Light irradiation device

Abstract

To provide a light irradiation device capable of easily cauterizing a desired range of a site in a living body.SOLUTION: There is provided a light irradiation device having a tip part for irradiating an affected part with light. The tip part includes: a first reflector of a hollow shape having a first mirror plane on the inner peripheral surface, which is provided with an incident port for causing the light guided from a light source to be made incident inside and an emission port for emitting the light reflected by the first mirror plane to the outside; and a cap for closing the emission port. A part of the cap for closing the emission port is of a planar shape and has light transmissivity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0006] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a light irradiation device.

Background Art

[0002] As a treatment method for cervical cancer, conization is known. Conization is a treatment method in which, for example, using an electric scalpel, the cervical part where a lesion exists is excised in a conical shape.

[0003] On the other hand, as a treatment method not relying on conization, laser evaporation is known. Laser evaporation is a treatment method in which a CO2 laser is irradiated onto a site where dysplasia has occurred in the cervical part to cauterize the lesion (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a light irradiation device capable of easily cauterizing a desired range of a site in a living body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The invention for achieving the above object is a light irradiation device having a tip for irradiating light to an affected part, wherein the tip has a hollow shape, a first mirror surface is provided on an inner peripheral surface, an inlet for allowing light guided from a light source to enter inside and an outlet for allowing the light reflected by the first mirror surface to exit outside are provided on a first reflector, and a cap for closing the outlet is provided, and a portion of the cap for closing the outlet has translucency and has a planar shape. Other features of the present invention will be clarified by the description in the following specification and drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a desired area of ​​a body part can be easily cauterized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating a light irradiation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating a light irradiation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light irradiation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4A] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first reflector of the light irradiation device of the embodiment. [Figure 4B] This is a side view illustrating the first reflector of the light irradiation device of the embodiment. [Figure 5A] This is a perspective view illustrating the second reflector of the light irradiation device of the embodiment. [Figure 5B] This is a side view illustrating the second reflector of the light irradiation device of the embodiment. [Figure 6A] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cap of the light irradiation device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6B] This is a side view illustrating the cap of the light irradiation device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7A] This is a diagram illustrating the method of using the light irradiation system of the embodiment. [Figure 7B] This is a diagram illustrating the method of using the light irradiation system of the embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a modified light irradiation device. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a modified light irradiation device. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view illustrating the second reflector of a modified light irradiation device. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a modified light irradiation device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] ==Embodiment== <<Light irradiation system>> The light irradiation system 1 of the present embodiment is a system for irradiating light to a desired range in a living body to cauterize the range. In the present embodiment, an example of treating cervical cancer by cauterizing dysplasia occurring in the cervix will be described.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the light irradiation system 1. The light irradiation system 1 includes a light source device 2 and a light irradiation device 3.

[0011] <Light source device> The light source device 2 is a device that generates light for cauterizing living tissue. The light source device 2 has a light source that generates light in a wavelength region suitable for the light absorption / scattering characteristics of the tissue to be cauterized. Specifically, a laser light source, an LED light source, a halogen lamp, a xenon lamp, etc. are used as the light source.

[0012] <Light irradiation device> The light irradiation device 3 is a device for irradiating the light generated by the light source device 2 to living tissue. FIGS. 2 and 3 are diagrams for explaining the light irradiation device 3 of the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the light irradiation device 3. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the light irradiation device 3. The light irradiation device 3 has a cable portion 30, a grip portion 31, and a tip portion 32.

[0013] Note that, in the light irradiation device 3, the portions of the grip portion 31 and the tip portion 32 are substantially rotationally symmetric with respect to the symmetry axis X1 shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the light irradiation device 3 on a plane passing through the symmetry axis X1.

[0014] [Cable portion] The cable section 30 is a long member for guiding light from the light source device 2. The member for guiding light is, for example, an optical fiber, which propagates light from the light source device 2 to the light irradiation device 3. The cable section 30 in this embodiment is an optical fiber having a two-layer structure consisting of a core in the center and a cladding surrounding the core to confine the light propagating through the core inside the core.

[0015] The cable section 30 has a first end 30a and a second end 30b. The first end 30a is connectable to the tip section 32 (details will be described later). The second end 30b is connectable to the light source device 2 (Figure 1). When the first end 30a is connected to the tip section 32 and the second end 30b is connected to the light source device 2, light incident from the light source device 2 to the second end 30b of the cable section 30 propagates through the cable section 30 and is incident on the tip section 32.

[0016] In the following description, the surface on which light from the light source device 2 is emitted at the first end 30a of the cable portion 30 is referred to as the "end face 30c". In this embodiment, the end face 30c of the cable portion 30 is flat (Figure 3).

[0017] [Gripping part] The gripping portion 31 is a component used by the operator to grip the light irradiation device 3 when operating it.

[0018] The gripping portion 31 is a tubular member having a first end 31a and a second end 31b. The gripping portion 31 also has an inner circumferential surface 31c and an outer circumferential surface 31d. The first end 30a of the cable portion 30 is positioned inside the gripping portion 31.

[0019] The inner circumferential surface 31c of the gripping portion 31 has no particular restrictions on its shape, as long as the cable portion 30 can be positioned inside the gripping portion 31.

[0020] A connecting portion 31e is provided near the first end 31a on the outer circumferential surface 31d of the gripping portion 31 (Figure 3).

[0021] As will be described in more detail later, the first end 31a of the gripping portion 31 and the first reflector 320 are connected to each other. The connecting portion 31e is the part that contacts the first reflector 320 when the first end 31a of the gripping portion 31 and the first reflector 320 are connected.

[0022] Of the outer peripheral surface 31d of the gripping portion 31, there are no particular restrictions on the shape of the portion other than the connecting portion 31e, as long as it is a shape suitable for the operator to grip and operate the light irradiation device 3.

[0023] [Tip] The tip portion 32 is connected to the cable portion 30 and is a component for irradiating light onto a desired area. The tip portion 32 comprises a first reflector 320, a second reflector 321, and a cap 322.

[0024] (First reflector) The first reflector 320 is a component that reflects the light generated by the light source device 2 (light guided by the cable section 30) and focuses it at a predetermined focal point (the second focal point F2, which will be described later in this example). The first reflector 320 has an inner circumferential surface 320a and an outer circumferential surface 320b, and is a hollow component.

[0025] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate the first reflector 320. The first reflector 320 has an axis of symmetry X2. Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of the first reflector 320 in a plane passing through the axis of symmetry X2, and Figure 4B is a view of the first reflector 320 from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X2.

[0026] In this embodiment, the first reflector 320 is a member that is substantially rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry X2. Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface 320a of the first reflector 320 has a shape similar to a part of the surface of a spheroid that is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry X2 (Figure 4A). Hereinafter, the spheroid will be referred to as "spheroid E". Spheroid E has two foci F (the first focal point F1 and the second focal point F2) on the axis of symmetry X2. The first reflector 320 is designed such that the major axis Xa of spheroid E is positioned on the axis of symmetry X2, and the minor axis Xb of spheroid E is positioned perpendicular to the axis of symmetry X2.

[0027] In the following, the direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X2 and moving from the second focus F2 to the first focus F1 will be referred to as the "first direction," and the direction opposite to the first direction will be referred to as the "second direction."

[0028] The first reflector 320 is provided with a mirror surface 320c (corresponding to the "first mirror surface"), an entrance port 320d, an exit port 320e, a fixed surface 320f, a first connecting portion 320g, and a second connecting portion 320h.

[0029] The mirror surface 320c is provided inside the first reflector 320 to reflect light that has reached the inner circumferential surface 320a. The mirror surface 320c is formed by coating the inner circumferential surface 320a with a light-reflecting material. Metal materials such as silver (Ag) and aluminum (Al) are used as the light-reflecting material.

[0030] The entrance port 320d is the part that directs the light generated by the light source device 2 into the interior of the first reflector 320.

[0031] In this embodiment, the entrance port 320d has a circular shape when viewed from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X2 of the first reflector 320 (Figure 4B), and the center of the entrance port 320d coincides with the axis of symmetry X2.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the first end 30a of the cable section 30 is connected to the entrance opening 320d of the first reflector 320. In this connected state, the end face 30c of the cable section 30 is located on the first direction side with respect to the first focal point F1.

[0033] The exit port 320e is the part that causes the light reflected by the mirror surface 320c to be emitted to the outside of the first reflector 320. The exit port 320e is located at a distance from the entrance port 320d.

[0034] In this embodiment, the nozzle 320e has a circular shape when viewed from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X2 of the first reflector 320 (Figure 4B), and the center of the nozzle 320e coincides with the axis of symmetry X2. In other words, in this embodiment, the inlet 320d and the nozzle 320e are positioned opposite each other in the direction of the axis of symmetry X2.

[0035] In this embodiment, the inner surface 320a of the first reflector 320 has the same shape as the surface of one half of the ellipsoid E on the side of one focal point F (in this example, the first focal point F1). Therefore, the diameter of the outlet 320e is equal to the length of the minor axis Xb of the ellipsoid E. In this embodiment, the diameter of the outlet 320e is 15.04 mm.

[0036] The fixed surface 320f is provided to fix the position of the second reflector 321, which will be described later. The fixed surface 320f is provided on the surface of the first reflector 320, specifically on the peripheral edge of the outlet 320e.

[0037] In this embodiment, the fixed surface 320f is also the surface connecting the inner circumferential surface 320a and the outer circumferential surface 320b. The fixed surface 320f is a plane perpendicular to the axis of symmetry X2. When viewed from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X2, the fixed surface 320f has an annular shape with a predetermined width centered on the axis of symmetry X2 (Figure 4B). The details of the relationship between the fixed surface 320f and the second reflector 321 will be described later.

[0038] The first connection portion 320g is provided on the inner circumferential surface 320a in the vicinity of the inlet 320d.

[0039] The first reflector 320 and the gripping part 31 are connected to each other. Figure 3 shows the state in which the first reflector 320 and the gripping part 31 are connected to each other.

[0040] At this time, the first connecting portion 320g of the first reflector 320 and the connecting portion 31e of the gripping portion 31 are in contact. Furthermore, at this time, the axis of symmetry X2 coincides with the axis of symmetry X1.

[0041] The configuration in which the first reflector 320 and the gripping portion 31 are connected to each other by the first connecting portion 320g and the connecting portion 31e is not particularly limited.

[0042] For example, the first reflector 320 and the gripping portion 31 may be fixed together by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. In this case, the first connecting portion 320g of the first reflector 320 and the connecting portion 21e of the gripping portion 31 should both be surfaces with a uniform distance from the axis of symmetry X1.

[0043] Alternatively, the first reflector 320 and the gripping portion 31 may be fixed together with screws. In this case, the first connecting portion 320g and the connecting portion 21e should be provided with spiral grooves such that the first reflector 320 has a female thread and the gripping portion 31 has a male thread.

[0044] Alternatively, the first reflector 320 and the gripping portion 31 may be fixed together by welding. In this case, the first connecting portion 320g and the connecting portion 21e are welded to each other.

[0045] Regarding the propagation of light through the first reflector 320 Hereafter, the "positions corresponding to the foci F of the ellipsoid E (the first foci F1 and the second foci F2)" will be referred to as the "foci F of the first reflector 320 (the first foci F1 and the second foci F2)." From the general properties of ellipsoids, it can be said that the first reflector 320 has the following properties.

[0046] Inside the first reflector 320, light that has passed through one focal point F of the first reflector 320, when reflected by the mirror surface 320c, changes direction of travel toward the other focal point F of the first reflector 320 and passes through the other focal point F of the first reflector 320. Furthermore, light that has passed through the other focal point F of the first reflector 320, when reflected by the mirror surface 320c, changes direction of travel toward the first focal point F of the first reflector 320 and passes through the first focal point F of the first reflector 320.

[0047] Based on the properties of the first reflector 320 described above, the light generated by the light source device 2 propagates as follows.

[0048] The light generated by the light source device 2 propagates through the cable section 30 and is emitted from the end face 30c of the cable section 30 (i.e., it enters the interior of the first reflector 320 of the light irradiation device 3). At this time, light traveling at various angles relative to the end face 30c of the cable section 30 is emitted from the end face 30c of the cable section 30.

[0049] A portion of the light emitted from the end face 30c of the cable section 30 directly reaches the first focal point F1 and passes through the first focal point F1. After passing through the first focal point F1, the light is reflected once by the mirror surface 320c and then changes direction toward the second focal point F2. It then focuses at the second focal point F2, and the biological tissue located near the second focal point F2 is efficiently cauterized.

[0050] In this case, the greater the amount of light that passes through the first focal point F1 from the end face 30c of the cable section 30 to the first reflector 320, the more efficiently the illuminance of the light for cauterization can be increased.

[0051] (Second reflector) The second reflector 321 is a component that reflects the light incident from the entrance opening 320d and disperses it in multiple directions.

[0052] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate the second reflector 321. The second reflector 321 has an axis of symmetry X3. Figure 5A is a perspective view of the second reflector 321, and Figure 5B is a view of the second reflector 321 from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X3. The second reflector 321 has a light-shielding portion 321a and a support portion 321b.

[0053] The light-shielding portion 321a is provided to shield the cap 322 (details of which will be described later) from light incident from the entrance port 320d. If light incident from the entrance port 320d directly reaches the cap 322 (details of which will be described later), the cap 322 is prone to localized heating. The light-shielding portion 321a is a component that prevents such heating.

[0054] The light-shielding portion 321a is a convex member. In this embodiment, the light-shielding portion 321a is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry X3. The surface of the light-shielding portion 321a has a predetermined angle with respect to the axis of symmetry X3. In other words, the light-shielding portion 321a has a shape similar to the conical surface of a cone. In this example, the surface of the light-shielding portion 321a is 30° with respect to the axis of symmetry X3.

[0055] The support portion 321b is a member for supporting the light-shielding portion 321a in a predetermined position. In this embodiment, the support portion 321b is composed of a frame 321c and an arm 321d.

[0056] Frame 321c is an annular member. The light-shielding portion 321a is positioned inside the annular portion of frame 321c. Frame 321c is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry X3.

[0057] The frame 321c is provided with a first fixed surface 321e, a second fixed surface 321f, and a third fixed surface 321g. The first fixed surface 321e and the second fixed surface 321f are planes parallel to each other and perpendicular to the axis of symmetry X3.

[0058] Both the first fixed surface 321e and the second fixed surface 321f have an annular shape centered on the axis of symmetry X3 when viewed from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X3 (Figure 5B). Furthermore, the outer circumference of the first fixed surface 321e and the outer circumference of the second fixed surface 321f coincide with each other (Figure 5B).

[0059] The third fixed surface 321g is the surface connecting the first fixed surface 321e and the second fixed surface 321f, and its distance from the axis of symmetry X3 is uniform.

[0060] The arm 321d is provided to fix the relative positions of the light-shielding portion 321a and the frame 321c. The arm 321d is a rod-shaped member, with one end connected to the light-shielding portion 321a and the other end connected to the frame 321c.

[0061] The entire surface of the second reflector 321 is provided with a mirror surface 321h (corresponding to the "second mirror surface"). Note that the mirror surface 321h is not limited to the entire surface of the second reflector 321, but may be provided at least on the convex surface of the light-shielding portion 321a.

[0062] The mirror surface 321h is provided inside the first reflector 320 to reflect and disperse the light incident from the entrance port 320d in multiple directions. The mirror surface 321h is formed by coating the surface of the second reflector 321 with the same material as the mirror surface 320c.

[0063] The second reflector 321 has an arbitrary configuration and does not need to be provided on the light irradiation device 3.

[0064] (cap) The cap 322 is a component for blocking the outlet 320e of the first reflector 320. Of the portion of the cap 322, at least the portion that blocks the outlet 320e is light-transmitting.

[0065] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate the cap 322. The cap 322 has an axis of symmetry X4. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of the cap 322 in a plane passing through the axis of symmetry X4, and Figure 6B is a view of the cap 322 from the direction of the axis of symmetry X4.

[0066] In this embodiment, the cap 322 is a member that is substantially rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry X4. The cap 322 has a substantially uniform predetermined thickness and has an inner circumferential surface 322a and an outer circumferential surface 322b. The cap 322 also has a cylindrical side portion 322c and a top portion 322d that closes one end of the side portion 322c.

[0067] Of the outer circumferential surface 322b of the cap 322, the portion corresponding to the side portion 322c is cylindrical in shape. Of the outer circumferential surface 322b of the cap 322, the portion corresponding to the top portion 322d is planar in shape. The cap 322 may be a member in which the side portion 322c and the top portion 322d are integrally formed, or it may be a member in which the side portion 322c and the top portion 322d are formed separately and connected to each other.

[0068] The cap 322 is provided with a fixed surface 322e and a connecting portion 322f.

[0069] The fixing surface 322e is provided near the boundary between the side portion 322c and the top portion 322d of the inner circumferential surface 322a of the cap 322. The fixing surface 322e is provided to fix the second reflector 321 by contacting the first fixed surface 321e of the second reflector 321 (details will be described later).

[0070] The fixed surface 322e is a plane perpendicular to the axis of symmetry X4 (Figure 6A). Furthermore, the fixed surface 322e is positioned at a predetermined distance d from the apex 322d in the direction of the axis of symmetry X4 (Figure 6A).

[0071] In this embodiment, the fixed surface 322e, when viewed from a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry X4, has a circumferential shape with a predetermined width centered on the axis of symmetry X4 (Figure 6B).

[0072] The connecting portion 322f is provided on the inner circumferential surface 322a of the cap 322, in the portion corresponding to the side portion 322c.

[0073] As mentioned above, the first reflector 320 and the cap 322 are fixed to each other. Figure 3 shows the state in which the first reflector 320 and the cap 322 are fixed to each other.

[0074] At this time, the second connection portion 320g of the first reflector 320 and the connection portion 322f of the cap 322 are in contact. Furthermore, at this time, the axis of symmetry X4 coincides with the axis of symmetry X2.

[0075] The manner in which the first reflector 320 and the cap 322 are connected to each other by the second connecting portion 320h and the connecting portion 322f is not particularly limited. However, since this is a part that may come into contact with living organisms, it must have a waterproof structure. It is necessary to prevent water from entering between the second connecting portion 320h and the connecting portion 322f so that the inside does not fog up with water vapor or the like.

[0076] For example, the first reflector 320 and the cap 322 may be fixed together by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. In this case, the second connection portion 320h of the first reflector 320 and the connection portion 322f of the cap 322 should both be surfaces with a uniform distance from the axis of symmetry X1.

[0077] Alternatively, the first reflector 320 and the cap 322 may be fixed together with screws. In this case, the second connecting portion 320h and the connecting portion 322f should be provided with spiral grooves such that the first reflector 320 has a male thread and the cap 322 has a female thread.

[0078] Furthermore, when the first reflector 320 and the cap 322 are fixed by welding, the second connecting portion 320h and the connecting portion 322f are welded to each other.

[0079] • Relationship between cap 322 and first reflector 320 In the state where the cap 322 and the first reflector 320 are fixed to each other (Figure 3), the cap 322 closes the outlet 320e and forms an internal space with the first reflector 320. The internal space here is the space formed by the portion of the inner circumferential surface 322a of the cap 322 corresponding to the top 322d and the inner circumferential surface 320a of the first reflector 320.

[0080] The position corresponding to the second focal point F2 of the first reflector 320 is outside the internal space. In other words, the light from the light source device 2 that has passed through the first focal point F1 is reflected by the mirror surface 320c and then focused outside the internal space.

[0081] With this configuration of cap 322 and first reflector 320, the position for focusing light from light source device 2 (second focal point F2) can be located outside the light irradiation device 3.

[0082] • Relationship between cap 322, first reflector 320, and second reflector 321 In the state where the cap 322 and the first reflector 320 are fixed to each other (Figure 3), the frame 321c of the second reflector 321 is sandwiched between the cap 322 and the first reflector 320.

[0083] At this time, the axis of symmetry X4 of the cap 322, the axis of symmetry X2 of the first reflector 320, and the axis of symmetry X3 of the second reflector 321 coincide with each other on the axis of symmetry X1.

[0084] Specifically, the first fixed surface 321e of the frame 321c is in contact with the fixed surface 322e of the cap 322. The second fixed surface 321f of the frame 321c is in contact with the fixed surface 320f of the first reflector 320. The third fixed surface 321g of the frame 321c is in contact with the portion of the inner circumferential surface 322a of the cap 322 that corresponds to the side portion 322c.

[0085] Based on these considerations, the movement of the second reflector 321 in the direction of the axis of symmetry X3 and in the direction perpendicular to the axis of symmetry X3 is suppressed with respect to the cap 322 and the first reflector 320.

[0086] Furthermore, since the fixed surface 322e of the cap 322 is provided at a position with a distance d from the top portion 322d of the cap 322 in the direction of the axis of symmetry X4, in the state shown in Figure 3, the top portion 322d of the cap 322 and the second reflector 321 are separated by a distance d. This makes it possible to suppress the diffusion of heat generated in the second reflector 321 to the top portion 322d.

[0087] <<Instructions for using the light irradiation system>> The method of using the light irradiation system 1 of this embodiment will be described. In this example, the procedure for treating cervical cancer will be described. Figures 7A and 7B illustrate the procedure for treating cervical cancer using the light irradiation system 1 of this embodiment. The light irradiation system 1 is operated by the operator and an assistant. Specifically, the light irradiation device 3 is operated by the operator, and the light source device 2 is operated by the assistant.

[0088] First, the tip 32 of the light irradiation device 3 is inserted into the patient's vaginal cavity 10 (Figure 7A). Then, the top 322d of the cap 322 is pressed against the cervix 11 (Figure 7B).

[0089] When the assistant turns on the light source device 2, the light irradiation device 3 irradiates light from its tip 32 (the top 322d of the cap 322). Thus, the cervix 11 to which the top 322d of the cap 322 is pressed can be cauterized.

[0090] At this time, the light emitted over the range of the outlet 320e can cauterize the area of ​​the cervix 11 that is in contact with the outlet 320e (in this example, an area of ​​a circle with a diameter of 15.04 mm) in one go.

[0091] Furthermore, by focusing the light at or near the position corresponding to the second focal point F2, it is possible to efficiently cauterize the area from the surface of the cervix 11 to the depth corresponding to the second focal point F2.

[0092] In other words, according to the light irradiation device 3 of this embodiment, a desired area of ​​a body part can be easily cauterized.

[0093] ==Variation 1== Figure 8 illustrates the light irradiation device 4 of this modified example. The light irradiation device 4 of this modified example differs from the light irradiation device 3 of the embodiment only in the configuration of the second reflector 323.

[0094] In this modified example, the surface of the light-shielding portion 323a of the second reflector 323 is at a 45° angle with respect to the axis of symmetry X3. By giving the surface of the light-shielding portion 323a this shape, the light emitted from the outlet 320e can be dispersed to the outside of the axis of symmetry X1, compared to the light irradiation device 3 of the embodiment.

[0095] Furthermore, the larger the angle between the surface of the light-shielding portion 323a and the axis of symmetry X3, the more the amount of light incident from the entrance port 320d that directly reaches the exit port 320e can be suppressed. In this case, the amount of light incident from the entrance port 320d that passes through reflection from the mirror surface 320c increases. Consequently, the heat generated by the cap 322 is suppressed, and the uniformity of the light emitted from the exit port is improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the smaller the angle between the surface of the light-shielding portion 323a and the axis of symmetry X3, the greater the amount of light that reaches the output port 320e directly from the incident port 320d without being reflected by the mirror surface 320c. In this case, light can be selectively emitted to an even more limited range within the range of the output port 320e.

[0097] In other words, the angle between the surface of the light-shielding portion 323a and the axis of symmetry X3 can be appropriately set according to the concentration of heat in the cap 322, the desired intensity distribution of the emitted light, and so on.

[0098] ==Variation 2== Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the modified light irradiation device 5. Here, Figure 10 is a perspective view of the second reflector 324. The modified light irradiation device 5 differs from the light irradiation device 3 of the embodiment only in the configuration of the second reflector 324.

[0099] In this modified example, the surface of the light-shielding portion 324a of the second reflector 324 includes a portion that is at a 30° angle with respect to the axis of symmetry X3 and a portion that is at a 45° angle. By giving the surface of the light-shielding portion 324a such a shape, the light emitted from the output port 320e can be made more uniform compared to the light irradiation device 3 of the embodiment.

[0100] ==Variation 3== In the above embodiment or modification, the second reflector 321 is shown in which the angle between the surface of the light-shielding portion 321a and the axis of symmetry X3 is acute (an angle less than 90°), but it is not limited to this.

[0101] The angle between the surface of the light-shielding portion 321a and the axis of symmetry X3 may be a right angle (90°). In other words, the mirror surface 321h may be a flat surface. Alternatively, the angle between the surface of the light-shielding portion 321a and the axis of symmetry X3 may be an obtuse angle (an angle greater than 90°). Even with these configurations, localized heat generation of the cap 322 can be suppressed.

[0102] ==Variation 3== Figure 11 illustrates the light irradiation device 6 of this modified example. The light irradiation device 6 of this modified example differs from the light irradiation device 3 of the above embodiment only in the configuration for injecting light into the first reflector 320.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the light irradiation device 3 was shown to have a cable portion 30 for guiding light from the light source device 2 and a tip portion 32 connected to the cable portion 30 for irradiating the affected area with light. In this modified example, instead of the light source device 2 and cable portion 30 of the above embodiment, a light source element 7 is arranged inside the gripping portion 31, near the entrance opening 320d of the first reflector 320. For the light source element 7, for example, an LED element can be used.

[0104] The light source element 7 in this modified example has an emission surface 7a. The light generated by the light source element 7 is emitted from the emission surface 7a to the outside of the light source element 7. The emission surface 7a is positioned in the same location as the end face 30c of the cable portion 30 in the embodiment. In other words, the emission surface 7a is positioned perpendicular to the axis of symmetry X1, etc.

[0105] With this configuration, the cable section 30 is unnecessary, making it easier for the operator to operate the light irradiation device 6.

[0106] The embodiments described above are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit its interpretation. Furthermore, the present invention may be modified or improved without departing from its spirit, and it goes without saying that equivalents thereof are included.

[0107] For example, in the above embodiment, the mirror surface 320c of the first reflector 320 is formed by coating the inner circumferential surface 320a with a light-reflecting material, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first reflector 320 itself may be formed using the light-reflecting material described above. The same applies to the second reflector 321.

[0108] ==Summary== As described above, the light irradiation device 3 in the operational form is a light irradiation device 3 having a tip portion 32 for irradiating light onto a diseased area, the tip portion 32 having a hollow shape, a mirror surface 320c provided on its inner circumferential surface 320a, and a first reflector 320 having an inlet 320d for injecting light guided from a light source into the interior and an outlet 320e for emitting light reflected by the mirror surface 320c to the outside, and a cap 322 that closes the outlet 320e, the portion of the cap 322 that closes the outlet 320e being light-transmitting and having a flat shape.

[0109] With this configuration, a planar beam of light can be emitted to the outside over the range of the emission port 320e. By bringing the cap 322 into contact with or close to the affected area and emitting light, the affected area can be cauterized in one go over the range of the emission port 320e. In other words, with this configuration, it becomes possible to easily cauterize a desired area within the body.

[0110] Furthermore, the light irradiation device 3 further includes a second reflector 321, which is positioned inside the first reflector 320 and has a convex surface in the direction from the outlet 320e to the entrance 320d, with a mirror surface 321h provided on the convex surface. The greater the proportion of light incident from the entrance 320d that goes directly to the outlet 320e without being reflected by the mirror surface 320c, the more likely the cap 322 is to heat up locally. With the above configuration, localized heating of the cap 322 can be suppressed by reducing the proportion of light that goes directly to the outlet 320e.

[0111] The inner surface 320a of the first reflector 320 has a shape similar to a part of the surface of a rotationally spheroid that is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry X2, and the entrance port 320d and the exit port 320e are positioned opposite each other in the direction of the axis of symmetry X2. With this configuration, light from the light source passes through the first focal point F1 inside the first reflector 320, and then passes through the second focal point F2. This allows the light from the light source to be focused near the second focal point F2. Therefore, the light irradiation device 3 can efficiently cauterize a desired area within the living body.

[0112] Furthermore, in the light irradiation device 3, the convex surface of the second reflector 321 is rotationally symmetric with respect to the symmetry axis X3. With this configuration, the uniformity of the light emitted from the output port 320e is improved.

[0113] Furthermore, in the light irradiation device 3, the convex surface of the second reflector 321 has a predetermined angle with respect to the axis of symmetry X3. With this configuration, the intensity distribution of the light emitted from the output port 320e can be adjusted according to the angle of the convex surface.

[0114] Furthermore, in the light irradiation device 3, the inner circumferential surface 320a of the first reflector 320 has the same shape as the surface of the half on the side of the entrance port 320d with respect to the center of the ellipsoid. With this configuration, the size of the exit port 320e can be made to the maximum size. This makes it possible to miniaturize the light irradiation device 3.

[0115] In the light irradiation device 3, a small gap d (Figures 3, 6A, 8, 9, and 11) is provided between the second reflector 321 and the cap 322. With this configuration, it is possible to avoid the heat generated by the second reflector 321 being directly transferred to the cap 322, and when the cap 322 comes into contact with a living body, it is possible to avoid the heat generated by the second reflector being transferred to the living body and causing cauterization. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1: Light irradiation system 2: Light source device 3:Light irradiation device 30: Cable section 30a: 1st end 30b: 2nd end 30c: End face 31: Grip part 31a: 1st end 31b: 2nd end 31c: Inner surface 31d: Outer surface 31e: Groove 32:Tip 320: First reflector 320a: Inner surface 320b: Outer surface 320c: Mirror surface 320d: Entrance port 320e: Emission port 320f: Fixed surface 320g: Groove 321: Second reflector 321a: Light shielding part 321b: Support part 321c: Frame 321d: Arm 321e: First fixed surface 321f: Second fixed surface 321g: Third fixed surface 321h: Mirror surface 322: Cap 322a: Inner surface 322b: Outer surface 322c: Side 322d:Top 322e: Fixed surface 322f: Groove 323: The second reflector 323a: Light shielding part 324: Second reflector 324a: Light shielding part 4:Light irradiation device 5:Light irradiation device 6:Light irradiation device 7: Light source element 10: Vaginal cavity 11: Cervix

Claims

1. A light irradiation device having a tip for irradiating light onto the affected area, The aforementioned tip portion is A first reflector having a hollow shape, a first mirror surface provided on its inner circumferential surface, an inlet for allowing light guided from a light source to enter the interior, and an outlet for allowing light reflected from the first mirror surface to be emitted to the outside, A cap that closes the aforementioned outlet, Equipped with, The portion of the cap that closes the outlet is translucent and has a planar shape. The first reflector is further provided with a second reflector, which is disposed within the first reflector and has a convex surface in the direction from the outlet to the inlet, and a second mirror surface is provided on the convex surface. The inner surface of the first reflector has a shape similar to a part of the surface of a rotationally spheroid that is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry. The inlet and outlet are provided at positions opposite to each other in the direction of the axis of symmetry. Light irradiation device.

2. The convex surface of the second reflector is rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry. The light irradiation device according to claim 1.

3. The convex surface of the second reflector has a predetermined angle with respect to the axis of symmetry. The light irradiation device according to claim 2.

4. The inner surface of the first reflector has the same shape as the surface of the half on the entrance side with respect to the center of the ellipsoid. A light irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The light irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a space is provided between the second reflector and the cap so as not to conduct heat generated by the second reflector directly to the cap.

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