Flexible optical rod for exploring body cavities

Abstract

The present utility model patent pertains to the medical field and relates to a probe in the form of a rod (4), designed to facilitate the visualisation of body cavities during surgical procedures. It is characterised in that it comprises a camera (5) with built-in lighting, which provides clear and detailed images directly of an inspection site. Its structure is flexible and portable, allowing direct manipulation by means of forward, backward and rotational movements of the body of the device itself. The device includes one or more instrumentation channels (3), which allow the introduction of ancillary medical instruments or controlled irrigation. For added convenience, it features a USB-C connection system (1), allowing quick integration with a smartphone or tablet screens (2), eliminating the need for specialised monitors or complex equipment. Compared with conventional models of endoscope, the flexible optical rod is low-cost, disposable and sterile, ensuring safety and hygiene during its use. It also does not require extensive training or accessories such as joysticks or additional controllers. It simplified design improves its usability, making the device an effective alternative for minimally invasive medical procedures.

Description

[0001] Flexible optical rod for exploring body cavities.

[0002] Technological sector of the utility model

[0003]

[0001] This utility model patent in the medical field refers to a rod-shaped probe for easy visualization of body cavities, characterized by being composed of a rod-shaped probe containing a camera and instrumentation channel, malleable, portable, and easily operated with only forward, backward, and rotating movements performed directly on the body of the device.

[0004] Known state of the art

[0005]

[0002] There are several models of endoscopy equipment in the medical field. They are mainly used in upper digestive endoscopy, colonoscopy, cholangioscopy, and bronchoscopy. The existing models are characterized by having complex controls, requiring specific and specialized training for the professionals who use them. They are delicate, difficult to handle, expensive, and costly to maintain. When used in a disposable manner, they become even more expensive. The high cost and complexity of handling reduce applicability, limiting use to a large percentage of doctors and reducing access for many patients.

[0006]

[0003] This utility model describes a rod-shaped probe for easy visualization of body cavities, characterized by being composed of a flexible rod-shaped probe containing a camera and instrumentation and irrigation channel, portable, malleable, and easily operated with simple forward and backward movements directly on the body of the device, dispensing with complex controls. Compared to traditional models, it is portable, low-cost, disposable, usable directly on a smartphone or tablet screen, easy to handle, and requires no specific training for its use. The device has either wired or wireless connectivity, and can be connected to a screen such as a tablet, monitor, or smartphone via cable or wirelessly. Through thin channels, it is possible to use auxiliary instruments such as baskets for removing calculi or biopsy forceps.

[0007]

[0004] The standard model is primarily for use in cholangioscopy during surgical exploration, both by laparotomy and laparoscopy. It can be used through the cystic duct (when dilated), or by choledochotomy. The malleable device is inserted into the biliary tree and simply pushed distally, searching for stones in the common bile duct under direct visualization. When a stone is identified, a stone removal device, such as a basket or dormia, is inserted into the instrumentation channel to capture and remove the stones. The same procedure is performed proximally along the biliary tree, visualizing the hepatic ducts.

[0008]

[0005] The device can be used inside a Fouchet-type probe for visualization of the esophageal and gastric mucosa during surgical procedures, allowing the identification of possible bleeding foci in anastomoses, inspection of anastomoses, and identification of the probe's position during the use of staplers.

[0009]

[0006] An alternative representing the current state of the art is described in patent PI0515538-0 "GASTRIC TUBE PLACEMENT INDICATOR". This document discloses a device developed to improve the safety and accuracy of gastric tube insertion. The technology employs optical and electronic sensors that identify the exact position of the tube in the digestive tract, reducing insertion errors and preventing medical complications. In addition to visual indicators, it may include audible alerts that assist healthcare professionals in the proper positioning of the tube. Its use optimizes clinical procedures and improves patient comfort during equipment installation.

[0010]

[0007] Another example is patent PI0311583-6 "OPTICAL DEVICE AND THIN TUBE". This technology describes an optical system integrated into medical tubes that enables internal visualization of the digestive and respiratory tracts. Equipped with a high-resolution microcamera and LED illumination, it allows real-time image transmission to an external monitor. Its thin structure facilitates insertion into patients of different body types without causing excessive discomfort. The technology stands out for offering detailed images that assist doctors in accurate diagnoses and minimally invasive procedures.

[0011]

[0008] Patent BR112012013750-6 "OPTICAL SURGICAL PROBE, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A MULTIPOINT OPTICAL SURGICAL PROBE" presents a medical probe developed for endoscopic procedures and internal inspections. This surgical probe incorporates a built-in camera with automatic focus adjustment and controllable illumination. Its resistance to liquids allows for use in humid environments, such as gastrointestinal and urological surgeries. Its flexibility is designed to facilitate insertion and movement within body cavities, ensuring clear and precise visualization. Furthermore, its lightweight structure reduces the effort required for manipulation, allowing for greater efficiency during the procedure.

[0012]

[0009] Another alternative can be observed in US patent 8,911,358 "ENDOSCOPIC VISUALIZATION SYSTEM". This device features a multi-viewpoint endoscope characterized by the system having a multi-viewpoint camera configuration and / or intelligent or cognitive image control. It contemplates a display device particularly adapted for locating internal structures within a cavity or surrounding structure, such as an animal body, for example, the abdomen of an animal or human, or for locating a real or synthetic image of such internal structures within a general image or in a 3D overview model.

[0013]

[0010] In addition, patent BR112019013148-5 "SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PROVIDING ILLUMINATION IN AN ENDOSCOPIC IMAGING ENVIRONMENT" describes an endoscopic system that may include a single optical fiber. The system may additionally include a light source that transmits light into the single optical fiber. An image sensor may be provided within the endoscopic system and disposed at a distal end of the single optical fiber. The endoscopic system may additionally be equipped with a diffuser at the distal end of the single optical fiber that produces a cone of light that is wider than an output from the single optical fiber without the diffuser.

[0014]

[0011] Another alternative can be found in patent JP7630493 "ENDOSCOPE ASSEMBLIES AND SYSTEMS".This document discloses a reusable handpiece with an illumination system and a disposable rod assembly, the reusable handpiece assembly being selectively attachable and detachable from the disposable rod assembly; the reusable handpiece assembly with illumination system includes a housing, a first articulation control button, a second articulation control button, a first articulation brake, and a second articulation brake; the disposable rod assembly includes a housing and an endoscope rod; the first articulation brake is operable from a disengaged position that allows rotation of the first articulation control button relative to the housing of the reusable handpiece to an engaged position that resists rotation of the first articulation control button relative to the housing of the reusable handpiece with illumination system.

[0015]

[0012] Finally, patent BR112014002383-2 “ARTICULATED OPTICAL SURGICAL PROBE” also exemplifies the existing state of the art. This document presents an articulated optical surgical probe that includes an ergonomically sized handle for one-handed operation, as well as a rigid cannula extending from the handle, having a diameter equal to or less than 20 Ga. At the distal end of the cannula, there is a slotted tip through which at least one optical fiber passes, running through the handle, the rigid cannula, and the tip. The probe also has a traction wire attached to the slotted tip. When subjected to tension, this wire causes the tip to deflect, tilting it at a controlled angle according to the applied force. The slotted tip is made of a resilient material, ensuring that, upon releasing the wire tension, it automatically returns to its original straight position.

[0016]

[0013] Although previously disclosed internal visualization medical devices exist, the identified prior art does not fully encompass the innovative features of the flexible optical wand for exploring body cavities, such as simplified connectivity via USB-C, built-in LED illumination, disposable and flexible structure, and additional instrumentation channels. Therefore, the proposed invention represents a significant technical advancement in the field of minimally invasive medical devices.

[0017] Description of the attached drawings

[0018]

[0014] In order for the present utility model to be fully understood and put into practice by any technician in this technological sector, it will be described in a clear, concise and sufficient manner, based on the attached drawings, which illustrate and support it, listed below:

[0019]

[0015] Figure 1 illustrates the standard model of the optical rod.

[0020]

[0016] Figure 2 illustrates in detail the tip of the optical rod, highlighting the camera and the instrumentation channel.

[0021] Detailed description of the utility model

[0022]

[0017] Its parts are best described by the following reference numerals:

[0023] • 1 - Cable with USB-C connector

[0024] • 2 - Case with camera electronic board module

[0025] • 3 - Instrumentation channel

[0026] • 4 - Flexible optical rod

[0027] • 5 - Camera with LED

[0028]

[0018] The present utility model describes a flexible optical rod for exploring body cavities which reveals a flexible rod-shaped probe (4), enclosing a microcamera (5) with built-in illumination at its end.

[0029]

[0019] Its purpose is to be introduced into body spaces in a simple and agile manner in situations such as cholangioscopy, gastroscopy and intraoperative enteroscopy. It may have one or more channels (3) for instrumentation and / or irrigation. While the equipment available on the current market is complex, difficult to handle, heavy, requiring two hands to operate, in addition to long specialized training, being fragile and having a high maintenance cost, the flexible optical wand for exploration of body cavities is characterized by being light and agile, guided in a simple manner, without the need for joysticks or handles, only with forward, backward and rotational movements directly on the wand (4), and may include articulation at its end.

[0030]

[0020] It is sterilized and disposable, facilitating its clinical use. Due to its simplicity and lightness, it is easy to handle and may not require specific training for its use. The device must be connected via USB-C cable (1) or wirelessly to a screen, such as a tablet or smartphone (2), previously fixed in an articulated support near the patient. It does not need to connect to other components such as image processors, power sources or additional light sources, only to the screen. The connection between the sterile part (flexible optical wand for exploring body cavities) and the screen (2) can be made with a sterile plastic coating, in a manner analogous to that used with the microcamera of the laparoscopy system.

[0031]

[0021] The rod (4) may have one or more channels (3), through which irrigation with physiological saline solution can be used or auxiliary instruments can be introduced, such as baskets for removing calculi or biopsy forceps. The diameter of the rod (4) varies according to the material used in the structure (resin, silicone, polyethylene, among others), the diameter of the microcamera (5) and the diameter and number of associated instrumentation channels (3). The configuration of the device will depend on the location where it will be applied. The figures, shapes and compositions described here are illustrative and not restrictive in nature, and in addition to those described.

[0032]

[0022] An example of a model is the flexible optical wand for exploring body cavities, used in transoperative cholangioscopy, gastroscopy and enteroscopy, exemplified in Figure 1. In Figure 2, it is possible to observe in detail that the device is formed by a microcamera with LED illumination (5), encased in a flexible resin (4) in the form of a wand. It is characterized by being flexible, easy to handle, being manipulated quickly with only forward, backward and rotating movements directly on its body. It also dispenses with other accessory structures, being connected directly to a smartphone or tablet screen (2) via a USB-C connector (1).

[0033]

[0023] In this model, a 3.9mm diameter, waterproof camera is used, with a focus range between 5-50mm, built-in LED lighting and a USB type C cable. The camera (5) is coated with silicone rubber, forming a flexible 6.9mm rod (4). The rod (4) has a 1.5mm channel (3) for use with instrumentation or irrigation. Through this channel, it is possible to use stone extractors (dormia or basket), biopsy forceps or serum instillation.

[0034]

[0024] Other models may use two instrumentation channels (3) or none, depending on the specific application. The diameter of the rod (4) may vary according to the diameter of the camera (5), and may be thinner. The case with the camera electronic board module (2) can be used as a cable attachment point on the support that holds the screen. The drawings and description provided do not limit the composition of other models not described in this text.

Claims

CLAIMS 1 - FLEXIBLE OPTICAL WAND FOR EXPLORING BODY CAVITIES, characterized by having a camera (5) with built-in lighting, flexible structure (4) and portable format for direct manipulation by means of forward, backward and rotating movements on the body of the device itself, being equipped with a USB-C connection system (1). 2 - FLEXIBLE OPTICAL ROD FOR EXPLORING BODY CAVITIES, according to claim 1, characterized by having one or more instrumentation channels (3) for introducing auxiliary medical instruments or controlled irrigation.