Attachment for endoscope

Abstract

This attachment for an endoscope comprises: a tube that forms at least a portion of a suction path; and a cap that can be attached to the endoscope. The proximal end of the suction path can be connected to a suction source, the distal end of the suction path is an opening formed in the cap, and the cap has a holder that holds the tube.

Description

Endoscope attachment

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an attachment for an endoscope.

[0002] Conventionally, endoscopic treatment tools for incision and dissection, such as high-frequency knives, have been used in endoscopic treatments such as ESD (endoscopic submucosal dissection).When the endoscopic field of view deteriorates due to bleeding or dirt caused by the incision or dissection, the surgeon can improve the endoscopic field of view by using the air / water supply and suction functions of the endoscope to remove the bleeding or dirt.

[0003] Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe endoscope attachments having suction channels. These endoscope attachments can be attached to an endoscope to add an additional suction function to the endoscope.

[0004] Japanese Patent No. 6165387 Japanese Patent No. 4217587

[0005] However, the conventional endoscopic attachments described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 were not always able to optimally aspirate liquid depending on, for example, the position or orientation of the endoscope or the operating site environment.

[0006] In consideration of the above circumstances, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an endoscope attachment that, when attached to an endoscope, can add a more suitable liquid suction function to the endoscope.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, this disclosure proposes the following means: An endoscopic attachment according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a tube that forms at least a portion of a suction path, and a cap that can be attached to an endoscope, wherein a base end of the suction path is connectable to a suction source, and a tip end of the suction path is an opening formed in the cap, and the cap has a holder that holds the tube.

[0008] By attaching the endoscope attachment of the present disclosure to an endoscope, it is possible to provide the endoscope with a more suitable fluid suction function.

[0009] 16. A diagram showing an endoscope of an endoscopic treatment system according to a first embodiment. A diagram showing an attachment attached to the endoscope. A cross-sectional view of the cap of the attachment. A diagram showing the incision and dissection step. A diagram showing the circulation step. A diagram showing the attachment in a different manner to the endoscope. A diagram showing the attachment in a different manner to the endoscope. A cross-sectional view of a modified cap tip portion of the cap. A front view of the modified variant as seen from the tip side. A cross-sectional view of another modified variant of the cap tip portion. A front view of the modified variant as seen from the tip side. A front view of the modified variant as seen from the tip side. A front view of the modified variant as seen from the tip side. A cross-sectional view of another modified variant of the cap tip portion. A cross-sectional view of another modified variant of the cap tip portion. A cross-sectional view of the modified variant of the cap tip portion having a protrusion. A cross-sectional view along line X1-X1 of FIG. 16. A cross-sectional view of an attachment according to a second embodiment. A front view of the attachment. A cross-sectional view of the attachment detached from the endoscope. A cross-sectional view along line X2-X2 shown in FIG. 20. A cross-sectional view of a modified cap tip portion of the attachment. 30. A cross-sectional view of an attachment according to a third embodiment. A front view of the attachment. A cross-sectional view along line X3-X3 shown in FIG. 23. A cross-sectional view of a modified example of the cap tip portion. A front view of the modified example of the cap tip portion as seen from the tip side. A cross-sectional view of a modified example of the cap tip portion. A front view of the modified example of the cap tip portion as seen from the tip side. A cross-sectional view of a modified example of the cap tip portion. A cross-sectional view along line X4-X4 shown in FIG. 30. A front view of the modified example of the cap tip portion as seen from the tip side. A side view of an attachment according to a fourth embodiment. A cross-sectional view of the attachment. A side view of an attachment according to a fifth embodiment. A side view of a modified example of the attachment. A diagram showing a modified example of a holder. A side view of the attachment according to the fifth embodiment. A side view of the attachment with the tube advanced and retracted by the lift. A side view of an attachment according to a sixth embodiment. A perspective view of an attachment according to a seventh embodiment.

[0010] First Embodiment An endoscopic treatment system 300 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. FIG.

[0011] [Endoscopic Treatment System 300] The endoscopic treatment system 300 includes an endoscope 200 and an attachment 100. The attachment 100 is attached to the endoscope 200 when in use.

[0012] 1 is a diagram showing an endoscope 200. The endoscope 200 is a known flexible endoscope, and includes an insertion section 202 that is inserted into the body from its tip, and an operation section 207 attached to the base end of the insertion section 202.

[0013] The insertion section 202 has a tip section 203, a bending section 204, and a flexible section 205. The tip section 203, the bending section 204, and the flexible section 205 are arranged in this order from the tip of the insertion section 202. A channel 206 for inserting an endoscopic treatment tool is provided inside the insertion section 202. An imaging section 203a and a tip opening 206a of the channel 206 are provided at the tip of the tip section 203.

[0014] The imaging unit 203a includes an imaging element such as a CCD or CMOS, and is capable of capturing an image of the site to be treated. The imaging unit 203a can capture an image of the tip of the endoscopic treatment tool when the endoscopic treatment tool protrudes from the tip opening 206a of the channel 206.

[0015] The bending portion 204 bends in accordance with the operator's operation of the operating portion 207. The flexible portion 205 is a flexible tubular portion.

[0016] The operation section 207 is connected to the flexible section 205. The operation section 207 has a grip 208, an input section 209, a proximal end opening (forceps opening) 206b of the channel 206, and a universal cord 210. The grip 208 is a portion that is held by the operator.

[0017] The input unit 209 has an angle knob 209a, an air / water supply button 209b, and a suction button 209c. The angle knob 209a accepts operation inputs for bending the bending portion 204. The air / water supply button 209b is a push button used to input an operation for supplying air and water from the distal end opening 206a. The suction button 209c is a push button used to input an operation for suction from the distal end opening 206a.

[0018] The universal cord 210 includes a video signal line for outputting the image captured by the imaging unit 203a to an external device. The video signal line is connected to a display device such as a liquid crystal display via an image processing device including a processor or the like.

[0019] The endoscope 200 is connected to an air / water pump 410 via a universal cord 210. Pressing the air / water button 209b starts air / water supply from the distal end opening 206a via the channel 206. The endoscope 200 is also connected to a suction pump 420 via the universal cord 210. Pressing the suction button 209c starts suction from the distal end opening 206a via the channel 206.

[0020] 2 is a diagram showing the attachment 100 attached to the endoscope 200. The attachment (endoscopic attachment, endoscopic treatment tool) 100 can be attached to the distal end 203 of the endoscope 200. The attachment 100 is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430 to form a suction path SR. Note that the suction pump 430 to which the attachment 100 is connected may be the suction pump 420 to which the endoscope 200 is connected.

[0021] The attachment 100 includes a cap 1 and a tube 7. The cap 1 is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The distal end of the tube 7 is fixed inside the cap 1. The tube 7 connects the cap 1 and the suction pump 430 and forms part of the suction path SR. The cap 1 is provided with an opening 6 of the suction path SR.

[0022] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cap 1. The cap (hood) 1 has a cap body 2 and a holder 5. The cap body 2 has a cap attachment portion 3 and a cap tip portion 4.

[0023] In the following description, in the central axial direction (also referred to as the axial direction) A of the cap 1, the cap 1 side is referred to as the "tip side (distal side) A1," and the suction pump 430 side is referred to as the "base side (proximal side) A2." The central axis of the cap 1 in the axial direction A is referred to as the "central axis O1." In addition, in the radial direction R relative to the axial direction A, the side of the central axis O1 is referred to as the "radially inner side R1," and the side opposite the radially inner side R1 is referred to as the "radially outer side R2." In addition, in the circumferential direction C relative to the axial direction A, the clockwise direction as viewed from the tip side A1 is referred to as the "right-handed (second circumferential direction) C2," and the counterclockwise direction is referred to as the "left-handed (first circumferential direction) C1."

[0024] The cap attachment portion 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1, and can be attached to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200. When the cap attachment portion 3 is attached to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the inner circumferential surface 31 of the cap attachment portion 3 and the outer circumferential surface 203b of the tip portion 203 of the endoscope come into contact with each other.

[0025] In the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200, among directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope 200, the direction from the central axis of the longitudinal direction toward the observation window 203w of the imaging unit 203a is defined as the upper side (U side) of the endoscope 200. The side opposite the upper side (U side) is defined as the lower side (D side). The cap attachment portion 3 shown in FIG. 3 is attached to the tip portion 203 so that the holder 5 is disposed above the tip portion 203.

[0026] The cap tip portion 4 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1, and is provided on the distal side A1 of the cap attachment portion 3. When the cap attachment portion 3 is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the cap tip portion 4 is disposed on the distal side A1 of the endoscope distal end portion 203. A circular distal opening 46 is formed in a distal end surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4.

[0027] The outer diameter (outer dimension in the radial direction R) of the cap attachment portion 3 is equal to the outer diameter (outer dimension in the radial direction R) of the cap tip portion 4. However, the outer diameter of the cap attachment portion 3 does not necessarily have to be equal to the outer diameter of the cap tip portion 4.

[0028] The cap distal end portion 4 has a stopper (protrusion) 43 that protrudes radially inward R1 from the inner circumferential surface 41 on the proximal side A2. When the cap attachment portion 3 is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the stopper 43 engages with the distal end surface 203c of the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. When the cap body 2 is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the stopper 43 determines the position of the cap body 2 relative to the distal end portion 203.

[0029] A base end opening 44 is provided at the base end of the cap tip portion 4. The internal space 40 of the cap tip portion 4 communicates with the internal space 30 of the cap attachment portion 3 via the base end opening 44. The observation window 203w of the imaging unit 203a and the tip opening 206a of the channel 206 are exposed from the base end opening 44 in a front view seen from the tip side A1 along the longitudinal axis.

[0030] The cap tip portion 4 has a conduit 45 that forms at least a part of the suction passage SR of the attachment 100. The conduit 45 is a through-hole that penetrates in the radial direction R from the outer peripheral surface 42 to the inner peripheral surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4.

[0031] The cap attachment portion 3 and the cap tip portion 4 are formed of, for example, resin. The cap attachment portion 3 and the cap tip portion 4 may be integrally formed by, for example, two-color molding.

[0032] The holder 5 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 22 of the cap body 2 and has a convex shape that protrudes radially outward R2 from the outer peripheral surface 22. A portion of the holder 5 overlaps with the inner peripheral surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4 in the axial direction A. The holder 5 holds the tube 7. The holder 5 is made of a resin that is harder than the tube 7. The holder 5 has a duct 50. The internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7 held in the holder 5 is in communication with the duct 50 of the holder 5.

[0033] The conduit 50 of the holder 5 connects the conduit 45 of the cap tip portion 4 and the internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7. The conduit 45 of the cap tip portion 4, the conduit 50 of the holder 5, and the internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7 form at least a part of the suction path SR of the attachment 100.

[0034] The opening 6 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4 and communicates with the pipeline 45. The opening 6 faces radially inward R1. The opening 6 overlaps with the holder 5 in the axial direction A. The opening 6 is provided on the base end side A2 of the cap tip portion 4 and adjacent to the stopper 43. Note that the opening 6 does not necessarily have to be adjacent to the stopper 43, but may be provided closer to the stopper 43 than the tip of the cap tip portion 4, i.e., in the vicinity of the stopper 43.

[0035] The tube 7 is arranged along the insertion section 202 of the endoscope 200, and connects the cap 1 and the suction pump 430. The tip of the tube 7 is held by the holder 5. The base end of the tube 7 is connected to the suction pump 430. The tube 7 forms at least a part of the suction path SR of the attachment 100.

[0036] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100 communicates with the opening 6 formed on the inner circumferential surface 41 of the cap distal end portion 4 from the lumen 70 of the tube 7, via the conduit 50 of the holder 5 and the conduit 45 of the cap distal end portion 4. In other words, the tip of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100 is the opening 6 formed on the cap distal end portion 4 of the cap 1. The base end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100 is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0037] [Method of Using the Endoscopic Treatment System 300] Next, a procedure using the endoscopic treatment system 300 of this embodiment (method of using the endoscopic treatment system 300) will be described. Specifically, local injection treatment and incision / excision treatment of a lesion in endoscopic treatment under water, such as underwater endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), will be described. Note that the endoscopic treatment system 300 is not limited to endoscopic treatment under water, and can also be used in endoscopic treatment such as regular ESD (endoscopic submucosal dissection).

[0038] <Insertion Step> As a preparatory step, the surgeon identifies the lesion by a known method. Specifically, the surgeon inserts the insertion section 202 of the endoscope 200, to which the attachment 100 is attached, into the digestive tract (e.g., the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, or large intestine), and identifies the lesion while observing an image obtained by the imaging section 203 a of the endoscope 200.

[0039] <Water Injection Step> The surgeon uses the water supply function of the endoscope 200 to inject a liquid W such as physiological saline into the digestive tract, so that the affected area is immersed in the liquid W.

[0040] <Incision and Dissection Step> Figure 4 is a diagram showing the incision and dissection step. The surgeon performs the incision and dissection procedure. The surgeon inserts a high-frequency knife into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200. The surgeon uses the high-frequency knife to incise the mucosa at the lesion. The surgeon also advances the high-frequency knife, lifting the mucosa at the incised lesion to expose the submucosal layer, and dissecting the submucosal layer at the incised lesion.

[0041] Since the lesion is immersed in the liquid W, the mucosa rises due to buoyancy, and the tip 203 of the endoscope 200 can easily penetrate under the mucosa.

[0042] <Circulation Step> Figure 5 is a diagram showing the circulation step. Incision and dissection cause blood, dirt, and the like to float in the liquid W, impairing the endoscopic field of view through the observation window 203w. The surgeon starts the suction pump 430 and performs suction from the opening 6 via the suction path SR. The liquid W containing the floating blood, dirt, and the like is sucked, improving the endoscopic field of view through the observation window 203w. Because the opening 6 for sucking the liquid W is located near the observation window 203w, the liquid W containing blood, dirt, and the like that impairs the endoscopic field of view through the observation window 203w can be efficiently sucked.

[0043] The surgeon continues the above-mentioned operations (treatments) as necessary, and finally excises the lesion, completing the ESD procedure.

[0044] 6 and 7 are diagrams showing the attachment 100 in different ways attached to the endoscope 200. The cap attachment part 3 shown in Figures 6 and 7 is attached to the tip part 203 so that the holder 5 is located on the lower side (D side) of the tip part 203. If the lesion is located on the upper side of the tip part of the endoscope 200, the cap 1 may be attached as shown in Figures 6 and 7. The holder 5 and tube 7 can be positioned so as not to interfere with the treatment.

[0045] The attachment 100 according to this embodiment, when attached to the endoscope 200, can provide the endoscope 200 with a more suitable fluid suction function. Even in situations where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be performed suitably from the attachment 100. For example, in underwater ESD (endoscopic submucosal dissection), the attachment 100 can suitably suction liquid W containing blood, dirt, etc. that impairs the endoscopic field of view through the observation window 203w. The attachment 100 can also suction blood and cleaning fluid that has accumulated in the surgical field in endoscopic treatments such as regular ESD (endoscopic submucosal dissection), not limited to underwater ESD.

[0046] Although the first embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0047] (Variation 1) Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4A, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4. Fig. 9 is a front view of the cap tip portion 4A as viewed from the tip side A1. The cap tip portion 4A is formed in a cylindrical shape with a reduced diameter on the tip side A1. Since the tip side A1 of the cap tip portion 4A has a tapered shape, it can easily penetrate under the mucous membrane.

[0048] (Variation 2) Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4B, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4. The cap tip portion 4B has a conduit 45B that forms at least a part of the suction path SR. The conduit 45B is a path that extends in the axial direction A between the inner circumferential surface 41 and the outer circumferential surface 42 of the cap tip portion 4B. The conduit 45B communicates with the conduit 50 of the holder 5. The conduit 45B also communicates with an opening 6B formed in the tip surface 47. The opening 6B faces the tip side A1.

[0049] 11 to 13 are front views of the cap tip portion 4B as viewed from the tip side A1. The opening 6B may be an elongated hole extending along the circumferential direction C, as in the opening 6B(1) shown in Fig. 11. The opening 6B may be an elongated hole extending linearly, as in the opening 6B(2) shown in Fig. 12. The opening 6B may be an opening divided into multiple sections, as in the opening 6B(3) shown in Fig. 13.

[0050] (Variation 3) Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4C, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4. The cap tip portion 4C has a conduit 45C that forms at least a part of the suction path SR. The conduit 45C is a path that extends in the axial direction A between the inner circumferential surface 41 and the outer circumferential surface 42 of the cap tip portion 4C. The conduit 45C communicates with the conduit 50 of the holder 5. The conduit 45C also communicates with an opening 6C formed in the inner circumferential surface 41. The opening 6C faces radially inward R1. The opening 6C is provided on the tip side A1 of the cap tip portion 4C.

[0051] (Variation 4) Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4D, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4. The cap tip portion 4D has a conduit 45D that forms at least a part of the suction path SR. The conduit 45D is a path that extends in the axial direction A between the inner circumferential surface 41 and the outer circumferential surface 42 of the cap tip portion 4D. The conduit 45D is connected to the conduit 50 of the holder 5. The conduit 45D is connected to an opening 6D formed in the outer circumferential surface 42. A plurality of openings 6D are provided, and they face the radially outward side R2. The plurality of openings 6D are arranged along the axial direction A. Note that the plurality of openings 6D may be arranged along the circumferential direction C of the cap tip portion 4D, or may be arranged randomly.

[0052] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4D having a protrusion 48. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X1-X1 in FIG. 16. The cap tip portion 4D may have at least one protrusion 48 around the opening 6D. The protrusion 48 extends radially outward R2 from the outer peripheral surface 42 around the opening 6D. At least one slit 48s is formed in the protrusion 48, with the tip of the slit 48s located within a space 48r surrounded by the protrusion 48 and the base of the slit 48s located on the outer peripheral surface of the holder 5. The width dimension W1 of the slit 48s is smaller than the width dimension W2 of the space 48r. The width dimension is the dimension perpendicular to the axial direction A and the opening direction of the opening 6D. The slit 48s is a groove connecting the outer space of the holder 5 with the opening 6D. The protrusion 48 can effectively prevent the opening 6D from being blocked by biological tissue or the like when the liquid W is aspirated.

[0053] Second Embodiment An attachment 100E according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 18 to 21. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0054] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment 100E. Figure 19 is a front view of the attachment 100E. The attachment 100E includes a cap 1E and a tube 7. The cap 1E is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The tube 7 connects the cap 1E to the suction pump 430 and forms part of the suction path SR. The cap 1E is provided with an opening 6E of the suction path SR.

[0055] The cap 1E includes a cap body 2E and a holder 5. The cap body 2E includes a cap attachment portion 3E and a cap tip portion 4E.

[0056] The cap mounting portion 3E is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1 and is attachable to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The cap mounting portion 3E has a conduit 35 that forms at least a part of the suction passage SR of the attachment 100E. The conduit 35 is a through-hole that penetrates the cap mounting portion 3E in the radial direction R from the outer peripheral surface 32 to the inner peripheral surface 31.

[0057] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment 100E detached from the endoscope 200. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X2-X2 shown in Figure 20. An arc-shaped arc groove 36 and a linear rear linear groove (proximal groove, proximal flow path) 37 are formed on the inner circumferential surface (inner wall) 31 of the cap attachment portion 3E.

[0058] The arc groove 36 extends counterclockwise (in a first circumferential direction) C1 from the pipeline 35. One end 36a of the arc groove 36 is continuous with the pipeline 35. The other end 36b of the arc groove 36 is located on the opposite side of the one end 36a of the arc groove 36 across the central axis O1.

[0059] The rear linear groove 37 extends to the tip of the cap attachment portion 3E along the axial direction A. One end 37a of the rear linear groove 37 is continuous with the other end 36b of the arc groove 36.

[0060] The cap tip portion 4E is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1 and is provided on the distal side A1 of the cap attachment portion 3E. When the cap attachment portion 3E is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the cap tip portion 4E is positioned on the distal side A1 of the endoscope distal end portion 203. A circular distal opening 46 is formed in a distal end surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4E.

[0061] The cap tip portion 4E has a front linear groove (tip groove, tip flow path) 45E that forms at least a portion of the suction passage SR of the attachment 100E. The front linear groove 45E extends along the axial direction A on the inner peripheral surface (inner wall) 41. One end 45Ea of the front linear groove 45E connects to the other end 37b of the rear linear groove 37 via a groove 43a formed in a portion of the stopper 43. The other end 45Eb of the front linear groove 45E communicates with an opening 6E formed in the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4E. The opening 6E faces the tip side A1. Note that the rear linear groove 37 and the front linear groove 45E are not limited to linear grooves and may be, for example, curved grooves.

[0062] The conduit 50 of the holder 5 connects the conduit 35 of the cap attachment portion 3E to the internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7. The conduit 35 of the cap attachment portion 3E, the conduit 50 of the holder 5, and the internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7 form at least a part of the suction path SR of the attachment 100E.

[0063] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100E communicates with an opening 6E formed in a distal end surface 47 of the cap distal end portion 4E via the lumen 70 of the tube 7, the duct 50 of the holder 5, the duct 35, the arcuate groove 36, and the rear linear groove 37 of the cap attachment portion 3E, and the front linear groove 45E of the cap distal end portion 4E. In other words, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100E is the opening 6E formed in the cap distal end portion 4E of the cap 1. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100E is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0064] As shown in Figure 18, grooves (36, 37, 45E) are formed on the inner surface (31, 41) of the cap body 2E between the opening 6E and the lumen 70 of the tube 7, and the grooves (36, 37, 45E) are connected to the opening 6E and the lumen 70 of the tube 7.

[0065] 19 , when viewed from the distal end side A1, the opening 6E is located on the opposite side of the observation window 203w in the radial direction R, across the channel 206 of the endoscope 200. The tube 7 is located on the opposite side of the observation window 203w in the radial direction R, across the channel 206.

[0066] By attaching the attachment 100E according to this embodiment to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a more suitable fluid suction function to the endoscope 200. Even in situations where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be performed suitably from the attachment 100E. In particular, in underwater ESD (submerged endoscopic submucosal dissection), the attachment 100E can suitably suction liquid W containing blood, dirt, etc., which impairs the endoscopic field of view through the observation window 203w.

[0067] Although the second embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above embodiment and modified examples can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0068] (Variation 5) FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a cap tip portion 4F, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4E. The cap tip portion 4F is located closer to the tip side A1 than the cap attachment portion 3E shown in the second embodiment. The cap tip portion 4F has a front linear groove (tip groove, tip flow path) 45F that forms at least a portion of the suction path SR. One end 45Fa of the front linear groove 45F connects to the other end 37b of the rear linear groove 37 via a groove 43a formed in a portion of the stopper 43. The other end 45Fb of the front linear groove 45F does not extend to the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4F. The other end 45Fb of the front linear groove 45F communicates with an opening 6F formed in the inner circumferential surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4F. Specifically, the opening 6F is located closer to the stopper 43 than the tip of the cap tip portion 4F, i.e., in the vicinity of the stopper 43. The opening 6F may be formed in a portion of the stopper 43. The cap tip portion 4F may be cylindrical with a reduced diameter at the tip side A1, like the cap tip portion 4A shown in FIGS.

[0069] Third Embodiment An attachment 100G according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 23 to 25. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0070] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment 100G. Figure 24 is a front view of the attachment 100G. The attachment 100G includes a cap 1G and a tube 7G. The cap 1G is attached to the distal end 203 of the endoscope 200. The tube 7G has a first tube 71 for suction and a second tube 72 for water supply. The first tube 71 connects the cap 1G to the suction pump 430 and forms part of the suction channel SR. The second tube 72 connects the cap 1G to the air / water supply pump 410 and forms part of the water supply channel WR. The cap 1G is provided with a first opening 6G of the suction channel SR and a second opening 8G of the water supply channel WR.

[0071] The cap 1G has a cap body 2G and a holder 5. The cap body 2G has a cap attachment portion 3G and a cap tip portion 4G.

[0072] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X3-X3 in Figure 23. The cap attachment portion 3G is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1 and is attachable to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The cap attachment portion 3G has a first conduit 35G that forms at least a portion of the suction passage SR of the attachment 100G and a second conduit 38G that forms at least a portion of the water supply passage WR of the attachment 100G. The first conduit 35G and the second conduit 38G are through-holes that penetrate the cap attachment portion 3G in the radial direction R from the outer peripheral surface 32 toward the inner peripheral surface 31.

[0073] The conduit 50 of the holder 5 connects the first conduit 35G, which forms at least a part of the suction passage SR of the attachment 100, to the lumen 71r of the first tube 71. The conduit 50 of the holder 5 connects the second conduit 38G, which forms at least a part of the water supply passage WR of the attachment 100, to the lumen 72r of the second tube 72.

[0074] An arc-shaped first arc groove 26G and a linear first straight groove (first groove, first flow path) 27G are formed on the inner circumferential surface 21 of the cap body 2G.

[0075] The first arc-shaped groove 26G extends counterclockwise (in a first circumferential direction) C1 from the first pipe 35G. One end 26Ga of the first arc-shaped groove 26G is continuous with the first pipe 35G. The one end 26Ga and the other end 26Gb of the first arc-shaped groove 26G are disposed at positions that form an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the central axis O1. Note that the one end 26Ga and the other end 26Gb of the first arc-shaped groove 26G may be disposed at positions that form an angle other than 90 degrees with respect to the central axis O1.

[0076] The first straight groove 27G extends along the axial direction A. One end 27Ga of the first straight groove 27G is connected to the other end 26Gb of the first arcuate groove 26G. The other end of the first straight groove 27G is a first opening 6G formed in the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4G. Note that the first straight groove 27G is not limited to a linear groove and may be, for example, a curved groove. Furthermore, like a front straight groove 45F shown in FIG. 22 , the first straight groove 27G does not need to extend to the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4G, and may instead communicate with an opening formed in the inner circumferential surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4G.

[0077] A second arcuate groove 28G having an arcuate shape and a second linear groove (second groove, second flow path) 29G having a linear shape are formed on the inner peripheral surface 21 of the cap body 2G.

[0078] The second arcuate groove 28G extends clockwise (in a second circumferential direction) C2 from the second duct 38G. One end 28Ga of the second arcuate groove 28G is connected to the second duct 38G. The one end 28Ga and the other end 28Gb of the second arcuate groove 28G are disposed at positions that form an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the central axis O1. Note that the one end 28Ga and the other end 28Gb of the second arcuate groove 28G may be disposed at positions that form an angle other than 90 degrees with respect to the central axis O1.

[0079] The second linear groove 29G extends along the axial direction A. One end 29Ga of the second linear groove 29G is connected to the other end 28Gb of the second arcuate groove 28G. The other end of the second linear groove 29G is a second opening 8G formed in the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4G. Note that the second linear groove 29G is not limited to a linear groove and may be, for example, a curved groove. Furthermore, like a front linear groove 45F shown in FIG. 22 , the second linear groove 29G does not need to extend to the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4G, but may instead communicate with an opening formed in the inner circumferential surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4G.

[0080] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100G communicates with the lumen 71r of the first tube 71, the conduit 50 of the holder 5, the first conduit 35G and first groove (first arcuate groove 26G and first linear groove 27G) of the cap body 2G, and the first opening 6G formed in the distal end surface 47 of the cap distal end portion 4G. That is, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100G is the first opening 6G formed in the cap distal end portion 4G of the cap 1G. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100G is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0081] Between the first opening 6G and the lumen 71r of the first tube 71, first grooves (first arc groove 26G and first straight groove 27G) are formed on the inner surface (21) of the cap body 2G, and the first grooves (first arc groove 26G and first straight groove 27G) are connected to the first opening 6G and the lumen 71r of the first tube 71.

[0082] In this embodiment, the water supply channel WR of the attachment 100G is connected to the lumen 72r of the second tube 72, the conduit 50 of the holder 5, the second conduit 38G and second grooves (the second arcuate groove 28G and the second linear groove 29G) of the cap body 2G, and the second opening 8G formed in the distal end surface 47 of the cap distal end portion 4G. That is, the distal end of the water supply channel WR of the attachment 100G is the second opening 8G formed in the cap distal end portion 4G of the cap 1G. The proximal end of the water supply channel WR of the attachment 100G is connected to the air / water supply pump 410.

[0083] Between the second opening 8G and the lumen 72r of the second tube 72, second grooves (second arc groove 28G and second straight groove 29G) are formed on the inner surface (21) of the cap body 2G, and the second grooves (second arc groove 28G and second straight groove 29G) are connected to the second opening 8G and the lumen 72r of the second tube 72.

[0084] The attachment 100G may have the suction passage SR and the water supply passage WR reversed. The attachment 100G may have two suction passages SR, using the water supply passage WR as the suction passage SR. The attachment 100G may have two water supply passages WR, using the suction passage SR as the water supply passage WR.

[0085] According to the attachment 100G according to this embodiment, by attaching it to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a water supply function to the endoscope 200 in addition to a suction function.

[0086] Although the third embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0087] (Variation 6) Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4H, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4G. Fig. 27 is a front view of the cap tip portion 4H as viewed from the tip side A1. The cap tip portion 4H has a tip surface 47H formed in an elliptical or other oblong shape. A tip opening 46H formed in the tip surface 47H of the cap tip portion 4H is also formed in an elliptical shape.

[0088] (Variation 7) Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of a cap tip portion 4P, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4G. Figure 29 is a front view of the cap tip portion 4P as seen from the tip side A1. The cap tip portion 4P is provided closer to the tip side A1 than the cap attachment portion 3G shown in the third embodiment. The lower half of the tip surface 47P of the cap tip portion 4P has a circular cross section, like the cap tip portion 4G shown in Figure 24. The upper half of the tip surface 47P of the cap tip portion 4P is formed in an elliptical or other oval shape, like the cap tip portion 4H shown in Figure 27. The tip surface 47P of the cap tip portion 4P has an asymmetric shape with respect to the central axis O1.

[0089] The first straight groove (first groove, first flow path) 27G does not extend to the tip surface 47P of the cap tip portion 4P, but communicates with an opening 6P formed in the inner circumferential surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4P. The second straight groove (second groove, second flow path) 29G does not extend to the tip surface 47P of the cap tip portion 4P, but communicates with an opening 8P formed in the inner circumferential surface 41 of the cap tip portion 4P.

[0090] (Variation 8) Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of a cap body 2Q, which is a variation of the cap body 2G. Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X4-X4 shown in Figure 30. Figure 32 is a front view of the cap body 2Q, as viewed from the tip side A1. The cap body 2Q has a cap attachment portion 3Q, which is a variation of the cap attachment portion 3G, and a cap tip portion 4Q, which is a variation of the cap tip portion 4G.

[0091] An arc-shaped first arc groove 26Q and a linear first straight groove 27Q are formed on the inner circumferential surface 21 of the cap body 2Q. Similarly to the third embodiment, an arc-shaped second arc groove 28G and a linear second straight groove 29G are also formed on the inner circumferential surface 21 of the cap body 2Q.

[0092] The first arc-shaped groove 26Q extends counterclockwise (in the first circumferential direction) C1 from the first pipe line 35G. One end 26Qa of the first arc-shaped groove 26Q is connected to the first pipe line 35G. The other end 26Qb of the first arc-shaped groove 26Q is located on the opposite side of the central axis O1 from the one end 26Qa of the first arc-shaped groove 26Q.

[0093] The first straight groove 27Q extends along the axial direction A. One end 27Qa of the first straight groove 27Q is connected to the other end 26Qb of the first arcuate groove 26Q. The other end of the first straight groove 27Q is a first opening 6Q formed in the tip surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4Q.

[0094] (Fourth embodiment) An attachment 100I according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 33 and 34. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0095] Figure 33 is a side view of the attachment 100I. Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment 100I. The attachment 100I includes a cap 1I and a tube 7. The cap 1I is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The tube 7 connects the cap 1I to the suction pump 430 and forms part of the suction path SR. The cap 1I is provided with an opening 6I of the suction path SR.

[0096] The cap 1I has a cap body 2I and a holder 5. The cap body 2I has a cap attachment portion 3I. The cap body 2I does not have a cap tip portion.

[0097] The cap attachment portion 3I is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1, and is attachable to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The cap attachment portion 3I is attached to the base end side A2 relative to the tip surface 203c of the endoscope 200. In other words, when the cap attachment portion 3I is attached to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the cap main body 2I including the cap attachment portion 3I is positioned closer to the base end side A2 than the tip portion 203 of the endoscope.

[0098] The cap attachment portion 3I has a conduit 35I that forms at least a part of the suction path SR. The conduit 35I is a path that extends in the axial direction A between the inner circumferential surface 31 and the outer circumferential surface 32 of the cap attachment portion 3I. The conduit 35I is connected to the conduit 50 of the holder 5. The conduit 35I is connected to an opening 6I formed in the outer circumferential surface 32. A plurality of openings 6I are provided, and they face radially outward R2. The plurality of openings 6I are arranged along the axial direction A.

[0099] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100I communicates with the opening 6I via the lumen 70 of the tube 7, the conduit 50 of the holder 5, and the conduit 35I of the cap attachment portion 3I. That is, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100I is the opening 6I formed in the cap attachment portion 3I of the cap 1I. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100I is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0100] According to the attachment 100I of this embodiment, by attaching it to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a more suitable fluid suction function to the endoscope 200. Even in a situation where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be preferably performed from the attachment 100I.

[0101] Although the fourth embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0102] Fifth Embodiment An attachment 100J according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 35. In the following description, components common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate description will be omitted.

[0103] 35 is a side view of the attachment 100J. The attachment 100J includes a cap 1J and a tube 7J. The cap 1J is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The tube 7J is connected to the suction pump 430 and forms a suction channel SR. An opening 6J of the suction channel SR is provided in the tube 7J.

[0104] The cap 1J includes a cap body 2J and a holder 5J. The cap body 2J includes a cap attachment portion 3J. The cap body 2J does not include a cap tip portion.

[0105] The cap attachment portion 3J is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1, and is attachable to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The cap attachment portion 3J is attached to a position closer to the base end A2 than the tip surface 203c of the endoscope 200. In other words, when the cap attachment portion 3J is attached to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the cap body 2J including the cap attachment portion 3J is positioned closer to the base end A2 than the tip portion 203 of the endoscope.

[0106] The holder 5J is provided on the outer peripheral surface 22 of the cap body 2J and protrudes radially outward R2 from the outer peripheral surface 22. The holder 5J holds the tube 7J with the tube 7J passing through it in the axial direction A. The holder 5J is located closer to the base end A2 than the tip of the cap 1J.

[0107] The tube 7J is arranged along the insertion portion 202 of the endoscope 200 and is connected to the suction pump 430. A plurality of openings 6J are provided at the tip of the tube 7J. The openings 6J are located on the tip side A1 with respect to the holder 5J. It is sufficient that at least one opening 6J is provided at the tip of the tube 7J.

[0108] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100J communicates with the opening 6J via the lumen 70 of the tube 7J. That is, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100J is the opening 6J formed at the distal end of the tube 7J. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100J is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0109] According to the attachment 100J of this embodiment, by attaching it to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a more suitable fluid suction function to the endoscope 200. Even in a situation where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be preferably performed from the attachment 100J.

[0110] Although the fifth embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0111] 36 is a diagram showing a modified example of the tube 7J. The tip of the tube 7J may have an inclined surface 73.

[0112] 37 is a diagram showing a modified example of the holder 5J. The holder 5J may further include a pipe 54 made of a resin harder than the tube 7. A distal end 54a of the pipe 54 protrudes from the holder 5J toward the distal end side A1. The distal end 54a of the pipe 54 has at least one opening 6J. In this case, the holder 5J is connected to the tube 7. The opening 6J and the internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7 are in communication.

[0113] Sixth Embodiment An attachment 100K according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 38 and 39. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0114] 38 is a side view of the attachment 100K. The attachment 100K includes a cap 1K and a tube 7K. The cap 1K is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The tube 7K is connected to the suction pump 430 and forms a suction channel SR. An opening 6K of the suction channel SR is provided in the tube 7K.

[0115] The cap 1K has a cap body 2K, a holder 5K, and a lift 9K. The cap body 2K has a cap attachment portion 3K and a cap tip portion 4K. The holder 5K has a tube 55 through which the tube 7K passes. The tube 55 is fixed to the holder 5K.

[0116] The cap attachment portion 3K is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1, and can be attached to the tip portion 203 of the endoscope 200.

[0117] The cap tip portion 4K is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis O1 and is provided on the distal side A1 of the cap attachment portion 3K. When the cap attachment portion 3K is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200, the cap tip portion 4K is positioned on the distal side A1 of the endoscope distal end portion 203. A circular distal opening 46 is formed in a distal end surface 47 of the cap tip portion 4K.

[0118] The holder 5K is provided on the outer peripheral surface 32 of the cap attachment portion 3K and protrudes radially outward R2 from the outer peripheral surface 32. The holder 5K supports the tube 7K that penetrates in the axial direction A so that the tube 7K can move back and forth.

[0119] The tube 7K is arranged along the insertion section 202 of the endoscope 200 and is connected to the suction pump 430. A plurality of openings 6K are provided at the tip of the tube 7K. It is sufficient that at least one opening 6K is provided at the tip of the tube 7K.

[0120] FIG. 39 is a side view of the attachment 100K with the tube 7K advanced and retracted by the lift 9K. The lift 9K is a mechanism for advancing and retracting and bending the tube 7K. The lift 9K has an arm 91 and a support 92. The rotation fulcrum 9a of the arm 91 is rotatably attached to the cap tip 4K. The support 92 is connected to the free rotation end 9b of the arm 91. The support 92 holds the tip of the tube 7K. By rotating the arm 91, the lift 9K can advance and retract the tube 7K in the axial direction A. Furthermore, by rotating the arm 91, the lift 9K can bend the tube 7K. The opening 6K of the bent tube 7K is positioned near the tip opening 46 of the cap tip 4K. Therefore, during underwater endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), liquid W containing blood, dirt, etc., which impairs the endoscopic field of view through the observation window 203w, can be efficiently aspirated. The arm 91 is not necessarily limited to a highly rigid material, but may be made of a flexible filament (such as suture thread or wire).

[0121] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100K communicates with the opening 6K via the lumen 70 of the tube 7K. That is, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100K is the opening 6K formed at the distal end of the tube 7K. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100K is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0122] According to the attachment 100K of this embodiment, by attaching it to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a more suitable fluid suction function to the endoscope 200. Even in a situation where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be preferably performed from the attachment 100K.

[0123] Although the sixth embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0124] Seventh Embodiment An attachment 100L according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 40. In the following description, components common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0125] 40 is a side view of the attachment 100L. The attachment 100L includes a cap 1L and a tube 7. The cap 1L is attached to the distal end portion 203 of the endoscope 200. The cap 1L has a cap body 2K and a holder 5L. The tube 7 connects the cap 1L to the suction pump 430 and forms part of the suction path SR. The cap 1L is provided with an opening 6L of the suction path SR.

[0126] The holder 5L is provided on the outer peripheral surface 22 of the cap body 2K and protrudes radially outward R2 from the outer peripheral surface 22. The holder 5L holds the tube 7. The holder 5L is made of a resin that is harder than the tube 7. The holder 5L has a conduit 50. The internal space (lumen) 70 of the tube 7 held in the holder 5L is in communication with the conduit 50 of the holder 5L.

[0127] The holder 5L has an opening 6L that communicates with the pipeline 50. The opening 6L faces in the circumferential direction C.

[0128] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100L communicates with the opening 6L formed in the holder 5L from the lumen 70 of the tube 7 via the conduit 50 of the holder 5L. That is, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100L is the opening 6L formed in the holder 5L. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100L is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0129] According to the attachment 100L of this embodiment, by attaching it to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a more suitable fluid suction function to the endoscope 200. Even in a situation where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be preferably performed from the attachment 100L.

[0130] Although the seventh embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0131] Eighth Embodiment An attachment 100M according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 41. In the following description, components common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals and redundant description will be omitted.

[0132] 41 is a perspective view of the attachment 100M. The attachment 100M has a multi-lumen tube 110. The endoscope 200 is inserted through a first lumen 111 of the multi-lumen tube 110. A second lumen 112 of the multi-lumen tube 110 forms at least a part of the suction channel SR.

[0133] In this embodiment, the suction channel SR of the attachment 100M communicates with the opening 6M of the second lumen 112 via the second lumen 112 of the multi-lumen tube 110. That is, the distal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100M is the opening 6M of the second lumen 112. The proximal end of the suction channel SR of the attachment 100M is connected to a suction pump (suction source) 430.

[0134] According to the attachment 100M of this embodiment, by attaching it to the endoscope 200, it is possible to add a more suitable fluid suction function to the endoscope 200. Even in a situation where it is difficult to use the suction function of the endoscope 200, such as when a treatment tool is inserted into the channel 206 of the endoscope 200, suction can be preferably performed from the attachment 100M.

[0135] Although the eighth embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be configured by appropriately combining them.

[0136] The present invention can be applied to endoscopes and the like.

[0137] 300 Endoscopic treatment system 200 Endoscope 100, 100E, 100G, 100I, 100J, 100K, 100L, 100M Attachment (endoscopic attachment, endoscopic treatment tool) 1, 1E, 1G, 1I, 1J, 1K, 1L Cap (hood) 2, 2E, 2G, 2I, 2J, 2K, 2Q Cap body 21 Inner peripheral surface 22 Outer peripheral surface 26G First arc-shaped groove 26Ga One end 26Gb Other end 26Q First arc-shaped groove 26Qa One end 26Qb Other end 27G First linear groove (first groove, first flow path) 27Ga One end 27Q First linear groove 27Qa One end 28G Second arc-shaped groove 28Ga One end 28Gb Other end 29G Second straight groove (second groove, second flow path) 29Ga One end 3, 3E, 3G, 3I, 3J, 3K, 3Q Cap attachment part 30 Internal space 31 Inner peripheral surface 32 Outer peripheral surface 35 Pipe 35G First pipe 35I Pipe 36 Arc groove 36a One end 36b Other end 37 Rear straight groove (proximal groove, proximal flow path) 37a One end 37b Other end 38G Second conduit 4, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F, 4G, 4H, 4K, 4P, 4Q Cap tip 40 Internal space 41 Inner peripheral surface 42 Outer peripheral surface 43 Stopper 43a Groove 44 Proximal opening 45 Conduit 45B Pipeline 45C Pipeline 45D Pipeline 45E Front straight groove (tip groove, tip flow path) 45Ea One end 45Eb Other end 45F Front straight groove (tip groove, tip flow path) 45Fa One end 45Fb Other end 46, 46H Tip opening 47, 47H, 47P Tip surface 5, 5J, 5K, 5L Holder 50 Pipe 54 Pipe 55 Tube 55a Tip portion 6, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, 6I, 6J, 6K, 6L, 6M, 6P, 6Q Opening (first opening) 7, 7G, 7J, 7K Tube 70 Internal space (lumen) 71 First tube 72 Second tube 8G, 8P Opening (second opening) 9K Lift 91 Arm 92 Support portion A Central axis direction (axial direction) A1 Tip side (distal side) A2 Base side (proximal side) C Circumferential direction C1 First circumferential direction C2 Second circumferential direction R Radial direction R1 Radially inner side R2 Radially outer side SR Suction channel WR Water supply channel

Claims

1. An endoscopic attachment comprising: a tube that forms at least a portion of a suction path; and a cap that can be attached to an endoscope, wherein the base end of the suction path is connectable to a suction source, the tip end of the suction path is an opening formed in the cap, and the cap has a holder that holds the tube.

2. The endoscope attachment according to claim 1, wherein the opening is located inside the cap.

3. An endoscope attachment according to claim 1, wherein the opening is located on the outside of the cap.

4. An endoscope attachment according to claim 1, wherein the tip of the tube is fixed within the cap, the cap has a channel communicating with the inside of the tube, and the opening communicates with the channel and is formed on the tip surface of the cap.

5. An endoscope attachment according to claim 1, wherein the tip of the tube is fixed within the cap, the cap has a channel communicating with the inside of the tube, and the opening communicates with the channel and is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the cap.

6. An endoscopic attachment according to claim 1, wherein the tip of the tube is fixed within the cap, the cap has a conduit communicating with the inside of the tube, the conduit being a groove formed in the inner wall of the cap, and the opening communicates with the groove and is formed on the tip surface of the cap.

7. An endoscope attachment according to claim 1, wherein the opening faces radially outward from the cap.

8. An endoscopic attachment as described in claim 1, wherein the opening is formed on the tip surface of the cap, the opening is located on the opposite side of the endoscope channel from the observation window in the radial direction of the endoscope, the tube is located on the opposite side of the observation window from the channel, a groove is formed on the inner surface of the cap between the opening and the inside of the tube, and the groove communicates with the opening and the inside of the tube.

9. An endoscopic attachment as described in claim 1, further comprising a second tube forming at least a portion of a water supply channel, a second opening formed on the distal end surface of the cap, a second groove formed on the inner peripheral surface of the cap between the second opening and the interior of the tube, and the second groove communicating with the second opening and the interior of the second tube.

10. An endoscope attachment as described in claim 1, wherein the holder protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the cap and is formed of a resin harder than the tube, and the opening is formed at the tip of the holder and communicates with the inside of the tube.

11. An endoscope attachment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the holder has a pipe made of a resin harder than the tube, the tip of the pipe protruding from the holder, the tip of the pipe having at least one opening which communicates with the inside of the tube.

12. An endoscope attachment according to claim 1, wherein the opening is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cap, and a protrusion is provided on at least a portion of the periphery of the opening.

13. An endoscope attachment according to claim 12, wherein the protrusion has at least one slit.

14. An endoscopic attachment as described in claim 1, wherein the cap has a cap tip portion and a cap base portion, the holder has a convex shape that protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cap tip portion, a portion of the holder overlaps with the inner peripheral surface of the cap tip portion in the longitudinal axis direction, and the opening is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the cap tip portion located inside the portion of the holder.

15. An endoscopic attachment as described in claim 1, wherein the cap has a cap tip and a cap base, the inner surface of the cap has a protrusion that abuts against the tip of the endoscope, the opening is formed in part of the protrusion and communicates with a groove formed in the inner surface of the cap base, and the groove communicates with the inside of the tube to form a suction path.

16. An endoscopic attachment comprising: a tube forming at least a portion of a suction path; and a cap attachable to an endoscope, wherein the cap has a holder for holding the tube, the base end of the suction path is connectable to a suction source, the holder is located closer to the base end than the tip of the cap, and the opening of the suction path is closer to the tip of the cap than the holder.

17. An endoscope attachment according to claim 16, wherein the tip of the tube protrudes further distally than the holder, and the tube has at least one opening on its outer peripheral surface.

18. An endoscope attachment according to claim 16, wherein the tube is freely movable forward and backward relative to the cap.

19. An endoscope attachment according to claim 16, wherein the tube is freely bendable relative to the cap.

20. An endoscopic attachment comprising: a tube forming at least a portion of a suction path; and a cap attachable to an endoscope, wherein the distal end of the tube is attached to the cap; and an opening of the suction path is provided in the cap so as to suck liquid outside the cap.

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