CN219306663U - Photoacoustic endoscope and endoscope system - Google Patents

Abstract

The utility model provides a photoacoustic endoscope and an endoscope system. The photoacoustic endoscope comprises an insertion portion, a head end portion is arranged at the distal end of the insertion portion, photoacoustic excitation light exits from the distal end of the head end portion, an optical fiber for transmitting the photoacoustic excitation light comprises a first optical fiber section and a second optical fiber section, the distal end of the first optical fiber section is connected to the distal end of the head end portion, a first connector is connected to the proximal end of the first optical fiber section, the second optical fiber section extends from the proximal end of the insertion portion to the head end seat, a second connector is connected to the distal end of the second optical fiber section, and the first connector is detachably connected to the second connector. The photoacoustic endoscope divides the optical fiber into two sections, and the first connector and the second connector are arranged at the joint of the two sections of optical fibers, so that when the first optical fiber section or the second optical fiber section needs to be disassembled, the connection between the first connector and the second connector can be released, and after the first connector and the second connector are separated, the purpose of maintaining or replacing the optical fiber can be achieved. Such a photoacoustic endoscope is better in maintainability and better in user experience.

Description

Photoacoustic endoscope and endoscope system

Technical Field

The utility model relates to the technical field of medical instruments, in particular to a photoacoustic endoscope and an endoscope system.

Background

The endoscopic imaging is used as a noninvasive imaging method, can effectively prolong the human sight, is widely applied to image diagnosis and image-guided treatment in various fields such as digestive tracts, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, urinary systems, respiratory systems and the like, and greatly promotes the examination precision of diseases.

In recent years, photoacoustic imaging technology among endoscopic imaging technologies has been rapidly developed, and photoacoustic endoscopes are increasingly used in clinic. Photoacoustic endoscopes are devices that excite ultrasonic waves (photoacoustic signals) by introducing photoacoustic excitation light into a biological lumen through an endoscope probe, and then image tissue by receiving the generated ultrasonic signals through a miniature ultrasonic transducer placed in an endoscope catheter.

However, in the photoacoustic endoscope, an optical fiber that transmits photoacoustic excitation light passes through a bending portion, and a fiber is easily broken after a long clinical use time, which affects an image effect. Therefore, there is a clinical need for a photoacoustic endoscope whose photoacoustic excitation light fiber can be easily disassembled for maintenance.

Disclosure of Invention

In order to solve at least in part the problems existing in the prior art, according to one aspect of the present utility model, a photoacoustic endoscope is provided. The photoacoustic endoscope comprises an insertion portion, a head end portion is arranged at the distal end of the insertion portion, photoacoustic excitation light exits from the distal end of the head end portion, the head end portion comprises a head end seat, an optical fiber for transmitting the photoacoustic excitation light comprises a first optical fiber section and a second optical fiber section, the distal end of the first optical fiber section is connected to the distal end of the head end portion, the proximal end of the first optical fiber section is connected with a first connector, the second optical fiber section extends from the proximal end of the insertion portion to the head end seat, the distal end of the second optical fiber section is connected with a second connector, the first connector is detachably connected to the second connector, and the proximal end face of the first optical fiber section and the distal end face of the second optical fiber section are connected to the second connector through the first connector to achieve optical coupling.

The optoacoustic endoscope provided by the application divides the optical fiber for conducting the optoacoustic excitation light into two sections, namely a first optical fiber section and a second optical fiber section, and a first joint and a second joint are arranged at the joint of the two sections of optical fibers, when the first joint is connected with the second joint, the first optical fiber section and the second optical fiber section can realize optical coupling, so that various lights such as the optoacoustic excitation light or illumination light can be normally transmitted in the optoacoustic endoscope. When the first optical fiber segment or the second optical fiber segment needs to be disassembled, the connection between the first connector and the second connector can be released. The distal end of the first optical fiber segment is usually fixedly connected to the distal end of the head end, the first optical fiber segment is not easily damaged during use, the second optical fiber segment is easily broken through the bending part, and the second optical fiber segment can be pulled out from the operation part after the first connector and the second connector are separated, so that the purpose of maintaining or replacing the optical fiber is achieved. Such a photoacoustic endoscope is better in maintainability and better in user experience.

Illustratively, the head end seat is provided with a cavity, the opening of the cavity is provided with a removable cover, and the first connector and the second connector are disposed within the cavity.

Illustratively, the first optical fiber segment includes a curved sub-segment positioned within the cavity, the curved sub-segment having a length such that the first splice can be pulled out of the cavity.

Illustratively, a wire harness portion is disposed within the cavity, and the curved sub-segment is limited by the wire harness portion.

Illustratively, the harness portion includes a post upon which the curved subsections are wrapped.

Illustratively, the proximal end of the first optical fiber segment is heat-melt cured or glued to the first joint; and/or the distal end of the second optical fiber segment is heat-cured or glued to the second joint.

Illustratively, an optical coupling portion is disposed within the first and/or second connector, the optical coupling portion being optically coupled between the proximal end face of the first optical fiber segment and the distal end face of the second optical fiber segment.

Illustratively, the optical coupling portion includes one or more of a light guide rod, a fiber rod, and a lens group.

Illustratively, the first splice comprises a first splice tube into which a proximal end of the first optical fiber section is inserted and connected, and the second splice comprises a second splice tube into which a distal end of the second optical fiber section is inserted and connected, the first and second splice tubes being detachably connected.

Illustratively, a first protective sheath is sleeved on the first optical fiber section, a first inner sleeve is coaxially arranged at the distal end of the first connector tube, the outer diameter of the first inner sleeve is smaller than that of the first connector tube, the first optical fiber section is arranged in the first inner sleeve in a penetrating mode, and the proximal end of the first protective sheath is sleeved on the first inner sleeve.

The first inner sleeve is provided with a first annular groove on its outer side wall, and the first protective skin is fastened to the first inner sleeve by means of a fastening wire wound around the first annular groove.

Illustratively, a second protecting sheath is sleeved on the second optical fiber section, a second inner sleeve is coaxially arranged at the proximal end of the second joint pipe, the outer diameter of the second inner sleeve is smaller than that of the second joint pipe, the second optical fiber section is arranged in the second inner sleeve in a penetrating mode, and the distal end of the second protecting sheath is sleeved on the second inner sleeve.

The second inner sleeve is provided with a second annular groove on its outer side wall, and the second protective skin is fastened to the second inner sleeve by means of fastening threads wound around the second annular groove.

Illustratively, one of the first joint pipe and the second joint pipe is provided with an internal thread, and the other of the first joint pipe and the second joint pipe is provided with an external thread, the internal thread being connected to the external thread.

Illustratively, the first joint pipe is provided with external threads, the distal end of the first joint pipe is provided with a first tool connection slot, and the distal pipe orifice of the first joint pipe exposes the first tool connection slot; or the second joint pipe is provided with external threads, the proximal end of the second joint pipe is provided with a second tool connection slot, and the pipe orifice at the proximal end of the second joint pipe exposes the second tool connection slot.

Illustratively, the numerical aperture of the first optical fiber segment is greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the second optical fiber segment; and/or the cross-section of the first optical fiber segment is greater than or equal to the cross-section of the second optical fiber segment.

Illustratively, an ultrasonic probe is disposed on the head end mount, and a joint assembly including a first joint and a second joint is disposed closer to a proximal end of the insertion portion than the ultrasonic probe.

Illustratively, the head end further includes a forceps lifter thereon, the joint assembly being disposed side-by-side with the forceps lifter along a first lateral direction perpendicular to the axis of the insertion section.

Illustratively, the head end further includes an optical imaging assembly thereon, the clamp lifter and the joint assembly being located on one side and the optical imaging assembly being located on the other side along a second lateral direction perpendicular to the first lateral direction and the axis.

According to another aspect of the present utility model, there is provided an endoscope system comprising any one of the photoacoustic endoscopes described above.

In the summary, a series of concepts in a simplified form are introduced, which will be further described in detail in the detailed description section. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Advantages and features of the utility model are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The following drawings are included to provide an understanding of the utility model and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. Embodiments of the present utility model and their description are shown in the drawings to explain the principles of the utility model. In the drawings of which there are shown,

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an endoscope system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a photoacoustic endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the head end shown in FIG. 2 in another direction;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the head end shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the head end shown in FIG. 2;

fig. 6 is a perspective view of the head end shown in fig. 2 in yet another direction;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the head end shown in FIG. 6 with the removable cover opened;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a joint assembly of a photoacoustic endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model;

fig. 9A is an assembled perspective view of a joint assembly of a photoacoustic endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model; and

fig. 9B is a perspective view of the connector assembly of fig. 9A after disassembly.

Wherein the above figures include the following reference numerals:

10. a photoacoustic endoscope; 11. a light guide section; 12. an insertion section; 121. an insertion tube; 122. a bending portion; 13. a head end portion; 14. a head end seat; 15. an ultrasonic probe; 16. a clamp lifter; 17. an optical imaging assembly; 171. an illumination light window; 172. a camera; 18. a light source device; 19. a processing device; 20. a display; 21. an endoscope system; 22. an operation unit; 23. an ultrasonic connector; 100. a first optical fiber segment; 110. a first joint; 111. a first joint pipe; 120. bending the sub-section; 130. a first protective skin; 140. a first inner sleeve; 141. a first annular groove; 200. a second optical fiber segment; 210. a second joint; 211. a second joint pipe; 212. the second tool is connected with the slot; 220. a second protective skin; 230. a second inner sleeve; 300. a cavity; 320. a removable cover; 330. a wire harness section; 400. a joint assembly; 500. the photoacoustic excites the optical window.

Detailed Description

In the following description, numerous details are provided to provide a thorough understanding of the utility model. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the following description illustrates preferred embodiments of the utility model by way of example only and that the utility model may be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, some technical features that are known in the art have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the utility model.

According to one aspect of the present utility model, as shown in fig. 2, aphotoacoustic endoscope 10 is provided. The photoacoustic excitation optical fiber of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 is divided into two sections, the two sections are connected through a joint assembly, and the photoacoustic excitation optical fiber can be detached at the joint assembly, so that the photoacoustic endoscope can be maintained conveniently. According to another aspect of the present utility model, as shown in FIG. 1, anendoscope system 21 is provided. Theendoscope system 21 may include any of thephotoacoustic endoscopes 10 that will be described herein. Illustratively, theendoscope system 21 may also include alight source device 18, aprocessing device 19, adisplay 20, and an ultrasound host (not shown). The irradiation light and/or photoacoustic excitation light generated by thelight source device 18 may be conducted to the distal end of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 for imaging, and theprocessing device 19 processes the image signal acquired by the optical imaging device of the distal end of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 and displays it on thedisplay 20.Photoacoustic endoscope 10 may transmit an ultrasonic signal to an ultrasonic host throughultrasonic connector 23, the ultrasonic host may process the ultrasonic signal, and the processing result may be displayed ondisplay 20.

For convenience of description, the distal end mentioned below refers to an end of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 that is closer to an object to be observed when the operator uses thephotoacoustic endoscope 10; the proximal end referred to hereinafter refers to an end of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 that is closer to the operator when the operator uses thephotoacoustic endoscope 10.

Thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 may include aninsertion portion 12, theinsertion portion 12 may be inserted into the body of the observed object, and a distal end of theinsertion portion 12 may be provided with ahead end portion 13, and typically, thehead end portion 13 is hard. In addition to thehead end 13, theinsertion part 12 may also comprise aninsertion tube 121 with graduations and a bendingpart 122 enabling different direction swinging. An operatingportion 22 may be attached to the proximal end of theinsertion portion 12.

As shown in fig. 3, thehead end 13 may be provided with a photoacoustic excitationlight window 500, and thehead end 13 may include ahead end seat 14. Photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may be disposed onhead end mount 14. The photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may have various shapes as needed, the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may be provided on thehead end seat 14 by various forms of welding, screwing or clamping, etc., and the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may form a part of the housing of thehead end 13 on thehead end seat 14. Thehead end seat 14 can be designed into various shapes according to the requirement, thehead end seat 14 can be used for bearing the internal components of thehead end 13, and thehead end seat 14 can be used as a carrier for multifunctional integration of thehead end 13. Preferably, thehead end seat 14 may be made of a plastic material, and such ahead end seat 14 may have a good insulation effect.

Preferably, the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may be fully transparent, and the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may be made of a non-metallic material, i.e. the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may comprise the form of a fully transparent non-metallic material light window. Preferably, the outer surface of the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may also be of a hydrophobic design, so that food waste, mucus, etc. adhering to the surface of the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may be reduced from the body cavity mucosal surface of the observed object. The photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may change the emission path of the photoacoustic excitation light beam to form a better photoacoustic excitation light field, and the photoacoustic excitation light may exit from the distal end of thehead end portion 13, that is, the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may be an exit from which the photoacoustic excitation light is emitted from thehead end portion 13. Preferably, the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 may include a light refracting means such that the photoacoustic excitation light may be emitted from the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 at a preset emission angle. The light refracting means may be a prism (e.g. a trapezoidal prism).

An optical fiber transmitting photoacoustic excitation light may be threaded through theinsertion portion 12 and extend into thehead end seat 14 to conduct the photoacoustic excitation light out of the distal end of thehead end portion 13. The optical fiber can be a single-mode optical fiber or a multi-mode optical fiber. As shown in fig. 6, the optical fiber transmitting the photoacoustic excitation light may include a firstoptical fiber segment 100 and a secondoptical fiber segment 200.

The distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be connected to the distal end of thehead end 13. The distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be aligned with the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500, and the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may have a form matching the shape of the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500, and in the embodiment shown in fig. 6, the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 has a cambered shape, and correspondingly, the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be bifurcated into a fan shape, so that the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is aligned with the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500 more effectively. Typically, the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is bonded within thehead end 13.

The secondoptical fiber segment 200 may extend from the proximal end of theinsertion portion 12 to thehead end seat 14. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1 and 4, the proximal end of the secondoptical fiber segment 200 may be connected to an external photoacoustic excitation light source, which may generate photoacoustic excitation light that passes through the secondoptical fiber segment 200 to thehead end seat 14.

Afirst connector 110 may be connected to the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100, asecond connector 210 may be connected to the distal end of the secondoptical fiber segment 200, and thefirst connector 110 may be detachably connected to thesecond connector 210. Thefirst connector 110 may be attached to the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber span 100 by various means such as adhesive attachment, welding, snap-fit or threaded attachment. Similarly, thesecond connector 210 may be attached to the distal end of thesecond fiber segment 200 by various means such as adhesive, welding, snap-fit, or threaded connection. The first joint 110 and the second joint 210 may have a cylindrical structure, a prismatic structure, or the like. The first andsecond joints 110 and 210 may be designed in various shapes as needed, for example, the first andsecond joints 110 and 210 may be prismatic or cylindrical. The first joint 110 and the second joint 210 may have the same shape or may have different shapes. The connection between thefirst connector 110 and thesecond connector 210 may be a threaded connection or a snap-fit connection, or any other type of removable connection. The first andsecond connectors 110 and 210 may be made of a metal material or an insulating material such as plastic.

The proximal end face of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 and the distal end face of the secondoptical fiber segment 200 may be optically coupled by afirst connector 110 connected to asecond connector 210. When thefirst connector 110 is connected to thesecond connector 210, the proximal end face of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 and the distal end face of the secondoptical fiber segment 200 may achieve optical coupling, which means that various light such as photoacoustic excitation light or illumination light may be transferred between thefirst connector 110 and thesecond connector 210.

Thephotoacoustic endoscope 10 provided by the application divides the optical fiber for transmitting the photoacoustic excitation light into two sections, namely the firstoptical fiber section 100 and the secondoptical fiber section 200, and thefirst connector 110 and thesecond connector 210 are arranged at the joint of the two sections of optical fibers, when thefirst connector 110 and thesecond connector 210 are connected, the optical coupling of the firstoptical fiber section 100 and the secondoptical fiber section 200 can be realized, so that various light such as the photoacoustic excitation light or illumination light can be normally transmitted in thephotoacoustic endoscope 10. When the first or secondoptical fiber segment 100 or 200 needs to be disassembled, the connection of the first andsecond connectors 110 and 210 may be released. The distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is generally fixedly connected to the distal end of thehead end 13, the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is not easily damaged during use, the secondoptical fiber segment 200 is easily broken when passing through the bending portion, and the secondoptical fiber segment 200 can be pulled out from theoperation portion 22 after thefirst connector 110 and thesecond connector 210 are separated, so as to achieve the purpose of maintaining or replacing the optical fiber. Such aphotoacoustic endoscope 10 is better serviceable and better user experience.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 3, anultrasonic probe 15 may be provided on thehead end mount 14. Anultrasonic probe 15 may be disposed at the distal end of thehead end mount 14. Theultrasonic probe 15 and thehead end seat 14 can be fixedly connected, and theultrasonic probe 15 can be arranged at the distal end of thehead end seat 14 in various modes such as bonding, threaded connection or clamping connection. Theultrasound probe 15 may include an ultrasound transducer that may transmit and receive ultrasound waves to form an ultrasound image. Theultrasonic probe 15 as used herein may receive ultrasonic waves, that is, theultrasonic probe 15 may not only receive ultrasonic echoes formed by ultrasonic waves emitted by itself, but also receive ultrasonic echoes generated by irradiation of photoacoustic excitation light on an object to be observed, where the photoacoustic excitation light may be emitted from thehead end 13 through the photoacoustic excitationlight window 500. Theultrasonic probe 15 may be connected with an external ultrasonic-photoacoustic host, theultrasonic probe 15 may transmit the received ultrasonic wave to the external ultrasonic-photoacoustic host, and through the ultrasonic-photoacoustic host processing, an imaging mode such as ultrasonic imaging, photoacoustic imaging or ultrasonic-photoacoustic fusion imaging may be realized.

For convenience of description and illustration, the first joint 110 and the second joint 210 are collectively referred to as ajoint assembly 400 hereinafter. As shown in fig. 3 and 7, thejoint assembly 400 may be closer to the proximal end of theinsertion portion 12 than theultrasonic probe 15. Theultrasound probe 15 is closer to the distal end of theinsertion portion 12 than thejoint assembly 400. Theultrasonic probe 15 is positioned at the most distal end of theinsertion portion 12, and the detection effect can be improved. Thejoint assembly 400 is closer to the proximal end of theinsertion portion 12 than theultrasonic probe 15, so that thejoint assembly 400 is spaced apart from theultrasonic probe 15 on the axis P-P of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10, and damage to theultrasonic probe 15 due to erroneous operation when thejoint assembly 400 is detached can be avoided. And the distal end of thehead end 13 tends to have a complicated internal structure, which is disadvantageous in terms of the arrangement of thejoint assembly 400, and thejoint assembly 400 is closer to the proximal end of thehead end 13 than theultrasonic probe 15, which can facilitate the disassembly of thejoint assembly 400. In addition, the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is generally fixedly connected to the distal end of thehead end 13, and the further thejoint assembly 400 is from the distal end of thehead end 13, the less easily the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 can be pulled when thejoint assembly 400 is disassembled, preventing the fixation of the distal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 to thehead end 13 from being affected.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 3, thehead end 13 may further include aforceps lifter 16 thereon, and theforceps lifter 16 may be used to operate a clinical medical instrument. Thehead end 13 can be provided with an instrument channel, theforceps lifter 16 can be arranged in the instrument channel, a steel wire rope can be arranged in the instrument channel, and theforceps lifter 16 can be pulled to rotate for a certain angle through the steel wire rope, so that the extending direction of the clinical medical instrument is changed. Thejoint assembly 400 may be disposed side-by-side with thejaw lifter 16 along a first lateral direction M-M perpendicular to the axis of theinsertion portion 12, as shown in fig. 7. This may facilitate disassembly of thejoint assembly 400.

Illustratively, as shown in FIG. 3, thehead end 13 may also include anoptical imaging assembly 17 thereon. Theoptical imaging assembly 17 may include an illuminationlight window 171, acamera 172, etc., and theoptical imaging assembly 17 may be used for optical imaging. Along a second lateral direction L-L perpendicular to the first lateral direction M-M and the axis P-P, theforceps holder 16 and thejoint assembly 400 may be located on one side and theoptical imaging assembly 17 may be located on the other side. The secondoptical fiber segment 200 may be bifurcated at any position in thelight guide portion 11, theoperation portion 22, or theinsertion portion 12, one of which may conduct illumination light to theoptical imaging assembly 17 and the other of which may conduct photoacoustic excitation light to thejoint assembly 400. Thesplice assembly 400 and theoptical imaging assembly 17 are positioned on opposite sides of thehead end portion 13 in the second lateral direction L-L, respectively, so that the optical fiber lines can be prevented from being excessively complicated when thesplice assembly 400 and theoptical imaging assembly 17 are positioned on the same side of thehead end portion 13 in the second lateral direction L-L. Thejoint assembly 400 and theoptical imaging assembly 17 are respectively located at two sides of thehead end 13 in the second lateral direction L-L, so that thejoint assembly 400 can be conveniently disassembled, the internal space of thehead end 13 can be reasonably utilized, the volume of the whole device can be reduced, and the user experience is better.

For example, as shown in fig. 6-7, acavity 300 may be provided in thehead end seat 14, thecavity 300 may provide space for the placement of thejoint assembly 400, and the first joint 110 and the second joint 210 may be disposed within thecavity 300. The opening of thecavity 300 may be provided with aremovable cover 320, and when thejoint assembly 400 needs to be removed, theremovable cover 320 may be removed, thereby removing thejoint assembly 400. Thedetachable cover 320 can protect the internal structure of thecavity 300 during normal use of thephotoacoustic endoscope 10, can reduce external interference to thejoint assembly 400, and improves the stability of the overall device. In other embodiments not shown, theremovable cover 320 may not be provided. In this case, the opening of thecavity 300 may face thecurved portion 122. After thehead end seat 14 is connected to thebight portion 122, the opening of thecavity 300 is plugged.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 5 and 7, the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may include acurved sub-segment 120 positioned within thecavity 300, the length of thecurved sub-segment 120 may be such that thefirst connector 110 may be pulled out of thecavity 300. The distal end of thefirst fiber segment 100 is often fixedly connected to thephotoacoustic excitation window 500, so that the range of motion of the proximal end of thefirst fiber segment 100 is limited, and thefirst fiber segment 100 is left redundant, which may make it easier to pull thefirst connector 110 out of thecavity 300. The proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be reserved for a length to form abent sub-segment 120, and the proximal end of thebent sub-segment 120 may be connected to thefirst connector 110. Thus, when thejoint assembly 400 needs to be disassembled, the first joint 110 can be pulled out of thecavity 300, and thejoint assembly 400 can be pulled out of thecavity 300, so that the disassembly operation of thejoint assembly 400 is facilitated. If thesecond fiber segment 200 is desired to be pulled, the proximal end of thesecond fiber segment 200 may be removed at thelight guide 11, drawing some margin from the distal end of thesecond fiber segment 200 for thesecond connector 210 to pull out thecavity 300. In an embodiment not shown, the secondoptical fiber segment 200 positioned within thehandle portion 22 may be provided with optical fiber splices such that the secondoptical fiber segment 200 may be divided into a proximal segment and a distal segment, which may be connected by the various optical fiber splices provided herein. When it is desired to pull out thesecond fiber segment 200, thesecond connector 210 and thefirst connector 110 may be disconnected, and the fiber connectors in the operatingportion 22 may be disconnected, so that the distal end segment of thesecond fiber segment 200 may be pulled out without constraint.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 7, awire harness portion 330 may be disposed within thecavity 300, and thebent sub-section 120 may be restrained by thewire harness portion 330. Theharness portion 330 may have various shapes such as a cylindrical boss or a prismatic boss. For example, when thewire harness portion 330 is in the shape of a prismatic boss, thebent sub-section 120 may be wound around thewire harness portion 330, and the arrangement of thewire harness portion 330 may prevent thebent sub-section 120 from being placed too irregularly in thecavity 300. Thus, the structure of thecavity 300 is simpler and the overall device is more stable. Preferably, theharness portion 330 may include a post, and thebent sub-section 120 may be wound around the post. Theharness portion 330 in the form of a stud is simple in structure and easy to implement. Alternatively, thewire harness 330 may be various types of wire buckles as long as thebent sub-section 120 can be fixed.

Illustratively, the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be heat-cured or glued to the first joint 110. Thefirst connector 110 is fixedly connected to the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 in a hot melt cured or glued form, and the fixed connection between thefirst connector 110 and the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is more stable. Similarly, the distal end of the secondoptical fiber section 200 may also be heat-cured or glued to thesecond connector 210, which is not described in detail herein.

Illustratively, the first joint 110 may have an optical coupling portion disposed therein, the second joint 210 may have an optical coupling portion disposed therein, and both the first joint 110 and the second joint 210 may have an optical coupling portion disposed therein. The optical coupling portion may be optically coupled between the proximal end face of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 and the distal end face of the secondoptical fiber segment 200. Further, the light coupling part may include one or more of a light guide rod, an optical fiber rod, and a lens group. Thefirst connector 110 and thesecond connector 210 may be connected by an optical coupling portion, and the optical coupling portion may be configured to enhance an optical coupling effect between the proximal end surface of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 and the distal end surface of the secondoptical fiber segment 200.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 8 and 9A-9B, thefirst connector 110 may include afirst connector tube 111, and the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be inserted into and connected to thefirst connector tube 111. The firstjoint pipe 111 may be a metal cylindrical structure. The proximal end of the firstfiber optic segment 100 may be inserted into afirst connector tube 111. The proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 can be attached to thefirst connector tube 111 by any suitable means, such as adhesive attachment or thermal fusion curing. Thefirst connector tube 111 may protect the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100, and during disassembly, thefirst connector tube 111 is held by hand, thus not easily affecting the proximal end of the firstoptical fiber segment 100. Illustratively, thesecond connector 210 may include asecond connector tube 211, and the distal end of the secondoptical fiber segment 200 may be inserted into and connected to thesecond connector tube 211. The secondjoint pipe 211 may be a metal cylindrical structure. The distal end of thesecond fiber segment 200 may be inserted into asecond connector tube 211. The distal end of thesecond fiber segment 200 may be attached to thesecond connector tube 211 by an adhesive connection, or by thermal fusion curing, or any other suitable means. The firstjoint pipe 111 and the secondjoint pipe 211 may be detachably connected. The connection between the firstjoint pipe 111 and the secondjoint pipe 211 may be a detachable connection of various forms such as a screw connection or a snap connection. Thesecond connector tube 211 may protect the distal end of the secondoptical fiber span 200, and during disassembly, thesecond connector tube 211 is held by hand, thus not easily affecting the distal end of the secondoptical fiber span 200.

For example, as shown in fig. 8, the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be sleeved with a firstprotective cover 130, where the firstprotective cover 130 may be made of plastic material, and the firstprotective cover 130 may protect the firstoptical fiber segment 100 and may reduce external interference suffered by the firstoptical fiber segment 100. The distal end of thefirst connector tube 111 may be coaxially provided with a firstinner sleeve 140. As described above, the firstjoint pipe 111 may be a metal cylindrical structure, and the firstinner sleeve 140 may be a cylindrical metal structure coaxial with the firstjoint pipe 111. The firstinner sleeve 140 and the firstjoint pipe 111 may be manufactured by an integral molding process, or may be manufactured separately and then connected together. The outer diameter of the firstinner sleeve 140 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the firstjoint pipe 111. The firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be disposed through the firstinner sleeve 140, and the proximal end of the firstprotective sheath 130 may be disposed over the firstinner sleeve 140. Thefirst guard 130 may be fixedly attached to the firstinner sleeve 140 by an interference fit or the like. The firstprotective sheath 130 may encapsulate the distal end of the firstinner cannula 140, such that the firstprotective sheath 130 provides more complete protection to the firstoptical fiber segment 100 and greater overall device stability.

As an example, as shown in fig. 8, a firstannular groove 141 may be provided on an outer sidewall of the firstinner sleeve 140, and thefirst protection skin 130 may be fixed to the firstinner sleeve 140 by a fixing wire wound at the firstannular groove 141. Tightening the fixing wire can make thefirst protection skin 130 fixedly connected to the firstinner sleeve 140 more stable, and enhance the stability of the fixed connection between thefirst protection skin 130 and the firstinner sleeve 140.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 8, the secondoptical fiber section 200 may be sleeved with a second protecting cover 220, where the second protecting cover 220 may be made of plastic material, and the second protecting cover 220 may protect the secondoptical fiber section 200 and may reduce external interference suffered by the secondoptical fiber section 200. The proximal end of the secondjoint tube 211 may be coaxially provided with a secondinner sleeve 230. As described above, the secondjoint pipe 211 may be a metal cylindrical structure, and the secondinner sleeve 230 may be a cylindrical metal structure coaxial with the secondjoint pipe 211. The secondinner sleeve 230 and the secondjoint pipe 211 may be manufactured by an integral molding process, or may be connected together after being manufactured separately. The outer diameter of the secondinner sleeve 230 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the secondjoint pipe 211. The secondoptical fiber segment 200 may be disposed through the secondinner cannula 230, and the distal end of the second protective sheath 220 may be disposed over the secondinner cannula 230. The second protective sheath 220 may be fixedly attached to the secondinner sleeve 230 by an interference fit or the like. The second protective sheath 220 may encase the distal end of the secondinner cannula 230 such that the second protective sheath 220 provides more complete protection to the secondoptical fiber span 200 and greater overall device stability.

Illustratively, as shown in fig. 9, a second annular groove may be provided on the outer sidewall of the secondinner sleeve 230, and the second protective skin 220 may be fixed to the secondinner sleeve 230 by a fixing wire wound around the second annular groove. Tightening the fixation wire may make the second protective sheath 220 fixedly connected to the secondinner sleeve 230 more stable, enhancing the stability of the fixed connection between the second protective sheath 220 and the secondinner sleeve 230.

For example, one of the firstjoint pipe 111 and the secondjoint pipe 211 may be provided with an internal thread, and the other of the firstjoint pipe 111 and the secondjoint pipe 211 may be provided with an external thread, and the internal thread may be connected to the external thread. The firstjoint pipe 111 and the secondjoint pipe 211 can be connected through threads, so that the connection is more stable, the disassembly is convenient, and the whole device is simple in structure and easy to realize.

For example, as shown in fig. 8 and 9A-9B, the secondjoint pipe 211 may be provided with external threads, and the firstjoint pipe 111 may be provided with internal threads. The proximal end of the secondjoint tube 211 may also be provided with a secondtool connection slot 212, and the secondtool connection slot 212 may be provided to facilitate installation and removal using tools. The proximal nozzle of the secondjoint tube 211 may also expose the secondtool connection slot 212, and the secondtool connection slot 212 may be exposed to the outside, so that the secondtool connection slot 212 may be conveniently operated using a tool.

In an embodiment not shown, the firstjoint pipe 111 may be provided with external threads and the secondjoint pipe 211 may be provided with internal threads, and the outer diameter of the firstjoint pipe 111 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the secondjoint pipe 211. The distal end of the firstjoint tube 111 may be provided with a first tool connection slot, which may be provided for easy installation and removal using tools. The distal end nozzle of the firstjoint tube 111 may expose the first tool connection slot, which is exposed to the outside, and may be conveniently operated using tools.

Illustratively, the numerical aperture of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the secondoptical fiber segment 200. The larger the numerical aperture of the fiber, the more light receiving capacity. The numerical aperture of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 is greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the secondoptical fiber segment 200, so that it is ensured that various light such as illumination light or photoacoustic excitation light transmitted through the secondoptical fiber segment 200 can be received by the firstoptical fiber segment 100, and further various light such as illumination light or photoacoustic excitation light can be continuously transmitted toward the distal end of thehead end 13 through the firstoptical fiber segment 100.

Illustratively, the cross-section of the firstoptical fiber segment 100 may be greater than or equal to the cross-section of the secondoptical fiber segment 200. This arrangement is also provided to ensure that various light such as illumination light or photoacoustic excitation light transmitted through the secondoptical fiber section 200 can be received by the firstoptical fiber section 100, and further that various light such as illumination light or photoacoustic excitation light can continue to be transmitted to the distal end of thehead end 13 through the firstoptical fiber section 100.

In the description of the present utility model, it should be understood that the azimuth or positional relationships indicated by the azimuth terms such as "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "transverse", "vertical", "horizontal", and "top", "bottom", etc., are generally based on the azimuth or positional relationships shown in the drawings, merely for convenience of describing the present utility model and simplifying the description, and these azimuth terms do not indicate and imply that the apparatus or elements referred to must have a specific azimuth or be constructed and operated in a specific azimuth, without limiting the scope of protection of the present utility model; the orientation terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer relative to the outline of the components themselves.

For ease of description, regional relative terms, such as "above … …," "above … …," "upper surface at … …," "above," and the like, may be used herein to describe regional positional relationships of one or more components or features to other components or features illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the relative terms of regions include not only the orientation of the components illustrated in the figures, but also different orientations in use or operation. For example, if the element in the figures is turned over entirely, elements "over" or "on" other elements or features would then be included in cases where the element is "under" or "beneath" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above … …" may include both orientations of "above … …" and "below … …". Moreover, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and all such cases are intended to be encompassed herein.

It is noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments in accordance with the present application. As used herein, the singular is also intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, and furthermore, it is to be understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising" when used in this specification are taken to specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, components, assemblies, and/or combinations thereof.

It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," and the like in the description and claims of the present application and the above figures are used for distinguishing between similar objects and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the data so used may be interchanged where appropriate such that embodiments of the present application described herein may be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

The present utility model has been illustrated by the above-described embodiments, but it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are for purposes of illustration and description only and are not intended to limit the utility model to the embodiments described. In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present utility model is not limited to the embodiments described above, and that many variations and modifications are possible in light of the teachings of the utility model, which variations and modifications are within the scope of the utility model as claimed. The scope of the utility model is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims (20)

1. A photoacoustic endoscope including an insertion part, a distal end of which is provided with a head end portion from which photoacoustic excitation light exits, characterized in that the head end portion includes a head end seat,

the optical fiber for transmitting the photoacoustic excitation light comprises a first optical fiber section and a second optical fiber section, wherein the distal end of the first optical fiber section is connected to the distal end of the head end portion, the proximal end of the first optical fiber section is connected with a first connector, the second optical fiber section extends from the proximal end of the insertion portion to the head end seat, the distal end of the second optical fiber section is connected with a second connector, the first connector is detachably connected to the second connector, and the proximal end face of the first optical fiber section and the distal end face of the second optical fiber section are connected to the second connector through the first connector to achieve optical coupling.

2. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1 wherein the head end seat is provided with a cavity, the opening of the cavity being provided with a removable cap, the first connector and the second connector being disposed within the cavity.

3. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 2 wherein the first optical fiber section comprises a curved sub-section within the cavity, the curved sub-section having a length such that the first connector can be pulled out of the cavity.

4. A photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 3, wherein a wire harness portion is provided within the cavity, the bending sub-section being limited by the wire harness portion.

5. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 4 wherein the wire harness portion comprises a post around which the curved subsections are wrapped.

6. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein,

a proximal end of the first optical fiber segment is hot melt cured or glued to the first joint; and/or

The distal end of the second optical fiber segment is heat-cured or glued to the second joint.

7. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein an optical coupling portion is disposed within the first joint and/or the second joint, the optical coupling portion being optically coupled between a proximal end face of the first optical fiber section and a distal end face of the second optical fiber section.

8. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 7, wherein the optical coupling portion comprises one or more of a light guide rod, a fiber optic rod, and a lens group.

9. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1 wherein the first connector comprises a first connector tube into which the proximal end of the first optical fiber section is inserted and connected and the second connector comprises a second connector tube into which the distal end of the second optical fiber section is inserted and connected, the first connector tube and the second connector tube being detachably connected.

10. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 9 wherein the first optical fiber section is sleeved with a first protective sheath, the distal end of the first connector tube is coaxially provided with a first inner sleeve, the outer diameter of the first inner sleeve is smaller than the outer diameter of the first connector tube, the first optical fiber section is arranged in the first inner sleeve in a penetrating manner, and the proximal end of the first protective sheath is arranged on the first inner sleeve in a sleeved manner.

11. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 10 wherein the first inner sleeve is provided with a first annular groove on an outer sidewall thereof and the first protective sheath is secured to the first inner sleeve by a securing wire wound at the first annular groove.

12. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 9 wherein the second optical fiber section is sleeved with a second protective sheath, the proximal end of the second connector tube is coaxially provided with a second inner sleeve, the outer diameter of the second inner sleeve is smaller than the outer diameter of the second connector tube, the second optical fiber section is arranged in the second inner sleeve in a penetrating manner, and the distal end of the second protective sheath is arranged on the second inner sleeve in a sleeved manner.

13. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 12 wherein the outer side wall of the second inner sleeve is provided with a second annular groove and the second protective sheath is secured to the second inner sleeve by a securing wire wound at the second annular groove.

14. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 9, wherein one of the first joint tube and the second joint tube is provided with internal threads and the other of the first joint tube and the second joint tube is provided with external threads, the internal threads being connected to the external threads.

15. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 14, wherein,

the first joint pipe is provided with external threads, the far end of the first joint pipe is provided with a first tool connecting slot, and the far end pipe orifice of the first joint pipe exposes the first tool connecting slot; or alternatively

The second joint pipe is provided with external threads, the proximal end of the second joint pipe is provided with a second tool connecting slot, and the pipe orifice of the proximal end of the second joint pipe exposes the second tool connecting slot.

16. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein,

the numerical aperture of the first optical fiber segment is greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the second optical fiber segment; and/or

The cross section of the first optical fiber section is greater than or equal to the cross section of the second optical fiber section.

17. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein an ultrasonic probe is disposed on the head end mount, and a joint assembly comprising the first joint and the second joint is closer to the proximal end of the insertion portion than the ultrasonic probe.

18. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 17 further comprising a clip lifter on the head end, the joint assembly being disposed side-by-side with the clip lifter along a first lateral direction perpendicular to the axis of the insertion portion.

19. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 18 further comprising an optical imaging assembly on the head end, the forceps holder and the joint assembly being on one side and the optical imaging assembly being on the other side along a second lateral direction perpendicular to the first lateral direction and the axis.

20. An endoscope system comprising the photoacoustic endoscope of any one of claims 1-19.

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