Ultrasonic endoscope and tip portion thereof

Abstract

The application provides an ultrasonic endoscope and a head end thereof, comprising a head end seat and an ultrasonic probe, the head end seat has a proximal end and a distal end in a first direction, the radial dimension of the proximal end is larger than that of the distal end, a base end surface is formed at the joint of the proximal end and the distal end, a camera window is arranged on the base end surface, and the ultrasonic probe is connected to the distal end side of the distal end; the distal end is formed with a guide groove for guiding medical instruments, the guide groove has a guide outlet opening on one side towards a second direction and extending from the base end surface towards the distal end side, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, the base end edge of the guide outlet is located on the base end surface, a first reference surface perpendicular to the second direction is defined, and the projection of the camera window towards the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base end edge in the first direction. The head end provided by the application can remove blood and other contaminants on the surface of the camera window by forming negative pressure suction at the guide outlet, and can improve the overall imaging effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of endoscopy technology, and more specifically, to an ultrasonic endoscope and its tip. Background Technology

[0002] Endoscopic imaging, as a non-invasive imaging device, effectively extends the human field of vision and is widely used in imaging diagnosis and image-guided therapy in multiple fields such as the digestive, urinary, and respiratory systems, greatly improving the accuracy of disease examination. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an endoscope with ultrasound imaging capabilities, which can perform ultrasound diagnosis of tissues within cavities and / or, under the guidance of ultrasound images, perform biopsies of internal tissues to obtain information on deeper lesions.

[0003] The part of an endoscopic ultrasound device that enters the body is a slender insertion section. The distal end of this insertion section can form a tip, which integrates functions such as illumination, imaging, ultrasound detection, and instrument extraction. The tip typically has an illumination window and a camera window. The illumination window provides light to the imaging area, while the camera window allows for image acquisition of the area.

[0004] When using an ultrasonic endoscope, the camera window is easily contaminated with liquids such as blood and mucus, which can affect the imaging effect. To address this, a water and air nozzle can be installed at the tip to clean the camera window. However, for ultrasonic endoscopes such as ultrasonic bronchoscopes, which have high requirements for the diameter of the tip, the water and air nozzle must be omitted due to the limited installation space at the tip. As a result, the imaging effect may be poor due to liquid contamination of the camera window. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to at least partially solve the problems existing in the prior art, according to one aspect of the present invention, a head end of an ultrasonic endoscope is provided, the technical solution of which is as follows.

[0006] The tip of the ultrasound endoscope includes a tip base and an ultrasound probe. The tip base has a proximal end and a distal end in a first direction. The radial dimension of the proximal end is larger than that of the distal end. A base end face is formed at the connection between the proximal end and the distal end. An imaging window is provided on the base end face. The distal end has a distal side away from the base end face, and the ultrasound probe is connected to the distal side. A guide groove for exporting medical devices is formed on the distal end. The guide groove has an opening on one side facing a second direction and an export port extending from the base end face toward the distal side. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The base edge of the export port is located on the base end face. The surface perpendicular to the second direction is defined as a first reference surface. The projection of the imaging window toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base edge in the first direction.

[0007] The head end provided by this invention has a guide groove formed on the distal end of the head end seat. The guide groove has an outlet. A negative pressure attraction can be formed near the outlet by an external negative pressure generating device. The base edge of the outlet is located on the base end face, so the negative pressure attraction formed near the base edge of the outlet can extend to the base end face. Furthermore, since the camera window is disposed on the base end face, and the projection of the camera window toward the first reference plane is at least partially located in the area corresponding to the base edge in the first direction, there is basically no structural obstruction between the camera window and the base edge. Therefore, the negative pressure attraction near the base edge of the outlet can effectively remove contaminants such as blood adhering to the surface of the camera window, thereby cleaning the contaminants on the surface of the camera window and avoiding poor image quality due to blood contamination of the camera window, thus maintaining a better imaging effect. The tip is used in ultrasonic endoscopes, especially ultrasonic bronchoscopes, which have high requirements for a small tip diameter. It can clean contaminants (such as blood) attached to the surface of the camera window by suction, avoiding the problem of poor imaging effect due to blood or other contaminants on the camera window. Moreover, it can achieve the above purpose without the need for water or air nozzles or other structures. The overall size of the tip can be smaller, which is conducive to space saving and meets the requirements of ultrasonic endoscopes such as ultrasonic bronchoscopes for a small tip diameter.

[0008] For example, an illumination window is provided on the base end face, and the projection of the illumination window onto the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the edge of the base end in the first direction. As mentioned above, the negative pressure near the outlet can create a better attraction effect on the region corresponding to the edge of the base end. Therefore, when the projection of the illumination window onto the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the edge of the base end in the first direction, the negative pressure near the edge of the base end can also create a better attraction effect on the surface of the illumination window. This can avoid the problem of insufficient illumination during shooting due to blood or other liquids on the illumination window, thereby improving the overall imaging effect during shooting.

[0009] For example, the lighting window includes a first lighting window and a second lighting window. The projection of the first lighting window onto a first reference surface is defined as the first window projection, and the projection of the second lighting window onto the first reference surface is defined as the second window projection. At least a portion of at least one of the first window projection and the second window projection is located in the region corresponding to the base edge in a first direction. The fact that at least a portion of at least one of the first window projection and the second window projection is located in the region corresponding to the base edge in the first direction ensures that when negative pressure is formed near the outlet to attract contaminants, a good attraction effect can be achieved on at least a portion of at least one of the first lighting window and the second lighting window, ensuring that at least one of the first lighting window and the second lighting window can provide sufficient illumination.

[0010] For example, the first and second lighting windows are symmetrically arranged about the camera window. The projections of the first and second windows are located at opposite ends of the base edge in a third direction, such that both projections are at least partially located within the region corresponding to the base edge in a first direction; the third direction is perpendicular to the first and second directions, respectively. When both projections are at least partially located within the region corresponding to the base edge in the first direction, the first and second lighting windows are at least partially located within the region corresponding to the outlet on the base surface. This allows for better suction of blood and other contaminants on the first and second lighting windows when negative pressure is created near the outlet for suction. It ensures that both the symmetrically arranged first and second lighting windows about the camera window provide adequate illumination, and that the first and second lighting windows as a whole provide more uniform illumination.

[0011] For example, a connecting channel extending along a first direction within the proximal end and communicating with a guide groove is provided. The outlet of the connecting channel is located at the junction of the proximal and distal ends to form an instrument channel outlet. In the first direction, the instrument channel outlet is closer to the base end side relative to the base edge. A transition surface is also formed at the junction of the proximal and distal ends, connecting the base edge and the top edge of the instrument channel outlet. By providing the transition surface, a stronger negative pressure can be generated near the base edge of the outlet, and the transition surface can guide the movement of blood and other contaminants under negative pressure suction near the outlet, thereby improving the suction effect.

[0012] For example, the transition surface and the extended surface of the base surface have an included angle α, where 0° < α ≤ 60°. Such a transition surface can provide better guidance for the movement of contaminants such as blood under negative pressure near the outlet.

[0013] For example, there is a minimum distance S between the camera window and the base edge, where 2mm ≥ S > 0mm. When the minimum distance S between the camera window and the base edge satisfies 2mm ≥ S > 0mm, the distance between the camera window and the base edge is relatively short, and the negative pressure near the base edge can better attract contaminants such as blood adhering to the surface of the camera window.

[0014] For example, a connecting channel extending along a first direction from the proximal end is connected to the guide groove. The connecting channel sequentially comprises a front connecting channel section and an outlet section in the first direction. The front connecting channel section is for the clamping channel front connector to pass through. The end of the outlet section closest to the front connecting channel section is defined as the base end, and the end furthest from the front connecting channel section is defined as the distal end. The distal end connects to the guide groove. From the base end to the distal end, the diameter of the outlet section gradually increases. The diameter of the distal end of the outlet section can be larger than the diameter of the base end. This allows the top of the distal end of the outlet section to be closer to the edge of the base end, further shortening the distance between the suction outlet negative pressure point and the camera window, thus strengthening the suction force at the camera window.

[0015] For example, from the base end face to the distal side, the outlet has an attraction segment, a transition segment, and an outlet segment arranged sequentially. The attraction segment has the largest opening size in the third direction, which is perpendicular to both the first and second directions. Because the attraction segment is closer to the base end face, when the opening size of the attraction segment is largest in the third direction, the attraction coverage area on the base end face can be wider (i.e., more areas on the base end face have suction), resulting in a better attraction effect. This further enhances the effect of attracting the corresponding area on the base end face through negative pressure near the base edge.

[0016] For example, the transition section is a straight section, and in the third direction, the opening size of the transition section is equal to the opening size of the suction section. The transition section can be used to realize the routine suction function of blood, mucus, etc. in the cavity. When the opening size of the transition section is equal to the opening size of the suction section, a good suction coverage range can be maintained.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, an ultrasonic endoscope is provided. The ultrasonic endoscope includes an insertion portion, which includes any of the tip portions described above. Since the tip portions described above have the aforementioned beneficial effects, the ultrasonic endoscope including the tip portions described above also has the aforementioned beneficial effects, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0018] A series of simplified concepts are introduced in the description of the invention, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0019] The advantages and features of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The following figures are included as part of this invention for understanding its principles. The figures illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the figures,

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an ultrasonic endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a portion of the structure of the insertion part according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a front view of a portion of the structure in the insertion section according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A partial enlarged view of a portion of the structure in the insertion section shown;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a side view of a portion of the structure in the insertion section according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure in the insertion section according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The enlarged view of a partial cross-sectional view of the insertion section shows the negative pressure suction at the outlet.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a portion of the structure of the insertion part according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure in the insertion part according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0030] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A partial enlarged view of the cross-sectional view of the inserted part shown.

[0031] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0032] 1. Ultrasonic endoscope; 10. Insertion section; 11. Tip; 100. Tip seat; 110. Proximal end; 111. Connecting channel; 1111. Instrument channel outlet; 1111a. Tip edge; 1112. Anterior connecting channel section; 1113. Outlet section; 1113a. Basal end; 1113b. Distal end; 120. Distal end; 121. Distal side; 122. Guide groove; 123. Outlet; 1231 1232. Suction section; 1233. Transition section; 130. Outlet section; 131. Base end face; 132. Camera window; 133. Illumination window; 134. First illumination window; 135. Second illumination window; 136. Base end edge; 140. Transition surface; 200. Ultrasonic probe; 12. Bending part; 13. Insertion tube; 20. Operating part; 30. Light guide tube; 40. Light guide part; 50. Cable; 60. Ultrasonic connector. Detailed Implementation

[0033] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the invention, and that the invention can be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid obscuring the invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.

[0034] An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an endoscope equipped with ultrasound imaging capabilities. An EUS typically includes an insertion section, with an ultrasound probe located at the distal end. An instrument channel may be provided within the insertion section, through which medical instruments can pass to assist in diagnosis or treatment under ultrasound guidance. For ease of description, the term "distal" in this article refers to the end closer to the object being observed along the length axis of the insertion section of the EUS when the operator is using the endoscope; the term "proximal" or "base" refers to the end closer to the operator along the length axis of the insertion section of the EUS when the operator is using the endoscope.

[0035] An ultrasound endoscope can be equipped with an ultrasound probe and an endoscopic observation module at its distal end for acquiring ultrasound and optical images. The endoscopic observation module typically includes a camera module and an illumination module. The illumination module provides illumination to the imaging area of ​​the camera module, facilitating image acquisition. However, in practical applications, it has been found that blood easily contaminates the endoscopic observation module when using an ultrasound endoscope, affecting imaging quality. Specifically, the camera module may include a camera window and a camera lens. The camera window protects the camera lens, and the camera can image the imaging area through the camera window. Blood residue on the camera window will cause blurred or obstructed images, significantly reducing imaging quality.

[0036] In view of this, the present invention provides an ultrasonic endoscope and its tip. The ultrasonic endoscope and its tip provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, a tip of an ultrasonic endoscope is provided, which can be applied to any suitable ultrasonic endoscope, particularly suitable for ultrasonic endoscopes designed for small-cavity scenarios, requiring a high degree of tip diameter reduction, and where it is difficult to install water / air nozzles (e.g., ultrasonic bronchoscopes). Therefore, according to another aspect of the invention, an ultrasonic endoscope is provided. This ultrasonic endoscope can be, for example, an ultrasonic bronchoscope, but in embodiments not shown, it can also be other ultrasonic endoscopes suitable for small-cavity endoscopic diagnosis and treatment.

[0038] See Figure 1 The ultrasonic endoscope 1 may include an insertion section 10, an operating section 20, and a light guide section 40. The insertion section 10 can be directly connected to the operating section 20. From distal to proximal, the insertion section 10 may be provided with a head end 11, a bend 12, and an insertion tube 13, which can be connected to the operating section 20. The operating section 20 and the light guide section 40 can be connected via a flexible light guide tube 30, which may include a flexible tubular structure and may contain illumination optical fibers, signal cables, etc. The light guide section 40 can serve as an interface module with external devices; for example, it may be provided with a light guide interface and a signal interface. Light emitted from the light source can enter the endoscope body through the light guide interface and be transmitted through various forms of light guides, such as optical fiber bundles, which are disposed within the light guide section 40, the flexible light guide tube 30, the operating section 20, and the insertion section 10, to be emitted at the head end 11. The light guide section 40 can be connected to an ultrasonic connector 60 via a cable 50, which can be used for electrical connection with the ultrasonic host. Understandable, Figure 1 The ultrasonic endoscope shown is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit this application. In embodiments not shown in this application, ultrasonic endoscopes may also have other structural forms. For example, in some embodiments, the light source may be integrated into the endoscope body, such as into the head end 11, the operating part 20, or the light guide part 40.

[0039] See Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4The head end 11 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 may include a head end base 100 and an ultrasonic probe 200. The head end base 100 may have a proximal end 110 and a distal end 120 in a first direction (direction XX in the figure). The proximal end 110 may include a portion of the head end base 100 near the proximal end, and the distal end 120 may include a portion of the head end base 100 near the distal end. The proximal end 110 and the distal end 120 may be interconnected, for example, the distal end of the proximal end 110 may be connected to the proximal end of the distal end 120. The proximal end 110 and the distal end 120 may be separately processed and then connected together by welding, snap-fitting, threaded connection or any other suitable method, or they may be integrally formed as two parts. The radial dimension of the proximal end 110 may be larger than the radial dimension of the distal end 120. The radial dimension may refer to the dimension in a plane perpendicular to the first direction XX, for example, it may include the dimension in a second direction (direction YY in the figure) and a third direction (direction ZZ in the figure). The first direction XX, the second direction YY, and the third direction ZZ may be mutually perpendicular. A base end face 130 may be formed at the junction of the proximal end 110 and the distal end 120. See also Figure 2 Based on the premise that the radial dimension of the proximal end 110 is larger than the radial dimension of the distal end 120, the base end face 130 can be in the form of a stepped surface similar to that between the proximal end 110 and the distal end 120. See Figure 3 The distal end 120 may have a distal side 121 away from the base end face 130, and the ultrasound probe 200 may be connected to the distal side 121.

[0040] A camera window 131 may be provided on the base end face 130. As described above, the camera window 131 in the endoscope observation module may be provided on the base end face 130. A camera may be installed inside the proximal end face 110. Specifically, the camera may be provided on the proximal end face 110 corresponding to the interior of the base end face 130. The base end face 130 may be part of the outer surface of the head end face 100. The base end face 130 may face the object to be imaged. The camera may image through the camera window 131.

[0041] See Figure 5 and Figure 6The distal end 120 may have a guide groove 122 for discharging the medical device. The insertion portion 11 typically has a device channel, and the guide groove 122 can be considered part of the device channel, or connected to the distal end of the device channel. In this application, for ease of description, the example of the guide groove 122 being connected to the distal end of the device channel will be used. The proximal end of the device channel may extend to the operating portion 20, where an device channel inlet may be formed. The distal end of the device channel may extend to the headstock 100, where a device channel outlet may be formed. The device channel can communicate with the guide groove 122 through the device channel outlet. Specifically, the instrument channel may include a connecting channel 111 that extends through the proximal end 110 and extends along a first direction XX (specifically, having a length component in the first direction XX). The connecting channel 111 may include a connecting channel segment 1112 and an outlet segment 1113 from the proximal end to the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113. An instrument channel outlet 1111 may be formed at the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113. The instrument channel outlet 1111 may communicate with the guide groove 122. A medical device may be inserted into the instrument channel through the instrument channel inlet, pass through the connecting channel segment 1112 and the outlet segment 1113, and extend from the instrument channel outlet 1111 to the guide groove 122. Guided by the guide groove 122, the device can reach the target position.

[0042] See Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The guide groove 122 may have an outlet 123 that opens towards the second direction YY (specifically, the side with the base end face 130) and extends from the base end face 130 towards the distal end side 121. The second direction YY is perpendicular to the first direction XX. The medical device guided by the guide groove 122 can extend out through the outlet 123. For example, at least the end of the outlet 123 on the guide groove 122 can be located within the field of view of the camera module. That is, the distal end of the medical device can appear in the imaging area of ​​the camera in the camera module before or when it extends out of the outlet 123 of the guide groove 122, thus avoiding the occurrence of blind spots of the device.

[0043] For example, the distal end portion 120 may have a top surface in the second direction YY, and the guide groove 122 may be formed by recessing inward from the top surface. The base end side of the distal end portion 120 may also have a recessed portion formed by recessing inward from the top surface, the recessed portion being formed at the outer edge of the guide groove 122 and disposed opposite to the lighting module along the first direction XX. The recessed portion can avoid the illumination light from the lighting module, preventing the top surface of the distal end portion 120 from blocking the illumination light emitted by the lighting module.

[0044] The base edge 133 of the outlet 123 may be located on the base face 130. The base edge 133 of the outlet 123 may be the intersection line of the outlet 123 and the base face 130. It is understood that the extension of the outlet 123 toward the distal side 121 does not limit the outlet 123 to extending to the distal side 121 of the distal end 120; the outlet 123 may extend to any suitable length in the first direction XX. Figure 6 As shown, for ease of understanding, the outlet 123 is roughly marked with dashed lines in the figure. The actual outline of the outlet 123 can be formed by the base edge 133 and the outermost edge of the guide groove 122. It is not limited to the outlet 123 being straight along the first direction XX. In some embodiments, the outlet 123 can be at least partially curved along the first direction XX. For example, the outer edge of the guide groove 122 and the base surface 130 can intersect. The intersecting solid portion can be considered as two points, and the line connecting these two points can form an intersection line. This intersection line can be considered as the base edge 133 of the outlet 123.

[0045] Define the plane perpendicular to the second direction YY as the first reference plane. The first reference plane can be a plane parallel to the first direction XX and parallel to the third direction ZZ, as shown in the example. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, Figure 4 A plane parallel to the paper can be the first reference plane. The projection of the camera window 131 onto the first reference plane lies at least partially within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX. See also Figure 4 The statement that "the projection of the camera window 131 onto the first reference surface is at least partially located within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX" means that the projection of the camera window 131 onto the first reference surface falls partially or entirely within the projection of the base edge 133 onto the first reference surface in the first direction XX. In this embodiment, to enhance the attraction of negative pressure on the entire surface of the camera window 131, the projection of the camera window 131 onto the first reference surface is entirely located within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX.

[0046] The proximal end of the outlet 123 intersects directly with the base end face 130. The intersection point can be the base edge 133, meaning there is no obstruction between the proximal end of the outlet 123 and the base end face 130. See details. Figure 7 When an external negative pressure generating device is connected, negative pressure can be formed in the instrument channel, thereby forming negative pressure near the outlet 123. Since the proximal end of the outlet 123 directly intersects with the base end face 130, the negative pressure near the outlet 123 can directly act on the base end face 130 and form an attractive force on the base end face 130. Figure 7An exemplary illustration shows the airflow near the outlet 123 under negative pressure suction. This airflow can attract contaminants on the base surface 130, such as blood contaminated with the camera window 131 on the base surface 130. Exemplarily, the operating unit 20 may also include a suction channel for connection to an external suction pump. This suction channel can communicate with an instrument channel. When the external suction pump operates, negative pressure is generated within the suction channel and the instrument channel, thereby attracting contaminants on the base surface 130, as described above, such as blood contaminated with the camera window 131 on the base surface 130. After being attracted into the instrument channel, the blood can enter the suction channel through the instrument channel and then be discharged to the outside through the suction channel. The suction interface of the suction channel can be located on the operating unit 20 or on the light guide unit 40; this application does not limit this. Based on this, the projection of the camera window 131 toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX. There is basically no structural obstruction between the camera window 131 and the base edge 133. Therefore, the negative pressure near the base edge 133 can form a better attraction effect on the surface of the camera window 131, and the effect of attracting and cleaning the contaminants on the camera window 131 can be better.

[0047] For example, the base end face 130 can be arranged at any angle to the first direction XX. For instance, the angle between the base end face 130 and the first direction XX can be no less than 90° and no more than 110°. Preferably, the angle between the base end face 130 and the first direction XX can be 100°. When the angle between the base end face 130 and the first direction XX is less than 90°, the imaging field of view of the camera window 131 on the base end face 130 will be blocked by the head end seat 100. When the angle between the base end face 130 and the first direction XX is greater than 110°, the base end face 130 is too far from the center of the airflow area attracted by the negative pressure at the outlet 123, resulting in a poor attraction effect of negative pressure on the area corresponding to the outlet 123 on the base end face 130. When the angle between the base end face 130 and the first direction XX is between 90° and 110°, the imaging field of view of the camera window 131 on the base end face 130 can be avoided from being blocked by the head end seat 100. Furthermore, on this basis, the suction effect on the area corresponding to the outlet 123 on the base end face 130 can be better achieved by negative pressure suction.

[0048] Understandably, a negative pressure is created within the instrument channel, thereby creating a negative pressure near the outlet 123. This negative pressure is used to suction out contaminants from the camera window 131. This process can be performed during the use of the tip 11, meaning the suction process can be conducted during the procedure. Therefore, when blood or other contaminants adhere to the camera window 131, suction can be performed as needed to remove the contaminants from its surface, making the procedure simple and efficient.

[0049] The head end portion 11 provided by the present invention has a guide groove 122 formed on the distal end portion 120 of the head end base 100. The guide groove 122 has an outlet 123. A negative pressure attraction can be formed near the outlet 123 by an external negative pressure generating device. The base edge 133 of the outlet 123 is located on the base surface 130. Therefore, the negative pressure attraction formed near the base edge 133 can extend to the base surface 130. Furthermore, since the camera window 131 is located on the base surface 130, and the projection of the camera window 131 toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the area corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX, there is basically no structural obstruction between the camera window 131 and the base edge 133. Therefore, the negative pressure attraction near the base edge 133 can effectively remove blood and other contaminants adhering to the surface of the camera window 131. This can clean the contaminants on the surface of the camera window 131 and avoid poor image quality due to blood contamination of the camera window 131, thereby maintaining a better imaging effect. The tip 11 is used in an ultrasonic endoscope 1. Especially for ultrasonic endoscopes 1 such as ultrasonic bronchoscopes, which have high requirements for the tip diameter, the contaminants (such as blood) attached to the surface of the camera window 131 can be cleaned by suction, avoiding the problem of poor imaging effect due to contaminants such as blood attached to the camera window 131. Moreover, the above purpose can be achieved without water or air nozzles and other structures. The tip 11 occupies less space, which is conducive to saving space and meets the requirements of ultrasonic endoscopes such as ultrasonic bronchoscopes for the tip diameter.

[0050] The illumination module in the endoscopic observation module may include an illumination window 132 and a light guide. The illumination window 132 protects the light guide, and the light emitted by the light guide can illuminate the imaging area of ​​the camera module through the illumination window 132. The number of illumination windows 132 can be arbitrary; for example, there may be one, two, or any other number of illumination windows 132. In narrow cavities such as the bronchi, when the camera window 131 is contaminated with blood or other contaminants, the illumination window 132 is also more likely to become contaminated with blood or other contaminants. When there is blood residue on the illumination window 132 of the illumination module, it will result in insufficient illumination of the imaging area by the camera module, leading to poor imaging results.

[0051] In one embodiment of this application, see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4The illumination window 132 can be disposed on the base end face 130, and the projection of the illumination window 132 toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base end edge 133 in the first direction XX (wherein, when the number of illumination windows 132 includes at least two, the projection of the illumination window 132 toward the first reference surface can be the sum of the projections of the at least two illumination windows 132 toward the first reference surface respectively). At least a portion of the light guide can be installed inside the proximal end face 110. Specifically, at least a portion of the light guide can be disposed on the proximal end face 110 corresponding to the interior of the base end face 130. At least a portion of the light guide can transmit emitted light, and the emitted light can illuminate the imaging area of ​​the camera window 131 through the illumination window 132. Similar to the camera window 131, since the illumination window 132 is disposed on the base end face 130, the negative pressure suction near the outlet 123 can attract contaminants on the surface of the illumination window 132, such as blood contaminated with the illumination window 132. As mentioned above, the negative pressure near the outlet 123 can create a better attraction effect on the area corresponding to the base edge 133. Therefore, when the projection of the illumination window 132 toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the area corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX, a better attraction effect can be created on the surface of the illumination window 132. The effect of attracting and cleaning the contaminants on the illumination window 132 can be better, avoiding the problem of insufficient illumination during shooting due to blood on the illumination window 132, thereby improving the overall imaging effect during shooting.

[0052] For example, the lighting window 132 may include a first lighting window 1321 and a second lighting window 1322. The projection of the first lighting window 1321 toward the first reference surface is defined as the first window projection, and the projection of the second lighting window 1322 toward the first reference surface is defined as the second window projection. At least a portion of at least one of the first window projection and the second window projection may be located in the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX.

[0053] It is understood that at least a portion of at least one of the first window projection and the second window projection may be located within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX. Alternatively, at least a portion of both the first and second window projections may be located within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX, in which case a portion of the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322 may be located within the region corresponding to the outlet 123 on the base surface 130. Alternatively, one of the first and second window projections may be located within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX, while the other is located outside the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX. Having at least a portion of at least one of the first and second window projections located within the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX ensures that when negative pressure is formed near the outlet 123 to attract pollutants, a good attraction effect can be achieved on at least a portion of at least one of the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322, ensuring that at least one of the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322 can provide sufficient illumination.

[0054] For example, see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first illumination window 1321 and the second illumination window 1322 can be symmetrically arranged about the camera window 131. The projections of the first window and the second window can be located at opposite ends of the base edge 133 in the third direction ZZ, so that both the first window projection and the second window projection can be at least partially located within the corresponding area of ​​the base edge 133 in the first direction XX. The third direction ZZ is perpendicular to the first direction XX and the second direction YY, respectively. When the illumination window 132 includes the first illumination window 1321 and the second illumination window 1322 symmetrically arranged about the camera window 131, the first illumination window 1321 and the second illumination window 1322 can provide more uniform illumination for the image formed by the camera window 131. When both the first window projection and the second window projection are at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base edge 133 in the first direction XX, the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322 are at least partially located in the region corresponding to the outlet 123 on the base surface 130. Thus, when a negative pressure is formed near the outlet 123 for suction, a good suction effect can be achieved on blood and other contaminants on the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322. This ensures that the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322, which are symmetrically arranged about the camera window 131, can provide sufficient illumination, and the first lighting window 1321 and the second lighting window 1322 as a whole can provide better uniform illumination.

[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, see Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The proximal end portion 110 extends along a first direction XX (i.e., has a length component in the first direction XX) and has a connecting channel 111 communicating with the guide groove 122. The connecting channel 111 may be part of the instrument channel in the insertion portion 10. The outlet of the connecting channel 111 may be located at the junction of the proximal end portion 110 and the distal end portion 120 to form an instrument channel outlet 1111. The connecting channel 111 may include a preceding channel segment 1112 and an outlet segment 1113 from the proximal end to the distal end. The instrument channel outlet 1111 may be formed at the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113, and the instrument channel outlet 1111 may communicate with the guide groove 122. In the first direction XX, the instrument channel outlet 1111 is closer to the base end side relative to the base end edge 133 of the outlet 123. A transition surface 140 may also be formed at the junction of the proximal end portion 110 and the distal end portion 120. The transition surface 140 may connect the base end edge 133 and the top edge 1111a of the instrument channel outlet 1111. From the top edge 1111a of the instrument channel outlet 1111 along the second direction YY toward the opening direction of the guide outlet 123, a transition surface 140, a base edge 133 and a base surface 130 can be arranged in sequence. When a negative pressure is generated within the instrument channel by an external negative pressure generator, the instrument channel outlet 1111 typically experiences a strong negative pressure. By providing a transition surface 140 between the top edge 1111a and the base edge 133 of the instrument channel outlet 1111, the base edge 133 can be brought closer to the instrument channel outlet 1111, forming a smoother suction flow path. This results in a stronger negative pressure near the base edge 133, creating a stronger suction effect on the corresponding area on the base surface 130. Furthermore, blood and other contaminants in the corresponding area on the base surface 130 can move towards the base edge 133 under suction, and after passing through the base edge 133 to the transition surface 140, they enter the connecting channel 111 from the top edge 1111a of the instrument channel outlet 1111. The blood and other contaminants entering the connecting channel 111 can then be further suctioned out. Therefore, the transition surface 140 can guide the movement of blood and other contaminants under negative pressure suction, enhancing the suction effect.

[0056] For example, see details. Figure 10 The transition surface 140 and the extended surface of the base end surface 130 may have an included angle α, where 0° < α ≤ 60°. The included angle α between the transition surface 140 and the extended surface of the base end surface 130 can be, for example, 0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 45°, or 60°. (See also...) Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown in the figure, the base edge 133 can be considered to bulge towards the distal end, meaning the transition surface 140 slopes inward from the base edge 133 towards the connecting channel 111. This transition surface 140 provides better guidance for the movement of blood and other contaminants under negative pressure near the outlet 123. Specifically, when the included angle α is 0° < α ≤ 30°, the base edge 133 can be brought closer to the instrument channel outlet 1111, resulting in a stronger attraction near the base edge 133. Simultaneously, a smooth transition between the base surface 130 and the transition surface 140 facilitates the formation of a strong attraction on the base surface 130 and better guides the fluid flow towards the instrument channel outlet 1111.

[0057] For example, see details. Figure 10 A minimum distance S can exist between the camera window 131 and the base edge 133, where 2mm ≥ S > 0mm. For example, the minimum distance S between the camera window 131 and the base edge 133 can be 2mm, 1mm, or 0.5mm. The closer the distance to the base edge 133, the stronger the suction effect formed by the negative pressure near the outlet 123. When the distance between the camera window 131 and the base edge 133 is too large, the suction effect of the negative pressure near the outlet 123 on contaminants such as blood on the surface of the camera window 131 weakens. When the minimum distance S between the camera window 131 and the base edge 133 satisfies 2mm ≥ S > 0mm, the suction effect of the negative pressure near the base edge 133 on contaminants such as blood on the surface of the camera window 131 is better.

[0058] For example, see details. Figure 9A connecting channel 111 extends along the first direction XX within the proximal end 110. The connecting channel 111 may be sequentially provided with a front connecting channel section 1112 and an outlet section 1113 in the first direction XX. The front connecting channel section 1112 is for the front pipe of the clamp channel to pass through. The end of the outlet section 1113 near the front connecting channel section 1112 is defined as the base end 1113a, and the end away from the front connecting channel section 1112 is defined as the distal end 1113b. The distal end 1113b is connected to the guide groove 122. The instrument channel outlet 1111 can be formed at the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113, and the top edge 1111a of the instrument channel outlet 1111 can also be formed at the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113. Therefore, the top of the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113 can form the top edge 1111a of the instrument channel outlet 1111. In other words, the top of the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113 can be connected to the transition surface 140. From the base end 1113a to the distal end 1113b, the diameter of the outlet segment 1113 can gradually increase. It can be understood that the outlet segment 1113 can be funnel-shaped along the first direction XX, and the diameter of the distal end 1113b of the outlet segment 1113 (diameter L2 in the figure) can be larger than the diameter of the base end 1113a of the outlet segment 1113 (diameter L1 in the figure). This allows the top of the distal end 1113b of the outlet section 1113 to be closer to the base edge 133, which further shortens the distance between the negative pressure point of the suction outlet (i.e., the instrument channel outlet 1111) and the base edge 133, and strengthens the attraction on the area on the base surface 130 corresponding to the base edge 133 (e.g., the camera window 131 and the lighting window 132).

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, see Figure 3From the base face 130 toward the distal side 121, the outlet 123 has a suction section 1231, a transition section 1232, and an outlet section 1233 arranged sequentially. The suction section 1231 has the largest opening size in the third direction ZZ, which is perpendicular to the first direction XX and the second direction YY. The opening size referred to here can be the opening size in the third direction ZZ. The outlet section 1233 of the outlet 123 can be designed according to the application scenario of the ultrasound endoscope 1 and the medical device to be exported. The suction section 1231 is closer to the base face 130 than the transition section 1232 and the outlet section 1233. The intersection of the outlet 123 and the base face 130 is the same as the intersection of the suction section 1231 and the base face 130. In other words, the intersection of the suction section 1231 and the base face 130 forms the base edge 133 of the outlet 123. The transition segment 1232 can connect the leading segment 1233 and the attracting segment 1231, so the transition segment 1232 can be designed into any suitable form as needed, such as a straight segment, an arc segment, or other suitable forms. Since the attracting segment 1231 is closer to the base end face 130, when the opening size of the attracting segment 1231 is at its maximum in the third direction ZZ, the attraction coverage area on the base end face 130 is wider (i.e., there is more area with suction on the base end face 130), and the attraction effect is better. This can further enhance the effect of attracting the corresponding area on the base end face 130 through the negative pressure near the base edge 133.

[0060] For example, the transition section 1232 can be a straight section, and the opening size of the transition section 1232 can be equal to the opening size of the suction section 1231. The transition section 1232 is located between the suction section 1231 and the outlet section 1233, and can be used to realize the routine suction function of blood, mucus, etc. in the cavity. When the opening size of the transition section 1232 is equal to the opening size of the suction section 1231, a good suction coverage range can be maintained.

[0061] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0062] For ease of description, relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used here to describe the regional positional relationship of one or more components or features shown in the figures to other components or features. It should be understood that relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figure but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.

[0063] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0064] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0065] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention to the scope of the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of the present invention, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A tip of an ultrasonic endoscope, characterized in that, The device includes a headstock and an ultrasound probe. The headstock has a proximal end and a distal end in a first direction. The radial dimension of the proximal end is larger than that of the distal end. A base end face is formed at the connection between the proximal end and the distal end. A camera window is provided on the base end face. The distal end has a distal side away from the base end face. The ultrasound probe is connected to the distal side. The distal end is formed with a guide groove for discharging a medical device. The guide groove has an opening on one side facing a second direction and an outlet extending from the base end face toward the distal end side. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The medical device guided by the guide groove extends out of the outlet. The base edge of the outlet is located on the base end face. The surface perpendicular to the second direction is defined as a first reference surface. The projection of the camera window toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base edge in the first direction. There is no structural obstruction between the camera window and the base edge.

2. The head end portion according to claim 1, characterized in that, An instrument channel outlet is formed at the connection between the proximal end and the distal end, and the instrument channel outlet communicates with the guide groove; in the second direction, the top edge of the instrument channel outlet and the camera window are located on two opposite sides of the base edge.

3. The head end portion according to claim 1, characterized in that, An illumination window is provided on the base end surface, and the projection of the illumination window toward the first reference surface is at least partially located in the region corresponding to the edge of the base end in the first direction.

4. The head end portion according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lighting window includes a first lighting window and a second lighting window. The projection of the first lighting window onto the first reference surface is defined as the first window projection, and the projection of the second lighting window onto the first reference surface is defined as the second window projection. At least a portion of at least one of the first window projection and the second window projection is located in the region corresponding to the base edge in the first direction.

5. The head end portion according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first lighting window and the second lighting window are symmetrically arranged about the camera window. The projections of the first window and the second window are respectively located at the two ends of the base edge in the third direction, so that the projections of the first window and the second window are at least partially located in the region corresponding to the base edge in the first direction; the third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, respectively.

6. The head end portion according to claim 1, characterized in that, The proximal end has a connecting channel extending along the first direction, communicating with the guide groove. The outlet of the connecting channel is located at the connection between the proximal end and the distal end to form an instrument channel outlet. In the first direction, the instrument channel outlet is closer to the base end side relative to the base end edge. A transition surface is also formed at the connection between the proximal end and the distal end, and the transition surface connects the base end edge and the top edge of the instrument channel outlet.

7. The head end portion according to claim 6, characterized in that, The transition surface and the extended surface of the base end surface have an included angle α, where 0° < α ≤ 60°.

8. The head end portion according to claim 1, characterized in that, The minimum distance S between the camera window and the base edge is 2mm ≥ S > 0mm.

9. The head end portion according to claim 1, characterized in that, The proximal end has a connecting channel extending along the first direction and communicating with the guide groove. The connecting channel has a front connecting channel section and an outlet section arranged sequentially in the first direction. The front connecting channel section is for the clamping channel front pipe to pass through. The end of the outlet section closer to the front connecting channel section is defined as the base end and the end farther away from the front connecting channel section is defined as the distal end. The distal end is connected to the guide groove. From the base end to the distal end, the diameter of the outlet section gradually increases.

10. The head end portion according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, From the base end face toward the distal end, the outlet has an attraction section, a transition section and an outlet section arranged in sequence, wherein the attraction section has the largest opening size in the third direction, and the third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, respectively.

11. The head end portion according to claim 10, characterized in that, The transition section is a straight section, and in the third direction, the opening size of the transition section is equal to the opening size of the attraction section.

12. An ultrasonic endoscope, characterized in that, It includes an insertion portion, the insertion portion including a head end portion as described in any one of claims 1-11.

13. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 12, characterized in that, The ultrasonic endoscope is an ultrasonic bronchoscope.

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