-in-situ analysis capabilities. This technology allows operators of ablation systems to adjust the ablation treatment to match the composition of the stone as it breaks up.

[0021] Figure 1An example of a portion of an ablation system 100 is generally shown. The system may include an ablation controller 102 and an ablation instrument 103. In some examples, the working lumen or access port of the observation instrument 107 may allow at least a portion of the ablation probe 104 of the ablation instrument 103 to be inserted into an internal structure or region of the patient. In some examples, the observation instrument may include an endoscope, laparoscope, or other medical endoscope. Such an endoscope may include one or more optical paths, optical sensors, and additional working lumens. The optical paths may be used to transmit light to the distal end of the observation instrument, and optical sensors, such as camera devices, may be used to transmit image-type signals to an imaging system coupled to the proximal end of the observation instrument.

[0022] The ablation system 100 may include a mechanical ablation controller 109 and a materials management system 140. The mechanical ablation controller may include a mechanical energy source, associated controls, and accessories for providing mechanical energy to the ablation instrument 103. The mechanical energy source may deliver acoustic energy at one or more acoustic frequencies and one or more acoustic amplitudes. The acoustic energy may be at both acoustic and ultrasonic frequencies. In some examples, the mechanical energy source may include mechanical connections configured to generate acoustic energy at one or more frequencies and one or more piezoelectric transducers.

[0023] The material management system 130 may cooperate with the ablation instrument 103 to flush the distal end of the ablation instrument 103, aspirate or remove material from the distal end of the ablation instrument 103, or both. In some examples, the material management system 130 may be part of an endoscopy system. In some examples, the material management system 130 may include a composition detector 145, which may optionally be configured to sample and analyze stone fragments captured by the material management system.

[0024] The ablation instrument 103 may include, for example, a handle 111 that may be located at the proximal end of the ablation probe 104. In some examples, a second handle may be located at a distal end when the ablation process is completed automatically. The handle 111 may include one or more electrical, mechanical, optical, or other interfaces for connection to a mechanical ablation controller 109 or a materials management system 140. The handle 111 may include one or more intermediate accessories, such as one or more triggers, buttons, etc., for actuating mechanical energy supplied to the ablation probe 104. The ablation probe 104 may include a tube 113 for transmitting mechanical energy from the handle 111 to an electromechanical or other transducer at the distal end of the tube 113. Such an ablation probe may be referred to as an acoustic transmission probe. The ablation probe 104 may also include an optical path 114 for transmitting optical signals from the distal end of the tube 113 to a component detector 145, which may optionally be configured to sample and analyze the stone at the distal end of the ablation probe 104. In some examples, the optical fiber of optical path 114 may be mounted to or integrated with tube 113. The distal end of ablation probe 104 may be inserted toward the target site for breaking up or applying mechanical energy to stones or biological samples located near the distal end of tube 113. In some examples, the internal channel of tube 113 may provide a pathway that allows flushing of the target area at or near the distal end of tube 113, or aspiration or removal of debris or other target tissue from the patient's body. In some examples, a gap formed within working channel 105 but outside tube 113 may be used for flushing of the target area at or near the distal end of tube 113, or aspiration or removal of debris or other target tissue from the patient's body. In some examples, the gap formed within working channel 105 but outside tube 113 may be used for complementary material management functions compared to the internal channel of tube 113. For example, in some examples, when the internal channel of tube 113 is used for suction, the gap between the working channel 105 and the outside of tube 113 can be used for flushing, and when the internal channel of tube 113 is used for flushing, the gap between the working channel 105 and the outside of tube 113 can be used for suction.

[0025] Figure 2 A portion of an example mechanical ablation system 200 for in-situ component detection is generally shown. Figure 1 compared to, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 This shows that it is specifically at the ends of ablation probes 204 and 304, rather than as shown. Figures 9 to 12The system shown is for sensing and detecting the composition of target tissue when it is drained for collection. The mechanical ablation system 200 may include an observation instrument 207, such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 206 separate from the observation instrument 207, a mechanical ablation controller 209, an ablation probe 204, a spectrometer 208, and an optional spectrometer 210. The observation instrument 207 may or may not provide a second light source. The observation instrument 207 may provide a working channel 205 for inserting the ablation probe 204 into the target site. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 209 may provide signaling and actuation for mechanically ablating a biological sample 217 located at the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204. It should be understood that a transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy may be located at the ablation probe 204 or between the ablation probe 204 and the actual control circuitry of the mechanical ablation controller 209. Light from the first light source 206 can be transmitted to the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204 via one or more optical paths 211. The light from the first light source 206 can illuminate an area surrounding the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204 (e.g., including a biological sample 217 such as a stone). The light from the first light source 206 can produce responsive illumination captured by the optical sensor 212 of the observation instrument 207. In some examples, the optical sensor 212 can be a camera device. The signal from the optical sensor 212 can be received at a spectrometer 208, and the spectrometer 208 can provide spectral information about the biological sample 217 at the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204. In some examples, the spectral information can be displayed to a user, who can make basic adjustments to the ablation treatment based on the spectral information. In some examples, an optional spectral analyzer 210 can receive spectral information from the spectrometer 208 and can provide the user with more specific component information. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 210 can determine more specific component information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 208, and can automatically modify the mechanical ablation treatment via the mechanical ablation controller 209, thereby providing closed-loop control of the ablation treatment.

[0026] Figure 3An example mechanical ablation system 300 for in-situ component detection is generally shown. The mechanical ablation system 300 may include an observation instrument 307 such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 306 separate from the observation instrument 307, a mechanical ablation controller 309, an ablation probe 304, a spectrometer 308, and an optional spectrometer 309. The observation instrument 307 may or may not provide a second light source. The observation instrument 307 may provide a working channel 305 for inserting the ablation probe 304 into the target site. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 309 may provide signaling and actuation for mechanically ablating a biological sample 217 located at the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 304. It should be understood that a transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy may be located at the ablation probe 304 or between the ablation probe 304 and the actual control circuitry of the mechanical ablation controller 309. Light from the first light source 306 can be transmitted to the distal end of the ablation probe 304 via one or more optical paths 311. The light from the first light source 306 can illuminate an area surrounding the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304 (e.g., including a biological sample 317 such as a stone). The light from the first light source 306 can produce responsive illumination that can be captured by the second optical path 312 of the ablation probe 304. Optionally, the responsive illumination can also be captured by an optical sensor 312 of the observation instrument 307. In some examples, the optical sensor 312 can be a camera device. In some examples, signals from the optical sensor 312 can be received to provide a visual image to the operator of the mechanical ablation system 300.

[0027] The response illumination captured by the second optical path 312 can be received at the spectrometer 308, and the spectrometer 308 can provide spectral information about the biological sample 317 at the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304. In some examples, the spectral information can be displayed to a user, who can then make basic adjustments to the ablation treatment based on the spectral information. In some examples, an optional spectrometer 310 can receive spectral information from the spectrometer 308 and can provide the user with more specific component information. In some examples, the optional spectrometer 310 can determine more specific component information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 308 and can automatically modify the mechanical ablation treatment via the mechanical ablation controller 309, thereby providing closed-loop control of the ablation treatment.

[0028] Figure 4An example mechanical ablation system 400 for in-situ component detection is generally shown. The mechanical ablation system 400 may include an observation instrument 407 such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 406, a mechanical ablation controller 409, an ablation probe 404, a spectrometer 408, and an optional spectrometer 410. The observation instrument 407 may provide a separate optical path 414 from the ablation probe 404. The observation instrument 407 may provide a working channel 405 for inserting the ablation probe 404 into a target site. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 409 may provide signaling and actuation for mechanically ablating a biological sample 417 located at the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. It should be understood that a transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy may be located at the ablation probe 404 or between the ablation probe 404 and the actual control circuitry of the mechanical ablation controller 409. Light from the light source 406 may be transmitted to the distal end 419 of the observation instrument 407 via the optical path 414. The light from light source 406 can illuminate the area surrounding the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404 (e.g., including a biological sample 417 such as a stone). The light from light source 406 can produce responsive illumination that can be captured by the optical path 411 of the ablation probe 404. Optionally, the responsive illumination can be captured by an optical sensor 412 of the observation instrument 407. In some examples, the optical sensor 412 can be a camera device. In some examples, signals from the optical sensor 412 can be received to provide a visual image to the operator of the ablation system 400.

[0029] The response illumination captured by the optical path 411 of the ablation probe can be received at a spectrometer 408, which can provide spectral information about the biological sample 417 at the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. In some examples, the spectral information can be displayed to a user, who can then make basic adjustments to the ablation treatment based on this information. In some examples, an optional spectrometer 410 can receive spectral information from the spectrometer 408 and provide the user with more specific component information. In some examples, the optional spectrometer 410 can determine more specific component information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 408 and can automatically modify the mechanical ablation treatment via the mechanical ablation controller 409, thereby providing closed-loop control of the ablation treatment.

[0030] In some examples, light source 406 may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In some examples, light source 406 may include multiple LED illumination sources, and each LED illumination source may provide light of a different color than the others. In some examples, the activation of the colors of light source 406 may be ordered to illuminate the area around the distal end 419 of ablation probe 404 using light that appears to be white. However, the ordering may be synchronized with spectrometer 408 to reduce noise in spectral measurements for each narrow wavelength range associated with each color. In some examples, spectral measurements and determination may be performed faster and with greater accuracy compared to light sources providing random light across the visible spectrum.

[0031] Figures 5 to 8 It shows that it can provide with Figures 1 to 4 Examples of ablation probes with one or more optical paths used in example ablation systems. In addition to delivering acoustic energy to the fragmented target tissue, the probe also provides optical paths to illuminate the target or collect responsive illumination for real-time compositional analysis of the target tissue. While Figures 5 to 8 The probe can be with Figures 9 to 12 These systems are used together, but the real-time compositional analysis feedback of these systems is based on response lighting collected from the discharge path of the material management system. As used herein, “real-time” or “near real-time” refers to systems in which input data (e.g., response lighting) is processed by the system rather than outside the system, and the processed information (e.g., compositional analysis output) is immediately available as feedback, wherein any delay between the reception of the input and the availability of the processed feedback is a delay generated by the system equipment.

[0032] Figure 5 Generally, it shows that it can be used with Figures 1 to 4 This is a distal view of an example portion of an ablation probe 504 used in one or more example systems. The ablation probe 504 may include a metal or other rigid tube 513 for delivering mechanical ablation energy from an electromechanical or other transducer to a biological sample distal to or near the distal end of the ablation probe 504. While flexible or semi-rigid tubes can be used to guide a tortuous path to the destination, rigid tubes (although less maneuverable) deliver mechanical ablation energy more efficiently and with less loss than semi-rigid or flexible tubes. Mechanical ablation of a biological sample (e.g., a kidney stone) may involve placing the distal end of the tube 513 against the target stone and mechanically vibrating or oscillating the tube 513. The tube 513 may include one or more holes 520 or passages extending lengthwise or longitudinally along the tube 513 (e.g., within the sidewall of the tube 513). Figure 5Two holes 520a, 520b within the sidewall of tube 513 are shown; however, tube 513 may include one or more additional optional holes 520. One or more optical fibers 521 may be positioned to extend within a corresponding one of the sidewall holes 520a, 520b. One or more optical fibers may be used to transmit light between the ends of tube 513 for illuminating the distal end of ablation probe 504 or for transmitting responsive illumination to the proximal end of probe 504.

[0033] In addition to providing a delivery mechanism for conveying mechanical energy to a target, tube 513 may provide a central or other longitudinal lumen for flushing or draining the area surrounding the distal end of probe 504. More than one set or bundle of optical fibers 520c may extend longitudinally via the wall of tube 513 (e.g., at different circumferential or peripheral locations or offset around the outer edge defined by the tube, for example, by at least 5 degrees or more). In some examples, tube 513 may be hollow to define an internal channel that can be used for flushing, draining, or aspirating material around the distal end of probe 504.

[0034] Figure 6 Generally, it shows that it can be used with Figures 1 to 4 This is a distal view of a portion of an example of an ablation probe 604 used together in an example system. The ablation probe 604 may include a metal or other rigid tube 613 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to a location located... Figure 6 The ablation probe 604 is positioned at or near a blockage or other target. One or more optical fibers 621 may be present within or extend along the tube 613, for example, to apply laser energy to the blockage. For example, the optical fibers 621 may be held against the outer surface of the tube 613 by a layer of material, a covering material, or an adhesive material 622 (e.g., heat-shrinkable or other shrink-wrap material). Gaps between the covering material and the outer surface of the tube 613 (e.g., gaps near the optical fibers 621) may be filled with surgical-grade silicone or other sealant 622. More than one set or bundle of optical fibers 621 may extend longitudinally along the exterior of the tube 613 (e.g., at different circumferential or peripheral locations or offset around the exterior of the tube, for example, by at least 5 degrees or more). In some examples, the tube 613 may be hollow to define an internal channel, for example, that can also be used to flush, drain, or aspirate material around the distal end of the probe 604.

[0035] Figure 7 Generally, it shows that it can be used with Figures 1 to 4This is a distal view of a portion of an example ablation probe 704 used in one or more example systems. The ablation probe 704 may include a metal or other rigid tube 713 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to an obstruction or other target. One or more optical fibers 721 may extend along the tube 713, for example, to apply laser energy to an obstruction or other target located at or near the distal end of the probe 704. For example, a bundle of optical fibers 721 or other arrangements of optical fibers 721 may be held against the outer surface of the tube 713, for example, using a covering or adhesive material (e.g., heat-shrinkable or other shrink-wrapping material). Near the distal end of the tube 713, the optical fibers 721 may follow a recess in the exterior of the tube 713 and transition via an inlet to an aperture 720 within the sidewall of the tube 713, for example, providing a pathway for the optical fibers 721 to the endpoint of the aperture 720 at the distal end of the tube 713. Gaps between the covering material and the outer surface of the tube 713 (e.g., near the optical fibers 721) may be filled with surgical-grade silicone or other sealants. More than one set or bundle of optical fibers 721 may extend along the exterior of tube 713 before transitioning via the inlet to the corresponding hole providing passage within the sidewall of tube 713. Such additional inlets may be angled 5 degrees or more away from the other inlets relative to the centerline of tube 704. In some examples, tube 713 may be hollow to define an internal channel, for example, that can also be used to flush or drain or aspirate material around the distal end of probe 704.

[0036] Figure 8 Generally, it shows that it can be used with Figures 1 to 4 This is a distal view of a portion of an example of an ablation probe 804 used together in an example system. The ablation probe 804 may include a metallic or rigid tube 813 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to an obstruction. One or more optical fibers 821 may extend along the tube 813, for example, for applying laser energy to the obstruction or other target. The tube 813 may include one or more recessed channels 823 on and along the outer surface of the tube 813, for example, to support one or more optical fibers 821. The optical fibers 821 may be held within the channels of the tube 813, for example, by a covering or adhesive material (e.g., heat-shrink or other shrink-wrapping material). Gaps between the covering material and the outer surface of the tube 813 (e.g., near the optical fibers 821) may be filled with surgical-grade silicone or other sealants. The multimodal probe 804 may include more than Figure 8 The fiber bundle shown has more or fewer fiber bundles 821.

[0037] Figure 9A portion of an example mechanical ablation system 900 is shown, including a component detector 945 configured to sense ablation material in a material management system 930 and determine the component information of the sensed ablation material. This portion of the example mechanical ablation system 900 may include a portion of the material management system 930, an ablation probe 904, a light source 906, an optical detector 912, a feedback analyzer 910, and a mechanical ablation controller 909.

[0038] The mechanical ablation controller 909 can be used to generate and modulate signals for generating mechanical ablation energy. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 909 may include a transducer for generating mechanical ablation energy. In some examples, the transducer may be located in the ablation probe 904 or in the handle 911 of the ablation probe. It should be understood that in some examples (e.g.) Figures 1 to 4 In the example shown, the ablation probe 904 may extend through the lumen of the observation instrument. The material management system 930 may include an outlet path 931 to remove flushed and ablated biological material from the distal end of the ablation probe 904. In some examples, the outlet path 931 may terminate at a collection system, allowing for the appropriate containment and processing of ablated material and other materials.

[0039] The discharge path 931 may include an optically transparent portion 932. A light source 906 may be positioned to allow light to pass through the optically transparent portion 932 of the discharge path 931. An optical sensor 912 may be placed on the side of the transparent portion 932 opposite to the light source 906 and may have a sensing surface focused toward the light source 906. As the ablated material 922 passes through the transparent portion 932, the optical sensor 906 may collect information about the composition of the ablated material 922. A feedback analyzer 910 may receive a signal from the optical sensor 906 and analyze the signal to obtain the detected compositional characteristics of the ablated material 922. Compositional characteristics may include, but are not limited to, size, density, chemical composition, shape, or combinations thereof. The detection of each compositional characteristic may depend on the complexity of the optical sensor 912 and the light source 906. Figure 10A and Figure 10B An example of how a feedback analyzer can determine size and density is shown. Figure 10A and Figure 10BThe diagram illustrates the intensity signal provided by the optical sensor when it detects two pieces of ablated material passing through the discharge path between the light source and the optical sensor. Each piece of material is detected by the decrease or drop in the intensity of the light received from the light source. The relative size 1090 of each piece can be detected by comparing the length of time over each drop. In some examples, the system may include flow information provided by an evaluation system or by a dedicated sensor. Flow information can help provide a measured size 1010 for each piece. In some examples, the optical sensor may include an array of light sensors, allowing images to be captured and analyzed to provide size information. Figure 10B The block shown does not have the same Figure 10A The drop shown is the same size as the drop. Differences in the depth of the drop can indicate... Figure 10A The ablation fragments detected in the middle were higher than those in the middle. Figure 10B The detected ablation fragments are denser. In some examples, a combination of the intensity level and size of the fragments can be used to estimate the absolute density or hardness of the current material being ablated. As discussed below, such an estimate can then be used to provide real-time feedback to the mechanical ablation controller. The parameters of the mechanical ablation controller can be adjusted based on the feedback to apply the current treatment more efficiently, or as efficiently as the mechanical ablation controller can apply the treatment. The adjustable parameters of the mechanical ablation controller include, but are not limited to: the shape of the drive signal (e.g., sine wave, square wave, sawtooth wave, etc.), frequency (e.g., fixed or continuous scan), amplitude (e.g., fixed or continuous scan), pulse width and pulse frequency, or combinations thereof.

[0040] Refer again Figure 9 In some examples, optical sensor 906 can provide a spectrometer or is actually a spectrometer. In some examples, optical sensor 906 is able to measure flow rate as the edge of stone fragment 922 moves through the field of view of optical sensor 906. In some examples, the analyzer can integrate the size of stone fragment 922 over a period of time to estimate the mass or volume of the ablated stone 917. In some examples, detection information from optical sensor 906, analysis information from feedback analyzer 910, or a combination of detection information from optical sensor 906 and analysis information from feedback analyzer 910 can be passed to artificial intelligence or machine learning applications (e.g., cloud-based applications) for further processing. In such applications, not only historical process information from local process locations can be combined with other process information from regional, national, or global process locations to further refine the in-process procedure for more efficient treatment.

[0041] Figure 11A portion of an example mechanical ablation system 1100 is shown. System 1100 illustrates the ablation of biological material 1117 (e.g., a stone) via mechanical ablation, and the removal of stone fragments 1122 via a discharge path 1131, which may include an ablation probe 1404 and a handle. This portion of system 1100 may include a composition detector 1145, configured to sense the ablated material or stone fragments 1122 in the discharge path 1131 of the material management system 1130 and determine the composition information of the stone fragments 1122. The system may also include an ablation instrument 1103 and an ablation controller 1109. The ablation instrument 1103 may include an ablation probe 1104 and a handle 1111, as described above. Figure 1 The examples described herein. It should be understood that in some examples (e.g.) Figures 1 to 4 In the example shown, the ablation probe 904 may extend through the lumen of the observation instrument. The drainage path 1131 may be part of a drainage system for flushing and draining ablated material (e.g., stone fragment 1122) from the patient. The drainage path 1131 may include a transparent portion 1132 to facilitate the analysis of the composition of the stone fragment 1122.

[0042] The component detector 1145 is generally positioned along the discharge path 1131 between the ablation instrument 1407 and a local endpoint of the discharge path 1131. Such a local endpoint may include a collection system or vacuum source for the discharge path 1131. The component detector 1145 may include a light source 1406 and an optical sensor system 1112. The optical sensor system 1112 can detect the stone fragment 1122 and analyze the optical response of the stone fragment 1122 to derive component information for presentation to the ablation system operator or to adjust the treatment of the ablation controller 1409. In some examples, the optical response may include light reflected from the stone fragment 1122 by the light source. In some examples, the optical response may be fluorescence generated by the stone fragment 1122 in response to light from the light source 1406. In some examples, the complexity of the optical sensor system 1112 may determine the component information provided by the component detector 1145. For example, a less complex optical sensor system 1112 may provide the size or shape of the stone fragment 1122. A more sophisticated optical sensor system 1112 can also provide color and surface texture details of the stone fragment 1122. As the complexity of the optical sensor system increases, additional compositional aspects of the stone fragment 1122 can be determined, enabling more sophisticated and timely feedback control of the ablation treatment. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1122 may include a spectrometer or spectral analyzer 1140, allowing for near real-time feedback on the composition of the stone fragment 1122 and its use to adjust the ablation treatment to help provide more efficient treatment. Such near real-time feedback may include an estimate of hardness, which can have a significant impact on modulating the ablation energy for efficient delivery.

[0043] In some examples, the optical sensor system 1112 can provide details about the ablated stone fragments 1122 to the electronic medical record system 1136. Such details can be used to ensure an accurate patient history, as well as to study and improve the composition estimates provided by the composition detector 1145.

[0044] Figure 12 A portion of an example component detector 1245 is shown, which is configured to redirect the ablated material 1222 from the discharge path 1231 of the discharge system and determine the component information of the ablated material 1222. While not limited thereto, in some examples, the illustrated component detector 1245 may be used as shown and described below, or may be such as Figure 11 or Figure 1This is part of a larger mechanical ablation system, or used in an ablation system employing another form of ablation, such as laser ablation. In some examples, the component detector 1245 may include a flow control actuator 1241, an optical sensor system 1212, a light source 1206, and an optional collection chamber 1250. In some examples, the flow control actuator 1241 may be used in conjunction with an upstream sensor and controller to regulate the flow rate of the discharge path 1231. In such examples, the actuator 1241 may slow down or stop the flow to allow the optical sensor system 1212 to collect image information of stone fragments 1222 (e.g., stone fragments sensed upstream by the upstream sensor). In such applications, the component detector 1245 may not include the collection chamber 1250.

[0045] In some examples, the component detector 1245 includes a collection chamber 1250, such that the flow actuator 1241 can capture stone fragments 1222 and move the captured fragments to the collection chamber 1250. In some examples, the collected fragments 1222 can be removed from the collection chamber 1200 for analysis outside the system. In some systems, once in the collection chamber 1250, the optical sensor system 1212 can collect an illumination response based on the collected fragments 1222 and generate component information. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 may include a spectrometer, or spectral information may be extracted from signals provided by the optical sensors of the optical sensor system 1212. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 may include an analyzer 1210 for receiving spectral information and generating an estimate of the chemical or material composition of the stone fragments 1222. In some examples, the analyzer may provide an estimate of the hardness of the stone fragments 1222. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 may provide control signals to an ablation controller to provide closed-loop control of the ablation treatment. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 can provide raw or analyzed data to a telemedicine system, a remote or cloud-based artificial intelligence system, a remote or cloud-based machine learning system, or a combination thereof.

[0046] Figure 13An example of method 1300 for ablating and analyzing a biological sample during and within a system used for the ablation process is generally shown. At 1301, a biological sample, such as a stone, can be processed mechanically or acoustically via an ablation probe of the ablation system. In some examples, the biological sample may be located within a patient, and the ablation probe may extend into the patient through the working channel of an observation endoscope. At 1303, at least a portion of the biological sample can be illuminated by an illumination source. At 1305, an optical response signal can be obtained at an optical sensor in response to the illumination of at least a portion of the sample. At 1307, spectral information of the optical response signal can be analyzed at the patient's site during the same medical procedure as the treatment to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the sample. In some examples, the illumination and analysis of the biological sample can be performed while the biological sample is ablated within the patient. In some examples, the illumination and analysis of the biological sample can be performed while the biological sample is being expelled from the patient, or immediately after the biological sample has been expelled from the patient but still within the discharge path of a materials management system. The materials management system can be used to flush the ablation area and to drain, collect, and process both the ablated and flushed materials. In some examples, estimates of the composition of the biological sample can be used to adjust the ablation treatment.

[0047] Examples and Explanations

[0048] In the first example, Example 1, a combined system for both analyzing and processing a biological sample at a patient's site during a medical procedure may include: an acoustic transmission probe configured to extend through the working channel of an observation instrument to acoustically process the biological sample within the patient's body at a distal end of the probe; an illumination optical path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample; a response optical path configured to obtain an optical response signal from at least a portion of the biological sample in response to illumination; and a spectrometer configured to analyze spectral information of the optical response signal at the patient's site during the same medical procedure as the processing to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the sample.

[0049] In Example 2, the subject of Example 1 includes an illumination path configured to deliver light toward the far end of the probe.

[0050] In Example 3, the subject matter of any of Examples 1 to 2 may optionally also include, wherein the illumination path extends through the probe of the working channel of the observation mirror instrument.

[0051] In Example 4, the subject of any one of Examples 1 to 3 may optionally also include an observation mirror instrument; and wherein the observation mirror instrument includes an illumination light path.

[0052] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 4 may optionally also include, wherein the observation instrument includes a camera device configured to detect an optical response signal for transmission to the spectrometer.

[0053] In Example 6, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 5 may optionally also include an exhaust path that extends from the distal end of the probe and includes a channel of the probe, the exhaust path being configured to exhaust at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe.

[0054] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 6 may optionally also include, wherein the discharge path is accessed by an illumination optical path and a response optical path to allow illumination, optical response, and analysis of at least a portion of the biological sample to be performed on at least a portion of the biological sample while at least a portion of the biological sample is located in the discharge path.

[0055] In Example 8, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 7 may optionally also include a container configured to receive at least a portion of a biological sample from an exhaust path, wherein the container is accessed by an illumination optical path and a response optical path to allow illumination, optical response, and analysis of at least a portion of the biological sample to be performed on at least a portion of the sample while the sample is in the container.

[0056] In Example 9, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 8 may optionally also include, wherein at least one or both of the illumination path or response optical path are coupled to at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion.

[0057] In Example 10, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 9 may optionally also include, wherein the spectrometer is configured to receive an optical response signal via a transparent portion.

[0058] In Example 11, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 10 may optionally also include controller circuitry configured to: establish or adjust at least one of the discharge parameters in response to information indicating that the components include at least a portion of the biological sample being analyzed.

[0059] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 11 may optionally also include controller circuitry configured to: establish acoustic processing parameters or adjust at least one of the acoustic processing parameters in response to information indicating that the components include at least a portion of the biological sample being analyzed.

[0060] Example 13 is a method for both analyzing a biological sample at a patient's site during a medical procedure and processing the biological sample at the same patient's site during the same medical procedure, the method comprising: acoustically processing the biological sample within the patient's body via an acoustic transmission probe extending into the patient's body through a working channel of an observation instrument; illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample; obtaining an optical response signal in response to the illumination; and analyzing spectral information of the optical response signal at the patient's site during the same medical procedure as the processing to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample.

[0061] In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 may optionally also include, wherein the illumination comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample via a first optical path extending along a probe through the working channel of the observation mirror instrument.

[0062] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 14 may optionally also include, wherein obtaining the optical response signal includes: transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a camera device of the observation mirror instrument.

[0063] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 15 may optionally also include, wherein obtaining the optical response signal includes: transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a second optical path extending along the working channel of the observation mirror instrument.

[0064] In Example 17, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 16 may optionally further include discharging at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe toward a local collection container via an discharge path including at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe; and wherein, while at least a portion of the sample is in the local collection container, illumination, optical response, and analysis are performed on at least a portion of the sample.

[0065] In Example 18, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 17 may optionally also include discharging at least a portion of the organism from the distal end of the probe via a discharge path comprising at least a portion of a longitudinal channel of the probe; and wherein illumination, obtaining an optical response, and analysis are performed as at least a portion of the biological sample is discharged along the discharge path.

[0066] In Example 19, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 18 may optionally also include, wherein at least one or both of the illumination or the acquisition of an optical response are performed via at least one optically transparent portion positioned along the discharge path.

[0067] In Example 20, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 19 may optionally also include, in response to information indicating that at least one of the components comprising at least a portion of the biological sample being analyzed is used to establish or adjust at least one of the discharge parameters.

[0068] In Example 21, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 20 may optionally also include establishing or adjusting at least one of the acoustic processing parameters in response to information indicating that the components include at least a portion of the biological sample being analyzed.

[0069] Example 22 is an ablation instrument for ablating tissue at the distal end of a probe, the ablation instrument comprising: a probe having a distal end configured to extend through a working channel of an observation instrument; and an exhaust path configured to deliver a portion of the ablated tissue, wherein a first portion of the exhaust path includes the probe; and a target recognition system configured to: optically sense a portion of the ablated tissue within the exhaust path, measure aspects of said portion, and provide a first signal representing the aspects.

[0070] In Example 23, the subject matter of Example 22 may optionally also include, wherein the discharge path includes an optically transparent portion located between the proximal end of the probe and the collection system.

[0071] In Example 24, the subject matter of any of Examples 22 to 23 may optionally also include, wherein the target recognition system includes an illumination source guided toward the optically transparent portion.

[0072] In Example 25, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 to 24 may optionally further include, wherein the target recognition system includes an optical sensor positioned relative to the transparent portion and opposite the illumination source; and wherein the optical sensor is configured to generate a first signal.

[0073] In Example 26, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 to 25 may optionally also include, wherein the target recognition system includes a spectrometer configured to receive responsive illumination from the optically transparent portion and generate a first signal.

[0074] In Example 27, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 through 26 may optionally also include a flow control configured to receive a first signal and, in response to the first signal, change the flow of a portion of the ablated tissue.

[0075] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 through 27 may optionally also include, wherein the flow control is configured to capture the portion as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0076] Example 29 is a method for ablating tissue, the method comprising: applying energy to the tissue via a distal end of an ablation probe; draining a portion of the ablated tissue via a drain path including a channel of the ablation probe; optically sensing the portion of the ablated tissue as the ablated tissue moves through the drain path; measuring aspects of the portion; and providing a first signal representing the aspects.

[0077] In Example 30, the subject of Example 29 may optionally also include receiving the first signal at a monitor and displaying aspects.

[0078] In Example 31, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 30 may optionally further include, wherein applying energy includes applying mechanical ablation energy to tissue; and wherein the method includes: receiving a first signal at a mechanical ablation energy source and adjusting the characteristics of the mechanical ablation energy based on the first signal.

[0079] In Example 32, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 31 may optionally also include, wherein optically sensing the portion includes: an optically transparent portion that guides illumination through an exhaust path.

[0080] In Example 33, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 32 may optionally also include, wherein optically sensing the portion includes: guiding illumination through the optically transparent portion of the exhaust path toward the optical sensor.

[0081] In Example 34, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 33 may optionally also include, wherein the measurement includes: measuring the optical intensity of the illumination at an optical sensor.

[0082] In Example 35, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 34 may optionally also include, wherein the first signal is based on the optical intensity of the illumination.

[0083] In Example 36, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 35 may optionally also include, wherein optical sensing includes: receiving responsive illumination from the transparent portion of the discharge path at a spectrometer.

[0084] In Example 37, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 36 may optionally also include, wherein the measurement includes: measuring spectral information of the response illumination.

[0085] In Example 38, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 37 may optionally also include, wherein the first signal is based on spectral information.

[0086] In Example 39, the subject matter of any of Examples 29 to 38 may optionally also include, in response to a first signal, adjusting the flow of ablated tissue through the discharge path.

[0087] In Example 40, the subject matter of any one of Examples 29 to 39 may optionally also include, wherein adjusting the flow includes: capturing the portion in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0088] Example 41 is a device for sensing ablation material, the device comprising: a discharge path configured to deliver flushing and ablation material from an ablation probe to a collection system; a light source configured to illuminate the flushing and ablation material within the discharge path; an optical sensor focused toward the discharge path; and a controller configured to receive a first signal from the optical sensor and provide measurement information about the ablation material based on the signal.

[0089] In Example 42, the subject matter of Example 41 may optionally also include a flow control actuator configured to redirect the flow of the ablation material within the discharge path.

[0090] In Example 43, the subject matter of any of Examples 41 to 42 may optionally also include a sample storage device coupled to the discharge path, the sample storage device being configured to receive a sample of ablation material in response to a flow control actuator redirecting the flow of ablation material.

[0091] In Example 44, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41 to 43 may optionally also include, wherein the optical sensor includes a spectrometer.

[0092] In Example 45, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41 to 44 may optionally also include, wherein the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing measurement information to the ultrasonic ablation energy source.

[0093] In Example 46, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41 to 45 may optionally also include, wherein the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing measurement information to the laser ablation energy source.

[0094] Example 47 is a component identification system comprising: a probe configured to extend through a working channel of an observation mirror and deliver mechanical energy to a patient’s tissue for ablation at a distal end of the probe; an illumination source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; and a spectrometer configured to receive responsive illumination from at least a portion of the tissue and provide component information about at least a portion of the tissue.

[0095] In Example 48, the subject matter of Example 47 may optionally also include a first optical medium configured to transmit light from an illumination source to the distal end of the probe.

[0096] In Example 49, the subject matter of any of Examples 47 to 48 may optionally also include, wherein the first optical medium extends through the working channel together with the probe.

[0097] In Example 50, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47 to 49 may optionally also include an observation instrument; and wherein the observation instrument includes a first optical medium.

[0098] In Example 51, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47 to 50 may optionally also include, wherein the observation instrument includes a camera device configured to receive the response illumination and transmit the response illumination to the spectrometer via a first signal.

[0099] In Example 52, the subject matter of any of Examples 47 to 51 may optionally also include a second optical medium configured to extend along the working channel with the probe, the second optical medium being configured to transmit an illumination response to the spectrometer.

[0100] In Example 53, the subject matter of any of Examples 47 to 52 may optionally also include a discharge path configured to discharge at least a portion of the tissue toward the collection system, wherein the discharge path includes a channel of the probe.

[0101] In Example 54, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47 to 53 may optionally also include, wherein the discharge path includes an optically transparent portion located between the probe and the collection system.

[0102] In Example 55, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47 to 54 may optionally also include, wherein the light source is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue at the transparent portion.

[0103] In Example 56, the subject matter of any one of Examples 47 to 55 may optionally also include, wherein the spectrometer is configured to receive responsive illumination at the transparent portion.

[0104] In Example 57, the subject matter of any of Examples 47 through 56 may optionally also include a flow control configured to alter the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer.

[0105] In Example 58, the subject matter of any of Examples 47 to 57 may optionally also include, wherein the flow control is configured to capture the portion as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0106] Example 59 is a method of operating a component identification system, the method comprising: mechanically ablating tissue via a probe extending through a working channel of an observation instrument; illuminating at least a portion of the tissue to provide responsive illumination; and generating a first signal based on the responsive illumination, the first signal including spectral analysis information about the components of at least a portion of the tissue.

[0107] In Example 60, the subject matter of Example 59 may optionally also include, wherein the illumination comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the tissue via a first optical medium extending through the working channel together with the probe.

[0108] In Example 61, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59 to 60 may optionally further include, wherein generating the first signal includes: relaying the illumination response to the spectrometer via the camera device of the observation instrument.

[0109] In Example 62, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59 to 61 may optionally also include, wherein generating the first signal includes, receiving responsive illumination at the spectrometer via a second optical medium extending through the working channel together with the probe.

[0110] In Example 63, the subject matter of any of Examples 59 to 62 may optionally also include discharging at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe toward the collection system via a discharge path, the discharge path including a channel of the probe.

[0111] In Example 64, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59 to 63 may optionally further include, wherein the illumination comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the tissue via an optically transparent portion of the discharge path, the optically transparent portion being located between the proximal ends of the collection system.

[0112] In Example 65, the subject matter of any one of Examples 59 to 64 may optionally also include, wherein generating the first signal based on the response illumination includes: receiving the illumination response at a spectrometer located adjacent to the transparent portion.

[0113] In Example 66, the subject matter of any of Examples 59 to 65 may optionally also include altering the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a second signal received from the sensor of the spectrometer.

[0114] In Example 67, the subject matter of any of Examples 59 to 66 may optionally also include capturing at least a portion of the tissue as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0115] In Example 68, a system for analyzing and processing biological samples may include: an acoustic transmission probe for acoustically processing the biological sample, the biological sample being located in a patient at a distal end of the probe; and an ejection system configured to eject multiple portions of the biological sample from a region surrounding the distal end of the probe, the multiple portions being broken up from the biological sample in response to the acoustic processing. The ejection system may include: an ejection path configured to move the multiple portions to a terminal collection system; and a sample chamber configured to deflect a first portion of the multiple portions from the ejection path to provide a sample of the biological sample.

[0116] In Example 69, the system of Example 68 may optionally also include a lighting source configured to illuminate the sample in the sample chamber.

[0117] In Example 70, the system of any one of Examples 68 to 69 may optionally include an optical sensor system configured to generate spectral information based on response illumination received from a sample in response to illumination provided by an illumination source.

[0118] In Example 71, the system of any one of Examples 68 to 70 is optionally a spectrometer configured to provide spectral information of a sample.

[0119] In Example 72, the system of any one or more of Examples 68 to 71 may optionally include a controller configured to receive spectral information and drive an acoustic transmission probe, the controller being further configured to adjust parameters for driving the acoustic transmission probe in response to the spectral information.

[0120] Example 73 is at least one machine-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry, cause the processing circuitry to perform operations to implement any one of Examples 1 to 72.

[0121] Example 74 is an apparatus that includes means for implementing any one of Examples 1 through 72.

[0122] Example 75 is a system for implementing any one of Examples 1 through 72.

[0123] Example 76 is a method for implementing any one of Examples 1 through 72.

[0124] This public disclosure also includes the following configurations:

[0125] 1. A system for analyzing and processing biological samples from a patient, the system comprising:

[0126] An acoustic transmission probe is configured to extend through the working channel of an observation instrument to acoustically process the biological sample at the distal end of the probe;

[0127] An illumination optical path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample;

[0128] A responsive optical path, configured to receive an optical response signal in response to illumination from at least a portion of the biological sample; and

[0129] A spectrometer configured to analyze the spectral information of the optical response signal to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the sample.

[0130] 2. The system according to Scheme 1, wherein the illumination optical path is configured to transmit light toward the far end of the probe.

[0131] 3. The system according to Scheme 2, wherein the illumination light path extends along the probe through the working channel of the observation mirror instrument.

[0132] 4. The system according to claim 2 further includes an exhaust path extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, the exhaust path being configured to exhaust at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe.

[0133] 5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the discharge path is accessed by the illumination optical path and the response optical path to allow the illumination, the acquisition of the optical response, and the analysis to be performed on at least a portion of the biological sample when at least a portion of the biological sample is located in the discharge path.

[0134] 6. The system according to claim 4 further includes a container configured to receive at least a portion of the biological sample from the discharge path, the container being accessed by the illumination optical path and the response optical path to allow the illumination, the acquisition of the optical response, and the analysis to be performed on at least a portion of the biological sample while at least a portion of the sample is located in the container.

[0135] 7. The system according to claim 4 further includes a controller circuit configured to: in response to information indicating an indication of at least one of the components including at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, establish or adjust at least one of the discharge parameters.

[0136] 8. The system according to Scheme 1 further includes the observation mirror instrument, the observation mirror instrument including the illumination optical path.

[0137] 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the observation instrument includes a camera device configured to detect the optical response signal to be transmitted to the spectrometer.

[0138] 10. The system according to claim 1, wherein at least one or both of the illumination path or the response optical path are coupled to at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion.

[0139] 11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the spectrometer is configured to receive the optical response signal via the transparent portion.

[0140] 12. The system according to claim 1 further includes a controller circuit configured to establish or adjust at least one of acoustic parameters in response to information indicating an indication of a component including at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample.

[0141] 13. An ablation device for ablating tissue, the ablation device comprising:

[0142] A probe having a distal end positioned adjacent to the tissue, the distal end configured to extend through the working channel of an observation instrument; and

[0143] An exhaust path, configured to deliver a portion of the ablated tissue, wherein a first portion of the exhaust path includes the probe; and

[0144] A target recognition system configured to: optically sense a portion of ablated tissue within the discharge path, measure aspects of the portion, and provide a first signal representing the aspects.

[0145] 14. The ablation device according to claim 13, wherein the discharge path includes an optically transparent portion located between the proximal end of the probe and the collection system.

[0146] 15. The ablation device according to Scheme 14, wherein:

[0147] The target recognition system includes an illumination source guided toward the optically transparent portion;

[0148] The target recognition system includes an optical sensor positioned relative to the transparent portion and the illumination source; and

[0149] The optical sensor is configured to generate the first signal.

[0150] 16. The ablation instrument according to claim 14, wherein the target recognition system includes a spectrometer configured to receive responsive illumination from the optically transparent portion and generate the first signal.

[0151] 17. The ablation device according to claim 13 further includes a flow control, the flow control being configured to:

[0152] Receive the first signal, and in response to the first signal, change the flow of the portion of the ablated tissue; and

[0153] The portion is captured as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0154] 18. A device for sensing ablation material, the device comprising:

[0155] The discharge path is configured to deliver flushing and ablation material from the ablation probe to the collection system;

[0156] A light source configured to illuminate the flushing and ablating material within the discharge path;

[0157] An optical sensor, which is focused toward the discharge path; and

[0158] A controller is configured to receive a first signal from the optical sensor and provide measurement information about the ablation material based on the signal.

[0159] 19. The device according to claim 18 further includes:

[0160] A flow control actuator configured to deflect the flow of the ablative material within the discharge path; and

[0161] A sample storage device, coupled to the discharge path and configured to receive a sample of the ablation material in response to the flow control actuator redirecting the flow of the ablation material.

[0162] 20. The device according to claim 18, wherein the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing the measurement information to at least one of an ultrasonic ablation energy source or a laser ablation energy source.

[0163] 21. A method for analyzing a biological sample at a site on a patient during a medical procedure and also for processing the biological sample at the same site on the patient during the same medical procedure, the method comprising:

[0164] Biological samples from the patient's body are acoustically processed via an acoustic transmission probe that extends into the patient's body through the working channel of the observation instrument;

[0165] Illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample;

[0166] An optical response signal is obtained in response to illumination of at least a portion of the biological sample; and

[0167] During the same medical procedure as the treatment, the spectral information of the optical response signal is analyzed at the patient's site to determine an indication of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample.

[0168] 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample via a first optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the observation instrument.

[0169] 23. The method according to claim 22, wherein obtaining the optical response signal comprises: transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a camera device of the observation mirror instrument.

[0170] 24. The method according to claim 22, wherein obtaining the optical response signal comprises: transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a second optical path extending along the working channel of the probe through the observation mirror instrument.

[0171] 25. The method according to Scheme 21, comprising:

[0172] At least a portion of the biological sample is discharged from the distal end of the probe toward the local collection container via an discharge path including at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe; and

[0173] When at least a portion of the sample is located in the local collection container, the following are performed on at least a portion of the sample: illuminating at least a portion of the sample, obtaining the optical response, and performing the analysis.

[0174] 26. The method according to Scheme 21, comprising:

[0175] At least a portion of the biological sample is discharged from the distal end of the probe via an discharge path that includes at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe; and

[0176] When at least a portion of the biological sample is discharged along the discharge path, the following operations are performed: illuminating at least a portion of the sample, obtaining the optical response, and performing the analysis.

[0177] 27. The method according to claim 26, wherein illuminating at least a portion of the sample or obtaining at least one or both of the optical responses is performed via at least one optically transparent portion positioned along the discharge path.

[0178] 28. The method according to claim 27, comprising: in response to information indicating an indication that includes at least a portion of the components of the analyzed biological sample, establishing or adjusting at least one of the discharge parameters.

[0179] 29. The method according to claim 28, comprising: in response to information indicating an indication that includes at least a portion of the components of the analyzed biological sample, establishing or adjusting at least one of the acoustic parameters.

[0180] 30. A method for ablating tissue, comprising:

[0181] Energy is applied to the tissue via the distal end of the ablation probe;

[0182] A portion of the ablated tissue is discharged via a drainage path, said drainage path including the channel of the ablation probe;

[0183] As the ablated tissue moves through the discharge path, portions of the ablated tissue are optically sensed; and

[0184] Measure all aspects of the part; and

[0185] Provide a first signal representing the aforementioned aspects.

[0186] 31. The method according to claim 30, comprising: receiving the first signal at a monitor and displaying the aspects.

[0187] 32. The method according to claim 30, wherein applying the energy comprises applying mechanical ablation energy to the tissue; and

[0188] The method includes: receiving the first signal at a mechanical ablation energy source, and adjusting the characteristics of the mechanical ablation energy based on the first signal.

[0189] 33. The method according to claim 30, wherein optically sensing the portion includes an optically transparent portion that guides illumination through the discharge path.

[0190] 34. The method according to claim 33, wherein optically sensing the portion comprises: guiding illumination through the optically transparent portion of the discharge path toward the optical sensor.

[0191] 35. The method according to claim 34, wherein the measurement includes: measuring the optical intensity of the illumination at the optical sensor.

[0192] 36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the first signal is based on the optical intensity of the illumination.

[0193] 37. The method according to claim 33, wherein the optical sensing comprises: receiving responsive illumination from the transparent portion of the discharge path at a spectrometer.

[0194] 38. The method according to claim 37, wherein the measurement includes: measuring spectral information of the responsive illumination.

[0195] 39. The method according to claim 38, wherein the first signal is based on the spectral information.

[0196] 40. The method according to claim 30, comprising: adjusting the flow of the ablated tissue through the discharge path in response to the first signal.

[0197] 41. The method according to claim 40, wherein adjusting the flow comprises: capturing the portion in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0198] 42. A component identification system, comprising:

[0199] A probe is configured to extend through the working channel of an observation mirror and deliver mechanical energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at the distal end of the probe;

[0200] A light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; and

[0201] A spectrometer configured to receive response illumination from at least a portion of the tissue and provide compositional information about at least a portion of the tissue.

[0202] 43. The component identification system according to claim 42, comprising: a first optical medium configured to transmit light from the illumination source to a distal end of the probe.

[0203] 44. The component identification system according to claim 43, wherein the first optical medium extends through the working channel together with the probe.

[0204] 45. The component identification system according to claim 44, including the observation instrument; and

[0205] The observation instrument includes the first optical medium.

[0206] 46. ​​The component identification system according to claim 45, wherein the observation instrument includes a camera device configured to receive the response illumination and transmit the response illumination to the spectrometer via a first signal.

[0207] 47. The component identification system according to claim 43, comprising: a second optical medium configured to extend through the working channel together with the probe, the second optical medium being configured to transmit the illumination response to the spectrometer.

[0208] 48. The component identification system according to claim 42, comprising: an outlet path configured to discharge at least a portion of the tissue toward a collection system, wherein the outlet path includes a channel of the probe.

[0209] 49. The component identification system according to claim 48, wherein the discharge path includes an optically transparent portion located between the probe and the collection system.

[0210] 50. The component identification system according to claim 49, wherein the illumination source is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue at the transparent portion.

[0211] 51. The component identification system according to claim 50, wherein the spectrometer is configured to receive the responsive illumination at the transparent portion.

[0212] 52. The component identification system according to claim 48, comprising: a flow control configured to alter the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer.

[0213] 53. The component identification system according to claim 52, wherein the flow control is configured to capture the portion as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0214] 54. A method for operating a component identification system, the method comprising:

[0215] Tissue is mechanically ablated via a probe that extends through the working channel of the observation instrument;

[0216] Illuminate at least a portion of the tissue to provide responsive illumination; and

[0217] A first signal is generated based on the response illumination, the first signal including spectral analysis information about the components of at least a portion of the tissue.

[0218] 55. The method according to claim 54, wherein the illumination comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the tissue via a first optical medium extending through the working channel together with the probe.

[0219] 56. The method according to claim 55, wherein generating the first signal comprises: relaying the illumination response to the spectrometer via a camera device of the observation instrument.

[0220] 57. The method according to claim 55, wherein generating the first signal comprises: receiving the response illumination at a spectrometer via a second optical medium extending through the working channel together with the probe.

[0221] 58. The method according to claim 54, comprising: discharging at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe toward a collection system via a discharge path, the discharge path including a channel of the probe.

[0222] 59. The method of claim 58, wherein the illumination comprises: illuminating at least a portion of the tissue via an optically transparent portion of the discharge path, the optically transparent portion being located between the proximal ends of the collection system.

[0223] 60. The method according to claim 59, wherein generating the first signal based on the response illumination comprises: receiving the illumination response at a spectrometer located adjacent to the transparent portion.

[0224] 61. The method according to claim 60, comprising: altering the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a second signal received from an upstream sensor of the spectrometer.

[0225] 62. The method according to claim 61, comprising: capturing at least a portion of the tissue as a sample in a sample chamber coupled to the discharge path.

[0226] 63. A system for analyzing and processing biological samples, the system comprising:

[0227] An acoustic transmission probe for acoustically processing the biological sample, which is located in a patient at the distal end of the probe;

[0228] An ejection system configured to eject multiple portions of the biological sample from a region surrounding the distal end of the probe, the multiple portions being broken up from the biological sample in response to the acoustic treatment, wherein the ejection system includes:

[0229] An exhaust path, configured to move the plurality of portions to a destination collection system; and

[0230] A sample chamber, configured to divert a first portion of the plurality of sections from the discharge path to provide a sample of the biological sample.

[0231] 64. The system according to claim 63 includes: a lighting source configured to illuminate a sample in the sample chamber.

[0232] 65. The system according to claim 64, comprising: an optical sensor system configured to generate spectral information based on response illumination received from the sample in response to illumination provided by the illumination source.

[0233] 66. The system according to claim 65, wherein the optical sensor system is a spectrometer configured to provide spectral information of the sample.

[0234] 67. The system according to claim 66, comprising: a controller configured to receive the spectral information and drive the acoustic transmission probe, the controller further configured to adjust parameters for driving the acoustic transmission probe in response to the spectral information.

[0235] The above detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the detailed description. By way of illustration, the drawings show specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples may include elements other than those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Furthermore, the inventors contemplate examples using any combination or substitution of those elements (or one or more aspects of those elements) shown or described with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects of that particular example) or with respect to other examples shown or described herein (or one or more aspects of those other examples).

[0236] In the event of any inconsistency between the usage in this document and any other document incorporated by reference, the usage in this document shall prevail.

[0237] In this document, as is common in patent literature, the terms "a" or "an" are used to include one or more, regardless of any other instance or use of "at least one" or "one or more." In this document, unless otherwise indicated, the term "or" is used to mean a non-exclusive "or," such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B." In this document, the terms "comprising" and "in..." are used as concise English equivalents to the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein." Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "including" are open-ended, meaning that a system, apparatus, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements other than those listed following this term is still considered to fall within the scope of the subject matter discussed. Additionally, as may appear in the claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as designations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their subject matter.

[0238] The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the examples (or one or more aspects of the examples) described above may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments may be used by those skilled in the art after reviewing the above description. An abstract is provided to enable the reader to quickly determine the nature of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted on the understanding that it will not be used to define or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the above detailed embodiments, various features may be combined together to simplify the disclosure. This should not be construed as meaning that all unclaimed disclosed features are necessary for any claim. Rather, the subject matter of the invention may lie in fewer than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. The appended aspects are thus incorporated into the detailed embodiments as examples or embodiments, wherein each aspect exists independently as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments may be combined with each other in various combinations or arrangements.

Claims

1. A component identification system, comprising: A probe is configured to extend through the working channel of an observation mirror and deliver energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at the distal end of the probe; A light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; An optical sensor system configured to receive responsive illumination from at least a portion of the tissue and analyze spectral information of the responsive illumination from at least a portion of the tissue to provide compositional information about at least a portion of the tissue; An exhaust path extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, the exhaust path being configured to exhaust at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe; A collection chamber for collecting at least a portion of the tissue; as well as A controller circuit is configured to establish or adjust at least one of the treatment parameters of the component identification system in real time based on component information of at least a portion of the tissue, to provide closed-loop control of the treatment. The collection chamber is accessed by at least one optical path to allow illumination and obtain spectral information of the responsive illumination, and analysis is performed on at least a portion of the tissue while at least a portion of the tissue is located in the collection chamber.

2. The component identification system according to claim 1 further includes: A flow control actuator configured to divert at least a portion of the tissue from the discharge path to the collection chamber.

3. The component identification system according to claim 2, wherein, The flow control actuator is configured to alter the flow of at least a portion of the tissue through the discharge path in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the collection chamber.

4. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The collection chamber is coupled to the discharge path and configured to receive samples of tissue diverted from the discharge path.

5. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The optical sensor system includes a spectrometer configured to analyze the spectral information.

6. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The discharge path includes an optically transparent portion.

7. The component identification system according to claim 6, wherein, The light source is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue through the optically transparent portion.

8. The component identification system according to claim 6, wherein, The optical sensor system includes a spectrometer configured to analyze the spectral information, and wherein the spectrometer is configured to receive the responsive illumination at the optically transparent portion.

9. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The optical sensor system includes an analyzer configured to generate an estimate of the chemical composition of at least a portion of the tissue based on the spectral information.

10. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The optical sensor system is configured to determine at least one of the following: hardness, density, size, or surface texture of at least a portion of the tissue.

11. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller circuit is configured to provide control signals to the ablation energy source to adjust the treatment parameters based on the component information.

12. The component identification system according to claim 11, wherein, The treatment parameters include at least one of the following: drive signal shape, frequency, amplitude, pulse width, or pulse frequency.

13. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The optical sensor system is configured to transmit the component information to a remote analysis system.

14. The component identification system according to claim 1, wherein, The collection chamber is configured to allow the removal of at least a portion of the tissue for analysis outside the system.

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