Photoacoustic excitation apparatus, ultrasound probe, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of photoacoustic excitation instrument, ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic-photoacoustic imaging system, including insertion part, operating part and light guide piece, photoacoustic excitation light window is provided on the distal end of insertion part, operating part is formed in the proximal end of insertion part, photoacoustic excitation light is conducted to photoacoustic excitation light window by light guide piece, and photoacoustic excitation light window is emitted to form illumination area, wherein, the insertion part distal end is formed with the insertion part of limit step.Such, photoacoustic excitation instrument can be combined with ultrasonic probe to form ultrasonic-photoacoustic imaging system, and also convenient and ultrasonic probe separate, so that photoacoustic excitation instrument and ultrasonic probe can be combined use, can also be separated and used alone, and operator can decide whether to use photoacoustic excitation instrument according to actual situation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, specifically to a photoacoustic excitation device, an ultrasonic probe, and an ultrasonic-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 current laparoscopic surgeries, the laparoscopes used integrate ultrasound probes and photoacoustic excitation devices into a single medical instrument before insertion into the body to achieve better imaging results. However, this integrated instrument is complex and difficult to clean. Even when only ultrasound imaging is needed for clinical diagnosis and treatment, inserting the integrated instrument still wastes medical resources due to the need for postoperative cleaning and disinfection. Furthermore, the assembly process itself increases costs. Utility Model Content

[0004] To at least partially address the problems existing in the prior art, a photoacoustic excitation device is provided according to one aspect of the present invention. The photoacoustic excitation device includes an insertion part, an operating part, and a light guide. A photoacoustic excitation light window is provided at the distal end of the insertion part, and the operating part is formed at the proximal end of the insertion part. The photoacoustic excitation light is transmitted to the photoacoustic excitation light window through the light guide and emitted through the photoacoustic excitation light window to form an irradiation area. The insertion part has a plug-in part with a limiting step formed at the distal end of the insertion part.

[0005] The photoacoustic excitation device provided by this invention features a connector with a limiting step at the distal end of the insertion part. Inserting this connector into an ultrasound probe allows for the formation of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system. This simplifies and simplifies the combination of the photoacoustic excitation device and the ultrasound probe, facilitating both integration and separation. The photoacoustic excitation device can be used in combination or separately, allowing the operator to decide whether to use it based on the specific circumstances. When applied to an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system, this device eliminates the need for pre-assembling and inserting the device and probe together into the body. The operator can decide whether to use the device during the procedure. If necessary, the device can be inserted during the procedure to achieve both photoacoustic and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging, ensuring the overall imaging effect meets requirements. In cases where clinical diagnosis and treatment can be completed using only an ultrasound probe, there is no need to insert a photoacoustic excitation device, thus eliminating the need for cleaning and disinfection of the photoacoustic excitation device and reducing the waste of medical resources.

[0006] For example, the photoacoustic excitation device includes a housing, a portion of which forms an operating part, and another portion of which forms an insertion part.

[0007] For example, the housing has a device channel running through it from the proximal end to the distal end, through which a medical device can pass.

[0008] For example, one end of the light guide is located inside the housing and faces the photoacoustic excitation light window, while the other end of the light guide extends out from the near end of the housing.

[0009] For example, an instrument channel is provided from the proximal end of the operating part to the distal end of the insertion part for the medical device to pass through, and a light guide is arranged around the instrument channel.

[0010] For example, a photoacoustic excitation window is fitted around the far end of the instrument channel.

[0011] For example, the photoacoustic excitation window is surrounded by the far end of the housing.

[0012] For example, at least at the distal end of the insertion portion, the outer wall of the housing is formed with a cylindrical surface of a predetermined length.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, an ultrasonic probe is provided, the ultrasonic probe having a detection section and a mating section, the detection section being provided with an ultrasonic transducer and an acoustic window, the ultrasonic waves passing through the acoustic window forming a detection area, the mating section being provided with a positioning groove penetrating the ultrasonic probe, the positioning groove forming a limiting part, so that any of the aforementioned photoacoustic excitation devices can only be inserted into the positioning groove at the end of the ultrasonic probe opposite to the acoustic window, and the insertion position is restricted.

[0014] For example, the positioning groove includes a first groove segment and a second groove segment, and the limiting part is configured to form a limiting surface between the first groove segment and the second groove segment.

[0015] For example, the first groove is disposed on the side of the ultrasonic probe away from the acoustic window, and the second groove is disposed on the side of the ultrasonic probe close to the acoustic window. The inner walls of the first groove and the second groove are formed as concentric cylindrical surfaces, and the inner diameter of the first groove is larger than the inner diameter of the second groove.

[0016] For example, from the opening of the positioning groove to the bottom of the positioning groove, the centerline of the positioning groove gradually approaches the ultrasonic transducer, wherein the opening of the groove is located on the side of the ultrasonic probe away from the acoustic window, and the bottom of the groove is located on the side of the ultrasonic probe closer to the acoustic window.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, an ultrasonic-photoacoustic imaging system is provided, comprising a photoacoustic exciter as described above and an ultrasonic probe as described above. The insertion part is inserted into the positioning groove and cooperates with the limiting part through the limiting step so that the ultrasonic probe and the photoacoustic exciter are combined in a predetermined posture so that the irradiation area and the detection area at least partially overlap.

[0018] For example, on a projection surface at a preset distance from the ultrasonic probe, the projected area formed by the irradiation area is not less than the projected area formed by the detection area.

[0019] For example, the ultrasound probe includes a probe housing connected to an ultrasound-photoacoustic host, which has an imaging interface for displaying the detection area and the instrument push guide line.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The advantages and features of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0022] 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,

[0023] Figure 1 This is a partial schematic diagram of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2This is a partial perspective view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a photoacoustic excitation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5A This is a partial cross-sectional view of a photoacoustic excitation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5B for Figure 5A A partial side view of the photoacoustic excitation device shown;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a partial schematic diagram of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7A This is a partial cross-sectional view of a photoacoustic excitation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7B for Figure 7A A partial side view of the photoacoustic excitation device shown; and

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the imaging interface of an ultrasound-photoacoustic host according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0034] 100. Ultrasonic probe; 110. Probe housing; 111. Detection section; 112. Fitting section; 1121. Positioning groove; 1121a. First groove section; 1121b. Second groove section; 1121c. Limiting surface; 120. Ultrasonic transducer; 130. Acoustic window; 200. Photoacoustic excitation device; 210. Housing; 211. Insertion part; 2111. Plug-in part; 2111a. Connecting section; 2111b. Light emission section; 2111c. Abutment surface; 212. Operating part; 220. Photoacoustic excitation light window; 230. Light guide; 240. Instrument channel; 250. Cable; 260. Light guide; 300. Instrument push guide line; 400. Optical rigid lens; 500. Puncture needle; 600. Abdominal cavity. Detailed Implementation

[0035] 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.

[0036] An embodiment of this utility model provides a photoacoustic excitation device that can be assembled with an ultrasonic probe. Therefore, according to another aspect of this utility model, an ultrasonic probe is provided that can be assembled with a photoacoustic excitation device. The photoacoustic excitation device provided in this application is not limited to being assembled with the ultrasonic probe provided in this application, and similarly, the ultrasonic probe provided in this application is not limited to being assembled with the photoacoustic excitation device provided in this application. Further, according to yet another aspect of this utility model, an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system is provided, which may include any of the photoacoustic excitation devices and ultrasonic probes described below. The photoacoustic excitation device, ultrasonic probe, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system provided according to this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] To gain a comprehensive understanding of this invention, the ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system will first be described.

[0038] The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system provided by this invention can have a variety of imaging modes, supporting ultrasound imaging mode, photoacoustic imaging mode, and ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging mode, which helps to improve the accuracy of disease diagnosis. The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system can include an ultrasound probe and a photoacoustic excitation device. The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system can also include an ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit and a photoacoustic excitation light source. The photoacoustic excitation light source and the ultrasound probe can be respectively connected to the ultrasound-photoacoustic main unit, and the photoacoustic excitation device can be connected to the photoacoustic excitation light source. The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system can be applied to any suitable clinical surgery. For example, the ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system can be applied to laparoscopic surgery, in which case the ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system can include a laparoscopic ultrasound probe, a photoacoustic excitation device, and a rigid optical endoscope.

[0039] For ease of description, the term "distal end" as used below refers to the end of the ultrasonic probe that is closer to the object being observed when the operator is using the ultrasonic probe, or the end of the photoacoustic excitation device that is closer to the object being observed when the operator is using the photoacoustic excitation device; the term "proximal end" as used below refers to the end of the ultrasonic probe that is closer to the operator when the operator is using the ultrasonic probe, or the end of the photoacoustic excitation device that is closer to the operator when the operator is using the photoacoustic excitation device.

[0040] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 may include an insertion part 211, an operating part 212, and a light guide 230. A photoacoustic excitation window 220 may be provided on the distal end of the insertion part 211 (referred to as the distal end because it is closer to the object being observed during use). The operating part 212 may be formed on the proximal end of the insertion part 211 (referred to as the proximal end because it is closer to the operator during use). The photoacoustic excitation light can be conducted through the light guide 230 to the photoacoustic excitation window 220 and emitted through the photoacoustic excitation window 220 to form an irradiation area (area G shown in the figure). A insertion part 2111 with a limiting step may be formed on the distal end of the insertion part 211.

[0041] See Figure 4 The photoacoustic excitation device 200 may also include a cable 250 and a light guide 260. The light guide 260 can be connected to a photoacoustic excitation light source. The insertion part 211, the operation part 212, the cable 250, and the light guide 260 can be connected in sequence.

[0042] The operation unit 212 can be equipped with a smart button. By controlling the operation unit 212, a signal can be sent to the ultrasound-photoacoustic host, thereby controlling the activation of the photoacoustic excitation light source. The photoacoustic excitation light source can emit photoacoustic excitation light. The photoacoustic excitation light source can be a pulsed laser 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 can be transmitted to the photoacoustic excitation device 200 via the light guide 260, and then the distal end of the insertion part 211 on the photoacoustic excitation device 200 can emit photoacoustic excitation light. When the photoacoustic excitation light irradiates biological tissue, the biological tissue absorbs the light energy and undergoes thermal expansion. During the pulse interval of the photoacoustic excitation light, energy is released and contraction occurs. The process of thermal expansion and contraction generates high-frequency ultrasound waves. The ultrasound-photoacoustic host can be connected to the ultrasound probe 100. The ultrasound probe 100 can be equipped with an ultrasound transducer 120, which can emit and receive ultrasound signals. The ultrasonic transducer 120 receives ultrasound waves generated by biological tissue under the action of photoacoustic excitation light. The generated ultrasound signal is transmitted to the ultrasound-photoacoustic host to achieve photoacoustic imaging. Alternatively, the ultrasound-photoacoustic host can also generate ultrasound pulse signals, which can be transmitted to the ultrasonic transducer 120. The transducer 120 then generates ultrasound waves, which, upon reaching the biological tissue, produce ultrasound echoes. The ultrasonic transducer 120 receives these 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 at preset time intervals, achieving ultrasound-photoacoustic fusion imaging. The preferred time interval is 1μs-100μs, a time interval imperceptible to the human eye, eliminating motion artifacts, and visually appearing as simultaneous ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging. The ultrasound-photoacoustic host can include an imaging interface; for example, it can be connected to a display, and the imaging interface can be displayed on the display. The aforementioned photoacoustic imaging, ultrasound imaging, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging can all be displayed on the imaging interface.

[0043] The photoacoustic excitation device 200 provided by this utility model has a plug-in portion 2111 with a limiting step formed on the distal end of the insertion portion 211. By inserting the plug-in portion 2111 into the ultrasonic probe 100, it can be combined with the ultrasonic probe 100 to form an ultrasonic-photoacoustic imaging system. Not only is the combination of the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and the ultrasonic probe 100 simpler and easier to implement, but the photoacoustic excitation device 200 can also be easily combined with the ultrasonic probe 100 to form an ultrasonic-photoacoustic imaging system, and it is also easy to separate from the ultrasonic probe 100. Thus, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and the ultrasonic probe 100 can be used together or separately, which allows the operator to decide whether to use the photoacoustic excitation device 200 according to the actual situation. When this photoacoustic excitation device 200 is applied to an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system and assembled with the ultrasound probe 100, it is not necessary to pre-assemble and insert the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and the ultrasound probe 100 together into the human body for detection. The operator can decide whether to use the photoacoustic excitation device 200 at any time according to the actual situation during the operation. If necessary, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 can be inserted during the operation to combine with the ultrasound probe 100, thereby realizing photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging to ensure that the overall imaging effect meets the requirements. For situations where clinical diagnosis and treatment can be completed using only the ultrasound probe 100, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 does not need to be inserted, thus saving the need for disinfection of the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and reducing the waste of medical resources.

[0044] For example, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 may include a housing 210. A portion of the housing 210 may form an operating part 212, and another portion of the housing 210 may form an insertion part 211. That is, the operating part 212 and the insertion part 211 may be integrally formed, thereby simplifying the structure of the housing 210, facilitating its processing, and reducing manufacturing costs. Of course, the operating part 212 and the insertion part 211 may also be separately processed from the housing 210 and then connected together by any suitable method such as welding, snap-fit, or threaded connection.

[0045] In an embodiment not shown, the housing 210 has an instrument channel 240 extending from proximal to distal (i.e., from the end of the housing 210 closer to the operator to the end of the housing 210 closer to the object being observed), through which a medical device can pass. Taking the application of an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system in laparoscopic surgery as an example, a puncture needle 500 may be needed during the clinical procedure. The puncture needle 500 can pass through the instrument channel 240 in the photoacoustic excitation device 200 to reach the lesion site without requiring an additional opening in the patient's abdomen. In other clinical procedures, various suitable medical devices can pass through the instrument channel 240 to reach the lesion site, making the operation simpler and more convenient, and eliminating the need for additional openings in the patient's body, thereby reducing patient discomfort and further minimizing incisions.

[0046] For example, see Figure 7A and Figure 5A One end of the light guide 230 can be located inside the housing 210 and directly facing the photoacoustic excitation light window 220. The other end of the light guide 230 can protrude from the proximal end of the housing 210. This makes it easier for the distal end of the light guide 230 to be aligned with the photoacoustic excitation light window 220, thus improving the effect of the photoacoustic excitation device 200 emitting photoacoustic excitation light.

[0047] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figure 7A and Figure 7B A medical device can pass through an instrument channel 240 from the proximal end of the operating section 212 to the distal end of the insertion section 211, and a light guide 230 can be arranged around the instrument channel 240. Specifically, the proximal end of the light guide 230 can be connected to the light guide section 260. The photoacoustic excitation light emitted by the photoacoustic excitation light source can be transmitted to the light guide 230 via the light guide section 260, and then transmitted by the light guide 230 to the photoacoustic excitation light window 220. Thus, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 can emit photoacoustic excitation light through the photoacoustic excitation light window 220.

[0048] The light guide 230 may include multiple fiber bundles, which may be pre-connected to the housing 210 in a ring shape along the circumferential direction, thus naturally forming an instrument channel 240. This instrument channel 240 is disposed throughout the housing 210. Compared to other arrangements of the light guide 230 and instrument channel 240 within the photoacoustic excitation device 200, such as the light guide 230 and instrument channel 240 being located on opposite sides inside the photoacoustic excitation device 200, when the medical device passes through the instrument channel 240 to operate on the lesion site, the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted by the light guide 230 is emitted through the photoacoustic excitation light window 220. The resulting irradiation area G can better cover the lesion site and uniformly irradiate the lesion area, thus providing better guidance for the operation of the medical device. Furthermore, the uniform distribution of the fiber bundles makes the internal structure of the photoacoustic excitation device 200 more compact, and the radial dimension can be smaller.

[0049] Of course, in some embodiments, the instrument channel 240 may also be a separate structure with a cylindrical outer wall.

[0050] Based on the housing 210 having an instrument channel 240 extending from the proximal end to the distal end for medical devices to pass through, and the light guide 230 being arranged around the instrument channel 240, see, for example, [reference needed]. Figure 7A and Figure 7BThe photoacoustic excitation window 220 can be sleeved around the distal end of the instrument channel 240. Such a photoacoustic excitation window 220 can avoid obstructing medical devices extending from the distal end of the instrument channel 240, and such a photoacoustic excitation window 220 can better match the distal end of the light guide 230 sleeved on the instrument channel 240.

[0051] For example, see Figure 5A and Figure 5B The photoacoustic excitation window 220 can be surrounded by the distal end of the housing 210. The housing 210 surrounds the photoacoustic excitation window 220 for two reasons: firstly, the photoacoustic excitation window 220 is located inside the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and does not extend outside the device, thus the housing 210 protects the window from contamination and damage; secondly, when the photoacoustic excitation light is transmitted to the window 220 and refracted, it is emitted from the window. Since the housing 210 surrounds the window, the direction of the emitted light is more controllable. For example, the emitted light may be roughly along the axis of the housing 210, and the resulting irradiation area G may be symmetrical about the axis of the housing 210.

[0052] In one embodiment of this utility model, see Figure 5B and Figure 7B At least at the distal end of the insertion part 211, the outer wall of the housing 210 can be formed with a cylindrical surface of a predetermined length. In this way, the insertion posture of the insertion part 2111 (i.e., the posture when the insertion part 2111 is inserted into the positioning groove 1121 mentioned later) can be unrestricted, which facilitates the assembly and combination of the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and the ultrasonic probe 100.

[0053] According to another aspect of this utility model, see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 An ultrasonic probe 100 is provided, which may include a probe housing 110. The ultrasonic probe 100 may have a detection section 111 and a mating section 112. The detection section 111 may be provided with an ultrasonic transducer 120 and an acoustic window 130. Ultrasonic waves can pass through the acoustic window 130 to form a detection area (area M in the figure). A positioning groove 1121 penetrating the probe housing 110 may be provided on the mating section 112. The positioning groove 1121 may form a limiting part, so that the aforementioned photoacoustic excitation device 200 can only be inserted into the positioning groove 1121 at the end of the ultrasonic probe 100 opposite to the acoustic window 130, and the insertion position is restricted.

[0054] The ultrasonic transducer 120 can be disposed inside the acoustic window 130. The acoustic window 130 can be made of opaque silicone material.

[0055] The positioning groove 1121 can be a semi-open through groove provided on the side of the probe housing 110, or it can be a through hole penetrating both sides of the probe housing 110. The centerline direction of the positioning groove 1121 can be perpendicular to the axis of the ultrasonic probe 100, or it can be at a certain angle to the axis of the ultrasonic probe 100. The external shape of the insertion part 2111 can match the positioning groove 1121, and the positioning groove 1121 can guide, limit, and fix the insertion part 2111. Specifically, the insertion part 2111 is inserted into the positioning groove 1121 from one end, and the photoacoustic excitation light emitted from the photoacoustic excitation window 220 can be emitted from the other end of the positioning groove 1121 through the positioning groove 1121.

[0056] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The positioning groove 1121 may include a first groove segment 1121a and a second groove segment 1121b. The limiting part may be configured to form a limiting surface 1121c between the first groove segment 1121a and the second groove segment 1121b.

[0057] See Figure 1 and Figure 3 The first groove segment 1121a can be located on the side of the ultrasonic probe 100 away from the acoustic window 130. The second groove segment 1121b can be located on the side of the ultrasonic probe 100 closer to the acoustic window 130. The inner walls of the first groove segment 1121a and the second groove segment 1121b can be formed as concentric cylindrical surfaces, and the inner diameter of the first groove segment 1121a is larger than the inner diameter of the second groove segment 1121b. In this way, the photoacoustic excitation device 200 can be held by the operator at any rotation angle so that the insertion part 2111 is inserted into the positioning groove 1121, and the annular limiting surface 1121c will not obstruct the photoacoustic excitation light window 220.

[0058] It should be noted that when both the inner wall of the positioning groove 1121 and the outer wall of the insertion part 2111 are formed as cylindrical surfaces, the inner wall of the positioning groove 1121 and the outer wall of the insertion part 2111 are concentric. The preset length of the cylindrical surface formed by the outer wall of the insertion part 2111 is related to the depth of the first groove segment 1121a of the positioning groove 1121, and the former can be equal to or greater than the latter.

[0059] For example, the insertion part 2111 can be inserted into the first groove segment 1121a from one end away from the second groove segment 1121b. The inner diameter of the first groove segment 1121a can be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the insertion part 2111, while the inner diameter of the second groove segment 1121b can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the insertion part 2111. In this way, the insertion part 2111 inserted into the first groove segment 1121a will not be able to enter the second groove segment 1121b, and the connection between the first groove segment 1121a and the second groove segment 1121b will limit the insertion part 2111. Specifically, at least a portion of the insertion part 2111 can abut against the limiting surface 1121c. The limiting surface 1121c can be in the form of a stepped surface, and the limiting surface 1121c can be perpendicular to the center line of the positioning groove 1121, or it can be at a certain angle to the center line of the positioning groove 1121. At least a portion of the insertion part 2111 can abut against the limiting surface 1121c in any suitable manner. When the limiting surface 1121c is perpendicular to the center line of the positioning groove 1121, the limiting surface 1121c is equivalent to the stepped surface between the first groove segment 1121a and the second groove segment 1121b, and the insertion part 2111 can have a corresponding stepped surface, which can abut against the limiting surface 1121c. When the limiting surface 1121c forms a certain angle with the center line of the positioning groove 1121, the limiting surface 1121c can be an inclined transition surface between the first groove segment 1121a and the second groove segment 1121b, and the periphery of the end of the insertion part 2111 can abut against such a limiting surface 1121c. Since at least a portion of the insertion part 2111 can abut against the limiting surface 1121c, the positioning groove 1121 provides better limiting and fixing effect for the insertion part 2111. When the insertion part 2111 is inserted into the positioning groove 1121, it is not easy to pass through the positioning groove 1121. The insertion part 2111 will be limited by the limiting surface 1121c and stay in a suitable position within the positioning groove 1121. Moreover, since at least a portion of the insertion part 2111 abuts against the limiting surface 1121c, the limiting surface 1121c provides support for the photoacoustic excitation device 200, making it less prone to shaking during use. When the operator inserts the photoacoustic excitation device 200 during the operation, the insertion part 2111 abutting against the limiting surface 1121c will prompt the operator that the insertion part 2111 of the photoacoustic excitation device 200 has been inserted into the appropriate position in the positioning groove 1121. This will improve the operator's experience when using such an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system, and the photoacoustic excitation light can be more accurately irradiated to the area to be photoacoustic imaging, that is, the irradiation area G formed by the photoacoustic excitation light can at least partially overlap with the detection area M of the ultrasound transducer 120.

[0060] For example, see Figure 3 and Figure 4The insertion portion 2111 may include a connecting section 2111a located within the first slot 1121a and a light-emitting section 2111b located within the second slot 1121b. The outer wall of the light-emitting section 2111b may abut against the inner wall of the second slot 1121b. An abutting surface 2111c may be formed between the light-emitting section 2111b and the connecting section 2111a, and the abutting surface 2111c may abut against the limiting surface 1121c. Understandably, at this time, the connecting section 2111a, the light-emitting section 2111b, and the abutting surface 2111c may form a limiting step. The outer diameter of the connecting section 2111a may match the inner diameter of the first slot 1121a, and the outer diameter of the light-emitting section 2111b may match the inner diameter of the second slot 1121b. The contact surface 2111c connects the light-emitting section 2111b and the connecting section 2111a. When the contact surface 2111c abuts against the limiting surface 1121c, the connecting section 2111a can be located within the first groove section 1121a, and the light-emitting section 2111b can be located within the second groove section 1121b. Since the outer wall of the light-emitting section 2111b abuts against the inner wall of the second groove section 1121b, the second groove section 1121b can limit and fix the light-emitting section 2111b. This makes the insertion part 2111 more stable when inserted into the positioning groove 1121, and the photoacoustic excitation device 200 and the ultrasonic probe 100 can also be more stable when combined in a predetermined posture.

[0061] Understandably, as long as the insertion part 2111 is inserted into the positioning groove 1121 and cooperates with the limiting part through the limiting step to combine the ultrasonic probe 100 and the photoacoustic excitation device 200 in a predetermined posture, the positioning groove 1121 and the insertion part 2111 can also be constructed as other structures.

[0062] It should be noted that the predetermined posture refers to the fact that when the ultrasonic probe 100 and the photoacoustic excitation device 200 are combined in the predetermined posture, the irradiation area G formed by the photoacoustic excitation light and the detection area M of the ultrasonic transducer 120 can at least partially overlap.

[0063] For example, from the opening to the bottom of the positioning groove 1121, the centerline of the positioning groove 1121 can gradually approach the ultrasonic transducer 120. The opening can be located on the side of the ultrasonic probe 100 away from the acoustic window 130, and the bottom can be located on the side of the ultrasonic probe 100 closer to the acoustic window 130. Understandably, the opening of the positioning groove 1121 is the end opening of the first groove segment 1121a away from the second groove segment 1121b, and the bottom of the positioning groove 1121 is the end opening of the second groove segment 1121b away from the first groove segment 1121a. The photoacoustic excitation light emitted by the photoacoustic excitation device 200 will be emitted towards the irradiation area G along the centerline of the positioning groove 1121. The tilt of the centerline of the positioning groove 1121 towards the ultrasonic transducer 120 ensures a larger overlap between the irradiation area G and the detection area M, thereby improving the photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging effects in such an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system.

[0064] In other embodiments, the limiting portion provided in the positioning groove 1121 can also be other available shapes, such as one or more protrusions provided on the inner wall of the positioning groove 1121. The shape of the protrusions can also be adapted to the shape of the insertion portion 2111 of the aforementioned photoacoustic excitation device 200. As long as the positioning groove 1121 can limit the insertion direction and insertion position of the photoacoustic excitation device 200, it meets the requirements of the present invention in solving the technical problem.

[0065] Ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging systems can be used in laparoscopic surgery, in which the operator needs to perform the procedure under pneumoperitoneum. See also... Figure 1 The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system may include the photoacoustic exciter 200 and the ultrasound probe 100 as described above. The insertion part 2111 can be inserted into the positioning groove 1121 and, through the engagement of the limiting step with the limiting part, allows the ultrasound probe 100 and the photoacoustic exciter 200 to be combined in a predetermined posture, so that the irradiation area G and the detection area M at least partially overlap. Thus, ultrasound imaging, photoacoustic imaging, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging can be realized in the overlapping portion of the irradiation area G and the detection area M. Further, the ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system may also include a rigid optical endoscope 400. After inflating the abdominal cavity 600 of the observed object, the ultrasound probe 100, the photoacoustic exciter 200, and the rigid optical endoscope 400 can be inserted into the abdominal cavity 600. The rigid optical endoscope 400 can be inserted into the abdominal cavity 600 first, and after observation using optical imaging, the photoacoustic exciter 200 and the ultrasound probe 100 can be inserted into the abdominal cavity 600 and brought close to the lesion location.

[0066] Since the ultrasonic transducer 120 can emit and receive ultrasonic signals, and the photoacoustic excitation device 200 needs to cooperate with the ultrasonic probe to achieve photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging, the imaging area for achieving photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging is actually the overlapping portion of the irradiation area G and the detection area M. If, on a projection surface at a preset distance from the ultrasonic probe 100, the projected area formed by the irradiation area G is smaller than the projected area formed by the detection area M, the overlapping portion of the irradiation area G and the detection area M is also smaller than the detection area M, and the imaging area for achieving photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging is also smaller than the detection area M. For example, on a projection surface at a preset distance from the ultrasonic probe 100, the projected area formed by the irradiation area G can be no less than the projected area formed by the detection area M. In this case, the overlapping portion of the irradiation area G and the detection area M can be the detection area M. In such an ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system, the imaging area for ultrasonic imaging, photoacoustic imaging, and ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging is the detection area M, achieving the largest possible imaging area and resulting in better diagnostic and therapeutic effects. Understandably, the preset distance mentioned here refers to the distance between the ultrasound probe 100 and the object being observed.

[0067] For example, see Figure 3 and Figure 8 The probe housing 110 can be connected to an ultrasound-photoacoustic host. The ultrasound-photoacoustic host can have an imaging interface that displays the detection area M and the instrument push guide line 300. The instrument push guide line 300 can indicate to the operator the pushing direction of the medical device in the instrument channel 240. The instrument push guide line 300 can be used to indicate the relative position of the axis of the instrument channel 240 and the ultrasound transducer 120. The imaging interface can include a position indication of the ultrasound transducer 120, and the detection area M can be determined based on the position of the ultrasound transducer 120. The instrument channel 240 can be coaxial with the positioning groove 1121. Based on the actual positional relationship between the ultrasound transducer 120 and the positioning groove 1121, the axis of the instrument channel 240 can be positioned on the imaging interface, thereby displaying the axis of the instrument channel 240 as the instrument push guide line 300 on the imaging interface to provide guidance to the operator. The imaging interface of the ultrasound-photoacoustic host includes a detection area M, which can provide prompts for the pushing of medical devices. By simply observing the imaging interface, it is possible to determine whether the medical device is being pushed to the current position, thus improving the user experience.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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. A photoacoustic excitation device, characterized in that, include: The insertion part has a photoacoustic excitation light window provided at its distal end; An operating part is formed at the proximal end of the insertion part; as well as A light guide is used to transmit photoacoustic excitation light to the photoacoustic excitation light window and to emit light through the photoacoustic excitation light window to form an irradiation area. The insertion part has a limiting step formed on its distal end.

2. The photoacoustic excitation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The photoacoustic excitation device includes a housing, a portion of which forms the operating part, and another portion of which forms the insertion part.

3. The photoacoustic excitation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing has a device channel running from the proximal end to the distal end, through which a medical device can pass.

4. The photoacoustic excitation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, One end of the light guide is located inside the housing and directly opposite the photoacoustic excitation light window, while the other end of the light guide extends out from the near end of the housing.

5. The photoacoustic excitation device according to claim 4, characterized in that, A medical device channel extends from the proximal end of the operating part to the distal end of the insertion part, through which the medical device passes, and the light guide is arranged around the medical device channel.

6. The photoacoustic excitation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The photoacoustic excitation window is surrounding and fitted around the distal end of the instrument channel.

7. The photoacoustic excitation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The photoacoustic excitation window is surrounded by the far end of the housing.

8. The photoacoustic excitation device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, At least at the distal end of the insertion portion, the outer wall of the housing is formed with a cylindrical surface of a predetermined length.

9. An ultrasonic probe, characterized in that, The ultrasonic probe has a detection section and a mating section. The detection section is provided with an ultrasonic transducer and an acoustic window. Ultrasonic waves pass through the acoustic window to form a detection area. The mating section is provided with a positioning groove that penetrates the ultrasonic probe. The positioning groove forms a limiting part, so that the positioning groove can only insert the photoacoustic excitation device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 at the end of the ultrasonic probe opposite to the acoustic window, and restricts the insertion position.

10. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 9, characterized in that, The positioning groove includes a first groove segment and a second groove segment, and the limiting part is configured to form a limiting surface between the first groove segment and the second groove segment.

11. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first groove is located on the side of the ultrasonic probe away from the acoustic window, and the second groove is located on the side of the ultrasonic probe close to the acoustic window. The inner walls of the first groove and the second groove are formed as concentric cylindrical surfaces, and the inner diameter of the first groove is larger than the inner diameter of the second groove.

12. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 9, characterized in that, From the opening of the positioning groove to the bottom of the positioning groove, the centerline of the positioning groove gradually approaches the ultrasonic transducer, wherein the opening of the groove is located on the side of the ultrasonic probe away from the acoustic window, and the bottom of the groove is located on the side of the ultrasonic probe closer to the acoustic window.

13. An ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system, characterized in that, Includes a photoacoustic excitation device as described in any one of claims 1-8 and an ultrasonic probe as described in any one of claims 9-12, wherein the insertion part is inserted into the positioning groove and cooperates with the limiting part through the limiting step to combine the ultrasonic probe and the photoacoustic excitation device in a predetermined posture so that the irradiation area and the detection area at least partially overlap.

14. The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to claim 13, characterized in that, On a projection surface at a preset distance from the ultrasonic probe, the projected area formed by the irradiation area is not less than the projected area formed by the detection area.

15. The ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The ultrasonic probe includes a probe housing, which is connected to an ultrasonic-photoacoustic host. The ultrasonic-photoacoustic host has an imaging interface that displays the detection area and the instrument push guide line.

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