Embryo Transfer Device

Abstract

Provided is an embryo transplantation device provided with a proximal end part that forms a proximal end side, an embryo storage part, and at least two deployment frame parts, the embryo transplantation device being configured such that the at least two deployment frame parts come close to each other due to elastic deformation when the deployment frame parts are disposed in a tube and the at least two deployment frame parts are deployed in a direction orthogonal to an X-axis that passes through the proximal end part when the deployment frame parts are removed from the tube and are placed in a uterine cavity.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to embryo transfer devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, contraceptive devices have been known as devices to be placed in the uterine cavity. See, for example, Patent Document 1. Also, as a device to be placed in the uterine cavity, an embryo transfer device using magnetic force has been known. See, for example, Patent Document 2. It is also known to transfer an embryo into the uterus using a linear instrument. See, for example, Patent Document 3. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2014-523780 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2018 / 135496 [Patent Document 3] Special Publication No. 2009-508642 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Various conditions contribute to improving the implantation rate, such as the force applied to the uterus by the device, damage to the cervix and uterine cavity during device insertion / removal, and the state of the embryo placement for transfer. A practical and effective device that can increase the implantation rate is desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The first aspect is an embryo transfer device having a proximal end and a distal end, which is inserted into the uterine cavity from the distal end side using a tube inserted into the cervix. The device comprises a proximal end forming the proximal end side, an embryo storage section provided on the distal end side and capable of storing embryos, and two or more expansion frame sections connecting the proximal end and the embryo storage section. When placed within the tube, the two or more expansion frame sections are configured to be close to each other due to elastic deformation, and when removed from the tube and placed in the uterine cavity, they are configured to expand in a direction along a Y axis perpendicular to an X axis passing through the proximal end and the embryo storage section due to the restoring force of the elastic deformation.

[0006] A second aspect of the present invention is an embryo transfer device having a proximal end and a distal end, which is inserted into the uterine cavity from the distal end using a tube inserted into the cervix, the device comprising an embryo storage section capable of storing an embryo, and two or more expansion frame sections, wherein the two or more expansion frame sections are brought close to each other due to elastic deformation when placed within the tube, and when removed from the tube and placed in the uterine cavity, the restoring force of the elastic deformation causes them to expand in a direction along a Y-axis perpendicular to an X-axis passing through the proximal end and the distal end, and the embryo storage section is open in a direction along a Z-axis perpendicular to the X-axis and Y-axis. A third aspect of the present invention is an embryo transfer device that is inserted into the uterine cavity using a tube that is inserted into the cervix, comprising: an embryo storage section that can store an embryo; and a frame section that has a proximal end and a distal end and is connected to the embryo storage section. The deployment section or the frame section, one end of which is fixed to the frame section, is in a stored state that conforms to the internal shape of the tube when placed within the tube, and when removed from the tube and placed within the uterine cavity, it deploys primarily in a direction along the Y-axis, which is a direction perpendicular to the X-axis that passes through the proximal end and the distal end, and the embryo storage section is open in a direction along the Z-axis that is perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the embryo transfer device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the embryo transfer device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a side view of the embryo transfer device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment in use. [Figure 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 taken along line V-V. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an X-axis cross-sectional view of the embryo storage section of the embryo transfer device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment in use. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment in use. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a first modified embodiment of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a second modified embodiment of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a third modified embodiment of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a fourth modified embodiment of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a fifth modified embodiment of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a sixth modified embodiment of the embryo transfer device of the first embodiment and an example of the outer periphery length. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the outer perimeter of the embryo transfer device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the outer perimeter of the embryo transfer device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the embryo transfer device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a side view showing a first alternative example of an embryo transfer device. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a first alternative example of an embryo transfer device. [Figure 20]FIG. 10 is a side view showing a second alternative example of an embryo transfer device. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a second alternative example of an embryo transfer device in a stored state. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a second alternative example of an embryo transfer device. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a first alternative example of an embryo transfer device in use. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The embryo transfer device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embryo transfer device 1 is inserted into the uterine cavity 210 using a tube P inserted into the cervix (see, e.g., FIG. 4). In this embodiment, the embryo transfer device 1 is left in the uterine cavity 210 for 48 hours or more. The device may be left in place for other lengths of time, such as several hours or more, 12 hours or more, 24 hours or more, or 72 hours or more.

[0009] The embryo transfer device 1 is used to implant an embryo by placing the embryo in the uterine cavity 210. The embryo in this embodiment also includes a fertilized egg, a fertilized oocyte, and a blastocyst. The embryo transfer device 1 of this embodiment is intended to increase the probability of embryo implantation by maintaining a state in which the embryo can or is in contact with the endometrium of the uterus, such as the uterine cavity 210. For implantation to occur, the embryo must be in contact with the endometrium, or the embryo must have burrowed into the endometrium, and in one example, the embryo transfer device 1 helps the embryo to be attached to the endometrium.

[0010] The embryo transfer device 1 is preferably configured to exert as little unnecessary force or impact on the uterus as possible. For example, reducing the force applied to the endometrium by the embryo transfer device 1 placed in the uterine cavity 210 is expected to contribute to successful implantation. Minimizing damage to the cervix 220, uterine cavity 210, the patient's body, and the patient's mind during insertion and removal of the embryo transfer device 1 is also important. Meanwhile, despite movements of internal organs such as the uterus and the body containing the uterus, the embryo transfer device 1 must be securely placed in the uterine cavity 210, and the embryo must be able to or maintain contact with the endometrium for implantation. Improving one of these conditions tends to degrade other conditions. For example, while contraceptive devices are designed to be securely placed in the uterine cavity 210, adopting such a configuration can result in relatively large forces being applied at various locations within the uterine cavity 210, and similar forces being likely to be applied near the endometrium with which the embryo should come into contact, which can potentially reduce the success rate of implantation.

[0011] The configuration of the embryo transfer device 1 of this embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 will be described below. The embryo transfer device 1 has a proximal end 1A and a distal end 1B. It is inserted into the uterine cavity 210 from the distal end 1B using a tube P inserted through the cervical opening. In this embodiment, the proximal end 1A and the distal end 1B are the proximal and distal ends of the embryo transfer device 1 when it is placed in the tube P as shown in FIG. 4 . The embryo transfer device 1 has a proximal end 10 that forms at least a part of the proximal end 1A, and an embryo storage section 20 that is provided on the distal end 1B side and stores an embryo. In the description of this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the X-axis passes through the proximal end 10 and the embryo storage section 20, the Y-axis perpendicular to the X-axis extends in the direction in which the deployment frame section 30 (described below) unfolds, and the Z-axis is perpendicular to the X-axis and Y-axis. Note that in this embodiment, the distal end 1B is the end of the embryo storage section 20, but the distal end 1B may be another part of the embryo transfer device 1.

[0012] The embryo transfer device 1 of this embodiment has two expansion frame parts 30 connecting the proximal end part 10 and the embryo storage part 20. One end of each expansion frame part 30 is connected to the proximal end part 10, and the other end is connected to the embryo storage part 20. Each expansion frame part 30 is made of a material having rubber-like elasticity. Examples of materials having rubber-like elasticity include rubber materials such as silicone rubber, other elastic materials, etc.

[0013] Other types of rubber materials may also be used. The rubber hardness of the rubber material of this embodiment, when measured with a Type A durometer at 23±2°C, is in the range of 90 points or less, but is not limited thereto. For example, the rubber hardness of the rubber material of this embodiment, when measured with an Asker Type A durometer manufactured by Kobunshi Keiki Co., Ltd. at 23±2°C, is in the range of 10 to 90 points. This value of 10 to 90 points refers to the durometer hardness according to JIS K 6253. Because each of the expansion frame portions 30 and the like of this embodiment is thin, an approximate value of the Type A durometer (Asker Type A durometer) may be measured using a durometer manufactured by Techlock Co., Ltd. under the product name GS-680sel, and the rubber hardness of each expansion frame portion 30 may be determined using this approximate value. A micro rubber hardness tester manufactured by Kobunshi Keiki Co., Ltd. under the product name MD-1capa may be used instead of the GS-680sel.

[0014] In this embodiment, the Young's modulus of the muscle layer beneath the endometrium during contraction is assumed to be around 10 MPa, and the rubber hardness is set as above so that the Young's modulus of the material of each unfolding frame part 30 is equal to or lower than that. This setting may have the effect of preventing each unfolding frame part 30 from being recognized as a foreign body within the uterine cavity 210. It is possible that the Young's modulus of blood vessels beneath the endometrium is lower than the above Young's modulus. Taking into account the Young's modulus of blood vessels, etc., it may be better for the material of each unfolding frame part 30 to have a lower Young's modulus; in this case, the rubber hardness of the material of each unfolding frame part 30 is set to 60 points or less or 50 points or less.

[0015] In addition, if it is difficult to measure the rubber hardness of each unfolding frame portion 30 etc. using an Asker Type A rubber hardness tester, a sheet of the same material having a thickness of 6 mm to 10 mm can be molded using a mold, and the hardness of the sheet can be measured using an Asker Type A rubber hardness tester at 23±2°C, and the measurement result can be used as the rubber hardness of each unfolding frame portion 30.

[0016] Preferably, the proximal end portion 10 and the embryo storage portion 20 are also formed from a material with a Young's modulus (rubber hardness) in the same range. In this embodiment, the proximal end portion 10, the embryo storage portion 20, and the two expansion frame portions 30 are integrally formed using a mold, and are made of the same material. The structure of the embryo transfer device 1 is not limited to this example. In each embodiment, a material with rubber-like elasticity may be simply referred to as an elastic material.

[0017] When the two unfolding frame parts 30 are stored in the tube P for insertion into the uterine cavity 210, they are brought close to each other due to elastic deformation (FIG. 4). At this time, in this embodiment, parts of the two unfolding frame parts 30 are in contact with each other. When the two unfolding frame parts 30 are removed from the tube P, they unfold in the direction along the Y axis due to the restoring force of the elastic deformation (FIGS. 7 and 8). Hereinafter, the "direction along the X axis," "direction along the Y axis," and "direction along the Z axis" may be referred to as the "X direction," "Y direction," and "Z direction," respectively.

[0018] In this embodiment, when the two unfolding frame sections 30 are removed from the tube P, the restoring force of the elastic deformation causes at least the middle portions in the longitudinal direction to move away from each other and away from the X-axis, and the unfolding frame sections 30 are unfolded by this movement. Note that during this unfolding, the two unfolding frame sections 30 are also allowed to move in directions such as along the Z-axis. In other words, the movement of the two unfolding frame sections 30 in at least the Y-direction as described above is unfolding in the Y-direction. Note that it is preferable that the movement of the two unfolding frame sections 30 in the Y-direction during unfolding is greater than the movements in the X-direction and Z-direction; in this case, it can be said that the two unfolding frame sections 30 move mainly in the Y-direction during unfolding.

[0019] Here, a typical example of the tube P is a plastic tube. In order to reduce the damage to the uterus mentioned above during insertion / removal, the tube P preferably has an outer diameter of 2.5 mm or less, more preferably 2.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.5 mm or less. Therefore, the inner diameter of the tube P is 2.3 mm or less, 1.8 mm or less, 1.3 mm or less, etc. The tube P may be called a guide, sheath, etc., or may also be called a catheter, although tubes with other names may also be used.

[0020] To place the embryo transfer device 1 in the hollow portion of such a narrow tube P, the cross-sectional area of ​​each unfolding frame 30 is small. For example, if the inner diameter (diameter of the hollow portion) of the tube P is 1.8 mm, each of the two unfolding frame 30 will be placed in a narrow area that is half the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion of the tube P. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , the cross-sectional shape of each unfolding frame 30 can be an isosceles triangle, a shape close to an isosceles triangle, or the like. The cross-sectional shape of each unfolding frame 30 can also be a semicircle, or a shape intermediate or similar to these. This configuration can maximize the cross-sectional area of ​​each unfolding frame 30 in the narrow area. This contributes to the desired placement of the embryo storage unit 20, as described below.

[0021] The proximal end 10 may have a cross-sectional area equal to or smaller than the hollow portion of the tube P. In this embodiment, the proximal end 10 has a cylindrical or conical shape with a maximum diameter approximately 0.1 mm smaller than the inner diameter of the tube P. The proximal end 10 may have other shapes. In this embodiment, the end of a pulling thread 11 is fixed to the proximal end 10. In this embodiment, the proximal end 10 can also be said to be the portion pushed by the push rod 3 described below. In other embodiments, the proximal end 10 is the location where the thread 11 exits the embryo transfer device 1. In still other embodiments, the thread 11 may not exit from the proximal end 10, or the proximal end 10 may not be pushed by the push rod 3.

[0022] The embryo storage section 20 opens in the direction along the Z-axis. In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 1, 6, etc., the embryo storage section 20 has a recess 21 recessed in the direction along the Z-axis, and the opening 22 of the recess 21 opens in the direction along the Z-axis. The embryos are stored in the recess 21. In this embodiment, the opening direction of the opening 22 is completely aligned with the Z-axis. However, if the angle between the opening direction and the Z-axis is 60° or less, preferably 45° or less, and more preferably 30° or less, the effects described below can be achieved, and the opening 22 can be said to open in the direction along the Z-axis. In this embodiment, the opening direction is a direction perpendicular to an imaginary plane along the edge of the opening 22. Even if the angle between the opening direction and the Z-axis exceeds 60°, the effects described below may be expected depending on the shape of the uterus, etc. Because the embryo storage section 20 is open in the direction along the Z axis, when the embryo transfer device 1 is placed in the uterine cavity 210, the embryo in the embryo storage section 20 is maintained in a state where it can come into contact with or is in contact with the endometrium.

[0023] The shape of each unfolding frame part 30 will be described below in an unloaded state where no load is applied to each unfolding frame part 30. The unloaded state is, for example, a state where the embryo transfer device 1 is placed on a horizontal surface 100 as shown in Figure 3, with only gravity acting on the embryo transfer device 1. In Figure 3, one end side and the middle part of each unfolding frame part 30 are in contact with the horizontal surface 100.

[0024] In an unloaded state, each unfolding frame portion 30 has a first bent portion 31 that is bent in a direction away from the X-axis from the one end toward the other end, and a second bent portion 32 that is positioned closer to the other end than the first bent portion 31 and is bent in a direction approaching the X-axis from the one end toward the other end.

[0025] Moreover, in the unloaded state, each unfolding frame portion 30 has a third bent portion 33 that is arranged closer to the other end than the second bent portion 32 and bent from the other end toward the one end in a direction away from the X-axis. Moreover, in the unloaded state, each unfolding frame portion 30 has a fourth bent portion 34 that is arranged closer to the other end than the second bent portion 32 and closer to the one end than the third bent portion 33 and bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction approaching the X-axis.

[0026] In each embodiment, the portion between the first bend 31 and the second bend 32 is referred to as the first connection portion 41, the portion between the second bend 32 and the fourth bend 34 is referred to as the second connection portion 42, and the portion between the fourth bend 34 and the third bend 33 is referred to as the third connection portion 43.

[0027] 4 and 7, when the embryo transfer device 1 is placed in the tube P, the curvature (degree of bending) of each bent portion 31, 32, 33, 34 becomes gentler and may even become nearly straight. When the embryo transfer device 1 is placed in the tube P, the first bent portion 31, the second bent portion 32, the fourth bent portion 34, the third bent portion 33, and the embryo storage section 20 are arranged in this order from the proximal end 1A toward the distal end 1B. Note that the entire embryo transfer device 1 may be completely contained within the tube P, or a part of the embryo transfer device 1, such as the proximal end 10 or part of the embryo storage section 20, may be exposed from the tube P.

[0028] For example, when a user places the embryo transfer device 1 placed in the tube P into the uterine cavity 210, the user first inserts one end of the tube P from the external cervical os into the cervix 220 as shown in Figure 4. The user, for example, is a practitioner, and the embryo storage unit 20 is placed at the distal end of the tube P, and the proximal end portion 10 is placed at the proximal end of the tube P (Figure 4, etc.). Next, the user, for example, applies force toward the distal end of the push rod 3 inserted into the tube P from its proximal end, while moving the tube P in the direction of removing it from the cervix 220. In this embodiment, the push rod 3 has a thin pipe shape made of plastic, metal, etc., but the push rod 3 may be made of other materials and have other shapes.

[0029] 7, the embryo storage section 20 and the third bent section 33 emerge first from the tube P within the uterine cavity 210. Next, the fourth bent section 34, the second bent section 32, the first bent section 31, and the proximal end section 10 emerge from the tube P in this order, and the embryo transfer device 1 is positioned within the uterine cavity 210 (FIG. 8).

[0030] After the other end of the unfolded frame portion 30 emerges from the pipe P, the two unfolded frame portions 30 unfold in the Y direction before the one end emerges. When unfolded in this manner, the third connection portion 43 of each unfolded frame portion 30 is arranged to extend mainly in the Y direction when viewed from the direction along the Z axis. In one example, the extension direction 43a (FIG. 2) of the third connection portion 43 is the direction in which a straight line connecting both ends of the third connection portion 43 extends. When the angle between the extension direction 43a and the Y axis when viewed from the direction along the Z axis is less than 45°, it can be said that the third connection portion 43 extends mainly in the Y direction.

[0031] In FIG. 2, the third connecting portion 43 extends linearly when viewed along the Z-axis. However, the third connecting portion 43 may be curved when viewed along the Z-axis. Even in this case, the direction of the line connecting the two ends can be determined. Furthermore, when the third bending portion 33 and the fourth bending portion 34 are directly connected, the third bending portion 33 and the fourth bending portion 34 may be connected via a short third connecting portion 43. In these cases, a predetermined area of ​​each unfolding frame portion 30 including the connection between the third bending portion 33 and the fourth bending portion 34 functions as the third connecting portion 43. The predetermined area is, for example, a range extending obliquely from the other end toward the one end of each unfolding frame portion 30 toward the rear of the uterine cavity 210. This rear side is the side of the distal end 1B in the direction along the X-axis.

[0032] Although other portions of the embryo transfer device 1 also contact the uterus, in this embodiment, the widthwise outer portions 18 ( FIG. 2 ) of the two unfolded frame members 30 constituting both sides of the embryo transfer device 1 in the Y direction contact the inner walls of the uterine cavity 210. These inner walls are typically the two widthwise walls of the body in the uterine cavity 210, as shown in FIG. 8 . This width direction is sometimes referred to as the width direction of the uterine cavity 210. This contact provides resistance to movement of the widthwise outer portions 18 relative to the uterus. Note that the side of each unfolded frame member 30 closer to the one end than the widthwise outer portions 18 also provides resistance to movement. Note that in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2 , a portion of the second bent portion 32, a portion of the fourth bent portion 34, and the second connecting portion 42 constitute the widthwise outer portions 18, or a portion of the fourth bent portion 34 and the second connecting portion 42 constitute the widthwise outer portions 18. In either case, in this embodiment, the widthwise outer portions 18, which are the middle portions of each unfolded frame member 30, contact both widthwise walls of the uterine cavity 210.

[0033] In this way, the widthwise outer part 18 is positioned farther from the X-axis than the embryo storage part 20. This has the effect of making it difficult for the embryo storage part 20 to be positioned outside the width direction of the uterine cavity 210. Furthermore, this configuration has the effect of preventing or reducing the embryo from being positioned on the fallopian tube side.

[0034] Each unfolding frame part 30 unfolds in the Y direction, with one end connected to the proximal end part 10 and the other end connected to the embryo storage part 20. Therefore, although each unfolding frame part 30 is formed from a thin material with rubber-like elasticity as described above, the position of the embryo storage part 20 in the Y direction is more easily stabilized than when the embryo storage part 20 is supported by a thin rubber rod that extends from the proximal end part 10 along the X axis and can be inserted into the tube P. Furthermore, the embryo storage unit 20 is supported by a pair of widthwise outer portions 18 via a pair of third connecting portions 43, each of which extends mainly in the Y direction. This more reliably achieves the aforementioned effect of stabilizing the position of the embryo storage unit 20 in the Y direction.

[0035] In this embodiment, each of the unfolding frame parts 30 has one end connected to the proximal end part 10 and the other end connected to the embryo storage part 20, and is unfolded in the Y direction. With this configuration, the middle parts of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 are arranged on both sides in the width direction of the uterine cavity 210, the other end side of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 is arranged on the back side of the uterine cavity 210, and the one end side of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 is arranged on the side of the entrance (cervix) of the uterine cavity 210. In this embodiment, both sides in the width direction of the uterine cavity 210 may be referred to as both side walls.

[0036] In this way, the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 are arranged across both side walls, the back side, and the entrance side within the uterine cavity 210. In one example, the middle parts (widthwise outer parts 18) of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 are arranged along both side walls within the uterine cavity 210, and the one end side of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 is arranged between the middle parts. Furthermore, the other end side of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 is arranged deeper in the uterine cavity 210 than the one end side, and is arranged between the middle parts. In this embodiment, such an arrangement of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 may be referred to as an annular arrangement.

[0037] In this embodiment, more precisely, the pair of unfolding frame parts 30, the embryo storage part 20, and the proximal end part 10 are arranged over both side walls, the back side, and the entrance side of the uterine cavity 210, but the annular arrangement can be considered just within the range of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30. It is preferable that the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 occupy at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the circumferential length of the annulus in order to stabilize the position of the embryo storage part 20 within the uterine cavity 210 and reduce the force applied to the endometrium by the embryo transfer device 1.

[0038] As described above, each unfolding frame part 30 is thin and made of a rubber-like elastic material. The annular arrangement provides the effect of stabilizing the position of the embryo storage unit 20. In other words, when the embryo storage unit 20 moves in the Y direction, a force is applied to the entire unfolding frame part 30, for example, around the center of the ring. Resistance to movement occurs in each unfolding frame part 30 due to contact with the uterine cavity 210, etc. Therefore, the annular arrangement of each unfolding frame part 30, which is thin and made of rubber-like elasticity, provides the effect of stabilizing the position of the embryo storage unit 20. This effect of the annular arrangement can be obtained even when the angle between the extension direction 43a and the Y axis when viewed from the Z axis is 45° or more.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the extending direction 43a is inclined toward the back of the uterine cavity 210 from the other end toward the one end of each unfolding frame part 30, and the distal ends 1B of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 have a sloped shoulder shape. Alternatively, the extending direction 43a may be inclined from the other end toward the one end of each unfolding frame part 30 toward the entrance of the uterine cavity 210 (the side of the proximal end 1A in the direction along the X-axis), and the distal ends 1B of the pair of unfolding frame parts 30 may have a sloped shoulder shape. The effect of the annular arrangement can be obtained even when the unfolding frame parts 30 have a sloped shoulder shape.

[0040] The annular arrangement is also expected to have the effect of stabilizing the position of the embryo storage unit 20 in the X direction. In order to stabilize the position of the embryo storage unit 20 mainly in the X direction, it is also possible to set the angle between the extension direction 43a and the Y axis when viewed from the direction along the Z axis to 45° or more.

[0041] In order to stabilize the position of the embryo storage section 20 within the uterine cavity 210 while reducing the force applied to the endometrium by the embryo transfer device 1, it is preferable that the length of each unfolding frame section 30 be 25 mm or more, more preferably 30 mm or more, and even more preferably 40 mm or more. Furthermore, in order to stabilize the positions of the embryo transfer device 1 and the embryo storage unit 20 within the uterine cavity 210, the dimension of the embryo transfer device 1 in the Y direction in an unloaded state is preferably 15 mm or more, more preferably 20 mm or more, and even more preferably 30 mm or more. In this embodiment, both ends of the embryo transfer device 1 in the Y direction are the middle parts of the pair of unfolding frame units 30. Taking into consideration individual differences in the shape, size, condition, etc. of the uterine cavity 210, multiple types of embryo transfer devices 1 with different lengths of the unfolding frame portion 30 may be prepared.

[0042] In this embodiment, the recess 21 in which the embryo is stored in the embryo storage unit 20 is located closer to the distal end 1B than the other end of each unfolding frame unit 30. It is believed that the probability of implantation is higher at the back of the uterine cavity 210, and the above configuration has the effect of improving the probability of implantation in patients who meet these conditions.

[0043] In this embodiment, when viewed from the direction along the Z axis in the unloaded state, the angle α formed by the extending direction 43a and the X axis on the side of the distal end 1B (the back side of the uterine cavity 210) is less than 90° ( FIG. 2 ). That is, in the unloaded state, the other end side of each unfolded frame part 30 has a distally inclined part 15 that extends obliquely from the other end side toward the one end side toward the back side of the uterine cavity 210 (the side of the distal end 1B in the direction along the X axis). The one end side of the third bent part 33 can also function as the distally inclined part 15. Alternatively, in the unloaded state, each unfolded frame part 30 has a part (such as the third connecting part 43 and a part of the fourth bent part 34) that is located closer to the one end than the third bent part 33 and is located further back in the uterine cavity 210 than the terminal end of the one end side of the third bent part 33.

[0044] This configuration may contribute to preventing the embryo from being placed on the fallopian tube side. In addition, in this embodiment, when the pair of widthwise outer parts 18 move closer to each other compared to the unloaded state due to force from the uterus or the like, the embryo storage part 20 is more likely to be subjected to a force moving away from the uterine fundus 230 than a force moving toward the uterine fundus 230. This leads to the effect of minimizing unnecessary force being applied to the uterus.

[0045] In this embodiment, the other end side of the fourth bent portion 34 and the third connecting portion 43 form a Z-direction inclined portion 17 that is inclined in a direction along the Z axis in an unloaded state. The one end side of the third bent portion 33 can also function as a Z-direction inclined portion 17. In other words, the Z-direction inclined portion 17 exists in the range from the other end of each unfolding frame portion 30 to the second bent portion 32. It is sufficient that the Z-direction inclined portion 17 exists in at least a part of this range. It is noted that the "range from the other end to the second bent portion 32" is a range that includes the range in which the second bent portion 32 exists.

[0046] The inclination angle of the Z-direction inclined portion 17 relative to the horizontal plane 100 is preferably 2° or more, more preferably 3° or more, and even more preferably 4° or more. The inclination angle is preferably 80° or less, more preferably 60° or less, and even more preferably 45° or 30° or less. The Z-direction inclined portion 17 offsets the embryo storage portion 20 in the Z direction relative to the widthwise outer portion 18. The amount of this offset is indicated by distance D in Figure 3, and is preferably 1.5 mm or more, more preferably 2.5 mm or more, and even more preferably 3.5 mm or more.

[0047] This configuration has the effect of easily maintaining the opening 22 of the embryo storage compartment 20 in contact with or close proximity to the endometrium, even when internal organs such as the uterus move or when the body containing the uterus moves. Even when the offset is less than 1.5 mm or when the Z-direction inclined portion 17 is absent, a similar effect may be achieved under other conditions. In other words, an embryo transfer device 1 without the Z-direction inclined portion 17 can achieve the same effect as an embryo transfer device 1 with the Z-direction inclined portion 17, and therefore an embryo transfer device 1 without the Z-direction inclined portion 17 is also useful.

[0048] In the embryo transfer device 1 of this embodiment, the two unfolding frame sections 30 unfold and annularly arrange to position the embryo storage section 20 toward the center of the width of the uterine cavity 210. This configuration has the effect of making it difficult for the embryo storage section 20 to be positioned outside the width of the uterine cavity 210, thereby preventing or reducing the risk of embryos being positioned toward the fallopian tube.

[0049] It is also possible to employ an unfolding frame section 50 shown in Fig. 9 instead of the unfolding frame section 30. Like the unfolding frame section 30, each unfolding frame section 50 in the embodiment of Fig. 9 has a first bent section 31, a second bent section 32, a third bent section 33, a fourth bent section 34, a first connecting section 41, a second connecting section 42, and a third connecting section 43.

[0050] In each unfolded frame portion 50 of the embodiment of Figure 9, a portion of the second bent portion 32, a portion of the fourth bent portion 34, and the second connecting portion 42 form the widthwise outer portion 18, or a portion of the fourth bent portion 34 and the second connecting portion 42 form the widthwise outer portion 18.

[0051] In each unfolded frame portion 50 of the embodiment of Figure 9, the first connecting portion 41, which is the portion extending from the end of the first bending portion 31 on the side of the other end, or a portion of the first connecting portion 41 and the second bending portion 32, forms a proximal inclined portion 16 that extends obliquely from the one end toward the other end toward the entrance side of the uterine cavity 210 (the side of the proximal end 1A in the direction along the X-axis). Therefore, the embodiment of Figure 9 has the advantage of reducing the possibility of the embryo transfer device 1 being unintentionally expelled from the uterine cavity 210 even when there is movement of internal organs such as the uterus or movement of the body in which the uterus is located.

[0052] 10 can be used instead of the unfolding frame portion 30. In the unloaded state, each unfolding frame portion 60 has a first bent portion 61 that is curved from the one end toward the other end in a direction away from the X-axis, and a second bent portion 62 that is disposed closer to the other end than the first bent portion 61 and is bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction approaching the X-axis.

[0053] In addition, in an unloaded state, each unfolded frame portion 60 has a third bent portion 63 that is positioned closer to the other end than the second bent portion 62 and bent in a direction away from the X-axis from the other end toward the one end.

[0054] 10, the portion between the first bent portion 61 and the second bent portion 62 is referred to as a first connection portion 64. The portion between the second bent portion 62 and the third bent portion 63 is a second connection portion, but when the end of the second bent portion 62 on the other end side is directly connected to the third bent portion 63 as in the embodiment of FIG. 10, the second connection portion does not substantially exist.

[0055] 10, in the unloaded state, when viewed from the direction along the Z axis, the angle formed by the other end of second bent portion 62 and the X axis on the distal end 1B side is less than 90°. In other words, in the unloaded state, a part of second bent portion 62, which is the portion extending from the terminal end of one end of third bent portion 63, forms distally inclined portion 15' that extends obliquely toward the back of uterine cavity 210. The one end side of third bent portion 63 can also function as distally inclined portion 15'.

[0056] In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the other end side of the second bent portion 62 also forms a Z-direction inclined portion 17' that is inclined in a direction along the Z axis in an unloaded state. The one end side of the third bent portion 63 can also function as a Z-direction inclined portion 17'. In other words, the Z-direction inclined portion 17' exists in the range from the other end of each unfolding frame portion 60 to the second bent portion 62. Note that the "range from the other end to the second bent portion 62" is the range that includes the range in which the second bent portion 62 exists.

[0057] In the embodiment of Fig. 10, the curvature of the second bent portion 62 may change in the unloaded state. Of course, in each embodiment, the curvature of each bent portion may change. For example, the second bent portion 62 may have a tighter curvature on the one end side, a looser curvature in the middle portion, and a tighter curvature on the other end side. By making the curvature on the one end side tighter in this way, it is also possible to provide a proximal inclined portion 16 as in the embodiment of Fig. 9. In each of the expanded frame portions 60 of the embodiment of FIG. 10, the middle portion of the second bent portion 62 and the like also become the widthwise outer portion 18 .

[0058] The unfolded frame part 50 shown in Fig. 9 may have the shape shown in Fig. 11. Each unfolded frame part 50' in the embodiment of Fig. 11 has a second connecting part with a different shape from the example shown in Fig. 9, and the second connecting part 42' in the embodiment of Fig. 11 is serpentine when viewed in the direction along the Z axis.

[0059] Even in this case, the fourth bent portion 34 is positioned closer to the other end than the second bent portion 32 and closer to the one end than the third bent portion 33, and is bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction approaching the X-axis. Furthermore, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 3 and 9, the other end side of the fourth bent portion 34 of each unfolding frame portion 50', the third connecting portion 43, and the third bent portion 33 function as support portions, and the pair of support portions supports the embryo storage portion 20 relative to the pair of widthwise outer portions 18, and the embryo storage portion 20 is positioned inside the width direction of the uterine cavity 210 relative to the pair of widthwise outer portions 18. Therefore, the embryo transfer device 1 shown in Figure 11 can achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiments. In each embodiment, each bent portion and each connecting portion may be formed in a similar serpentine shape.

[0060] In each of the above embodiments, each support portion extends primarily in the Y direction. When viewed from the direction along the Z axis or projected in the direction along the Z axis, the area farther from the X axis than the two-dot chain line shown in FIG. 9 can be considered to be the widthwise outer portion 18. In the description of each embodiment, when viewed from the direction along the Z axis, it can also be considered when projected in the direction along the Z axis. The two two-dot chain lines extend in the direction along the X axis. In this embodiment, the distance WB between the two two-dot chain lines (distance in the Y direction) is 8 / 10 of the width dimension WA, which is the dimension of the embryo transfer device 1 in the Y direction. In other examples, WB may be 7 / 10 or more of WA, or WB may be 9 / 10 or more of WA.

[0061] In other words, the widthwise outer portions 18 of the pair of unfolding frame members 50 occupy an outer 3 / 10, 2 / 10, or 1 / 10 of the Y-direction dimension of the embryo transfer device 1, constituting both outer portions of the embryo transfer device 1 in the Y direction. The widthwise outer portions 18 are set similarly in each of the above-described embodiments. From another perspective, the widthwise outer portions 18 can also be considered as portions that support the outer Y-direction ends of each support member that extends mainly in the Y direction. Both outer portions of the embryo transfer device 1 in the Y direction can also be defined as widthwise outer portions 18, or the outer 2 / 10 of the Y-direction dimension of the embryo transfer device 1 can also be defined as widthwise outer portions 18.

[0062] In this embodiment, when viewed from the direction along the Z axis, if the angle between the Y axis and a line passing through one end of each support part on the widthwise outer side portion 18 side and the other end of each support part (the other end of the unfolding frame part 50) is less than 45°, each support part is considered to extend mainly in the Y direction. In other words, each support part extends more in the Y direction than in the X direction. Since each support part extends in the Y direction in this manner, and each unfolding frame part 50 is formed from a thin material with rubber-like elasticity as described above, the position of the embryo storage part 20 in the Y direction is more easily stabilized compared to when the embryo storage part 20 is supported by a thin rubber rod that extends from the proximal end part 10 along the X axis and can be inserted into the tube P.

[0063] The unfolded frame part 50 shown in Fig. 9 may have the shape shown in Fig. 12. In each unfolded frame part 50'' of the embodiment in Fig. 12, the shape of the second bent part 32 is changed from that of the example shown in Fig. 9, the middle part of the second connecting part 42' is formed into a shape that is convexly curved outward in the width direction, and a fifth bent part 35 and a sixth bent part 36 are added near the second bent part 32.

[0064] By sharpening the curvatures of the first and second bends 31 and 32 in this manner and adding the fifth and sixth bends 35 and 36, which also have sharp curvatures, the volume of the unfolded frame portion 50'' near the proximal end 10 is increased. This increased volume near the proximal end 10, like the proximal slope 16, has the effect of reducing the possibility of the embryo transfer device 1 being unintentionally expelled from the uterine cavity 210. Note that the embodiment of FIG. 12 also has the proximal slope 16. In addition, the X-axis passes through the proximal end and the embryo storage section in Figures 9, 10, 11, and 12, and the same applies to Figures 13, 15, etc., which will be described later.

[0065] The volume increase portion, proximal inclined portion 16, or other expulsion prevention portion for preventing the embryo transfer device 1 from expelling from the uterine cavity 210 is provided on the side or proximal end 10 of the one end of each unfolding frame portion.

[0066] When the embryo transfer device 1 is removed from the uterine cavity 210 by pulling the thread 11, the volume-increasing portion and the proximal inclined portion 16 are deformed so that the curvature of each bent portion becomes gentler, allowing the embryo transfer device 1 to be smoothly removed from the uterine cavity 210. This configuration has the effect of reducing damage to the cervix 220, the uterine cavity 210, the patient's body, the patient's mind, etc. when the embryo transfer device 1 is removed.

[0067] In each embodiment, the proximal end 10 has a shape in which the outer diameter gradually decreases toward the proximal end 1A. This configuration also has the effect of reducing damage to the cervix 220, the uterine cavity 210, the patient's body, the patient's mind, etc. when the embryo transfer device 1 is removed. Furthermore, in each embodiment, the thread 11 protrudes from the proximal end 10 to the outside of the embryo transfer device 1, and the end of the thread 11 is located inside the portion made of an elastic material, such as the proximal end 10. In this embodiment, the proximal end 10 is the portion from which the thread 11 protrudes. This configuration also has the effect of reducing damage to the cervix 220, uterine cavity 210, the patient's body, the patient's mind, etc., when the embryo transfer device 1 is removed. Note that the thread 11 may be connected to the portion made of an elastic material, such as the proximal end 10, by other methods.

[0068] 3, 9, etc., it is also possible to employ a second connecting portion 42 that is bent so as to approach the X-axis, instead of the straight second connecting portion 42. In this case, the second connecting portion 42 bends in a direction away from the X-axis from the one end to the other end. In another example, the second connecting portion 42 may be provided with a bent portion that bends in a direction away from the X-axis from the one end to the other end. These configurations are expected to contribute to the effect of stabilizing the position of the embryo transfer device 1 within the uterine cavity 210 or to the effect of preventing the embryo transfer device 1 from being unintentionally expelled from the uterine cavity 210.

[0069] It is also possible to employ an unfolding frame section 70 shown in Fig. 13 instead of the unfolding frame section 30. Each unfolding frame section 70 in the embodiment of Fig. 13 has a first bent section 31, a second bent section 32, a third bent section 33, a fourth bent section 34, a first connecting section 41, a second connecting section 42, and a third connecting section 43, similar to the unfolding frame section 30.

[0070] In each unfolded frame portion 70 of the embodiment of Fig. 13, a part of the fourth bent portion 34 becomes the widthwise outer portion 18, or a part of the fourth bent portion 34 and a part of the second bent portion 32 become the widthwise outer portion 18. The embodiment of Fig. 13 also has a distal direction inclined portion 15, a proximal direction inclined portion 16, and a Z-direction inclined portion 17, as in the embodiment of Fig. 9.

[0071] In the embodiment of Fig. 13, the second connecting portion 42 is provided with a bent portion 42a that bends from the one end toward the other end in a direction away from the X-axis. The entire or part of the second connecting portion 42 may have a convex shape in a direction approaching the X-axis. In the embodiment of Fig. 13, each unfolding frame portion 70 has a first convex curved portion 71 that is curved so as to have a convex shape in a direction away from the X-axis, and a second convex curved portion 72 that is positioned closer to the other end than the first convex curved portion 71 and is curved so as to have a convex shape in a direction away from the X-axis.

[0072] With this configuration, the first convex curved portion 71 and the second convex curved portion 72 of the embryo transfer device 1 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 13 are positioned along or in contact with both side walls of the uterine cavity 210. In Fig. 13, the outline shape of one example of the uterine cavity 210 is shown by a two-dot chain line. When placed in the uterine cavity 210, each unfolded frame portion 70 deforms appropriately according to the shape of the uterine cavity 210. This configuration stabilizes the position of the embryo transfer device 1 within the uterine cavity 210, making it possible to obtain the effect of facilitating the stabilization of the position of the embryo storage section 20 in the Y direction. Note that the degree of this effect is thought to change depending on the amount of protrusion, degree of curvature, etc., of the first convex curved portion 71 and the second convex curved portion 72.

[0073] 13, the second convex curved portion 72 also has a convex shape toward the back side of the uterine cavity 210, and a part of the second convex curved portion 72 is located further back in the uterine cavity 210 than the embryo storage portion 20 and / or the distal end 1B. This configuration can contribute to preventing the embryo storage portion 20 and / or the distal end 1B from contacting the uterine fundus 230 and reducing the force of such contact. These effects lead to the effect of minimizing unnecessary force on the uterine fundus 230 as much as possible. By using an examination device such as an ultrasound examination device, the state of deployment of each deployment frame part within the uterine cavity 210 and the state of contact between each deployment frame part and both side walls of the uterine cavity 210, the uterine fundus 230, etc. can be confirmed during or after insertion.

[0074] In the embodiment of the embryo transfer device 1 in Figure 13, it is also possible to define the outer periphery of the multiple unfolding frame parts 70 in the annular arrangement, as shown by the two-dot chain line in Figure 14. The two-dot chain line in Figure 14 is the shortest line drawn to encompass all of the multiple unfolding frame parts 70 when viewed from the direction along the Z axis, and this line defines the outer periphery of the annular part formed by the multiple unfolding frame parts 70.

[0075] It is also possible to define the outer periphery of the multiple unfolding frame parts 70 as shown by the two-dot chain line in Figure 15. The embryo transfer device 1 in Figure 15 is the embodiment of Figure 13, except that the protrusion amount in the X direction of each second convex curved part 72 is small. The two-dot chain line in Figure 15 is the shortest line drawn so as to include the embryo storage part 20 and the parts of the multiple unfolding frame parts 70 excluding the one end side when viewed from the direction along the Z axis, and this line forms the outer periphery of the annular part formed by the multiple unfolding frame parts 70.

[0076] In the embodiment of the embryo transfer device 1 in Figure 11, it is also possible to define the outer periphery of the multiple unfolding frame parts 50' as shown by the two-dot chain line in Figure 16. The two-dot chain line in Figure 16 is the shortest line drawn to include the entire unfolding frame parts 50' excluding the one end side when viewed from the direction along the Z axis, and this line forms the outer periphery of the annular part formed by the multiple unfolding frame parts 70.

[0077] In the embodiments of Figures 2, 10, 11 and 12, the outer periphery of the annular portion can also be defined along any of the above examples. To stabilize the position of the embryo storage unit 20 within the uterine cavity 210 while reducing the force applied to the endometrium by the embryo transfer device 1, the outer circumferential length of the annular portion is preferably 60 mm or more, more preferably 70 mm or more, and even more preferably 80 mm or more. Although it is not possible to specify the outer circumferential length due to individual differences in the shape, size, condition, etc. of the uterine cavity 210, the outer circumferential length of the annular portion is 180 mm or less, 150 mm or less, or 125 mm or less. Taking into consideration individual differences in the shape, size, condition, etc. of the uterine cavity 210, multiple types of embryo transfer devices 1 with different outer circumferential lengths of the annular portion may be prepared.

[0078] The embryo transfer device 2 according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. The embryo transfer device 2 of the second embodiment is inserted into the uterine cavity 210 from the distal end 2B side using a tube P, as in the first embodiment. The distal end 2B of the embryo transfer device 2 is part of the distal end portion 12, and the proximal end portion 10', which forms part of the proximal end portion 2A of the embryo transfer device 2, has a recess 21 formed therein as an embryo storage section, similar to that of the first embodiment. It can also be said that the proximal end portion 10' is the embryo storage section. The embryo transfer device 2 of the second embodiment has two unfolding frame portions 80 connecting the proximal end portion 10' and the distal end portion 12. One end of each unfolding frame portion 80 is connected to the proximal end portion 10', and the other end of each unfolding frame portion 80 is connected to or forms the distal end portion 12. As in the first embodiment, a thread 11 protrudes from the proximal end portion 10' of the embryo transfer device 2, and the embryo transfer device 2 is made of the same material as in the first embodiment.

[0079] In an unloaded state, each unfolded frame portion 80 has a first bent portion 81 that is curved from the one end toward the other end in a direction away from the X-axis, and a second bent portion 82 that is positioned closer to the other end than the first bent portion 81 and is bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction approaching the X-axis. The X-axis is an axis that passes through the proximal end portion 10′ and the distal end portion 12.

[0080] Each unfolding frame portion 80 also has a first connecting portion 83 that connects the first bent portion 81 and the second bent portion 82, and a second connecting portion 84 that connects the second bent portion 82 and the distal end portion 12. Each unfolding frame portion 80 can be formed into various shapes, as in the first embodiment. The unfolding frame part 80 of the second embodiment also has widthwise outer parts 18 and support parts (such as the side of the one end of the second bent part 82, the first connecting part 83, and the first bent part 81) that support the proximal end part 10', which is the embryo storage part, relative to the widthwise outer parts 18. The support parts may also have Z-direction inclined parts, as in the first embodiment.

[0081] When the two unfolding frame parts 80 are taken out of the tube P, the restoring force of the elastic deformation causes at least the middle parts in the length direction to move away from each other and away from the X axis in the Y direction, and the unfolding occurs as a result of this movement. This unfolding operation is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0082] As in the first embodiment, the two unfolding frame parts 80 provide resistance to the movement of the proximal end part 10' within the uterine cavity 210, thereby maintaining the embryo within the proximal end part 10' in a state where it can or is in contact with the endometrium.

[0083] In the second embodiment, the widthwise outer portion 18 is also positioned farther from the X-axis than the proximal end portion 10', which is the embryo storage portion. This has the effect of making it difficult for the proximal end portion 10', which is the embryo storage portion, to be positioned outside the width direction of the uterine cavity 210. This configuration also has the effect of preventing or reducing the embryo from being positioned on the fallopian tube side.

[0084] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the pair of unfolding frame parts 80, the distal end part 12, and the proximal end part 10' are also arranged over both side walls, the back side, and the entrance side of the uterine cavity 210, and it can be said that the above-mentioned annular arrangement is achieved only within the range of the pair of unfolding frame parts 80. It is preferable that the pair of unfolding frame parts 80 occupy 70% or more, more preferably 80% or more, and even more preferably 90% or more of the circumferential length of the annulus in order to stabilize the position of the proximal end part 10', which is the embryo storage part, within the uterine cavity 210 and to reduce the force applied to the endometrium by the embryo transfer device 2. In the second embodiment, too, the advantage is that the position of the proximal end 10' in the Y direction is more easily stabilized compared to when the proximal end 10', which is the embryo storage section, is supported by a thin rubber rod that extends from the proximal end 10' along the X axis and can be inserted into the tube P.

[0085] It is also possible for the embryo transfer device 1, 2 to have three or more expanding frame parts. For example, in the embodiment of Fig. 2, one expanding frame part 30 in the Y direction may be made up of two expanding frame parts arranged overlapping in the Z direction, and the other expanding frame part 30 in the Y direction may be made up of two expanding frame parts arranged overlapping in the Z direction. In this case, the embryo transfer device 1 would have four expanding frame parts.

[0086] 2, 17, etc. of the embryo transfer device 1, 2, other members such as a thin rubber frame, thread, or plastic frame may be arranged between the pair of unfolding frame portions 30, 80, with one end of the member connected to the proximal end portion 10, 10' and the other end of the member connected to the embryo storage portion 20 or the distal end portion 12. In this way, additional members, structures, etc. not shown in the above embodiments may be added as appropriate.

[0087] 17 may be configured as the embryo storage section 20 of the first embodiment. In this case, two embryo storage sections would be provided in the embryo transfer device 2. Alternatively, one embryo storage section could be provided in each unfolding frame section 80 of the embryo transfer device 2. In this case, multiple embryo storage sections would be provided in the embryo transfer device 2. Similar modifications may also be made to the embryo transfer device 1 shown in FIG. 2, etc.

[0088] 14, the embryo transfer devices 1 and 2 may be provided with a covering portion 11a that covers a predetermined length range of the thread 11, and the covering portion 11a may be made of the same rubber material as the proximal end portion 10 of the embryo transfer device 1. The predetermined length range is, for example, 30% or more, 50% or more, or 70% or more of the length of the thread 11. One end of the covering portion 11a is connected to an end or part of the proximal end portion 10.

[0089] In one example, the covering portion 11a is molded in a mold simultaneously with the molding of the proximal end portion 10. For example, with the thread 11 placed in the mold, a rubber material is filled into the mold, thereby covering the thread 11 with the covering portion 11a in such a manner that one end of the covering portion 11a is connected to the proximal end portion 10. This configuration is advantageous in achieving the effect of reducing damage to the cervix 220, the uterine cavity 210, the patient's body, the patient's mind, etc. during removal. This configuration can also reduce the possibility of germs entering the body through gaps between the fibers of the thread 11. To reduce this possibility, a monofilament thread can also be used as the thread 11 in each of the above-described embodiments. Because the thread 11 is molded as described above, a portion of the thread 11 may be exposed from the side surface 11b of the covering portion 11a.

[0090] In each of the above embodiments, one end of each frame part 30, 50, 50', 50'', 60, 70, 80 is a proximal end and the other end is a distal end, and each frame part 30, 50, 50', 50'', 60, 70, 80 is connected to the embryo storage part 20, 21. When the frame parts 30, 50, 50', 50'', 60, 70, 80 are placed in the tube P, they are stored in a shape that conforms to the interior (hollow part) of the tube P. When the frame parts 30, 50, 50', 50'', 60, 70, 80 are removed from the tube P and placed in the uterine cavity 210, they are deployed mainly in the direction along the Y-axis. The embryo storage parts 20, 21 are open in the direction along the Z-axis. Each of the above embodiments has the effect of making it easier to stabilize the position of the embryo storage section 20, 21 in the Y direction, compared to when the embryo storage section 20, 21 is supported by a thin rubber rod that extends along the X axis from the embryo storage section 20, 21 and can be inserted into the tube P, and it is easier to maintain the embryo in a state where it can come into contact with the endometrium of the uterine cavity 210 or in contact with it.

[0091] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, an embryo transfer device 4 can also be manufactured in which the proximal end 90A of the frame portion 90 is connected to a proximal end portion 10 similar to that of the first embodiment, and the distal end 90B of the frame portion 90 is connected to an embryo storage portion 20 similar to that of the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the proximal end portion 10 constitutes the proximal end 1A of the embryo transfer device 4, and the embryo storage portion 20 constitutes the distal end 1B of the embryo transfer device 4.

[0092] The shape of the embryo transfer device 4 in an unloaded state is described below. The X-axis of the embryo transfer device 4 passes through the proximal end 90A and the distal end 90B of the frame portion 90. The frame portion 90 also has a first bent portion 91 that curves away from the X-axis from the proximal end 90A to the distal end 90B, and a second bent portion 92 that is positioned closer to the distal end 90B than the first bent portion 91 and curves closer to the X-axis from the proximal end 90A to the distal end 90B.

[0093] The frame portion 90 also has a third bent portion 93 that is disposed closer to the distal end 90B than the second bent portion 92 and bent in a direction away from the X-axis from the distal end 90B toward the proximal end 90A. The frame portion 90 also has a fourth bent portion 94 that is disposed closer to the distal end 90B than the second bent portion 92 and closer to the proximal end 90A than the third bent portion 93 and bent in a direction approaching the X-axis from the proximal end 90A toward the distal end 90B. 19, the second bent portion 92 and the fourth bent portion 94 are connected by a connecting portion 95, but other shapes of the frame portion 90 may be employed. In one example, the frame portion 90 is made of the same material as in the first and second embodiments, and is molded integrally with the proximal end portion 10 and the embryo storage portion 20 using a mold.

[0094] When the frame portion 90 is placed inside the pipe P as shown in Figure 23, it is stored in a state that conforms to the shape of the interior (hollow portion) of the pipe P, and at this time the curvature of each of the bent portions 91, 92, 93, and 94 becomes gentle or each of the bent portions 91, 92, 93, and 94 is stretched out in an approximately straight line. When the frame portion 90 is taken out of the tube P and placed in the uterine cavity 210, it unfolds mainly in the direction along the Y axis, similar to the first and second embodiments.

[0095] This has the effect of making it easier to stabilize the position of the embryo storage unit 20 in the Y direction compared to when the embryo storage unit 20 is supported by a thin rubber rod that extends from the embryo storage unit 20 along the X axis and can be inserted into the tube P. Also, it is easier to maintain the embryo in a state where it can or does come into contact with the endometrium of the uterine cavity 210.

[0096] In addition, as shown in Figures 20 to 22, it is also possible to manufacture an embryo transfer device 5 in which the proximal end 96A of the frame portion 96 is connected to the proximal end portion 10 similar to that of the first embodiment, and the distal end 96B of the frame portion 96 is connected to the embryo storage portion 20 similar to that of the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the proximal end portion 10 constitutes the proximal end 1A of the embryo transfer device 5, and the embryo storage portion 20 constitutes the distal end 1B of the embryo transfer device 5.

[0097] The shape of the embryo transfer device 5 in an unloaded state is described below. The X-axis of the embryo transfer device 5 passes through the proximal end 96A and the distal end 96B of the frame portion 96. In one example, the frame portion 96 has a long cylindrical shape, a rectangular prism shape, or the like along the X-axis from the proximal end 96A to the distal end 96B.

[0098] A recess 96C is provided in a portion of the frame portion 96 in the longitudinal direction, and an unfolding portion 97 is disposed within the recess 96C. In one example, the frame portion 96 and the unfolding portion 97 are made of the same material as those in the first and second embodiments and are integrally molded using a mold. One end of the unfolding portion 97 is fixed to the frame portion 96 or the embryo storage portion 20, and the other end of the unfolding portion 97 unfolds in the Y direction away from the X axis in an unloaded state ( FIG. 22 ).

[0099] When the frame portion 96 and the unfolding portion 97 are placed inside the pipe P, they are stored in a state that conforms to the shape of the interior (hollow portion) of the pipe P, and at this time the frame portion 96 and the unfolding portion 97 are close to each other as shown in Figure 21. When the deployment portion 97 is taken out of the tube P and placed in the uterine cavity 210, it deploys mainly in the direction along the Y axis, similar to the first and second embodiments.

[0100] This has the effect of making it easier to stabilize the position of the embryo storage unit 20 in the Y direction compared to when the embryo storage unit 20 is supported by a thin rubber rod that extends from the embryo storage unit 20 along the X axis and can be inserted into the tube P. Also, it is easier to maintain the embryo in a state where it can or does come into contact with the endometrium of the uterine cavity 210. It is possible to change the shapes and structures of the frame portion 96 and the unfolding portion 97. For example, depending on the conditions, a configuration may be adopted in which the other end of the unfolding portion 97 is fixed to the frame portion 96 and the other part of the unfolding portion 97 unfolds in the Y direction.

[0101] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, the present disclosure is not limited to the individual embodiments described above. These embodiments can be variously added, replaced, modified, partially deleted, etc., without departing from the gist of the invention or the concept and spirit of the present invention derived from the content of the claims and their equivalents. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the order of each operation, the order of each process, the omission or addition of some operations depending on conditions, and the omission or addition of some processes depending on conditions can be changed without being bound by the above examples. The same applies when numerical values ​​or mathematical expressions are used in the description of the above embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1, 2, 4, 5 Embryo Transfer Device 1A, 2A, 90A, 96A proximal end 1B, 2B, 90B, 96B distal end 10, 10' proximal end 11 Thread 15, 15' distally beveled section 16 Proximal bevel 17, 17' Z direction inclined part 18 Widthwise outer part 20 Embryo storage 30, 50, 50'50'', 60, 70, 80 Expandable frame 31 1st bending part 32 2nd bending part 33 3rd bending part 34 4th bending part 41 First connection part 42, 42' Second connection part 43 Third connection part 61 1st bending part 62 2nd bending part 63 3rd bending part 90, 96 Frame section 97 Development Section

Claims

1. An embryo transfer device having a proximal end and a distal end, the device being inserted into a uterine cavity from the side of the distal end using a tube inserted into the cervix, a proximal end portion forming a side of the proximal end; an embryo storage section provided on the distal end side and capable of storing an embryo; two or more expansion frame sections connecting the proximal end and the embryo storage section; The two or more expansion frame sections are configured to be brought close to each other by elastic deformation when placed within the tube, and when removed from the tube and placed within the uterine cavity, to be expanded in a direction along a Y-axis perpendicular to an X-axis passing through the proximal end and the embryo storage section by the restoring force of the elastic deformation.

2. The embryo transfer device according to claim 1 , wherein the embryo storage section is open in a direction along a Z-axis perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis.

3. 3. The embryo transfer device according to claim 1, wherein each of the expansion frame portions is made of a material having a hardness of 90 points or less when measured with a type A durometer.

4. each of the expansion frame portions has one end connected to the proximal end portion and the other end connected to the embryo storage portion; In an unloaded state in which no load is applied to each of the deployment frame portions, a first bent portion bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction away from the X-axis; a second bent portion that is disposed closer to the other end than the first bent portion and bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction approaching the X-axis; a third bent portion that is disposed closer to the other end than the second bent portion and bent from the other end toward the one end in a direction away from the X-axis; The embryo transfer device according to claim 2, comprising at least

5. 5. The embryo transfer device according to claim 4, wherein each of the unfolding frame portions has a fourth bent portion that is positioned closer to the other end than the second bent portion and closer to the one end than the third bent portion, and that is bent from the one end toward the other end in a direction approaching the X-axis.

6. each of the expansion frame portions has one end connected to the proximal end portion and the other end connected to the embryo storage portion; In an unloaded state in which no load is applied to each of the deployment frame portions, a first convex curved portion that is curved to have a convex shape in a direction away from the X axis; a second convex curved portion that is disposed closer to the other end than the first convex curved portion and that is curved to have a convex shape in a direction away from the X axis; The embryo transfer device according to claim 2, comprising at least

7. 6. The embryo transfer device according to claim 4, wherein, in the unloaded state, the angle formed by the direction of extension of the portion of each unfolding frame section extending from the third bend toward the one end and the X-axis on the distal end side is less than 90°.

8. The embryo transfer device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein in the unloaded state, each of the unfolded frame portions has a distally inclined portion that is inclined toward the distal end in a portion extending from the third bend portion toward the one end.

9. 6. The embryo transfer device according to claim 4, wherein a Z-direction inclined portion is provided in the range from the other end of each unfolding frame portion to the second bending portion, the Z-direction inclined portion being inclined in a direction along the Z-axis in the unloaded state.

10. 6. The embryo transfer device of claim 1, wherein the proximal end or the two or more unfolding frame portions are provided with an expulsion prevention portion for preventing the embryo transfer device from being expelled from the uterine cavity.

11. An embryo transfer device having a proximal end and a distal end, the device being inserted into a uterine cavity from the side of the distal end using a tube inserted into the cervix, an embryo storage unit capable of storing an embryo; two or more deployment frame portions; the two or more expansion frame parts are brought close to each other by elastic deformation when placed in the tube, and when removed from the tube and placed in the uterine cavity, are expanded in a direction along a Y axis perpendicular to an X axis passing through the proximal end and the distal end by a restoring force of the elastic deformation, The embryo storage section is open in a direction along a Z-axis perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis.

12. The embryo transfer device according to claim 11 , wherein the two or more expansion frame portions position the embryo storage portion toward the center of the width direction of the uterine cavity upon expansion.

13. At least two of the two or more deployment frame portions are a widthwise outer portion constituting both outer portions of the embryo transfer device in the direction along the Y axis; a support portion that is formed between the outer width portion and the embryo storage portion and supports the embryo storage portion relative to the outer width portion; 13. The embryo transfer device of claim 1, 2, 11, or 12, comprising:

14. The embryo transfer device of claim 13 , wherein the support portion extends primarily in a direction along the Y-axis.

15. 1. An embryo transfer device that is inserted into the uterine cavity using a tube that is inserted into the cervix, comprising: an embryo storage unit capable of storing an embryo; a frame member having a proximal end and a distal end, the frame member being connected to the embryo storage member; the unfolding section or the frame section, one end of which is fixed to the frame section, is in a stored state conforming to the internal shape of the tube when placed in the tube, and when removed from the tube and placed in the uterine cavity, is unfolded mainly in a direction along the Y axis, the direction along the Y axis being a direction perpendicular to the X axis passing through the proximal end and the distal end, The embryo storage section is open in a direction along a Z-axis perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis.

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