Endoscope

Abstract

To provide an endoscope which suppresses the reflection of cleaning water and improves the visibility of an observation window.SOLUTION: An endoscope 1 includes an insertion part 2 to be inserted into a subject, a first surface 20 disposed on a distal end surface 14 of the insertion part 2, a forceps port 26 disposed on the first surface 20, a second surface 23 protruding from the first surface 20 in an insertion direction of the insertion part, an observation window 30 disposed on the second surface 23, a nozzle 27 that is disposed on the first surface 20 and jets a fluid from a jetting port toward the observation window 30, a third surface 25 protruding from the first surface 20 in the insertion direction ID of the insertion part 2, and a first illumination window 32 that is disposed on the third surface 25. The third surface 25 is located between the nozzle 27 and the forceps port 26, and an end portion 25A of the third surface 25 in a jetting direction ED of the fluid is located further in the jetting direction than a formation position P of the jetting port 27A.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an endoscope, and more particularly to an endoscope that improves the visibility of an observation window at the tip of an insertion section. [Background technology]

[0002] An observation window that takes in subject light from the observation site and an illumination window that emits illumination light to the observation site are arranged on the distal end surface of the distal end of the insertion section of the endoscope. Also, a fluid injection nozzle (air and water nozzle) that injects cleaning water (water, etc.) and gas (air, etc.) toward the observation window is arranged on the distal end surface.

[0003] When cleaning the observation window, first, cleaning water is sprayed from the nozzle outlet of the fluid spray nozzle to remove any deposits on the observation window, and then gas is sprayed from the nozzle outlet to remove any cleaning water remaining on the observation window.

[0004] The endoscope of Patent Document 1 has an inclined portion around the periphery of the observation window, and the second elevation angle along a second axis perpendicular to the first axial direction is made larger than the first elevation angle in the first axial direction along the spray direction, thereby further improving the cleanability and water drainage of the observation window. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] WO 14 / 030385 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, even if gas is sprayed from a fluid spray nozzle to remove cleaning water from the entire surface of the observation window, cleaning water may remain in the area adjacent to the nozzle. If this cleaning water is drawn out when the nozzle blows air and moves onto the observation window, it may be reflected in the observation image, which may reduce the visibility of the observation window.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide an endoscope that can suppress reflection of cleaning water and improve visibility of the observation window. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The endoscope of the first aspect comprises an insertion section to be inserted into a subject, a first surface arranged on the tip surface of the insertion section, a forceps port arranged on the first surface, a second surface protruding from the first surface along the insertion direction of the insertion section, an observation window arranged on the second surface, a nozzle arranged on the first surface and ejecting fluid from an ejection port toward the observation window, a third surface protruding from the first surface along the insertion direction of the insertion section, and a first illumination window arranged on the third surface, wherein the third surface is located between the nozzle and the forceps port, and the end of the third surface in the fluid ejection direction is located in the ejection direction from the position where the ejection port is formed.

[0009] In the endoscope of the second aspect, the third surface has a protruding region including an end portion extending in the ejection direction between the nozzle and the position where the first illumination window is formed.

[0010] In the endoscope of the third aspect, the third surface tapers from the outer periphery of the tip surface along the nozzle toward the end in the ejection direction.

[0011] In the endoscope of the fourth embodiment, the ridge line on the nozzle side of the third surface extends along the nozzle.

[0012] In the endoscope of the fifth aspect, a second illumination window is arranged on the second surface on the opposite side of the nozzle with the observation window in between.

[0013] The endoscope of the sixth aspect includes a narrow portion formed by the second surface and the third surface.

[0014] In the endoscope of the seventh aspect, the distance between the bottom of the second surface and the bottom of the third surface in the narrow portion is shorter than the distance between the ejection port and the bottom of the second surface. Effect of the Invention

[0015] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress reflection of cleaning water and improve visibility of the observation window. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the tip portion of the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the tip portion of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining another function and effect of the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the tip portion of the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the first modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the second modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the third modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the tip portion and the bending portion. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a first method for bonding a contact spring to a PTFE tube. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a second method for bonding the contact spring to the PTFE tube. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a high-frequency treatment tool. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tip portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of an endoscope according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] 1 is a configuration diagram showing an endoscope 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The endoscope 1 in the figure includes an insertion section 2 that is inserted into a subject, an operation section 3 that is connected to the base end of the insertion section 2 and is used for grasping, operating, etc., the endoscope 1, and a universal cord 4 that connects the endoscope 1 to system components such as a light source device and a processor device (not shown). The endoscope 1 of this embodiment is an upper endoscope for observing the esophagus, stomach, etc.

[0019] The insertion section 2 has a tip, a base end, and a longitudinal axis, and is composed of a flexible section 5, a bending section 6, and a tip section 7, which are arranged in sequence from the base end to the tip. The flexible section 5 is flexible and can bend in any direction along the insertion path of the insertion section 2. The operation section 3 is provided with angle knobs 8 and 9, a treatment tool introduction port 12, an air / water supply button 10, and a suction button 11.

[0020] The bending portion 6 is bent in each of the up-down and left-right directions by operating the angle knobs 8 and 9. A treatment tool such as forceps is inserted from a treatment tool introduction port 12 and led out from a forceps port 26 (see FIG. 2) provided at the tip portion 7. The tip portion 7 is also provided with an observation window 30 (see FIG. 2) for photographing an internal site to be observed, and a first illumination window 32 and a second illumination window 34 (see FIG. 2) for irradiating the site to be observed with illumination light.

[0021] The insertion portion 2 is inserted into the subject along the insertion direction ID indicated by the arrow, and the bending portion 6 of the insertion portion 2 is bent up, down, left, or right by rotating the angle knobs 8 and 9 of the operation unit 3. This allows the tip 7 of the insertion portion 2 to be oriented in a desired direction inside the body, and an observation image can be obtained through the observation window 30 provided at the tip 7.

[0022] First Embodiment FIG. 2 is a view of the tip portion of the first embodiment as viewed from the insertion direction ID, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the tip portion of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the tip portion 7 has a tip surface 14 disposed at the tip side of the insertion direction ID. The tip surface 14 is configured in a circular shape as viewed from the insertion direction ID. The tip surface 14 of the first embodiment includes a first surface 20, a second surface 23 protruding from the first surface 20 in the insertion direction ID, and a third surface 25 protruding from the first surface 20 in the insertion direction ID. A forceps port 26 and a nozzle 27 are disposed on the first surface 20. An observation window 30 and a second illumination window 34 are disposed on the second surface 23. A first illumination window 32 is disposed on the third surface 25. In the following, the direction perpendicular to the tip surface 14 (i.e., the insertion direction ID) is defined as the height direction (this also applies to the second embodiment described later). In the first embodiment, the second surface 23 and the third surface 25 are higher than the first surface 20.

[0023] The observation window 30 is a component of the observation section that acquires an image of the observed region in order to observe the inside of the subject, and captures subject light from the observed region into the optical system (lenses, etc.) and the image sensor, which are other components of the observation section. The image captured by this observation section is sent as an observation image to a processor device connected by a universal cord 4.

[0024] The first illumination window 32 and the second illumination window 34 are components of an illumination unit mounted on the tip portion 7, and irradiate the observation site with illumination light emitted from a light emission unit, which is another component of the illumination unit. The illumination light emitted from the light emission unit is propagated from a light source device connected by a universal cord 4 through a light guide that passes through the inside of the endoscope 1.

[0025] The first surface 20 is formed of a flat surface perpendicular to the insertion direction ID. The first surface 20 is provided with a forceps port 26, a nozzle 27 for ejecting fluid, and a forward water jet (WJ) ejection port 28.

[0026] The forceps port 26 communicates with the treatment tool introduction port 12 via a forceps tube, and a treatment tool inserted from the treatment tool introduction port 12 is led out from the forceps port 26. The forceps port 26 is also connected to a suction pump (negative pressure source) via the forceps tube. By operating the suction button 11, cleaning water and adhering matter (blood, etc. in the subject) are sucked out from the forceps port 26.

[0027] Nozzle 27 has an ejection port 27A for ejecting a fluid (liquid or gas), and ejection port 27A is directed toward the observation window 30. The ejection port 27A of nozzle 27 ejects the fluid onto the surface of observation window 30 and its peripheral portion in an ejection direction ED indicated by an arrow, and blows away and removes the cleaning water adhering to the observation window 30 located on the side of the ejection direction ED.

[0028] The forward water jet 28 jets liquid such as cleaning water or a medicinal solution toward the site to be observed. The forward water jet 28 communicates with a water jet line (not shown) arranged in the insertion section 2, the operation section 3, and the universal cord 4, and sprays liquid sent from the liquid sending device directly onto the site to be observed. The forward water jet 28 is disposed at a position adjacent to the forceps port 26 on the first surface 20.

[0029] The second surface 23 extends from the outer periphery of the tip surface 14 toward the nozzle 27 when viewed in the insertion direction ID, and has a substantially triangular shape.

[0030] The second surface 23 includes a flat surface 21 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 22 that connects the flat surface 21 and the first surface 20. The flat surface 21 is formed of a surface parallel to the first surface 20. The step portion 22 is formed of an inclined surface that becomes higher from the first surface 20 toward the flat surface 21.

[0031] Ridge line R1, which is the intersection between flat surface 21 of second surface 23 and step portion 22, is composed of a curved portion that follows the shape of observation window 30, and two approximately straight portions that extend from the curved portion toward the outer periphery of tip surface 14. The outer periphery of second surface 23 has a curved shape that follows the shape of the outer periphery of tip surface 14. Bottom S1, which is the intersection between first surface 20 and step portion 22, is composed of a curved portion that follows the shape of the observation window 30, and two approximately straight portions that extend from the curved portion toward the outer periphery of tip surface 14.

[0032] In the flat surface 21 of the second surface 23, the observation window 30 is disposed on the nozzle 27 side, and the second illumination window 34 is disposed on the opposite side to the nozzle 27 with the observation window 30 interposed therebetween.

[0033] The third surface 25 extends from the outer periphery of the tip surface 14 toward the second surface 23 as viewed in the insertion direction ID, and is located between the forceps port 26 and the nozzle 27. The outer periphery of the third surface 25 is curved to follow the shape of the outer periphery of the tip surface 14.

[0034] The third surface 25 includes a flat surface 29 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 24 that connects the flat surface 29 and the first surface 20. The flat surface 29 is configured by a surface parallel to the first surface 20. The step portion 24 is configured by an inclined surface that becomes higher from the first surface 20 toward the third surface 25.

[0035] 3 shows the height relationship among the first surface 20, the second surface 23, the third surface 25, and the nozzle 27. When the first surface 20 is set as the reference position in the height direction (insertion direction ID), the maximum height positions of the respective parts are higher in the order of the third surface 25, the second surface 23, and the nozzle 27. The third surface 25 is provided with the first illumination window 32, and from the viewpoint of improving visibility by widening the light distribution area toward the insertion direction ID, it is desirable that the third surface 25 is lower in height than the second surface 23. Note that, in carrying out the present invention, the height relationship between the third surface 25 and the second surface 23 is not necessarily limited, and for example, the third surface 25 and the second surface 23 may be at the same height.

[0036] The structure of the tip surface 14 of the first embodiment, which is a characteristic feature of the present invention, will be described in more detail.

[0037] First, when cleaning the observation window 30, the nozzle 27 sprays cleaning water from the nozzle 27A toward the observation window 30 to remove the cleaning water and deposits (blood, body fluids, etc.) adhering to the observation window 30. Next, the nozzle 27 sprays gas from the nozzle 27A to remove the cleaning water remaining on the observation window 30 or an area adjacent thereto.

[0038] However, there are cases where the cleaning water is not completely blown away by the fluid from the nozzle 27, and the cleaning water remains on the first surface 20. If the nozzle 27 performs an air supply operation in this state, a phenomenon occurs in which part of the cleaning water is pulled out (a so-called stringing phenomenon), and the cleaning water moves to the observation window 30, causing the cleaning water to be reflected in an observation image acquired through the observation window 30, resulting in a problem of reduced visibility of the observation window 30.

[0039] Therefore, the inventors have earnestly studied measures to suppress the phenomenon of cleaning water moving to the observation window 30 on the first surface 20. As a result, they have noticed that cleaning water remaining in the adjacent area AR adjacent to the nozzle 27 (particularly the area including the nozzle side area shown by diagonal lines on the forceps port 26 side of the nozzle 27) moves to the observation image and is reflected in the image, and have found that it is effective to relatively reduce the adjacent area AR present on the first surface 20, particularly the nozzle side area, by providing a third surface 25 that is higher than the first surface 20. The shape of the third surface 25 will be described in detail below.

[0040] As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the third surface 25 has a shape of a substantially isosceles triangle when viewed from the insertion direction ID. The ridgeline R2, which is an intersection between the flat surface 29 of the third surface 25 and the step portion 24, includes two straight line portions. The two straight line portions of the ridgeline R2 extend from the outer periphery of the tip surface 14 toward the ejection direction ED side and connect to each other, forming the end portion 25A of the third surface 25 in the ejection direction ED. The straight line portion of the ridgeline R2 on the nozzle 27 side extends from the outer periphery of the tip surface 14 along the nozzle 27. Here, "extending along the nozzle 27" means that the ridgeline R2 is formed approximately along the outer shape of the nozzle 27 (the outer shape on the ridgeline R2 side) at a position adjacent to the nozzle 27, and does not necessarily have to be formed following the outer shape of the nozzle 27. The bottom S2, which is an intersection between the first surface 20 and the step portion 24, includes two straight line portions.

[0041] In the first embodiment, when the formation position of the ejection port 27A in the ejection direction ED is defined as P, the end 25A of the third surface 25 is located in the ejection direction ED further from the formation position P of the ejection port 27A. In other words, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the tip surface 14 and perpendicular to the ejection direction ED, the end 25A of the third surface 25 is located between the ejection port 27A and the observation window 30. It is sufficient that at least a part of the region of the end 25A of the third surface 25 is located in the ejection direction ED further from the formation position P of the ejection port 27A. In other words, it is not necessary that the entire region of the end 25A of the third surface 25 is located in the ejection direction ED further from the formation position P of the ejection port 27A.

[0042] Here, the planar shape of the third surface 25 when viewed from the insertion direction ID will be described. The third surface 25 is an approximately isosceles triangle, and is configured to have a shape that tapers toward the ejection direction ED (toward the end 25A). That is, the third surface 25 has a protruding region 25B (a region including the end 25A) that extends in the ejection direction ED. By making it such a tapered shape, even if the region (adjacent region AR) between the forceps port 26 and the nozzle 27 is narrow, at least a part of the end 25A of the third surface 25 (i.e., the protruding region 25B including the end 25A) can be disposed in the ejection direction ED from the formation position P of the ejection port 27A. Note that in the first embodiment, the ridge R2 of the third surface 25 includes two straight line portions, and the ridge R2 does not follow the shape of the first illumination window 32.

[0043] In this manner, in the first embodiment, the third surface 25 configured as described above is disposed on the tip surface 14, so that the size of the adjacent area AR (particularly the area beside the nozzle) of the nozzle 27 on the first surface 20 can be relatively reduced, and the amount of cleaning water remaining on the tip surface 14 (adjacent area AR) can be generally reduced. This makes it difficult for the stringing phenomenon of cleaning water to occur when the air supply operation of the nozzle 27 is performed, suppresses the reflection of the cleaning water in the observation image, and makes it possible to improve the visibility of the observation window 30.

[0044] Next, the narrow width portion 40 provided between the second surface 23 and the third surface 25 will be described. As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the second surface 23 and the third surface 25 are disposed apart from each other, and the narrow width portion 40 is formed between the second surface 23 and the third surface 25. When the tip surface 14 is viewed from the insertion direction ID, the first surface 20 is composed of two surfaces sandwiching the narrow width portion 40, one of which is a forceps port arrangement surface 20A on which the forceps port 26 is arranged, and the other is a nozzle arrangement surface 20B on which the nozzle 27 is arranged (see Fig. 4).

[0045] 2 and 3, the width of the narrow portion 40 (the shortest distance between the second surface 23 and the third surface 25) is configured to be smaller than the shortest distance between the ejection port 27A and the second surface 23. Specifically, the distance L1 between the bottom S1 of the second surface 23 and the bottom S2 of the third surface 25 in the narrow portion 40 is configured to be shorter than the distance L2 between the ejection port 27A and the bottom S1 of the second surface 23.

[0046] According to the configuration in which the narrow width portion 40 is provided between the second surface 23 and the third surface 25 in this manner, even if highly viscous deposits (blood, body fluids, etc.) remain in the ejection port peripheral region AR1 on the nozzle arrangement surface 20B of the first surface 20, the deposits are made to accumulate in the remaining region of the ejection port peripheral region AR1, particularly the region indicated by oblique lines, so that the negative pressure generated in the forceps port 26 by the suction operation can be efficiently applied to the deposits in the remaining region, and as a result, the deposits can be sucked into the forceps port 26 along the arrow direction FL. Note that, in carrying out the present invention, the width of the narrow width portion 40 does not necessarily have to be configured to be smaller than the shortest distance between the ejection port 27A and the second surface 23, but from the viewpoint of efficiently applying negative pressure to the deposits remaining in the ejection port peripheral region AR1 and sucking them into the forceps port 26, it is desirable that the width of the narrow width portion 40 be configured to be smaller than the shortest distance between the ejection port 27A and the second surface 23. Although the suction of adhering matter has been described above, even if any cleaning water remains, it can be sucked into the forceps port 26 by the suction operation in the same manner as the adhering matter.

[0047] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the third surface 25, which is higher than the first surface 20, is provided between the forceps port 26 and the nozzle 27, and further, the end 25A in the ejection direction ED of the third surface 25 is disposed in the ejection direction ED from the formation position of the ejection port 27A of the nozzle 27, so that the adjacent area AR (particularly the nozzle side area) in the first surface 20 becomes relatively small, and the amount of cleaning water remaining in the first surface 20 can be generally suppressed. As a result, when the air supply operation of the nozzle 27 is performed, the stringing phenomenon of the cleaning water is unlikely to occur, the reflection of the cleaning water in the observation image is suppressed, and the visibility of the observation window 30 can be improved.

[0048] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the narrow width portion 40 provided between the second surface 23 and the third surface 25 allows the negative pressure generated at the forceps opening 26 to be efficiently applied to the deposits remaining in the nozzle peripheral area AR1 (particularly the remaining area) on the first surface 20, and the deposits can be sucked up by the forceps opening 26. Even if cleaning water remains in the nozzle peripheral area AR1 on the first surface 20, it is also possible to suck the cleaning water into the forceps opening 26 by a suction operation, in the same way as the deposits.

[0049] <Modification> Next, a modified example of the tip surface of the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 5 is a view for explaining the modified example. In Fig. 5, the same reference numerals are given to the parts common to the first embodiment described above, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0050] 5, the shape of the third surface 52 differs from the shape of the third surface 25 of the embodiment described above when viewed from the insertion direction ID, and the third surface 52 in the modified example has a substantially rectangular shape. The third surface 52 includes a flat surface 54 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 53 that is a portion connecting the flat surface 54 and the first surface 20. The first illumination window 32 is disposed on the flat surface 54.

[0051] Ridge line R3 between flat surface 54 of third surface 52 and step portion 53 includes three straight line portions, consisting of two parallel straight line portions extending from the outer periphery of tip surface 50 toward ejection direction ED, and one straight line portion connecting the two straight line portions on the ejection direction ED side of formation position P of ejection port 27A. The one straight line portion connecting the two straight line portions constitutes end portion 52A.

[0052] The bottom S3 of the first surface 20 and the step portion 53 includes three straight lines similar to the ridge line R3, and is composed of two parallel straight lines extending from the outer periphery of the tip surface 50 toward the ejection direction ED, and one straight line connecting the two straight lines on the ejection direction ED side of the formation position P of the ejection port 27A.

[0053] By forming the third surface 52 into a substantially rectangular shape, even if the distance between the forceps opening 26 and the nozzle 27 is wider than in the first embodiment described above, the adjacent area AR (particularly the area beside the nozzle) (both not shown) on the first surface 20 can be made relatively small more effectively. This prevents the cleaning water from remaining on the first surface 20, and therefore prevents the cleaning water from moving to the observation window 30.

[0054] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the above-mentioned first embodiment, a case has been described in which the tip surface 14 includes a first surface 20, a second surface 23 protruding from the first surface 20 in the insertion direction ID, and a third surface 25 protruding from the first surface 20 in the insertion direction ID. In the second embodiment, the structure of the tip surface is different. Below, a description of the points in common with the first embodiment will be omitted, and only points different from the first embodiment will be described.

[0055] As shown in 6-1 and 6-2 of Fig. 6, the distal end surface 100 includes a first surface 120, a second surface 123 protruding from the first surface 120 in the insertion direction ID, a third surface 125 protruding from the first surface 120 in the insertion direction ID, and a fourth surface 130 protruding from the first surface 120 in the insertion direction ID. The first surface 120 is provided with a forceps port 26 and a nozzle 27. Note that 6-2 of Fig. 6 has a structure in which the shape of the distal end surface 100 in 6-1 of Fig. 6 is inverted, and the second embodiment may be either of 6-1 and 6-2 of Fig. 6.

[0056] 6, the second surface 123 has a circular shape when viewed from the insertion direction ID, and a ridge R4 and a bottom S4 of the second surface 123 are also formed in a circular shape. The second surface 123 includes a flat surface 121 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 122 that connects the flat surface 121 and the first surface 120. An observation window 30 is disposed on the flat surface 121.

[0057] The fourth surface 130 is disposed between the forceps opening 26 and the second surface 123. The fourth surface 130 includes a flat surface 132 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 131 that connects the flat surface 132 and the first surface 120. The second illumination window 34 is disposed on the flat surface 132.

[0058] The ridge R6 of the fourth surface 130 includes two straight line portions extending parallel to each other from the outer periphery of the distal end surface 100 toward the gap between the forceps opening 26 and the second surface 123, and a curved portion connecting the two straight line portions. The flat surface 132 has an overall bullet-like shape. The curved portion has a shape that follows the shape of the first illumination window 32.

[0059] In addition, the bottom S6 of the fourth surface 130 includes two straight line portions extending in parallel from the outer periphery of the tip surface 100 toward between the forceps opening 26 and the second surface 123, and a curved portion connecting the two straight line portions. The step portion 131 has a bullet-like shape as a whole. The step portion 131 of the fourth surface 130 has an inclined surface that inclines toward the flat surface 132.

[0060] The third surface 125 is disposed between the forceps port 26 and the nozzle 27. The third surface 125 includes a flat surface 121 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 122 that connects the flat surface 121 and the first surface 120. The first illumination window 32 is disposed on the flat surface 121, and the forward water supply outlet 28 is disposed on the step portion 122.

[0061] Ridge line R5 of third surface 125 includes two straight line portions extending parallel to each other from the outer periphery of tip surface 100 toward second surface 123, and a curved portion connecting the two straight line portions. Flat surface 121 has a bullet-like shape as a whole.

[0062] In addition, bottom S5 of third surface 125 includes two approaching straight line portions extending from the outer periphery of tip surface 100 in the direction of second surface 123. Step portion 122 has a generally triangular shape as a whole. Step portion 122 of third surface 125 has an inclined surface that inclines toward flat surface 121. The inclination angle of step portion 122 of third surface 125 is smaller than the inclination angle of step portion 22 of third surface 25 of the first embodiment.

[0063] End 125A of third surface 125 is formed by the connection of two straight line portions of bottom S5 of third surface 125, and end 125A is located in ejection direction ED from formation position P of ejection port 27A. In the second embodiment, protruding region 125B is formed by step portion 122. Third surface 125 as a whole tapers in the ejection direction ED toward end 125A.

[0064] 6, as in the first embodiment, an end 125A of the third surface 125 in the ejection direction ED is positioned in the ejection direction ED from the formation position of the nozzle 27, thereby making it possible to relatively reduce an adjacent area AR (particularly an area beside the nozzle) (both not shown) on the first surface 120. This makes it possible to prevent the cleaning water from remaining on the first surface 120, and therefore to prevent the cleaning water from moving to the observation window 30. As a result, when the air supply operation of the nozzle 27 is performed, the stringing phenomenon of the cleaning water is less likely to occur, the reflection of the cleaning water in the observation image is suppressed, and the visibility of the observation window 30 can be improved.

[0065] Furthermore, a narrow width portion 140 is formed between the second surface 123 and the third surface 125. The narrow width portion 140 allows negative pressure generated in the forceps opening 26 to act on the deposit remaining in the nozzle peripheral area AR1 (particularly the remaining area) (both not shown) on the first surface 120, thereby allowing the deposit to be sucked by the forceps opening 26. Even if cleaning water remains in the nozzle peripheral area AR1 of the first surface 120, it is also possible to suck the cleaning water into the forceps opening 26 by a suction operation, in the same way as with the deposit.

[0066] <Modification> Next, a description will be given of a modified example of the tip surface of the second embodiment. In Fig. 7 to Fig. 9, the same reference numerals are used for the parts common to the second embodiment described above, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0067] (Variation 1) Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining Modification 1. In the tip surface 102 shown in Fig. 7, the shape of the third surface 142 is different from the shape of the third surface 125 of the above-mentioned second embodiment when viewed from the insertion direction ID, and in Modification 1, the third surface 142 has a generally rectangular shape as a whole.

[0068] The third surface 142 includes a flat surface 141 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 143 that is a portion connecting the flat surface 141 and the first surface 120. The first illumination window 32 is disposed on the flat surface 141. The inclination angle of the step portion 143 is larger than the inclination angle of the step portion 122 of the second embodiment.

[0069] The ridgeline R7 between the flat surface 141 of the third surface 142 and the step portion 143 includes three straight line portions, and is composed of two parallel straight line portions extending from the outer periphery of the tip surface 102 toward the ejection direction ED and one straight line portion connecting the two straight line portions. Similarly to the ridgeline R7, the bottom S7 between the first surface 120 and the step portion 143 includes three straight line portions, and is composed of two parallel straight line portions extending from the outer periphery of the tip surface 102 toward the ejection direction ED and one straight line portion connecting the two straight line portions. The one straight line portion connecting the two straight line portions forms the end portion 142A, and the end portion 142A is located in the ejection direction ED from the formation position P of the ejection port 27A.

[0070] In the first modification, by forming the third surface 142 into a substantially rectangular shape, even if the distance between the forceps port 26 and the nozzle 27 is wider than in the second embodiment, the adjacent area AR on the first surface 120 can be made smaller. This prevents the cleaning water from remaining on the first surface 120, and therefore prevents the cleaning water from moving to the observation window 30.

[0071] Furthermore, since the area of ​​the flat surface 141 is larger than that of the flat surface 121 of the second embodiment, the degree of freedom in arranging the first illumination window 32 is increased.

[0072] (Variation 2) Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining Modification 2. In the tip surface 104 shown in Fig. 8, the shape of the third surface 152 is different from the shape of the third surface 125 of the above-mentioned second embodiment when viewed from the insertion direction ID, and in Modification 2, the third surface 152 has a generally bullet-like shape as a whole.

[0073] The third surface 152 includes a flat surface 154 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 153 that is a portion connecting the flat surface 154 and the first surface 120. The first illumination window 32 is disposed on the flat surface 154. The inclination angle of the step portion 153 is larger than the inclination angle of the step portion 122 of the second embodiment and smaller than the step portion 143 of the first modification.

[0074] A ridgeline R8 between flat surface 154 of third surface 152 and step portion 153 is made up of two straight line portions extending parallel to each other from the outer periphery of tip surface 104 toward ejection direction ED, and one curved line portion connecting the two straight line portions.

[0075] Similarly to the ridge line R8, the bottom S8 between the first surface 120 and the step portion 153 is composed of two approaching straight line portions extending from the outer periphery of the tip surface 104 toward the ejection direction ED, and one curved portion connecting the two straight line portions.

[0076] The curved portion of the hem S8 constitutes an end portion 152A, and the end portion 152A is located in the jetting direction ED from the formation position P of the jetting port 27A.

[0077] In the second modification, by forming the third surface 152 into a substantially bullet-shaped shape, even if the distance between the forceps opening 26 and the nozzle 27 is wider than in the second embodiment, the nozzle 27 can be approached, and the adjacent area AR (particularly the area beside the nozzle) (both not shown) in the first surface 120 can be made relatively small. This prevents the cleaning water from remaining on the first surface 120, and therefore prevents the cleaning water from moving to the observation window 30.

[0078] Furthermore, since the area of ​​the flat surface 154 is larger than that of the flat surface 121 of the second embodiment, the degree of freedom in arranging the first illumination window 32 is increased.

[0079] (Variation 3) 9-1 and 9-2 of Fig. 9 are diagrams for explaining Modification 3. In the tip surface 106 shown in Fig. 9-1 and 9-2, the shape of the fourth surface 160 is different from the shape of the fourth surface 130 of the second embodiment described above when viewed from the insertion direction ID, and in Modification 3, the fourth surface 160 has a substantially triangular shape as a whole. Note that 9-2 of Fig. 9 has a structure in which the shape of the tip surface 106 of 9-1 of Fig. 9 is inverted, and Modification 3 may be either of 9-1 and 9-2 of Fig. 9.

[0080] 9, the fourth surface 160 is disposed between the forceps opening 26 and the second surface 123. The fourth surface 160 includes a flat surface 162 formed perpendicular to the insertion direction ID, and a step portion 161 that connects the flat surface 162 and the first surface 120. The second illumination window 34 is disposed on the flat surface 162.

[0081] The ridge R9 of the fourth surface 160 is composed of two straight line portions extending parallel to each other from the outer periphery of the tip surface 106 toward between the forceps opening 26 and the second surface 123, and a curved portion connecting the two straight line portions. The flat surface 162 has a generally bullet-like shape. The curved portion has a shape following the shape of the first illumination window 32.

[0082] In addition, bottom S9 of fourth surface 160 includes two straight line portions that approach each other from the outer periphery of tip surface 106 toward the area between forceps opening 26 and second surface 123. Step portion 161 has a generally triangular shape. Step portion 161 of fourth surface 160 has an inclined surface that inclines toward flat surface 162.

[0083] Since the third modification has the same third surface 125 as the second embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, the adjacent area AR (particularly the nozzle side area) (both not shown) on the first surface 120 can be made relatively small to prevent the cleaning water from moving to the observation window 30. Furthermore, the narrow width portion 140 allows the negative pressure generated in the forceps opening 26 to act on the deposit remaining in the nozzle peripheral area AR1 (particularly the remaining area) (both not shown) on the first surface 120, thereby allowing the deposit to be sucked from the forceps opening 26. Furthermore, even if cleaning water remains in the nozzle peripheral area AR1 of the first surface 120, it is also possible to suck the cleaning water into the forceps opening 26 by a suction operation, similar to the deposit.

[0084] <Disclosure of other inventions> Next, embodiments 1 and 2 of another invention (hereinafter referred to as other embodiments 1 and 2) will be described.

[0085] <Another embodiment 1> As shown in FIG. 1, the tip portion 7 is connected to the bending portion 6, and by manipulating the angle knobs 8 and 9, the tip portion 7 can be oriented in a desired direction.

[0086] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the tip portion 7 and the bending portion 6. As shown in Fig. 10, the bending portion 6 includes a plurality of metal rings 200 (also called node rings or links) connected along the insertion direction ID, a net 204 made of braided metal wires covering the outer periphery of each ring 200, and a tube 201 covering the net 204. Adjacent rings 200 are connected to each other by crimp pins 203 so as to be freely rotatable. These rings 200 and crimp pins 203 are made of metal.

[0087] A plurality of angle wires (not shown) are inserted inside each ring 200. One end of each angle wire is connected to the tip portion 7, and the other end is connected to a rotating member (not shown) which is rotated by angle knobs 8 and 9. As a result, the bending portion 6 is remotely operated to bend (angle) by rotating the angle knobs 8 and 9 provided on the operation portion 3.

[0088] The bending portion 6 is inserted with, for example, a forceps tube 206 communicating with the forceps port 26 of the tip portion 7, an air / water supply tube 207 communicating with the nozzle 27, and a WJ (water jet) tube 208 communicating with the forward water supply nozzle 28.

[0089] Air / water supply tube 207 and WJ tube 208 are generally required to have flexibility with respect to bending, airtightness, and chemical resistance, and therefore often use fluororesin-based tubes such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) tubes.

[0090] However, if the PTFE tube used in the air / water supply tube 207 and the WJ tube 208 comes into contact with the crimp pin 203 within the curved section 6, it can cause holes in the PTFE tube, resulting in air leakage. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the strength of the PTFE tube against the crimp pin 203, for example, by covering the PTFE tube with a contact spring made of SUS (Steel Special Use Stainless).

[0091] Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining a first method for covering a contact spring 210 on a PTFE tube 211. As shown in 11-1 of Fig. 11, an adhesive 212A is applied to one end of the PTFE tube 211. The contact spring 210 exteriorly mounted on the PTFE tube 211 is moved in a moving direction F (the direction of the adhesive 212A) indicated by an arrow.

[0092] Next, as shown in FIG. 11-2, the contact spring 210 is moved to the position of the adhesive 212A, and one end of the contact spring 210 is adhered to the PTFE tube 211 via the adhesive 212.

[0093] 11-3, the adhesive 212B is applied to the PTFE tube 211 at a position away from the other end of the contact spring 210. This is because the contact spring 210 is wound without any gaps, and therefore the adhesive 212B cannot be applied between the contact spring 210 and the PTFE tube 211.

[0094] Finally, as shown in FIG. 11-4, the other end of the contact spring 210 is extended to the position of the adhesive 212B, and the contact spring 210 and the PTFE tube 211 are bonded together via the adhesive 212B.

[0095] In the first method, since it is necessary to stretch the contact spring 210 to adhere it, the contact spring 210 is not completely in contact, and a gap G occurs in the contact spring 210. The crimping pin 203 enters this gap G, and the crimping pin 203 becomes a cause of a hole being formed in the PTFE tube 211.

[0096] Therefore, in the first alternative embodiment, a tightly wound spring having an openly wound portion at least at the end is used to prevent the crimp pin 203 from creating a hole in the PTFE tube 211.

[0097] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a second method for covering a PTFE tube 211 with a tightly wound spring 215 having an openly wound portion 215A at an end thereof.

[0098] As shown in 12-1 of Fig. 12, an adhesive 212A is applied to one end of a PTFE tube 211, and a contact spring 215 is moved to the side of the adhesive 212A. The contact spring 215 has an openly wound portion 215A at an end, and the openly wound portion 215A is wound in advance with a certain gap G1. On the other hand, the contact spring 215 has a contact portion 215B that is wound tightly except for the openly wound portion 215A. One end of the contact spring 215 (contact portion 215B) is adhered to the PTFE tube 211 via the adhesive 212A.

[0099] 12-2, the applicator 213 applies the adhesive 212B onto the openly coiled portion 215A. Since a certain gap G1 is provided in advance in the openly coiled portion 215A, the adhesive 212 reaches the PTFE tube 211.

[0100] Finally, as shown in FIG. 12-3, the contact spring 215 is bonded to the PTFE tube 211 via the adhesive 212B without stretching the contact spring 215.

[0101] The contact spring 215 of Alternative Embodiment 1 is configured with the contact portion 215B where the spring is in close contact with the PTFE tube 211 in a portion other than the openly coiled portion 215A, so that the crimping pin 203 can be prevented from contacting the PTFE tube 211. Also, the gap G1 of the openly coiled portion 215A is filled with the adhesive 212B, so that the crimping pin 203 can be prevented from contacting the PTFE tube 211. By using the contact spring 215 having the openly coiled portion 215A at the end, the strength of the PTFE tube 211 against the crimping pin 203 can be improved over the entire range of the contact spring 215.

[0102] In 12-1 to 12-3 of FIG. 12, the close spring 215 having the openly wound portion 215A at the end is illustrated, but the close spring 215 may have the openly wound portion 215A at both ends and the close spring 215B between the two openly wound portions 215A. As shown in 12-4 of FIG. 12, by providing the openly wound portion 215A at both ends, the adhesive 212A and 212B can be applied from above the openly wound portion 215A at both ends by the application device 213 after the close spring 215 is sheathed on the PTFE tube 211. In the close spring 215 shown in 12-4 of FIG. 12, the strength of the PTFE tube 211 against the crimp pin 203 can be improved over the entire range. In addition, the relative positional relationship between the PTFE tube 211 and the close spring 215 can be easily determined.

[0103] <Another embodiment 2> As shown in Fig. 1, the endoscope 1 has a treatment tool introduction port 12 in the operation section 3. A treatment tool is inserted from the treatment tool introduction port 12 and is led out from a forceps port 26 at the tip section 7. By using the treatment tool, the surgeon performs treatment such as incising or resecting biological tissue, or coagulating to stop bleeding.

[0104] Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is known as an example of a treatment using the endoscope 1. ESD is a treatment in which, when a lesion such as a tumor is found in the mucosal portion of the inner wall of a body cavity such as the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, or large intestine by endoscopic examination, the lesion mucosa is excised using a treatment tool.

[0105] A high-frequency treatment tool is known as a treatment tool used in ESD. Fig. 13 shows an example of the structure of the tip of a high-frequency treatment tool (treatment tool body). As shown in Fig. 13, the treatment tool body 300 has a pair of claws 301, 301. Each of the pair of claws 301 has a plurality of tapered blades 302 on the opposing sides. The pair of claws 301 are supported by a shaft 304 of a holding member 303. A connection wire 305 is connected to each end of the pair of claws 301. The claws 301 and the connection wire 305 are electrically connected.

[0106] The holding member 303 is connected to a flexible sheath 307. An operation wire (not shown) connected to a connection wire 305 is inserted through the flexible sheath 307, and the pair of claws 301 can be opened and closed by pushing and pulling the operation wire.

[0107] Since high frequency is applied to the treatment tool body 300, the claw portion 301 is covered with an insulating material 306 except for the portion of the blade 302, as shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 13, and further, the portion except for the connection portion between the claw portion 301 and the connection wire 305 is also covered with an insulating material or the like.

[0108] Incidentally, if there is a metal part inside the forceps port 26, when the treatment tool main body 300 is led out from the forceps port 26 of the tip portion 7 and a high-frequency treatment tool is energized, sparks may occur at the metal part due to the presence of bodily fluids, etc., which may cause damage to the resin part of the tip portion 7. For this reason, it is desirable to provide the tip portion 7 with a structure that prevents sparks.

[0109] Therefore, in alternative embodiment 2, the portion inside the forceps port 26 of the tip portion 7 is made of resin, thereby preventing sparks from occurring between the treatment tool body 300 and the metal portion when electricity is applied to the high-frequency treatment tool.

[0110] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the tip portion 7. As shown in FIG. 14, the tip portion 7 includes a metal tip portion body 400 and a ring-shaped resin tip cap 401 attached to the tip side of the tip portion body 400. An observation window 30 is arranged on the tip surface 14 of the tip portion 7. A lens group 402, a prism 403, an image pickup element 404, a main board 405, a sub-board 406, and a signal cable 407 are arranged behind the observation window 30 (on the base end side). The image pickup element 404 is attached to the main board 405. Components that could not be attached to the main board 405 are attached to the sub-board 406. A multi-core cable is used as the signal cable 407. The signal cable 407 includes a plurality of wires 408, and the plurality of wires 408 are electrically connected to the main board 405 and the sub-board 406.

[0111] In the distal end body 400, a resin-made forceps pipe 410 that communicates with the forceps port 26 is disposed behind (on the base end side) the forceps port 26. The forceps pipe 410 is made of, for example, polysulfone. The forceps pipe 410 has a tubular shape with openings on the distal end side and the base end side. A flange 410A is provided on the outer periphery of the forceps pipe 410 along the circumferential direction. A resin-made forceps tube 206 is connected to the base end side of the forceps pipe 410. The forceps tube 206 is made of, for example, a PTFE tube. A connection portion 412 between the forceps pipe 410 and the forceps tube 206 (a portion where the forceps tube 206 is covered by the forceps pipe 410) is disposed inside the distal end body 400. That is, the forceps pipe 410 does not protrude from the distal end body 400 to the base end side.

[0112] A spiral groove 206A is formed in the circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the forceps tube 206. A metal wire 413 is wound spirally along the groove 206A. The metal wire 413 can improve the kink resistance of the forceps tube 206.

[0113] A space is formed by the flange 410A and the tip body 400, and adhesive 414 is provided in this space along the flange 410A. Also, adhesive 415 is provided between the tip body 400 and the forceps tube 206 on the base end side of the tip body 400.

[0114] Next, the features of the tip portion 7 of the second alternative embodiment will be described.

[0115] At the tip portion 7, the forceps pipe 410 is made of resin, so the path through which the treatment tool body 300 of the high frequency treatment tool passes (the forceps tube 206, the forceps pipe 410, and the tip cap 401) is entirely made of resin. That is, at the tip portion 7, the path of the treatment tool body 300 does not include a metal part, so that it is possible to prevent the occurrence of sparks.

[0116] Furthermore, since the connection part 412 is disposed inside the tip part main body 400, the forceps pipe 410 made of resin can be prevented from breaking.

[0117] In addition, since the forceps pipe 410 is provided with the flange 410A, when the forceps tube 206 is fitted around the forceps pipe 410, the tip side of the forceps tube 206 comes into contact with the flange 410A. As a result, the forceps pipe 410 and the forceps tube 206 can be easily positioned.

[0118] Moreover, by forming a space between the flange 410A and the tip body 400, it is possible to secure an area for storing the adhesive 414. Furthermore, by providing the adhesive 415, it is possible to prevent the forceps tube 206 from swinging at this location and coming into contact with the tip body 400, and damage to the forceps tube 206 can be suppressed.

[0119] Although the endoscope according to the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention may be improved or modified in several ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1 Endoscope 2 Insertion section 3 Control section 4 Universal Code 5 Soft part 6 Curved section 7 Tip 8, 9 Angle knob 10 Air / water supply button 11 Suction button 12 Treatment tool inlet 14 Tip surface 20 Page 1 20A Forceps mouth placement surface 20B Nozzle arrangement surface 21 Flat surface 22 Step 23 Side 2 24 Step 25 Page 3 25A end 25B Projection area 26 Forceps port 27 Nozzle 27A injection port 28 Front water outlet 29 Flat surface 30 Observation window 32 First lighting window 34 Second lighting window 40 Narrow part 50 Tip surface 52 Page 3 52A end 53 Step 54 Flat surface 100, 102, 104, 106, 106 tip surface 120 Page 1 121 Flat surface 122 Step 123 2nd page 125 Page 3 125A end 125B Projection area 130 Page 4 131 Step 132 Flat surface 140 Narrow section 141 Flat surface 142 Page 3 142A End 143 Step 152 3rd page 152A End 153 Step 154 Flat surface 160 Page 4 161 Step 162 Flat surface 200 rings 201 Tube 203 Rivet 204 Net 206 Forceps tube 206A Groove 207 Air and water supply tube 208 WJ Tube 210 Close Spring 211 PTFE tube 212A Adhesive 212B Adhesive 215 Close Spring 215A loosely wound part 215B Contact area 300 Treatment tool body 301 Claw part 302 Blade 303 Retaining member 304 Axis 305 Connecting Wire 306 Insulating materials 307 Flexible Sheath 400 Tip body 401 Tip cap 402 Lens Group 403 Prism 404 Image sensor 405 Main Board 406 Sub-board 407 Signal Cable 408 Wire 410 Forceps Pipe 410A Flange 412 Connection 413 Metal Wire Adhesives 414 and 415 AR adjacent area Area around the AR1 injection port ED injection direction Clearances G and G1 ID insertion direction Distances L1 and L2 Formation position P Edges R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9 Flanges S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9

Claims

1. an insertion section to be inserted into a subject; A first surface is disposed on a tip surface of the insertion portion; A forceps port disposed on the first surface; a second surface protruding from the first surface along an insertion direction of the insertion portion; an observation window disposed on the second surface; a nozzle disposed on the first surface and configured to eject a fluid from an ejection port toward the observation window; a third surface protruding from the first surface along an insertion direction of the insertion portion; a first illumination window disposed on the third surface, an endoscope, wherein the third surface is located between the nozzle and the forceps port, and an end portion of the third surface in the fluid ejection direction is located in the ejection direction from a position where the ejection port is formed.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the third surface includes a protruding region including the end extending in the ejection direction, between a position where the first illumination window is formed and the nozzle.

3. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the third surface tapers from an outer periphery of the tip surface along the nozzle toward the end in the ejection direction.

4. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a ridge line of the third surface on the side of the nozzle extends along the nozzle.

5. The endoscope according to claim 1 , wherein a second illumination window is disposed on the second surface on the opposite side of the nozzle with respect to the observation window.

6. The endoscope according to claim 1 , further comprising a narrow portion formed by the second surface and the third surface.

7. The endoscope according to claim 6 , wherein a distance between a bottom of the second surface and a bottom of the third surface in the narrow portion is shorter than a distance between the injection port and a bottom of the second surface.

Images