Ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system
By designing an external photoacoustic excitation component on the outside of the ultrasound probe, the problems of large structural modifications and difficult assembly of the laparoscopy were solved, achieving high-resolution imaging and simplified operation, improving diagnostic accuracy and saving resources.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SONOSCAPE MEDICAL CORP
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-21
AI Technical Summary
When integrating photoacoustic imaging components into ultrasound probes in existing laparoscopic procedures, significant structural modifications and assembly difficulties result in complex operations and a serious waste of medical resources.
Design an ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy system, in which the photoacoustic excitation component is externally connected to the outside of the ultrasound probe and can be detachably connected by means of threaded connection, snap-fit, or adhesive. Combining ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging modes, it achieves high-resolution, high-contrast imaging.
It improves the accuracy of in vivo diagnosis, simplifies the assembly process, reduces the waste of medical resources, has a wider range of applications, provides a better user experience, and is easy to clean and disinfect.
Smart Images

Figure CN224140791U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, specifically to an ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope and an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system. Background Technology
[0002] Compared with traditional open surgery, laparoscopic surgery has the advantages of smaller incisions, less blood loss, and faster recovery, and is now widely used in surgical treatment.
[0003] In some existing laparoscopic systems, photoacoustic imaging components are integrated within the ultrasound probe to enable the laparoscopy to achieve multiple imaging modes. However, integrating photoacoustic imaging components within the ultrasound probe requires assembling the components inside the probe itself, which significantly alters the probe's structure and is very difficult to assemble. Utility Model Content
[0004] To at least partially address the problems existing in the prior art, according to one aspect of the present invention, an ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy is provided. The ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy includes an insertion section and a head section. The head section includes a photoacoustic excitation assembly and an ultrasound probe with a housing; the ultrasound probe is connected to the distal end of the insertion section, and the photoacoustic excitation assembly is connected to the outer side of the housing.
[0005] The ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy provided by this invention can realize ultrasound, photoacoustic, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging, thereby achieving high-resolution, high-contrast, and high-sensitivity structural and functional imaging of tissues at greater depths, greatly improving the accuracy of in vivo diagnosis. Moreover, in this ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy, the photoacoustic excitation component is externally connected to the ultrasound probe, allowing the ultrasound probe to be more closely similar in structure to existing ultrasound probes with almost no modification. Externally connecting the photoacoustic excitation component to the outer shell of the ultrasound probe simplifies the connection and overall assembly. For practical applications requiring photoacoustic imaging, the photoacoustic excitation component can be installed preoperatively. This ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy allows for the decision of whether to connect the photoacoustic excitation component to the ultrasound probe based on clinical needs, broadening its applicability and preventing waste of medical resources.
[0006] For example, the photoacoustic excitation assembly includes an optical window housing and a first housing, the optical window housing being connected to the first housing, the housing including an acoustic window housing and a second housing, the acoustic window housing being connected to the second housing, wherein the optical window housing is abutted against the acoustic window housing from the side, and at least a portion of the second housing is surrounded by the first housing.
[0007] For example, the first housing is detachably connected to the second housing.
[0008] For example, a threaded connection portion is provided on the first housing, and a threaded mating portion is provided on the second housing. Fasteners are inserted through the threaded connection portion and the threaded mating portion so that the first housing can be detachably connected to the second housing.
[0009] For example, the photoacoustic excitation assembly includes an isolator fixedly connected to a first housing, and the isolator, the light window housing, and the first housing enclose a sealed receiving cavity.
[0010] For example, the spacer fits into the second housing.
[0011] For example, the first housing and the second housing are snap-fitted together.
[0012] For example, the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy also includes a connector with a snap-fit part and a snap-fit mating part on the second housing. Through the engagement of the snap-fit part and the snap-fit mating part, the connector is snapped to the second housing and the first housing is located between the connector and the second housing.
[0013] For example, the snap-fit part includes a foot and a support part, one end of the support part is connected to the connector and the other end is connected to the foot, and the snap-fit mating part includes a snap-fit groove, into which the foot snaps into the snap-fit groove to achieve the engagement of the snap-fit part and the snap-fit mating part.
[0014] For example, the snap-fit portion includes a first snap-fit portion located at the distal end of the connector and a second snap-fit portion located at the proximal end of the connector, and the snap-fit mating portion includes a first snap-fit mating portion and a second snap-fit mating portion. The first snap-fit mating portion mates with the first snap-fit portion, and the second snap-fit mating portion mates with the second snap-fit portion. The first snap-fit portion and the second snap-fit portion limit the first housing in the axial direction along the head end.
[0015] For example, the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy also includes a light guide that is detachably connected to the outside of the insertion portion and whose distal end is connected to the photoacoustic excitation assembly.
[0016] For example, the photoacoustic excitation component is bonded and fixed to the ultrasonic probe.
[0017] For example, the light window housing and the sound window housing are bonded and fixed together.
[0018] For example, a light window structure is provided between the first housing and the second housing, with a first side of the light window structure connected to the first housing and a second side of the light window structure adjacent to the first side connected to the light window housing.
[0019] For example, the third side of the light window structure, opposite to the first side, is bonded to the sound window housing.
[0020] For example, the third side of the light window structure, opposite to the first side, is bonded to the second housing.
[0021] For example, the second side is bonded and fixed to the light window housing.
[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system is provided. The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system includes an ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit, a photoacoustic excitation light source, and any of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopes described above. The ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit is connected to the photoacoustic excitation light source, and the photoacoustic excitation light source is connected to the photoacoustic excitation assembly via a light guide. The ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit is connected to the insertion part via an ultrasound connector.
[0023] This utility model description introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model 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.
[0024] The advantages and features of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0025] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this invention, are provided for understanding the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings,
[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] Figure 2 This is a partial bottom view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A partial top view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy device is shown.
[0029] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A partial side view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy device is shown.
[0030] Figure 5 for Figure 2 The cross-sectional view shown is an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy.
[0031] Figure 6 This is a partial perspective view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the photoacoustic excitation assembly and a portion of the light guide.
[0032] Figure 7 for Figure 6An exploded view of a portion of the ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy procedure is shown.
[0033] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The exploded view of a portion of the ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy is shown.
[0035] Figure 10 This is a partial perspective view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The top view of the ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy is shown.
[0037] Figure 12 for Figure 10 An exploded view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy system is shown.
[0038] Figure 13 for Figure 10 The cross-sectional view shown is an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy.
[0039] Figure 14 This is a partial bottom view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] Figure 15 for Figure 14 The top view of the ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy is shown.
[0041] Figure 16 for Figure 14 The side view of the ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy is shown.
[0042] Figure 17 for Figure 14 The exploded view of the ultrasound-photoacoustic combined laparoscopy system shown is shown, where the light guide is not shown;
[0043] Figure 18 for Figure 14 The sectional view shown is a combination of ultrasound and photoacoustic laparoscopy; and
[0044] Figure 19 This is a partial schematic diagram of a light guide according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] The above figures include the following reference numerals:
[0046] 100. Ultrasonic-photoacoustic composite laparoscope; 101. Head end; 102. Insertion part; 103. Operating part; 104. Light guide; 105. Ultrasonic connector; 106. Puncture groove; 107. Indicating light window; 110. Ultrasonic probe; 111. Housing; 1111. Acoustic window housing; 1112. Second housing; 11122. Snap-fit part; 11122a. First snap-fit part; 11122b. Second snap-fit part; 112. Ultrasonic transducer; 120. Photoacoustic excitation assembly; 121. Light window housing; 1211. Protrusion; 1212. First light window; 12121. First inclined surface; 1213. Second light window; 12131. Second inclined surface; 122. First housing; 1221. Mounting hole; 123. Isolator; 124. Receiving cavity; 125. 1251 Connector; 12511 Snap-fit part; 12512 Foot; 12513 Support part; 1251a First snap-fit part; 1251b Second snap-fit part; 126 Optical window structural component; 1261 First side; 1262 Second side; 12621 Recess; 1263 Third side; 1264 First structural component; 12641 First through hole; 1265 Second structural component; 12651 Second through hole; 130 Cavity; 140 Fiber bundle; 141 First fiber bundle segment; 1411 First sub-fiber; 14111 First fixing component; 142 Second fiber bundle segment; 1421 Second sub-fiber; 14211 Second fixing component; 150 Fixing ring; 200 Ultrasonic-photoacoustic main unit; 300 Photoacoustic excitation light source; 400 Fastener. Detailed Implementation
[0047] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the present invention, which may be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion with the present invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.
[0048] According to one aspect of this invention, an ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy is provided. This laparoscopy can have a variety of imaging modes, supporting ultrasound imaging, photoacoustic imaging, and ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging, which helps improve the accuracy of disease diagnosis. The ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy can be applied to any suitable imaging system, including but not limited to ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging systems. Therefore, according to another aspect of this invention, an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system is provided.
[0049] For ease of description, the distal end mentioned below refers to the end of the ultrasound-photoacoustic laparoscopy that is closer to the object being observed when the operator is using the ultrasound-photoacoustic laparoscopy; the proximal end mentioned below refers to the end of the ultrasound-photoacoustic laparoscopy that is closer to the operator when the operator is using the ultrasound-photoacoustic laparoscopy.
[0050] See Figure 1 The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system may include an ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit 200, a photoacoustic excitation light source 300, and any of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopes 100 described below. The ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 may include a head end 101, an insertion part 102, and an operating part 103. The insertion part 102 may be connected between the head end 101 and the operating part 103, and the insertion part 102 and the head end 101 may be inserted into the body of the object to be observed. The head end 101 may include a photoacoustic excitation component and an ultrasound probe. The ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit 200 may be connected to the photoacoustic excitation light source 300, and the photoacoustic excitation light source 300 may be connected to the photoacoustic excitation component through a light guide 104. The photoacoustic excitation component mainly functions to transmit and emit photoacoustic excitation light. The photoacoustic excitation component typically includes a housing and a light window housing connected to the housing. The housing and the light window housing may be integral or separately connected. The housing may be formed on the main body of the photoacoustic excitation component, and the light window housing may be the part of the photoacoustic excitation component that participates in emitting photoacoustic excitation light. By aligning or connecting the light guide to the light window housing, the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted by the light guide can be emitted through the light window housing. For example, the distal end of the light guide can extend into the space enclosed by the housing of the photoacoustic excitation component, and the distal end of the light guide can be aligned with the light window housing. Thus, after the light guide transmits the photoacoustic excitation light to the light window housing, the photoacoustic excitation light is emitted to the outside from the light window housing. The operation unit 103 can be equipped with a smart button. By controlling the operation unit 103, a signal can be sent to the ultrasonic-photoacoustic host 200, thereby controlling the activation of the photoacoustic excitation light source 300. The photoacoustic excitation light source 300 can emit photoacoustic excitation light. The photoacoustic excitation light source 300 can be a pulsed laser light source, or a pulse-modulated light-emitting diode (LED) or laser diode (LD), or other suitable forms. The photoacoustic excitation light emitted by the photoacoustic excitation light source 300 can be transmitted to the photoacoustic excitation assembly via the light guide 104. The photoacoustic excitation assembly can irradiate the biological tissue with the photoacoustic excitation light. The biological tissue absorbs the light energy and undergoes thermal expansion. During the pulse intervals of the photoacoustic excitation light, it releases energy and contracts. This thermal expansion and contraction process generates high-frequency ultrasound waves. The ultrasound-photoacoustic host 200 can be connected to the insertion part 102 via the ultrasound connector 105. See also [reference needed]. Figure 5An ultrasound probe 110 can be connected to the distal end of the insertion part 102. An ultrasound transducer 112 can be installed inside the ultrasound probe 110, which can emit and receive ultrasound signals. The ultrasound transducer 112 receives ultrasound waves generated by biological tissue under the action of photoacoustic excitation light, and the generated ultrasound signals are transmitted to the ultrasound-photoacoustic host 200 to achieve photoacoustic imaging. In addition, the ultrasound-photoacoustic host 200 can generate ultrasound pulse signals, which can be transmitted to the ultrasound transducer 112 via the ultrasound connector 105. The ultrasound transducer 112 then generates ultrasound waves, which, after being transmitted to the biological tissue, will generate ultrasound echoes. The ultrasound transducer 112 receives the ultrasound echoes and transmits signals to the ultrasound-photoacoustic host, thereby achieving ultrasound imaging. Based on this, by controlling the emission sequence of the photoacoustic excitation light and the ultrasound pulse signals, ultrasound imaging and photoacoustic imaging can be performed alternately according to a preset time interval, achieving ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging. The preferred time interval is 1μs-100μs. Such a time interval is imperceptible to the human eye and does not produce motion artifacts. Visually, ultrasound imaging and photoacoustic imaging can be considered as simultaneous imaging. This ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 uses photoacoustic imaging to supplement ultrasound imaging, resulting in better overall imaging performance. It can achieve high-resolution, high-contrast, and high-sensitivity structural and functional imaging of biological tissues at greater depths.
[0051] See Figures 2-7The head end 101 may include a photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 and an ultrasonic probe 110 with a housing 111. The ultrasonic probe 110 can be connected to the distal end of the insertion part 102. A puncture groove 106 may also be provided on the head end 101 to guide the puncture trajectory of the puncture needle. The number and position of the puncture grooves 106 can be arbitrary; for example, puncture grooves 106 can be provided at the distal end of the head end 101 or at the proximal end of the head end 101. An indicator light window 107 may be provided near the puncture groove 106. The indicator light window 107 can emit an indicator laser, which shines outward within the observed object, such as onto the abdominal wall, to indicate the insertion position of the puncture needle. The indicator light window 107 can be in various suitable forms, such as a built-in LD. The ultrasonic transducer 112 can be disposed within the cavity formed by the housing 111. The ultrasonic probe 110 can be connected to the distal end of the insertion portion 102 by welding, snap-fit, threaded connection, or other suitable means. The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 can be connected to the outside of the housing 111. The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 can be detachably connected to the outside of the housing 111; for example, it can be connected by threaded connection, snap-fit, or other suitable means. Alternatively, it can be connected to the outside of the housing 111 by adhesive bonding. When the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is adhesively connected to the outside of the housing 111, it can still be disassembled by breaking the adhesive. Therefore, since the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is connected to the outside of the housing 111, it can be considered detachable. Furthermore, since the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is spaced apart from the ultrasonic transducer 112 by the housing 111, it can be considered that the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is externally located on the ultrasonic probe 110.
[0052] When using this ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100, if photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging are not required in clinical practice, the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be omitted or removed preoperatively. In this case, the ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100 can only achieve ultrasound imaging, and the parts inserted into the body of the patient are the insertion part 102 and the ultrasound probe 110, similar to common ultrasound laparoscopy. This does not change the operator's usage habits and provides a better user experience. Moreover, only the ultrasound probe 110 needs to be cleaned and disinfected postoperatively, saving medical resources. If photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging are required in clinical practice, the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be connected to the outside of the outer shell 111 preoperatively. This allows photoacoustic imaging to supplement ultrasound imaging, resulting in a better overall imaging effect. After the operation, the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be disassembled, and the ultrasound probe 110 and the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be cleaned, disinfected and sterilized respectively. This makes the overall cleaning and disinfection of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 simpler and more convenient, and the cleaning and disinfection effect is better, which is conducive to reuse.
[0053] Of course, in the ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system, when using the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100, it can also be used in conjunction with a rigid optical endoscope. The rigid optical endoscope and the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 can be inserted into the body of the observed object simultaneously. The optical imaging of the rigid optical endoscope facilitates the observation of the position and angle of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100, thereby allowing the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 to be inserted into the appropriate position at a predetermined angle. The optical imaging of the rigid optical endoscope can also observe the indicator laser of the indicator window 107, further ensuring that the puncture needle is inserted into the body of the observed object in the correct position.
[0054] The ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100 provided by this invention can realize ultrasound, photoacoustic, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging, thereby achieving high-resolution, high-contrast, and high-sensitivity structural and functional imaging of tissues at greater depths, greatly improving the accuracy of in vivo diagnosis. Moreover, in this ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100, the photoacoustic excitation component 120 is externally connected to the ultrasound probe 110, allowing the ultrasound probe 110 to more closely resemble the structure of existing ultrasound probes with almost no modification. Externally connecting the photoacoustic excitation component 120 to the outer shell 111 of the ultrasound probe 110 simplifies the connection and overall assembly. For practical applications requiring photoacoustic imaging, the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be installed preoperatively. This ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100 allows for flexibility in whether the photoacoustic excitation component 120 is connected to the ultrasound probe 110, broadening its applicability and preventing waste of medical resources.
[0055] For example, see Figure 5The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 may include a light window housing 121 and a first housing 122, with the light window housing 121 connected to the first housing 122. The light window housing 121 may include a transparent light window made of a non-metallic, fully transparent material, and the light window housing 121 can be designed in any number and form as needed. For example, the structure of the light window housing 121 can be designed as needed so that the photoacoustic excitation light passing through the light window housing 121 is refracted in a predetermined direction. The light window housing 121 can be connected to the first housing 122 by welding, snap-fitting, threaded connection, or other suitable methods. The housing 111 may include an acoustic window housing 1111 and a second housing 1112, with the acoustic window housing 1111 connected to the second housing 1112. Ultrasonic waves can pass through the acoustic window housing 1111. The acoustic window housing 1111 can be in the form of an acoustic lens or other acoustic elements that can converge or diverge sound waves. The acoustic window housing 1111 may include an acoustic window made of opaque silicone material. The acoustic window housing 1111 may be integrally formed with the second housing 1112, or it may be manufactured separately from the second housing 1112 and then connected together by welding, snap-fitting, threaded connection, or other suitable methods. The acoustic window housing 1111 and the second housing 1112 may together form the housing 111, and provide protection for the ultrasonic transducer 112 inside the cavity enclosed by the housing 111. The optical window housing 121 can be attached to the acoustic window housing 1111 from the side (i.e., the emitting surfaces of the optical window housing and the acoustic window housing face similar directions, and the non-emitting surfaces are attached to each other). The optical window housing 121 can be directly connected to the acoustic window housing 1111 through various forms such as adhesive or snap-fit, or it can be only tightly attached to the acoustic window housing 1111. The optical window housing 121 being attached to the acoustic window housing 1111 means that there is almost no gap between the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111, thus achieving good overall sealing. At least a portion of the second housing 1112 can be surrounded by the first housing 122. The optical window housing 121, the first housing 122, the acoustic window housing 1111, and the second housing 1112 can be enclosed to form a sealed cavity 130. The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 may include an isolator 123 located within the cavity 130. The isolator 123 may further divide the cavity 130 into a receiving cavity 124. That is, the isolator 123, the first housing 122, and the light window housing 121 can enclose and form the receiving cavity 124, which may be located within the cavity 130. The isolator 123 will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Since the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 needs to come into direct contact with human tissue and blood during use, the sealing of the tip 101 of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 is very important.Even without an isolator 123 within the cavity 130, the cavity 130 formed by the light window housing 121, the first housing 122, the acoustic window housing 1111, and the second housing 1112 can be sealed. This prevents external contamination of the internal structure of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 during use. The light guide 104 may include a bundle of optical fibers 140 extending into the cavity 130. The light guide 104 can extend into the cavity 130 through the mounting hole 1221 on the first housing 122, and the portion of the light guide 104 located within the cavity 130 may include the bundle of optical fibers 140. The sealed cavity 130 prevents the bundle of optical fibers 140 from being contaminated by the external environment. Furthermore, the light window housing 121, the first housing 122, the acoustic window housing 1111, and the second housing 1112 enclose and form a sealed cavity 130. When cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing the entire system, only the exterior needs to be cleaned and disinfected, which further simplifies and makes the cleaning and disinfection of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 simpler and more convenient.
[0056] Exemplarily, the first housing 122 is detachably connected to the second housing 1112. The first housing 122 can be detachably connected to the second housing 1112 by threaded connection, snap-fit, or other suitable means, which will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. The detachable connection of the first housing 122 to the second housing 1112 makes the disassembly of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 simpler. When photoacoustic imaging is not required, the preoperative disassembly of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is more convenient; when the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is involved in the detection of biological tissue, the postoperative disassembly of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 for separate cleaning and disinfection of the ultrasound probe 110 and the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is also more convenient.
[0057] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figures 2-7The first housing 122 may be provided with a threaded connection portion, and the second housing 1112 may be provided with a threaded mating portion. Fasteners 400 may pass through the threaded connection portion and the threaded mating portion, allowing the first housing 122 to be detachably connected to the second housing 1112. The first housing 122 may have any number of threaded connection portions, and the second housing 1112 may also have any number of threaded mating portions. For overall sealing considerations, the number of threaded connection portions on the first housing 122 and the number of threaded mating portions on the second housing 1112 can correspond, and the first housing 122 can be detachably connected to the second housing 1112 using the corresponding number of fasteners 400. Using a threaded connection to detachably connect the first housing 122 to the second housing 1112 simplifies the overall structure and makes it easier to implement. Furthermore, through reasonable dimensional design, after the first housing 122 is threadedly connected to the second housing 1112, the light window housing 121 can fit tightly against the sound window housing 1111. In this way, the ultrasound probe 110 and the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 are detachably connected only by fasteners 400, making the disassembly of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 simpler and more convenient, while the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 can have good sealing performance.
[0058] For example, see Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 may include an isolator 123, which is fixedly connected to the first housing 122. The isolator 123, the light window housing 121, and the first housing 122 can enclose and form a sealed accommodating cavity 124. That is, the isolator 123, together with the light window housing 121 and the first housing 122, forms the accommodating cavity 124 within the cavity 130, which can be considered as being located within the cavity 130. Since the isolator 123 is fixedly connected to the first housing 122, and the light window housing 121 is also connected to the first housing 122, the isolator 123, the first housing 122, and the light window housing 121 are integrally connected, allowing for disassembly of the entire assembly. Even after disassembly, the entire assembly still forms a sealed accommodating cavity 124, meaning that even after disassembly, the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 itself remains sealed. When using this ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100, after the connection between the photoacoustic excitation component 120 and the ultrasound probe 110 is disassembled, both the photoacoustic excitation component 120 and the ultrasound probe 110 can be cleaned and disinfected separately. The photoacoustic excitation component 120 itself has excellent sealing properties, making cleaning and disinfection simpler and more convenient. The connection and disassembly between the photoacoustic excitation component 120 and the ultrasound probe 110 are also simpler and more convenient.
[0059] For example, the spacer 123 can be fitted into the second housing 1112. When the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is connected to the ultrasound probe 110, the fit of the spacer 123 into the second housing 1112 can make the internal structure of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope 100 more compact, thereby further reducing the size of the overall device and making it more suitable for use in clinical surgery.
[0060] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figures 8-13 The first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 can be snap-fitted together. The first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 can be directly snap-fitted together; for example, the first housing 122 can be provided with a snap-fit part, and the second housing 1112 can be provided with a snap-fit mating part. By snapping the snap-fit part with the snap-fit mating part, the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 can be snap-fitted together. This simplifies the overall structure, and when the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 are directly snap-fitted together, the overall assembly is also simpler.
[0061] The first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 can also be indirectly connected by a snap-fit connection. For example, the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 may further include a connector 125, which may have a snap-fit portion 1251, and the second housing 1112 may have a snap-fit mating portion 11122. Through the engagement of the snap-fit portion 1251 and the snap-fit mating portion 11122, the connector 125 can be snapped onto the second housing 1112, and the first housing 122 can be located between the connector 125 and the second housing 1112. By engaging the connector 125 with the second housing 1112, the first housing 122 is effectively sandwiched between the connector 125 and the second housing 1112, thus achieving an indirect snap-fit connection between the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112. Whether directly or indirectly connected by snap-fit, the snap-fit connection between the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 makes the assembly and disassembly of the photoacoustic excitation component 120 and the ultrasound probe 110 in the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 simpler, easier to implement, and easier to operate. However, when the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 are directly snap-fit connected, the snap-fit part needs to be provided on the first housing 122, making it difficult to meet the dimensional requirements between the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112, thus making it difficult to guarantee the overall sealing performance. Therefore, the first housing 122 is indirectly connected to the second housing 1112 by snap-fit through the connector 125. The design of the connector 125 only needs to meet the requirements of snap-fit connection and sealing performance, allowing for a better overall dimensional fit and thus better sealing performance. The connector 125 may include a plastic component. Due to its low cost, the connector 125 can be disposable; that is, it can be disassembled by breaking the connector 125 to remove the snap-fit connection between it and the second housing 1112. Such a connector 125 only needs to meet the stability and sealing requirements of the snap-fit connection, meaning the connection between the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 can be more stable and have better sealing.
[0062] For example, see Figure 12 and Figure 13The snap-fit portion 1251 may include a foot 12511 and a support portion 12512. One end of the support portion 12512 can be connected to the connector 125, and the other end can be connected to the foot 12511. The snap-fit mating portion 11122 may include a snap-fit groove, into which the foot 12511 can snap into, thereby achieving a mating between the snap-fit portion 1251 and the snap-fit mating portion 11122. The foot 12511 and the support portion 12512 can be designed in any suitable form as needed. The snap-fit groove can match the foot 12511. The insertion of the foot 12511 into the snap-fit groove allows the snap-fit portion 1251 to be stably snapped into the snap-fit mating portion 11122. Such a snap-fit mating between the snap-fit portion 1251 and the snap-fit mating portion 11122 is simpler; it only requires the foot 12511 to be snapped into the snap-fit groove. When the connector 125 is a disposable part including a plastic part, the foot 12511 can be designed to have a larger size. The foot 12511 can be more stable after it is inserted into the slot. When the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 needs to be disassembled, it can be disassembled simply by destroying the foot 12511 and / or the support 12512.
[0063] For example, see Figures 8-13 The snap-fit portion 1251 may include a first snap-fit portion 1251a located at the distal end of the connector 125 and a second snap-fit portion 1251b located at the proximal end of the connector 125. The snap-fit mating portion 11122 may include a first snap-fit mating portion 11122a and a second snap-fit mating portion 11122b. The first snap-fit mating portion 11122a can cooperate with the first snap-fit portion 1251a, and the second snap-fit mating portion 11122b can cooperate with the second snap-fit portion 1251b. The first snap-fit portion 1251a and the second snap-fit portion 1251b can limit the first housing 122 in the axial direction (CC direction shown in the figure) along the head end portion 101. The first snap-fit part 11122a engages with the first snap-fit part 1251a, and the second snap-fit part 11122b engages with the second snap-fit part 1251b. The connecting member 125 and the second housing 1112 have two snap-fit positions, making the snap-fit between the connecting member 125 and the second housing 1112 more stable. Simultaneously, the first snap-fit part 1251a and the second snap-fit part 1251b limit the position of the first housing 122, making the first housing 122 more stable between the second housing 1112 and the connecting member 125, thus improving the overall stability of the device. Furthermore, in this ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100, there is no need for the connecting member 125 to clamp the first housing 122 with the second housing 1112, resulting in lower requirements for dimensional fit during manufacturing and easier implementation.
[0064] Exemplarily, the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 may further include a light guide 104, which may include an optical fiber, the outer surface of which may be covered with a protective sheath. The light guide 104 may be detachably connected to the outside of the insertion portion 102, and its distal end may be connected to the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120. The light guide 104 may be indirectly connected to the insertion portion 102 via a detachable retaining ring, in which case the relative position of the light guide 104 and the insertion portion 102 may be fixed by the retaining ring 150. Alternatively, the light guide 104 may be detachably connected to the insertion portion 102 via a snap-fit or other suitable means. With the light guide 104 detachably connected to the outside of the insertion portion 102, and the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 detachably connected to the ultrasound probe 110, the entire assembly of the light guide 104 and the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 may be detachable. When using this ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100, if photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging are not required in clinical practice, the light guide 104 and photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be omitted or removed preoperatively. In this case, the ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscopy 100 can only achieve ultrasound imaging, and the parts inserted into the body of the patient are the insertion part 102 and the ultrasound probe 110, similar to common ultrasound laparoscopy. This does not change the operator's usage habits and provides a better user experience. Moreover, only the ultrasound probe 110 needs to be cleaned and disinfected postoperatively, saving medical resources. If photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging are required in clinical practice, the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be connected to the outside of the outer shell 111, and the light guide 104 can be connected to the outside of the insertion part 102 preoperatively. This allows photoacoustic imaging to supplement ultrasound imaging, resulting in a better overall imaging effect. After the operation, the light guide 104 and the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be disassembled, and the ultrasound probe 110, the light guide 104 and the photoacoustic excitation component 120 can be cleaned, disinfected and sterilized respectively. This makes the overall cleaning and disinfection of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 simpler and more convenient, and the cleaning and disinfection effect is better, which is conducive to reuse.
[0065] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figures 14-18The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 and the ultrasonic probe 110 can be bonded together. The photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 can be bonded to the outside of the housing 111. Specifically, any part of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 can be bonded to the outside of the housing 111. This bonding method is very simple and easy to operate, making overall assembly simpler and more convenient. For example, the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111 can be bonded together. Typically, the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111 can be located on the same side of the head end 101, while the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112 can be located on the other side of the head end 101. Since the first housing 122 is connected to the optical window housing 121 and the second housing 1112 is connected to the acoustic window housing 1111, the bonded bonding of the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111 further improves the overall sealing performance of the device. Furthermore, when the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111 are bonded and fixed, the internal structure of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 can be more compact, and the overall size can be smaller, making it more suitable for clinical surgery. It is understandable that although the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111 are bonded and fixed, the connection between the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 and the ultrasound probe 110 can still be destructively disassembled. For example, the optical window housing 121 can be damaged to disassemble the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120, or a solvent that dissolves the adhesive can be used to separate the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 from the ultrasound probe 110. In other words, even if the optical window housing 121 and the acoustic window housing 1111 are bonded and fixed, the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is still considered to be detachable and maintainable.
[0066] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figure 17 and Figure 18 A light window structure 126 can be provided between the first housing 122 and the second housing 1112. A first side 1261 of the light window structure 126 can be connected to the first housing 122, and a second side 1262 of the light window structure 126 adjacent to the first side 1261 can be connected to the light window outer shell 121. The first side 1261 of the light window structure 126 can be the side of the light window structure 126 near the outside of the head end 101, and the second side 1262 of the light window structure 126 can be the side of the light window structure 126 near the distal end. The light window outer shell 121 is connected to the first housing 122 through the light window structure 126. The combined connection area between the light window outer shell 121 and the light window structure 126, plus the connection area between the first housing 122 and the light window structure 126, is much larger than the connection area when the light window outer shell 121 is directly connected to the first housing 122. This makes the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 more stable overall.
[0067] For example, the third side 1263 of the light window structure 126, opposite to the first side 1261, can be bonded to the acoustic window housing 1111. The third side 1263 of the light window structure 126 can be the side of the light window structure 126 closer to the interior of the head end 101. Bonding the light window structure 126 to the acoustic window housing 1111 can reduce the internal gaps of the ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope 100, making the internal structure more compact, thereby reducing the overall size and making it more suitable for clinical surgery. Moreover, bonding the light window structure 126 to the acoustic window housing 1111 can further improve the sealing performance of the ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope 100.
[0068] For example, the third side 1263 of the light window structure 126, opposite to the first side 1261, can be bonded to the second housing 1112. Bonding the light window structure 126 to the second housing 1112 reduces the internal voids of the ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope 100, making the internal structure more compact and thus reducing the overall size, making it more suitable for clinical surgery. Furthermore, bonding the light window structure 126 to the second housing 1112 further improves the sealing performance of the ultrasound-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope 100.
[0069] For example, the second side 1262 can be adhesively fixed to the light window housing 121. The second side 1262 of the light window structural member 126 can be thinly adhesively fixed to the light window housing 121, which can improve the stability of the connection between the light window structural member 126 and the light window housing 121, and also allow for a smaller gap between the light window structural member 126 and the light window housing 121, thereby making the internal structure of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 more compact. Furthermore, since the photoacoustic excitation light ultimately originates from the light window housing 121, the thin adhesive bonding of the light window structural member 126 to the light window housing 121 can prevent excessively thick or uneven adhesive layers from affecting the transmission of the photoacoustic excitation light.
[0070] For example, see Figure 17 and Figure 18 The second side 1262 may have a recess 12621 that is recessed away from the light window housing 121, and the inner surface of the light window housing 121 may have a protrusion 1211 that protrudes towards the second side 1262. The protrusion 1211 can be inserted into the recess 12621. The insertion of the protrusion 1211 into the recess 12621 can position the light window housing 121, making it simpler and more convenient to connect the light window structural component 126 to the light window housing 121. When the light window structural component 126 is glued to the light window housing 121, the provision of the protrusion 1211 and the recess 12621 can increase the adhesive area. In this way, without increasing the adhesive thickness, the stability of the glued connection of the light window structural component 126 to the light window housing 121 can be further improved, and the overall stability of the photoacoustic excitation assembly 120 is also better.
[0071] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 , and in conjunction with see Figure 7 The light guide 104 may include an optical fiber bundle 140 extending into the cavity 130. The optical fiber bundle 140 may branch into a first optical fiber bundle segment 141 and a second optical fiber bundle segment 142 within the cavity 130. When an isolator 123 is provided within the cavity 130, the optical fiber bundle 140 may branch into the first optical fiber bundle segment 141 and the second optical fiber bundle segment 142 within the accommodating cavity 124. The optical window housing 121 may include a first optical window 1212 and a second optical window 1213 located on both sides of the acoustic window housing 1111. An optical window structural member 126 may be disposed within the cavity 130. The optical window structural member 126 may include a first structural member 1264 connected to the first optical window 1212 and a second structural member 1265 connected to the second optical window 1213. The distal end of the first fiber bundle segment 141 may be connected to the first structural member 1264 and aligned with the first optical window 1212, and the distal end of the second fiber bundle segment 142 may be connected to the second structural member 1265 and aligned with the second optical window 1213. Through different designs, the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 may have different relative positional relationships. For example, the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 may be located on opposite sides of the ultrasonic probe 110, or on adjacent sides of the ultrasonic probe 110. Optionally, the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 can respectively guide the refraction of the photoacoustic excitation light, thereby changing the emission path of the photoacoustic excitation light beam to form better photoacoustic excitation light fields. In this way, through the cooperation of the first fiber bundle segment 141 and the second fiber bundle segment 142 with the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213, the divergence angle, emission angle, and illumination area of the photoacoustic excitation light emitted from the optical window housing 121 can be designed as needed, thereby improving the sensitivity of photoacoustic imaging and expanding the imaging area as required.
[0072] Exemplarily, the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 can be configured to refract the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted by the first fiber bundle segment 141 and the second fiber bundle segment 142 toward the center of the ultrasonic probe 110, respectively. Exemplarily, the inner surface of the first optical window 1212 can have a first inclined surface 12121, which can be inclined proximally along the direction close to the housing 111, and the distal end of the first fiber bundle segment 141 can be aligned with the first inclined surface 12121. Exemplarily, the inner surface of the second optical window 1213 can have a second inclined surface 12131, which can be inclined proximally along the direction close to the housing 111, and the distal end of the second fiber bundle segment 142 can be aligned with the second inclined surface 12131. Thus, the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 can refract the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted by the first fiber bundle segment 141 and the second fiber bundle segment 142 toward the center of the ultrasonic probe 110, such as... Figure 5 and Figure 18 As shown, it refracts towards the central axis MM. Figure 5 and Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the photoacoustic excitation light field is shown. The photoacoustic excitation light field has stronger energy near the imaging plane of the ultrasound probe 110. This design improves the imaging effect of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100. Besides the first inclined plane 12121 and the second inclined plane 12131, various other methods can be used to refract the photoacoustic excitation light towards the central axis MM of the ultrasound probe 110, respectively. These will not be elaborated upon here. Regardless of how the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 are configured to refract the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted by the first fiber bundle segment 141 and the second fiber bundle segment 142 towards the center of the ultrasound probe 110, the imaging effect of the ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy 100 can be improved. In addition, the first optical window 1212 has a first inclined surface 12121, and the second optical window 1213 has a second inclined surface 12131. The distal end of the first fiber bundle segment 141 can be aligned almost perpendicularly to the first inclined surface 12121, and the distal end of the second fiber bundle segment 142 can be aligned almost perpendicularly to the second inclined surface 12131. In this way, the optical window housing 121 has a better effect in guiding the optical acoustic excitation light refraction, and the alignment relationship between the first fiber bundle segment 141 and the second fiber bundle segment 142 and the optical window housing 121 is also more stable.
[0073] For example, see Figure 19The distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411 included in the first fiber bundle segment 141 can be separated from each other to form a first arc-shaped structure, and the distal ends of the plurality of second sub-fibers 1421 included in the second fiber bundle segment 142 can be separated from each other to form a second arc-shaped structure. The distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411 can have the same shape or different shapes. Preferably, the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411 can be in the form of a plurality of thin cylinders. After the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411 are separated from each other, the angles formed between them can be uniformly distributed. In the first arc-shaped structure formed by the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411, the outermost positioning angle α, as shown in the figure, can be greater than or equal to the scanning angle of the ultrasonic probe 110. The distal ends of the plurality of second sub-fibers 1421 can be similar to the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411, and will not be described in detail. It is worth noting that the first arc-shaped structure formed by the distal ends of the multiple first sub-fibers 1411 and the second arc-shaped structure formed by the distal ends of the multiple second sub-fibers 1421 can be the same or different, and no specific limitation is made here. The ultrasonic probe 110 typically has an arc-shaped acoustic window housing 1111, and the first optical window 1212 and the second optical window 1213 are both arc-shaped and adapted to the acoustic window housing 1111. This design can make the outgoing optical path of the photoacoustic excitation light coaxial with the acoustic path of the ultrasonic probe 110 for ultrasonic detection.
[0074] For example, see see Figure 7 and Figure 17The first structural component 1264 may be provided with a plurality of first through holes 12641 corresponding one-to-one with the distal ends of a plurality of first sub-fibers 1411. The axes of the plurality of first through holes 12641 may pass through the center of the first arc-shaped structure, and the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411 may be fixed in the corresponding first through holes 12641. The second structural component 1265 may be provided with a plurality of second through holes 12651 corresponding one-to-one with the distal ends of a plurality of second sub-fibers 1421. The axes of the plurality of second through holes 12651 may pass through the center of the second arc-shaped structure, and the distal ends of the plurality of second sub-fibers 1421 may be fixed in the corresponding second through holes 12651. The shape of the first through holes 12641 may match the shape of the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411, and the distal ends of the plurality of first sub-fibers 1411 may be fixedly connected to the plurality of first through holes 12641 by adhesive bonding. The distal end of each branched first sub-fiber 1411 may correspond to a first through hole 12641. The second structural component 1265 can be similar to the first structural component 1264, and will not be described in detail here. This fixing method is not only simple in structure, but also protects the distal ends of multiple first sub-fibers 1411 and multiple second sub-fibers 1421 by the first structural component 1264 and the second structural component 1265, making them less likely to change position due to collisions or other external causes, thus improving the stability of the overall device.
[0075] For example, the distal ends of a plurality of first sub-optical fibers 1411 may each be provided with a first fixing member 14111, and the plurality of first fixing members 14111 may be fixed to a plurality of first through holes 12641 in a one-to-one correspondence. For example, the distal ends of a plurality of second sub-optical fibers 1421 may each be provided with a second fixing member 14211, and the plurality of second fixing members 14211 may be fixed to a plurality of second through holes 12651 in a one-to-one correspondence. Optionally, the first fixing member 14111 and the second fixing member 14211 may be formed by an optical fiber connector sleeved on the optical fiber, and may serve as a support structure for the optical fiber. Optionally, the first fixing member 14111 and the second fixing member 14211 may also be rigid segments formed by various curing methods. The distal ends of multiple first sub-fibers 1411 are connected to multiple first through holes 12641 via first fixing members 14111. This provides effective protection for the distal ends of the multiple first sub-fibers 1411 and facilitates the fixing of the distal ends of the first fiber bundle segment 141 to the first structural member 1264. The distal ends of multiple second sub-fibers 1421 are connected to multiple second through holes 12651 via second fixing members 14211. This provides effective protection for the distal ends of the multiple second sub-fibers 1421 and facilitates the fixing of the distal ends of the second fiber bundle segment 142 to the second structural member 1265.
[0076] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" indicate the orientation or positional relationship, which are usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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 utility model. The directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of each component itself.
[0077] 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.
[0078] 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 exemplary embodiments according to the present 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.
[0079] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this utility model 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 this utility model described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.
[0080] This utility model 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 utility model to the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this utility model, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. An ultrasonic-optoacoustic hybrid laparoscope comprising an insertion portion and a head end portion, characterized in that, The head end includes a photoacoustic excitation assembly and an ultrasonic probe with a housing. The ultrasonic probe is connected to the distal end of the insertion part, and the photoacoustic excitation assembly is connected to the outside of the housing.
2. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The photoacoustic excitation assembly includes a light window housing and a first housing, the light window housing being connected to the first housing, the housing including an acoustic window housing and a second housing, the acoustic window housing being connected to the second housing, wherein the light window housing is abutted against the acoustic window housing from the side, and at least a portion of the second housing is surrounded by the first housing.
3. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 2, wherein, The first housing is detachably connected to the second housing.
4. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 3, wherein, The first housing is provided with a threaded connection portion, and the second housing is provided with a threaded mating portion. Fasteners are inserted through the threaded connection portion and the threaded mating portion so that the first housing can be detachably connected to the second housing.
5. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 4, wherein, The photoacoustic excitation assembly includes an isolator, which is fixedly connected to the first housing, and the isolator, the light window housing, and the first housing together form a sealed accommodating cavity.
6. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 5, wherein, The spacer is fitted into the second housing.
7. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 3, wherein, The first housing and the second housing are snap-fitted together.
8. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 3, wherein, The ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy also includes a connector, which has a snap-fit part and the second housing has a snap-fit mating part. Through the cooperation of the snap-fit part and the snap-fit mating part, the connector is snapped to the second housing and the first housing is located between the connector and the second housing.
9. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 8, wherein, The snap-fit part includes a foot and a support part. One end of the support part is connected to the connector and the other end is connected to the foot. The snap-fit mating part includes a snap-fit groove. The foot is snapped into the snap-fit groove to achieve the engagement of the snap-fit part and the snap-fit mating part.
10. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 9, wherein, The snap-fit portion includes a first snap-fit portion located at the distal end of the connector and a second snap-fit portion located at the proximal end of the connector. The snap-fit mating portion includes a first snap-fit mating portion and a second snap-fit mating portion. The first snap-fit mating portion mates with the first snap-fit portion, and the second snap-fit mating portion mates with the second snap-fit portion. The first snap-fit portion and the second snap-fit portion limit the first housing in the axial direction along the head end.
11. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to any one of claims 2-10, wherein, The ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscopy also includes a light guide, which is detachably connected to the outside of the insertion portion and the distal end of the light guide is connected to the photoacoustic excitation assembly.
12. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 2, wherein, The photoacoustic excitation component is bonded and fixed to the ultrasonic probe.
13. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer shell of the light window is bonded and fixed to the outer shell of the sound window.
14. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 13, wherein, A light window structure is provided between the first housing and the second housing. A first side of the light window structure is connected to the first housing, and a second side of the light window structure adjacent to the first side is connected to the light window outer shell.
15. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 14, wherein, The third side of the light window structure, opposite to the first side, is bonded to the sound window housing.
16. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 14, wherein, The third side of the light window structure, which is opposite to the first side, is bonded to the second housing.
17. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic hybrid laparoscope according to claim 14, wherein, The second side is bonded and fixed to the light window housing.
18. An ultrasound-optoacoustic imaging system, characterized by The device includes an ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit, a photoacoustic excitation light source, and an ultrasound-photoacoustic composite laparoscope as described in any one of claims 1-17, wherein the ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit is connected to the photoacoustic excitation light source and the photoacoustic excitation light source is connected to the photoacoustic excitation assembly via a light guide, and the ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit is connected to the insertion part via an ultrasound connector.