Compositional analysis techniques for ultrasonic ablation

Abstract

To provide techniques for estimating composition of a biological sample during an ablation procedure.SOLUTION: Techniques for estimating composition of a biological sample during an ablation procedure are provided. In an example, a composition detector system can include a probe, an illumination source, and a spectrometer. In an example, the probe can extend through a working channel of a viewing scope and can convey mechanical, acoustical, or ultrasonic energy to tissue of a patient to ablate the tissue at a distal end of the probe. A portion of the tissue may be illuminated at the distal end of the probe or as the portion is being evacuated and collected for disposal by the illumination source. The illumination can generate response illumination that can be received by the spectrometer. The spectrometer can analyze the response illumination and provide an estimate of the composition of the portion of tissue.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

【Technical Field】 , , 【0001】 Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 071,208, filed Aug. 27, 2020, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 【0002】 This document relates to ablation techniques for destroying or removing biological tissue and, more specifically, to techniques for analyzing the composition of biological tissue during an ablation procedure. 【Background Art】 【0003】 Medical scopes such as endoscopes and laparoscopes were first developed in the early 1800s and have been used to examine the inside of the body. A medical scope can include a probe having a distal end equipped with tools capable of capturing optical or electronic images, and a proximal end equipped with controls for operating these tools and a device for viewing the images. A shaft can allow signals to pass through and provide connection between the proximal and distal ends of the scope. With some medical scopes, it is possible for a user to pass a tool or treatment down a channel in the shaft, for example, to excise tissue or retrieve an object. 【0004】 Over the past several decades, several advancements have been made in the field of endoscopy and, in particular, with respect to the destruction of physiological stones in the bile duct, urinary tract, kidney, and gallbladder. Physiological stones in these areas are sometimes called calculi, can block ducts, and can cause significant pain to patients. Treatment can include removing or destroying the stones. Different techniques for destroying stones have been developed, including lithotripsy using ultrasound, pneumatic lithotripsy, electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL), and decomposition of stones using green light, YAG, or holmium lasers. 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0005】 Techniques are provided for estimating the composition of biological samples during ablation procedures. [Means for solving the problem] 【0006】 In one example, a composition detector system may include a probe, an illumination source, and a spectrometer. In one example, the probe may extend through a working channel of an observation scope and transmit mechanical, acoustic, or ultrasonic energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at the distal end of the probe. A portion of the tissue may be illuminated by the illumination source at the distal end of the probe, or when the portion is discharged and collected for disposal. The illumination may produce a response illumination that can be received by the spectrometer. The spectrometer may analyze the response illumination and provide an estimate of the composition of the portion of the tissue. 【0007】 This section is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive description of the invention. A more detailed description is included to provide further information about this patent application. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0008】 [Figure 1] This shows an example of a part of the ablation system. [Figure 2] The overall image shows a part of an example of a mechanical ablation system for in-situ composition detection. [Figure 3] This overall diagram shows an example of a mechanical ablation system for in-situ composition detection. [Figure 4] This overall diagram shows an example of a mechanical ablation system for in-situ composition detection. [Figure 5] Examples of mechanical ablation probes that can provide one or more optical paths for use with the ablation systems shown in the examples in Figures 1 to 4 are shown. [Figure 6]Examples of mechanical ablation probes that can provide one or more optical paths for use with the ablation systems shown in the examples in Figures 1 to 4 are shown. [Figure 7] Examples of mechanical ablation probes that can provide one or more optical paths for use with the ablation systems shown in the examples in Figures 1 to 4 are shown. [Figure 8] Examples of mechanical ablation probes that can provide one or more optical paths for use with the ablation systems shown in the examples in Figures 1 to 4 are shown. [Figure 9] This shows part of an example of a mechanical ablation system, including a composition detector configured to sense ablated material in a material management system and to determine compositional information of the sensed ablated material. [Figure 10A] A graph illustrates an example of how a feedback analyzer can determine the size and density of a biological sample. [Figure 10B] A graph illustrates an example of how a feedback analyzer can determine the size and density of a biological sample. [Figure 11] A portion of an example mechanical ablation system is shown. [Figure 12] A portion of an example composition detector configured to change the orientation of ablated material in the discharge path of a discharge system for compositional analysis is shown. [Figure 13] Overall, this provides an example of how to ablate biological samples and analyze them during the ablation procedure and within the system used for the ablation procedure. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0009】 Several devices have been developed that use mechanical energy to break stones into smaller fragments to facilitate their removal from a patient's urinary tract. In some examples, ultrasonic or acoustic frequency energy can be delivered by transmitting it down a rigid shaft and bringing it into contact with the stone. Many procedures use such devices in a system that also includes a medical scope, which allows the shaft to enter a confined area within the patient's body. Such systems may also include a material management system that irrigates a region of interest near the stone and removes the stone fragments once the stone is ablated. Users of ablation devices have recognized that knowing the stone's composition can help provide more efficient treatment. However, conventional techniques require removing part or one of the stones from the patient for analysis outside the ablation system. Such techniques can be time-consuming, and there can be a considerable delay between the time the sample is removed from the system and the time the compositional analysis is completed. Such delays are often weighed against completing the procedure in a more timely but inefficient way without the benefit of compositional information. The inventors have recognized a technique for analyzing and providing compositional information about the stone's composition within the ablation system and as the ablation procedure progresses. These new technologies may include systems with in-situ or near-in-situ analysis capabilities. Such technologies may allow operators of ablation systems to adjust the ablation treatment to match the composition of the stone when it is fragmented. 【0010】 Figure 1 shows an example of a part of the ablation system 100 overall. This system may include an ablation controller 102 and an ablation instrument 103. In some examples, a working lumen or access port of the observation instrument 107 may allow at least a portion of the ablation probe 104 of the ablation instrument 103 to be inserted into the patient's internal structure or region. In some examples, the observation instrument may include an endoscope, laparoscope, or other medical scope. Such a scope may include one or more optical paths, optical sensors, and additional working lumens. An optical path may be used to transmit light to the distal end of the observation instrument, and an optical sensor such as a camera may be used to transmit an image-type signal to an imaging system coupled to the proximal end of the observation instrument. 【0011】 The ablation system 100 may include a mechanical ablation controller 109 and a material management system 130. The mechanical ablation controller may include a mechanical energy source, associated controls, and accessories that provide mechanical energy to, for example, an ablation instrument 103. The mechanical energy source may deliver acoustic energy at one or more acoustic energy frequencies and one or more acoustic energy amplitudes. The acoustic energy may be both sound wave frequencies and ultrasonic frequencies. In some examples, the mechanical energy source may include one or more piezoelectric transducers and mechanical couplings configured to generate acoustic energy at one or more frequencies. 【0012】 The material management system 130 can work in cooperation with the ablation instrument 103 to, for example, irrigate the distal end of the ablation instrument 103, aspirate or drain material from the distal end of the ablation instrument 103, or both. In some examples, the material management system 130 can be part of an endoscopy system. In some examples, the material management system 130 may include a composition detector 145 optionally configured to sample and analyze stone fragments captured by the material management system. 【0013】 The ablation apparatus 103 may include a handle 111 that can be positioned at the proximal end of the ablation probe 104. In some examples, a second handle may be positioned remotely when the ablation procedure is performed by a robot. The handle 111 may include one or more electrical, mechanical, optical, or other interfaces for connection to, for example, a mechanical ablation controller 109 or a material management system 130. The handle 111 may include one or more intermediate attachments, such as one or more triggers or buttons, to activate the supply of mechanical energy to the ablation probe 104. The ablation probe 104 may include a tube 113 for transmitting mechanical energy from, for example, an electromechanical or other transducer of the handle 111 to the distal end of the tube 113. Such an ablation probe may be called an acoustic transmission probe. The ablation probe 104 may also include an optical path 114 for transmitting an optical signal from, for example, the distal end of the tube 113 to a composition detector 145 optionally configured to sample and analyze the stone in situ at the distal end of the ablation probe 104. In some examples, the optical fiber of optical path 114 can be mounted on or integrated with tube 113. The distal end of the ablation probe 104 can be inserted toward the target site to break up stones or biological samples located near the distal end of tube 113, or to apply mechanical energy therapy to them. In some examples, internal channels of tube 113 can provide channels that allow, for example, irrigation of the target area at or near the distal end of tube 113, or aspiration or removal of obstructions or other target tissue fragments from the patient's body. In some examples, a gap formed within the working channel 105 but outside of tube 113 can be used for irrigation of the target area at or near the distal end of tube 113, or aspiration or removal of obstructions or other target tissue fragments from the patient's body.In some cases, a gap formed inside the working channel 105 but outside the tube 113 can be used for complementary material control functions, compared to the internal channel of the tube 113. For example, in some cases, when the internal channel of the tube 113 is used for suction, the gap between the working channel 105 and the outside of the tube 113 can be used for irrigation, and vice versa. 【0014】 Figure 2 shows a portion of an example mechanical ablation system 200 for in-situ composition detection in its entirety. Compared to Figure 1, Figures 2, 3, and 4 show systems specific to sensing and detecting the composition of target tissue at the end of the ablation probes 204, 304, rather than when the target tissue is being discharged for collection, as shown in Figures 9–12. The mechanical ablation system 200 may include an observation instrument 207 such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 206 separate from the observation instrument 207, a mechanical ablation controller 209, an ablation probe 204, a spectrometer 208, and an optional spectral analyzer 210. The observation scope 207 may or may not provide a second light source. The observation instrument 207 may provide a working channel 205 for inserting the ablation probe 204 into the target site. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 209 may provide signals and actions to mechanically ablate a biological specimen 217 located at the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204. It is understood that a transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy can be placed on the ablation probe 204, or between the ablation probe 204 and the actual control circuit of the mechanical ablation controller 209. Light from a first light source 206 can be transmitted to the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204 via one or more optical paths 211 of the ablation probe 204. The light from the first light source 206 can illuminate the area near the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204 containing, for example, a biological specimen 217 such as a stone. The light from the first light source 206 can produce a response illumination that is captured by an optical sensor 212 of the observation instrument 207. In some examples, the optical sensor 212 can be a camera. The signal from the optical sensor 212 can be received by a spectrometer 208, which can provide spectral information about the biological sample 217 at the distal end 219 of the ablation probe 204. In some examples, the spectral information can be displayed to the user, who can adjust the ablation treatment based on the spectral information.In some cases, an optional spectral analyzer 210 can receive spectral information from the spectrometer 208 and provide the user with more specific compositional information. In some cases, the optional spectral analyzer 210 can determine more specific compositional information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 208 and provide closed-loop control of the ablation treatment by automatically modifying the mechanical ablation treatment via the mechanical ablation controller 209. 【0015】 FIG. 3 shows an example mechanical ablation system 300 for in situ composition detection. The mechanical ablation system 300 can include an observation instrument 307 such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 306 separate from the observation instrument 307, a mechanical ablation controller 309, an ablation probe 304, a spectrometer 308, and an optional spectral analyzer 310. The observation scope 307 may or may not provide a second light source. The observation instrument 307 can provide a working channel 305 for inserting the ablation probe 304 into the target site. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 309 can provide signals and actuation to mechanically ablate a biological specimen 317 located at the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304. A transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy can be disposed on the ablation probe 304 or between the ablation probe 304 and the actual control circuit of the mechanical ablation controller 309. Light from the first light source 306 can be transmitted through one or more optical paths 311 of the ablation probe 304 to the distal end of the ablation probe 304. The light from the first light source 306 can illuminate an area near the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304 that includes a biological specimen 317 such as a stone. The light from the first light source 306 can generate a response illumination that can be captured by a second optical path 312 of the ablation probe 304. Optionally, the response illumination can also be captured by an optical sensor 312 of the observation instrument 307. In some examples, the optical sensor 312 can be a camera. In some examples, signals from the optical sensor 312 can be received to provide a visual image to an operator of the mechanical ablation system 300. 【0016】 The response illumination captured by the second optical path 312 can be received by the spectrometer 308, which can provide spectral information about the biological sample 317 at the distal end 319 of the ablation probe 304. In some examples, the spectral information can be displayed to the user, who can adjust the ablation treatment based on the spectral information. In some examples, an optional spectral analyzer 310 can receive spectral information from the spectrometer 308 and provide the user with more specific compositional information. In some examples, an optional spectral analyzer 310 can determine more specific compositional information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 308 and can provide closed-loop control of the ablation treatment by automatically modifying the mechanical ablation treatment via the mechanical ablation controller 309. 【0017】 Figure 4 shows an example of a mechanical ablation system 400 for in-situ composition detection. The mechanical ablation system 400 may include an observation instrument 407 such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a first light source 406, a mechanical ablation controller 409, an ablation probe 404, a spectrometer 408, and an optional spectral analyzer 410. The observation scope 407 may provide a separate optical path 414 from the ablation probe 404. The observation instrument 407 may provide a working channel 405 for inserting the ablation probe 404 into a target site. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 409 may provide a signal and action to mechanically ablate a biological specimen 417 located at the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. It is understood that a transducer for converting the ablation signal into mechanical energy may be placed on the ablation probe 404 or between the ablation probe 404 and the actual control circuit of the mechanical ablation controller 409. Light from the light source 406 can be transmitted to the distal end 419 of the observation instrument 407 via the optical path 414 of the observation instrument 407. The light from the light source 406 can illuminate the area near the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404, which contains, for example, a biological specimen 417 such as a stone. The light from the light source 406 can generate response illumination that can be captured by the optical path 411 of the ablation probe 404. Optionally, the response illumination can be captured by the optical sensor 412 of the observation instrument 407. In some examples, the optical sensor 412 can be a camera. In some examples, the signal from the optical sensor 412 can be received to provide a visual image to the operator of the ablation system 400. 【0018】 The response illumination captured by the optical path 411 of the ablation probe 404 can be received by the spectrometer 408, and the spectrometer 408 can provide spectral information about the biological sample 417 at the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404. In some examples, the spectral information can be displayed to the user, and the user can adjust the ablation treatment based on the spectral information. In some examples, an optional spectral analyzer 410 can receive spectral information from the spectrometer 408 and provide more specific composition information to the user. In some examples, the optional spectral analyzer 410 can determine more specific composition information based on the spectral information received from the spectrometer 408 and automatically modify the mechanical ablation treatment via the mechanical ablation controller 409 to provide closed-loop control of the ablation treatment. 【0019】 In some examples, the light source 406 can include a light-emitting diode (LED). In some examples, the light source 406 can include a plurality of LED illumination sources, and each LED illumination source can provide light of a different color from other LED illumination sources. In some examples, the color operation of the light source 406 can be sequenced to illuminate the area near the distal end 419 of the ablation probe 404 with light that appears as white light. However, this sequencing can be synchronized with the spectrometer 40, and noise for spectral measurements in each narrow range of wavelengths associated with each color can be reduced. In some examples, spectral measurements and determinations can be made faster and more accurately than with a light source that provides random light across the entire visible spectrum. 【0020】 Figures 5–8 show examples of ablation probes that can provide one or more optical paths for use with the ablation systems in the examples of Figures 1–4. In addition to transmitting acoustic energy to fragment the target tissue, the probes also provide optical paths for illuminating the target or collecting response illumination for real-time compositional analysis of the target tissue. The probes in Figures 5–8 can be used with the systems in Figures 9–12, although the real-time compositional analysis feedback in these systems is based on response illumination collected from the discharge path of the material management system. As used herein, “real-time” or “near real-time” refers to a system in which input data (e.g., response illumination) is processed by the system rather than outside the system, and the processed information (e.g., output of compositional analysis) is immediately available as feedback, and any delay between the reception of input and the availability of processed feedback is a delay generated by the system equipment. 【0021】 Figure 5 shows a diagram of the distal end of one example of an ablation probe 504 that can be used in conjunction with one or more of the systems of the examples in Figures 1-4. The ablation probe 504 may include, for example, a metal or other rigid tube 513 for delivering mechanical ablation energy from an electromechanical or other transducer to the distal end of the ablation probe 504 or a biological specimen near it. Flexible or semi-rigid tubes can also be used to navigate winding paths to the destination, but rigid tubes, while less maneuverable, transmit mechanical ablation energy much more efficiently and with less loss than semi-rigid or flexible tubes. Mechanical ablation of a biological specimen such as a kidney stone may involve positioning the distal end of the tube 513 against the target stone and mechanically vibrating or oscillating the tube 513. The tube 513 may include, for example, one or more holes 520 or passages within the side wall of the tube 513 that run longitudinally or lengthwise along the tube 513. Figure 5 shows two holes 520a and 520b in the side wall of tube 513, but tube 513 may contain one or more additional optional holes 520. One or more optical fibers 521 can be positioned to extend into one of each of the side wall holes 520a and 520b. One or more optical fibers can be used to transmit light between the ends of tube 513, for example, to transmit light to illuminate the distal end of the ablation probe 504, or to transmit response illumination to the proximal end of the probe 504. 【0022】 In addition to providing a transmission mechanism for delivering mechanical energy to a target, the tube 513 can provide a central or other longitudinal lumen for, for example, irrigating or draining a region near the distal end of the probe 504. One or more groups or bundles of optical fibers 521 can extend longitudinally through the wall of the tube 513, for example at different circumferential or peripheral locations, or offset by at least 5 degrees or more around a periphery defined by the tube. In some examples, the tube 513 can be hollow to define an internal channel that can be used to irrigate, drain, or aspirate material near the distal end of the probe 504. 【0023】 Figure 6 shows a diagram of the distal end of a partial example of an ablation probe 604 that can be used together with one or more of the example systems in Figures 1-4. The ablation probe 604 may include a metal or other rigid tube 613 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to an obstacle or other target located near or at the distal end of the ablation probe 604 in Figure 6. One or more optical fibers 621 may extend within or along the tube 613 so that they can be used to apply laser energy to the obstacle. For example, the optical fibers 621 may be held against the outer surface of the tube 613 by a layer of material, cover material, or binding material 622, such as, for example, heat shrink or other shrink packaging type material. For example, the gap between the cover material and the outer surface of the tube 613 near the optical fibers 621 may be filled with surgical-grade silicone or other sealant 623. One or more groups or bundles of optical fibers 621 may extend longitudinally along the outside of the tube 613, for example at different circumferential or peripheral locations, or offset by at least 5 degrees around the outside of the tube. In some examples, tube 613 can be hollowed out to define an internal channel that can also be used to irrigate, drain, or aspirate material near the distal end of probe 604. 【0024】 Figure 7 shows a distal end diagram of a partial example of an ablation probe 704 that can be used together with one or more of the example systems in Figures 1-4. The ablation probe 704 may include a metal or other rigid tube 713 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to, for example, an obstacle or other target. One or more optical fibers 721 may extend along the tube 713 so that they can be used to apply laser energy to an obstacle or other target located at or near the distal end of the probe 704. Bundles or other arrangements of optical fibers 721 may be held against the outer surface of the tube 713 with, for example, a cover or binding material such as a heat shrink or other shrink packaging material. Near the distal end of the tube 713, the optical fibers 721 may follow a recess on the outside of the tube 713 and transition to a hole 720 in the side wall of the tube 713, which can provide a passage for the optical fibers 721 to the termination of the hole 720 at the distal end of the tube 713 via an entrance. For example, the gap between the cover material and the outer surface of the tube 713 near the optical fiber 721 can be filled with surgical-grade silicone or other sealant. One or more groups or bundles of optical fibers 721 may extend along the outside of the tube 713 before migrating through inlets to corresponding holes that provide passages within the sidewall of the tube 713. Such additional inlets may be angularly offset from other inlets by more than 5 degrees with respect to the centerline of the tube 713. In some examples, the tube 713 may be hollow to define an internal channel that can also be used to irrigate, drain, or aspirate material near the distal end of the probe 704. 【0025】 Figure 8 shows a distal end diagram of a partial example of an ablation probe 804 that can be used together with one or more of the systems of the examples in Figures 1-4. The ablation probe 804 may include a metal or rigid tube 813 for delivering mechanical ablation energy to an obstacle, for example. One or more optical fibers 821 may extend along the tube 813 so that they can be used to apply laser energy to an obstacle or other target. The tube 813 may include one or more recessed channels 823 on and along its outer surface for carrying, for example, one or more optical fibers 821. The optical fibers 821 may be held within the channels of the tube 813 by a cover or binding material, such as a heat-shrinkable or other shrinkable packaging material. For example, the gap between the cover material and the outer surface of the tube 813 near the optical fibers 821 may be filled with surgical-grade silicone or other sealant. The multimodality probe 804 may include more or fewer bundles of optical fibers 821 than those shown in Figure 8. 【0026】 Figure 9 shows part of an example mechanical ablation system 900, which includes a composition detector 945 configured to sense ablated material in a material management system 930 and to determine compositional information of the sensed ablated material. Part of the example mechanical ablation system 900 may include part of a material management system 930, an ablation probe 904, a light source 906, an optical detector 912, a feedback analyzer 910, and a mechanical ablation controller 909. 【0027】 A mechanical ablation controller 909 can be used to generate and modulate a signal for generating mechanical ablation energy. In some examples, the mechanical ablation controller 909 may include a transducer for generating mechanical ablation energy. In some examples, the transducer may be located in the ablation probe 904 or on the handle 911 of the ablation probe. It is understood that the ablation probe 904 may extend through the lumen of an observation instrument in some examples, such as those shown in Figures 1 to 4. The material management system 930 may include a discharge route 931 for removing the irrigated and ablated biological material from the distal end of the ablation probe 904. In some examples, the discharge route 931 may terminate in a collection system so that the ablated material and other materials can be properly contained and disposed of. 【0028】 The discharge path 931 may include an optically transparent portion 932. The light source 906 can be positioned so that light can pass through the optically transparent portion 932 of the discharge path 931. The optical sensor 912 can be positioned on the opposite side of the transparent portion 932 from the light source 906 and may have a sensing surface focused toward the light source 906. As the ablated material 922 passes through the transparent portion 932, the optical sensor 912 can collect information about the composition of the ablated material 922. The feedback analyzer 910 can receive a signal from the optical sensor 912 and analyze the signal for the detected compositional properties of the ablated material 922. Compositional properties may include, but are not limited to, size, density, chemical composition, shape, or a combination thereof. Detection of each compositional property may depend on the sophistication of the light source 906 and the optical sensor 912. Figures 10A and 10B show an example of how the feedback analyzer can determine size and density. Figures 10A and 10B show intensity signals provided by the optical sensor as the sensor detects two pieces of ablated material passing through an exhaust path between the light source and the optical sensor. Each piece of material is detected by a decrease or drop in the intensity of light received from the light source. The relative size 1090 of each piece can be detected by comparing the temporal length of each drop. In some examples, the system may include flow rate information provided by either an evaluation system or a dedicated sensor. The flow rate information can help provide a measured size 1010 for each piece. In some examples, the optical sensor may include an array of light sensors so that images can be captured and analyzed to provide size information. The fragment shown in Figure 10B does not have as large a drop as the one shown in Figure 10A. The difference in depth of the drops may indicate that the ablated fragment detected in Figure 10A is denser than the ablated fragment detected in Figure 10B. In some examples, the combination of fragment intensity levels and sizes can be used to estimate the absolute density or hardness of the current ablated material.As will be discussed below, such estimations can then be used to provide real-time feedback to the mechanical ablation controller. Based on this feedback, the parameters of the mechanical ablation controller can be adjusted so that the current treatment can be applied more efficiently, or as efficiently as the mechanical ablation controller can apply the treatment. The parameters of the mechanical ablation controller that can be adjusted include, but are not limited to, the drive signal shape (e.g., sine wave, square wave, sawtooth wave, etc.), frequency (e.g., fixed or continuous sweep), amplitude (e.g., fixed or continuous sweep), pulse width and pulse frequency, or combinations thereof. 【0029】 Referring again to Figure 9, in some examples, the optical sensor 912 may provide or actually function as a spectrometer. In some examples, the optical sensor 912 may be able to measure the flow velocity as the edge of the stone fragment 922 moves through the field of view of the optical sensor 912. In some examples, the analyzer may be able to estimate the mass or volume of the ablated stone 917 by integrating the size of the stone fragment 922 over a period of time. In some examples, the detection information from the optical sensor 912, the analysis information from the feedback analyzer 910, or a combination of the detection information from the optical sensor 912 and the analysis information from the feedback analyzer 910 may be passed to an artificial intelligence application or machine learning application, such as a cloud 935-based application, for further processing. In such applications, the ongoing treatment can be further refined for more efficient treatment by combining not only historical treatment information from the local treatment site, but also other treatment information from regional, national, or global treatment sites. 【0030】 Figure 11 shows part of an example mechanical ablation system 1100. The system 1100 is shown to ablate a stone-like biological material 1117 via mechanical ablation and to discharge the stone fragments 1122 via an discharge pathway 1131 which may include a tube and handle for an ablation probe 1104. Part of the system 1100 may include a composition detector 1145 configured to sense the ablated material or stone fragments 1122 in the discharge pathway 1131 of a material management system 1130 and to determine the composition information of the stone fragments 1122. The system may also include an ablation instrument 1103 and an ablation controller 1109. The ablation instrument 1103 may include an ablation probe 1104 and handle 1111 as described above with respect to the example in Figure 1. It is understood that the ablation probe 1104 may extend through the lumen of an observation instrument in some examples, such as those shown in Figures 1 to 4. The drainage pathway 1131 may be part of a drainage system used to irrigate and remove ablated material, such as stone fragments 1122, from the patient. The drainage pathway 1131 may include a transparent section 1132 to facilitate the detection of the composition of the stone fragments 1122. 【0031】 The composition detector 1145 can generally be positioned along the drainage path 1131 between the ablation instrument 1103 and the local termination of the drainage path 1131. Such a local termination may include a collection system or vacuum source for the drainage path 1131. The composition detector 1145 may include a light source 1106 and an optical sensor system 1112. The optical sensor system 1112 can detect the stone fragment 1122 and analyze the optical response of the stone fragment 1122 to derive compositional information for presentation to the ablation system operator or for adjusting the treatment of the ablation controller 1109. In some examples, the optical response may include light from the light source reflected by the stone fragment 1122. In some examples, the optical response may be fluorescence produced by the stone fragment 1122 in response to light from the light source 1106. In some examples, the sophistication of the optical sensor system 1112 can determine the compositional information provided by the composition detector 1145. For example, a less sophisticated optical sensor system 1112 may provide the size or shape of the calculus fragment 1122. A more sophisticated optical sensor system 1112 may also provide details of the color and surface texture of the calculus fragment 1122. As the sophistication of the optical sensor system increases, additional compositional aspects of the calculus fragment 1122 can be determined, enabling more sophisticated and timely feedback control of the ablation treatment. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1112 may include a spectrometer or spectral analyzer 1110 so that near real-time feedback of the composition of the calculus fragment 1122 can be determined and used to adjust the ablation treatment to help provide a more efficient treatment. Such near real-time feedback may include an estimate of hardness, which can have a significant impact on adjusting the ablation energy for efficient delivery of the ablation treatment. 【0032】 In some cases, the optical sensor system 1112 can provide the electronic medical record system 1136 with details about the ablated stone fragments 1122. Such details can be used to ensure an accurate history of the patient, as well as for the study and improvement of the composition estimation provided by the composition detector 1145. 【0033】 Figure 12 shows a portion of an example composition detector 1245 configured to divert the ablated material 1222 away from the discharge path 1231 of the discharge system and to determine the composition information of the ablated material 1222. In some examples, though not limited thereto, the illustrated composition detector 1245 may be used as illustrated and described below, or may be part of a larger system such as the mechanical ablation system in Figure 11 or Figure 1, or may be in an ablation system using another ablation modality such as a laser ablation system. In some examples, the composition detector 1245 may include a flow control actuator 1241, an optical sensor system 1212, a light source 1206, and an optional collection chamber 1250. In some examples, the flow control actuator 1241 can be used in conjunction with an upstream sensor and controller to regulate the flow velocity in the discharge path 1231. In such examples, the actuator 1241 may slow down or stop the flow, allowing the optical sensor system 1212 to collect image information of calculus fragments 1222, such as calculus fragments sensed upstream by the upstream sensor. In such applications, the composition detector 1245 does not need to include the collection chamber 1250. 【0034】 In some examples, the composition detector 1245 includes a collection chamber 1250 so that a flow actuator 1241 can capture stone fragments 1222 and move the captured fragments to the collection chamber 1250. In some examples, the collected fragments 1222 can be removed from the collection chamber 1250 for analysis outside the system. In some systems, once the fragments enter the collection chamber 1250, an optical sensor system 1212 can collect illumination responses from the collected fragments 1222 to generate composition information. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 may include a spectrometer or extract spectral information from signals provided by the optical sensors of the optical sensor system 1212. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 may include an analyzer 1210 to receive spectral information and generate an estimate of the chemical or material composition of the stone fragments 1222. In some examples, the analyzer may provide an estimate of the hardness of the stone fragments 1222. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 may provide control signals to an ablation controller to provide closed-loop control of the ablation treatment. In some examples, the optical sensor system 1212 can provide raw or analyzed data to a telemedicine system, a remote or cloud-based artificial intelligence system, a remote or cloud-based machine learning system, or a combination thereof. 【0035】 Figure 13 shows an example of a method 1300 for ablating a biological sample and analyzing the biological sample during the ablation procedure and within the system used for the ablation procedure. In 1301, a stone-like biological sample can be mechanically or acoustically processed via the ablation probe of the ablation system. In some examples, the biological sample may be located within the patient, and the ablation probe can be extended into the patient through the working channel of an observation scope instrument. In 1303, at least a portion of the biological sample can be illuminated by an illumination source. In 1305, an optical response signal can be acquired by an optical sensor in response to the illumination of at least a portion of the sample. In 1307, spectral information of the optical response signal can be analyzed at a location in the patient during the same medical procedure as the treatment to determine an index of the composition of at least a portion of the sample. In some examples, illumination and analysis of the biological sample can be performed while the biological sample is being ablated within the patient. In some examples, illumination and analysis of the biological sample can be performed when the biological sample has been discharged from the patient, or immediately after the biological sample has been discharged from the patient but is still in the discharge route of a material management system. A material management system can be used to irrigate the ablation area, and the ablated material and irrigation material can be discharged, collected, and disposed of. In some cases, the ablation treatment can be tailored using estimations of the composition of the biological sample. 【0036】 Examples and notes In the first example, Example 1, a combined system for both analyzing a biological sample at a location in a patient during a medical procedure and processing a biological sample at the same location in a patient during the same medical procedure may include: an acoustic transmission probe, which extends through a working channel of an observation scope instrument and is configured to acoustically process a biological sample within a patient at the distal end of the probe; an illumination optical path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample; a response optical path configured to acquire an optical response signal from at least a portion of the biological sample in response to the illumination; and a spectrometer configured to analyze spectral information of the optical response signal at a location in a patient during the same medical procedure as processing to determine an index of the composition of at least a portion of the sample. 【0037】 In Example 2, the subject of Example 1 is configured such that the illumination path transmits light toward the distal end of the probe. 【0038】 In Example 3, any one of the subjects in Examples 1-2 may optionally further include the extension of an illumination light path along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope instrument. 【0039】 In Example 4, any one of the subjects in Examples 1-3 may optionally further include an observation scope device, which includes an illumination light path. 【0040】 In Example 5, any one subject from Examples 1-4 may optionally further include the observation instrument including a camera configured to detect an optical response signal for transmission to a spectrometer. 【0041】 In Example 6, any one subject from Examples 1-5 may optionally further include an efflux pathway extending from the distal end of the probe and containing a channel in the probe, the efflux pathway being configured to efflux at least a portion of the biological sample away from the distal end of the probe. 【0042】 In Example 7, any one subject from Examples 1-6 may optionally further include the fact that the efflux pathway is accessed by an illumination light path and a response light path, making it possible to illuminate, obtain an optical response, and analyze at least a portion of the biological sample while at least a portion of the biological sample is located in the efflux pathway. 【0043】 In Example 8, any one subject from Examples 1-7 may optionally further include a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of a biological sample from an efflux pathway, the receptacle being accessed by an illumination path and a response path, enabling illumination, acquisition of an optical response, and analysis of at least a portion of the biological sample while at least a portion of the sample is located at the receptacle. 【0044】 In Example 9, any one subject from Examples 1 to 8 may optionally further include the fact that at least one or both of the illumination path or the response optical path are coupled to at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion. 【0045】 In Example 10, any one of the subjects in Examples 1-9 may optionally further include the fact that the spectrometer is configured to receive an optical response signal through a transparent portion. 【0046】 In Example 11, any one subject from Examples 1 to 10 may optionally further include a controller circuit configured to perform at least one of establishing or adjusting elimination parameters in response to information including an index of at least some of the composition of a biological sample that has been analyzed. 【0047】 In Example 12, any one subject from Examples 1 to 11 may optionally further include a controller circuit configured to establish or adjust acoustic processing parameters in response to information including an index of at least some of the composition of a biological sample that has been analyzed. 【0048】 Example 13 is a method for both analyzing a biological sample in a patient's location during a medical procedure and processing a biological sample in a patient's location during the same medical procedure, the method comprising the steps of acoustically processing a biological sample in a patient via an acoustic transmission probe extending into the patient through a working channel of an observation scope instrument; illuminating at least a portion of the sample; obtaining an optical response signal in response to the illumination; and analyzing spectral information of the optical response signal in a patient's location during the same medical procedure as the processing to determine an index of the composition of at least a portion of the sample. 【0049】 In Example 14, the subject of Example 13 may optionally further include the step of illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample via a first optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope instrument. 【0050】 In Example 15, any one subject from Examples 13–14 may optionally further include the step of acquiring an optical response signal, which includes transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via the camera of the observation scope instrument. 【0051】 In Example 16, any one subject from Examples 13–15 may optionally further include the step of acquiring an optical response signal, which includes transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a second optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope instrument. 【0052】 In Example 17, any one subject from Examples 13–16 may optionally further include the step of draining at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe toward a local collection receptacle via an drainage pathway that includes at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe, and the steps of illuminating, obtaining an optical response, and analyzing are performed on at least a portion of the sample while at least a portion of the sample is located toward the local collection receptacle. 【0053】 In Example 18, any one subject from Examples 13–17 may optionally further include the step of draining at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe via an drainage pathway that includes at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe, and the steps of illuminating, obtaining an optical response, and analyzing are performed while at least a portion of the biological sample is being drained along the drainage pathway. 【0054】 In Example 19, any one subject from Examples 13–18 may optionally further include at least one or both of the illuminating step or the step of obtaining an optical response being performed through at least one optically transparent portion positioned along the discharge path. 【0055】 In Example 20, any one subject from Examples 13–19 may optionally further include the step of establishing or adjusting elimination parameters in response to information including an index of at least some of the composition of a biological sample that has been analyzed. 【0056】 In Example 21, any one subject from Examples 13–20 may optionally further include the step of establishing or adjusting acoustic processing parameters in response to information including an index of at least some of the composition of a biological sample that has been analyzed. 【0057】 Example 22 is an ablation instrument for ablating tissue at the distal end of a probe, the ablation instrument comprising: a probe having a distal end, the distal end configured to extend through a working channel of an observation instrument; an evacuation path configured to allow a portion of ablated tissue to pass through, the first portion of which includes the probe; and a target identification system configured to optically sense a portion of ablated tissue within the evacuation path, measure an aspect of the portion thereof, and provide a first signal representing that aspect. 【0058】 In Example 23, the subject of Example 22 may optionally further include an optically transparent portion positioned between the proximal end of the probe and the collection system. 【0059】 In Example 24, any one of the subjects in Examples 22-23 may optionally further include a target identification system that includes an illumination source directed towards the optically transparent portion. 【0060】 In Example 25, the subject of any one of Examples 22-24 may optionally further include that the target identification system includes an optical sensor positioned opposite the illumination source to the transparent portion, the optical sensor being configured to generate a first signal. 【0061】 In Example 26, any one subject from Examples 22–25 may optionally further include a target identification system comprising a spectrometer configured to receive responsive illumination from an optically transparent portion and to generate a first signal. 【0062】 In Example 27, any one subject from Examples 22–26 may optionally further include a flow control configured to receive a first signal and to modify the flow of a portion of the ablated tissue in response to the first signal. 【0063】 In Example 28, any one of the themes in Examples 22–27 may optionally further include the fact that the flow control is configured to capture a portion of the sample as a specimen within a specimen chamber coupled with a discharge pathway. 【0064】 Example 29 is a method for ablating tissue, comprising the steps of: applying energy to the tissue through the distal end of an ablation probe; discharging a portion of the ablated tissue through an evacuation pathway, the evacuation pathway comprising a channel of the ablation probe; optically sensing a portion of the ablated tissue as it moves through the evacuation pathway; measuring an aspect of the portion; and providing a first signal representing that aspect. 【0065】 In Example 30, the subject of Example 29 may optionally further include the step of receiving a first signal on a monitor and displaying its characteristics. 【0066】 In Example 31, any one subject from Examples 29-30 may optionally further include a step of applying energy, which includes a step of applying mechanical ablation energy to tissue, and the method may optionally further include a step of receiving a first signal at a mechanical ablation energy source and adjusting the characteristics of the mechanical ablation energy based on the first signal. 【0067】 In Example 32, any one subject from Examples 29 to 31 may optionally further include the step of optically sensing a portion of it, which includes directing illumination through the optically transparent portion of the discharge path. 【0068】 In Example 33, any one subject from Examples 29 to 32 may optionally further include the step of optically sensing a portion of the optical sensor by directing illumination through the optically transparent portion of the discharge path. 【0069】 In Example 34, any one subject from Examples 29 to 33 may optionally further include a step of measuring the light intensity of the illumination with an optical sensor. 【0070】 In Example 35, any one of the subjects from Examples 29 to 34 may optionally further include the fact that the first signal is based on the light intensity of the illumination. 【0071】 In Example 36, any one subject from Examples 29–35 may optionally further include a step in which the optical sensing step includes receiving response illumination from the transparent portion of the emission path with a spectrometer. 【0072】 In Example 37, any one subject from Examples 29 to 36 may optionally further include a step of measuring spectral information of the response illumination. 【0073】 In Example 38, any one of the themes from Examples 29-37 may optionally further include the fact that the first signal is based on spectral information. 【0074】 In Example 39, any one subject from Examples 29–38 may optionally further include a step of regulating the flow of ablated tissue through the drainage pathway in response to a first signal. 【0075】 In Example 40, any one of the subjects from Examples 29–39 may optionally further include a step of capturing a portion in a specimen chamber coupled to the discharge pathway, which is part of the flow regulation step. 【0076】 Example 41 is a device for sensing ablation material, which includes an evacuation path configured to pass irrigation and ablation material from an ablation probe to a collection system; a light source configured to illuminate the irrigation and ablation material in the evacuation path; an optical sensor focused toward the evacuation path; and a controller configured to receive a first signal from the optical sensor and to provide measurement information about the ablation material based on the signal. 【0077】 In Example 42, the subject of Example 41 may optionally further include a flow control actuator configured to divert the flow of ablation material in the discharge path. 【0078】 In Example 43, any one subject from Examples 41-42 may optionally further include a sample reservoir coupled to the discharge path, the sample reservoir being configured to receive a sample of ablation material in response to a flow control actuator diverting the flow of ablation material. 【0079】 In Example 44, any one of the subjects in Examples 41-43 may optionally further include the fact that the optical sensor includes a spectrometer. 【0080】 In Example 45, any one subject from Examples 41-44 may optionally further include the configuration that the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing measurement information to the ultrasonic ablation energy source. 【0081】 In Example 46, any one subject from Examples 41-45 may optionally further include the configuration that the controller is configured to provide a second signal representing measurement information to the laser ablation energy source. 【0082】 Example 47 is a composition identification system comprising: a probe configured to extend through a working channel of an observation scope and to transmit mechanical energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at the distal end of the probe; an illumination source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue; and a spectrometer configured to receive responsive illumination from at least a portion of the tissue and to provide composition information about at least a portion of the tissue. 【0083】 In Example 48, the subject of Example 47 may optionally further include a first optical medium configured to transmit light from an illumination source to the distal end of the probe. 【0084】 In Example 49, any one of the subjects in Examples 47–48 may optionally further include the first optical medium extending through the working channel together with the probe. 【0085】 In Example 50, any one subject from Examples 47-49 may optionally further include an observation instrument, the observation instrument including a first optical medium. 【0086】 In Example 51, any one subject from Examples 47–50 may optionally further include the inclusion of a camera configured to receive response illumination and transmit the response illumination to a spectrometer via a first signal. 【0087】 In Example 52, any one subject from Examples 47–51 may optionally further include a second optical medium configured to extend through a working channel together with the probe, the second optical medium configured to transmit the illumination response to the spectrometer. 【0088】 In Example 53, any one subject from Examples 47–52 may optionally further include an discharge route configured to discharge at least a portion of the tissue toward a collection system, the discharge route including a channel for the probe. 【0089】 In Example 54, any one subject from Examples 47–53 may optionally further include the fact that the discharge path includes an optically transparent portion positioned between the probe and the collection system. 【0090】 In Example 55, any one of the subjects in Examples 47–54 may optionally further include the fact that the illuminator is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue in a transparent area. 【0091】 In Example 56, any one of the subjects in Examples 47–55 may optionally further include the fact that the spectrometer is configured to receive responsive illumination in a transparent portion. 【0092】 In Example 57, any one subject from Examples 47–56 may optionally further include flow control configured to alter the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer. 【0093】 In Example 58, any one of the themes in Examples 47–57 may optionally further include the fact that the flow control is configured to capture a portion of the sample as a specimen within a specimen chamber coupled with a discharge pathway. 【0094】 Example 59 is a method for operating a composition identification system, the method comprising the steps of mechanically ablating tissue via a probe extending through a working channel of an observation instrument; illuminating at least a portion of the tissue to provide response illumination; and generating a first signal based on the response illumination, the first signal comprising spectral analysis information about the composition of at least a portion of the tissue. 【0095】 In Example 60, the subject of Example 59 may optionally further include the step of illuminating at least a portion of the tissue through a first optical medium extending together with the probe through a working channel. 【0096】 In Example 61, any one subject from Examples 59–60 may optionally further include a step of relaying the illumination response to a spectrometer via the camera of the observation instrument in the step of generating the first signal. 【0097】 In Example 62, any one subject from Examples 59–61 may optionally further include a step in which the step of generating a first signal includes a step of receiving response illumination in a spectrometer via a second optical medium extending together with the probe through a working channel. 【0098】 In Example 63, any one subject from Examples 59–62 may optionally further include the step of discharging at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe toward a collection system via an evacuation pathway, the evacuation pathway including a channel in the probe. 【0099】 In Example 64, any one subject from Examples 59–63 may optionally further include a step of illuminating at least a portion of the tissue through an optically transparent portion of the discharge path, wherein the optically transparent portion is located between the path and the proximal end of the collection system. 【0100】 In Example 65, any one subject from Examples 59 to 64 may optionally further include a step of receiving the illumination response in a spectrometer positioned adjacent to the transparent portion, in which the step of generating a first signal based on response illumination is to include a step of receiving the illumination response in a spectrometer positioned adjacent to the transparent portion. 【0101】 In Example 66, any one subject from Examples 59–65 may optionally further include the step of altering the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a second signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer. 【0102】 In Example 67, any one subject from Examples 59–66 may optionally further include the step of capturing at least a portion of the tissue as a specimen in a specimen chamber coupled with an efflux pathway. 【0103】 In Example 68, a system for analyzing and processing a biological sample may include an acoustic transmission probe that performs acoustic processing on the biological sample, wherein the biological sample is located in the patient at the distal end of the probe, and an evacuation system configured to evacuate multiple portions of the biological sample from a region near the distal end of the probe, wherein the multiple portions are fragmented from the biological sample in response to the acoustic processing. The evacuation system may include an evacuation path configured to move the multiple portions to a terminal collection system, and a specimen chamber configured to divert a first portion of the multiple portions away from the evacuation path to provide a specimen of the biological sample. 【0104】 In Example 69, the system of Example 68 may optionally further include an illumination source configured to illuminate the specimens in the specimen chamber. 【0105】 In Example 70, any one of the systems in Examples 68–69 may optionally include an optical sensor system configured to generate spectral information based on response illumination received from a specimen in response to illumination provided by an illumination source. 【0106】 In Example 71, one of the systems from Examples 68-70 is optionally a spectrometer configured to provide spectral information of a sample. 【0107】 In Example 72, one or more systems from Examples 68-71 optionally include a controller configured to receive spectral information and drive an acoustic transmission probe, the controller further configured to adjust parameters for driving the acoustic transmission probe in response to the spectral information. 【0108】 Example 73 is at least one machine-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by a processing circuit, cause the processing circuit to perform an action that implements any of Examples 1 to 72. 【0109】 Example 74 is a device that includes means for implementing any of Examples 1 to 72. 【0110】 Example 75 is a system that implements one of Examples 1 through 72. 【0111】 Example 76 is a way to implement any of Examples 1 through 72. 【0112】 The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the detailed description. The drawings illustrate specific embodiments that can put the invention into practice. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples may include several elements in addition to those illustrated or described. However, the inventors also consider examples in which only these illustrated or described elements are provided. Furthermore, the inventors also consider examples using any combination or substitution of these illustrated or described elements (or one or more embodiments thereof) with respect to a particular example (or one or more embodiments thereof) or to other examples (or one or more embodiments thereof) illustrated or described herein. 【0113】 In the event of any inconsistency in usage between this book and any other reference incorporated in this manner, the usage in this book shall prevail. 【0114】 In this publication, the terms “a” or “an” are used to include one or more, independently of any other examples or uses of “at least one” or “one or more,” as is common in patent literature. In this publication, the term “or” means non-exclusive unless otherwise indicated, or “A or B” is used to include “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B.” In this publication, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as plain English synonyms for the terms “comprising” and “wherein,” respectively. Also, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, meaning that a system, apparatus, article, composition, formula, or process that includes several elements in addition to those listed after such terms is still considered to fall within the scope of the subject matter discussed. Furthermore, terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third,” as they may appear in claims, are used merely as symbols and are not intended to impose any numbering requirements on these items. 【0115】 The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above examples (or one or more embodiments thereof) can be used in combination with one another. Other embodiments can be used, for example, by a person skilled in the art who has considered the above description. The abstract is provided so that the reader may quickly confirm the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above detailed description, various features can be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as meaning that any disclosed feature not claimed is essential to any claim. Rather, the subject matter of the invention is never found in all the features of a particular disclosed embodiment. The following embodiments are incorporated herein as examples or embodiments, and each embodiment is valid in itself as a separate embodiment, and such embodiments can be combined with one another in various combinations or substitutions. 【0116】 [Additional notes] [Additional note 1] A system for analyzing and processing biological samples within a patient, An acoustic transmission probe, which extends through the working channel of an observation scope instrument and is configured to acoustically process the biological sample at the distal end of the probe, An illumination light path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample, A response optical path configured to acquire an optical response signal from at least a portion of the biological sample in response to the illumination, A spectrometer configured to analyze spectral information of the optical response signal to determine an index of at least a portion of the composition of the sample, including, system. [Additional note 2] The illumination light path is configured to transmit light toward the distal end of the probe. The system described in Appendix 1. [Additional note 3] The illumination light path extends along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope device. The system described in Appendix 2. [Additional note 4] The probe further includes a discharge pathway extending from the distal end of the probe and including a channel of the probe, wherein the discharge pathway is configured to discharge at least a portion of the biological sample away from the distal end of the probe. The system described in Appendix 2. [Additional note 5] The discharge path is accessed by the illumination light path and the response light path, so that the illumination, acquisition of the optical response, and analysis of the biological sample can be performed on the biological sample, while the biological sample is located in the discharge path. The system described in Appendix 4. [Additional note 6] The system further includes a receptacle configured to receive the at least portion of the biological sample from the efflux pathway, the receptacle being accessed by the illumination path and the response path, enabling the illumination, acquisition of the optical response, and analysis of the at least portion of the biological sample while the at least portion of the sample is located at the receptacle. The system described in Appendix 4. [Additional note 7] The controller circuit further includes, configured to establish or adjust elimination parameters in response to information including the index of the composition of at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, The system described in Appendix 4. [Additional note 8] The observation scope device further includes the observation scope device, and the observation scope device includes the illumination light path. The system described in Appendix 1. [Additional note 9] The observation device includes a camera configured to detect the optical response signal for transmission to the spectrometer. The system described in Appendix 8. [Additional Note 10] At least one or both of the illumination path or the response optical path are coupled to at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion. The system described in Appendix 1. [Additional Note 11] The spectrometer is configured to receive the optical response signal through the transparent portion. The system described in Appendix 10. [Additional Note 12] The controller circuit further includes, configured to establish or adjust acoustic processing parameters in response to information including the index of the composition of at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, The system described in Appendix 1. [Additional Note 13] Ablation devices for ablating tissue, A probe having a distal end, wherein the distal end is positioned close to the tissue and is configured to extend through a working channel of an observation instrument, An exhaust pathway configured to allow a portion of the ablated tissue to pass through, wherein a first portion of the exhaust pathway includes the probe, A target identification system configured to optically sense a portion of the ablated tissue within the discharge pathway, measure the characteristics of the portion, and provide a first signal representing the characteristics, including, Ablation device. [Additional Note 14] The discharge path includes an optically transparent portion positioned between the proximal end of the probe and the collection system. Ablation device as described in Appendix 13. [Additional Note 15] The target identification system includes an illumination source directed towards the optically transparent portion, The target identification system includes an optical sensor positioned opposite the illumination source relative to the transparent portion, The optical sensor is configured to generate the first signal. Ablation device as described in Appendix 14. [Additional Note 16] The target identification system includes a spectrometer configured to receive response illumination from the optically transparent portion and to generate the first signal. Ablation device as described in Appendix 14. [Additional Note 17] The ablation device further includes flow control, The aforementioned flow control is, To receive the first signal and to change the flow of the portion of the ablated tissue in response to the first signal, A portion of the sample is captured as a specimen within a specimen chamber connected to the aforementioned discharge pathway. It is structured in such a way. Ablation device as described in Appendix 13. [Additional Note 18] A device for sensing ablation material, A discharge path configured to pass the irrigation and ablation material from the ablation probe to the collection system, A light source configured to illuminate the irrigation and ablation material in the discharge path, An optical sensor focused toward the aforementioned discharge path, A controller configured to receive a first signal from the optical sensor and provide measurement information about the ablation material based on the signal, including, Device. [Additional Note 19] A flow control actuator configured to divert the flow of the ablation material within the discharge path, A sample reservoir coupled to the discharge path and configured to receive a sample of the ablation material in response to the flow control actuator diverting the flow of the ablation material, Further including, The apparatus described in Appendix 18. [Additional Note 20] The controller is configured to provide a second signal representing the measurement information to at least one of an ultrasonic ablation energy source or a laser ablation energy source. The apparatus described in Appendix 18. [Additional Note 21] Methods of both analyzing a biological sample at a location in a patient during a medical procedure, and processing the biological sample at the same location in the patient during the same medical procedure, The steps include: acoustically processing the biological sample within the patient via an acoustic transmission probe that extends into the patient through a working channel of an observation scope instrument; The steps include illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample, A step of acquiring an optical response signal in response to the step of illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample, A step of analyzing spectral information of the optical response signal at a location in the patient during the same medical procedure as described above, to determine an index of at least a portion of the composition of the biological sample, including, method. [Additional note 22] The step of illuminating at least a portion of the biological sample includes illuminating the at least a portion of the biological sample via a first optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope instrument, The method described in Appendix 21. [Additional Note 23] The step of acquiring the optical response signal includes the step of transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via the camera of the observation scope instrument. The method described in Appendix 22. [Additional note 24] The step of acquiring the optical response signal includes transmitting the optical response signal to a local spectrometer via a second optical path extending along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope instrument. The method described in Appendix 22. [Additional note 25] The steps include: discharging at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe toward a local collection receptacle via an evacuation pathway that includes at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe; illuminating at least a portion of the sample; obtaining the optical response; and analyzing the sample, while at least a portion of the sample is located toward the local collection receptacle. The method described in Appendix 21. [Additional note 26] The step of discharging at least a portion of the biological sample from the distal end of the probe through an discharge pathway that includes at least a portion of the longitudinal channel of the probe. The steps include illuminating at least a portion of the sample, obtaining the optical response, and analyzing the sample, and are performed while at least a portion of the biological sample is being discharged along the elimination pathway. The method described in Appendix 21. [Additional note 27] At least one or both of the steps of illuminating at least a portion of the sample or obtaining the optical response are performed through at least one optically transparent portion arranged along the discharge path. The method described in Appendix 26. [Additional note 28] The step includes establishing or adjusting elimination parameters in response to information including the index of the composition of at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, The method described in Appendix 27. [Additional note 29] The step includes establishing or adjusting acoustic processing parameters in response to information including the index of the composition of at least a portion of the analyzed biological sample, The method described in Appendix 28. [Additional note 30] A method of ablating an organization, The steps include applying energy to the tissue via the distal end of the ablation probe, A step of discharging a portion of the ablated tissue through an evacuation pathway, wherein the evacuation pathway includes a channel of the ablation probe. The steps include optically sensing a portion of the ablated tissue as it moves through the discharge pathway, Steps to measure some of the above embodiments, The steps include providing a first signal representing the aforementioned embodiment, including, method. [Additional note 31] The process includes the step of receiving the first signal on a monitor and displaying the configuration, The method described in Appendix 30. [Additional note 32] The step of applying the energy includes the step of applying mechanical ablation energy to the tissue, The method includes the step of receiving the first signal at a mechanical ablation energy source and adjusting the characteristics of the mechanical ablation energy based on the first signal. The method described in Appendix 30. [Additional note 33] The step of optically sensing the aforementioned portion includes the step of directing illumination through the optically transparent portion of the discharge path. The method described in Appendix 30. [Additional note 34] The step of optically sensing the aforementioned portion includes the step of directing illumination to the optical sensor through the optically transparent portion of the discharge path. The method described in Appendix 33. [Additional note 35] The measurement step includes measuring the light intensity of the illumination with the optical sensor. The method described in Appendix 34. [Additional note 36] The first signal is based on the light intensity of the illumination. The method described in Appendix 35. [Additional note 37] The optical sensing step includes receiving response illumination from the transparent portion of the discharge path with a spectrometer. The method described in Appendix 33. [Additional note 38] The measurement step includes measuring the spectral information of the response illumination. The method described in Appendix 37. [Additional note 39] The first signal is based on the spectral information. The method described in Appendix 38. [Additional note 40] The process includes adjusting the flow of the ablated tissue through the discharge path in response to the first signal, The method described in Appendix 30. [Additional note 41] The step of adjusting the flow includes the step of capturing a portion of the flow in a specimen chamber connected to the discharge path. The method described in Appendix 40. [Additional note 42] A probe, configured to extend through the working channel of an observation scope and to transmit mechanical energy to the patient's tissue to ablate the tissue at the distal end of the probe, A lighting source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the aforementioned organization, A spectrometer configured to receive response illumination from at least a portion of the said tissue and to provide compositional information about at least a portion of the said tissue, including Composition identification system. [Additional note 43] Includes a first optical medium configured to transmit light from the illumination source to the distal end of the probe, The composition identification system described in Appendix 42. [Additional note 44] The first optical medium extends through the working channel together with the probe. The composition identification system described in Appendix 43. [Additional note 45] Including the aforementioned observation device, The observation device includes the first optical medium. The composition identification system described in Appendix 44. [Additional note 46] The observation device includes a camera configured to receive the response illumination and to transmit the response illumination to the spectrometer via a first signal. The composition identification system described in Appendix 45. [Additional note 47] It includes a second optical medium configured to extend together with the probe through the working channel, the second optical medium configured to transmit the illumination response to the spectrometer. The composition identification system described in Appendix 43. [Additional note 48] The discharge path includes a discharge route configured to discharge at least a portion of the said tissue toward a collection system, the discharge path includes a channel of the probe, The composition identification system described in Appendix 42. [Additional note 49] The discharge path includes an optically transparent portion positioned between the probe and the collection system. The composition identification system described in Appendix 48. [Additional Note 50] The illumination source is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue with the transparent portion. The composition identification system described in Appendix 49. [Additional note 51] The spectrometer is configured to receive the response illumination in the transparent portion. The composition identification system described in Appendix 50. [Additional note 52] Includes a flow control configured to modify the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer, The composition identification system described in Appendix 48. [Additional note 53] The flow control is configured to capture a portion of the sample as a specimen within a specimen chamber connected to the discharge path. The composition identification system described in Appendix 52. [Additional note 54] A method for operating a composition identification system, The steps include mechanically ablating the tissue via a probe extending through the working channel of the observation instrument, The steps include providing responsive illumination by illuminating at least a portion of the said organization, A step of generating a first signal based on the response illumination, wherein the first signal includes spectral analysis information for the composition of at least a portion of the tissue; including, method. [Additional note 55] The illuminating step includes illuminating at least a portion of the tissue through a first optical medium extending together with the probe through the work channel, The method described in Appendix 54. [Additional note 56] The step of generating the first signal includes the step of relaying the illumination response to a spectrometer via the camera of the observation instrument. The method described in Appendix 55. [Additional note 57] The step of generating the first signal includes receiving the response illumination in a spectrometer via a second optical medium extending through the working channel together with the probe, The method described in Appendix 55. [Additional note 58] The step includes discharging at least a portion of the tissue from the distal end of the probe toward a collection system via an discharge path, wherein the discharge path includes a channel in the probe. The method described in Appendix 54. [Additional note 59] The illuminating step includes illuminating at least a portion of the tissue through the optically transparent portion of the discharge path, wherein the optically transparent portion is located between the proximal end of the probe and the collection system. The method described in Appendix 58. [Additional note 60] The step of generating a first signal based on the response illumination includes the step of receiving the illumination response with a spectrometer positioned adjacent to the transparent portion. The method described in Appendix 59. [Additional note 61] The step includes changing the flow of at least a portion of the tissue in response to a second signal received from a sensor upstream of the spectrometer, The method described in Appendix 60. [Additional note 62] The step includes capturing at least a portion of the tissue as a specimen in a specimen chamber connected to the discharge pathway, The method described in Appendix 61. [Additional note 63] A system for analyzing and processing biological samples, An acoustic transmission probe for performing acoustic processing on the biological sample, wherein the biological sample is located in the patient at the distal end of the probe; An evacuation system configured to discharge multiple portions of the biological sample from a region near the distal end of the probe, wherein the multiple portions are fragmented from the biological sample in response to the acoustic treatment, A discharge path configured to move the aforementioned multiple parts to a terminal collection system, A specimen chamber configured to provide a specimen of the biological sample by diverting the first portion of the plurality of parts away from the discharge path, Emission systems, including, including, system. [Additional note 64] Including a lighting source configured to illuminate the specimen in the specimen chamber, The system described in Appendix 63. [Additional note 65] Includes an optical sensor system configured to generate spectral information based on response illumination received from the specimen in response to illumination provided by the illumination source, The system described in Appendix 64. [Additional note 66] The optical sensor system is a spectrometer configured to provide spectral information of the sample. The system described in Appendix 65. [Additional note 67] The system includes a controller configured to receive the spectral information and to drive the acoustic transmission probe, the controller further configured to adjust parameters for driving the acoustic transmission probe in response to the spectral information. The system described in Appendix 66. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0117】 100 Ablation Systems 102 Ablation Controller 103 Ablation devices 104 Ablation probe 105 Working Channels 107 Observation equipment 109 Mechanical Ablation Controller 111 Handle 113 Tube 114 Light path 130 Material Management System 145 Composition detector 200 Mechanical Ablation Systems 204 Ablation probe 205 Working Channels 206 Light source 207 Observation equipment 208 Spectrometer 209 Mechanical Ablation Controller 210 Spectrum analyzer 211 Light path 212 Optical Sensors 217 Biological samples, biological specimens 219 Distal end 300 Mechanical Ablation Systems 304 Ablation probe 305 Working Channel 306 First light source 307 Observation equipment 308 Spectrometer 309 Mechanical Ablation Controller 310 Spectrum analyzer 311 Light path 312 Second Optical Path 312 Optical Sensors 317 Biological samples, biological specimens 319 Distal end 400 Mechanical Ablation System 404 Ablation probe 405 Working Channel 406 Light source 407 Observation equipment 408 Spectrometer 409 Mechanical Ablation Controller 410 Spectrum analyzer 411 Light path 412 Optical Sensors 414 Light path 417 Biological samples, biological specimens 419 Distal end 504 Ablation probe 513 Tube 520 holes 521 Optical Fiber 604 Ablation probe 613 Tube 621 Optical Fiber 622 Bonding materials 623 Sealant 704 Ablation probe 713 Tube 720 holes 721 Optical Fiber 804 Ablation probe 813 Tube 821 Optical Fiber Channel 823 900 Mechanical Ablation System 904 Ablation probe 906 light source 909 Mechanical Ablation Controller 910 Feedback Analyzer 911 handle 912 Optical Sensor 917 stones 922 Stone fragment 930 Material Management System 931 Emissions Route 932 Optical transparent part 935 Cloud 945 Composition detector 1090 Relative size 1100 Mechanical Ablation System 1103 Ablation device 1104 Ablation probe 1106 Light source 1109 Ablation Controller 1111 Handle 1112 Optical Sensor System 1117 Biological materials 1122 Stone fragment 1131 Emission Route 1136 Electronic Medical Record System 1145 Composition detector 1222 Ablation material, calculus fragments 1231 Emission Route 1241 Flow control actuator 1245 Composition detector 1250 Collection Chamber

Claims

[Claim 1] A system for analyzing and processing biological samples within a patient, An acoustic transmission probe, which extends through the working channel of an observation scope instrument and is configured to acoustically process the biological sample at the distal end of the probe, An illumination light path configured to illuminate at least a portion of the biological sample, A response optical path configured to acquire an optical response signal from at least a portion of the biological sample in response to the illumination, A spectrometer configured to analyze spectral information of the optical response signal to determine an index of at least a portion of the composition of the sample, A controller circuit configured to establish or adjust acoustic processing parameters of the acoustic processing of the acoustic transmission probe in response to information including the index of at least a portion of the composition of the analyzed biological sample, Includes, The acoustic processing parameter includes at least one of the drive signal shape, frequency, amplitude, pulse width, or pulse frequency of the acoustic processing of the acoustic transmission probe. system. [Claim 2] The controller circuit is configured to establish or adjust the acoustic processing parameters in real time based on the indicators of at least a portion of the composition of the biological sample that have been analyzed. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 3] In order to determine the index of the composition of at least a portion of the biological sample, the spectrometer is configured to determine at least one of the size, shape, surface texture, density, hardness, or color of at least a portion of the biological sample. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 4] The aforementioned acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, The illumination light path and the response light path are attached to the tube. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 5] The aforementioned acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, The illumination light path and the response light path are each individually integrated with the tube. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 6] The aforementioned acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, The illumination light path and the response light path extend along a portion of the tube, and at the distal end of the tube, they follow a recess in the tube and transition into a hole in the side wall of the tube. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 7] The aforementioned acoustic transmission probe includes a tube, The illumination light path and the response light path are located on the outer surface of the tube and in recessed channels along it. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 8] The observation scope device further includes the aforementioned observation scope device, and the observation scope device includes the aforementioned illumination light path. The illumination light path is configured to extend along the probe through the working channel of the observation scope instrument and to transmit light toward the distal end of the probe. The system according to claim 1. [Claim 9] At least one or both of the illumination light path or the response light path are coupled to at least a portion of the biological sample via at least one optically transparent portion. The spectrometer is configured to receive the optical response signal through the optically transparent portion. The system according to claim 1.

Images