Ultrasonic treatment tool

Abstract

This ultrasonic treatment tool comprises: a vibration transmission member 12 that transmits ultrasonic vibrations from the base toward the tip; a tube TI into which the vibration transmission member 12 is inserted; and hard members 16 that are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the vibration transmission member 12 at ultrasonic-vibration node positions P1, P2, that abut on the inner peripheral surface of the tube TI, and that are composed of a resin material harder than the tube TI.

Description

Ultrasonic Treatment Device

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic treatment device.

[0002] Conventionally, ultrasonic treatment devices have been known that treat a target area in biological tissue (hereinafter referred to as a target area) by applying ultrasonic energy as treatment energy to the target area (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The ultrasonic treatment device described in Patent Document 1 includes a vibration transmission member (ultrasonic blade), jaws (jaw members), a rubber lining, and a pipe (inner sheath) as shown below. The vibration transmission member transmits ultrasonic vibrations from the base end to the tip. The jaws open and close relative to the vibration transmission member. The rubber lining has a ring shape and is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the vibration transmission member. More specifically, the rubber lining is provided at a node position of the ultrasonic vibration. The vibration transmission member is inserted into the pipe, and the outer peripheral surface of the rubber lining abuts against the inner peripheral surface.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-2807

[0005] However, the rubber lining is made of a relatively flexible material. Therefore, when the jaws are closed, the rubber lining deforms, causing the vibration transmission member to bend. When the vibration transmission member bends in this way, it becomes difficult to securely grasp the treatment target between the jaws and the vibration transmission member.

[0006] Therefore, it is conceivable to use a hard material with higher rigidity than the rubber lining instead of the rubber lining. However, while using such a hard material can suppress the deflection of the vibration transmission member, it also creates a problem in that the structure becomes prone to liquid seeping in through the inside of the pipe.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic treatment device that can ensure watertightness while suppressing deflection of a vibration transmission member.

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the ultrasonic treatment device of the present invention comprises a vibration transmission member that transmits ultrasonic vibrations from the base end to the tip end, a tube into which the vibration transmission member is inserted, and a hard member that is provided on the outer surface of the vibration transmission member and at a node position of the ultrasonic vibration, abuts the inner surface of the tube, and is made of a resin material that is harder than the tube.

[0009] According to the ultrasonic treatment device of the present invention, it is possible to ensure watertightness while suppressing deflection of the vibration transmission member.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a treatment system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a distal end portion of an ultrasonic treatment device. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a support member. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a first support member. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a first support member. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a watertight structure achieved by the first support member. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the watertight structure achieved by the first support member. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the watertight structure achieved by the first support member. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a second modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a fourth modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a fourth modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a fourth modified example of the embodiment.

[0011] Hereinafter, a mode for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as an embodiment) will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below. Furthermore, in the description of the drawings, the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

[0012] [Overview of Treatment System] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a treatment system 1 according to an embodiment. The treatment system 1 applies treatment energy to a region of biological tissue to be treated (hereinafter referred to as the treatment target) to treat the treatment target. The treatment energy in this embodiment is ultrasonic energy and high-frequency energy. Treatments that can be performed by the treatment system 1 according to this embodiment include coagulation (sealing) of the treatment target or incision of the treatment target. Coagulation and incision may also be performed simultaneously. As shown in Fig. 1, the treatment system 1 includes an ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 and a control device 3.

[0013] [Configuration of Ultrasonic Treatment Instrument] In the following, one side along the central axis Ax1 (FIG. 1) of the outer pipe 10 will be referred to as the distal side Ar1, and the other side will be referred to as the proximal side Ar2. In addition, the "width direction" described below refers to a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax1 and the opening / closing direction of the jaw 11 relative to the treatment portion 121, and is perpendicular to the plane of the paper in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0014] Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the distal end portion of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2. Specifically, Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end portion of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 cut along a plane including the central axis Ax1 of the outer pipe 10, with the jaw 11 and the vibration transmission member 12 included in the plane.

[0015] The ultrasonic treatment device 2 is a treatment device that applies ultrasonic energy and high-frequency energy to a treatment target, and includes a handpiece 4 and an ultrasonic transducer 5, as shown in FIG.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the handpiece 4 includes a fixed handle 6 (Figure 1), an operating handle 7 (Figure 1), a switch 8 (Figure 1), a rotating knob 9 (Figure 1), an outer pipe 10, a jaw 11, and a vibration transmission member 12.

[0017] The fixed handle 6 supports the entire ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 and is a part that is held by an operator (user) such as a surgeon.

[0018] The operating handle 7 is movably attached to the fixed handle 6 and receives opening and closing operations by an operator such as a surgeon.

[0019] The switch 8 is provided in an exposed state on the outside of the fixed handle 6 and receives treatment operations from an operator such as a surgeon.

[0020] The rotation knob 9 has a generally cylindrical shape coaxial with the central axis Ax1 and is provided on the distal end side Ar1 of the fixed handle 6. The rotation knob 9 is rotated by an operator such as a surgeon. This rotation causes the rotation knob 9 to rotate about the central axis Ax1 relative to the fixed handle 6. Furthermore, the rotation of the rotation knob 9 causes the outer pipe 10, the jaw 11, and the vibration transmission member 12 to rotate about the central axis Ax1.

[0021] The outer pipe 10 has a tubular shape. In this embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is a cylindrical pipe made of a conductive material such as metal.

[0022] In this outer pipe 10, a pivot axis Pi1 (FIGS. 1 and 2) is fixed to the end of the tip side Ar1. The pivot axis Pi1 is formed of a cylindrical pin extending in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIGS. 1 and 2, and engages with the jaw 11 and rotatably supports the jaw 11.

[0023] The outer circumferential surface of the outer pipe 10 is covered with an electrically insulating outer tube TO ( FIG. 2 ). A tubular inner pipe PI ( FIG. 2 ) is inserted into the outer pipe 10 and moves back and forth along the longitudinal direction of the outer pipe 10 in response to an operator's opening or closing operation of the operating handle 7. This inner pipe PI corresponds to the pipe according to the present invention. A drive shaft Pi2 ( FIG. 2 ), which is a cylindrical pin extending in a direction perpendicular to the plane of FIGS. 1 and 2 , and engages with the jaw 11, is fixed to the end of the distal end side Ar1 of the inner pipe PI. In this embodiment, the drive shaft Pi2 is located on the upper side of the rotation shaft Pi1 in FIG. 2 (the side where the arm body 131 is located relative to the treatment unit 121).

[0024] In this embodiment, the jaw 11 is partially made of a conductive material and includes an arm 13 and a pad 14, as shown in FIG.

[0025] In this embodiment, the arm 13 is made of a conductive material and is a member in which an arm body 131 and a pair of bearing portions 132 are integrally formed, as shown in FIG.

[0026] The arm body 131 is formed of a long plate body, and is disposed in a position where one plate surface faces the vibration transmission member 12 .

[0027] The pair of bearings 132 are provided at the ends of the base end side Ar2 of the arm body 131, and are each composed of a plate body that faces each other in the width direction of the arm body 131. Note that Fig. 2 shows only one of the pair of bearings 132. Since the pair of bearings 132 have the same configuration, the following will describe the configuration of only one of the bearings 132.

[0028] The bearing portion 132 is connected to the outer pipe 10 by a rotation axis Pi1, and is also connected to the inner pipe PI by a drive axis Pi2.

[0029] The arm 13 rotates about the rotation axis Pi1 relative to the outer pipe 10 in response to the forward / backward movement of the inner pipe PI in response to the opening / closing operation of the operating handle 7 by an operator such as a surgeon. As a result, the jaw 11 opens and closes with respect to the treatment unit 121, which is the distal end of the vibration transmission member 12, and can grasp a treatment target between the jaw 11 and the treatment unit 121. In this embodiment, the jaw 11 rotates about the rotation axis Pi1 in a direction approaching the treatment unit 121 in response to the movement of the inner pipe PI toward the distal end side Ar1. That is, the jaw 11 closes with respect to the treatment unit 121. Furthermore, the jaw 11 rotates about the rotation axis Pi1 in a direction away from the treatment unit 121 in response to the movement of the inner pipe PI toward the proximal end side Ar2. That is, the jaw 11 opens with respect to the treatment unit 121. As described above, in this embodiment, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 is configured as a so-called push-close type.

[0030] The pad 14 is made of an electrically insulating and biocompatible resin material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the arm 13. As shown in FIG. 2 , the pad 14 is fixed to the surface of the arm body 131 facing the treatment section 121, and comes into contact with the treatment section 121 when the jaw 11 is closed over the treatment section 121. Because the pad 14 is electrically insulating, it has the function of preventing a short circuit between the arm 13 and the vibration transmission member 12. Furthermore, the pad 14 has the function of preventing the ultrasonically vibrating treatment section 121 from colliding with the arm 13 and being damaged when the incision of the treatment target using ultrasonic vibrations is completed.

[0031] Examples of methods for fixing the pad 14 to the arm body 131 include a method of mechanically fixing the pad 14 by protruding a claw portion from the surface of the arm body 131 facing the treatment section 121 and engaging the pad 14 with the claw portion, or insert molding.

[0032] The vibration transmission member 12 is made of a conductive material and has an elongated shape extending along the central axis Ax1. As shown in FIG. 2 , the vibration transmission member 12 is inserted into the inner pipe PI with the treatment portion 121 protruding outward. At this time, the end of the base end side Ar2 of the vibration transmission member 12 is mechanically connected to the ultrasonic vibrator 52 constituting the ultrasonic transducer 5, as shown in FIG. 1 . The vibration transmission member 12 transmits ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer 5 from the end of the base end side Ar2 to the treatment portion 121. In this embodiment, the ultrasonic vibrations are longitudinal vibrations vibrating in a direction along the central axis Ax1. The outer surface of the vibration transmission member 12, excluding the treatment portion 121, is covered by an electrically insulating inner tube TI ( FIG. 2 ). This inner tube TI can be a heat-shrinkable tube made of a fluororesin such as perfluoroethylene propene copolymer (FEP). This inner tube TI corresponds to the tube according to the present invention.

[0033] A support member 15 (see FIG. 3) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the vibration transmission member 12 described above. The detailed configuration of the support member 15 will be described later in the section "Configuration of the Support Member."

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1 , the ultrasonic transducer 5 includes a TD (transducer) case 51 and an ultrasonic vibrator 52 .

[0035] The TD case 51 supports the ultrasonic transducer 52 and is detachably connected to the fixed handle 6 .

[0036] The ultrasonic vibrator 52 generates ultrasonic vibrations under the control of the control device 3. In this embodiment, the ultrasonic vibrator 52 is configured by a BLT (bolt-tightened Langevin type vibrator).

[0037] [Configuration of the Control Device] The control device 3 comprehensively controls the operation of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 via the electric cable C (FIG. 1). Specifically, the control device 3 detects a treatment operation on the switch 8 by an operator such as a surgeon via the electric cable C. When the control device 3 detects the treatment operation, it applies treatment energy to the treatment target grasped between the jaw 11 and the treatment section 121 via the electric cable C. In other words, the control device 3 treats the treatment target.

[0038] For example, when ultrasonic energy is applied to a treatment target, the control device 3 supplies driving power to the ultrasonic vibrator 52 via the electric cable C. This causes the ultrasonic vibrator 52 to generate longitudinal vibrations (ultrasonic vibrations) that vibrate in a direction along the central axis Ax1. The treatment unit 121 also vibrates at a desired amplitude due to the longitudinal vibrations. Then, ultrasonic vibrations are applied from the treatment unit 121 to the treatment target grasped between the jaw 11 and the treatment unit 121. In other words, ultrasonic energy is applied from the treatment unit 121 to the treatment target.

[0039] Furthermore, for example, when applying high-frequency energy to a treatment target, the control device 3 supplies high-frequency power between the arm 13 and the vibration transmission member 12 via the electric cable C, the outer pipe 10, etc. When high-frequency power is supplied between the arm 13 and the vibration transmission member 12, a high-frequency current flows through the treatment target grasped between the jaw 11 and the treatment section 121. In other words, high-frequency energy is applied to the treatment target. That is, the arm 13 and the treatment section 121 function as electrodes according to the present invention.

[0040] [Configuration of Support Member] Next, the configuration of the above-mentioned support member 15 will be described. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the support member 15. Specifically, Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the jaw 11, vibration transmission member 12, inner pipe PI, inner tube TI, and support member 15 cut along the same plane as Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 3, the support member 15 includes first to third support members 16 to 18.

[0041] In this embodiment, the third support member 18 is made of an elastic rubber material and has a circular ring shape through which the vibration transmission member 12 is inserted. More specifically, the third support member 18 is disposed at a node position P3 ( FIG. 3 ) of the ultrasonic vibration (longitudinal vibration) that is closest to the proximal end Ar2. The third support member 18 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the inner pipe PI. In this embodiment, the inner tube TI is divided into two parts by the third support member 18, as shown in FIG. 3 . Hereinafter, the inner tube TI located closer to the distal end Ar1 than the third support member 18 will be referred to as the first inner tube TI1, and the inner tube TI located closer to the proximal end Ar2 than the third support member 18 will be referred to as the second inner tube TI2 ( FIG. 3 ).

[0042] The first and second support members 16, 17 are each made of a resin material harder than the inner tube TI and have an annular shape through which the vibration transmission member 12 is inserted. Examples of such resin materials include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), and polyoxymethylene (POM). More specifically, the first support member 16 is disposed at node position P1 ( FIG. 3 ) on the distal end side Ar1 of the ultrasonic vibration (longitudinal vibration). This first support member 16 corresponds to the hard member according to the present invention. Furthermore, the second support member 17 is disposed at node position P2 ( FIG. 3 ), the second distal end side Ar1 of the ultrasonic vibration (longitudinal vibration). This second support member 17 corresponds to the hard member according to the present invention.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 3, annular grooves 122 to 124 are provided at each of the nodal positions P1 to P3 on the outer peripheral surface of the vibration transmission member 12, to which the first to third support members 16 to 18 are attached.

[0044] The first and second support members 16 and 17 have the same configuration, so only the configuration of the first support member 16 will be described below.

[0045] [Configuration of First Support Member] Next, the configuration of the above-mentioned first support member 16 will be described. Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams illustrating the configuration of the first support member 16. Specifically, Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the first support member 16. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the order in which the first support member 16 is assembled to the vibration transmission member 12. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first support member 16 is made up of first and second C-rings 161 and 162.

[0046] The first and second C-rings 161, 162 have the same shape. Therefore, only the configuration of the first C-ring 161 will be described below, and for the second C-ring 162, the same components as those of the first C-ring 161 will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 4 , the first C-ring 161 includes a C-ring body 1611 and a protrusion 1612 .

[0048] The C-ring main body 1611 is a C-shaped member formed by forming a notch 1613 in part of the circumferential direction of a circular member having an inner diameter dimension substantially the same as the outer diameter dimension of the groove 122. Note that, in order to achieve a structure in which no gap is formed between the C-ring main body 1611 and the vibration transmission member 12, it is desirable that the inner diameter dimension of the C-ring main body 1611 be smaller than the outer diameter dimension of the groove 122.

[0049] The protrusion 1612 is a part that protrudes along the central axis of the C-ring main body 1611 from a position that is rotationally symmetrical by 180 degrees around the central axis of the C-ring main body 1611 relative to the location where the cutout 1613 is provided.

[0050] The first support member 16 is then assembled into the groove 122 as shown below. Specifically, first, the worker places the vibration transmission member 12 inside the C-shaped C-ring body 1611 while pushing apart both circumferential end portions (both edges of the cutout portion 1613) of the C-ring body 1611 of the first C-ring 161 ( FIG. 5B ). Similarly, the worker places the vibration transmission member 12 inside the C-shaped C-ring body 1611 while pushing apart both circumferential end portions (both edges of the cutout portion 1613) of the C-ring body 1611 of the second C-ring 162 such that the protrusions 1612 of the second C-ring 162 fit into the cutouts 1613 of the first C-ring 161 ( FIG. 5C ). That is, the first and second C-rings 161 and 162 are attached to the vibration transmitting member 12 by so-called snap fit.

[0051] [Watertight Structure Using First Support Member] Next, the watertight structure using the first support member 16 will be described. Figures 6 to 8 are diagrams illustrating the watertight structure using the first support member 16. Specifically, Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the first inner tube TI1, the first support member 16, and the vibration transmission member 12 cut along a plane including the central axis Ax1. Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating a path PA of liquid passing through the first support member 16 from the distal end side Ar1 to the proximal end side Ar2. Note that in Figures 7 and 8, the path PA is represented by an arrow indicating the direction of travel of the liquid.

[0052] As described above, the outer peripheral surface of the first support member 16 assembled to the vibration transmission member 12 abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the first inner tube TI1, as shown in FIG. 6 . As a result, liquid that has infiltrated from the tip of the inner pipe PI into the gap between the first inner tube TI1 and the vibration transmission member 12 is prevented from advancing toward the base end side Ar2 by the first support member 16. Specifically, when passing through the first support member 16, the liquid follows the boundary portion SL ( FIGS. 7 and 8 ) between the first and second C-rings 161 and 162. The boundary portion SL extends from one end to the other end of the first support member 16 in the direction along the central axis Ax1 and corresponds to a slit according to the present invention. In other words, the boundary portion SL forms the path PA ( FIGS. 7 and 8 ). In this embodiment, a portion of the boundary portion SL intersects (is perpendicular to) the direction along the central axis Ax1.

[0053] The above-described embodiment of the present invention provides the following advantages. In the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 according to this embodiment, the first support member 16 is made of a resin material harder than the inner tube TI. Therefore, compared to a conventional configuration using a rubber lining, when the jaws 11 are closed, the amount of deformation of the first support member 16 is reduced, thereby suppressing deflection of the vibration transmission member 12. In other words, the target of treatment can be securely grasped between the jaws 11 and the vibration transmission member 12. Furthermore, as described above, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 achieves a watertight structure using the inner tube TI and the first support member 16. Therefore, liquid that has entered the gap between the first inner tube TI1 and the vibration transmission member 12 from the distal end of the inner pipe PI can be prevented from progressing toward the proximal end side Ar2. Therefore, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 according to this embodiment can ensure watertightness while suppressing deflection of the vibration transmission member 12.

[0054] In the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2 according to this embodiment, the first support member 16 is composed of the first and second C-rings 161 and 162. Therefore, the first and second C-rings 161 and 162 can be attached to the vibration transmission member 12 by snap-fitting, improving the ease of assembly of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2. This also reduces assembly time and eliminates the need for deburring, which is required when using a rubber lining as in the past, thereby reducing the cost of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 2. Furthermore, by constructing the first support member 16 from a resin material, the gap at the boundary portion SL between the first and second C-rings 161 and 162 can be narrowed, allowing the path PA to have a long and complex shape, thereby ensuring sufficient watertightness. In particular, because a portion of the boundary portion SL intersects (is perpendicular to) the direction along the central axis Ax1, liquid penetration can be effectively suppressed. Furthermore, by producing the first support member 16 made of a resin material by injection molding, a 3D printer, or the like, the first support member 16 can be produced at low cost.

[0055] Furthermore, in the ultrasonic treatment device 2 according to the present embodiment, the second support member 17 has the same configuration as the first support member 16. Therefore, the effect of ensuring watertightness while suppressing deflection of the vibration transmission member 12 can be more suitably achieved.

[0056] Other Embodiments Although the embodiments for carrying out the present invention have been described above, the present invention should not be limited to only the above-described embodiments. In the above-described embodiments, ultrasonic energy and high-frequency energy are used as the treatment energy applied to the treatment target by the ultrasonic treatment device 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, and only ultrasonic energy may be used.

[0057] In the above-described embodiment, the ultrasonic treatment tool 2 is configured as a so-called push-close type, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be configured as a so-called pull-close type. Specifically, the jaw 11 rotates about the rotation axis Pi1 in a direction approaching the treatment portion 121 in conjunction with the movement of the inner pipe PI toward the base end side Ar2. That is, the jaw 11 closes with respect to the treatment portion 121. Also, the jaw 11 rotates about the rotation axis Pi1 in a direction away from the treatment portion 121 in conjunction with the movement of the inner pipe PI toward the tip end side Ar1. That is, the jaw 11 opens with respect to the treatment portion 121.

[0058] In the above-described embodiment, the jaw 11 opens and closes relative to the treatment portion 121 in conjunction with the forward and backward movement of the inner pipe PI along the central axis Ax1, but this is not limiting. A configuration in which the jaw 11 opens and closes relative to the treatment portion 121 in conjunction with the forward and backward movement of the outer pipe 10 along the central axis Ax1 may also be employed.

[0059] In the above-described embodiment, the third support member 18 may also be made of a resin material, similar to the first and second support members 16 and 17 .

[0060] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the following modified examples 1 to 4 may be adopted.

[0061] (Modification 1) Figures 9 to 11 are diagrams illustrating Modification 1 of the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 9 is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5 and shows the order in which the first support member 16 according to Modification 1 is assembled to the vibration transmission member 12. Figure 10 is a diagram corresponding to Figure 6. Figure 11 is a diagram corresponding to Figures 7 and 8. In the above-described embodiment, a first support member 16A according to Modification 1 shown in Figures 9 to 11 may be employed instead of the first support member 16.

[0062] The first support member 16A is made of the same resin material as the first support member 16 described in the above-described embodiment. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9B , the first support member 16A has an inner diameter dimension that is substantially the same as the outer diameter dimension of the groove 122 and has a circular ring shape through which the vibration transmission member 12 is inserted. Note that, in order to achieve a structure in which no gap is formed between the first support member 16A and the vibration transmission member 12, it is desirable that the inner diameter dimension of the first support member 16A be smaller than the outer diameter dimension of the groove 122. The first support member 16A is provided with a slit SL ( FIG. 9B ) extending from one end to the other end in the direction along the central axis Ax1.

[0063] Then, the first support member 16A is assembled into the groove 122 as shown below. Specifically, the worker places the vibration transmission member 12 inside the first support member 16A while pushing apart both circumferential edge portions of the first support member 16A that are bounded by the slit SL (FIG. 9(c)).

[0064] As described above, the outer peripheral surface of the first support member 16A assembled to the vibration transmission member 12 abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the first inner tube TI1, as shown in FIG. 10 . As a result, liquid that has infiltrated from the tip of the inner pipe PI into the gap between the first inner tube TI1 and the vibration transmission member 12 is prevented from progressing toward the base end side Ar2 by the first support member 16A. Specifically, the liquid follows the slit SL ( FIG. 11 ) as it passes through the first support member 16A. That is, the slit SL becomes the path PA ( FIG. 11 ) of the liquid. In this embodiment, the slit SL extends linearly and intersects with the direction along the central axis Ax1.

[0065] Even when the first support member 16A is configured from a single member as in the first modification described above, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

[0066] (Variation 2) FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating Variation 2 of the embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 12 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 11. In the above-described Variation 1, the slit SL extends linearly from one end to the other end of the first support member 16A in the direction along the central axis Ax1. However, this is not limited to this. The slit SL may have a zigzag shape extending from one end to the other end of the first support member 16B in the direction along the central axis Ax1, as in the first support member 16B in Variation 2 shown in FIG. 12. That is, the slit SL in Variation 2 becomes the liquid path PA ( FIG. 12 ), but extends in a manner intersecting the direction along the central axis Ax1.

[0067] Even when the first support member 16B is configured as a single member as in the second modification described above, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

[0068] (Variation 3) FIGS. 13 to 15 are diagrams illustrating Variation 3 of the embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 13 corresponds to FIG. 9 and shows the assembly sequence of a first support member 16C according to Variation 3 to the vibration transmission member 12. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 10. FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 11. In Variation 1 described above, the slits SL extend linearly from one end to the other end of the first support member 16A in the direction along the central axis Ax1. However, this is not limited thereto. The slits SL may have a shape extending spirally from one end to the other end of the first support member 16C in the direction along the central axis Ax1, as in the first support member 16C according to Variation 3 shown in FIGS. 13 to 15. That is, the slits SL according to Variation 3 become the liquid flow paths PA (FIG. 15), but extend in a manner intersecting the direction along the central axis Ax1.

[0069] Even when the first support member 16C is configured as a single member as in the third modified example described above, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

[0070] (Modification 4) Figures 16 to 18 are diagrams illustrating Modification 4 of the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 16 is a diagram showing the order in which a first support member 16D according to Modification 4 is attached to the vibration transmission member 12. Note that Figure 16 is a view taken along the central axis Ax1. Figure 17 is a diagram corresponding to Figure 6. Figure 18 is a diagram corresponding to Figures 7 and 8. In the above-described embodiment, the first support member 16D according to Modification 4 shown in Figures 16 to 18 may be employed instead of the first support member 16.

[0071] The first support member 16D is made of the same resin material as the first support member 16 described in the above-described embodiment. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 , the first support member 16D has an inner diameter dimension substantially equal to the outer diameter dimension of the groove 122 and has a circular ring shape through which the vibration transmission member 12 is inserted. Note that, to prevent a gap from forming between the first support member 16D and the vibration transmission member 12, the inner diameter dimension of the first support member 16D is preferably smaller than the outer diameter dimension of the groove 122. The first support member 16D is divided into two parts along the circumferential direction about the central axis of the first support member 16D. One of the two parts is a C-shaped C-ring 163. The other of the two parts is a lid 164 that closes a notch 1631 in the C-ring 163.

[0072] The first support member 16D is then assembled into the groove 122 as shown below. Specifically, first, the worker places the vibration transmission member 12 inside the C-shape of the C-ring 163 while pushing both circumferential end portions (both edges of the cutout portion 1631) of the C-ring 163 apart. Then, the worker applies the lid 164 to the cutout portion 1631. Thereafter, the C-ring 163 and the lid 164 are placed on the vibration transmission member 12 in a tightly contacted state by thermal shrinkage of the first inner tube TI1, which is a heat-shrinkable tube, as shown in FIG. 16B .

[0073] As described above, the outer peripheral surface of the first support member 16D assembled to the vibration transmission member 12 abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the first inner tube TI1, as shown in FIGS. 16B and 17 . As a result, liquid that has infiltrated from the tip of the inner pipe PI into the gap between the first inner tube TI1 and the vibration transmission member 12 is prevented from advancing toward the base end side Ar2 by the first support member 16D. Specifically, when passing through the first support member 16D, the liquid follows the boundary portion SL ( FIG. 18 ) between the C-ring 163 and the lid 164. The boundary portion SL extends from one end to the other end of the first support member 16D in the direction along the central axis Ax1 and corresponds to a slit according to the present invention. In other words, the boundary portion SL forms the path PA ( FIG. 18 ) of the liquid. In this embodiment, the boundary portion SL does not intersect with the direction along the central axis Ax1, but as described above, the gap is narrowed by the first inner tube TI1.

[0074] Even when the configuration of the first support member 16D according to the fourth modified example described above is adopted, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment are achieved.

[0075] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Treatment system 2 Ultrasonic treatment tool 3 Control device 4 Handpiece 5 Ultrasonic transducer 6 Fixed handle 7 Operating handle 8 Switch 9 Rotating knob 10 Outer pipe 11 Jaw 12 Vibration transmission member 13 Arm 14 Pad 15 Support member 16, 16A to 16D First support member 17 Second support member 18 Third support member 51 TD case 52 Ultrasonic vibrator 121 Treatment section 122 to 124 Groove 131 Arm body 132 Bearing section 161 First C-ring 162 Second C-ring 163 C-ring 164 Cover body 1611 C-ring body 1612 Projection section 1613, 1631 Notch section Ar1 Tip side Ar2 Base side Ax1 Central axis C Electrical cable P1 to P3 Nodal position PA Route PI Inner pipe Pi1 Rotating shaft Pi2 Drive shaft SL Boundary section (slit) TI Inner tube TI1 First inner tube TI2 Second inner tube TO Outer tube

Claims

1. An ultrasonic treatment device comprising: a vibration transmission member that transmits ultrasonic vibrations from a base end to a tip end; a tube through which the vibration transmission member is inserted; and a hard member that is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the vibration transmission member and at a node position of the ultrasonic vibration, abuts the inner peripheral surface of the tube, and is made of a resin material that is harder than the tube.

2. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the hard members are a pair of C-rings each formed in a C-shape, with the vibration transmission members being inserted into the inside of the C-shape.

3. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 2, wherein the pair of C-rings have the same shape.

4. The ultrasonic treatment device described in claim 2, wherein the C-ring comprises a C-ring body having a C-shape due to the formation of a notch portion, and a protrusion portion protruding from the C-ring body along the longitudinal direction of the vibration transmission member, and the pair of C-rings are attached to the vibration transmission member with the protrusion portion of one C-ring positioned in the notch portion of the other C-ring.

5. An ultrasonic treatment device as described in claim 1, wherein the hard member is provided at at least one of the most distal node position and the second most distal node position among the node positions of the ultrasonic vibration on the outer peripheral surface of the vibration transmission member.

6. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the hard member is made of any one of resin materials selected from the group consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene, polyether ether ketone, polyphenylsulfone, and polyoxymethylene.

7. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the hard member is formed in an annular shape and has a slit extending from one end to the other end in the longitudinal direction of the vibration transmission member.

8. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the slit intersects with the longitudinal direction of the vibration transmission member.

9. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 7, wherein the slit extends spirally from the one end to the other end of the hard member.

10. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the hard member comprises a C-ring having a C-shape with a cutout portion formed therein, and a cover body for closing the cutout portion.

11. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1, wherein a groove for attaching the hard member is provided at the most distal nodal position among the nodal positions of ultrasonic vibration on the outer circumferential surface of the vibration transmission member.

12. An ultrasonic treatment instrument as described in claim 1, further comprising a jaw that opens and closes relative to the vibration transmission member, and a pipe covering an outer surface of the tube, wherein the jaw opens and closes relative to the vibration transmission member by the pipe moving back and forth along the longitudinal direction of the vibration transmission member.

13. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 12, further comprising an outer pipe covering an outer peripheral surface of the pipe.

14. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 12, wherein the vibration transmission member and the jaw are each provided with an electrode for passing a high-frequency current between the vibration transmission member and the jaw.

15. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 12, further comprising an operating handle provided on the base end side of the pipe for opening and closing the jaw relative to the vibration transmission member in response to a user's operation.

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