Title:

ULTRASONIC ENDOSCOPE, THERAPEUTIC SYSTEM, TREATMENT METHOD USING THERAPEUTIC SYSTEM, ENDOSCOPIC SYSTEM, TREATMENT METHOD USING ULTRASONIC ENDOSCOPE, T-BAR, AND T-BAR SUTURING DEVICE

Document Type and Number:

United States Patent Application 20080051655

Kind Code:

Abstract:

An ultrasonic endoscope includes an insertion section, an operation section, an optical observation system, and an ultrasonic observation system. The optical observation system is disposed in the insertable section, and has an objective lens located on a face of a distal end of the insertion section. The ultrasonic observing system is disposed in the insertion section, and has an ultrasonic transducer disposed on the face of the distal end of the insertion section or further forward than the distal end.

Inventors:

Sato, Masatoshi (Yokohama-shi, JP)
Kaji, Kunihide (Hachioji-shi, JP)
Suzuki, Takayuki (Yokohama-shi, JP)
Shiono, Junji (Yokohama-shi, JP)
Mikkaichi, Takayasu (Fuchu-shi, JP)
Tsutaki, Shinichi (Hachioji-shi, JP)
Shizuka, Toshihiro (Hino-shi, JP)
Nakazato, Takeharu (Tama-shi, JP)
Sato, Sunao (Yamato-shi, JP)
Mizunuma, Akiko (Hachioji-shi, JP)

Plaque It!

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an ultrasonic endoscope, an endoscopic system, a treatment method using the ultrasonic endoscope, a T-bar, a T-bar suturing device, a sheath in combination with the ultrasonic endoscope with a forceps channel, and a balloon disposed at the tip of the sheath.

2. Description of the Related Art

Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2001-292997 discloses an ultrasonic endoscope. This ultrasonic endoscope includes an insertion section and an operation section disposed at the proximal end of the insertion section. An objective lens for optical observation is fixed to the distal end of the insertion section. An ultrasonic transducer is capable of projecting from the distal end of the insertion section. This allows ultrasonic observation, even with the ultrasonic transducer projecting from the distal end of the insertion section.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ultrasonic endoscope including:

an insertion section having a distal end and a proximal end;

an operation section disposed on the proximal end of the insertion section;

an optical observation system disposed in the insertion section, the optical observation system having an objective lens on a distal end surface of the insertion section; and

an ultrasonic observation system disposed in the insertion section, the ultrasonic observation system having an ultrasonic transducer on the distal end surface of the insertion section or further forward than the distal end thereof.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ultrasonic endoscope including:

an insertion section having a distal end and a proximal end;

an operation section disposed on the proximal end of the insertion section;

at least one pair of suction channels inserted in the insertion section and having openings in the distal end of the insertion section; and

an ultrasonic transducer disposed between the openings of the suction channels.

Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and together with the general description given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view showing the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a schematic view of the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment, in which the central axis (scanning surface) of an ultrasonic transducer (an ultrasonic oscillator) incorporated in an ultrasonic probe is on the central axis of a first forceps channel;

FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment, in which the central axis of the ultrasonic transducer incorporated in the ultrasonic probe is on the central axis of a second forceps channel;

FIG. 4A is a schematic view showing the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment and illustrating the operating state of the ultrasonic probe inserted in an operation section;

FIG. 4B is a schematic view showing the operation section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment and illustrating the state in which an ultrasonic transducer cable is pushed out toward the distal end of the insertion section by moving a slider away from a pivotal support part of a movable lever;

FIG. 4C is a schematic view showing the operation section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment and illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer cable is pulled toward the proximal end of the insertion section by moving the slider closer to the pivotal support part of the movable lever;

FIG. 5A is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line 5 A- 5 A of FIG. 5B, showing the vicinity of a rotation knob in FIG. 4A disposed in the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line 5 B- 5 B of FIG. 5A, showing the vicinity of the rotation knob disposed in the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 5C is a schematic transverse sectional view taken along the line 5 C- 5 C of FIG. 5A, showing the rotation knob disposed in the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an endoscopic system according to the first embodiment, which incorporates an ultrasonic endoscope, video processor, and ultrasonic observation device;

FIG. 7A is a schematic view showing an optical observation monitor coupled to the video processor of the endoscopic system according to the first embodiment, and illustrating the state in which an optically observed image is shown on a display screen of the monitor and a grid is superimposed on the optically observed image;

FIG. 7B is a schematic view showing the optical observation monitor coupled to the video processor of the endoscopic system according to the first embodiment, and illustrating the state in which an optically observed image is shown on the display screen of the monitor and a scale is superimposed on the optically observed image;

FIG. 8A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer of the ultrasonic probe and a holding portion for the ultrasonic transducer project from the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment, and the scanning surface of the ultrasonic transducer is disposed on the central axis of the second forceps channel;

FIG. 8B is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer, holding portion, and semispherical part of the ultrasonic probe project from the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment, and the holding portion is rotated so that the scanning surface of the ultrasonic transducer is disposed on the central axis of the first forceps channel;

FIG. 8C is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer, holding portion, and semispherical part of the ultrasonic probe projecting from the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the first embodiment are pulled to decrease the degree of projection, and the scanning surface of the ultrasonic transducer is disposed on the central axis of the first forceps channel;

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram showing a modified example of the endoscopic system according to the first embodiment, which incorporates the ultrasonic endoscope, video processor, and ultrasonic observation device;

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing another modified example of the endoscopic system according to the first embodiment, which incorporates the ultrasonic endoscope, video processor, and ultrasonic observation device;

FIG. 11A is a schematic view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 11B is a schematic view of the distal end of an ultrasonic probe of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 12A is a schematic perspective view showing the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a third embodiment and illustrating the state in which an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic probe projects from the face of the distal end of the insertion section;

FIG. 12B is a schematic vertical sectional view showing the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the third embodiment and illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer of the ultrasonic probe projects from the face of the distal end of the insertion section;

FIG. 12C is a schematic perspective view showing the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the third embodiment and illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer of the ultrasonic probe is disposed in substantially the same plane as the face of the distal end of the insertion section;

FIG. 12D is a schematic vertical sectional view showing the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the third embodiment and illustrating the state in which the ultrasonic transducer of the ultrasonic probe is disposed in substantially the same plane as the face of the distal end of the insertion section;

FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view showing the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a fourth embodiment and illustrating the state in which an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic probe projects from the face of the distal end of the insertion section;

FIG. 14A is a schematic view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 14B is a schematic vertical sectional view taken along the line 14 B- 14 B of FIG. 14A, showing the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 14C is a schematic vertical sectional view showing the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fifth embodiment and illustrating the state in which a surgical instrument is inserted in a forceps channel shown in FIG. 14B;

FIG. 15A is a schematic view illustrating the state in which the surgical instrument passed through the forceps channel intersects the ultrasonic oscillating surface of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 15B is a schematic view illustrating the state in which the surgical instrument passed though the forceps channel is parallel to the ultrasonic oscillating surface of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 16A is a schematic front view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a sixth embodiment;

FIG. 16B is a schematic vertical sectional view of the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the sixth embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a seventh embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to an eighth embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a schematic view illustrating the state in which one of two ultrasonic endoscopes according to a ninth embodiment is introduced in a stomach through the mouth and the other is introduced to a site outside the stomach through the skin;

FIG. 20 is a schematic view illustrating the state in which an ultrasonic wave is transmitted and received between the distal ends of the insertion sections of the two ultrasonic endoscopes according to the ninth embodiment in order to search for the opposite positions of the distal ends;

FIG. 21A is a schematic view illustrating the state in which one of the two ultrasonic endoscopes according to the ninth embodiment is placed in an intestine through the mouth or anus;

FIG. 21B is a schematic view illustrating the state in which one of the two ultrasonic endoscopes according to the ninth embodiment is placed in an intestine through the mouth or anus, and the other is introduced by way of the skin in order to push away an adjacent organ such that an ultrasonic wave is transmitted to or received from the distal end of the insertion section of the one ultrasonic endoscope to search for the opposite positions;

FIG. 21C is a schematic view illustrating the state in which the curvbable part of the other one of the two ultrasonic endoscopes according to the ninth embodiment is operated, thereby defining a space between the intestinal wall and the organ while holding the opposite positions of the distal ends of the insertion sections of the two ultrasonic endoscopes;

FIG. 21D is a schematic view illustrating the state in which a needle from one of the two ultrasonic endoscopes according to the ninth embodiment pierces through the intestinal wall that includes an area of interest, and the distal end of the insertion section of the other ultrasonic endoscope is disposed beyond the needle point;

FIG. 22A is a schematic perspective view of an endoscopic system according to a tenth embodiment;

FIG. 22B is a schematic view showing an optical observation endoscope, an ultrasonic observation endoscope, and an ultrasonic probe, all of which project from the distal end of the sheath of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment;

FIG. 22C is a schematic view of the distal end of the part (represented by reference number 22 C in FIG. 22B) of the insertion section of the optical observation endoscope of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment;

FIG. 22D is a schematic view of the distal end of the part (represented by reference number 22 D in FIG. 22B) of the insertion section of the ultrasonic observation endoscope of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment;

FIG. 22E is a schematic view of the distal end of the part (represented by reference number 22 E in FIG. 22B) of the insertion section of the ultrasonic probe of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a schematic view for explaining that the optical observation endoscope can be disposed in a slot of the main body case of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a schematic view of the back of the main body case of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment;

FIG. 25A is a schematic view illustrating the state in which while a body wall is observed using the optical observation endoscope of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment, a needle is projected from a channel and pierced through a site away from an area of interest, and the area of interest is ultrasonically observed using the ultrasonic observation endoscope;

FIG. 25B is a schematic view illustrating the state in which while a body wall and an area of interest are observed using the optical observation endoscope and the ultrasonic observation endoscope, respectively, of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment, the ultrasonic probe is introduced from the site pierced with the needle, and the ultrasonic transducer at the distal end of the ultrasonic probe is disposed behind the area of interest;

FIG. 25C is a schematic view illustrating the state in which while a body wall and an area of interest are observed using the optical observation endoscope and the ultrasonic observation endoscope, respectively, of the endoscopic system according to the tenth embodiment, an organ is pushed away from the body wall using the distal end of the ultrasonic probe, thereby defining a space;

FIG. 26 is the schematic front view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to an eleventh embodiment;

FIG. 27A is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which the distal end of a cap attached to the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the eleventh embodiment is in contact with a body wall;

FIG. 27B is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which under ultrasonic observation, the living tissue is suctioned into the cap attached to the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the eleventh embodiment;

FIG. 27C is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which under ultrasonic observation, the living tissue is suctioned into the cap attached to the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the eleventh embodiment, and a needle is pierced through a body wall via a suction passage (a suction channel);

FIG. 27D is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which under ultrasonic observation, the living tissue is suctioned into the cap attached to the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the eleventh embodiment, a needle having a T-bar is pierced through the body wall via the suction passage, and the T-bar is placed on the body wall;

FIG. 28A is the schematic front view of the distal end of the insertion section of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a twelfth embodiment;

FIG. 28B is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which the distal end face of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the twelfth embodiment is brought into contact with a body wall;

FIG. 28C is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which a needle is pierced through a body wall while the face of the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the twelfth embodiment is in contact with the body wall;

FIG. 29 is a schematic view of a T-bar suturing device according to a thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 30A is a schematic perspective view of a T-bar placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 30B is a schematic vertical sectional view of the T-bar placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 31A is a schematic perspective view of an example of the shape of the T-bar placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 31B is a schematic perspective view of another example of the shape of the T-bar placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 31C is a schematic perspective view of another example of the shape of the T-bar placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 32 is a schematic view of a needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment and a bar of the T-bar;

FIG. 33 is a schematic perspective view of the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 34A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the bar of the T-bar is about to be loaded into the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 34B is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the bar of the T-bar is loaded in the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 34C is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the bar of the T-bar loaded in the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment is covered with a sheath;

FIG. 35 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the sheath covering the bar of the T-bar loaded in the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment is moved away toward the proximal end side;

FIG. 36A is a schematic view illustrating the state in which a body wall is pierced with the distal end of the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 36B is a schematic view illustrating the state in which the body wall is pierced with the distal end of the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment, and the bar of the T-bar is caused to fall with a pusher while the distal end of the needle tube is observed using an ultrasonic endoscope;

FIG. 36C is a schematic view illustrating the state in which the bar of the T-bar is caused to fall from the distal end of the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment, and then the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device is pulled off the body wall;

FIG. 36D is a schematic view illustrating the state in which after the T-bar is placed on a body wall using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment, a thread member or spherical member of the T-bar is grasped using another grasping forceps;

FIG. 36E is a schematic view illustrating the state in which after the T-bar is placed on the body wall using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment and the thread member or spherical member of the T-bar is grasped using the another grasping forceps, a stopper is moved closer to the bar along the thread member using the distal end of the sheath covering the periphery of the grasping forceps;

FIG. 37 is a schematic perspective view of a T-bar having a double bar, which is placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 38 is a schematic perspective view of another T-bar having a double bar, which is placed using the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 39 is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which a T-bar having a double bar is disposed in the needle tube of the T-bar suturing device according to the thirteenth embodiment;

FIG. 40 is a schematic view of a sheath inserted in the forceps channel of an ultrasonic endoscope according to a fourteenth embodiment;

FIG. 41A is a schematic vertical sectional view of a tip (a distal end) of the sheath inserted in the forceps channel of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fourteenth embodiment;

FIG. 41B is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating the state in which a balloon at the tip of the sheath inserted in the forceps channel of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fourteenth embodiment is inflated;

FIG. 42 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the proximal end of the sheath inserted in the forceps channel of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fourteenth embodiment;

FIG. 43 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the balloon disposed at the tip of the sheath inserted in the forceps channel of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fourteenth embodiment;

FIG. 44A is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating ultrasonic observation with no sheath inserted in the forceps channel of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fourteenth embodiment; and

FIG. 44B is a schematic vertical sectional view illustrating ultrasonic observation with the balloon inflated from the sheath inserted in the forceps channel of the ultrasonic endoscope according to the fourteenth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the accompanying drawings, there will be described presently preferred embodiments of the invention.

A description of a first embodiment will be given with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10.

An ultrasonic endoscope 10 shown in FIG. 1 has an ultrasonic observation function for ultrasonically observing a subject using an ultrasonic wave, and an optical observation function for optically observing the subject. The ultrasonic endoscope 10 includes a long, thin insertion section 12 , an operation section 14 attached to the proximal end of the insertion section 12 , and a universal cord 16 extending from the operation section 14 . Mounted on the universal cord 16 are a light source (not shown), an ultrasonic observation device 84 shown in FIG. 6, and a connector 18 to which a video processor 82 is connected.

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 3B, inserted in a part extending from the insertion section 12 to the operation section 14 are a first forceps channel (surgical instrument insertion channel) 22 , a second forceps channel (surgical instrument insertion channel) 24 , and an ultrasonic probe channel 26 , all of which are parallel to one another.

As shown in FIG. 1, the insertion section 12 has a distal end rigid portion 32 , a bending portion 34 , and a flexible tube 36 . The flexible tube 36 is flexible according to a reaction force exerted from the wall of a body cavity inside a body cavity when the insertion section 12 is inserted into such a passage. The bending portion 34 can be curved in a desired direction by rotating a bending-operation knob 14 a of the operation section 14 . As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the distal end rigid portion 32 includes an optical observation objective lens (an optical observation system) 38 , forceps channel openings 22 a and 24 a for the forceps channels 22 and 24 , and a probe channel opening 26 a for the ultrasonic probe channel 26 . The distal end rigid portion 32 has an illuminating lens (not shown), which emits an illumination light to illuminate a subject being optically observed.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the probe channel opening 26 a of the probe channel 26 has an approximately regular hexagonal shape. In the probe channel opening 26 a, part of periphery is removed in order to narrow the outer diameter of the distal end rigid portion 32 . While the distal end surface of the distal end rigid portion 32 of the probe channel opening 26 a is an approximately regular hexagon, the proximal end portion of the insertion section 12 has an approximately semicircular projecting edge 26 b. Extending from the proximal end of the semicircular edge 26 b is a flexible tube 26 c the inside diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the channel opening 26 a with which the tube 26 c is in contact. Thus, the channel opening 26 a of the distal end rigid portion 32 , the semicircular edge 26 b and the flexible tube 26 c form the ultrasonic probe channel 26 .

The first channel opening 22 a defined in the distal end face of the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 is disposed such that out of the four edges 28 a, 28 b, 28 c, and 28 d of the regular hexagonal shape of the probe channel 26 in which an ultrasonic probe 50 (described below) is disposed, the first channel opening 22 a is perpendicular to the second edge 28 b and passes through the center of the regular hexagon. The second channel opening 24 a is perpendicular to the third edge 28 c and also passes through the center of the regular hexagon. Additionally, the objective lens 38 is disposed in such a position that a surgical instrument or the like (not shown) can be viewed from the forceps channel openings 22 a and 24 a of the first channel 22 and second channel 24 , respectively. It is preferable that the distance from the objective lens 38 to the center C ₁of the forceps channel opening 22 a of the first channel 22 and the distance from the objective lens 38 to the center C ₂of the forceps channel opening 24 a of the second channel 24 be equal. That is, an equilateral triangle or isosceles triangle is formed having, as its vertices, the center O of the objective lens 38 , the center C ₁of the first forceps channel opening 22 a, and the center C ₂of the second forceps channel opening 24 a.

The proximal ends of the first and second forceps channels 22 and 24 are attached to the operation section 14 . Adjacent to the forceps openings of the proximal end sides of the forceps channels 22 and 24 , for example, are forceps valves 22 b and 24 b.

Referring to FIG. 4A, there is shown the ultrasonic probe channel 26 in which a long thin ultrasonic probe (ultrasonic observation system) 50 is disposed. As shown in FIG. 2, the ultrasonic probe 50 includes: an electronic convex type ultrasonic transducer 52 for ultrasonic observation; a holding portion 54 of approximately regular hexagonal shape, which holds the ultrasonic transducer 52 at its distal end; a semispherical part 56 disposed at the proximal end of the holding portion 54 ; and a flexible transducer cable 58 disposed at the proximal end of the semispherical part 56 . The transducer cable 58 , semispherical part 56 , holding portion 54 , and ultrasonic transducer 52 are disposed on the same axis. The descriptions given below exemplify the case where the holding portion 54 has the shape of an approximately regular hexagonal prism. However, any other regular polygonal prism, such as a regular pentagonal prism, is also suitable. According to the shape of the holding portion 54 , the shape of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 also changes. Further, it is also preferable that the holding portion 54 have the shape of an approximately regular polygonal pyramid, such as an approximately regular hexagonal pyramid. According to the shape of the holding portion 54 , the shape of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 also changes. In this case, the large cross-sectional area side of the holding portion 54 sticks out beyond the distal end face of the insertion section 12 whereas the small cross-sectional area side of the holding portion 54 is located on the proximal end side of the insertion section 12 rather than on the distal end face side thereof.

The transducer cable 58 is inserted in the ultrasonic probe channel 26 . The semispherical part 56 is fitted in the approximately semispherical portion of the proximal end of the probe channel opening 26 a. The holding portion 54 is formed in such a size as to fit in the probe channel opening 26 a of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 . The ultrasonic transducer 52 is disposed on the central axis of the approximately regular hexagonal holding portion 54 . Accordingly, the holding portion 54 of the distal end of the ultrasonic probe 50 , when normally used, is prevented from rotating relative to the probe channel opening 26 a of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 . As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a scanning surface (oscillation surface) S of the oscillator 52 is selectively directed toward the first forceps channel 22 or second forceps channel 24 .

As shown in FIG. 2, the axial distance from the distal end of the holding portion 54 to the semispherical part 56 is greater than the distance from the probe channel opening 26 a of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 to the semispherical edge 26 b. Accordingly, the holding portion 54 sticks out beyond the probe channel opening 26 a. To be more specific, the ultrasonic transducer 52 projects from the distal end face of the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 .

The periphery of the transducer cable 58 has a recess 58 a in which a drive pin 74 (described below) is disposed.

Referring to FIGS. 4B and 4C, there is shown the operation section 14 , on which an axially movable lever 62 is pivotally supported by a pivotal support part 62 a in order to move the ultrasonic probe 50 in the axial direction of the insertion section 12 . The movable lever 62 is connected to the proximal end of the transducer cable 58 of the ultrasonic probe 50 via a link 64 and a slider 66 .

By operating the movable lever 62 of the operation section 14 , the slider 66 moves in the axial direction of the insertion section 12 (i.e., the axial direction of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 ) via the link 64 . Consequently, the transducer cable 58 , the proximal end of which is connected to the slider 66 , moves in the axial direction of the insertion section 12 . As a result, the semispherical part 56 and holding portion 54 disposed at the distal end of the transducer cable 58 move in the axial direction of the insertion section 12 .

The link 64 includes a first link member 64 a, a second link member 64 b, a first pivotal support part 64 c, and a second pivotal support part 64 d. One end of the first link member 64 a is pivotally supported by the pivotal support part 62 a of the movable lever 62 . The other end of the first link member 64 a is connected to one end of the second link member 64 b via the first pivotal support part 64 c. The other end of the second link member 64 b is connected to the slider 66 via the second pivotal support part 64 d.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 5A to 5 C, at the proximal end of the insertion section 12 is a rotation knob 72 disposed via a plurality of O-rings such that at least part of the rotational knob 72 is exposed from the periphery of the insertion section 12 and the rotation knob 72 is rotatable around the axis of the probe channel 26 . The drive pin 74 is fixed to the rotation knob 72 by a lock pin 74 a from outside the knob 72 . The distal end of the drive pin 74 extends, through the periphery of the probe channel 26 , into the recess 58 a formed in part of the transducer cable 58 . Accordingly, by rotating the rotation knob 72 around the axis of the insertion section 12 , the force is transmitted to the transducer cable 58 via the drive pin 74 . Consequently, the transducer cable 58 rotates around the axis of the probe channel 26 . As a result, the holding portion 54 disposed at the distal end of the transducer cable 58 also rotates around the axis of the probe channel 26 .

As shown in FIG. 2, in the state where the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is fixed to the channel opening 26 a of the probe channel 26 , a focal length FL of the objective lens 38 of the observing optical system is approximately equal to the distance from the distal end face of the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 to the ultrasonic transducer 52 of the ultrasonic probe 50 . This makes it possible to observe substantially the same living tissue in a living body both optically and ultrasonically.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the recess 58 a is formed in the transducer cable 58 and the drive pin 74 is disposed in the recess 58 a. However, the invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, it may be preferable that a projection be formed on the periphery of the transducer cable 58 and gripped by a gripper disposed on the rotation knob 72 . The rotation of the rotation knob 72 in such a configuration is transmitted to the projection of the transducer cable 58 gripped by the gripper and consequently the transducer cable 58 rotates. In this case, eliminating the need to form the recess 58 a in the transducer cable 58 prevents the internal configuration of the transducer cable 58 from being affected. In addition, since the rotation knob 72 is disposed at the proximal end of the insertion section 12 , this does not affect the diameter of the insertion section 12 , which is inserted in a passage in a body cavity.

As shown in FIG. 6, the endoscopic system 1 includes an optical observation monitor 86 and an ultrasonic observation monitor 88 in addition to the ultrasonic endoscope 10 , the video processor 82 , and the ultrasonic observation device 84 . The ultrasonic endoscope 10 is electrically coupled to the video processor 82 and ultrasonic observation device 84 . The video processor 82 is electrically coupled to the optical observation monitor 86 , and the ultrasonic observation device 84 is electrically coupled to the ultrasonic observation monitor 88 .

As shown in FIG. 7, the optical observation monitor 86 includes a display screen 86 a. On the display screen 86 a, a dimension indicator 90 for an image optically observed by the endoscope 10 can be displayed. The dimension indicator 90 and an image picked up by a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) 102 (described below) can be displayed one superimposed upon the other. An example of the dimension indicator 90 includes a grid 90 a as shown in FIG. 7A or a scale 90 b as shown in FIG. 7B, which can be selectively or simultaneously displayed on the display screen 86 a.

Referring back to FIG. 6, the ultrasonic endoscope 10 includes the ultrasonic transducer 52 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) for ultrasonic observation, and the CCD 102 for optical observation. The video processor 82 includes a CPU 104 , a CCD drive signal control circuit 106 , a CCD drive signal generating circuit 108 , a video processing circuit 110 , and a graphics memory 112 . Coupled to the CPU 104 are the CCD drive signal control circuit 106 and the graphics memory 112 . The graphics memory 112 stores the images (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) of the dimension indicator 90 to be displayed on the optical observation monitor 86 . Coupled to the CCD drive signal control circuit 106 is the CCD drive signal generating circuit 108 coupled to the CCD 102 . Coupled to the CCD drive signal generating circuit 108 is the video processing circuit 110 . Coupled to the graphics memory 112 and video processing circuit 110 is the optical observation monitor 86 .

The ultrasonic observation device 84 includes: a transmission/reception control circuit 114 electrically coupled to the CPU 104 of the video processor 82 ; a transmission/reception circuit 116 ; a detector circuit 118 ; an analog to digital (A/D) conversion circuit 120 ; and a digital scan converter (DSC) 122 . Coupled to the transmission/reception control circuit 114 is the transmission/reception circuit 116 coupled to the ultrasonic transducer 52 . Coupled to the transmission/reception circuit 116 is the detector circuit 118 . Coupled to the detector circuit 118 is the A/D conversion circuit 120 . Coupled to the A/D conversion circuit 120 is the DSC 122 . Coupled to the DSC 122 is the ultrasonic observation monitor 88 .

Next, a description will be given of the case where using the ultrasonic endoscope 10 having a configuration as described above, an optically observed image and an ultrasonically observed image are displayed on the optical observation monitor 86 and the ultrasonic observation monitor 88 , respectively.

Via the CCD drive signal control circuit 106 , the CPU 104 drives the CCD drive signal generating circuit 108 and controls the CCD 102 . The signal corresponding to an image picked up by the CCD 102 is input to the video processing circuit 110 via the CCD drive signal generating circuit 108 . The video processing circuit 110 outputs this input image signal to the optical observation monitor 86 .

In order to oscillate the ultrasonic transducer 52 , a signal is input to the CPU 104 by a switch (not shown). The CPU 104 oscillates the ultrasonic transducer 52 via the transmission/reception control circuit 114 and transmission/reception circuit 116 . On the other hand, a signal received by the ultrasonic transducer 52 is input to the transmission/reception control circuit 114 and detector circuit 118 via the transmission/reception circuit 116 . The signal input to the detector circuit 118 is digitized converted by the A/D conversion circuit 120 and the resultant signal is input to the DSC 122 . The DSC 122 outputs an ultrasonically observed image to the ultrasonic observation monitor 88 .

The signal input to the transmission/reception control circuit 114 via the transmission/reception circuit 116 of the ultrasonic observation device 84 is received by the CPU 104 . The CPU 104 causes the optical observation monitor 86 to display the dimension indicator 90 , which is the image stored in the graphics memory 112 . Specifically, as indicated by sign F, the dimension indicator 90 is displayed on the optical observation monitor 86 via the transmission/reception control circuit 114 , CPU 104 , and graphics memory 112 . In response to an ON-signal indicating the ultrasonic scanning, the dimension indicator 90 , which is the image stored in the graphics memory 112 , is displayed so as to be superimposed upon the image picked up by the CCD 102 . This makes it possible to estimate the size, etc., of a tissue based upon the dimension indicator 90 .

Subsequently, a signal directing the ultrasonic transducer 52 to cease oscillation is input to the CPU 104 by a switch (not shown). The CPU 104 stops the oscillation of the ultrasonic transducer 52 via the transmission/reception control circuit 114 and transmission/reception circuit 116 . Consequently, the signal from the transmission/reception control circuit 114 to the CPU 104 is intercepted. Since the CPU 104 does not transmit a signal to the graphics memory 112 , the image of the dimension indicator 90 in the graphics memory 112 disappears from the optical observation monitor 86 .

Next, the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 according to the first embodiment will now be explained.

The distal end of the insertion section 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 is inserted into a target body cavity, in such as an internal organ. While a body wall BW of the area of interest (not shown) in the body cavity is displayed and optically observed on the optical observation monitor 86 , the ultrasonic transducer 52 projecting from the distal end face of the distal end rigid portion 32 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is brought into contact with the body wall BW of the area of interest. At this time, since the ultrasonic transducer 52 projects from the distal end face of the insertion section 12 , as shown in FIG. 2, a suitable distance is maintained from the objective lens 38 to the body wall BW being in contact with the ultrasonic transducer 52 . Accordingly, the surface of the body wall BW that includes the area of interest can be optically observed while the ultrasonic transducer 52 is kept in contact with the body wall BW. In this condition, the ultrasonic transducer 52 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is caused to ultrasonically oscillate (i.e., ultrasonic scanning is started). At this time, the focal length FL for optically observing the body wall BW has been adjusted. This makes it possible to ultrasonically observe the inside of the body wall BW of the passage in the body cavity while optically observing the surface of the body wall BW.

It is assumed that the second forceps channel 24 is disposed in the same plane as that in which the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 is disposed, as shown in FIG. 3B. In this case, a surgical instrument projecting from the forceps channel opening 24 a of the second forceps channel 24 can be optically observed. For example, when a distal end of a surgical instrument such as a needle is inserted into the body wall BW, the position of the distal end of the surgical instrument may be ultrasonically observed. This makes it possible to ultrasonically observe the distal end of the surgical instrument reaching a target area in the body wall.

When the ultrasonic transducer 52 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is in contact with the body wall in order to ultrasonically observe the body wall, the distance between the body wall and the objective lens 38 is nearly constant. At this time, the size of the area under observation can be easily estimated by properly displaying the dimension indicator 90 , such as the grid 90 a or scale 90 b, on the optical observation monitor 86 .

When another surgical instrument is inserted through the first forceps channel 22 , the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic probe 50 is preferably altered. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3A, the ultrasonic transducer 52 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is rotated so that the central axis C ₁of the first forceps channel 22 passes through the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 . In other words, the first forceps channel 22 is disposed in the same plane as that in which the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 is disposed.

To rotate the ultrasonic probe 50 , the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 requires temporary disengagement from the probe channel opening 26 a. Therefore, the ultrasonic transducer 52 in the state shown in FIG. 8A is temporarily separated from the body wall BW. Then, the axially movable lever 62 is shifted from the state shown in FIG. 4C to the state shown in FIG. 4B so that the holding portion 54 projects from the probe channel opening 26 a. In this condition, the rotation knob 72 is operated. Consequently, the transducer cable 58 receives the force, and the holding portion 54 at the distal end of the transducer cable 58 is rotated, as shown in FIG. 8B. Accordingly, the ultrasonic transducer 52 of the holding portion 54 can be rotated around the axis. In this condition, the movable lever 62 is returned to its original position, as shown in FIG. 8C. Consequently, the central axis C ₁of the first forceps channel 22 intersects the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 , as shown in FIG. 3A.

Then, the ultrasonic transducer 52 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is brought into contact with a target area while optically viewed. At this time, projection of the surgical instrument from the forceps channel opening 22 a of the first forceps channel 22 may be optically viewed. After the distal end of the surgical instrument is inserted into the body wall, the position of the surgical instrument is ultrasonically viewed.

The following benefits and advantages are obtained from the first embodiment described above.

The ultrasonic transducer 52 is fixed in such a position that it projects from the distal end face of the insertion section 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 . Accordingly, while the focal length FL required for optical observation from the distal end face of the insertion section 12 is maintained relative to the body wall BW including the target area, the same site can be ultrasonically observed. That is, substantially the same site can be observed both optically and ultrasonically.

When the ultrasonic transducer 52 is in contact with the body wall BW, the focal length FL between the body wall BW and the objective lens 38 is fixed. The fixed focal length FL for optical observation allows the determination of the size of the area in focus. Accordingly, the dimension indicator 90 for estimating the dimensions of the area being observed can be displayed on the optical observation monitor 86 so as to be superimposed on the image being optically observed, and the dimensions of the area of interest can be specified.

The ultrasonic transducer 52 can be rotated in relation to the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 . Particularly, the ultrasonic transducer 52 is rotatable between the position where the central axis C ₁of the first forceps channel 22 is disposed on the central axis of the ultrasonic transducer 52 and the position where the central axis C ₂of the second forceps channel 24 is disposed on the central axis of the ultrasonic transducer 52 . That is, the ultrasonic transducer 52 is fixable at more than one angle by rotation. In addition, since the ultrasonic scanning surface (i.e., ultrasonic oscillating surface) S is located on the central axis of the ultrasonic transducer 52 , either of the distal ends, or suchlike, of a surgical instrument projecting in the body wall from the first and second forceps channels 22 and 24 can be selectively viewed on the ultrasonic observation monitor 88 . This makes it easy to view the distal ends or the like of the surgical instrument during a delicate surgical operation. It enhances the secure application of surgery.

In the foregoing, a description was given in the case where the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 has the shape of an approximately regular hexagonal prism. However, any other approximately regular polygonal pyramid such as an approximately regular hexagonal pyramid is also suitable. In this case, the cross-section becomes smaller toward the proximal end of the ultrasonic probe 50 . This allows a smaller size of the probe channel opening 26 a of the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 , in comparison with the case where the holding portion 54 has the shape of an approximately regular hexagonal prism.

Incidentally, the dimension indicator 90 can also be displayed on the optical observation monitor 86 in such a manner as described below.

In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 6, also an operation panel 126 is coupled to the CPU 104 of the video processor 82 , as shown in FIG. 9. The operation panel 126 is capable of switching between the displayed and non-displayed states of the dimension indicator 90 . In this case, the dimension indicator 90 can be displayed regardless of whether ultrasonic observation using the ultrasonic transducer 52 takes place or not.

Further, the dimension indicator 90 may be displayed in the manner described below.

As shown in FIG. 10, the endoscope 10 incorporates a touch sensor 128 , which is coupled to the video processor 82 . Upon sensing a touch, the touch sensor 128 supplies a signal to the CPU 104 so as to allow switching between the displayed and non-displayed states of the dimension indicator 90 . In this case, the dimension indicator 90 can be displayed regardless of whether ultrasonic observation using the ultrasonic transducer 52 takes place or not.

It is also preferable that the operation panel 126 shown in FIG. 9 be coupled to the CPU 104 of the video processor 82 . Accordingly, in response to a touch sensed by the touch sensor 128 , switching between the displayed and non-displayed states of the dimension indicator 90 may be achieved through the operation panel 126 .

A second embodiment, which is a modified example of the first embodiment, will now be described with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 11A, the probe channel opening 26 a of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 of the endoscope 10 has a pair of angle fixing grooves (i.e., recesses) 26 d and 26 e. The angle fixing grooves 26 d and 26 e extend in the direction of the center C ₁of the first forceps channel 22 and in the direction of the center C ₂of the second forceps channel 24 , respectively.

As shown in FIG. 11B, formed on the semispherical part 56 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is a flat rib (i.e., projection) 60 radially extending from the central axis of the ultrasonic probe 50 . When the ultrasonic probe 50 rotates, the rib 60 fits into the angle fixing groove 26 d or 26 e, thereby positioning the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 in relation to the ultrasonic probe channel 26 .

In this case, instead of a polygonal prism, such as an approximately regular hexagonal prism, or an approximately polygonal pyramid, the holding portion 54 may be an approximate cylinder, an approximately truncated cone, or the like. This also applies to the probe channel opening 26 a of the ultrasonic probe channel 26 .

Further, as shown in FIG. 11B, the rib 60 is formed on the semispherical part 56 . Setting the rib 60 in a required position between the holding portion 54 and the semispherical part 56 , the projected position of the ultrasonic transducer 52 from the distal end face of the insertion section 12 can be properly defined. In addition, the axial length of the rib 60 is appropriately set.

In the second embodiment, a description was given exemplifying the case where only one rib 60 is formed on the ultrasonic probe 50 . However, it may be preferable that a plurality of ribs 60 be formed, for example, in the circumferential direction of the semispherical part 56 . In this case, it is necessary that more than one pair of angle fixing grooves (i.e., more than two angle fixing grooves) be formed.

Further, the relation between the angle fixing grooves 26 d and 26 e and the rib 60 may be reversed. That is, projections may replace the angle fixing grooves, and recesses may replace the projections in order to serve as ribs. Such a design also enables the ultrasonic transducer 52 to be fixed at two or more angles by rotation.

The rib 60 is not limited to a flat shape but may equally be a member having a curved shape. In this case, the angle fixing grooves 26 d and 26 e should also be of a corresponding shape so as to be engaged with the rib 60 . As long as the distal end of the ultrasonic probe 50 may be engaged or disengaged with the distal end of the insertion section 12 in a desired condition by specifying the shape, any shape can be used.

As in a fifth embodiment described below (see FIG. 14A), if the central axis (i.e., ultrasonic scanning surface) S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 needs to be displaced by distance D, for example, from the center C ₁of the first channel 22 , the fixed groove 26 d may be displaced or another fixed groove may be formed adjacent to the fixed groove 26 d shown in FIG. 11A.

A third embodiment, which is a modified example of the first and second embodiments, will now be described with reference to FIGS. 12A to 12D, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 12A, disposed in the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 are a first ultrasonic transducer 52 a and a second ultrasonic transducer 52 b. The first ultrasonic transducer 52 a is disposed in the same manner as the first embodiment. The second ultrasonic transducer 52 b is disposed on one side face of the holding portion 54 . Specifically, the second ultrasonic transducer 52 b is disposed near the first forceps channel 22 and second forceps channel 24 .

As in the first embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 50 according to the third embodiment is movable in the direction of and rotatable around its axis. As described in the first embodiment, the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 suitably projects from the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 . The length of the projection of the holding portion 54 from the distal end rigid portion 32 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is adjusted to the focal length FL of the objective lens 38 , as shown in FIG. 12B. At this time, the second ultrasonic transducer 52 b projects from the distal end rigid portion 32 and is directed toward the first forceps channel 22 or second forceps channel 24 .

In the third embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12C and 12D, the first ultrasonic transducer 52 a of the ultrasonic probe 50 is pulled into a plane almost the same as that of the face of the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 . Therefore, in the third embodiment, the stroke of the axial movement of the ultrasonic probe 50 is greater than that in the first embodiment, or the axial length of the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is shorter than that in the first embodiment. Such a configuration allows the second ultrasonic transducer 52 b to be switched between the exposed position and the accommodated position inside the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 .

The following benefits and advantages are obtained from the third embodiment.

The second ultrasonic transducer 52 b disposed on the side face of the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 can be selectively fixed in the projected position or the accommodated position inside the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 . Accommodating the second ultrasonic transducer 52 b inside the distal end rigid portion 32 allows a shorter length for the hard portion that is the sum of the length of the distal end rigid portion 32 and the length of the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 projecting from the distal end rigid portion 32 , than that in the first embodiment. The short hard portion is less apt to bend when being introduced in a passage inside a body cavity. Accordingly, insertion efficiency is improved.

The first ultrasonic transducer 52 a or second ultrasonic transducer 52 b can be selectively oscillated or they can be simultaneously oscillated. This allows selective or simultaneous display of ultrasonically observed images on the monitor 88 . Displaying both the ultrasonically observed images allows observation in a wider range, and hence ultrasonic observation at a larger scanning angle, than the case of displaying only one of the images.

By projecting the first ultrasonic transducer 52 a of the ultrasonic probe 50 from the distal end of the insertion section 12 , the vicinity of an area being ultrasonically observed can also be optically observed at the same time, as described in the first embodiment.

Incidentally, even if the second ultrasonic transducer 52 b is oscillated when the holding portion 54 of the ultrasonic probe 50 is accommodated inside the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 , an ultrasonically observed image cannot be obtained from the second ultrasonic transducer 52 b. In addition, this condition does not allow the first ultrasonic transducer 52 a to obtain an ultrasonically observed image and an optically observed image, because the body wall is too close to the first ultrasonic transducer 52 a in relation to the focal length required for the optical observation such that it is impossible to simultaneously observe substantially the same area. This also applies to the configurations of conventional ultrasonic endoscopes.

A fourth embodiment, which is a modified example of the third embodiment, will now be described with reference to FIG. 13, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

In the fourth embodiment, the first ultrasonic transducer 52 a and second ultrasonic transducer 52 b described in the third embodiment are connected so as to be integrated, as shown in FIG. 13. That is, a single ultrasonic transducer 52 c extends from the distal end of the holding portion 54 to one sidewall thereof. Other features of the configuration and operations are identical to those in the third embodiment.

This ultrasonic transducer 52 c is controllable in three modes: oscillating only a distal end portion (i.e., scanning), oscillating only a side-face portion, and oscillating both of them. This allows selective ultrasonic observation using the distal end portion, side-face portion, or both, of the ultrasonic transducer 52 c.

Next, a fifth embodiment, which is a modified example of the first to fourth embodiments, will now be described with reference to FIGS. 14A to 15B, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

On the scanning surface of the ultrasonic transducer 52 described in each of the first to fourth embodiments are the center C ₁of the first forceps channel and the center C ₂of the second forceps channel 24 . When a surgical instrument 132 is inserted in an ultrasonic observation area, as shown in FIG. 15B, the surgical instrument 132 reflects ultrasonic waves. Consequently, ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer 52 do not reach a site Sh that is beyond the surgical instrument 132 . This makes it difficult to obtain an ultrasonically observed image of a site beyond the surgical instrument 132 . However, the configuration described below makes it easy for an ultrasonic wave to reach a site located far away from the ultrasonic transducer 52 , as shown in FIG. 15A. As a result, the ultrasonically observed image of the site can be obtained.

As shown in FIG. 14A, there is a displacement D between the central axis (ultrasonic scanning surface) S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 and the center C ₁of the first channel 22 . There is also a displacement D between the central axis (ultrasonic scanning surface) S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 and the center C ₂of the second channel 24 .

Further, as shown in FIG. 14B, the distal end of the second forceps channel 24 slightly inclines, for example, by an angle α with respect to the axis of the insertion section 12 . The central axis C ₂of the second forceps channel 24 intersects the central axis (ultrasonic scanning surface) S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 outside the insertion section 12 of the endoscope 10 . FIG. 14B illustrates the case of the second forceps channel 24 , while the first forceps channel 22 has the same configuration as the second forceps channel 24 .

Next, a description will be given of the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 according to the fifth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 14C, the surgical instrument 132 is obliquely introduced from, for example, the distal end of the second channel 24 toward an area S to be ultrasonically observed. Consequently, the surgical instrument 132 intersects the central axis (scanning surface) S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 close to a predetermined position P. The inclination angle α between the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 and the distal end of the second channel 24 is small. This does not mean that only the area where the surgical instrument 132 intersects the scanning surface of the ultrasonic transducer 52 is ultrasonically observable. On the contrary, an image is displayed on the ultrasonic observation monitor 88 such that the density at the intersecting position P of the surgical instrument and ultrasonic scanning surface S is highest and the density gradually decreases further from the intersecting position P. This makes it possible to view the surgical instrument 132 not only at the intersecting position P of the surgical instrument and ultrasonic scanning surface S but also over the entire observation area S, depending on the use condition.

The surgical instrument 132 substantially totally reflects only ultrasonic waves at the intersecting position P of the surgical instrument 132 and scanning surface S, and does not reflect ultrasonic waves in other sites. This minimizes interception of ultrasonic oscillation transmitted from the ultrasonic transducer 52 , and enables ultrasonic waves to reach sites located farther than the intersecting position P of the surgical instrument 132 and scanning surface S. Accordingly, sites located far away from the ultrasonic transducer 52 can be displayed on the monitor 88 .

In the fifth embodiment, a description was given exemplifying the case where the surgical instrument 132 is inserted in the second forceps channel 24 . However, the same may be applied to a surgical instrument inserted in the first forceps channel 22 .

The following benefits and advantages are obtained from the fifth embodiment.

The forceps channels 22 and 24 are slightly bent near the channel openings 22 a and 24 a respectively. Therefore, when inserted in each forceps channel 22 , 24 , the surgical instrument 132 projects from the channel opening 22 a, 24 a while in contact with the internal face of the channel opening 22 a, 24 a. This prevents backlash (i.e., play) of the surgical instrument 132 against the forceps channels 22 and 24 . This also causes the central axis of the surgical instrument 132 to incline when the surgical instrument 132 projects from each channel opening 22 a, 24 a, thus enabling the surgical instrument 132 to intersect the scanning surface S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 . Consequently, an ultrasonic wave is transmitted farther than the intersecting position P with the surgical instrument 132 . Accordingly, a satisfactory ultrasonically observed image can be obtained even if the target area is beyond the surgical instrument 132 .

A sixth embodiment, which is a modified example of the first to fourth embodiments, will now be described with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

Unlike the convex type ultrasonic transducer 52 of the distal end of the ultrasonic probe 50 according to each of the first to third embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 52 according to the sixth embodiment is of a concave type, as shown in FIG. 16B. The first forceps channel 22 and the objective lens 38 are disposed on the central axis S of the ultrasonic transducer 52 as shown in FIG. 16A. The first forceps channel 22 is defined almost in the middle of the distal end rigid portion 32 .

Accordingly, focusing positions for ultrasonic observation and optical observation coincide by adjusting the concave shape of the ultrasonic transducer 52 or the focal length. This allows ultrasonic observation and optical observation of substantially the same area. Additionally, the first forceps channel 22 is defined in the middle, which makes it possible to optically and ultrasonically view a surgical instrument projecting from the distal end of the first forceps channel 22 .

Incidentally, since ultrasonic oscillation resists passage of gases such as air, any space between the ultrasonic transducer 52 and a body wall needs to be filled with a member, such as an abdominal cavity fluid or physiological saline, that satisfactorily transmits ultrasonic oscillation.

The following benefits and advantages are obtained from the sixth embodiment.

The concave type ultrasonic transducer 52 makes the focal length and focal position for ultrasonic observation and those for optical observation substantially the same, thus allowing both ultrasonic observation and optical observation of the same area.

Additionally, disposing the first forceps channel 22 between the objective lens 38 and ultrasonic probe channel 26 makes it possible to optically and ultrasonically view the position, etc. of a surgical instrument relative to a body wall BW.

A seventh embodiment, which is a modified example of the sixth embodiment, will now be described with reference to FIG. 17, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 17, a cap 142 is fixed to the periphery of the distal end rigid portion 32 of the insertion section 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 . It is preferable that the cap 142 be transparent. The cap 142 may be made of a flexible material such as silicone so that the distal end of the cap 142 is properly deformable when in contact with the body wall BW and may be brought into close contact with the body wall BW.

Next, a description will be given of the operation of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 according to the seventh embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 17, the distal end of the insertion section 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 is introduced into a passage inside a body cavity, with the cap 142 fixed to the distal end of the insertion section 12 . Then, the distal end of the cap 142 is pressed against a body wall. Consequently, the body wall BW, the internal face of the cap 142 , and the face of the distal end rigid portion 32 define an empty space. In this condition, a transparent liquid 144 such as a physiological saline is injected into this space through the forceps channel 22 , so that the space is filled with the liquid (physiological saline) 144 . For example, the physiological saline should be transparent and satisfactorily capable of transmitting ultrasonic oscillation. Accordingly, the endoscope 10 allows ultrasonic observation of the vicinity of the surface of the body wall BW in the direction of depth as well as optical observation of the surface of the body wall BW.

The following benefits and advantages are obtained from the seventh embodiment.

The cap 142 is made of a flexible material, which is deformable when brought into contact with the body wall BW. Therefore, even though the cap 142 projects from the distal end rigid portion 32 , the cap 142 does not block the introduction of the insertion section 12 into a passage inside a body cavity.

The medium 144 , such as physiological saline, which is transparent and capable of transmitting ultrasonic oscillation is injected using the channel 22 . This makes it possible to obtain an optically observed image using the transparent medium 144 as well as an ultrasonically observed image. At this time, as described in the sixth embodiment, the focused position of an ultrasonically observed image and that of an optically observed image substantially coincide. Accordingly, an ultrasonically observed image and optically observed image of substantially the same area can be obtained.

An eighth embodiment, which is a modified example of the seventh embodiment, will now be described with reference to FIG. 18, in which like numbers indicate like elements and the explanation thereof will be omitted.

The space defined by a body wall BW, the internal circumferential wall of the cap 142 , and the face of the distal end rigid portion 32 , is not necessarily filled with the liquid medium 144 such as a physiological saline injected through the forceps channel 22 , as described in the seventh embodiment.

Instead, a transparent block 146 , for example, may be suitably disposed in this space so as to be in close contact with the ultrasonic transducer 52 , as shown in FIG. 18. In terms of ultrasonic transmission, light transmission, biocompatibility, contact with a body cavity, mechanical strength, etc, it is preferable that the block 146 be made of, for example, a material from which soft contact lenses are made.

Preferable examples of the material for the block 146 include a hydrous gel polymer of polyhydroxy ethyl methacrylate (PHEMA), an anhydrous silicone hydogel (SH), a hydrous gel polymer of agar, and an anhydrous epoxy resin.

Since the PHEMA contains water, it excels in ultrasonic transmission, but is not very strong. This enables certain types of surgical instrument to pierce through the block 146 when projecting from the forceps channel opening 22 a disposed in contact with the block 146 . Consequently, the surgical instrument projecting from the forceps channel 22 and piercing through the block 146 also appears on the ultrasonic image.

Since SH is nonionic, it excels in stain resistance. For instance, even if the surface of the block 146 comes into contact with a waste material remaining on a wall of the alimentary canal, a satisfactory optical visual field can be obtained through the block 146 .

Agar is a biocompatible material. Even in the event that agar is deposited within a body cavity, it does not affect any tissue. In addition, agar is not very strong. This enables certain types of surgical instrument to pierce through the block 146 when projecting from the forceps channel opening 22 a disposed in contact with the block 146 . Consequently, the surgical instrument projecting from the forceps channel 22 and piercing through the block 146 also appears on the ultrasonic image.

Some epoxy resins excel in chemical resistance. The block 146 using such a chemical-resistant epoxy resin is reusable after disinfection or sterilization.

Next, a ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 to 21D.

As shown in FIG. 19, the ninth embodiment uses two ultrasonic endoscopes (first and second endoscopes) 10 a and 10 b. The first endoscope 10 a is inserted in a passage inside a body cavity, such as the stomach St, through the mouth. On the other hand, the second endoscope 10 b is inserted in the body cavity outside the stomach St by way of the skin. Then, the first endoscope 10 a and second endoscope 10 b are disposed opposite to each other with the stomach wall SW therebetween, as shown in FIG. 20. In this case, for example, an ultrasonic transducer for ultrasonic wave transmission (not shown) is disposed at the distal end of an insertion section 12 a of the first endoscope 10 a, whereas an ultrasonic transducer for ultrasonic wave reception (not shown) is disposed at the distal end of an insertion section 12 b of the second endoscope 10 b. Then, the insertion section 12 a of the first endoscope 10 a and the insertion section 12 b of the second endoscope 10 b may be moved relative to one another so as to adjust to the position where reception of ultrasonic oscillation is strongest.

This facilitates alignment of the distal ends of the insertion sections 12 a and 12 b of the endoscopes 10 a and 10 b so that the distal ends face each other. In addition, when a needle pierces through a stomach wall SW (i.e., body cavity wall), the distal end of the needle having pierced through the wall is brought into contact with the distal end of the insertion section 12 b of the second endoscope 10 b. This improves the safety of a surgical operation. Further, this facilitates transfer of a thread while suturing.

In the ninth embodiment, the first endoscope 10 a incorporates the ultrasonic transducer for transmission while the second endoscope 10 b incorporates the ultrasonic transducer for reception. However, it is also preferable that each endoscope 10 a, 10 b incorporate both an ultrasonic transducer for transmission and one for reception.

Referring to FIGS. 21A to 21D, other related operations using the two endoscopes 10 a and 10 b will now be described.

As shown in FIG. 21A, beyond an intestinal wall IW may be an internal organ IO that must not be injured. In such a case, the ultrasonic endoscope 10 a is introduced into the passage inside the body cavity through the mouth. Then, the area of interest AOI is viewed through ultrasonic observation.

Subsequently, the ultrasonic endoscope (or ultrasonic probe) 10 b is introduced by way of the skin. The distal end of the insertion section 12 a of the endoscope 10 a introduced through the mouth and the distal end of the insertion section 12 b of the endoscope 10 b introduced by way of the skin are disposed opposite to each other with the intestinal wall IW therebetween. As shown in FIG. 21B, an ultrasonic transducer 152 a at the distal end of the insertion section 12 a of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 a introduced through the mouth is used for transmission, and an ultrasonic transducer 152 b at the distal end of the insertion section 12 b of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 b introduced by way of the skin for reception. At this time, attempts are made to determine the position where the signal received by the endoscope 10 b introduced by way of the skin is strongest. The position of the strongest reception indicates the alignment where the two ultrasonic transducers 152 a and 152 b face each other. At this time, the distal end of the insertion section 12 b of the endoscope 10 b introduced by way of the skin pushes away the internal organ IO that must not be injured.

The ultrasonic endoscope 10 b introduced by way of the skin is further separated from the area of interest AOI. As a result, a space SP is defined between the intestinal wall IW and the internal organ IO, as shown in FIG. 21C.

As shown in FIG. 21D, even in the case where a needle 154 pierces through the intestinal wall IW in this condition, the ultrasonic transducer 152 b of the ultrasonic endoscope 10 b disposed in the opposite position prevents the distal end of the needle 154 from coming into contact with other sites or injuring these sites.

The following benefits and advantages are obtained from the ninth embodiment.

The transmission and reception of ultrasonic oscillation makes it easier to align the ultrasonic transducer 152 a of the endoscope 10 a and the ultrasonic transducer 152 b of the endoscope 10 b (or ultrasonic probe) in opposition. Accordingly, a space SP can be defined between the body wall and the ultrasonic transducer 152 b. In addition, the surgical instrument 154 piercing toward the ultrasonic transducer 152 b prevents other sites from being injured.

Next, a tenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 22A to 25C.

As shown in FIGS. 22A to 22E, an endoscopic system 200 includes a main body case 202 , an optical observation endoscope 210 a, an ultrasonic observation endoscope 210 b, and an ultrasonic probe 210 c.

The optical observation endoscope 210 shown in FIGS. 22A to 22C has a long thin insertion section 212 a, and an operation section 214 a disposed at the proximal end of the insertion section 212 a. A forceps channel (forceps channel) 222 and an optical observation system incorporating an objective lens 224 are inserted in the insertion section 212 a and the operation section 214 a. The insertion section 212 a includes a distal end rigid portion 232 a, a bending portion 234 a, and a flexible tubular portion 236 a. An objective lens 238 and a channel opening 222 a of the forceps channel 222 are disposed parallel to each other in the distal end rigid portion 232 a.

The operation section 214 a of the optical observation endoscope 210 a is approximately rectangular parallel-epipedic so as to be disposed in a slot 262 a (described below) formed in the main body case 202 . Engagement grooves (i.e., notches) 242 with which a slide lever 264 a (described below) engages are formed in the external faces of the operation section 214 a so as to be perpendicular to the axial direction of the insertion section 212 a. These engagement grooves 242 are opposite to each other. Coaxially disposed on the upper face of the operation section 214 a are a vertical angle knob 244 a in the form of a wheel (i.e., dial) for vertically curving the bending portion 234 a and a lateral angle knob 244 b in the form of a wheel (i.e., dial) for laterally curving the bending portion. A forceps mouthpiece 222 b is disposed on the operation section 214 a and on the proximal end side opening of the forceps channel 222 .

The ultrasonic observation endoscope 210 b shown in FIGS. 22A, 22 B, and 22 D includes a thin long insertion section 212 b, and an operation section 214 b disposed at the proximal end of the insertion section 212 b. A forceps channel (forceps channel) 226 and an ultrasonic observation system incorporating an ultrasonic transducer 228 are inserted in the insertion section 212 b and the operation section 214 b. The insertion section 212 b includes a distal end rigid portion 232 b, a bending portion 234 b, and a flexible tubular portion 236 b. The ultrasonic transducer 228 is disposed on the distal end rigid portion 232 b, and the channel opening 226 a of the forceps channel 226 is also formed in the distal end rigid portion 232 b.

The configuration of the operation section 214 b of the ultrasonic observation endoscope 210 b is similar to the operation section 214 a of the optical observation endoscope 210 a.

The ultrasonic probe 210 c includes a thin long insertion section 212 c, and an operation section 214 c disposed on the proximal end of the insertion section 212 c. An ultrasonic observation system incorporating an ultrasonic transducer 230 is inserted in the insertion section 212 c and operation section 214 c. The insertion section 212 c includes a distal end rigid portion 232 c, a bending portion 234 c, and a flexible tubular portion 236 c. The ultrasonic transducer 230 is disposed on the face of the distal end rigid portion 232 c.

The configuration of the operation section 214 c of the ultrasonic probe 210 is similar to the operation section 214 a of the optical observation endoscope 210 a and the operation section 214 b of the ultrasonic observation endoscope 210 b. Since a channel is not formed in the ultrasonic probe 210 c, the ultrasonic probe 210 c is not provided with a forceps mouthpiece.

The main body case 202 includes a holding portion 252 and a sheath 254 . The holding portion 252 is sectioned into three slots 262 a, 262 b, and 262 c, and slide levers (i.e., parts for adjusting the lengths of the insertion sections 212 a, 212 b, and 212 c projecting from the distal end of the sheath 254 ) 264 a, 264 b, and 264 c are provided for the corresponding slots 262 a, 262 b, and 262 c. The slide levers 264 a, 264 b, and 264 c are vertically operable, as viewed from FIG. 22A.

The operation section 214 a of the optical observation endoscope 210 a is disposed in the first slot 262 a, the operation section 214 b of the ultrasonic observation