Ultrasonic endoscope

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of ultrasonic endoscope capable of realizing the thinning of insertion portion front end portion.Ultrasonic endoscope has: front end portion (34), it is configured to the front end side of insertion portion (12);Erecting platform accommodating portion (60) is configured to front end portion (34), and it is opened in the Z (+) direction side of Z direction orthogonal with long axis direction, and erecting platform (70) is accommodated inside;And configuration surface (114) is configured to the position of more base end side of erecting platform accommodating portion (60) in long axis direction, with the normal component of front end side towards long axis direction, and gas supply and water supply nozzle (44) and observation window (40) are configured, when observing from the Z (+) direction side of Z direction, at least one part of the area of gas supply and water supply nozzle (44) is configured to the position of overlapping with the base end side area (130) of the opening (46) of erecting platform accommodating portion (60) to the base end side extension of long axis direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to an ultrasonic endoscope, and more particularly to an ultrasonic endoscope having an ultrasonic transducer at the front end of the insertion portion. Background Technology

[0002] As an ultrasonic endoscope, there is a known ultrasonic endoscope that has a convex ultrasonic transducer at the front end of the insertion part and a treatment device outlet is provided at the base end side of the ultrasonic transducer in the front end (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] In examinations using the aforementioned ultrasonic endoscope, for example, while acquiring an ultrasonic image of the target site via an ultrasonic transducer, a puncture needle (treatment device) extending into the body through the device insertion channel and the device outlet is inserted into the target site to collect cells. At this time, the treatment device changes its outlet direction by the undulating motion of the standing platform housed within the standing platform's receiving section, thus treating the desired location.

[0004] Furthermore, at the front end of the insertion section, in addition to the ultrasonic transducer and the standing platform, there are also an observation window for observing the part to be treated, an illumination window for emitting illumination light toward the part to be treated, and an air and water supply nozzle for spraying cleaning water or air toward the observation window.

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2020 / 179909

[0006] In the field of medical endoscopy, from the perspective of reducing patient burden or minimizing incidental complications, it is desirable to reduce the diameter of the tip of the insertion section. However, compared with other endoscopes (e.g., gastrointestinal endoscopes), ultrasound endoscopes have more functions, thus presenting a challenge in reducing the diameter of the tip. Utility Model Content

[0007] This invention was made in view of this situation, and its purpose is to provide an ultrasonic endoscope that can achieve a smaller diameter at the front end of the insertion part.

[0008] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the first aspect of this utility model includes: a front end portion disposed at the front end side of an insertion portion extending along the long axis direction; a stage receiving portion disposed at the front end portion, opening on a side orthogonal to the long axis direction in a first direction, and internally accommodating the stage; and a mounting surface disposed at a position further along the long axis direction than the stage receiving portion, at a base end side, having a normal component toward the front end side in the long axis direction, and being provided with a fluid nozzle and an observation window, wherein when viewed from the side in the first direction, at least a portion of the fluid nozzle is disposed at a position overlapping with a base end side region extending the opening of the stage receiving portion toward the base end side in the long axis direction.

[0009] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the second aspect of this utility model has an observation window located on the outer side of the base side region in the first aspect.

[0010] The ultrasonic endoscope involved in the third aspect of this utility model has an observation window positioned opposite the outlet side of the fluid nozzle in the second aspect.

[0011] The ultrasonic endoscope involved in the fourth aspect of this utility model, in any one of the first to third aspects, has a first illumination window disposed on the outer side of the base end region on the configuration surface.

[0012] In the fifth aspect of this invention, the ultrasonic endoscope is in the fourth aspect, in which the first illumination window is disposed on the side opposite to the side where the fluid nozzle is disposed, relative to the observation window.

[0013] The ultrasonic endoscope involved in the sixth aspect of this utility model, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, has a second illumination window on the configuration surface, with at least a portion of the area disposed on the outer side of the base end region.

[0014] In the seventh aspect of this invention, the ultrasonic endoscope is in the sixth aspect, in which the second illumination window is disposed on the side opposite to the side where the observation window is disposed, relative to the fluid nozzle.

[0015] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the eighth aspect of this utility model, in any of the first to seventh aspects, has a first surface area for arranging a fluid nozzle and a second surface area for arranging an observation window on its configuration surface. When the normal direction of the configuration surface is taken as the height direction, the height of the first surface area is lower than the height of the second surface area.

[0016] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the ninth aspect of this utility model includes, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, a cover member disposed at the front end and arranged on one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction.

[0017] In the 9th embodiment, the cover part and the front end part of the ultrasonic endoscope involved in the 10th embodiment of this utility model are made of the same material.

[0018] In the 11th aspect of this utility model, the ultrasonic endoscope, in the 9th or 10th aspect, has a cover member covering the outermost end side of one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction.

[0019] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the 12th aspect of this utility model includes a first filler in any of the 9th to 11th aspects to fill the gap between the fluid nozzle and the cover component.

[0020] In any of the 1st to 8th embodiments of the present invention, the ultrasonic endoscope of the 13th embodiment has an R-shaped end end on one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction when viewed from the outlet side of the fluid nozzle.

[0021] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the 14th aspect of this utility model, in any one of the 1st to 8th aspects, includes a second filler to fill the step formed on one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction.

[0022] The ultrasonic endoscope according to the 15th aspect of this utility model, in any of the 1st to 14th aspects, has a configuration surface disposed on the side opposite to the side where the fluid nozzle is disposed, and has a guide surface that guides the fluid ejected from the fluid nozzle to the stand-up table receiving portion.

[0023] In the 15th embodiment, the ultrasonic endoscope according to the 16th embodiment of this utility model has a guide groove provided at the edge of the opening of the stage receiving portion to guide fluid guided by the guide surface into the interior of the stage receiving portion.

[0024] Utility Model Effect

[0025] According to this utility model, it is possible to reduce the diameter of the front end of the insertion part. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the ultrasonic endoscope of this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a bird's-eye view of the front side of the component, taken from an angle.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a bird's-eye view of the left side of the front component, taken from an angle.

[0029] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the configuration positions of the observation window, lighting window, and air / water supply nozzles when viewed from the Z(+) direction side.

[0030] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration positions of the observation window, lighting window, and air / water supply nozzles when viewed from the Y(+) direction side.

[0031] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the configuration positions of the observation window, lighting window, and air / water supply nozzles when viewed from the Z(+) direction side.

[0032] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view of the air and water delivery nozzles as seen from the X(+) direction side.

[0033] Figure 8 This is an enlarged view of the air and water delivery nozzles as seen from the X(-) direction side.

[0034] Figure 9 This is an enlarged view of the air and water delivery nozzles as seen from the X(+) direction side.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a bird's-eye view of the left side of the front component, taken from an angle.

[0036] Symbol explanation:

[0037] 1-Ultrasonic endoscope, 10-Operating section, 12-Insertion section, 14-Universal plug cord, 16-Angle button, 18-Erect operating lever, 20-Air / water supply button, 22-Suction button, 24-Device inlet, 30-Soft section, 32-Bend section, 34-Front end, 36-Front end component, 40-Observation window, 42A-Illumination window, 42B-Illumination window, 43A-Right side area, 43B-Left side area, 44-Air / water supply nozzle, 44A-Left side area, 44B-Right side area, 44C-Upper end, 44D-Lower end, 44E-First end, 44F-Second end, 45-Outlet, 46-Opening, 48-Opening surface, 50-Ultrasonic Transducer, 52-Ultrasonic transceiver surface, 54-Housing shell, 60-Standing platform receiving section, 62-Standing platform receiving space, 70-Standing platform, 70A-Dealing instrument guide surface, 100-Ultrasonic observation section, 110-Endoscopic observation section, 102-Balloon groove, 112-Main body component, 112A-Upper surface, 114-Configuration surface, 114A-Surface area, 114B-Surface area, 114C-Surface area, 114D-Surface area, 114E-Surface area, 116-Cover component, 116A-Front end, 118-Gap, 120-Filling agent, 122-Step, 124-Filling agent, 126-Guiding surface, 128-Guiding groove, 130-Base end side area. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The embodiments of this utility model will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] [Overall structure of an ultrasonic endoscope]

[0040] Figure 1 This is an overall view of the ultrasonic endoscope (hereinafter referred to as "endoscope") 1 according to the embodiments of this utility model.

[0041] like Figure 1As shown, the endoscope 1 of this embodiment includes an operating section 10 for the surgeon to hold and perform various operations, an insertion section 12 for insertion into the patient's body cavity, and a universal plug 14. The endoscope 1 is connected to a system structure device including a processor device and a light source device (not shown) via the universal plug 14.

[0042] The operating unit 10 is equipped with various operating components operated by the surgeon, such as a pair of angle buttons 16, a lifting operating lever 18, an air / water supply button 20, and a suction button 22.

[0043] Furthermore, the operating unit 10 is provided with a treatment device inlet 24 on its front end side. The treatment device introduced through the treatment device inlet 24 is inserted into the treatment device insertion channel that passes through the interior of the insertion unit 12.

[0044] The insertion portion 12 extends from the front end of the operating portion 10 along its long axis and is generally constructed in a narrow, elongated shape. The insertion portion 12 has a flexible portion 30, a curved portion 32, and a front end portion 34 sequentially from the base end side toward the front end side. Furthermore, the insertion portion 12 is one example of the insertion portion of this utility model, and the front end portion 34 is one example of the front end portion of this utility model.

[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 within the body cavity.

[0046] The bending portion 32 is bent in both the vertical and horizontal directions by rotating a pair of bend knobs 16 on the operating part 10. By bending the bending portion 32, the front end portion 34 can be oriented in the desired direction.

[0047] The front end portion 34 has a front end component 36 described later (see reference). Figure 2 The front end component 36 has an ultrasonic observation section 100 and an endoscopic observation section 110.

[0048] Figure 1 The universal plug cord 14 shown contains internal components such as an ultrasonic cable, a power cable, a light guide, and a fluid hose. A connector (not shown) is provided at one end of the universal plug cord 14. By connecting this connector to the aforementioned system structure device, control signals, power, illumination light, liquids, and gases required for the operation of the endoscope 1 are supplied from the system structure device to the endoscope 1. Furthermore, in addition to the aforementioned internal components, the insertion section 12 also contains internal components such as a treatment instrument insertion channel, a bending operation line, and a standing platform operation line.

[0049] Ultrasonic image data and endoscopic image data acquired by endoscope 1 (ultrasonic viewing unit 100 and endoscopic viewing unit 110) are transmitted from endoscope 1 to the system structure device. The data transmitted to the system structure device are processed by the system structure device and displayed as ultrasonic images and endoscopic images on the display (not shown).

[0050] Next, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure of the front end 34 (front end component 36) will be described. Figure 2 This is a bird's-eye view of the front side of the front component 36, viewed from an angle. Figure 3 This is a bird's-eye view of the left side of the front component 36, viewed from an angle. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The images show the state of the erected platform 70 in the collapsed position, as described later.

[0051] In the following description of the structure of each part of the front-end component 36, a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system of X, Y, and Z will be used for ease of explanation. In the figure, the Z direction refers to the vertical direction, the Z(+) direction refers to the upper direction, and the Z(-) direction refers to the lower direction. Furthermore, the X direction in the figure refers to the direction perpendicular to the Z direction, the X(+) direction refers to the left direction, and the X(-) direction refers to the right direction. Also, the Y direction in the figure refers to the direction perpendicular to both the Z and X directions, the Y(+) direction refers to the front-end side direction, and the Y(-) direction refers to the base-end side direction. Additionally, each of the above directions refers to the direction when the ultrasonic transducer 50's ultrasonic transceiver surface 52 is facing upwards when viewed from the front-end side.

[0052] Furthermore, the Y direction corresponds to the major axis direction of the insertion part of this utility model (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as the "major axis direction"). Also, the Z direction corresponds to the first direction of this utility model, and the Z(+) direction side corresponds to one side of the first direction of this utility model.

[0053] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the front end component 36 has an ultrasonic observation section 100 and an endoscopic observation section 110 disposed on the Y(-) direction side (base end side) of the ultrasonic observation section 100. In addition, a balloon groove (not shown) for mounting a balloon covering the ultrasonic transducer 50 is provided between the ultrasonic observation section 100 and the endoscopic observation section 110.

[0054] The ultrasonic observation unit 100 has an ultrasonic transducer 50, which is held by a housing 54.

[0055] The ultrasonic transducer 50 is a convex transducer in which multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged in an arc shape along the Y direction (major axis direction). The upper surface (the surface on the Z(+) direction side) of the ultrasonic transducer 50 is configured as an ultrasonic transceiver surface 52, from which ultrasonic waves are emitted toward the Z(+) direction side (one side of the first direction). Specifically, when viewed from the X direction, the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic transceiver surface 52 (multiple ultrasonic transducers) perform a fan-shaped scan (convex surface scan) from the oblique rearward (Y(-) direction side and Z(+) direction side) to the oblique frontward (Y(+) direction side and Z(+) direction side). Moreover, the emission direction of the ultrasonic waves in this scan at least includes the Z(+) direction component. In addition, as long as the emission direction of most of the ultrasonic waves in the scan includes the Z(+) direction component, the emission direction of a portion of the ultrasonic waves may not include the Z(+) direction component (for example, directions that include the Y(+) direction component or the Z(-) direction component). The ultrasonic transducer 50 configured in this way acquires data for generating ultrasonic images.

[0056] The endoscopic observation section 110 has a main body component 112 configured as a generally cylindrical shape. The main body component 112 is made of insulating materials such as methacrylic acid resin, polyphenylsulfone resin, polyetherimide resin, polyetheretherketone resin, and plastics such as polycarbonate.

[0057] The main body component 112 has an erecting platform receiving portion 60 inside, which accommodates the erecting platform 70. This erecting platform receiving portion 60 has a rectangular opening 46 when viewed from the Z(+) direction side. This opening 46 is formed in the main body component 112 opening towards the Z(+) direction side (corresponding to the "first direction side" of this invention). In this embodiment, the opening direction of the opening 46 is a direction that faces obliquely forward when viewed from the X direction (i.e., both the Z(+) and Y(+) directions). Furthermore, the opening direction of the opening 46 can be any direction that at least includes the Z(+) direction side; for example, it can be a direction that only includes the Z(+) direction side (i.e., a direction perpendicular to the XY plane). In other words, the normal direction of the rectangular opening surface 48 (virtual surface) covering the opening 46 can be any direction that at least includes the Z(+) direction side. Additionally, the erecting platform receiving portion 60 is disposed at the front end portion 34, which is an example of the erecting platform receiving portion of this invention.

[0058] A treatment device outlet (not shown) is provided on the Y(-) direction side (base end side) of the standing platform receiving section 60, communicating with the standing platform receiving space 62 of the standing platform receiving section 60. This treatment device outlet is disposed via a through-hole in the insertion section 12 (see reference). Figure 1The treatment device insertion channel is connected to the treatment device inlet 24 of the operation unit 10. Thus, the treatment device inserted from the treatment device inlet 24 is guided from the treatment device outlet to the stand-up table receiving space 62 via the treatment device insertion channel.

[0059] An erecting platform 70 is accommodated in the erecting platform accommodating space 62 of the erecting platform accommodating section 60. The erecting platform 70 is positioned further towards the Y(-) direction than the ultrasonic transducer 50. The erecting platform 70 is configured to rotate freely about a rotation axis (not shown) arranged along the X direction, rotating between an erected position and a collapsed position. The erected position refers to the position of the erecting platform 70 when the front end side (the side opposite to the rotation axis) of the erecting platform 70 moves to the end position on the Y(-) direction side within the rotatable range of the erecting platform 70 (i.e., the position in which the erecting platform 70 is erected towards the Z(+) direction side). The collapsed position refers to the position of the erecting platform 70 when the front end side of the erecting platform 70 moves to the end position on the Y(+) direction side within the rotatable range of the erecting platform 70 (i.e., the position in which the erecting platform 70 is collapsed towards the Y(+) direction side).

[0060] The standing platform 70 is made of a metal material such as stainless steel and has a treatment device guide surface 70A on its upper surface. The treatment device guided to the standing platform receiving portion 60 is guided along the treatment device guide surface 70A and is led outward from the opening 46 of the standing platform receiving portion 60. In addition, the treatment device is led out into the ultrasonic scanning range of the ultrasonic transducer 50.

[0061] The erecting platform 70 thus constructed operates the erecting lever 18 (see reference). Figure 1 When the device is in operation, it moves between the upright position and the collapsed position with the rotation axis as the center (undulating movement). For example, by operating the upright operating lever 18, the uprighting platform 70 is moved to adjust the uprighting angle of the uprighting platform 70 from the collapsed position, thereby changing the discharge direction (discharge angle) of the treatment device that is guided by the treatment device guide surface 70A of the uprighting platform 70 and discharged from the opening 46.

[0062] The main body component 112 has a mounting surface 114 on the Y(-) direction side, which is further from the support platform 60. This mounting surface 114 is the surface on which the air and water nozzles 44 (described later) are mounted, and is composed of a surface inclined relative to the XY plane. In other words, when viewed from the X direction, the mounting surface 114 is composed of a surface facing obliquely forward (Y(+) direction side and Z(+) direction side). Alternatively, the mounting surface 114 can be composed of a surface perpendicular to the XY plane. That is, the mounting surface 114 only needs to be composed of a surface that has at least a normal component facing the Y(+) direction side. Furthermore, the mounting surface 114 is an example of the mounting surface of this utility model.

[0063] The configuration surface 114 is provided with an observation window 40 for observing the test body, an illumination window 42A and an illumination window 42B for illuminating the test body, and an air and water supply nozzle 44 for cleaning the observation window 40.

[0064] Light emitting sections constituting the illumination unit are respectively housed inside illumination windows 42A and 42B. These light emitting sections are connected to a light source device via light guides. Illumination light transmitted from the light source device via the light guides shines from each light emitting section through illumination windows 42A and 42B onto the object being treated. Furthermore, illumination windows 42A and 42B are examples of the first and second illumination windows of this utility model.

[0065] An imaging system unit is housed within the observation window 40. This imaging system unit includes an imaging optical system, a solid-state imaging element, and a circuit board constituting the imaging unit (camera unit). Light (reflected light) from the treatment area illuminated by illumination windows 42A and 42B is drawn into the observation window 40, and this light is imaged into an observation image by the imaging optical system in the solid-state imaging element. Data for generating endoscopic images is acquired by the imaging unit. Furthermore, the observation window 40 is an example of the observation window of this invention.

[0066] For air and water supply buttons 20 (reference) Figure 1 During operation, the air / water supply nozzle 44 sprays cleaning fluid such as water or air (fluid) from its outlet 45 toward the observation window 40, etc. This cleans the observation window 40, etc. Furthermore, the air / water supply nozzle 44 is an example of the fluid nozzle of this invention.

[0067] Furthermore, inside the main body component 112, in addition to the aforementioned camera unit, there is also an ultrasonic cable connected to the ultrasonic transducer 50, and a standing platform unit, etc. The standing platform unit is formed by modularizing the standing platform 70, the standing platform support part that rotates and supports the standing platform 70, and the drive mechanism for rotating the standing platform 70 as an integrated component, and constitutes the aforementioned standing platform receiving part 60.

[0068] However, in the field of medical endoscopes, there is a desire to reduce the diameter of the insertion tip. But due to the multiple functions of ultrasonic endoscopes, reducing the diameter of the tip presents a challenge. Specifically, ultrasonic endoscopes equipped with ultrasonic transducers and a stage require the internal placement of large components such as the camera unit, ultrasonic cables, and stage unit within the internal space of the main body 112. Therefore, the tip of ultrasonic endoscopes tends to have a larger diameter.

[0069] Therefore, in order to achieve a smaller diameter at the tip 34, the endoscope 1 of this embodiment has the following structure.

[0070] Figure 4This is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the arrangement positions of the observation window 40, illumination windows 42A and 42B, and air / water supply nozzles 44 when viewed from the Z(+) direction side. Furthermore, in Figure 2 and Figure 4 The diagram shows a base-end side region 130 extending from the opening 46 of the stand-up table receiving portion 60 in the Y (-) direction. This base-end side region 130 is a virtual region and is an example of the base-end side region of this utility model.

[0071] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, in this embodiment, when viewed from the Z(+) direction side (in other words, the opening side of the opening 46), at least a portion (preferably more than half) of the area of ​​the air and water delivery nozzle 44 is arranged at a position that overlaps with the base end side region 130 that extends the opening of the stand-up table receiving portion 60 to the Y(-) direction side.

[0072] Specifically, the left region 44A of the air- and water-supplying nozzle 44, excluding the right region 44B including the nozzle outlet 45, is positioned to overlap with the base-side region 130. Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, as a more preferred embodiment, all regions of the air- and water-supplying nozzle 44 may be positioned to overlap with the base-side region 130. Additionally, the aforementioned left region 44A is an example of at least a portion of the fluid nozzle of this invention.

[0073] Here, in order to achieve a smaller diameter at the tip 34 of the endoscope 1, it is necessary to utilize the gap between the larger internal components (camera unit, ultrasonic cable, and stage unit) to accommodate the smaller internal components, namely the light guide and the air / water supply hoses. However, since the light guide has a rigid endoscope barrel, it is difficult to bend it sharply for placement. For this reason, a relatively wide placement space is required for the light guide.

[0074] As a comparative example, for instance, the structure to be used in Figure 4 When all areas of the base-side region 130 shown are configured with illumination windows, because there are large built-in components (e.g., the support unit) in the base-side region 130, the space on the upper side (Z(+) direction side) of the support unit must be enlarged to ensure space for the light guide. As a result, the front end diameter becomes coarser. The same problem arises when an observation window is configured in the base-side region 130.

[0075] Therefore, as described above, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 (left side region 44A) is positioned to overlap with the base-side region 130. By employing this structure, the air and water delivery hose, which allows only water and air to pass through and can be bent sharply without requiring a large configuration space like a light guide, can be placed in the narrow space above the standing unit (Z(+) direction side). As a result, the endoscope 1 according to this embodiment can achieve a smaller diameter at the tip 34.

[0076] On the other hand, such as Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the observation window 40 is disposed on the configuration surface 114 at a position opposite to the outlet 45 of the air and water delivery nozzle 44, which is on the outer side (X(-) direction side) relative to the base end side region 130. That is, the observation window 40 is disposed in the outer region of the base end side region 130, on the outer side of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 in the X(-) direction.

[0077] By arranging the observation window 40 at the position described above, the camera unit can be arranged in a relatively spacious configuration space relative to the stand unit on the X(-) direction side. This allows for a reduction in the diameter of the front end portion 34.

[0078] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the illumination window 42A is disposed on the X(-) direction side of the observation window 40 on the placement surface 114. That is, in the outer region of the base end side region 130, the illumination window 42A is disposed relative to the observation window 40 on the outer region of the side opposite to the side where the air and water nozzles 44 are disposed (X(+) direction side) (X(-) direction side). Furthermore, in the Z direction, the illumination window 42A is disposed relative to the observation window 40 on the Z(-) direction side.

[0079] By arranging the illumination window 42A at the aforementioned location, a light guide for the illumination window 42A can be arranged in a relatively spacious configuration space relative to the stand unit and the camera unit on the X(-) direction side. This allows for a reduction in the diameter of the front end portion 34.

[0080] Regarding the lighting window 42B, such as Figures 2 to 4As shown, at least a portion of the illumination window 42B is disposed on the outer side of the base-side region 130 on the configuration surface 114. Specifically, the right-side region 43A on the X(-) direction side of the illumination window 42B is disposed on the base-side region 130, and the left-side region 43B, excluding the right-side region 43A, is disposed on the outer side of the X(+) direction side of the base-side region 130. Furthermore, although the illustration is omitted, as a more preferred embodiment, all regions of the illumination window 42B may be disposed on the outer side (X(+) direction side) of the base-side region 130. That is, regarding the illumination window 42B, at least a portion (the left-side region 43B) of the illumination window 42B is disposed on the outer side (X(+) direction side) of the base-side region 130. Additionally, the aforementioned left-side region 43B is an example of at least a portion of the region of the second illumination window of this invention.

[0081] By arranging the illumination window 42B at the aforementioned location, a light guide for the illumination window 42B can be arranged in a relatively spacious configuration space relative to the stand unit and the camera unit on the X(+) direction side. This allows for a smaller diameter of the front end portion 34. Furthermore, since the right-side region 43A of the illumination window 42B is located in the base-side region 130, the object being processed can be illuminated from a generally frontal side through the illumination window 42B.

[0082] Thus, the endoscope 1 of this embodiment places two light guides, which are difficult to bend sharply, in the relatively spacious space on both sides (X(-) direction side and X(+) direction side) of the base-side region 130 in the X direction, thereby enabling more effective reduction of the diameter of the front end portion 34. Furthermore, since illumination windows 42A and 42B are arranged on both sides of the observation window 40 in the X direction, orientation is improved.

[0083] In addition, this embodiment illustrates an endoscope 1 having two illumination windows 42A and 42B, but it can also be applied to an endoscope having only one of the two illumination windows 42A and 42B.

[0084] However, in the endoscope 1 of this embodiment, since at least a portion of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 is disposed in the base-side region 130, the air and water delivery nozzle 44 is positioned at a high position in the front end member 36 when the Z(+) direction in the Z direction is taken as the height direction. At this time, the air and water delivery nozzle 44 sometimes comes into contact with the mucosa in the body cavity, so it is desirable to prevent the air and water delivery nozzle 44 from directly contacting the mucosa in order to protect the mucosa from the influence of the air and water delivery nozzle 44.

[0085] The following describes several examples (examples 1 to 4) of mucosal protection structures used to protect the mucosa from the influence of the air and water nozzles 44. Additionally, in the following description, [the following text is incomplete and likely refers to a different topic]... Figures 1 to 4For components that are the same or similar as those shown, use the same symbols for description.

[0086] <Example 1>

[0087] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the respective configuration positions of the observation window 40, the two illumination windows 42A and 42B, and the air and water supply nozzles 44 when viewed from the Y(+) direction side. Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the respective configuration positions of the observation window 40, the two illumination windows 42A and 42B, and the air and water supply nozzles 44 when viewed from the Z(+) direction side.

[0088] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the configuration surface 114 has a surface area 114A for configuring the observation window 40, a surface area 114B for configuring the illumination window 42A, a surface area 114C for configuring the illumination window 42B, and a surface area 114D for configuring the air and water supply nozzles 44.

[0089] Here, the heights of each surface region 114A to 114D are compared when the normal direction of the configuration surface 114 is taken as the height direction. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the configuration surface 114 is composed of a surface inclined relative to the XY plane, having a normal component pointing diagonally forward (Y(+) direction side and Z(+) direction side), but for ease of explanation, here... Figure 6 The direction of the Y(+) direction is explained as the height direction.

[0090] like Figure 6 As shown, the heights of each surface region 114A to 114D have the relationship: surface region 114D < surface region 114C < surface region 114B < surface region 114A. That is, in this example, the surface 114 is configured such that surface region 114D is a surface with a lower height than surface region 114A. Furthermore, surface region 114D, where the air / water nozzle 44 is disposed, and surface region 114A, where the observation window 40 is disposed, are examples of the first and second surface regions of this utility model, respectively.

[0091] Based on the arrangement of the surface 114 with surface areas 114A and 114D, the surface area 114D of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 is lower than the surface area 114A of the observation window 40, thus preventing the air and water delivery nozzle 44 from directly contacting the mucosa. Therefore, according to the mucosa protection structure of the first example, the mucosa can be protected from the influence of the air and water delivery nozzle 44.

[0092] Specifically, surface region 114D is formed at a position that is displaced 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm further towards the base end (Y(-) direction) than surface region 114A. That is, a step is provided between surface regions 114D and surface region 114A. In this case, regarding the front surfaces of the air / water delivery nozzle 44 and the observation window 40 facing the Y(+) direction, it is preferable that the front surface of the air / water delivery nozzle 44 is located further towards the Y(-) direction than the front surface of the observation window 40. This further suppresses direct contact between the air / water delivery nozzle 44 and the mucosa.

[0093] <Example 2>

[0094] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 disposed on the configuration surface 114, viewed from the X(+) direction side.

[0095] like Figure 7 As shown, the front end component 36 includes a cover component 116. This cover component 116 is disposed on the mounting surface 114 of the main body component 112 in a surface region 114E located on the Z(+) direction side (one side) of the air / water delivery nozzle 44 in the Z direction (first direction). Furthermore, the cover component 116 is an example of a cover component of this utility model.

[0096] Furthermore, the cover member 116 is positioned in the surface region 114E at a position not exceeding the outer diameter D (diameter) of the main body member 112. Specifically, when the Z(+) direction is taken as the height direction, the cover member 116 is positioned at the same height as the upper surface 112A of the main body member 112 or at a position lower than the upper surface 112A.

[0097] Furthermore, the cover member 116 protrudes from the surface region 114E toward the Y(+) direction side, and the cover member 116 covers the uppermost end 44C side of the air and water nozzle 44 in the Z(+) direction. Therefore, when viewed from the Z(+) direction side, the upper end 44C of the air and water nozzle 44 is blocked by the cover member 116.

[0098] By providing such a cover member 116 to the main body member 112, direct contact between the upper end 44C of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 and the mucosa can be prevented. Thus, according to the mucosa protection structure of the second example, the mucosa can be protected from the influence of the air and water delivery nozzle 44.

[0099] Furthermore, the cover component 116 is preferably made of the same material (resin material) as the main body component 112. As a result, the main body component 112 and the cover component 116 can be formed as a single piece (one-piece molded article).

[0100] Furthermore, by setting the front end portion 116A of the cover member 116 in the Y(+) direction as follows: Figure 7The R-shape (curved surface) shown can alleviate the irritation applied to the mucosa from the anterior end 116A.

[0101] Furthermore, by providing a filler 120 that fills the gap 118 between the air / water nozzle 44 and the cover member 116, the filler 120 functions as a buffer material that absorbs the force exerted on the cover member 116 when it comes into contact with the mucosa, thus alleviating the irritation exerted on the mucosa from the cover member 116. Additionally, the filler 120 is an example of the first filler of this invention.

[0102] In addition, Figure 7 In the second example, the structure in which the cover member 116 only covers the upper end 44C of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 was described, but it is not limited to this. For example, it can also be configured such that the front end 116A of the cover member 116 extends further toward the Y(+) direction side, and when viewed from the Z(+) direction side, the front end 116A covers the lower end 44D of the air and water delivery nozzle 44.

[0103] <Example 3>

[0104] Figure 8 This is an enlarged view of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 disposed on the configuration surface 114, viewed from the X(-) direction side.

[0105] like Figure 8 As shown, when viewed from the nozzle outlet 45 side (X(-) direction side) of the air-water delivery nozzle 44, the first end 44E and the second end 44F constituting the edge portion of the air-water delivery nozzle 44 are formed in an R shape (curved surface).

[0106] According to the R-shaped air and water delivery nozzle 44 described above, the irritation applied to the mucosa by the air and water delivery nozzle 44 can be alleviated when the air and water delivery nozzle 44 contacts the mucosa. Therefore, according to the mucosa protection structure of the third example, the mucosa can be protected from the influence of the air and water delivery nozzle 44.

[0107] Furthermore, while the aforementioned air- and water-supply nozzle 44 has both its first end 44E and second end 44F sides shaped like an R, it is also possible to only shape the upper end 44E, which is more likely to contact the mucous membrane, into an R shape. However, by also shaped the second end 44F side into an R shape, the mucous membrane can be protected when it contacts the mucous membrane. Moreover, from the viewpoint of being able to be integrally molded, it is preferable that the R-shaped first end 44E and second end 44F are made of the same material as the air- and water-supply nozzle 44, but it is also possible that they are made of different materials and subsequently added.

[0108] <Example 4>

[0109] Figure 9This is an enlarged view of the air and water delivery nozzle 44 disposed on the configuration surface 114, viewed from the X(+) direction side.

[0110] like Figure 9 As shown, the main body component 112 includes a filler 124 that fills the step 122 formed on the Z(+) direction side of the air / water delivery nozzle 44. Furthermore, the filler 124 is an example of a second filler of this invention.

[0111] As described above, by filling the step 122 with filler 124, the edge portion of the upper end 44C of the air-water delivery nozzle 44 on the Z(+) direction side can be blocked by filler 124. Therefore, when the air-water delivery nozzle 44 comes into contact with the mucosa, the stimulation applied to the mucosa from the air-water delivery nozzle 44 can be mitigated. Thus, according to the mucosa protection structure of the fourth example, the mucosa can be protected from the influence of the air-water delivery nozzle 44.

[0112] Furthermore, when the Z(+) direction is taken as the height direction, from the viewpoint of realizing the small diameter of the front end 34, the filler 124 is provided at the same height position as the upper surface 112A of the main body 112 or at a position lower than the upper surface 112A.

[0113] During surgeries using endoscopic ultrasound, contrast agents sometimes adhere to the area around the stage. When the contrast agent solidifies on the stage, the insertion resistance of surgical instruments increases compared to the initial state.

[0114] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the structure of the front end 34 shown, the cleaning water ejected from the nozzle 45 of the air and water supply nozzle 44 flows toward the observation window 40 in the X (-) direction. Therefore, sometimes it is not possible to supply the cleaning water sufficiently to the standing platform 70 located on the Z (-) direction side of the air and water supply nozzle 44.

[0115] Therefore, in Figure 10 The front end 34 is shown with a cleaning structure for effectively rinsing contrast agent adhering to the stand 70 by cleaning water sprayed from the nozzle 45 of the air and water supply nozzle 44.

[0116] according to Figure 10 The front end portion 34 shown has a guide surface 126 on the mounting surface 114 of the main body component 112. This guide surface 126 is a surface that guides the cleaning water ejected from the nozzle 45 toward the stand-up table receiving portion 60, and is positioned opposite the side where the air and water nozzle 44 is located (X(-) direction side) relative to the observation window 40. That is, this guide surface 126 is a stepped surface positioned opposite the nozzle 45 side of the air and water nozzle 44, separated by the observation window 40, so that the cleaning water ejected from the nozzle 45 is reflected toward the stand-up table receiving portion 60 and guided.

[0117] According to the front end portion 34 having this guide surface 126, the cleaning water sprayed from the nozzle 45 of the air and water supply nozzle 44 passes through the surface of the observation window 40 and collides with the guide surface 126, and is then guided by the guide surface 126 toward the stage 70. Thus, cleaning water can be supplied to the stage 70 and the contrast agent adhering to the stage 70 can be rinsed off with the cleaning water.

[0118] And, as Figure 10 As shown, the front end portion 34 preferably has a guide groove 128 at the edge of the opening 46 of the stand-up table receiving portion 60. The guide groove 128 is formed by a cut groove that cuts off a portion of the edge of the opening 46 of the stand-up table receiving portion 60.

[0119] According to the front end portion 34 having such a guide groove 128, cleaning water guided to the stand-up table accommodating portion 60 via the guide surface 126 flows through the guide groove 128 and is supplied to the stand-up table accommodating portion 60. Thus, the contrast agent adhering to the stand-up table 70 can be effectively rinsed with the cleaning water.

[0120] The ultrasonic endoscope involved in this embodiment has been described above, but the present invention can be modified or modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic endoscope, characterized in that, have: The front end is located on the front end side of the insertion portion that extends along the long axis. A standing platform receiving portion, disposed at the front end, opens on one side in a first direction orthogonal to the major axis direction, and internally accommodates the standing platform; and The mounting surface is positioned at the base end side further along the long axis than the supporting platform receiving portion, has a normal component facing the front end side along the long axis, and is equipped with a fluid nozzle and an observation window. When viewed from one side of the first direction, at least a portion of the fluid nozzle is positioned to overlap with a base-end side region that extends the opening of the erecting platform accommodating portion toward the base-end side in the long axis direction.

2. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The observation window is located on the outer side of the base-side region.

3. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 2, characterized in that, The observation window is positioned opposite the outlet side of the fluid nozzle.

4. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, A first illumination window is provided on the configuration surface, located on the outer side of the base end region.

5. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first illumination window is positioned on the opposite side from the observation window to the side where the fluid nozzle is located.

6. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, A second illumination window is provided on the configuration surface, with at least a portion of the area disposed on the outer side of the base end region.

7. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second illumination window is positioned opposite the side where the observation window is located, relative to the fluid nozzle.

8. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The configuration surface has a first surface area for configuring the fluid nozzle and a second surface area for configuring the observation window. When the normal direction of the configuration surface is taken as the height direction, the height of the first surface region is lower than the height of the second surface region.

9. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, have: A cover component is disposed at the front end and positioned on one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction.

10. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cover component is made of the same material as the front end.

11. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cover component covers the outermost end side of one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction.

12. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 9, characterized in that, The ultrasonic endoscope has a first filler to fill the gap between the fluid nozzle and the cover component.

13. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, When viewed from the outlet side of the fluid nozzle, the outermost end side of one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction is formed in an R shape.

14. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The ultrasonic endoscope has a second filler to fill the step formed on one side of the fluid nozzle in the first direction.

15. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The configuration surface is located on the side opposite to the side where the fluid nozzle is located, relative to the observation window, and has a guiding surface that guides the fluid ejected from the fluid nozzle toward the stand-up accommodating portion.

16. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 15, characterized in that, A guide groove is provided at the edge of the opening of the standing platform receiving portion to guide the fluid guided by the guide surface into the interior of the standing platform receiving portion.

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