Negative pressure suction sheath and endoscope assembly

Abstract

This application provides a negative pressure suction sheath and an endoscope assembly, relating to the field of medical device technology. An ultrasonic transducer is installed on the sheath seat or sheath tube of the negative pressure suction sheath. The output end of the ultrasonic transducer is connected to a metal layer inside the sheath tube. During surgery, if stone fragments cause blockage inside the sheath tube, ultrasonic waves can be generated by activating the ultrasonic transducer. These waves propagate to the metal layer of the sheath tube, where energy is transmitted to the metal layer in the form of mechanical vibration, causing the metal layer to vibrate mechanically, thereby facilitating the smooth removal of the blockage stone fragments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a negative pressure suction sheath and an endoscope assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Ureteroscopic lithotripsy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a ureteroscope is inserted into the ureter or kidney through the urethra or bladder. Under direct vision or with the aid of imaging equipment, the stone is located, and lithotripsy instruments are inserted through the operating channel of the ureteroscope into the lithotripsy area to break up and remove the stone.

[0003] Currently, ureteroscopic lithotripsy typically uses sheath-type instruments to remove stone fragments. However, with existing techniques, stone fragments can easily become lodged within the sheath, hindering efficient removal via negative pressure suction. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a negative pressure suction sheath and an endoscope assembly to solve the aforementioned technical problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a negative pressure suction sheath, including a sheath seat, the sheath seat including a sheath seat body and a negative pressure connector, the sheath seat body having a channel cavity, the negative pressure connector communicating with the channel cavity for connecting a negative pressure source; a sheath tube, the sheath tube being connected to the sheath seat body and communicating with the channel cavity, the sheath tube including a metal layer; and an ultrasonic transducer, the ultrasonic transducer being disposed on the sheath seat body and / or the sheath tube, the output end of the ultrasonic transducer being connected to the metal layer for emitting ultrasonic waves to the metal layer.

[0006] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an endoscope assembly, including the negative pressure suction sheath described in the first aspect and an endoscope, wherein the insertion portion of the endoscope can pass through the channel cavity and the sheath.

[0007] The technical solutions adopted in the embodiments of this application can achieve at least the following beneficial effects: The negative pressure suction sheath in this embodiment includes an ultrasonic transducer, the output end of which is connected to the metal layer in the sheath. During the procedure, stone fragments can be drawn into the channel cavity through the gap between the endoscope insertion part and the sheath under the action of an external negative pressure source, and finally discharged through the negative pressure connector. If stone fragments cause blockage in the gap between the endoscope insertion part and the sheath, the ultrasonic transducer provided on the sheath seat body or sheath can be activated. At this time, the ultrasonic transducer generates ultrasonic waves, which are transmitted directly or through a waveguide to the metal layer of the sheath. The energy is transmitted to the metal layer in the form of mechanical vibration, causing the metal layer to vibrate mechanically, thereby preventing stone fragments from causing blockage in the gap between the endoscope insertion part and the sheath, and facilitating the smooth discharge of stone fragments.

[0008] In addition, ultrasound waves can penetrate the metal layer and enter the perfusion fluid within the sheath. The ultrasound waves propagate longitudinally through the liquid, creating alternating compressed and rarefied regions. During the rarefied phase, the negative pressure on the liquid pulls the liquid molecules apart, forming tiny vacuum bubble nuclei (cavitation nuclei). In the subsequent compressed phase, these tiny bubble nuclei are crushed under a certain positive pressure, thus creating a cavitation effect. The instant the bubbles collapse generates shock waves and microjets locally within the sheath, helping the stone fragments fuse with the perfusion fluid and be drawn out of the body. Attached Figure Description

[0009] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the existing technology for blocking the sheath with stone fragments; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the negative pressure suction sheath from a first-view perspective, illustrating an exemplary embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the negative pressure suction sheath from a second perspective, illustrating an exemplary embodiment of this application. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view along the middle AA section; Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the sheath seat shown in another exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of a negative pressure suction sheath shown in another exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a second-view structural schematic diagram of the negative pressure suction sheath shown in another exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of the middle BB; Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A magnified view of a portion of point B in the middle; Figure 11 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 12This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 13 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of the sheath shown in another exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of the sheath shown in another exemplary embodiment of this application.

[0011] In the picture: 1. Negative pressure suction sheath; 100. Sheath seat; 101. Sheath seat body; 1011. Channel cavity; 1012. Proximal opening; 1013. Sealing element; 1014. Through hole; 102. Negative pressure connector; 200. Sheath tube; 201. Metal layer; 202. Outer layer; 203. Inner layer; 300. Ultrasonic transducer; 400. Waveguide; 500. Connecting part; 600. Clearance cavity; 700. Transition element; 2. Insertion part. Detailed Implementation

[0012] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions of this application will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0013] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0014] In minimally invasive urological surgeries such as ureteroscopic lithotripsy, the negative pressure suction sheath plays a crucial role in maintaining a clear endoscopic view and regulating renal pelvis pressure. Through negative pressure suction, it can promptly remove intraoperative stones and fluid, ensuring the smooth progress of the surgery. Figure 1As shown (the elliptical pattern in the figure represents stone fragments), the applicant discovered that in the prior art, when using endoscope sheaths to remove stone fragments, the insertion part 2 of the endoscope comes into contact with the inner wall of the sheath 200 of the negative pressure suction sheath. This causes the stone fragments to easily become blocked inside the endoscope sheath, thus preventing efficient removal of them from the body by negative pressure suction. Therefore, this application provides a negative pressure suction sheath and an endoscope assembly to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0015] An ultrasonic transducer is a device that uses the piezoelectric effect or magnetostriction effect to convert electrical signals into ultrasonic waves, or to convert received ultrasonic waves into electrical signals. The most common type of ultrasonic transducer is based on the piezoelectric effect. It uses quartz crystals or artificially synthesized piezoelectric ceramics as piezoelectric materials. When an electric field is applied, they deform; conversely, when subjected to mechanical pressure or deformation, an electric charge is generated on their surface. In an ultrasonic transducer, by applying an alternating voltage to the piezoelectric element, it can produce periodic expansion and contraction, thereby generating ultrasonic waves. The frequency depends on the frequency of the applied voltage, and the amplitude depends on the magnitude of the voltage. When the ultrasonic wave encounters an object, the reflected sound wave will again cause the piezoelectric element to deform, generating a corresponding electrical signal, thus achieving the reception of the ultrasonic wave. Another type of ultrasonic transducer utilizes the magnetostriction effect. Magnetostrictive materials undergo dimensional changes under the influence of a magnetic field. By applying an alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive element, it can be made to vibrate, thereby generating ultrasonic waves.

[0016] The following combination Figures 2-14 As shown, the negative pressure suction sheath and endoscope assembly disclosed in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail.

[0017] This application provides a negative pressure suction sheath, comprising: a sheath base 100, the sheath base 100 including a sheath base body 101 and a negative pressure connector 102, the sheath base body 101 having a channel cavity 1011, and the negative pressure connector 102 communicating with the channel cavity 1011 for connecting a negative pressure source. The negative pressure suction sheath 1 also includes a sheath tube 200, which is connected to the sheath base body 101 and communicates with the channel cavity 1011, and the sheath tube 200 includes a metal layer 201. The negative pressure suction sheath 1 further includes an ultrasonic transducer 300, which is disposed on the sheath base body 101, and the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 is connected to the metal layer 201 for emitting ultrasonic waves into the metal layer 201.

[0018] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 2An ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed on the sheath body 101. The output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 is directly connected to the metal layer 201 in the sheath 200, or the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 is connected to the metal layer 201 in the sheath 200 through a waveguide 400. During the procedure, stone fragments can be drawn into the channel cavity 1011 through the gap between the insertion part 2 of the endoscope and the sheath 200 under the action of an external negative pressure source, and finally discharged through the negative pressure connector 102. If stone fragments block the gap between the sheath 200 and the insertion part 2, ultrasonic waves can be generated by turning on the ultrasonic transducer 300. The ultrasonic waves propagate to the metal layer 201 of the sheath 200, and the energy of the ultrasonic waves is transmitted to the metal layer 201 in the form of mechanical vibration, causing the metal layer 201 to vibrate mechanically, thereby preventing stone fragments from blocking the gap between the sheath 200 and the insertion part 2, and facilitating the smooth discharge of stone fragments.

[0019] In addition, ultrasound waves can be transmitted through the metal layer 201 into the perfusion fluid within the sheath 200. The ultrasound waves propagate in the liquid as longitudinal waves, forming alternating compressed and rarefied regions. During the rarefied phase, the negative pressure on the liquid pulls the liquid molecules apart, forming tiny vacuum bubble nuclei (cavitation nuclei). In the subsequent compressed phase, these tiny bubble nuclei are crushed under a certain positive pressure, thus creating a cavitation effect. The instant the bubbles collapse, a certain amount of shock wave and microjet are generated locally within the sheath 200, thereby helping the stone fragments fuse with the perfusion fluid and be drawn out of the body.

[0020] It should be noted that in the early stages of the surgery, the negative pressure suction sheath 1 is used in conjunction with a dilator. The dilator is inserted into the sheath 200, with the tip of the dilator extending beyond the distal end of the sheath 200. The tip of the dilator is a soft, long, conical shape, used to first contact and push aside the ureteral wall. Guided by the tip of the dilator, the elastic sheath 200 of the negative pressure suction sheath 1 enters from the patient's urethral opening and sequentially enters the urethra and ureter, finally reaching the kidney that needs stone fragmentation. At this point, the dilator is withdrawn from the negative pressure suction sheath 1, and the insertion part 2 of the endoscope is inserted into the sheath 200 through the channel cavity 1011. The insertion part 2 has an instrument channel for the insertion of lithotripsy instruments such as laser fiber or ultrasonic amplitude transformer, ultimately achieving the stone fragmentation work. That is, the sheath 200 of the negative pressure suction sheath 1 plays the role of establishing a channel. In this embodiment, there is a gap between the insertion part 2 and the inner wall of the sheath 200. The negative pressure source can expel the stone fragments from the gap. Most importantly, the metal layer 201, which originally played a supporting role in the sheath 200, is reused as an acoustic waveguide. By propagating the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic waves to the metal layer 201, it generates mechanical vibration, which is conducive to the expulsion of the stone fragments.

[0021] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed on the outer wall of the sheath body 101.

[0022] The ultrasonic transducer 300 is mounted on the outer wall of the sheath body 101, which facilitates the installation and control of the ultrasonic transducer 300 and also helps with heat dissipation. Understandably, this design reduces the physical distance between the ultrasonic transducer 300 and the metal layer 201, allowing the ultrasonic transducer 300 to be connected to the metal layer 201 either directly through its output end or through the waveguide 400; no limitation is imposed here.

[0023] like Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, taking the ultrasonic transducer 300 as an example, which is located on the top of the outer wall of the sheath body 101 and connected to the metal layer 201 through the waveguide 400, an opening can be provided at the position corresponding to the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 in the sheath body 101. This allows one end of the waveguide 400 to pass through the opening from the channel cavity 1011 and connect to the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300, while the other end connects to the metal layer 201 of the sheath tube 200. The natural frequency of the waveguide 400 matches the operating frequency of the ultrasonic transducer 300. The materials used for the waveguide 400 include, but are not limited to, titanium alloy, aluminum alloy, and alloy steel. The function of the waveguide 400 is to smoothly transmit the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 300 to the metal layer 201, so that the metal layer 201 can generate mechanical vibration under the action of the ultrasonic waves, thereby ensuring the smooth discharge of stone fragments. To further amplify the vibration amplitude of the ultrasonic wave, the cross-sectional shape of the waveguide 400 in this embodiment can be, but is not limited to, exponential, conical, stepped, catenary, or a composite shape combining multiple shapes, and can be selected according to the actual situation.

[0024] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed on the outer wall near the distal end of the sheath body 101.

[0025] like Figure 4 or Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is located at the far end closer to the sheath body 101, that is, at the end closer to the sheath tube 200. At this time, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is closer to the metal layer 201 of the sheath tube 200, and the waveguide 400 is shorter, thereby reducing the propagation distance of the ultrasonic wave from the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 to the metal layer 201 and reducing the energy loss of the ultrasonic wave.

[0026] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed on the outer wall near the proximal end of the sheath body 101.

[0027] like Figure 6As shown, in this embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is positioned closer to the proximal end of the sheath body 101, i.e., closer to the end where the endoscope is inserted. At this location, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is close to the operator's hand area, allowing the operator to control its operation without excessive hand gesture adjustments, thus improving ease of use. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is relatively farther from the sheath 200, requiring a longer waveguide 400. A longer waveguide 400 is easier to design with a resonant structure whose axial length is an integer multiple of half the wavelength, thereby forming a stable standing wave at the target operating frequency and achieving efficient acoustic energy transmission. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer 300 has a certain weight. Positioning it closer to the proximal end shifts the center of gravity of the entire negative pressure suction sheath 1 towards the operator's hand, which is more ergonomic and improves the operator's grip experience.

[0028] In some embodiments, an ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed on a sheath 200.

[0029] Understandably, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is a device for emitting ultrasonic waves. Placing it on the sheath 200 reduces the physical distance between the ultrasonic transducer 300 and the metal layer 201 in the sheath 200, thereby reducing the transmission path length of the ultrasonic waves and lowering energy loss. Furthermore, compared to placing the ultrasonic transducer 300 on the outer wall of the sheath body 101, placing it on the sheath 200 saves space in the sheath body 101.

[0030] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed on the outer wall of the sheath body 101 and is at least partially located on the outer wall of the sheath tube 200.

[0031] The volume of the sheath body 101 is larger than that of the sheath tube 200, which makes it easier to install and control the main body of the ultrasonic transducer 300. At the same time, the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 is set at the sheath tube 200, which reduces the physical distance between the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 and the metal layer 201 while ensuring the stable installation of the ultrasonic transducer 300.

[0032] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is disposed within the channel cavity 1011.

[0033] like Figure 7 or Figure 8As shown, in this embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is placed inside the channel cavity 1011 of the sheath body 101. Firstly, the cavity within the channel cavity 1011 itself can be used to house the ultrasonic transducer 300, thereby avoiding the occupation of external space of the sheath body 100 and not increasing the volume of the sheath body 101. Secondly, compared to the outside of the sheath tube 200, the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 is closer to the metal layer 201 of the sheath tube 200 when placed inside the channel cavity 1011, which can transmit ultrasonic waves to the metal layer 201 more quickly and reduce energy loss in the transmission path.

[0034] like Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 can be directly connected to the metal layer 201, thus further reducing energy loss along the transmission path. In another embodiment, as... Figure 12 As shown, the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 can also be connected to the metal layer 201 using a waveguide 400. The selection of the material and cross-sectional shape of the waveguide 400 can be referred to the above embodiment.

[0035] In some embodiments, the sheath body 101 further includes a proximal opening 1012 disposed at its proximal end and a seal 1013 connected to the proximal opening 1012. The seal 1013 is provided with a through hole 1014, and the central axis of the through hole 1014 is offset relative to the central axis of the channel cavity 1011 toward the side where the ultrasonic transducer 300 is located.

[0036] like Figure 4 or Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the proximal end of the sheath body 101 is provided with a proximal opening 1012. The proximal opening 1012 is sealed by a detachable connection with the sealing member 1013, such as a snap-fit, plug-in, or threaded connection. At the same time, a through hole 1014 is provided on the sealing member 1013. The through hole 1014 is used for the insertion part 2 of the dilator or endoscope. The central axis of the through hole 1014 is offset relative to the central axis of the channel cavity 1011 towards the side where the ultrasonic transducer 300 is located. That is, the eccentric setting of the through hole 1014 forms a clearance space in the channel cavity 1011 on the side of the through hole 1014 away from the ultrasonic transducer 300. The clearance space avoids the waveguide 400, which is more conducive to the accumulation of stone fragments in the clearance space and their discharge through the negative pressure connector 102.

[0037] In some embodiments, the metal layer 201 is a coiled spring, and the pitch p of the coiled spring is the longitudinal wave wavelength λ of the ultrasonic wave generated by the ultrasonic transducer 300 propagating in the coiled spring. L Satisfying the relation: p≤λ L / 10; and / or, the pitch p of the coiled spring is related to the torsional wavelength λ of the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 300 propagating in the coiled spring.T Satisfying the relation: p≤λ T / 10.

[0038] When the metal layer 201 is a coiled spring, its helical structure gives it the ability to switch between longitudinal and torsional modes. That is, the helical structure can convert the longitudinal wave portion of the ultrasonic wave into a torsional wave, and the torsional wave is more beneficial for the anti-clogging function of the sheath 200. In this embodiment, the pitch p of the coiled spring and the longitudinal wave wavelength λ of the ultrasonic wave generated by the ultrasonic transducer 300 propagating in the coiled spring are... L Satisfying the relation: p≤λ L / 10 ensures that the coiled spring behaves as a uniform equivalent medium for longitudinal waves, thus avoiding longitudinal wave dispersion and guaranteeing the vibration effect of the coiled spring. In addition, the pitch p of the coiled spring and the torsional wavelength λ of the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 300 propagating in the coiled spring are also considered. T Satisfying the relation: p≤λ T The / 10 design ensures that the coiled spring behaves as a uniform equivalent medium for torsional waves, thus avoiding torsional wave dispersion. This design enables the coiled spring to achieve a longitudinal-torsional composite working mode, further improving the anti-clogging capability of the negative pressure suction sheath 1.

[0039] In some embodiments, the sheath 200 is connected to the sheath seat body 101 via at least one connecting portion 500. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the sheath seat body 101 and the sheath tube 200 are connected by two connecting parts 500. Of course, in some other embodiments of this application, the number of connecting parts between the sheath seat body 101 and the sheath tube 200 may be one, three, four, or other numbers.

[0040] In some embodiments, the connection portion 500 is located at one or more nodes where the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 300 propagate in the metal layer 201.

[0041] like Figure 11 As shown, under this structural layout, when the metal layer 201 operates at its resonant frequency, ultrasonic waves will propagate within the metal layer 201, forming standing waves. Therefore, there are two special positions along the length of the metal layer 201: antinodes, which are the positions where the amplitude of the metal layer 201 is the largest; and nodes, which are the positions where the amplitude is the smallest (theoretically close to zero). Based on this, this embodiment improves the connection relationship between the sheath body 101 and the sheath tube 200 so that the connecting part 500 is precisely located at the node where the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 300 propagate in the metal layer 201. The vibration amplitude of the metal layer 201 is the smallest at the node, and the connecting part 500 is positioned here so as not to hinder the vibration of the metal layer 201, which is conducive to the smooth transmission of mechanical vibration within the metal layer 201.

[0042] Understandably, if the connecting portion 500 is located at a non-node position of the sheath 200, the fixing constraint of the connecting portion 500 on the sheath 200 will disrupt the original longitudinal or torsional standing wave modes of the metal layer 201, thereby exciting parasitic vibration modes such as bending waves and higher-order harmonics. These parasitic modes not only consume energy but also cause uncontrollable lateral oscillations of the sheath 200, increasing the risk of damage to, for example, the ureteral mucosa. Therefore, in this embodiment, by placing multiple connecting portions 500 at nodes, the interference of parasitic vibration modes on the sheath 200 can be minimized.

[0043] In a specific embodiment, the detailed manner in which the connecting portion 500 is disposed at the node is as follows: The spacing between nodes is equal to half the wavelength. For example, for a 20kHz ultrasound, the wavelength in the metal layer 201 is about 250mm, and half the wavelength is 125mm. Therefore, the connection part 500 can be set at an integer multiple of 125mm from the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300. Thus, when the sheath 200 is connected to the sheath seat 100, the connection part 500 is located at one or more nodes of the ultrasound emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 300 as it propagates in the metal layer 201.

[0044] In some embodiments, a clearance cavity 600 is provided between two adjacent connecting portions 500.

[0045] like Figure 11 As shown, the multiple connecting parts 500 ensure the stability of the connection between the sheath base body 101 and the sheath tube 200. In this embodiment, a clearance cavity 600 is provided between adjacent connecting parts 500, providing an unconstrained free vibration space for the metal layer 201 located at the corresponding position of the clearance cavity 600. This prevents the outer wall of the sheath tube 200 from directly contacting the inner wall of the sheath base body 101 at the clearance cavity 600, avoiding interference of the inner wall of the sheath base body 101 with the vibration of the metal layer 201 and absorbing the vibration energy of the metal layer 201. The clearance cavity 600 also reduces the contact area between the inner wall of the sheath base body 101 and the outer wall of the sheath tube 200, thereby reducing the vibration transmission of the metal layer 201 to the sheath base body 101 and preventing excessive transmission of vibration energy to the sheath base 101, which could cause the sheath base body 101 to vibrate. If the sheath base body 101 vibrates, it could not only cause damage to the body cavity of the human body by the sheath tube 200, but also affect the operator's operating experience.

[0046] In some embodiments, the sheath 200 has a multi-layered structure, consisting of an inner layer 203, a metal layer 201, and an outer layer 202 from the inside out.

[0047] Please refer to Figure 13In this embodiment, the inner wall of the sheath 200 is divided into an outer layer 202, a metal layer 201, and an inner layer 203. Both the inner layer 203 and the outer layer 202 are made of plastic, although the type of plastic can differ. For example, the outer layer 202 can be made of polyether block polyamide. The material of the outer layer 202 near the distal end of the sheath 200 can be softer than that near the proximal end to ensure a certain degree of flexibility at the distal end of the sheath 200. The inner layer 203 is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which ensures a smooth inner wall of the sheath 200, facilitating the smooth discharge of stone fragments. It is understood that the outer layer 202 and the inner layer 203 can also be made of other materials with the same properties as described above, and this is not a limitation. The metal layer 201 can be made of a coiled spring, which ensures flexibility while effectively transmitting mechanical vibration.

[0048] In some embodiments, the sheath 200 has, from the inside out, an inner layer 203, a metal layer 201, and an outer layer 202, with the inner layer 203 having a thickness less than the outer layer 202.

[0049] In this embodiment, the thickness of the inner layer 203 is set to be less than that of the outer layer 202. While ensuring that the overall wall thickness of the sheath 200 is not too thick, the thinner inner layer 203 effectively reduces the attenuation of vibration energy when it is transmitted into the sheath 200, thus enhancing the anti-clogging effect of the sheath 200. At the same time, the thicker outer layer 202 provides mechanical buffering and thermal insulation, avoiding the impact of vibration of the metal layer 201 and the temperature rise during vibration on the human mucosa.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sheath 200 has a double-layer structure, consisting of a metal layer 201 and an outer layer 202 from the inside out.

[0051] Please refer to Figure 14 In this embodiment, the inner wall of the sheath 200 adopts a double-layer structure, namely a metal layer 201 and an outer layer 202. The material can be the same as that in the above embodiments. The metal layer 201 can directly contact the infusion fluid or stone fragments, which facilitates the transmission of vibration to the infusion fluid or stone fragments and helps prevent blockage. At the same time, it reduces the wall thickness of the sheath 200.

[0052] In some embodiments, the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 is directly connected to the metal layer 201, and the end of the output end of the ultrasonic transducer 300 away from the ultrasonic transducer 300 has a transition section, the cross-sectional area of ​​which gradually decreases in the direction away from the ultrasonic transducer 300; or, the ultrasonic transducer 300 is connected to the metal layer 201 through a waveguide 400, the end of the waveguide 400 away from the ultrasonic transducer 300 has a transition section, the cross-sectional area of ​​which gradually decreases in the direction away from the ultrasonic transducer 300; or, a transition member 700 is provided near the end of the metal layer 201, the transition member 700 having a first end connected to the ultrasonic transducer 300 or the waveguide 400, and a second end connected to the metal layer 201, the cross-sectional area of ​​the transition member 700 gradually decreasing in the direction from the first end to the second end.

[0053] In this embodiment, a transition section is provided at the end of the output end or the waveguide 400 away from the ultrasonic transducer 300, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the transition section gradually decreases in the direction away from the ultrasonic transducer 300. This design can form a gradually changing acoustic impedance region at the output end or the waveguide 400 between the metal layers 201, preventing the ultrasonic waves from encountering abrupt changes in cross-section during transmission, making the propagation of the ultrasonic waves smoother and improving the transmission efficiency.

[0054] In another embodiment, such as Figure 13 or Figure 14 As shown, a transition member 700 can also be provided near the end of the metal layer 201. The transition member 700 has a first end connected to the ultrasonic transducer 300 or the waveguide 400, and a second end connected to the metal layer 201. The cross-sectional area of ​​the transition member 700 gradually decreases from the first end to the second end, as shown in the figure. Figure 13 As shown, the transition piece 700 is conical, as... Figure 14 As shown, the transition piece 700 is stepped. Whether it is a conical transition piece 700 or a stepped transition piece 700, it can form a gradually changing acoustic impedance region at the output end or between the metal layers 201 of the waveguide 400, which prevents the ultrasonic wave from encountering a sudden change in cross-section during transmission, making the ultrasonic wave propagation smoother and improving the transmission efficiency.

[0055] In some embodiments, the corresponding portion of the distal end of the sheath body 101 that contacts the sheath tube 200 is made of a flexible material. The flexible material can reduce the absorption of mechanical vibrations transmitted within the metal layer 201, thereby further ensuring the transmission efficiency of mechanical vibrations. It is understood that the flexible material may be, but is not limited to, rubber, silicone, polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, etc.

[0056] In some embodiments, the sheath 200 includes a flexible curved section and a main body section arranged sequentially from its distal end to its proximal end. A metal layer 201 is disposed on the main body section. The flexible curved section may be, but is not limited to, made of materials such as rubber, silicone, polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, etc., which can ensure that the sheath 200 has sufficient flexibility to move within the human body.

[0057] This application provides an endoscope assembly, including the negative pressure suction sheath 1 and the endoscope in the above embodiment, wherein the insertion part 2 of the endoscope can pass through the channel cavity 1011 and the sheath 200.

[0058] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0059] Furthermore, it should be noted that the scope of the methods and apparatus in the embodiments of this application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, but may also include performing functions substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order, depending on the functions involved. For example, the described methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. In addition, features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.

[0060] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A negative pressure suction sheath, characterized in that, include: Sheath seat (100), the sheath seat includes a sheath seat body (101) and a negative pressure connector (102), the sheath seat body (101) is provided with a channel cavity (1011), and the negative pressure connector (102) is connected to the channel cavity (1011) for connecting a negative pressure source; A sheath (200) is connected to the sheath seat body (101) and communicates with the channel cavity (1011). The sheath (200) includes a metal layer (201). An ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed on the sheath body (101) and / or the sheath tube (200), and the output end of the ultrasonic transducer (300) is connected to the metal layer (201) for emitting ultrasonic waves to the metal layer (201).

2. The negative pressure suction sheath according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed on the outer wall of the sheath body (101), or the ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed on the outer wall of the sheath tube (200), or the ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed on the outer wall of the sheath body (101) and is at least partially located on the outer wall of the sheath tube (200). The output end of the ultrasonic transducer (300) is connected to the metal layer (201), or the ultrasonic transducer (300) is connected to the metal layer (201) through a waveguide (400).

3. The negative pressure suction sheath according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed on the outer wall near the proximal end of the sheath body (101), or the ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed on the outer wall near the distal end of the sheath body (101).

4. The negative pressure suction sheath according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasonic transducer (300) is disposed in the channel cavity (1011) of the sheath body (101); The output end of the ultrasonic transducer (300) is directly connected to the metal layer (201), or the negative pressure suction sheath further includes a waveguide (400), and the ultrasonic transducer (300) is connected to the metal layer (201) through the waveguide (400).

5. The negative pressure suction sheath according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The sheath body (101) also includes a proximal opening (1012) and a seal (1013) disposed at its proximal end. The seal (1013) is connected to the proximal opening (1012). The seal (1013) is provided with a through hole (1014). The central axis of the through hole (1014) is offset relative to the central axis of the channel cavity (1011) toward the side where the ultrasonic transducer (300) is located. And / or, the metal layer (201) is a coiled spring, the pitch p of which is the longitudinal wave wavelength λ of the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer (300) propagating in the coiled spring. L Satisfying the relation: p≤λ L / 10; And / or, the pitch p of the coiled spring and the torsional wavelength λ of the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer (300) propagating in the coiled spring. T Satisfying the relation: p≤λ T / 10.

6. The negative pressure suction sheath according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The sheath (200) is connected to the sheath seat body (101) via at least one connecting part (500): The connecting portion (500) is located at one or more nodes where the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic transducer (300) propagate in the metal layer (201); And / or, a clearance cavity (600) is provided between two adjacent connecting parts (500).

7. The negative pressure suction sheath according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The sheath (200) has a multi-layered wall structure, consisting of an inner layer (203), a metal layer (201), and an outer layer (202) from the inside out. Alternatively, the sheath (200) has a double-layer structure, consisting of a metal layer (201) and an outer layer (202) from the inside out.

8. The negative pressure suction sheath according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thickness of the inner layer (203) is less than the thickness of the outer layer (202).

9. The negative pressure suction sheath according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The output end of the ultrasonic transducer (300) is directly connected to the metal layer (201). The end of the output end of the ultrasonic transducer (300) away from the ultrasonic transducer (300) has a transition section, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the transition section gradually decreases in the direction away from the ultrasonic transducer (300). Alternatively, the ultrasonic transducer (300) is connected to the metal layer (201) via a waveguide (400), and the waveguide (400) has a transition section at the end away from the ultrasonic transducer (300), the cross-sectional area of ​​the transition section gradually decreasing in the direction away from the ultrasonic transducer (300). Alternatively, a transition member (700) may be provided near the metal layer (201), the transition member (700) having a first end connected to the ultrasonic transducer (300) or the waveguide (400) and a second end connected to the metal layer (201), the cross-sectional area of ​​the transition member (700) gradually decreasing along the direction from the first end toward the second end.

10. An endoscope assembly, characterized in that, The endoscope assembly includes a negative pressure suction sheath (1) as described in any one of claims 1-9 and an endoscope, wherein the insertion portion (2) of the endoscope can pass through the channel cavity (1011) and the sheath (200).

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