Nasal endoscope guide

Abstract

To provide a nasal endoscope insertion guide tool that enables a nasal endoscope to be easily inserted into a passage in a nasal cavity. [Solution] This is achieved by an insertion guide device for a nasal endoscope, which comprises a flexible cannula (1) and a flexible tube or cylindrical body (11), characterized in that the flexible tube or cylindrical body (11) guides the insertion tube of the nasal endoscope.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a nasal endoscope guide tool for guiding the insertion of a nasal endoscope, a nasal endoscope guide tool kit, and a nasal endoscope guidance system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, nasal endoscopes with a smaller diameter than the insertion tube of oral endoscopes have been developed and proposed (Patent Document 1). Since the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope is inserted not through the oral cavity but through the external nostril, it is less likely to cause vomiting due to the pharyngeal reflex compared to oral endoscopes, and it causes less pain to the treated animal, and therefore it has rapidly become popular.

[0003] Conventionally, an insertion aid has been proposed that includes an inner tube for inserting and guiding the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope in order to prevent damage caused by direct contact of the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope with the mucous membrane in the nasal cavity and to facilitate insertion of the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope (Patent Document 2).

[0004] By the way, there are two possible routes through which the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope can be inserted in the nasal cavity of an animal: one through the middle nasal meatus and one through the inferior nasal meatus. After selecting one of these two routes, pretreatment is performed (administration of a vasoconstrictor, sedative, analgesic, or anesthetic, etc.), and the nasal endoscope is inserted into the pretreated route.

[0005] However, the operation of a nasal endoscope cannot be seen or confirmed from the outside because the pretreated path is inside the living body, and therefore accurate and quick insertion of the nasal endoscope into the pretreated path depends on the experience and skill of the practitioner, so practitioners with little experience and poor skill may take a long time to operate and may insert the nasal endoscope into a path that has not been pretreated due to incorrect path selection.

[0006] In particular, practitioners who are unfamiliar with and have little experience in operating a nasal endoscope may be confused during the procedure and may choose the wrong route, resulting in time-consuming insertion and messy operation, which may cause damage to the inside of the nasal cavity, the vicinity of the esophageal entrance, or the vicinity of the tracheal entrance, imposing physical burdens (pain and injury) and mental burdens (feelings of pressure, anxiety, disgust, etc.) on the animal being treated.In addition, since the insertion aid in the above prior art (Patent Document 2) contains the insertion tube of the nasal endoscope within its tube, the inner and outer diameters of the insertion aid are also large, and the wearing of the insertion aid actually imposes greater physical and mental burdens on the animal being treated.

[0007] Therefore, there is still a demand for improvements in nasal endoscopes and for research and development of guidance tools for nasal endoscopes, and there is a strong demand for the construction of a guidance tool (kit) and guidance system that guides the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope into an accurate pre-prepared selected path. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-068030 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2009-125345 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The present invention proposes to provide an insertion guide tool (kit) and guidance system for a nasal endoscope, which ensures the correct selection and insertion of the intranasal route into which the insertion tube of a nasal endoscope is inserted, significantly prevents mistakes in route selection when inserting a nasal endoscope, reduces the physical burden on the animal being treated, and significantly suppresses the mental burden; and, further, which proposes to provide a nasal endoscope insertion guide tool (kit) and guidance system which can significantly guide and easily insert a nasal endoscope into an appropriately prepared intranasal route, regardless of the experience and skill of the practitioner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] [One aspect of the present invention] The present invention proposes the following invention as one embodiment thereof. [1] A nasal endoscope guidance device, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; the flexible cannula is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle meatus position, the inferior meatus position, the esophageal entrance, and the tracheal entrance; the flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the insertion site of the flexible cannula, through the insertion hole, and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; After inserting the flexible tube or barrel, the flexible cannula is removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope. [2] A nasal endoscope guidance device, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle nasal meatus position, the inferior nasal meatus position, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the flexible cannula is guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the inserted flexible cannula is then removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope. [3] The nasal endoscope guidance device according to [1] or [2], wherein the flexible cannula is removed from the external nasal passage and remains retained in the flexible tube or cylinder. [4] A nasal endoscope guidance kit, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; the flexible cannula is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle meatus position, the inferior meatus position, the esophageal entrance, and the tracheal entrance; the flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the insertion site of the flexible cannula, through the insertion hole, and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; After inserting the flexible tube or barrel, the flexible cannula is removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope, in this nasal endoscope guidance kit. [5] A nasal endoscope guidance kit, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula comprising an insertion site; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle nasal meatus position, the inferior nasal meatus position, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the flexible cannula is guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the inserted flexible cannula is then removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope, in this nasal endoscope guidance kit. [6] The nasal endoscope guidance kit according to [4] or [5], wherein the flexible cannula is removed from the external nasal passage and remains retained in the flexible tube or cylinder. [7] A nasal endoscope guidance system, comprising: Providing a flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder; The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; inserting the flexible cannula through the nostril to a position of either the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; inserting the flexible tube or cylinder from the insertion site of the flexible cannula through the insertion hole to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; After inserting the flexible tube or barrel, removing the flexible cannula from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylinder guides an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope. [8] A nasal endoscope guidance device system, comprising: Providing a flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder; The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; inserting the flexible tube or cylinder through the nostril to a position of either the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; inserting the flexible cannula, guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder, to a position of either the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; removing the inserted flexible cannula from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylinder guides an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope. [9] The nasal endoscope guidance system of [7] or [8], further comprising: removing the flexible cannula from the nostril while leaving it retained in the flexible tube or cylinder. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, by inserting a flexible tube or cylinder after inserting a flexible cannula into the nasal cavity in advance; or by inserting a flexible tube or cylinder in advance; the flexible tube or cylinder can be used to significantly guide the insertion tube of the transnasal endoscope, ensuring correct selection and insertion of the intranasal passage. Also, the flexible cannula or flexible tube or cylinder can be used for pretreatment (administration of vasoconstrictors, sedatives, analgesics, anesthetics, etc.).

[0012] Then, by removing the flexible cannula from the nasal cavity and leaving the flexible tube or cylinder in the selected intranasal path, it is possible to significantly prevent mistakes in intranasal path selection when inserting the transnasal endoscope after pre-processing, and since the insertion tube does not come into direct sliding contact with the inner wall of the nasal cavity, damage to the inner wall of the nasal cavity can be significantly avoided.

[0013] Furthermore, since the insertion tube of the nasal endoscope can be inserted by following the flexible tube or cylinder left in the selected intranasal passage, the (insertion tube of) nasal endoscope can be accurately and easily guided and inserted into the pre-prepared selected intranasal passage regardless of the experience and skill of the practitioner (veterinarian, doctor, etc.). As a result, it is possible to reduce the mental burden on the practitioner and shorten the time required to insert the nasal endoscope, and to achieve a high level of reduction in the physical burden (pain and injury) of the animal to be treated and suppression of the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, anxiety, etc.) of the animal to be treated. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of each of components constituting a nasal endoscope guide tool, including a flexible cannula, a flexible tube or cylindrical body, and a syringe (if necessary). [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a nasal endoscope guide kit in which a flexible cannula, a flexible tube or cylindrical body, and a syringe (if necessary) are combined. [Diagram 3]FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a flexible cannula in the transnasal endoscope guidance system 1 is inserted from an external nostril. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the contents of the transnasal endoscope guidance system 1. As shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a flexible tube or cylinder in the transnasal endoscope guidance system 2 being inserted from the external nostril. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the contents of the transnasal endoscope guidance system 2. As shown in FIG. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THEINVENTION

[0015] [Definition] A "nasal endoscope guide" is an instrument that guides (guides, marks, and assists) a nasal endoscope (its insertion tube) from the external nostril through a predetermined selected intranasal passage site to a desired site, such as the oropharynx, hypopharynx, esophageal entrance, or tracheal entrance, smoothly, accurately, and quickly. Therefore, regardless of the name "guide," any device that fulfills such functions and roles falls within the category of a "nasal endoscope guide" according to the present invention. "Cannula" generally means "small reed" in Latin, and is a tube (hollow cylinder) that can be inserted into the body to inject or aspirate liquids or gases. In the present invention, although it is not intended to be limited to a specific object, "cannula" generally means a large tube that has a specific diameter for comfortable insertion through the external nostril, is hollow, and has excellent flexibility and softness. A "tube" is generally a hollow cylinder or pipe. A "cylinder" refers to a rod-shaped body that does not have a hollow space, as in a "tube," and is similar to a "tube" in that it does not have a hollow space (pipe). In the present invention, a "tube" has a tube diameter (outer diameter) sufficient to pass through the hollow interior of a "cannula," and a "cylinder" has a cylindrical diameter sufficient to pass through the hollow interior of a "cannula." A "transnasal endoscope" basically comprises an operating body; a processing device; an insertion tube equipped with a sensor tube, a processing tube, a suction tube and a discharge tube; and a camera and a sensor connected to the tip of the insertion tube. When in use, it is inserted through the external nostril and then into the nasal cavity, esophagus, bronchi, stomach, duodenum, small intestine, etc. "Animals" include fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals, especially mammals (particularly primates (humans)).

[0016] [Nasal endoscope guidance device 1] The nasal endoscope guide tool 1 according to the present invention comprises a flexible cannula (1) and a flexible tube or cylinder (10) (FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0017] (flexible cannula) The main purpose of the flexible cannula (1) is to pass a flexible tube or cylinder (10) through its hollow space, and the flexible cannula (1) can also be used as a pre-treatment tool.

[0018] (length) The flexible cannula (1) is inserted from the external nostril (31) to the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance. Therefore, the flexible cannula (1) has a length from the external nostril (31) to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance.

[0019] Although it depends on the animal to be treated, for primates (especially humans), the length of the flexible cannula (1) is about 5 cm or more and 30 cm or less, preferably, the lower limit is about 10 cm or more and the upper limit is about 25 cm or less, and more preferably, the lower limit is about 15 cm or more and the upper limit is about 20 cm or less.

[0020] By having the length of the flexible cannula (1) within the above numerical range, it is possible to fully insert and leave the flexible tube or cylinder (10) at any position from the external nasal passage (31) to the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the entrance to the esophagus, or the entrance to the trachea.

[0021] (Through hole) 1 and 2, the insertion tip of the flexible cannula (1) is cylindrical and has an insertion hole (3) cut obliquely from the apex of the cylinder to the side. Since the insertion hole (3) retains the cylindrical shape of the tip, when the flexible cannula (1) is inserted from the external nostril (31), it is possible to significantly prevent damage to the inside of the nasal cavity. In addition, the flexible tube or cylindrical body (10) can be easily moved in and out (inserted or removed) from the hollow of the flexible cannula via the insertion hole (3). As a result, the presence of the insertion hole (3) makes it possible to easily insert the flexible tube or cylindrical body (10), making it easier to operate and handle.

[0022] The size of the insertion hole (3), in terms of length x width, is approximately 0.1 cm to 0.7 cm, preferably approximately 0.4 cm to 0.5 cm, and more preferably approximately 0.7 cm to 0.3 cm. By having the size of the insertion hole (3) within the above numerical range, the flexible tube or cylinder (10) can be easily inserted and removed from the hollow interior of the flexible cannula (1). As a result, the presence of the insertion hole (3) makes it possible to easily insert the flexible tube or cylinder (10), making it easier to operate and handle.

[0023] (insertion site) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the nostril side end of the flexible cannula (1) has an insertion site (7). The insertion site (7) is located near the nostril (31) and serves as an entrance into which the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted. The insertion site (7) also functions as a stopper for the flexible cannula (1) and prevents the flexible cannula (1) from entering the nasal cavity more than necessary. The insertion site (7) may also function as a connection site into which the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted and connected.

[0024] Since the insertion site (7) serves not only as an insertion entrance but also as a stopper and a connection site, it may be less flexible and harder than the flexible cannula (1). The inner tube of the insertion site (7) has a hollow structure and a similar shape to the flexible cannula (1), and the outer tube of the insertion site (7) may have an outer diameter equal to or greater than that of the flexible cannula (1). Preferably, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the inner diameters of the connection parts of the insertion site (7) and the flexible cannula (1) are the same.

[0025] The insertion site (7) may be formed directly on the flexible cannula (1), or, in consideration of ensuring rigidity and ease of handling, the end of the insertion site (7) may be configured to cover the end of the flexible cannula (1) on the nostril side, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, and the other end of the insertion site (7) may be shaped like an open truncated cone (trumpet shape) facing outward. This makes it easier to insert the flexible tube or cylinder (10) and also makes it possible to connect the insertion site (7) to the attachment site (17) formed on the flexible tube or cylinder (10).

[0026] <Open hole> In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the flexible cannula (1) can have one or more apertures (5) on its side. Preferably, the one or more apertures (5) are provided from halfway of the flexible cannula (1) toward the tip (insertion direction). By providing one or more apertures (5), pretreatment (administration of a vasoconstrictor, sedative, analgesic, or anesthetic, etc.) can be ensured. The apertures (5) may have any shape, but are preferably polygonal, circular, or semicircular.

[0027] The size of the opening (5), in terms of length x width, is about 0.05 cm to 0.7 cm, preferably about 0.3 cm to 0.5 cm, and more preferably about 0.5 cm to 0.4 cm. By having the size of the opening (5) within the above numerical range, the pretreatment can be performed reliably.

[0028] <Outer diameter / inner diameter> Although it depends on the animal to be treated, for primates (especially humans), the outer diameter (diameter) of the flexible cannula (1) is about 0.5 cm to 1.5 cm, preferably with a lower limit of 0.75 cm or more and an upper limit of 1.2 cm or less, and more preferably with a lower limit of 1 cm or more and an upper limit of 1.05 cm or less. The inner diameter (diameter) of the flexible cannula (1) is about 0.3 cm to 1.2 cm, more preferably with a lower limit of 0.55 cm or more and an upper limit of 1.1 cm or less, and more preferably with a lower limit of 0.8 cm or more and an upper limit of 1.0 cm or less.

[0029] By having the outer diameter and inner diameter of the flexible cannula (1) within the above numerical range, the flexible cannula (1) can be easily inserted, and the flexible tube or cylindrical body (10) can be easily inserted and passed through the flexible cannula (1).

[0030] <Coefficient of friction> The coefficient of friction between the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the flexible cannula (1) (coefficient of friction μ=F / P: the frictional force F acting between the two surfaces is the normal force P acting at that time) is about 0.5 or less, and preferably about 0.3 or less.

[0031] Since the friction coefficient is within the above numerical range, even if the outer peripheral surface of the flexible cannula (1) comes into direct sliding contact with the inner wall of the nasal cavity, damage to the inner wall of the nasal cavity can be significantly suppressed, and since the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted into and passed through the inner peripheral surface of the flexible cannula (1), ease of insertion (slipperiness) can be exhibited, and the physical burden (pain, injury, etc.) on the animal being treated during insertion and attachment can be reduced, and the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, and anxiety) can be significantly suppressed.

[0032] (Ra: Arithmetic mean roughness) When the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the flexible cannula (1) are roughened (finely roughened), the index Ra (arithmetic mean roughness: JIS B0601-2001) as the roughness of the rough surface is about 6.3 to 25, preferably with a lower limit of 9 or more and an upper limit of about 20 or less. When the Ra value of the roughened surface applied to the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the flexible cannula (1) is within the above range, vasoconstrictors, sedatives, analgesics, anesthetics, etc. can be retained without leaking, making pretreatment easier.

[0033] <hardness> The hardness of the flexible cannula (1) is, in Shore A (JIS K 6253-3:2012: durometer type A), about 30 degrees or more and 80 degrees or less, and preferably the lower limit is about 40 degrees or more and the upper limit is about 70 degrees or less.

[0034] By setting the lower limit of the hardness to the above numerical value or more, the rigidity of the flexible cannula (1) when inserted can be ensured, and the insertion itself can be made easier, while by setting the upper limit of the hardness to the above numerical value or less, the flexibility of the flexible cannula (1) can be exhibited, and handling and operation can be made easier. In addition, by setting the hardness of the flexible cannula (1) within the above numerical value range, it is possible to reduce the physical burden (pain, injury, etc.) and significantly suppress the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, and anxiety) during insertion and wearing.

[0035] <Extension rate> The elongation rate of the flexible cannula (1) (JIS L 1096: Method A) is about 100% or more and 500% or less, and preferably the lower limit is about 120% or more and the upper limit is about 450% or less.

[0036] Since the elongation rate of the flexible cannula (1) is within the above-mentioned numerical range, the cannula (1) has a certain degree of elongation within the external nostril (31) or nasal cavity, allowing easy insertion, facilitating handling and operation, and reducing the physical burden (pain, injury, etc.) during insertion and attachment, and significantly suppressing the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, and anxiety).

[0037] <material> The cannula (1) is flexible, which allows for easy manipulation and insertion. The cannula (1) may be made of any material that is flexible, such as silicone resin, silicone rubber, silicone blade, styrene elastomer, polyurethane (Miractran, Pellethene, Tecoflex, Tecothene), polyester, polystyrene, polyolefin, (soft) polyvinyl chloride, and other elastomers, nylon, etc. The flexible cannula (1) may be made of a large tube that is flexible and pliable.

[0038] <Pretreatment> According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pretreatment can be performed. For example, pretreatment can be performed before or after the insertion of the flexible cannula (1). The pretreatment is performed by administering a vasoconstrictor (e.g., naphazoline nitrate, tramazoline hydrochloride, tetrahydrozoline-prednisolone hydrochloride) through the nostril (31) and also administering a sedative, analgesic, or anesthetic (mitazolam, diazepam, propofol, dexmedetomidine, xylocaine, etc.) through the nostril (31).

[0039] In one preferred embodiment of the pretreatment, a vasoconstrictor, an analgesic, etc. are applied to the outer peripheral surface and hollow inner peripheral surface of the flexible cannula (1) beforehand, and then the flexible cannula (1) is inserted through the external nostril (31). In another embodiment, the pretreatment can be performed by connecting a syringe (20) to the insertion site (7) of the flexible cannula (1).

[0040] By carrying out the pretreatment, it is possible to prevent bleeding in the nasal cavity and significantly reduce damage to the nasal cavity, widen the external nares (31), improve airflow in the nasal cavity, and facilitate the insertion of the flexible cannula (1) and the subsequent insertion of the flexible tube or cylinder (10). As a result, it is possible to reduce the mental burden on the surgeon and shorten the time required to insert the nasal endoscope, and it is also possible to achieve a high level of reduction in the physical burden (pain and injury) of the animal being treated and suppression of the mental burden (feeling of pressure, anxiety, etc.) of the animal being treated.

[0041] (Flexible tube or cylinder) In the present invention, the "flexible tube or cylinder (10)" is inserted from the insertion site (7) of the flexible cannula (1), passed through the insertion hole (3), and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the entrance to the esophagus, or the entrance to the trachea, and remains there, and is characterized in that it guides the insertion tube (41) of the transnasal endoscope when it is inserted. The flexible tube or cylinder (10) may be used as a tool for pre-processing.

[0042] <Installation location> According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the nostril side end of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) may have an attachment portion (17). The attachment portion (17) is located near the nostril (31). The attachment portion (17) also functions as a stopper for the flexible tube or cylinder (1) and prevents the flexible tube or cylinder (1) from entering the nasal cavity more than necessary. The attachment portion (17) of the flexible tube may also function as a connection portion into which a syringe (20) is inserted and connected.

[0043] The attachment portion (17) is used not only for attachment but also as a stopper and a connection portion, and therefore may have lower flexibility and harder hardness than the flexible tube or cylinder (10). The attachment portion (17) may have a shape similar to that of the flexible tube or cylinder (10). The inner tube of the attachment portion (17) of the flexible tube (10) may have a hollow structure and a shape similar to that of the flexible tube (10), and the outer tube of the attachment portion (17) may have an outer diameter equal to or greater than that of the flexible tube (10). Preferably, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the inner diameters of the connection portions of the attachment portion (17) and the flexible tube (10) are the same.

[0044] The attachment portion 17 may be formed directly on the flexible tube or cylinder 1, and in consideration of ensuring rigidity and ease of handling, the end of the insertion portion 17 may be configured to cover the end of the flexible tube or cylinder 10 on the nostril side, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, and the other end of the attachment portion 17 may be formed in an open truncated cone shape (trumpet shape) facing outward. This makes it easier to insert the flexible tube or cylinder 10, and also makes it possible to connect the attachment portion 17 on the flexible tube 10 to a syringe 20.

[0045] The mounting portion (17) of the flexible tube is, as described above, for example configured as shown in Fig. 1(A), and in the present invention, as shown in Fig. 1(B), it is preferable that it has a bifurcated or propeller shape (preferably a two-blade single-shaft propeller shape). The bifurcated or propeller shape allows the mounting portion (17) to function as a mounting portion (17) and is easy to handle, particularly in pre-treatment.

[0046] <length> The flexible tube or cylindrical body (10) is inserted from the insertion portion (7) of the flexible cannula (1), through the insertion hole (3), and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance. Therefore, the flexible tube or cylindrical body (10) has at least a length from the external nares (31) to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance. It is preferable that the flexible tube or cylindrical body (10) has an additional length from the viewpoint of ease of handling and operation.

[0047] Depending on the target animal, for primates (especially humans), the length of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is 5 cm or more and 30 cm or less, preferably with a lower limit of 10 cm or more and an upper limit of 25 cm or less, and more preferably with a lower limit of 15 cm or more and an upper limit of 20 cm or less. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the length of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is the above-mentioned predetermined length plus a further length of 30 cm or more and 2 m or less, preferably with a lower limit of 50 cm or more and an upper limit of 1.5 m or less.

[0048] By having the length of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) within the above numerical range, it is possible to fully insert and leave the flexible tube or cylinder (10) at any position from the external nostril (31) to the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance.

[0049] <Outer diameter / inner diameter> Although it depends on the target animal, in the case of primates (including humans), the outer diameter (diameter) of the flexible tube (10) is 0.2 cm or more and 1.1 cm or less, more preferably, the lower limit is 0.5 cm or more and the upper limit is about 1.0 cm or less, more preferably, the lower limit is 0.7 cm or more and the upper limit is about 0.9 cm or less. The inner diameter (diameter) of the flexible tube (10) is 0.1 cm or more and 1.0 cm or less, more preferably, the lower limit is 0.4 cm or more and the upper limit is about 0.9 cm or less, more preferably, the lower limit is 0.6 cm or more and the upper limit is about 0.8 cm or less. The diameter of the flexible cylinder (10) may be the same as the outer diameter (diameter) of the flexible tube (10).

[0050] Since the outer and inner diameters of the flexible tube (10) or the diameter of the flexible cylinder (10) are within the above-mentioned numerical ranges, the flexible tube (10) can be easily inserted into the hollow of the flexible cannula, easily passed through the insertion hole, and easily inserted into the desired location, making it easier to operate and handle, and reducing the physical burden (pain, injury, etc.) during insertion and attachment and significantly suppressing the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, and anxiety).

[0051] <Coefficient of friction> The coefficient of friction (μ=F / P: frictional force F acting between two surfaces and normal force P acting at that time) of the inner and outer surfaces of the flexible tube (10) or the outer surface of the flexible cylindrical body (10) is 0.5 or less, preferably about 0.3 or less.

[0052] Since the coefficient of friction is within the above numerical range, the flexible tube or cylinder (10) can be easily inserted into the hollow of the flexible cannula (1), easily passed through the insertion hole (3), and easily inserted into the desired location, and the operability and handling are made easier. Furthermore, although the flexible tube or cylinder (10) comes into direct sliding contact with the inner wall of the nasal cavity after being inserted through the flexible cannula (1), damage to the inner wall of the nasal cavity can be significantly suppressed, the ease of insertion (slipperiness) can be exhibited, and the physical burden (pain, damage, etc.) during insertion and wearing can be reduced, and the mental burden (sense of pressure, disgust, and anxiety) can be significantly suppressed.

[0053] (Ra: Arithmetic mean roughness) When the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the flexible tube (10) or the outer circumferential surface of the flexible cylinder (10) are roughened (finely roughened), the index Ra (arithmetic mean roughness: JIS B0601-2001) as the roughness of the surface is about 6.3 or more and 25 or less, and preferably the lower limit is about 9 or more and the upper limit is about 20 or less. When the Ra value of the roughened surface applied to the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the flexible tube (10) or the outer circumferential surface of the flexible cylinder (10) is within the above range, a contractile agent, sedative, analgesic, anesthetic, etc. can be retained without leaking, making pretreatment easier.

[0054] <hardness> The hardness of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is about 20 degrees or more and 70 degrees or less in Shore A (JIS K 6253-3:2012: durometer type A), and preferably the lower limit is about 30 degrees or more and the upper limit is about 60 degrees or less.

[0055] By setting the lower limit of the hardness to the above numerical value or more, the rigidity of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) when it is inserted into the nasal cavity is ensured, and the insertion itself can be made easier, while by setting the upper limit of the hardness to the above numerical value or less, the flexibility of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) can be exhibited, and handling and operation can be made easier. In addition, by setting the hardness of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) within the above numerical value range, it is possible to reduce the physical burden (pain, damage, etc.) during insertion and wearing and to significantly suppress the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, and anxiety)

[0056] <Extension rate> The elongation percentage (JIS L 1096: Method A) of the flexible tube or cylinder (1) is about 100% or more and 500% or less, and preferably the lower limit is about 120% or more and the upper limit is about 450% or less.

[0057] Since the elongation rate of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is within the above numerical range, it has a certain degree of elongation within the external nostril (31) or nasal cavity, allowing easy insertion, facilitating handling and operation, and reducing the physical burden (pain, injury, etc.) during insertion and wearing and significantly suppressing the mental burden (feeling of pressure, disgust, and anxiety).

[0058] <material> The tube or cylinder (10) is flexible, which allows for easy handling and insertion. The tube or cylinder (10) may be made of any material that is flexible, and examples of materials for the tube or cylinder (10) include silicone resin, silicone rubber, silicone braid, styrene-based elastomers, polyurethane (Miractran, Pellethene, Tecoflex, Tecothene), polyester, polystyrene, polyolefin, (soft) polyvinyl chloride, and other elastomers, nylon, and the like.

[0059] (Removal of flexible cannula) In the present invention, after inserting the flexible tube or cylinder 10, the flexible cannula 1 is removed from the nostril 31. By removing the flexible cannula 1, the flexible tube or cylinder 10 can easily guide the insertion tube 41 of the transnasal endoscope.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the flexible cannula may be removed from the nostril 31 and retained in the flexible tube or barrel 10. By being removed from the nostril 31 and retained in the flexible tube or barrel 10, it is possible to reduce the time required to guide and insert the insertion tube 41 of the transnasal endoscope.

[0061] (Guidance of transnasal endoscope) The flexible tube or cylinder (10) guides the insertion tube (41) of a nasal endoscope. In the present invention, the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope can be inserted by following the flexible tube or cylinder (10) left in the selected intranasal passage, so that the nasal endoscope can be easily guided and inserted into the appropriately prepared selected intranasal passage regardless of the experience and skill of the practitioner (veterinarian, doctor, etc.). As a result, it is possible to achieve a high level of reduction in the mental burden of the practitioner, a reduction in the time required to insert the nasal endoscope, a reduction in the physical burden (pain and injury) of the animal to be treated, and suppression of the mental burden (feeling of pressure, anxiety, etc.) of the animal to be treated.

[0062] [Nasal endoscope guidance device 2] In the present invention, a nasal endoscope guide tool 2 can be proposed as another embodiment. The nasal endoscope guiding tool 2 according to the present invention is obtained by adopting (substituting) the following invention-specific features in the nasal endoscope guiding tool 1 according to the present invention. "The flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle nasal meatus position, the inferior nasal meatus position, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance, The flexible cannula is guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder and inserted to the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance.

[0063] That is, the nasal endoscope guide tool 1 is configured such that first, the flexible cannula (1) is inserted into the nasal cavity, then the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted, and then the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope is guided. In contrast, the nasal endoscope guide tool 2 is configured such that first, the flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted, then the flexible cannula (1) is appropriately guided and inserted into the nasal cavity, and then the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope is guided. Therefore, the contents of the nasal endoscope guidance tool 2 are the same as the matters described in the [nasal endoscope guidance tool 1], except for adopting (substituting) the above-mentioned invention-specific matters.

[0064] (Flexible tube or cylinder) In the present invention, the "flexible tube or cylinder (10)" is inserted from the external nostril (31) and is inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the entrance to the esophagus, or the entrance to the trachea, and remains there, and guides the insertion tube (41) of the transnasal endoscope when it is inserted. The flexible tube or cylinder (10) may be used as a tool for pre-processing. The details of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) are the same as those described in the "Transnasal endoscope guide tool 1".

[0065] (flexible cannula) In the present invention, the "flexible cannula (1)" is guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder to any of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the entrance to the esophagus, or the entrance to the trachea. The details of the flexible cannula (1) are the same as those described in the "nasal endoscope guidance tool 1".

[0066] (Flexible Cannula Guidance) "The flexible cannula is guided along the inserted flexible tube or cylinder" may mean, for example, that the flexible cannula (1) is guided along the previously inserted flexible tube or cylinder (10) and inserted; or, the flexible cannula (1) may be inserted and guided through the insertion hole (3) of the flexible cannula (1) into the nostril side end (not having an attachment portion (17)) of the previously inserted flexible tube or cylinder (10).

[0067] <Pretreatment> According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pretreatment can be performed. For example, pretreatment can be performed before or after the insertion of the flexible tube or cylinder (10). The pretreatment is performed by administering a vasoconstrictor (e.g., naphazoline nitrate, tramazoline hydrochloride, tetrahydrozoline-prednisolone hydrochloride) through the external nostril (31) and also administering a sedative, analgesic, or anesthetic (mitazolam, diazepam, propofol, dexmedetomidine, xylocaine, etc.) through the external nostril (31).

[0068] As a preferred embodiment of the pretreatment, the pretreatment can be performed before inserting the flexible tube or cylinder (10). As a preferred embodiment, the pretreatment can be performed by applying a vasoconstrictor, sedative, analgesic, anesthetic, etc. to the outer peripheral surface and the hollow inner peripheral surface of the flexible tube (10) or by applying a vasoconstrictor, sedative, analgesic, anesthetic, etc. to the outer peripheral surface of the flexible cylinder (10) before inserting the flexible tube or cylinder (10) from the external nostril (31). As another embodiment, the pretreatment can be performed after inserting the flexible tube (10). For example, the pretreatment can be performed by connecting a syringe (20) to the attachment portion (17) of the flexible tube (10).

[0069] By carrying out the pretreatment, it is possible to prevent bleeding in the nostrils, reduce pain caused by abrasions to the inner wall of the nasal cavity, widen the external nostrils (31), improve airflow in the nasal cavity, and facilitate the insertion of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) and the subsequent insertion of a flexible cannula. As a result, it is possible to achieve a high level of reduction in the mental burden of the practitioner, a reduction in the time required for inserting the nasal endoscope, a reduction in the physical burden (pain and injury) of the animal being treated, and suppression of the mental burden (feeling of pressure, anxiety, etc.).

[0070] [Nasal endoscope guidance kits 1 and 2] The nasal endoscope guide kits 1 and 2 include a flexible cannula (1), a flexible tube or cylindrical body (10), and, if necessary, a syringe (not shown), as shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the flexible cannula, the flexible tube or cylindrical body, and, if necessary, a syringe (not shown), may each be housed in a separate container. As shown in FIG. 2, the nasal endoscope guidance kit may be a container containing a flexible cannula (1), a flexible tube or cylinder (10), and, if necessary, a syringe (20) connected together to form an integrated unit.

[0071] The contents of the flexible cannula (1), the flexible tube or cylinder (10), and the syringe (20) are the same as those described in [Transnasal endoscope guidance tool 1] and [Transnasal endoscope guidance tool 2].

[0072] [Nasal endoscope guidance system 1] In the present invention, a nasal endoscope guidance system 1 can be proposed. The nasal endoscope guidance system 1 according to the present invention is a system in which a flexible cannula (1) is first inserted into the nasal cavity (FIG. 3), and then a flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted through the hollow tube of the flexible cannula (1) to guide the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope (FIG. 4).

[0073] The details of the transnasal endoscope guidance system 1 can be explained with reference to FIG. The transnasal endoscope guidance system 1 begins with preparing a flexible cannula (1) and a flexible tube or cylindrical body (10).

[0074] (Insertion of a flexible cannula) As shown in Fig. 4(I), a flexible cannula (1) is inserted from the external nostril (31) to the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal inlet, or the tracheal inlet. The details of the flexible cannula (1) are the same as those described in the "nasal endoscope guidance device 1".

[0075] <Pretreatment> According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pre-treatment can be carried out before or after the insertion of the flexible cannula (1), in the same manner as described in the section on the nasal endoscope guidance tool 1.

[0076] (Insertion of flexible tube or cylinder) As shown in Fig. 4 (II), a flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted from the insertion portion (7) of the flexible cannula through the insertion hole (3) and into the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance. The specific details of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) are the same as those explained in [Nasal endoscope guidance device 1].

[0077] (Removal of flexible cannula) As shown in Fig. 4 (III), after inserting the flexible tube or cylinder (10), the flexible cannula (1) is removed from the external nostril (31). By removing the flexible cannula (1), the flexible tube or cylinder (10) can easily guide the insertion tube (41) of the transnasal endoscope. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cannula may be removed from the external nostril (31) and left held by the flexible tube or cylinder (10). By being left held by the flexible tube or cylinder (10), it is possible to shorten the time required to guide and insert the insertion tube (41) of the transnasal endoscope.

[0078] (Guidance of transnasal endoscope) As shown in FIG. 4(IV), the flexible tube or cylinder (10) guides the insertion tube (41) of a transnasal endoscope. Since the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope can be inserted by following the flexible tube or cylinder (10) left in the selected intranasal passage, the nasal endoscope can be easily guided and inserted into the appropriately prepared selected intranasal passage regardless of the experience and skill level of the practitioner (veterinarian, doctor, etc.). As a result, it is possible to achieve a high level of reduction in the mental burden of the practitioner, a reduction in the time required to insert the nasal endoscope, a reduction in the physical burden (pain and injury) of the animal to be treated, and suppression of the mental burden (feeling of pressure, anxiety, etc.) of the animal to be treated.

[0079] [Nasal endoscope guidance system 2] In the present invention, a nasal endoscope guidance system 2 can be proposed. The nasal endoscope guidance system 2 according to the present invention is a system in which a flexible tube or cylinder (10) is first inserted into the nasal cavity (FIG. 5), and then a flexible cannula (1) is inserted and the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope is guided (FIG. 6).

[0080] The details of the transnasal endoscope guidance system 2 can be explained with reference to FIG. First, the nasal endoscope guidance system 2 prepares a flexible cannula 1 and a flexible tube or cylinder 10. The flexible cannula 1 and the flexible tube or cylinder 10 are the same as those described in the nasal endoscope guidance tool 1 and the nasal endoscope guidance tool 2.

[0081] (Insertion of flexible tube or cylinder) As shown in Fig. 6(I), a flexible tube or cylinder (10) is inserted from the external nostril (31) to the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance. The flexible cannula (1) can be easily inserted by being guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder (10). The specific details of the flexible tube or cylinder (10) are the same as those explained in [Transnasal Endoscope Guiding Tool 1] and [Transnasal Endoscope Guiding Tool 2].

[0082] <Pretreatment> According to this aspect of the present invention, a pre-treatment can be performed before inserting the flexible tube or cylinder (10), similar to the procedure described in the "nasal endoscope guide 2."

[0083] (Insertion of a flexible cannula) As shown in FIG. 6(II), a flexible cannula (1) is guided by a flexible tube or cylinder (10) inserted through an insertion hole (3) and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance.

[0084] <Pretreatment> According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pre-treatment can be carried out before or after the insertion of the flexible cannula (1), in the same manner as described in the section on the nasal endoscope guidance tool 1.

[0085] (Removal of flexible cannula) As shown in Fig. 6 (III), after inserting the flexible tube or cylinder (10), the flexible cannula (1) is removed from the external nostril (31). By removing the flexible cannula (1), the flexible tube or cylinder (10) can easily guide the insertion tube (41) of the transnasal endoscope. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cannula (1) may be removed from the external nostril (31) but left held by the flexible tube or cylinder (10). By leaving the flexible tube or cylinder (10) held by the flexible tube or cylinder (10), it is possible to shorten the time required to guide and insert the insertion tube (41) of the transnasal endoscope.

[0086] (Guidance of transnasal endoscope) As shown in FIG. 6(IV), the flexible tube or cylinder (10) guides the insertion tube (41) of a transnasal endoscope. Since the insertion tube (41) of the nasal endoscope can be inserted by following the flexible tube or cylinder (10) left in the selected intranasal passage, the nasal endoscope can be easily guided and inserted into the appropriately prepared selected intranasal passage regardless of the experience and skill level of the practitioner (veterinarian, doctor, etc.). As a result, it is possible to achieve a high level of reduction in the mental burden of the practitioner, a reduction in the time required to insert the nasal endoscope, a reduction in the physical burden (pain and injury) of the animal to be treated, and suppression of the mental burden (feeling of pressure, anxiety, etc.) of the animal to be treated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1 Flexible cannula 3 Insertion hole 5 hole 7 Insertion site 10 Flexible tube or cylinder 17 Mounting location 20 Syringe 30 head 31 External nostril 32 Middle meatus 34 Nasal cavity 36 Nasopharynx 41 Nasal endoscope insertion tube

Claims

1. A nasal endoscope guidance device, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; the flexible cannula is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle meatus position, the inferior meatus position, the esophageal entrance, and the tracheal entrance; the flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the insertion site of the flexible cannula, through the insertion hole, and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; After inserting the flexible tube or barrel, the flexible cannula is removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope.

2. A nasal endoscope guidance device, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle nasal meatus position, the inferior nasal meatus position, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the flexible cannula is guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the inserted flexible cannula is then removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope.

3. 3. The nasal endoscope guide of claim 1, wherein the flexible cannula is removed from the nostril and remains retained in the flexible tube or cylinder.

4. A nasal endoscope guidance kit, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula having an insertion site; the flexible cannula is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle meatus position, the inferior meatus position, the esophageal entrance, and the tracheal entrance; the flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the insertion site of the flexible cannula, through the insertion hole, and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; After inserting the flexible tube or barrel, the flexible cannula is removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope, in this nasal endoscope guidance kit.

5. A nasal endoscope guidance kit, comprising: A flexible cannula and a flexible tube or cylinder, The flexible cannula comprises: The length is from the external nares to any one of the middle meatus, the inferior meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; The insertion end of the flexible cannula has a cylindrical shape and is provided with an insertion hole cut obliquely from the apex of the cylindrical shape to the side surface, a nostril end of the flexible cannula comprising an insertion site; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is inserted from the external nasal passage to any one of the middle nasal meatus position, the inferior nasal meatus position, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the flexible cannula is guided by the inserted flexible tube or cylinder and inserted to any one of the middle nasal meatus, the inferior nasal meatus, the esophageal entrance, or the tracheal entrance; the inserted flexible cannula is then removed from the nostril; The flexible tube or cylindrical body is used to guide an insertion tube of a nasal endoscope, in this nasal endoscope guidance kit.

6. 6. The nasal endoscope guide kit according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the flexible cannula is removed from the nostril and remains retained in the flexible tube or cylinder.

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