Endoscope

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of endoscope, it can make a part of ultrasonic transducer array contact to object part appropriately.The endoscope has: insertion part, including comprising ultrasonic transducer array front end and the bending portion of the base end side of above-mentioned front end;And bending operation part, the bending operation of above-mentioned bending portion can be carried out, above-mentioned bending portion includes the 1st region and the 2nd region between above-mentioned 1st region and above-mentioned front end, in the case where above-mentioned bending operation part is operated in 1st range, above-mentioned 1st region is bent to the face side in above-mentioned front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is provided, in the case where above-mentioned bending operation part is operated in above-mentioned 1st range, above-mentioned 2nd region remains as the state of extending along the axis of above-mentioned front end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to an endoscope. Background Technology

[0002] Patent documents 1, 3, 5, and 6 describe an endoscope having a curved portion that allows the front end portion to bend more than the base end portion.

[0003] Patent document 2 describes an endoscope having a curved section that can be bent with multiple radii of curvature.

[0004] Patent document 4 describes the following: In the curved section structure of an endoscope formed by connecting multiple segment rings along the axial direction of the insertion section, the spacing between the multiple segment rings connected to form adjacent segment ring bodies gradually becomes larger at the front end side of the curved section than at the base end side of the curved section.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-334050

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-154545

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 02-271817

[0008] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-342517

[0009] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent Implementation License No. 56-124401

[0010] Patent Document 6: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-155806

[0011] Patent Document 7: International Publication No. 2022 / 153798 Utility Model Content

[0012] The present invention provides an endoscope that enables a portion of an ultrasonic transducer array to make appropriate contact with the object.

[0013] One embodiment of the endoscope of this utility model comprises:

[0014] The insertion portion includes a front end containing an ultrasonic transducer array and a curved portion disposed on the base end side of the aforementioned front end; and

[0015] The bending operation unit is capable of performing the bending operation described above.

[0016] The aforementioned curved portion includes a first region and a second region between the first region and the aforementioned front end portion.

[0017] When the aforementioned bending operation section is operated within the first range, the first region bends towards the side of the front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is located.

[0018] When the bending operation portion is operated within the first range, the second region remains in a state that extends along the axis of the front end portion.

[0019] Utility Model Effect

[0020] According to the technology of this utility model, a portion of the ultrasonic transducer array can be made to properly contact the target area. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is an overall view of an ultrasonic endoscope 1, which is one aspect of the technology of this utility model.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the front rigid part 34 of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the front rigid part 34 of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the front rigid part 34 of the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5 It is a three-dimensional view including the front rigid part 34 of the tangent LT.

[0026] Figure 6 It is a side view including the front rigid part 34 of the tangent LT.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the front rigid part 34 of the modified example.

[0028] Figure 8 It is a schematic representation Figure 1 A perspective view of the main part of the curved section 32 of the endoscope 1 shown.

[0029] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An enlarged perspective view of the first movable part 32A shown.

[0030] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An enlarged perspective view of the second movable part 32B shown.

[0031] Figure 11 It schematically represents observation along direction X. Figure 8 A diagram showing the state of the curved portion 32.

[0032] Figure 12 It is used to explain from Figure 11 The diagram shows the bending state of the bent portion 32 when the bent rod 16 rotates in the A1 direction.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of inserting endoscope 1 into the bronchus for use.

[0034] Figure 14 It is used to explain from Figure 12 The diagram shown illustrates the bending state of the bent portion 32 when the rotation angle of the bent rod 16 is increased.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of inserting endoscope 1 into the bronchus for use.

[0036] Figure 16 It is used to explain from Figure 11 The diagram shown illustrates the bending state of the bent portion 32 when the bent rod 16 rotates in the -A1 direction.

[0037] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another state in which the endoscope 1 is inserted into the bronchus for use.

[0038] Symbol Explanation

[0039] 1-Ultrasonic endoscope, 10-Operating part, 12-Insertion part, 14-Universal plug rope, 16-Angle rod, 22-Suction button, 23-Dealing instrument insertion channel, 24-Dealing instrument inlet, 30-Soft part, 32-Bend part, 32A-First movable part, 32B, 32Bb-Second movable part, 320-Modible part, 33-Front-end side connecting part, 33J, 35J-Axis, 34-Front-end rigid part, 34a-Ultrasonic mounting part, 34b-Outlet shape Components, 34c-Main body, 35-Base end side connecting component, 38-Longitudinal axis, 40-Observation optical system, 40a-Observation window, 40b-Lens system, 40c-Image sensor, 44-Illumination optical system, 44a-Illumination window, 50-Ultrasonic transducer, 52-Outlet, 54, 56-Signal cable, 58-Light guide, 60-Ultrasonic block assembly, 62-Optical system block assembly mounting part, 64-Locking part, 65-Mounting part opening, 66-Guide part, 70- Channel block assembly, 71-Opening forming surface, 72-Flange surface, 73-Locking part, 74-Internal tubing, 74a-First tubing, 74b-Second tubing, 80-Optical system block assembly, 81-Channel block assembly mounting part, 81a-Plane, 81b-Supporting surface, 82-Optical system receiving part, 84-Convex surface, 85-Stepped surface, 90-Continuous plane, 100-Puncture needle, 101-Trachea, 102-Main bronchus, 103-Lung, 104-Upper lobe bronchus, 105 -Bronchi, 106-Ipsilateral hilar lymph nodes, 321-Region 1, 322-Region 2, 322A-Part, 322B-Other parts, 323-Connecting components, 324-Wire guides, 325, 326, 327, 328-Connecting pieces, 329-End face, P1, P2-Tutation points, P3-Intersection points, θ1-Effective angle, R1-Irradiation range, L2A-Centerline, L1, L2, L3, L7-Distance, L4-Interval, L5, L6-Length. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Figure 1 This is an overall view of an ultrasonic endoscope 1, which is one aspect of the technology of this utility model. Figure 1 As shown, the ultrasonic endoscope 1 (hereinafter referred to as "endoscope 1") is used for the extraction of cells and tissues from lesions (or observation sites, examination sites, and diagnostic sites). In this embodiment, the lymph nodes of the bronchus are used as an example of lesions.

[0041] The endoscope 1 consists of an operating part 10 held by the surgeon for various operations, an insertion part 12 inserted into the patient's body, and a universal plug 14. The endoscope 1 is connected via the universal plug 14 to system components such as a processor device and a light source device (not shown) that constitute the endoscope system.

[0042] The operating unit 10 is equipped with various operating components operated by the surgeon, such as a bend lever 16 and a suction button 22, which are described later for appropriate operation.

[0043] Furthermore, the operation unit 10 is provided with a device insertion channel 23 for inserting into the insertion unit 12 (see reference). Figure 4 Insert the treatment device into the treatment device inlet 24.

[0044] The insertion part 12 extends from the front end of the operation part 10 and is generally formed into a narrow and elongated shape. The insertion part 12 is configured to have a flexible part 30, a curved part 32 and a front rigid part 34 as the front end part, arranged sequentially from the base end side toward the front end side.

[0045] The flexible portion 30 occupies most of the area from the base end of the insertion portion 12 and has flexibility to bend in any direction. When the insertion portion 12 is inserted into the body cavity, the flexible portion 30 bends along the insertion path into the body cavity.

[0046] By rotating the bending rod 16 of the operating part 10 in the A1 direction and the opposite -A1 direction, the bending part 32 bends in the up and down direction (A2 direction and the opposite -A2 direction). By bending the bending part 32, the front rigid part 34 can be oriented in the desired direction.

[0047] The angle rod 16 is configured as follows: Figure 1 The state shown is a rotation angle of 0°, which can be rotated up to a rotation angle of 45° in the A1 direction. Rotating the bend rod 16 in the A1 direction causes the bending portion 32 to bend in the A2 direction (upward direction). The bend rod 16 is configured to rotate in the -A1 direction to an angle, for example, less than 45° (e.g., 25°). Rotating the bend rod 16 in the -A1 direction causes the bending portion 32 to bend in the -A2 direction (downward direction). The bend rod 16 constitutes a bending operation part capable of performing the bending operation of the bending portion 32.

[0048] Regarding the front-end hardware component 34, details will be provided later. Figures 2 to 4 As described above, the device includes an observation optical system 40 and an illumination optical system 44 for capturing images of an internal organ, an ultrasonic transducer 50 for acquiring ultrasonic images, and an outlet 52 for discharging a treatment device inserted from the treatment device inlet 24.

[0049] Regarding the universal cord 14, details are provided below. Figure 3 and Figure 4The signal cables 54 and 56, and the light guide 58 are shown. A connector (not shown) is provided at the end of the universal plug 14. This connector connects to the processor device, light source device, and other components that constitute the endoscope system. Thus, the endoscope 1 is supplied with the power, control signals, and illumination light required for its operation from the system components. Conversely, observation image data acquired by the observation optical system 40 and ultrasound image data acquired by the ultrasound transducer 50 are transmitted from the endoscope 1 to the system components. Furthermore, the observation image and ultrasound image transmitted to the system components are displayed on a monitor, allowing the surgeon or other personnel to observe them.

[0050] Furthermore, the structure of the operation unit 10 is not limited to... Figure 1 As shown. Alternatively, a bend button can be provided instead of bend rod 16, or a pair of bend rods 16 or a pair of bend buttons can be provided. By rotating the pair of bend rods 16 or the pair of bend buttons, the bending part 32 can be bent in the up-down direction (A2 direction and -A2 direction) and the left-right direction orthogonal to it. Furthermore, an air / water supply button can be provided on the operating part 10, and by operating the air / water supply button, air or other gases and cleaning liquids can be supplied to the front rigid part 34.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a 3D view of the front-end rigid part 34. Figure 3 This is an exploded 3D view of the front-end rigid part 34. Figure 4 This is a sectional view of the front rigid section 34.

[0052] Furthermore, the Z direction in the figure is parallel to the longitudinal axis 38 of the insertion part 12. The Z direction constitutes the longitudinal axis direction of the insertion part 12. The Z(+) direction side, which is one direction of the Z direction in the figure, is the front end side of the insertion part 12, and the Z(-) direction side is the base end side of the insertion part 12. The Y direction in the figure is the first direction perpendicular to the Z direction (in other words, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 38), equivalent to... Figure 1 The A2 direction and the -A2 direction. The Y(+) direction, which is one of the directions of this Y direction, is... Figure 1 The A2 direction, and the Y(-) direction, which is the other direction of the Y direction, are... Figure 1 The -A2 direction. The X direction in the diagram is the second direction, perpendicular to both the Z and Y directions.

[0053] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the front-end rigid part 34 is constructed by combining the ultrasonic block assembly 60, the channel block assembly 70, and the optical system block assembly 80 (especially, referring to...). Figure 3The front-end rigid part 34, in its assembled state, includes an ultrasonic mounting part 34a, an outlet forming part 34b, and a main body part 34c from the front end side of the front-end rigid part 34 toward the base end side (see reference). Figure 2 and Figure 4 ).

[0054] The ultrasonic block assembly 60 is formed of an insulating material (e.g., a resin material such as a plastic like polysulfone or polyetherimide). The ultrasonic block assembly 60 has an ultrasonic mounting portion 34a and an optical system block assembly mounting portion 62 (see reference) from its front end side toward its base end side. Figure 3 In addition, the ultrasonic mounting part 34a is integrally formed with the optical system block assembly mounting part 62.

[0055] Viewed from the X-direction side, the rigid front section 34 has an ultrasonic transducer 50 mounted on the ultrasonic mounting section 34a in a forward-tilted (inclined) position relative to the longitudinal axis 38 towards the Y (-) direction. This ultrasonic transducer 50 is convex, with ultrasonic transducer and receiver surfaces arranged in a curved shape along the longitudinal axis 38 for receiving and transmitting ultrasonic waves. Data for generating ultrasonic images of lymph nodes is acquired by this ultrasonic transducer 50. The ultrasonic transducer 50 constitutes an ultrasonic transducer array. Furthermore, the number of ultrasonic transducers constituting the ultrasonic transducer 50 is not limited.

[0056] Furthermore, when viewing the front rigid portion 34 from the X-direction side, the optical system block assembly mounting portion 62 extends from the region on the Y(-) direction side of the base end of the ultrasonic mounting portion 34a toward its base end side [Z(-) direction side]. Additionally, a locking portion 64 (see reference) is formed on the Y(+) direction side of the base end of the ultrasonic mounting portion 34a to lock the locking portion 73 of the channel block assembly 70 (described later) Figure 4 The locking portion 64, for example, has locking claws that constitute a snap-fit.

[0057] The optical system block assembly mounting section 62 has a generally semi-cylindrical shape corresponding to the Y(-) direction side of the two dividing sections that divide the outlet forming section 34b and the main body section 34c into two (upper and lower) sections in the Y direction (i.e., the lower half of the dividing section). Figure 3 Therefore, the optical system block assembly mounting section 62 has a mounting section opening 65 that opens to the Y(+) direction side.

[0058] The mounting opening 65 is parallel to the XZ plane and formed along the Z direction. Inside the mounting opening 65 of the optical system block assembly mounting section 62, a signal cable 54 connecting the ultrasonic transducer 50 and the system components described above is disposed.

[0059] A pair of guide portions 66 are formed on the optical system block assembly mounting portion 62. These guide portions 66 form a mounting portion opening 65 and extend along the mounting portion opening 65 in the Z (-) direction. The optical system block assembly 80, described later, is mounted on these guide portions 66 while sliding in the Z direction. Thus, the optical system block assembly 80 is mounted on the optical system block assembly mounting portion 62 (i.e., the ultrasonic block assembly 60) via the pair of guide portions 66.

[0060] The channel block assembly 70, together with the optical system block assembly 80 described later, constitutes the outlet forming portion 34b, and is formed of a known metallic material. The channel block assembly 70 has an outlet 52 for a treatment device that opens towards the Y(+) direction, and an opening forming surface 71 of the outlet 52 that is parallel to the XZ plane and along the Z direction (including the longitudinal axis 38, hereinafter the same). Furthermore, in this embodiment, a puncture needle 100 for tissue extraction from lymph nodes is exemplified as a treatment device.

[0061] At both ends of the opening forming surface 71 in the X direction, a pair of flange surfaces 72 parallel to the XZ surface are formed along the Z direction (see reference). Figure 3 A pair of flange surfaces 72 are used to mount the channel block assembly 70 onto the optical system block assembly 80, extending outward (in the X direction) from both ends of the opening forming surface 71 in the X direction.

[0062] Furthermore, a locking portion 73 is formed on the front end side of the channel block assembly 70, which engages with the locking portion 64 of the ultrasonic mounting portion 34a (see reference). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The locking portion 73, for example, has an engagement hole for engaging the locking claw of the locking portion 64.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, an internal conduit 74 is formed inside the channel block assembly 70. The internal conduit 74, together with the treatment device insertion channel 23, constitutes a conduit. The front end of the internal conduit 74 is connected to the outlet 52, and the base end of the internal conduit 74 is connected to the treatment device insertion channel 23 within the insertion portion 12. Thus, the tip of the puncture needle 100 inserted from the treatment device inlet 24 is guided through the treatment device insertion channel 23 and the internal conduit 74 to the outlet 52, and is then discharged to the outside from the outlet 52.

[0064] The optical system block assembly 80 is formed of resin material in the same way as the ultrasonic block assembly 60. The optical system block assembly 80 has a shape corresponding to the Y(+) direction side of the two divisions that divide the outlet forming portion 34b and the main body portion 34c into two (upper and lower) portions in the Y direction (i.e., the upper half portion).

[0065] The optical system block assembly 80 has a pair of channel block assembly mounting portions 81 and optical system receiving portions 82 that are spaced apart in the X direction from its front end side toward its base end side (see reference). Figure 3 In addition, a pair of channel block assembly mounting parts 81 are integrally formed with the optical system receiving part 82.

[0066] When viewed from the X-direction side, the pair of channel block assembly mounting portions 81 extend from a position one level lower than the vertex of the optical system receiving portion 82 on the Y(+) direction side (i.e., relative to the position of the vertex on the Y(-) direction side) towards the front end side [Z(+) direction side] of the optical system receiving portion 82.

[0067] Between a pair of channel block assembly mounting portions 81, space is ensured for mounting the channel block assembly 70. A pair of flat surfaces 81a and a pair of support surfaces 81b are formed at the ends of the pair of channel block assembly mounting portions 81 on the Y(+) direction side (see reference). Figure 3 A pair of planes 81a have a shape that is parallel to the XZ plane and along the Z direction.

[0068] A pair of support surfaces 81b are surfaces parallel to a pair of planes 81a. The pair of support surfaces 81b are formed at positions that are displaced from the pair of planes 81a toward the aforementioned spatial side and at positions that are lower than the thickness of the pair of flange surfaces 72 in the Y direction relative to the pair of planes 81a in the Y (-) direction.

[0069] A pair of support surfaces 81b support a pair of flange surfaces 72 from both sides in the X direction. Therefore, via the pair of flange surfaces 72 and the pair of support surfaces 81b, the channel block assembly 70 is slidably supported in the Z direction between a pair of channel block assembly mounting portions 81. This allows the channel block assembly 70 to be mounted on the optical system block assembly 80 while sliding in the Z direction. Then, the channel block assembly 70 is bonded and fixed to the optical system block assembly 80.

[0070] If the channel block assembly 70 is mounted on the optical system block assembly 80, the opening forming surface 71 and a pair of planes 81a form a continuous plane 90 (forming the first surface) (see reference). Figure 2 The continuous plane 90 is a plane parallel to the XZ plane and along the Z direction, forming part of the outer peripheral surface of the front rigid part 34. In addition, in this embodiment, the continuous plane 90 is planar, but it can also be a surface of various shapes such as curved surface, inclined surface, or concave-convex surface.

[0071] The optical system housing 82 has a generally semi-cylindrical shape and includes a convex surface 84 and a stepped surface 85. The convex surface 84 forms the second surface and is part of the outer peripheral surface of the front rigid portion 34 (optical system housing 82). The convex surface 84 is located further to the Y(+) direction than the continuous plane 90 and has a shape along the Z direction. In addition, the convex surface 84 can also be formed into various shapes such as curved surfaces, inclined surfaces, or concave-convex surfaces.

[0072] The stepped surface 85 is an inclined surface connecting the base side of the continuous plane 90 and the front end side of the convex surface 84, forming part of the outer peripheral surface of the front rigid part 34. In addition, the inclined surface mentioned here also includes a vertical surface with an inclination angle of 90° relative to the Z direction.

[0073] An observation window 40a of an observation optical system 40 and an illumination window 44a of a pair of illumination optical systems 44 are provided on the stepped surface 85.

[0074] The observation optical system 40 includes an observation window 40a disposed on the stepped surface 85, a lens system 40b disposed within the optical system housing 82, and an image sensor 40c. The image sensor 40c is a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) type image sensor, which captures the observation image read from the observation window 40a via the lens system 40b. Then, the image sensor 40c outputs the image signal to the system assembly via a signal cable 56 inserted into the insertion portion 12.

[0075] The illumination optical system 44 is disposed on both sides of the observation optical system 40 in the X direction, and includes an illumination window 44a disposed on the stepped surface 85 and a light guide 58 inserted into the insertion part 12. An emission end of the light guide 58 is disposed behind each illumination window 44a. Thus, illumination light supplied from the system configuration device to each light guide 58 is emitted from each illumination window 44a.

[0076] With the channel block assembly 70 installed, the optical system block assembly 80 slides in the Z direction via a pair of guides 66 and is simultaneously mounted on the optical system block assembly mounting portion 62 of the ultrasonic block assembly 60. At this time, the locking portion 64 of the ultrasonic mounting portion 34a locks the locking portion 73 of the channel block assembly 70. As a result, the movement of the channel block assembly 70 and the optical system block assembly 80 relative to the ultrasonic block assembly 60 in the Z direction is restricted, and the channel block assembly 70 is assembled onto the ultrasonic block assembly 60.

[0077] Furthermore, the front end of the curved portion 32 is externally fixed to the base end of both the optical system receiving portion 82 and the optical system block assembly mounting portion 62 (see reference). Figure 4 Thus, the optical system housing 82 and the optical system block assembly mounting portion 62 are held together by the bending portion 32 so that they are inseparable in the Y direction. As a result, the optical system block assembly 80 is assembled onto the ultrasonic block assembly 60.

[0078] As described above, the ultrasonic block assembly 60, the channel block assembly 70, and the optical system block assembly 80 are combined to form the front rigid section 34. In this front rigid section 34, an ultrasonic transducer 50, an outlet 52, and a stepped surface 85 (observation window 40a) are sequentially arranged from its front end side towards its base end side. That is, the outlet 52 is arranged between the ultrasonic transducer 50 and the observation window 40a. Therefore, the lymph nodes punctured by the puncture needle 100 through the bronchial wall can be observed through the observation optical system 40.

[0079] The rigid front end 34 of this embodiment has a shape that increases the contact area between the base end of the ultrasound transducer 50 on the Z(-) direction side (i.e., the base end on the outlet 52 side of the puncture needle 100) and the bronchial wall when acquiring lymph node ultrasound images by endoscope 1. This shape will be described in detail below.

[0080] Figure 5 It is a three-dimensional view including the front rigid part 34 of the tangent LT. Figure 6 This is a side view including the front rigid portion 34 of the tangent LT. (See image) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the shape of the front rigid portion 34, which can increase the contact area between the base end of the ultrasonic transducer 50 and the bronchial wall, is defined by using the tangent LT and the effective angle θ1 of the ultrasonic transducer 50.

[0081] The tangent LT is a line that is tangent to the ultrasonic transducer 50 and tangent to the stepped surface 85 at its position (vertices) closest to the Y(+) direction. Here, the point where the tangent LT contacts the ultrasonic transducer 50 is designated as the tangent point P1 (forming the first intersection point), and the point where the tangent LT contacts the stepped surface 85 is designated as the tangent point P2.

[0082] The effective angle θ1 of the ultrasonic transducer 50 represents the angle of the irradiation range R1 of the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic transducer 50 when viewed from the X-direction side of the front rigid part 34. Furthermore, Figure 6 The single-dotted line R1a in the figure represents the boundary of a range of 1 / 3 (θ2=1 / 3×θ1) starting from the base side of the effective angle θ1 [Z(-) direction side].

[0083] like Figure 6As shown, when viewing the rigid front portion 34 from the X-direction side, if the rigid front portion 34 is brought into contact with the bronchial wall, then as shown by the tangent LT, tangent points P1 and P2 will contact the bronchial wall. In this case, the area between tangent points P1 and P2 in the rigid front portion 34 becomes an area that is difficult to contact with the bronchial wall, while the area further anterior than tangent point P1 becomes an area that is easy to contact with the bronchial wall. Therefore, in the base of the ultrasonic transducer 50, the area further anterior than tangent point P1 becomes easy to contact with the bronchial wall, while the area further posterior than tangent point P1 becomes difficult to contact with the bronchial wall.

[0084] Therefore, in this embodiment, the shape of the front rigid part 34 is adjusted so that the tangent point P1 is contained within 1 / 3 of the effective angle θ1 at the base (the range of angle θ2 in the figure). This adjustment of the shape of the front rigid part 34 includes adjustments to the shape, mounting position, and orientation of the ultrasonic transducer 50, as well as adjustments to the shape, formation position, and tilt angle of the stepped surface 85. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the tangent point P1 is contained within 1 / 4 of the effective angle θ1 at the base.

[0085] By adjusting the shape of the rigid front portion 34 to contact the bronchial wall and further observing the rigid front portion 34 from the X-direction side, the area between the single-dot dummy line R1a and the tangent point P1 at the base of the ultrasonic transducer 50 can reliably contact the bronchial wall (see reference). Figure 6 That is, a portion of the base of the ultrasonic transducer 50 can reliably contact the bronchial wall. As a result, the contact area of ​​the base of the ultrasonic transducer 50 relative to the bronchial wall can be increased.

[0086] Furthermore, by adjusting the shape of the front rigid part 34 to shift the position of the tangent point P1 further towards the base end side [Z(-) direction side], the contact area of ​​the base end of the ultrasonic transducer 50 relative to the bronchial wall can be further increased.

[0087] As described above, by adjusting the shape of the front rigid portion 34 so that the tangent point P1 when viewed from the X-direction side is contained within 1 / 3 of the effective angle θ1 of the ultrasonic transducer 50 at the base end, the contact area of ​​the base end of the ultrasonic transducer 50 relative to the bronchial wall can be reliably increased. Therefore, an ultrasonic image of the lymph node can be reliably drawn from the base end of the ultrasonic transducer 50.

[0088] Next, a modified example of the front rigid part 34 will be described. In the front rigid part 34 of the above embodiments, by arranging the ultrasonic transducer 50, the outlet 52 and the stepped surface 85 (observation window 40a) from its front end side toward the base end side, the lymph node punctured by the puncture needle 100 through the bronchial wall can be observed by the observation optical system 40.

[0089] In contrast, in the modified example, the front rigid part 34 specifically specifies the conditions for reliably observing the puncture of the lymph nodes through the observation optical system 40. Furthermore, the front rigid part 34 of the modified example has a structure substantially the same as that of the front rigid part 34 in the above embodiment; therefore, parts that are functionally or structurally the same as those in the above embodiment are marked with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted, as are the effects that are the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the front rigid part 34 in the modified example. (Example) Figure 7 As shown, the internal conduit 74, when viewed from the X-direction side as a rigid front end 34, has a shape that is bent into two segments. Specifically, the internal conduit 74 is composed of a first conduit 74a and a second conduit 74b. The first conduit 74a is connected to the outlet 52 within the channel block assembly 70. The second conduit 74b is located at the base end of the first conduit 74a. The front end of the treatment device insertion channel 23 is connected to the second conduit 74b.

[0091] When viewing the rigid front section 34 from the X-direction side, the intersection point P3 (forming the second intersection point) of the tangent LT and the center line L2A of the first conduit 74a is located closer to the base end of the rigid front section 34 than the tangent point P1, preferably within the range W between the ultrasonic transducer 50 and the observation window 40a. Furthermore, when the outlet 52 opens to the base end of the rigid front section 34 further than the stepped surface 85 (observation window 40a), the intersection point P3 is located closer to the base end of the rigid front section 34 than the tangent point P1.

[0092] The intersection point P3 corresponds to the location where the puncture needle 100, extending from the outlet 52, begins to puncture the lymph node from the bronchial wall when the ultrasonic transducer 50 is in contact with the bronchial wall. Then, because the intersection point P3 is located within the range W (i.e., in front of the observation window 40a), the puncture of the lymph node from the bronchial wall by the puncture needle 100 can be reliably observed by the observation optical system 40.

[0093] Figure 8 It is a schematic representation Figure 1The diagram shows a perspective view of the main part of the curved section 32 of the endoscope 1. The curved section 32 includes: a plurality of movable parts 320 arranged in the Z direction; a base-side connecting member 35 connecting the movable part 320 closest to the base side (Z(-) direction side) to the flexible part 30; a front-side connecting member 33 connecting the movable part 320 closest to the front side (Z(+) direction side) to the front rigid part 34; and two steel wires W inserted into the interior of each movable part 320, the base-side connecting member 35, and the front-side connecting member 33. Although the diagram is omitted, the plurality of movable parts 320 are covered by a covering member, and an outer skin for the insertion part 12 is provided on its outer periphery.

[0094] The bending portion 32 includes a first region 321 and a second region 322 between the first region 321 and the front rigid portion 34. The first region 321 and the second region 322 are configured to be able to bend with different radii of curvature. Specifically, the first region 321 is configured to be able to bend with a first radius of curvature, and the second region 322 is configured to be able to bend with a second radius of curvature smaller than the first radius of curvature. That is, the bending portion 32 is configured to bend less at its base end and bend more at its front end.

[0095] Movable part 320 Figure 8 There are a total of 19 examples. The first region 321 is composed of 12 movable parts 32θ arranged from the base end side connecting part 35 of the 19 movable parts 320. The second region 322 is composed of 7 movable parts 320 arranged from the front end side connecting part 33 of the 19 movable parts 320.

[0096] Each of the plurality of movable parts 320 is composed of a cylindrical part having an axis extending along the Z direction. The plurality of movable parts 320 includes a first movable part 32A and a second movable part 32B whose width in the Z direction is smaller than that of the first movable part 32A. Among the 19 movable parts 320, the movable parts 320 counted from the base end connecting part 35 side up to the 10th are the first movable parts 32A, and the movable parts 320 counted from the base end connecting part 35 side onwards are the second movable parts 32B.

[0097] The first region 321 comprises 10 first movable parts 32A and two second movable parts 32B. The second region 322 comprises 7 second movable parts 32B. The first movable part 32A located at the base end of the first region 321 is rotatably connected to a cylindrical base end connecting part 35. The second movable part 32B located at the front end of the second region 322 is rotatably connected to a cylindrical front end connecting part 33.

[0098] Two steel wires W pass through the flexible part 30 and are connected to the bend rod 16. Each movable part 320, the base-side connecting part 35, and the front-side connecting part 33 are made of, for example, metal or resin. The front end of each steel wire W is fixed to the front-side connecting part 33.

[0099] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An enlarged perspective view of the first movable part 32A shown. Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An enlarged perspective view of the second movable part 32B shown.

[0100] The Z(+) direction end face 329 and the Z(-) direction end face 329 of the first movable part 32A are respectively planes perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0101] In the first movable member 32A, a connecting piece 325 is provided at one end in the X direction, protruding from the end face 329 on the Z(+) direction side toward the Z(+) direction, and a connecting piece 326 is provided at one end in the X direction, protruding from the end face 329 on the Z(-) direction side toward the Z(-) direction. Both connecting pieces 325 and 326 are plate-shaped with thickness in the X direction. Connecting holes penetrating along the X direction are provided in both connecting pieces 325 and 326.

[0102] In the first movable member 32A, a connecting piece 327 protruding from the Z(+) direction end face 329 in the Z(+) direction is provided at one end in the X direction, and a connecting piece 328 protruding from the Z(-) direction end face 329 in the Z(-) direction is provided at the other end. The connecting pieces 327 and 328 are plate-shaped with thickness in the X direction. Connecting holes penetrating in the X direction are provided in both the connecting pieces 327 and 328.

[0103] On the inner circumferential surface of the first movable member 32A, a pair of wire guides 324 are provided opposite each other in the Y direction between one end in the X direction and the other end, for the two wires W to be inserted through.

[0104] like Figure 10 As shown, the second movable member 32B has the same structure as the first movable member 32A, except that its width in the Z direction (the distance between the end face 329 on the Z(+) direction side and the end face 329 on the Z(-) direction side) is smaller than that of the first movable member 32A.

[0105] like Figure 8As shown, among all movable parts 320, except for the two closest to the base end and the two closest to the front end, the connecting piece 325 of each movable part 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting piece 326 of its adjacent movable part 320 on its front end side via connecting members 323 such as rivets. The connecting piece 326 of each movable part 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting piece 325 of its adjacent movable part 320 on its base end side via connecting members such as rivets. The connecting piece 327 of each movable part 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting piece 328 of its adjacent movable part 320 on its front end side via connecting members such as rivets. The connecting piece 328 of each movable part 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting piece 327 of its adjacent movable part 320 on its base end side via connecting members such as rivets.

[0106] The movable part 320 located on the base end side of all movable parts 320 is rotatably connected to the base end side connecting part 35 via connecting parts 323 such as rivets on connecting pieces 326 and 328. The movable part 320 located on the front end side of all movable parts 320 is rotatably connected to the front end side connecting part 33 via connecting parts 325 and 327 via connecting parts 323 such as rivets.

[0107] In endoscope 1, the wire W inserted into the wire guide 324 of the movable part 320 on the Y(+) direction side is pulled by the rotation operation of the bend rod 16 in the A1 direction, thereby bending the bend 32 in the Y(+) direction. Figure 1 The wire W inserted in the wire guide 324 of the movable part 320, which is located on the Y(-) direction side, is pulled by the rotation operation of the bend rod 16 in the -A1 direction, thereby bending the bent part 32 in the Y(-) direction. Figure 1 (in the -A2 direction) bending.

[0108] Figure 11 It schematically represents observation along direction X. Figure 8 A diagram showing the state of the curved portion 32. (See diagram below.) Figure 11 As shown, a gap is provided between the end faces 329 of two adjacent first movable members 32A, and the length of this gap in the Z direction is called distance L1. A gap is provided between the end faces 329 of two adjacent second movable members 32B, and the length of this gap in the Z direction is called distance L2. A gap is provided between the end faces 329 of the 10th first movable member 32A counting from the base end side and its adjacent second movable member 32B, and the length of this gap in the Z direction is called distance L3. The spacing L4 in the Z direction between the connecting members 323 that rotatably connect the adjacent movable members 320 is generally uniform.

[0109] Since the interval L4 is uniform, the distance L2 becomes greater than the distance L1 due to the difference in width between the first movable member 32A and the second movable member 32B in the Z direction. The distance L3 becomes the sum of half of the distance L2 and half of the distance L1.

[0110] The length of the gap in the Z direction between the base-end connecting member 35 and its adjacent first movable member 32A is a distance L7. Distance L7 is preferably greater than distance L1. Furthermore, distance L7 is preferably less than distance L2. Distance L7 is preferably the same as, or less than, distance L3. This makes it easier to suppress the length of the first region 321 in the Z direction while increasing the bending angle when the first region 321 bends to its maximum extent.

[0111] like Figure 11 As shown, the portion extending from the front end face of the base-side connecting member 35 to the base end face 329 of the 7th second movable member 32B counted from the front end-side connecting member 33 constitutes the first region 321. Furthermore, the portion extending from the base end face of the front end-side connecting member 33 to the base end face 329 of the 7th second movable member 32B counted from the front end-side connecting member 33 constitutes the second region 322. The Z-direction length L5 of the first region 321 is preferably L6 or greater than the Z-direction length L6 of the second region 322.

[0112] When the rotation angle of the bend rod 16 is 0°, such as Figure 11 As shown, the axis 35J of the base-side connecting member 35 and the axis 33J of the front-side connecting member 33 are aligned in a straight line, and the angle between the two axes 35J and 33J is 0°. The axis 33J is aligned with the axis of the front rigid part 34. The axis 35J is aligned with the axis of the flexible part 30. If the bend rod 16 is rotated, the axis 33J of the front-side connecting member 33 tilts relative to the axis 35J of the base-side connecting member 35, and the angle between the two axes gradually increases. The angle between the two axes 35J and 33J is defined as the bending angle of the bend 32. Figure 11 In this state, the bending angle is 0°.

[0113] The bending angle of the bent portion 32 when the bend rod 16 is rotated to its maximum extent in the A1 direction (when the rotation angle is 45°) (the second upper limit of the bending angle when rotating in the A1 direction) is also recorded as the maximum bending angle in the A2 direction. If it is considered that the surface of the ultrasonic transducer 50 side of the front rigid portion 34 can easily and properly contact the desired part in the bronchus, the maximum bending angle in the A2 direction is preferably set to a range of 165° or more and 195° or less, and more preferably 180°.

[0114] The bending angle of the bent portion 32 when the bend rod 16 is rotated to its maximum value in the -A1 direction (the third upper limit of the bending angle when rotating in the -A1 direction) is also described as the maximum bending angle in the -A2 direction. Considering the optimization of bronchial shape conformity, operability, and manufacturing cost, the maximum bending angle in the -A2 direction is preferably smaller than the maximum bending angle in the A2 direction. The maximum bending angle in the -A2 direction is preferably set to a range of 75° or more and 115° or less, and more preferably to 90°.

[0115] Figure 12 It is used to explain from Figure 11 The diagram shows the bending state of the bent portion 32 when the bent rod 16 rotates in the A1 direction. Figure 12 The Y and Z directions shown are illustrated as the directions of the curved portion 32 when it extends in a straight line in the vertical direction (the curved portion 32 is not curved).

[0116] When the angled rod 16 is rotated in the direction of A1 within the first range (the range where the rotation angle is greater than 0° and less than 25°), such as Figure 12 As shown, in the first region 321 and the second region 322, only the first region 321 bends in the Y(+) direction. On the other hand, the second region 322 remains in a state of extending along the axis 33J (which has the same meaning as the axis of the front rigid part 34).

[0117] Figure 12 This illustrates the state where the bend rod 16 is rotated within the first region described above, resulting in a maximum bending angle (angle θ3) (the state where the bend rod 16 rotates at an angle of 25°). Until the bend rod 16 reaches a rotation angle of 25°, the gaps between the base-end connecting member 35 and its adjacent movable member 320, the gaps between the movable members 320 included in the first region 321, and the gap between the most foremost movable member 320 in the first region 321 and its adjacent foremost movable member 320 change in a gradually narrowing direction, and the first region 321 bends in the Y(+) direction.

[0118] On the other hand, during the bending of the first region 321, the gaps between the movable parts 320 included in the second region 322 and the gap between the front end connecting part 33 and its adjacent movable part 320 are maintained. Figure 11 The state shown. Figure 12 The angle θ3 shown is 90° for example. Thus, from a bending angle of 0° to 90°, the orientation of the front rigid part 34 can be changed while keeping the second region 322 in a straight line.

[0119] Figure 13This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of endoscope 1 being inserted into the bronchus for use. Figure 13 The diagram shows the subject's trachea 101, the subject's lungs 103, a pair of main bronchi 102 branching left and right and downward from the trachea 101, and bronchi 105 branching upward from the main bronchi 102 via the superior lobe branch 104. In the clinical setting, the ipsilateral hilar lymph nodes 106 located deep above the main bronchi 102 are sometimes treated.

[0120] As described above, the endoscope 1 is capable of bending the first region 321 with a large radius of curvature while keeping the second region 322 in a straight line. Figure 13 As shown, by bending the first region 321, the front rigid part 34 can be smoothly inserted along a gentle and long curved path from the trachea 101 to the main bronchus 102.

[0121] exist Figure 13 In the state shown, if the first region 321 is further bent in the direction B (equivalent to the Y(+) direction) in the figure, the front rigid part 34 moves in the direction C in the figure. By maintaining a straight shape through the second region 322, the tangent point P1 of the front rigid part 34 (reference) Figure 5 The relative position of the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 does not change significantly, allowing it to move. Therefore, it is easy to make the area near the tangent point P1 of the anterior rigid part 34 contact the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106.

[0122] For example, suppose there is a structure where the base side of the curved portion 32 remains straight while only the front side is curved, as in the prior art. In this structure, it would be difficult to insert the rigid front portion 34 into the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 deep within the main bronchus 102.

[0123] Furthermore, it is assumed that the bending portion 32 is bent as a whole according to the rotation operation of the bending rod 16. In this structure, during the process of inserting the front rigid portion 34 deep into the main bronchus 102, the ultrasound transducer 50 may be oriented towards the basal side, making it difficult to align the area near the cutting point P1 with the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106.

[0124] According to the endoscope 1 of this method, the area near the incision point P1 can be easily positioned opposite the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 located deep and superior to the main bronchus 102. Therefore, the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 can be treated with high precision while being observed via ultrasound imaging.

[0125] Furthermore, in order to ensure that the ultrasonic transducer 50 contacts the wall of the main bronchus 102 near the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106, the bending angle of the curved portion 32 only needs to be approximately 50° to 65° when the second region 322 is kept in a straight position. That is, the first upper limit value of the bending angle of the curved portion 32 when the second region 322 is kept in a straight position (the state in which the bend rod 16 is rotated within the aforementioned first range) Figure 12 The angle θ3 shown should be set to at least 50° and below 65°.

[0126] However, when performing procedures such as biopsy on the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106, the puncture needle 100 is inserted into the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 with the ultrasound transducer 50 in contact with the wall of the main bronchus 102. During the puncture of the puncture needle 100, sometimes the first region 321... Figure 13 If the ultrasonic transducer 50 moves back about 30° in the opposite direction of direction B, it may move away from the wall of the main bronchus 102.

[0127] Therefore, the aforementioned first upper limit value is preferably set to a range greater than 50° and less than 65°. This allows for... Figure 13 In the indicated state (e.g., a bending angle of 60°), the puncture needle 100 is punctured while the first region 321 is further bent in the direction of B. This allows the puncture needle 100 to be inserted into the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 while preventing the ultrasound transducer 50 from moving away from the wall of the main bronchus 102.

[0128] From the viewpoint of properly observing and managing the ipsilateral hilar lymph nodes 106, the aforementioned first upper limit is preferably set to 50° or more and 100° or less, more preferably 60° or more and 95° or less, and even more preferably 90°.

[0129] Figure 14 It is used to explain from Figure 12 The diagram shown illustrates the bending state of the bent portion 32 when the rotation angle of the bend rod 16 is increased. When the bend rod 16 is rotated in the A1 direction within a second range (a range where the rotation angle is greater than 25° and less than 45°) beyond the first range, as... Figure 14 As shown, in regions 321 and 322, only region 322 is curved. On the other hand, region 321 remains unchanged. Figure 12 The bending state shown is the bending state when the rotation angle is 25° (the rotation angle of the end of the second range side in the first range).

[0130] Figure 14This illustrates the state where the bend rod 16 is rotated within the second region described above, reaching its maximum bending angle (180° in the illustration) (a state where the bend rod 16 rotates at a 45° angle). Until the bend rod 16 exceeds a 25° rotation angle and reaches a 45° rotation angle, all movable parts 320 included in the second region 322, except for the two on the front end side... Figure 14 The gaps between the five movable parts 320 (excluding those marked with symbol 32Bb) gradually decrease, causing a portion 322A of the second region 322 (the portion closer to the base end than the two movable parts 32Bb) to bend with a smaller radius of curvature than the first region 321. Figure 14 As shown, when the angled rod 16 is rotated at a rotation angle of 45°, the axes of the two movable parts 32Bb are aligned with the axis 33J of the front-end connecting part 33. That is, even when the angled rod 16 is rotated to its maximum extent in the A1 direction, the remaining part 322B in the second region 322, excluding part 322A, remains straight.

[0131] Thus, the other portion 322B of the second region 322 is configured to be unable to undergo bending operations based on the rotation of the bend rod 16. In this configuration, by limiting the rotatable range of the bend rod 16, the other portion 322B will not bend. However, if an external force is applied to the other portion 322B, it can bend in the Y(+) and Y(-) directions with the same radius of curvature as part 322A, respectively. Because the other portion 322B is straight, the puncture needle 100 can be smoothly withdrawn from the outlet 52. Furthermore, the other portion 322B is not essential in the second region 322 and can be omitted.

[0132] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the insertion of endoscope 1 into the bronchus for use. In clinical settings, observation or treatment may sometimes be performed around the bronchus 105, which branches upward from the superior lobe bronchus 104.

[0133] When the rigid tip 34 is inserted into the bronchus 105, the first region 321 can be bent while the rigid tip 34 is smoothly inserted along a gentle and relatively long curved path from the trachea 101 to the superior lobe bronchus 104. Furthermore, since the second region 322 can be bent with a small radius of curvature from the maximally bent state of the first region 321, therefore... Figure 15 As shown, the rigid front end 34 can be easily inserted into the depth of the bronchus 105, which branches at an acute angle relative to the path from the trachea 101 to the upper lobe 104.

[0134] Even when the rigid front part 34 is inserted into the bronchioles, the insertion can be performed smoothly because the other parts 322B of the second region 322 are passively able to bend.

[0135] Furthermore, when the second region 322 is bent from the state of maximum bending of the first region 321, the bent state of the first region 321 is maintained. Therefore, it is possible to bend the second region 322 to change the orientation of the front rigid part 34 while stabilizing the first region 321 by contacting the wall of the main bronchus 102, for example.

[0136] Thus, in order to smoothly insert the rigid anterior portion 34 along the path from the trachea 101 through the main bronchus 102 to the superior lobe bronchus 104, and from the superior lobe bronchus 104 to the superior lateral bronchus 105, Figure 11 The relationship between the length L5 of the first region 321 and the length L6 of the second region 322 shown is important.

[0137] When the length L6 is greater than the length L5, it is not easy to operate the rigid front part 34 from the upper lobe bronchus 104 in the narrow space at the front end. In contrast, by setting the lengths L6 and L5 to be the same, the rigid front part 34 can be easily operated from the upper lobe bronchus 104 in the narrow space at the front end, while the rigid front part 34 can be inserted deep into the bronchus 105.

[0138] Furthermore, if the length L6 is set to be less than the length L5, the rigid front part 34 can be more easily operated from the upper lobe 104 in the narrow space at the front end. However, if the length L6 is too small, it is not easy to insert the rigid front part 34 deep into the bronchus 105. Also, if the length L6 is too small, it is not easy to increase the amount of bending in the second region 322.

[0139] And, as Figure 13 As shown, when the rigid anterior portion 34 is brought close to the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106, if the length L6 is too large, it becomes difficult to move the rigid anterior portion 34 deeper into the main bronchus 102. Furthermore, if the length L6 is too small, for example, when the base of the first region 321 is inserted into the main bronchus 102, the rigid anterior portion 34 needs to be bent towards the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106, such as... Figure 13 As shown, with the base of the first region 321 stabilized by the wall of the trachea 101, it is difficult to perform the operation of bending the first region 321 so that the rigid front part 34 is close to the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106.

[0140] Based on the results of repeated verifications of the above situations, it can be seen that by setting the length L6 to be more than 0.5 times and less than 1.0 times the length L5, the operability and treatment accuracy when bringing the rigid front part 34 close to the ipsilateral hilar lymph node 106 can be improved, and the operability of the insertion can be improved when inserting the rigid front part 34 into the bronchus 105.

[0141] Alternatively, as an example, it is preferable to set the length L5 to 34.5 mm, the length L6 to 19.6 mm, the distance L1 to 0.2 mm, the distance L2 to 0.95 mm, the distance L3 to 0.575 mm, the interval L4 to 2.8 mm, the distance L7 to 0.5 mm, the outer diameter of the movable part 320 to 6.3 mm, and the bending R of the second region 322 to R6.

[0142] As described above, when performing bronchial inspection or treatment, it is preferable to set the second upper limit of the bending angle of the bending portion 32 when operating the bending rod 16 within the second range to be 165° or higher and 195° or lower. Therefore, as described above, the front rigid portion 34 can be appropriately brought close to the bronchus branching at an acute angle from the upper lobe branch 104.

[0143] Figure 16 It is used to explain from Figure 11 The diagram shown illustrates the bending state of the bent portion 32 when the bent rod 16 rotates in the -A1 direction. Figure 16 The Y and Z directions shown are illustrated as the directions of the curved portion 32 when it extends in a straight line in the vertical direction (the curved portion 32 is not curved).

[0144] like Figure 16 As shown, when the bend rod 16 is rotated in the -A1 direction within the third range (a range where the rotation angle is greater than 0° and less than 25°), only the first region 321 bends in the Y (-) direction, while the second region 322 remains extended along the axis 33J (which has the same meaning as the axis of the front rigid part 34).

[0145] Regarding the bending state of the bending part 32 when the bending rod 16 is rotated in the -A1 direction within the third range, it is the same as when the bending part 32 is rotated in the A1 direction within the first range, except that the bending direction of the bending part 32 is the Y(-) direction. Figure 16 This illustrates the state where the bending rod 16 is rotated within the third range described above, resulting in a maximum bending angle (angle θ4). For example, angle θ4 is 90°. Angle θ4 is preferably the same as angle θ3, but it can also be less than angle θ3.

[0146] In this configuration, the bend rod 16 can only rotate within a third range relative to the -A1 direction. That is, when the bend rod 16 is rotated, the third upper limit value (angle θ4) of the bending angle of the bending portion 32 in the Y(-) direction is less than the second upper limit value mentioned above.

[0147] like Figure 17 As shown, if we imagine inserting the rigid tip 34 into a bronchus further down than the upper leaf support 104, the maximum bending angle in the Y(-) direction is sufficient even if it is smaller than the maximum bending angle in the Y(+) direction. Thus, by configuring it to bend sufficiently in the Y(-) direction, we can perform operations corresponding to the desired observation area without waste. In particular, when inserting the rigid tip 34 into a narrow region such as a bronchus, it is preferable to bend only the necessary amount; from this viewpoint, it is also preferable that the maximum bending angle in the Y(-) direction is smaller than the maximum bending angle in the Y(+) direction.

[0148] As explained above, at least the following items are described in this instruction manual. (1)

[0150] An endoscope that has the following features:

[0151] The insertion portion includes a front end containing an ultrasonic transducer array and a curved portion disposed on the base end side of the aforementioned front end; and

[0152] The bending operation unit is capable of performing the bending operation described above.

[0153] The aforementioned curved portion includes a first region and a second region between the first region and the aforementioned front end portion.

[0154] When the aforementioned bending operation section is operated within the first range, the first region bends towards the side of the front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is located.

[0155] When the bending operation portion is operated within the first range, the second region remains in a state that extends along the axis of the front end portion. (2)

[0157] According to the endoscope described in (1), wherein,

[0158] The aforementioned front end has an outlet for the treatment device on the side closer to the aforementioned curved portion than the aforementioned ultrasonic transducer array. (3)

[0160] According to the endoscope described in (2), wherein,

[0161] When the bending operation part is operated within the first range, the first upper limit value of the bending angle of the bending part is 50° or more and 100° or less. (4)

[0163] According to the endoscope described in (3), wherein,

[0164] The first upper limit mentioned above is 60° or higher and 95° or lower. (5)

[0166] According to any one of (1) to (4) of the endoscope, wherein,

[0167] When the bending operation is operated in a second range that exceeds the first range, at least a portion of the second region bends toward the face of the front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is provided. (6)

[0169] According to the endoscope described in (5), wherein,

[0170] When the bending operation part is operated within the second range, the first region maintains the bending state as when the bending operation part was operated to the end of the second range side of the first range. (7)

[0172] According to the endoscope described in (6), wherein,

[0173] The end portion on the front end side of the second region described above is configured such that bending operations based on the bending operation portion cannot be performed. (8)

[0175] According to the endoscope described in (7), wherein,

[0176] The aforementioned end portion on the front end side of the second region is configured to be able to bend under external force. (9)

[0178] According to any one of (5) to (8) of the above-mentioned endoscopes, wherein,

[0179] When the bending operation part is operated within the second range, the second upper limit value of the bending angle of the bending part is 165° or more and 195° or less. (10)

[0181] According to the endoscope described in (9), wherein,

[0182] The aforementioned curved portion can further bend toward the opposite side of the face at the aforementioned front end where the aforementioned ultrasonic transducer array is disposed.

[0183] The third upper limit value of the bending angle to the opposite side when the bending operation part is operated is less than the second upper limit value. (11)

[0185] According to the endoscope described in (10), wherein,

[0186] The third upper limit value is below the upper limit value of the bending angle of the bending part when the bending operation part is operated within the first range. (12)

[0188] According to any one of (1) to (11) of the endoscope, wherein,

[0189] The length of the second region in the longitudinal direction of the insertion part is less than or equal to the length of the first region in the longitudinal direction. (13)

[0191] According to the endoscope described in (12), wherein,

[0192] The length of the second region in the longitudinal direction of the insertion part is at least 0.5 times the length of the first region in the longitudinal direction. (14)

[0194] According to any one of (1) to (13) of the endoscope, wherein,

[0195] The outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned front end portion includes:

[0196] The first side is disposed on the base end side of the ultrasonic transducer array and along the longitudinal axis of the insertion part.

[0197] The second surface is disposed on the base end side of the first surface, along the longitudinal axis, and located on a side perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in a first direction relative to the first surface; and

[0198] A stepped surface connects the base end of the first surface to the front end of the second surface.

[0199] When the direction perpendicular to both the aforementioned longitudinal axis and the aforementioned first direction is defined as the second direction, and the angle representing the irradiation range of the ultrasonic waves emitted from the aforementioned ultrasonic transducer array when viewed from the aforementioned second direction side is defined as the effective angle, and the intersection point of the tangent line that is tangent to the aforementioned ultrasonic transducer array and tangent to the aforementioned stepped surface at the position closest to the aforementioned direction side with the aforementioned ultrasonic transducer array is defined as the first intersection point, the aforementioned first intersection point is included within the range of the base side 1 / 3 of the aforementioned effective angle. (15)

[0201] The endoscope according to (14) has the following features:

[0202] An outlet is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned front end, opening to one of the aforementioned directions and discharging the treatment device;

[0203] The conduit, connected within the aforementioned front end to the aforementioned outlet, allows the aforementioned treatment device to be inserted; and

[0204] The observation window for the optical system is located on the aforementioned stepped surface.

[0205] When viewed from the second direction, the intersection of the center line of the front end of the pipe connected to the outlet and the tangent, i.e., the second intersection point, is located closer to the base end of the front end than the first intersection point. (16)

[0207] According to the endoscope described in (15), wherein,

[0208] The second intersection point is located between the ultrasonic transducer array and the stepped surface.

Claims

1. An endoscope, characterized in that, have: The insertion portion includes a front end containing an ultrasonic transducer array and a curved portion disposed on the base end side of the front end; and The bending operation unit is capable of performing bending operations on the bending section. The curved portion includes a first region and a second region between the first region and the front end portion. When the bending operation section is operated within the first range, the first region bends towards the side of the front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is located. When the bending operation part is operated within the first range, the second region remains in a state that extends along the axis of the front end.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The front end has an outlet for the treatment device on the side closer to the bend than the ultrasonic transducer array.

3. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein, When the bending operation part is operated within the first range, the first upper limit value of the bending angle of the bending part is 50° or more and 100° or less.

4. The endoscope according to claim 3, wherein, The first upper limit value is above 60° and below 95°.

5. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, When the bending operation is operated in a second range beyond the first range, at least a portion of the second region bends toward the face of the front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is disposed.

6. The endoscope according to claim 5, wherein, When the bending operation part is operated in the second range, the first region maintains the bending state as when the bending operation part is operated to the end of the second range side of the first range.

7. The endoscope according to claim 6, wherein, The end portion on the front end side of the second region is configured such that bending operations based on the bending operation portion cannot be performed.

8. The endoscope according to claim 7, wherein, The end portion on the front end side in the second region is configured to be able to bend under external force.

9. The endoscope according to claim 8, wherein, When the bending operation part is operated within the second range, the second upper limit value of the bending angle of the bending part is 165° or more and 195° or less.

10. The endoscope according to claim 9, wherein, The curved portion can be further bent toward the opposite side of the front end where the ultrasonic transducer array is located. The third upper limit value of the bending angle to the opposite side when the bending operation part is operated is less than the second upper limit value.

11. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein, The third upper limit value is below the upper limit value of the bending angle of the bending part when the bending operation part is operated within the first range.

12. The endoscope according to claim 11, wherein, The length of the second region in the longitudinal direction of the insertion part is less than or equal to the length of the first region in the longitudinal direction.

13. The endoscope according to claim 12, wherein, The length of the second region in the longitudinal direction of the insertion part is more than 0.5 times the length of the first region in the longitudinal direction.

14. The endoscope according to claim 13, wherein, The outer peripheral surface of the front end portion includes: The first side is disposed on the base end side of the ultrasonic transducer array and along the longitudinal axis of the insertion part; The second surface is disposed on the base end side of the first surface, along the longitudinal axis, and located on a side perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in a first direction relative to the first surface; and A stepped surface connects the base end of the first surface to the front end of the second surface. When the direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis and the first direction is defined as the second direction, the angle representing the irradiation range of the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic transducer array when viewing the front end from the second direction side is defined as the effective angle, and the intersection of the tangent line that is tangent to the ultrasonic transducer array and tangent to the stepped surface at the position closest to the first direction side with the ultrasonic transducer array is defined as the first intersection point, the first intersection point is included in the range of the base 1 / 3 of the effective angle.

15. The endoscope according to claim 14, comprising: An outlet is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the front end, opening towards one direction and discharging the treatment device; A conduit, connected within the front end to the outlet, for insertion of the treatment device; and An observation window for observing the optical system is located on the stepped surface. When the front end is viewed from the second direction side, the intersection of the center line of the front end of the pipe connected to the outlet and the tangent, i.e., the second intersection point, is located on the base end side of the front end portion, which is closer to the first intersection point than the first intersection point.

16. The endoscope according to claim 15, wherein, The second intersection point is located between the ultrasonic transducer array and the stepped surface.

Images