JP4611053B2 - Intra-subject introduction device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention incorporates a function execution means for executing a predetermined function, and is formed in a string shape with a capsule introduced into the subject via the oral cavity, connected to the capsule, and the capsule is in the subject. The present invention relates to an in-subject introduction apparatus provided with a position adjusting member that is partly located outside the subject when introduced into the subject and adjusts the position of the capsule by at least pulling the part.

  In recent years, in the field of endoscopes, swallowable capsule endoscopes have been proposed. This capsule endoscope is provided with an imaging function and a wireless communication function. The capsule endoscope is swallowed from the mouth of the subject for observation (examination) until it is spontaneously discharged until it is spontaneously discharged. It has a function of moving and taking images of the in-subject image at intervals of 0.5 seconds, for example.

  While moving inside the body cavity, image data captured inside the body by the capsule endoscope is sequentially transmitted to the outside by wireless communication and stored in a memory provided outside. By carrying a receiver having a wireless communication function and a memory function, the subject can freely act after swallowing the capsule endoscope and before being discharged. After the capsule endoscope is ejected, the doctor or nurse can make a diagnosis by displaying an organ image on the display based on the image data stored in the memory (see, for example, Patent Document 1). .)

  By the way, the thing which attached the string-like member for a pull to the exterior part of a capsule type endoscope is proposed. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a capsule endoscope provided with such a string-like member. Specifically, the capsule endoscope shown in FIG. 12 includes a capsule 101 incorporating an imaging mechanism, a string-like member 102 having one end fixed to the capsule 101, and the other end of the string-like member 102. It is comprised by the connected holding part 103. FIG.

  The string-like member 102 is for pulling the capsule 101 introduced into the subject from the outside. Specifically, for example, when capturing an in-subject image in the esophagus, it is difficult to perform a sufficient imaging operation because a general capsule endoscope moves at high speed in the esophagus. Exists. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the position of the capsule 101 in the subject or the position of the capsule 101 can be obtained by connecting one end of the string-like member 102 to the capsule 101 and pulling the grip portion 103 connected to the other end. It is possible to adjust the moving speed. By adopting such a configuration, even in an area such as the esophagus, the moving speed of the capsule endoscope can be reduced to capture a large number of in-subject images, and the subject can be re-examined with respect to the already passed area. An internal image can be taken.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-19111

  However, the above-described conventional capsule endoscope has the problem that the burden on the patient (subject) is heavy when swallowed or when the position of the capsule 101 is adjusted because the string-like member 102 is provided. Hereinafter, this problem will be described in detail.

  From the viewpoint of reducing the burden on the subject at the time of introduction, the string-like member 102 is preferably formed in a thin thread shape. That is, since the conventional capsule endoscope 100 is configured to be introduced into the subject via the oral cavity, from the viewpoint of reducing the feeling of foreign matter given to the subject when passing through the oral cavity and making it easier to drink. It is necessary to form the string-like member 102 in a thread shape.

  On the other hand, when position adjustment is performed, it is not preferable that the string-like member 102 is formed in a thread shape. That is, when the position of the capsule 101 is adjusted using the string-like member 102, the end portion of the string-like member 102 located outside the subject (the end opposite to the side connected to the capsule 101) is used. The position adjustment is performed by the person pulling or the like, and the string-like member 102 is tensioned. And, as is clear in view of the structure of the digestive organs of the human body, since the path from the oral cavity where the capsule endoscope is introduced to the esophagus has a structure that is curved at a substantially right angle, the capsule 101 is esophagus, When it is introduced to the stomach or the like, the string-like member 102 comes into contact with the body tissue of the subject (for example, the epiglottis) in the vicinity of the curved structure. When the string-like member 102 having a predetermined tension comes into contact with the body tissue in the vicinity of the curved structure, a pressing force is applied from the string-like member 102 to the body tissue. The subject will feel a strong sense of incongruity, and the burden on the subject associated with the use of the capsule endoscope will increase.

  In particular, when the capsule 101 is taken out of the subject through the oral cavity after the examination using the capsule endoscope, the burden on the subject becomes more conspicuous. As described above, one end of the string-like member 102 is connected to the capsule 101 and the position is adjusted by pulling the other end outside the subject. It will be performed by the same operation. Therefore, the subject continues to receive a pressing force in the body tissue such as the epiglottis for a predetermined time until the capsule 101 is taken out of the subject again, and it is necessary to endure a strong sense of incongruity for a long time. .

  Further, in a situation where the capsule 101 is in contact with the epiglottis or the like, the difference in outer diameter between the string-like member 102 and the capsule 101 is large. Therefore, when the conventional capsule endoscope 100 is used, it is difficult to smoothly pass the epiglottis, and the discontinuity between the outer surface of the string-like member 102 and the outer surface of the capsule 101 is caused. As a result, there is also a problem that the subject receives a strong sense of incongruity.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and is a capsule endoscope or the like in which a position adjustment member such as a string-like member is provided with respect to a capsule incorporating a predetermined function execution unit such as an imaging mechanism. It is an object of the present invention to provide an intra-subject introduction device that reduces the burden on the subject when introducing a capsule into the subject and adjusting the position after introduction.

  Another object of the present invention is to realize an in-subject introduction apparatus that reduces a strong sense of incongruity caused by a difference between an outer diameter of a capsule and an outer diameter of a string-like member that pulls the capsule.

In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the in-subject introduction device according to the present invention incorporates function execution means for executing a predetermined function and is introduced into the subject via the oral cavity. A position where the capsule is connected to the capsule and part of the capsule remains outside the subject when the capsule is introduced into the subject, and the capsule is adjusted by at least pulling the part. An in-subject introduction apparatus comprising an adjustment member, wherein the position adjustment member adjusts the position of the capsule more than the contact area of the subject with the body tissue when the capsule is introduced into the subject. It is characterized in that it is formed so as to increase the contact area between the body tissue of the subject when performing.

According to the present invention, the position adjustment member is formed so that the contact area of the subject with the body tissue is larger when the position of the capsule is adjusted than when the capsule is introduced into the subject. At this time, the uncomfortable feeling that the position adjusting member gives to the subject can be reduced or eliminated.

In the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the present invention , in the above invention, the position adjusting member is partially fixed to the capsule, and is introduced into the subject when the capsule is introduced into the subject. A thread-like member that forms the outer surface of the position-adjusting member, and a conduit that has a larger outer diameter than the thread-like member and passes through the thread-like member, and after the capsule is introduced into the subject, A tube member that is introduced into the subject while maintaining the state where the thread-like member is inserted through the duct, and forms an outer surface of the position adjusting member inside the subject when the position is adjusted. It is characterized by.

In addition, in the above- described invention , the in-subject introduction device according to the present invention may be configured so that a gap between the outer surface of the capsule and the outer surface of the position adjusting member is not present in the vicinity of the connection portion between the capsule and the position adjusting member. It further comprises a conical member that relaxes continuity.

Further, in the subject introduction apparatus according to the present invention , in the above invention, the cone-shaped member has an outer diameter substantially equal to an outer diameter of the position adjusting member at an end portion on the position adjusting member side, The outer diameter increases continuously as it approaches the capsule, and is formed to have an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter at the contact portion of the capsule with the cone-shaped member at the end of the capsule. Features.

In the in-subject introduction device according to the present invention , in the above invention, the cone-shaped member is formed in a portion connected to the position adjusting member, and extends over a predetermined length in a conduit formed in the tube member. And a connection reinforcing portion that reinforces a connection portion between the conical member and the tube member when inserted into the conduit.

In addition, the in-subject introduction device according to the present invention is the above-described invention, wherein the thread-like member is located within the subject based on the pressing force from the end of the tube member on the side separated from the capsule. It is further characterized by further comprising a detecting means for detecting whether or not the outer surface is exposed.

Further, the in-subject introduction device according to the present invention is the elastic member according to the above invention, wherein the detection means changes in length according to the pressing force from the end of the tube member on the side away from the capsule. And a detection operation is performed based on the length of the elastic member in the direction in which the pressing force is applied.

Further, the in-subject introduction device according to the present invention is the side separated from the capsule so as to maintain this state when the detection means indicates that the filamentous member is not exposed in the above invention. And a fixing means for fixing the length of the thread-like member between the end of the tube member and the capsule.

  The in-subject introduction apparatus according to the present invention is formed so that the contact area with the body tissue of the subject is larger when the position adjustment member performs the position adjustment of the capsule than when the position adjustment member introduces the capsule into the subject. There is an effect that it is possible to reduce or eliminate the uncomfortable feeling that the position adjusting member gives to the subject during the position adjustment.

  Hereinafter, an in-subject introduction apparatus which is the best mode for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter simply referred to as “embodiment”) will be described. Note that the drawings are schematic, and it should be noted that the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the ratio of the thickness of each part, and the like are different from the actual ones. Of course, the part from which the relationship and ratio of a mutual dimension differ is contained.

(Embodiment 1)
First, the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure of the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment has a capsule 1 including a function execution unit that executes a predetermined function, a string-like structure, and is connected to the capsule 1. When the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject, the position adjusting member 2 extended by a predetermined length so that a part of the capsule 1 is located outside the subject, and the cone disposed at the portion where the capsule 1 and the position adjusting member 2 are connected. And the detection member 4 for detecting whether or not the filamentous member 8 (described later) is exposed in the subject when the position adjustment is performed, and the doctor or the like grasps the in-subject introduction device during use. And a grip portion 5 used when performing the above.

  The capsule 1 has a structure in which a function execution unit is built in a casing having a predetermined shape. Specifically, the function execution unit 7 is arranged in an outer case formed of a material such as plastic, and the function execution unit 7 includes, for example, a predetermined objective optical system and an imaging element such as a CCD, so that the inside of the subject is And the like. The function executed by the function execution unit 7 need not be interpreted as being limited to the imaging function.

  The position adjusting member 2 is for adjusting the position of the capsule 1 inside the subject, and the contact area with the body tissue (for example, epiglottis) inside the subject is more than when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject. Has a structure formed so as to increase when the position adjustment is performed. The position adjustment of the capsule 1 mainly means that the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted in the subject when the function execution unit 7 executes a predetermined function. Since the operation of taking 1 out of the subject is nothing but the adjustment of the position of the capsule 1, the following description will be given on the assumption that the take-out operation is also included in the “position adjustment”.

  In the first embodiment, as a specific structure of the position adjusting member 2, at least a part that is fixed to the capsule 1 and is introduced into the subject when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject. A thread-like member 8 that forms the outer surface of the position-adjusting member 2 and a pipe line through which the thread-like member 8 is inserted and have an outer diameter larger than that of the thread-like member 8, and when adjusting the position of the capsule 1, The tube member 9 which forms the outer surface of the position adjusting member 2 with respect to the part located in this is provided.

  The thread-like member 8 is a member formed in a thread shape by a thin cotton thread or the like, and has a structure in which one end is fixed to the capsule 1 and the other end is fixed by the grasping portion 5 located outside the subject. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the vicinity of the capsule 1 in the intra-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, an accommodating portion 1 a having a predetermined recess is formed on the outer surface of the capsule 1, and one end of the thread-like member 8 is fixed with an adhesive or the like while being inserted into the accommodating portion 1 a. Has been.

  The tube member 9 is made of a flexible material, has an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the thread-like member 8, and has a structure in which a pipe line through which the thread-like member 8 is inserted is formed. The tube member 9 is arranged in a state where the thread-like member 8 is inserted into the pipe line, and has a structure that can freely move with respect to the thread-like member 8 while maintaining this state. As will be described in detail later, the tube member 9 maintains a state of being located outside the subject when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject, and the thread-like member 8 is inserted through the conduit after the capsule 1 is introduced. In this case, the outer surface of the position adjusting member 2 is formed in the subject when the capsule 1 is adjusted. As a material for forming the tube member 9, any material may be used as long as the above-described conditions can be satisfied. However, in the first embodiment, the tube member 9 is made of fluororesin. Trying to form.

  The conical member 3 is intended to alleviate the discontinuity between the outer surface of the capsule 1 and the outer surface of the position adjusting member 2 at the connection portion between the capsule 1 and the position adjusting member 2. Specifically, for example, the cone-shaped member 3 has an outer diameter of an end portion on the side connected to the position adjusting member 2 and an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the position adjusting member 2, and is on the side connected to the capsule 1. The outer diameter of the end portion has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the portion of the capsule 1 that contacts the end portion of the conical member 3, and the outer diameter is configured to continuously change between both end portions. . In the first embodiment, the “conical shape” means the outer periphery of the bottom surface (in the case of the first embodiment, the outer peripheral portion of the capsule 1) and the apex (in the case of the first embodiment, on the position adjusting member 2). It includes not only the case of being formed by a set of straight lines connecting one point), but also a structure formed by a set of curves connecting the outer periphery and the apex of the bottom surface, for example, a set of sin curves. Preferably, the conical member 3 has an outer surface that coincides with the tangent to the outer surface of the capsule 1 in the vicinity of the portion that contacts the capsule 1, and the position adjusting member in the vicinity of the portion that contacts the position adjusting member 2. 2 having a structure having an outer surface coinciding with a tangent to the outer surface. Further, the conical member 3 is preferably formed so that the value of the apex angle of the conical shape is 30 ° or less. By forming the apex angle so as to have a value, the space between the outer surface of the capsule 1 and the outer surface of the position adjusting member 2 changes more gently, and the discomfort given to the subject is more effectively reduced or reduced. This is because it can be eliminated.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the conical member 3 is formed by a plurality of small pieces 12 a to 12 n and an outer surface by an envelope surface (a surface indicated by a broken line in FIG. 2) formed by the outer peripheral portion of each member. Is defined such that the outer surface is conical. Specifically, the cone-shaped member 3 has a structure in which each of the small pieces 12a to 12n is sequentially stacked in a state where the thread-shaped member 8 is inserted through the formed through-hole. Each of the small pieces 12a to 12n includes spacers 10a to 10n each having a through hole through which the thread-like member 8 is inserted, and protrusions 11a to 11n protruding from the spacers 10a to 10n in a direction substantially perpendicular to the through direction of the through hole. .

  Each of the protrusions 11a to 11n has a dish shape in which the position adjustment member 2 side is convex, and the outer diameter of the cone-shaped member 3 is defined by the outer periphery of the dish shape. And these protrusion parts 11a-11n are formed so that the outer diameter of the protrusion part 11a is the largest, and the protrusion parts 11b, 11c,. For this reason, by providing the cone-shaped member 3 in which the small pieces 12a to 12n are sequentially stacked, the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment has the protrusion 11a at the connection portion between the capsule 1 and the position adjustment member 2. The outer peripheries of ˜11n change continuously, making it possible to alleviate the discontinuity of the outer surface at the connection portion.

  Moreover, the small pieces 12a-12n shall be laminated | stacked in the state which can each operate | move independently, without being fixed mutually. By using such a configuration, the cone-shaped member 3 as a whole has flexibility, and the position of the small pieces 12a to 12n smoothly changes in accordance with the movement of the thread-like member 8, and the thread-like member 8 is curved or the like. Even so, it is possible to maintain the continuity of the outer surface of the connecting portion between the position adjusting member 2 and the capsule 1.

  Further, in the small piece 12n that is in contact with the position adjusting member 2, the spacer 10n includes a protrusion that can be inserted over a predetermined length with respect to a conduit formed in the tube member. Such a protrusion functions as an example of a connection reinforcing portion in the claims. As a specific structure, the spacer 10n has a predetermined length in the direction in which the through hole is formed as compared with the spacer 10a or the like. Realized by stretching. By inserting such a protrusion into the conduit of the tube member 9 for a predetermined length, it is possible to reinforce the physical strength at the boundary portion between the position adjusting member 2 and the cone-shaped member 3. Further, the distal end surface of the tube member 9 is formed so as to have a radius Ra on the inner ridge line and a radius Rb on the outer ridge line. When the inner peripheral ridge line has a radius Ra, the connection with the spacer 10n is smoothly performed, and the outer peripheral ridge line has a radius Rb, thereby adjusting the position of the capsule 1 in the subject. Smooth contact with the inside of the subject can be realized.

  The detection member 4 functions as an example of detection means in the claims. When the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted, whether or not the filamentary member 8 is exposed on the surface in the subject is determined. This is for making a determination. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the detection member 4 is an elastic member (for example, a spring member) disposed between the grip portion 5 and the tube member 9 with the thread-like member 8 inserted therethrough. It is constituted by. The detection member 4 has a configuration capable of receiving a pressing force from the tube member 9 by contacting the end portion of the tube member 9 on the side separated from the capsule 1. In the first embodiment, based on the change in the length of the detection member 4 according to the pressing force, it is detected whether or not the thread-like member 8 is exposed on the surface of the position adjustment member 2 in the subject. Yes. The specific operation principle of the detection member 4 will be described in detail later.

  The grip portion 5 functions as a member that the user grips when adjusting the position of the capsule 1. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the position adjustment of the capsule 1 is performed directly by the user such as a doctor pulling the position adjustment member 2. In order to do this, the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment is provided with a grip portion 5 having a shape that is easy for a user to grip.

  In addition, the grip 5 has a function of fixing the length of the thread-like member 8 between the capsule 1 and the end of the tube member 9 on the side away from the capsule 1. Specifically, slit-shaped fixing portions 5a and 5b are formed in the grip portion 5, and the thread-like member 8 can be fixed by hooking the thread-like member 8 on the fixing portions 5a and 5b. The portion of the thread-like member 8 fixed by the fixing portions 5a and 5b can be arbitrarily changed, and the grip portion 5 is connected to the end portion of the tube member 9 on the side separated from the capsule 1 via the detection member 4. Therefore, when the user fixes an arbitrary portion of the thread-like member 8 with the fixing portions 5a and 5b, the gripping portion 5 is connected to the end portion of the tube member 9 on the side separated from the capsule 1 (hereinafter referred to as “grip”). It is possible to fix the length of the thread-like member 8 between the capsule 1 and the part-side end ”. Since the grasping unit 5 has such a function, as described later, the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment sufficiently increases the length of the thread-like member 8 when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject. By securing, it is possible to prevent the tube member 9 from being introduced into the subject and to prevent the filamentary member 8 from being exposed to the surface within the subject when the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted. Yes.

  Next, a usage mode of the intra-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment will be described. In the following, as usage modes, introduction of the capsule 1 into the subject, introduction of the tube member 9 performed after the introduction of the capsule 1, adjustment of the length of the filamentary member 8 performed after the introduction of the tube member 9, and the capsule 1 in the subject are performed. Position adjustment will be described sequentially.

  First, introduction of the capsule 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing how the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13 via the oral cavity. As shown in FIG. 3, in the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment, the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13 while holding the tube member 9 constituting the position adjusting member 2 outside the subject 13. To do. Specifically, when the capsule 1 is introduced, the gripping portion side end of the tube member 9 and the capsule 1 are adjusted in advance by adjusting the portion of the thread-like member 8 fixed by the fixing portions 5a and 5b provided in the gripping portion 5. By setting the length of the thread-like member 8 between them to a value sufficiently larger than the length of the tube member 9, a portion where the thread-like member 8 is exposed in the vicinity of the capsule 1 is secured, and the position along with the introduction of the capsule 1 is secured. Only the portion of the adjustment member 2 where the filamentous member 8 is exposed is introduced into the subject 13.

  Next, introduction of the tube member 9 to the subject 13 will be described. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing how the tube member 9 is introduced into the subject 13. Since the capsule 1 has already been introduced into the subject 13 when the tube member 9 is introduced, and the thread-like member 8 has a structure connected to the capsule 1, a part of the thread-like member 8 has already been placed in the subject 13. It is in a state of being introduced in.

  For this reason, in the first embodiment, the tube member 9 is smoothly introduced into the subject 13 by using the filamentary member 8 partially introduced into the subject 13 as a guide. Specifically, in the first embodiment, after the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13, the tube member 9 is moved along the threaded member 8 while maintaining a state where a part of the threaded member 8 is inserted into the duct. And move in a direction approaching the capsule 1. Since a part of the filamentous member 8 has already been introduced into the subject 13, the tube member 9 can be smoothly introduced into the subject 13 by moving the tube member 9 along the filamentous member 8. Become.

  Next, the length adjustment of the thread-like member 8 will be described. Such adjustment is performed in a thread form between the capsule 1 and the end of the tube member 9 on the gripping part side so that the thread member 8 is not exposed inside the subject 13 when the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted thereafter. This is for adjusting the length of the member 8.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing how the length of the thread-like member 8 is adjusted. After the introduction of the capsule 1 into the subject 13 and the introduction of the tube member 9 into the subject 13 are completed, first, the thread-like member 8 is removed by removing the thread-like member 8 from the fixing parts 5a and 5b provided in the grasping part 5. In contrast, the gripper 5 is set in a freely movable state. And the length of the part located between the capsule 1 and the grip part side end part of the tube member 9 among the thread-like members 8 by moving the grip part 5 in the direction approaching the capsule 1 while maintaining this state. The length of the thread-like member 8 in this portion is made to coincide with the length of the tube member 9 through which the thread-like member 8 is inserted.

  When the length of the portion located between the capsule 1 and the grip portion side end of the tube member 9 in the thread-like member 8 matches the length of the tube member 9, all the portions of the thread-like member 8 are covered with the tube member. 9 so that the thread-like member 8 is prevented from being exposed on the surface of the position adjusting member 2 in the subject 13. However, in a state where the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13, it is impossible to visually compare the length of the predetermined portion of the thread-like member 8 with the length of the tube member 9. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the lengths are compared using the detection member 4, and when both the lengths coincide with each other, the filamentary member 8 is exposed on the surface of the position adjustment member 2 in the subject 13. Therefore, it is determined that the operation has not been performed, and the process proceeds to the position adjustment operation.

When both lengths coincide with each other, an end of the tube member 9 on the capsule 1 side comes into contact with the conical member 3 so that the tube member 9 is given a pressing force in a direction away from the capsule 1. Become. Since the tube member 9 is composed of a member having a predetermined strength that is difficult to buckle, the pressing force from the conical member 3 is transmitted to the grip portion side end portion of the tube member 9 and contacts the grip portion side end portion. A predetermined pressing force is applied to the detected member 4. As described above, since the detection member 4 is formed by an elastic member such as a spring, the length in the pressing force application direction contracts with the pressing force, and the tube member 9 and the cone shape correspond to the change in the length. The presence / absence of a pressing force applied due to contact with the member 3, that is, the presence / absence of the exposure of the filamentary member 8 in the subject 13 is detected, and the detection result is indicated by the length. Specifically, the user, when the length l of the detection member 4 is equal to or less than a predetermined length l ₀ a predetermined capsule 1 end of the tube member 9 is in contact with the cone-shaped member 3, the It is determined that the portion where the thread-like member 8 is exposed in the specimen 13 is eliminated, and the thread-like member 8 is fixed again using the fixing portions 5a and 5b. By performing such a process, the thread-like member 8 is completely covered with the tube member 9 inside the subject 13, and by adjusting the position in this state, the thread-like member 8 and the body inside the subject 13 are covered. Direct contact with the tissue will be avoided.

  Next, the position adjustment of the capsule 1 will be described. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the case where the capsule 1 is taken out of the subject 13 as an example of position adjustment of the capsule 1. By passing through the length adjustment of the filamentous member 8 described above, the filamentous member 8 is completely covered by the tube member 9 in the subject 13. Therefore, in the subject 13, as shown in FIG. 6, the outer surface of the in-subject introduction apparatus is composed only of the capsule 1, the conical member 3, and the tube member 9, and only these components are covered. It can come into contact with the body tissue of the specimen 13.

  As is clear from the description of the length adjustment of the thread-like member 8 described above, the tube member 9 is in a state in which one end is in contact with the cone-like member 3 by adjusting the length of the thread-like member 8, and the capsule 1 With the thread-like member 8 having one end fixed thereto, the position adjusting member 2 operates integrally. Since the other end of the thread-like member 8 constituting the position adjusting member 2 is fixed to the gripping part 5 by the fixing parts 5a and 5b, the position adjusting member 2 is connected to the capsule 1 ( Further, the cone-shaped member 3) can be pulled, and the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted by this action.

  As an example of position adjustment, a case where the capsule 1 is taken out of the subject 13 will be described with reference to FIG. Since the capsule 1 is introduced into the esophagus or deeper for function execution by the function execution unit 7, the position adjusting member 2 is curved near the boundary between the oral cavity and the esophagus as shown in FIG. In contact with the body tissue of the subject 13 at or around the curved portion. In the position adjusting member 2, the thread member 8 is entirely covered with the tube member 9 inside the subject 13 by adjusting the length of the thread member 8 described above, and the outer diameter of the tube member 9 is the outer diameter of the thread member 8. Is formed to have a larger value. Therefore, the contact area between the position adjusting member 2 (more precisely, the tube member 9 constituting the position adjusting member 2) and the body tissue is a large value compared to the case where the thread-like member 8 contacts the body tissue.

  Thereafter, as the capsule 1 is pulled out, the member that comes into contact with the body tissue of the subject 13 changes from the position adjustment member 2 to the conical member 3. Since the outer diameter of the cone-shaped member 3 at the portion in contact with the position adjusting member 2 is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the position adjusting member 2, the contact area with the body tissue when the contact member changes is the position adjusting member 2. It is almost the same value as when touching. Thereafter, the members that come into contact with the body tissue are changed to the cone-shaped member 3 and the capsule 1, but since the cone-shaped member 3 is formed in a cone shape, the contact area with the body tissue does not change abruptly. Further, since the conical member 3 is formed to have an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the capsule 1 at the contact portion with the capsule 1, the member that contacts the body tissue changes from the conical member 3 to the capsule 1. In this case, the contact area is maintained at substantially the same value. From the above, when contacting the body tissue from the end of the position adjusting member 2 to the conical member 3 and the capsule 1, the value of the contact area gradually increases and a sudden change in the contact area occurs. The capsule 1 is taken out of the subject 13 without the occurrence of.

  Next, advantages of the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment will be described. First, the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment has an advantage that the burden on the subject 13 can be reduced when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13 and when the position is adjusted after the introduction.

  As described above, considering only the time when the capsule 1 is introduced, the position adjusting member is preferably formed so as to have a small volume. A general intra-subject introduction device is introduced into the subject via the oral cavity, and the smaller the volume of the whole intra-subject introduction device, the more the subject (patient) feels a foreign body. This is because it is possible to swallow without any problems. Since the position adjusting member is formed by a linear member extended by a predetermined length, reducing the volume is almost synonymous with reducing the outer diameter, and from the viewpoint of reducing the burden at the time of introduction. In general, a position adjusting member having a reduced diameter is used.

  However, such a configuration causes inconvenience when adjusting the position of the capsule after introduction. That is, when the thread-like position adjustment member comes into contact with the body tissue of the subject during position adjustment, the pressure due to the tension applied to the position adjustment member concentrates on the contact portion with the body tissue, and the subject Will feel a strong sense of incongruity as the position is adjusted.

  In contrast, in the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment, the position adjustment member 2 adjusts the position of the capsule 1 rather than the contact area with the body tissue when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13. The contact area when performing is increased. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the sense of incongruity felt by the subject when adjusting the position of the capsule 1 while avoiding giving the subject a foreign object sensation when the capsule 1 is introduced. That is, the uncomfortable feeling that occurs during the position adjustment is caused by the pressing force caused by the tension generated in the position adjusting member 2, and the uncomfortable feeling can be reduced or eliminated by reducing the value of the pressing force. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the position adjusting member 2 is formed so as to increase the contact area with the body tissue at the time of position adjustment, so that the pressing force distributed per unit area of the body tissue is distributed. By reducing it, it is possible to reduce or eliminate a sense of incongruity.

  In addition, the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment is configured so that the position adjustment member 2 has a structure in which the contact area with the body tissue is changed between the introduction of the capsule 1 and the position adjustment. The structure has a thread-like member 8 and a tube member 9. When the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject 13, the outer surface of the position adjusting member 2 is formed by the thread-like member 8, and when the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted, the outer member is positioned by the tube member 9 having a larger outer diameter. By forming the outer surface of the adjustment member 2, it is possible to realize a change in the contact area of the position adjustment member 2 with the body tissue with a simple structure. That is, the thread-like member 8 can be formed of, for example, cotton thread, and the tube member 9 can be easily realized by diverting an existing tube, and the function in the first embodiment is realized. Therefore, there is an advantage that it is not necessary to create a special mechanism.

  In the first embodiment, the tube member 9 is separately introduced after the capsule 1 (and a part of the thread-like member 8) is introduced into the subject 13 as described above. Since the tube member 9 adopts a structure in which the thread member 8 is introduced into the subject 13 while taking the thread member 8 into the formed conduit, the thread member 8 functions as a guide when the tube member 9 is introduced. Thus, the tube member 9 can be smoothly introduced into the subject 13. For this reason, the provision of the tube member 9 suppresses the subject 13 from newly feeling uncomfortable, and the burden on the subject 13 (patient) can be reduced from this viewpoint.

  In addition, the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment is provided with the conical member 3 so as to reduce or eliminate the discontinuity between the outer surface of the capsule 1 and the outer surface of the position adjusting member 2. When the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted, it is avoided that the subject 13 feels uncomfortable when the boundary between the capsule 1 and the position adjusting member 2 and its periphery come into contact with the body tissue. That is, when the contact area with the foreign substance in the body tissue of the subject 13 changes discontinuously, a strong sense of incongruity is felt, but in the first embodiment, the contact area is provided by disposing the conical member 3. Since this change becomes continuous, it is possible to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of such discomfort.

  Furthermore, in the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the first embodiment, by using the detection member 4, it is determined whether or not the thread-like member 8 is exposed on the outer surface of the position adjustment member 2 in the subject 13. The user can easily recognize it. For this reason, the in-subject introduction device according to the first embodiment can prevent the thread-like member 8 from coming into contact with the body tissue of the subject 13 when the position of the capsule 1 is adjusted. This has the advantage that the specimen 13 can be more reliably suppressed from feeling uncomfortable.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, the intra-subject introduction device according to the second embodiment will be described. The in-subject introduction apparatus according to the second embodiment adjusts the length of the thread-like member so that the thread-like member is not exposed on the surface inside the subject when the position of the capsule introduced into the subject is adjusted. A new mechanism is provided.

  FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of the intra-subject introduction device according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 7 and subsequent figures, components having the same reference numerals and names as those of the first embodiment have the same structures and functions as those of the first embodiment unless otherwise specified.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the second embodiment includes the capsule 1, the position adjustment member 2, the conical member 3, and the detection member 4 as in the first embodiment. The grip part 15 having a configuration different from that of the grip part 5 in the first embodiment is newly provided. Note that, from the viewpoint of facilitating understanding, in FIG. 7, the gripping portion 15 is illustrated in a state in which the internal structure is clarified.

  In addition to the purpose of gripping the user during the operation, the gripping part 15 responds to the detection operation of the detection member 4 when adjusting the length of the thread-like member 8, and part of the thread-like member 8 with respect to itself. Has the function of fixing. Specifically, the grip 15 is used when the length adjustment unit 17 that adjusts the length of the thread member 8 and the detection member 4 indicate that the thread member 8 is not exposed in the subject. It has a structure in which the operation of the length adjusting portion 17 is stopped and a fixing portion 18 for fixing the length of the thread-like member 8 is arranged with respect to a predetermined case 16.

  The length adjusting unit 17 is disposed in the case 16, can rotate about a predetermined axis, and performs a winding operation and a discharging operation of the thread-like member 8 in accordance with the rotation operation, and a pulley 19 on the outer surface of the case 16. And a rotation knob 20 formed to rotate integrally with the pulley 19. When the length adjusting unit 17 has such a configuration, the user rotates the pulley 19 by rotating the rotary knob 20 clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the length of the thread-like member 8. Is possible.

  The fixing portion 18 functions as an example of a fixing means in the claims, and has a function of fixing the length of the thread-like member 8 by stopping the rotation operation of the rotary knob 20 under a predetermined condition. . Specifically, the fixing portion 18 is in contact with the rotary knob under a predetermined condition and stops the rotation operation of the rotary knob 20, a locking member 22 for fixing the knob stop member 21, and When the spring member 23 and the knob stop member 21 are fixed, a protrusion accommodating portion 24 that is a gap portion for accommodating a protrusion 21a (described later) formed on the knob stop member 21 and a tooth groove 25a are formed on the outer periphery. And a ratchet wheel 25 (not shown in FIG. 7) that can rotate integrally with the pulley 19.

The knob stop member 21 has a structure that moves according to the length of the detection member 4 and also has a function of stopping the operation of the rotary knob 20 when the length of the detection member 4 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined l _0. Have. Specifically, the knob stop member 21 has a cylindrical shape that is slidable with respect to the conduit formed in the case 16, and the end portion on the side separated from the rotary knob 20 is the end of the detection member 4. It has a structure in which a sword tip 21b for fitting with the tooth gap 25a is formed at an end portion on the side close to the rotary knob 20. With this structure, when the length of the detection member 4 contracts according to the pressing force from the tube member 9, the knob stop member 21 moves in the direction close to the rotary knob 20 and is formed at the tip. The sword tip 21b is fitted into the tooth gap 25a and the operation of the rotary knob 20 is stopped. Further, the knob stop member 21 is formed with a protrusion 21 a having an inclined surface inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the sliding direction on the side where the locking member 22 is disposed. Thus, when the protruding portion 21a is positioned in the protruding portion receiving portion 24, the knob stop member 21 is fixed by the locking member 22, and the above-described fitting state is maintained.

  The locking member 22 and the spring member 23 are for fixing the knob stop member 21 when the detection member 4 contracts to a predetermined length. Specifically, the locking member 22 is arranged in a state slidable in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the knob stop member 21 and is biased by the spring member 23 in a direction close to the knob stop member 21. Has a structured. And the inclined surface is formed in the front-end | tip of the latching member 22 so that the inclined surface in the projection part 21a formed in the knob stop member 21 may be contacted.

  Next, of the operations of the intra-subject introduction device according to the second embodiment, the fixing operation of the thread-like member 8 that is characteristic of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are schematic views for explaining the fixing operation of the thread-like member 8. As described in the first embodiment, by adjusting the length of the thread-like member 8 after the tube member 9 is introduced into the subject, the end portion on the capsule 1 side of the tube member 9 comes into contact with the conical member 3. The pressing force applied from the conical member 3 is transmitted through the tube member 9 and contracts the length of the detection member 4. And since the edge part of the knob stop member 21 in the side spaced apart from the rotation knob 20 is formed so that it may operate | move integrally with the edge part of the detection member 4 as mentioned above, the detection member 4 is compressed. As a result, the knob stop member 21 also moves in the direction approaching the pulley 19.

  Along with the movement of the knob stop member 21, the projection 21a formed on the knob stop member 21 also moves, and with this movement, the locking member 22 moves away from the knob stop member 21 (downward direction in FIG. 8). ) For this reason, when moving in the direction close to the pulley 19, the locking member 22 does not hinder the movement of the knob stop member 21.

Thereafter, the knob stop member 21 further moves in the direction closer to the pulley 19, and when the length of the detection member 4 becomes l (≦ l ₀ ), as shown in FIG. The sword tip 21b formed on the tooth is fitted into the tooth gap 25a. As described above, the tooth groove 25a is formed on the ratchet wheel 25 formed so as to rotate integrally with the pulley 19, and the ratchet wheel 25 rotates when the sword tip 21b is fitted into the tooth groove 25a. The pulley 19 that is in an incapable state and rotates integrally with the ratchet wheel 25 is also unable to rotate.

  Further, when the length of the detection member 4 becomes 1, the protrusion 21a formed on the knob stop member 21 moves to the side closer to the pulley 19 with respect to the locking member 22, Has moved into the protrusion accommodating portion 24. Therefore, the locking member 22 is released from the pressing force of the protrusion 21a, and moves in a direction (upward direction in FIG. 8) close to the knob stop member 21 by the elastic force of the spring member 23, and the protrusion 21a and the locking member 8, the surfaces perpendicular to the sliding direction of the knob stop member 21 are in contact with each other, and the force acting between them is the sliding direction of the knob stop member 21. For this reason, the locking member 22 does not move in the direction perpendicular to the knob stop member 21 by the action of the protrusion 21a, and the protrusion 21a is confined in the protrusion accommodating portion 24. Thus, the protrusion 21a is fixed in a state of being accommodated in the protrusion accommodating portion 24. By fixing the knob stop member 21 in such a state, the rotary knob 20 is maintained in a non-rotatable state, and the length of the thread-like member is fixed without change thereafter.

Next, advantages of the in-subject introduction device according to the second embodiment will be described. In addition to the advantages described in the first embodiment, the in-subject introduction apparatus according to the second embodiment can automatically fix the thread-like member 8. That is, in the second embodiment, the length of the detection member 4 knob stop member 21 corresponds to equal to or less than a predetermined length l ₀ stops the rotation of the pulley 19 as described above, and the locking member The knob stop member 21 is fixed at a position where the rotation of the pulley 19 is stopped by the action of 22 or the like. Therefore, the user does not need to perform the fixing operation of the thread-like member 8 according to the detection result indicated by the length of the detection member 4, and can easily fix the thread-like member 8.

  As described above, the present invention has been described over the first and second embodiments. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the first and second embodiments described above. It is possible to conceive variations and the like. For example, as the structure of the conical member 3, a structure other than the structure in which the small pieces 12 including the dish-shaped protrusions 11 are stacked may be used.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modification of the conical member. As shown in FIG. 10, the conical member 26 is integrally formed by a member having a conical shape. For example, flexibility is realized by using polyurethane as a material. In this way, it is also effective to form the conical member by a single member. By forming the conical member using a flexible material such as polyurethane, a conical member that can easily follow deformation of the thread-like member 8 or the like can be obtained. Can be realized.

  Further, in the second embodiment, regarding the fixing portion 18 that performs the fixing operation of the thread-like member 8, the fixing action of the thread-like member 8 is performed by each member acting mechanically based on the change in the length of the detection member 4. did. However, instead of such mechanical action, for example, the fixing operation of the thread-like member 8 may be performed using an electronic control mechanism.

  FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram illustrating functional blocks of the fixing unit 27 that performs a fixing operation based on electronic control. As shown in FIG. 11, the fixing unit 27 includes a measurement unit 28 that measures the length of the detection member 4, and the filamentary member 8 on the outer surface of the position adjustment member 2 in the subject based on the measurement result of the measurement unit 28. The determination part 29 which determines whether it was exposed, the control part 30 which controls the drive state of the length adjustment part 17 based on a determination result, and the display part 31 which displays the measurement result of the measurement part 28 are provided. The function of the fixed portion can be realized by adopting such a configuration that is electronically controlled. The reason why the display unit 31 is provided is that the length of the detection member 4 is expressed in the form of numerical data by the measuring unit 28. Therefore, the numerical data is displayed visually for the convenience of the user. This is for the purpose of illustration. Moreover, regarding the drive state control by the control unit 30, it is possible to provide only the function of stopping the operation of the length adjusting unit 17 as in the case of the fixed unit 18, but once the operation is stopped, the length is again set. It is also preferable to provide a function as a stop release unit that controls the adjustment unit 17 to be operable. Further, the detection member 4 may be formed using a structure other than an elastic member such as a spring, for example, a pressure sensor, and the length adjustment unit 17 is also replaced with the rotary knob 20 operated by the user. A motor or the like that rotates the pulley 19 may be provided.

  Further, the position adjusting member is not limited to the configuration formed by the thread-like member 8 and the tube member 9 as shown in the first and second embodiments. For example, when the capsule 1 is introduced into the subject by forming the position adjusting member using a material that expands by reacting with a body fluid, the outer diameter is equal to that of the thread-like member 8. The shape may be changed so that the outer diameter becomes equal to that of the tube member 9 when a predetermined time elapses after the capsule 1 is introduced.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an intra-subject introduction device according to a first embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows in detail the structure of a capsule vicinity part among in-subject introduction apparatuses. It is a schematic diagram which shows the state at the time of introduce | transducing a capsule in a subject. It is a schematic diagram which shows the state at the time of introducing a tube member after capsule introduction. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the length adjustment of the thread-like member performed after a tube member introduction. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating about the position adjustment of a capsule. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an intra-subject introduction device according to a second embodiment. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the fixing operation of a thread-like member. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the fixing operation of a thread-like member. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of a cone-shaped part. It is a typical block diagram which shows the modification of a fixing | fixed part. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the conventional capsule type | mold endoscope.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Capsule 1a Storage part 2 Position adjustment member 3 Conical member 4 Detection member 5 Gripping part 5a, 5b Fixing part 7 Function execution part 8 Threaded member 9 Tube member 10a-10n Spacer 11a-11n Protrusion part 12a-12n Small piece 13 Subject DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 15 Grip part 16 Case 17 Length adjustment part 18 Fixing part 19 Pulley 20 Rotation knob 21 Knob stop member 21a Protrusion part 22 Locking member 23 Spring member 24 Protrusion accommodating part 26 Conical member 27 Fixing part 28 Measurement part 29 Determination part 30 Control unit 31 Display unit 101 Capsule 102 String member 103 Gripping unit

Claims (7)

A function execution means for executing a predetermined function is incorporated, and a capsule is introduced into the subject via the oral cavity, and a part of the capsule is connected to the capsule and introduced into the subject. An in-subject introduction apparatus comprising a position adjustment member that remains outside the subject and adjusts the position of the capsule by being at least partially pulled;
It said position adjusting member,
Than the contact area with the body tissue of the subject at the time of introducing the capsule into the subject, it is formed such that the area of contact between the body tissue of the subject at the time of adjusting the position of the capsule is increased And
A thread-like member that is partially fixed to the capsule and forms the outer surface of the position adjusting member inside the subject when the capsule is introduced into the subject;
A conduit having an outer diameter larger than that of the thread-like member and passing through the thread-like member is formed, and the state where the thread-like member is inserted into the duct after the capsule is introduced into the subject is maintained. A tube member that is introduced into the subject and forms an outer surface of the position adjusting member inside the subject when the position is adjusted;
Have
A detection means for detecting whether or not the filamentary member is exposed on the outer surface of the position adjusting member in the subject at the end of the tube member on the side remote from the capsule. Intrasample introduction device. The cone-shaped member which relieves discontinuity between the outer surface of the capsule and the outer surface of the position adjusting member is further provided in the vicinity of a connection portion between the capsule and the position adjusting member. Item 2. The intra-subject introduction device according to Item 1 . The conical member has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the position adjusting member at the end on the position adjusting member side, and the outer diameter continuously increases as the position approaches the capsule. The in-subject introduction apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the end portion of the capsule is formed to have an outer diameter substantially equal to an outer diameter at a contact portion of the capsule with the conical member. The conical member is formed in a portion connected to the position adjusting member, has a shape that can be inserted into a pipe formed in the tube member over a predetermined length, and when inserted into the pipe the body-insertable apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a connection reinforcing portion to reinforce the connection portion between the Kirijo member and the tube member. The detection means detects whether or not the thread-like member is exposed on the outer surface of the position adjusting member in the subject based on a pressing force from the end of the tube member on the side away from the capsule. the body-insertable apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the arc. The detection means includes an elastic member whose length changes according to the pressing force from the end of the tube member on the side separated from the capsule, and based on the length of the elastic member in the pressing force application direction. 6. The intra-subject introduction apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein a detection operation is performed. When the detection means indicates that the thread-like member is not exposed, the thread-like member between the end of the tube member and the capsule on the side away from the capsule is maintained to maintain this state. The in-subject introduction device according to claim 5 or 6 , further comprising a fixing means for fixing the length.

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