JP2001079007A - Optical probe device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To minimize the tip end clearance, set and keep the distal end clearance at a proper location, and stably keep the rotating axis of the outgoing/ incoming section of a low interference light. SOLUTION: At the distal end on the internal surface of an optical sheath 38, a metal sphere 61 is partially embedded, and the contact point 62 of the metal sphere 61 comes into point-contact with the tip end surface 63 of a tip end housing 52. That is, since the section of the metal sphere 61, which is exposed from the tip end of the internal surface of the optical sheath 38, comes into contact with the distal end smooth surface of the housing 52 by a point, the frictional resistance of the housing 52 is small, and the housing 52 rotates with a line connecting the point contact point with the metal sphere 61 and the central point as an axis. thus, the clearance between the distal end of the housing 52 and the distal end of the internal surface of the optical sheath 38 can be minimized.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an optical probe apparatus for irradiating a subject with low-coherence light and constructing a tomographic image of the subject from information on light scattered on the subject.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, when diagnosing a living tissue, as an apparatus capable of obtaining optical information inside the tissue, an interference type OC which obtains a tomographic image of a subject using low-coherence light is known.
T (optical coherence tomography) is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent Publication No. 6-51112.

[0003] In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 6-511213, a light having a rotating tube provided with an optical fiber and a tip unit serving as a light emitting / receiving part is provided inside an outer tubular sheath for insertion into a body cavity. A probe device (hereinafter simply referred to as an optical probe or a probe) is disclosed.

[0004]

However, in the conventional optical probe, a tip clearance (gap) between the tip inner surface of the tubular sheath and the tip surface of the tip unit is provided.
If the diameter is large, the operability of the operator becomes poor during observation, and if the tip clearance is small, the rotation performance is reduced due to the abutment between the sheath tip and the internal rotating body, resulting in an appropriate OCT.
There are drawbacks such as an image cannot be obtained.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and it is possible to minimize the tip clearance, set and maintain the tip clearance at an appropriate position, and stably rotate the rotation axis of the emission / incidence part of the low interference light. It is an object of the present invention to provide an optical probe device which can be held in a light source.

[0006]

An optical probe device according to the present invention is an optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image using low-coherence light. Emission of the low interference light provided
An entrance section, a housing for holding the exit / incidence section of the low interference light, a flexible shaft connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end, an inner surface of the sheath distal end and the housing distal end And a friction preventing means provided between the first and second members for preventing friction during rotation of the housing.

In the optical probe device of the present invention, the friction preventing means is provided between the inner surface of the distal end of the sheath and the distal end of the housing to prevent friction at the time of rotation of the housing, thereby minimizing the distal clearance. The clearance can be set and held at an appropriate position, and the rotation axis of the emission / incidence portion of the low interference light can be stably held.

[0008]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. (First Embodiment) FIGS. 1 to 4 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an entire configuration of an optical imaging apparatus having an optical probe device, and FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an endoscope into which the optical probe device is inserted, FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of the optical probe device of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the optical probe device of FIG. It is.

An optical imaging apparatus (optical tomographic imaging apparatus) 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a low-coherence light source 2 such as an ultra-bright light emitting diode (hereinafter abbreviated as SLD) in an observation apparatus 27. The low coherence light source 2 has a wavelength of, for example, 130
It has the characteristic of low coherence light that exhibits coherence only in a short distance range of 0 nm and a coherence length of, for example, about 17 μm.

That is, if this light is split into two light beams and then mixed again, if the difference between the two optical path lengths from the split point to the mixed point is within a short distance range of about 17 μm, interference occurs. When the light path length is longer than the detected light, the light does not interfere.

The light of the low coherence light source 2 is incident on one end of the first single mode fiber 3 and transmitted to the other end surface (tip surface). The first single mode fiber 3 is optically imaged with the second single mode fiber 5 by an optical coupler section 4 on the way. Accordingly, the light is split into two and transmitted by the optical coupler unit 4.

An optical rotary joint 6 for transmitting and transmitting light between the non-rotating portion and the rotating portion is interposed at the distal end side of the first single mode fiber 3 (from the optical coupler portion 4). The connector portion 9 of the optical probe device 8A of the first embodiment (hereinafter abbreviated as an optical probe) is detachably connected to the distal end of the third single mode fiber 7 in the rotary joint 6, and this optical probe 8A 4th single mode fiber 1 which is inserted through
Light of the low coherence light source 2 is transmitted (light guided) to zero.

The transmitted light is transmitted to the optical probe 8A.
Irradiation is performed while being scanned from the distal end side to the living tissue 11 side as the subject. In addition, a part of the reflected light scattered on the surface or inside of the living tissue 11 is taken in, returned to the first single mode fiber 3 through an opposite optical path, and partly reflected by the optical coupler unit 4. The light moves to the second single mode fiber 5 side, and is incident from one end of the second single mode fiber 5 to, for example, a photodiode 12 as a photodetector. Note that the rotor side of the optical rotary joint 6 is driven to rotate by the rotation drive device 13.

An optical path length variable mechanism 14 for changing the optical path length of the reference light is provided on the second single mode fiber 5 at a position closer to the distal end than the optical coupler section 4. The variable optical path length mechanism 14 is a first optical path length that changes at a high speed by the optical path length in the scanning range corresponding to the optical path length that scans by a predetermined scanning range in the depth direction of the living tissue 11 by the optical scanning probe 8. A second means capable of changing the optical path length of the variation of the length of the individual optical probe 8A so as to absorb the variation of the length of the individual optical probe 8A when the optical probe 8A is used after being changed and used.
Means for changing the optical path length.

A grating 16 is arranged via a collimating lens 30 which is mounted on the uniaxial stage 18 together with the tip of the second single mode fiber 5 so as to face the tip of the second single mode fiber 5 and is movable in the direction shown by the arrow a. . The galvanometer 1 can be rotated by a minute angle through a lens 17 corresponding to the grating (diffraction grating) 16.
9 is attached as a first optical path length changing means,
The galvanometer mirror 19 is rotationally vibrated at a high speed by the galvanometer controller 20 as shown by a symbol b.

The galvanometer mirror 19 reflects light from a mirror of the galvanometer. The galvanometer mirror 19 applies an AC drive signal to the galvanometer and vibrates the mirror attached to the movable part at high speed.

That is, a drive signal is applied by the galvanometer controller 20 so that the optical probe 8A can scan at a predetermined distance in the depth direction of the living tissue 11 at a high speed. Vibrates rotationally.

The optical path length of the light emitted from the end face of the second single mode fiber 5 by this rotational vibration, reflected by the galvanometer mirror 19, and returned by a predetermined distance for scanning the living tissue 11 in the depth direction. It changes only by the scanning range.

That is, the galvanometer mirror 19 forms first optical path length changing means for obtaining a tomographic image in the depth direction. The means for changing the optical path length by the galvanometer mirror 19 is described in SCIENCE VOL. 27
6, 1997, pp2037-2039.

The second single mode fiber 5 and the collimating lens 30 are provided on a uniaxial stage 18 which is movable in the direction of the optical axis as indicated by a symbol a.
This serves as a second optical path length changing means.

The second single-mode fiber 5 has a polarization adjusting fiber loop for removing the influence of birefringence caused by bending of the fiber in the entire optical system and the optical probe 8A. 29 are provided.

On the other hand, the one-axis stage 18 is an optical probe 8A
Is replaced with a second optical path having a variable range of the optical path length that can absorb variations in the optical path length of the optical probe 8A.
And a desired position for obtaining an image in the depth direction through the optical path length by the galvanometer mirror 19 (for example, the tip of the optical probe 8A is closely attached to the surface of the biological tissue). Even if not performed, by changing the optical path length by the one-axis stage 18, by setting the state to interfere with the surface position of the living tissue 11, the offset is set so that the image can be formed from the surface position). It also has a function of adjusting means for adjusting.

The one-axis stage 18 is provided with a motor for moving the stage, and the position control device 21 applies a drive signal to the motor, so that the one-axis stage 18
Move in the direction indicated by.

The light whose optical path length has been changed by the optical path length variable mechanism 14 is mixed with light leaked from the first single mode fiber 3 side by a coupler section 4 provided in the middle of the second single mode fiber 5. And the photodiode 12 together
Is received at.

For example, when the single-axis stage 18 is set near the middle position of its variable range, the second single-mode fiber 5 passes through the optical coupler unit 4 through the fourth single-mode fiber 9 and the like to the optical probe 8A. The optical path length from the tip to the living tissue 11 is set to be substantially equal to the optical path length reflected by the galvanometer mirror 19 on the one-axis stage 18 via the second single mode fiber 5.

The length of each optical probe 8A (the fourth single-mode fiber 10 in it) is variably set according to the optical probe 8A actually connected and used. Absorb the variation of the
In addition, the galvanometer mirror 19 is rotated or vibrated at high speed to periodically change the optical path length on the reference light side, and thereby the reflected light at the depth position of the living tissue 11 having a value equal to this optical path length. And light reflected at other depths can be made non-interfering.

The signal photoelectrically converted by the photodiode 12 is amplified by an amplifier 22 and then input to a demodulator 23. The demodulator 23 performs demodulation processing for extracting only the signal portion of the interfering light, and the output is input to the computer 25 via the A / D converter 24. The computer 25 generates image data corresponding to the tomographic image, outputs the image data to the monitor 26, and displays the OCT image 26a on the display surface.
Is displayed.

The computer 25 is provided with the position control device 21
The computer 25 controls the position of the one-axis stage 18 via the position control device 2. Further, the computer 25 is connected to the video synchronization circuit 28, and stores tomographic image data in an internal memory in synchronization with a video synchronization signal at the time of image formation.

The video synchronizing signal of the video synchronizing circuit 28 is also sent to the galvanometer controller 20 and the rotation drive device 13, respectively. For example, the galvanometer controller 20 controls the video synchronizing signal (more specifically, two video signals of high speed and low speed). The drive signal is output at a cycle synchronized with the high-speed first video synchronization signal in the synchronization signal, and the rotation drive unit 13 outputs a cycle synchronized with the video synchronization signal (more specifically, the low-speed second video synchronization signal). Outputs a drive signal synchronized with the first video synchronization signal, and scans light in the circumferential direction by the rotation of the rotary drive device 13.

As shown in FIG. 2, the optical probe 8A of the first embodiment passes through the forceps insertion port 32 of the endoscope 31, passes through the forceps insertion channel, and opens from the distal end opening of the optical probe 8A.
The tip side of A can be made to protrude.

The endoscope 31 has an elongated and flexible insertion portion 33 so as to be easily inserted into a body cavity, and a wide-width operation portion 34 is provided at a rear end of the insertion portion 33. This insertion part 3
A forceps insertion port 32 is provided in the vicinity of the rear end of 3, and the forceps insertion port 32 communicates with a forceps insertion channel inside the forceps insertion port 32.

A light guide (not shown) is inserted into the insertion portion 33, and the incident end of the light guide is connected to a light source device, and the illumination light is transmitted and emitted from an illumination window provided at the distal end of the insertion portion 33. Illuminate the affected area. An observation window is provided adjacent to the illumination window, and an objective optical system is attached to the observation window so that the illuminated diseased part or the like can be observed by the optical system. Then, under the observation of the observation optical system at the distal end portion of the endoscope 31, the living tissue 1 of the portion of interest, such as an affected part, is observed.
One side is irradiated with low coherence light by the optical probe 8A to obtain tomographic image data inside the living tissue 11 so that the OCT image 26a can be displayed on the display surface of the monitor 26.

The distal end of the insertion portion 33 has a curved portion 35.
And (endoscope) tip 36. When the optical probe 8A is inserted through the curved portion 35, or when the distal end 37 of the optical probe 8A is made to protrude from the endoscope distal end portion 36 and comes into contact with the living tissue 11, as shown in FIG. The part 36 is curved with a small radius of curvature.

As shown in FIG. 3, the optical probe 8A comprises an optical sheath 38 at least at the distal end of which is formed of a long and narrow transparent resin tube, and a base end side of the optical sheath 38 (which constitutes an observation device). A) a connector portion 9 connected to the rotation drive device 13 and an optical sheath 38 provided inside;
A flexible shaft 40 composed of a spirally wound coil 44 for freely rotating and transmitting a rotational force, a fourth single mode fiber 10 provided in a lumen of the flexible shaft 40, and a flexible shaft 40
A tip unit 39 serving as a light emission / incidence part connected to and held at the tip of the optical fiber, and connected to the rear end of a flexible shaft 40 having an optical connector (not shown) connected to the rear end of the fourth single mode fiber 10. And a rotation transmitting connector 42.

The distal end of the optical sheath 38 is closed in a watertight manner by a sealing portion, and the distal end unit 39 rotatably disposed on the distal end side of the optical sheath 38 contains the distal end of the fourth single mode fiber 10. And a prism 51 that reflects the collected light on an inclined surface and emits the light in a right angle direction, and these are the emission / incidence portions of the light from the prism 51. It is covered with a distal end housing 52 (attached to the distal end of the flexible shaft 40) having a window 46 (simply referred to as a housing).

The rotation transmitting connector 42 is rotatably and water-tightly held in the connector portion 9, and the connector portion 9 is also formed in a water-tight structure, so that the entire optical probe 8A has a water-tight structure.
By using the refractive index matching water for anti-reflection inside, the refractive index of the prism 51 and the sheath of the optical unit 39 and the refractive index of the small air between them are large and the refractive index difference is large. It is possible to obtain a high quality OCT image by reducing the reflection at the interface between them (by making the refractive indices approximately the same with a refractive index matching water), and to obtain light (because of the watertight structure). The probe 8A is easily disinfected with a disinfecting solution or the like, and inserted into a body cavity (directly or through a channel of an endoscope) for use.

The connector 9 at the rear end of the optical probe 8A
The rotation driving device 13 to which the is detachably connected has the optical rotary joint 6 to which the rotation transmission connector 42 is connected. The rotation transmitting connector 42 is provided with the optical connector (not shown) connected to the rear end of the fourth single mode fiber 10. The optical connector and the optical rotary joint 6 are connected to the third single mode fiber 7. It is connected.

Then, the third single mode fiber 7
Is transmitted to the fourth single mode fiber 10 by the optical connector. In addition, the rotation driving device 1
3 is transmitted to the flexible shaft 40 by the rotation transmitting connector 42.

The transmission light of the fourth single mode fiber 10 is transmitted to the tip unit 39, and the tip unit 3
The light is totally reflected by the nine prisms 51 on the inclined surface, the emission direction is changed to the right angle direction, and at least the outer peripheral surface at the distal end is emitted to the outside as the inspection light through the transparent optical sheath 38 through the window 46. Then, the reflected light from the living tissue is received and transmitted to the fourth single mode fiber 10 again. The tip of the flexible shaft 40 is the tip unit 3
9, the flexible shaft 40,
Tip unit 39, fourth single mode fiber 10
Rotates together.

As shown in FIG. 4, a metal ball 61 is partially embedded at the inner surface tip of the optical sheath 38 of this embodiment, and the contact point 62 of the metal ball 61 is
Is in point contact with the tip surface 63.

That is, since the portion of the metal ball 61 exposed from the inner surface tip of the optical sheath 38 is in point contact with the smooth surface of the tip of the housing 52, the frictional resistance of the housing 52 is small, and the point of contact with the metal ball 61 at the point of contact. It rotates around the line connecting the center and. Therefore, the clearance between the front end of the housing 52 and the front end of the inner surface of the optical sheath 38 can be minimized while the rotation of the housing 52 is stabilized evenly.

Since the tip of the metal sphere 61 can be subjected to X-ray imaging, the optical sheath 38 can be obtained by X-ray photography.
It is possible to know the position of the tip accurately.

According to the present embodiment described above, the metal sphere 61 embedded at the inner surface tip of the optical sheath 38 is brought into point contact with the tip surface of the tip housing 52, so that the rotation of the housing 52 is stable and uniform. The appropriate OC
A T image is obtained, and a window portion 4 which is a light emission / incident portion.
6 can be brought close to the tip of the optical sheath 38 with a minimum clearance, so that the operability of the operator during observation is improved.

Although the housing 52 is exposed to X-rays, the portion of the optical sheath 38 beyond the housing 52 is not exposed to X-rays. The operability at the time of insertion into a fine luminal organ is improved.

(Second Embodiment) FIGS. 5 to 8 relate to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe, and FIG. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a first modification of the optical probe, FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a second modification of the optical probe of FIG. 5, and FIG. 8 is an optical probe of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the principal part of the 3rd modification.

Since this embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 5, in the optical probe 8 B of the present embodiment, a friction preventing member 65 is partially embedded in the distal end of the inner surface of the optical sheath 38. The curved surface exposed by the convex surface 66
It has become. Further, the distal end surface of the housing 52 is
7 is assumed.

The radius of curvature of the convex surface 66 of the friction preventing member 65 is smaller than the radius of curvature of the concave surface 67 at the front end surface of the housing 52. Therefore, together with the same operation as in the first embodiment, the fitting of the concave and convex surfaces constitutes a bearing, and the displacement of the housing 52 during rotation can be reduced. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

According to the embodiment described above, the first
In addition to the effects described in the above embodiments, since the rotation axis of the housing 52 is more stable, it is possible to reliably prevent the peripheral surface of the housing 52 from contacting the inner surface of the optical sheath 38, so that a more appropriate OCT image can be obtained. can get.

As a first modified example of the optical probe 8B, as shown in FIG. 6, a projection 68a of a sealing cap 68 for sealing the tip of an optical sheath 38 in a water-tight manner has a convex surface 66 of a friction preventing member 65. May be integrally formed, and the concave surface 67 of the distal end surface of the housing 52 may be formed as a convex surface 66 of the sealing cap 68.
The same operation and effect can be obtained by making a point contact with the.

As a second modified example of the optical probe 8B, as shown in FIG. 7, the optical sheath 38 of the friction prevention member 65 partially embedded at the tip of the inner surface of the optical sheath 38 is used.
The curved surface exposed in the inside is defined as a concave surface 69 and the housing 52
Is a convex surface 70, and the concave surface 69 of the friction preventing member 65
May be configured to be larger than the radius of curvature of the convex surface 70 of the front end surface of the housing 52. The concave surface 69 of the front end surface of the housing 52 may be
The same operation and effect can be obtained by making a point contact with the.

Further, as a third modification of the optical probe 8B, as shown in FIG. 8, a concave surface 69 of the friction preventing member 65 is integrally formed with a sealing cap 68 for sealing the tip of the optical sheath 38 in a watertight manner. The same operation and effect can be obtained by bringing the concave surface 69 of the distal end surface of the housing 52 into point contact with the convex surface 70 of the sealing cap 68.

(Third Embodiment) FIG. 9 shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the optical probe according to the embodiment.

Since this embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 9, in the optical probe 8C of this embodiment, an angular ball bearing 72 is provided on the inner surface side of the optical sheath 38 of the distal end cap 71 for sealing the distal end of the optical sheath 38 in a watertight manner. Is provided with a convex portion 73 on the distal end surface of the. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

According to such a configuration, the housing 52
Since the outer peripheral surface of the convex portion 73 of the front end surface of the angular ball bearing 72 is in point contact with each ball of the angular ball bearing 72 and is rotated, the friction is smaller, the rotation is stabilized, and the rotation unevenness is reduced. Is obtained.

According to the embodiment described above, the first
In addition to the effects described in the above embodiments, since the rotation axis of the housing 52 is more stable, it is possible to reliably prevent the peripheral surface of the housing 52 from contacting the inner surface of the optical sheath 38, so that a more appropriate OCT image can be obtained. can get.

(Fourth Embodiment) FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Since the present embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 10, in the optical probe 8D of the present embodiment, the front end of the optical sheath 38 is open, and a small diameter portion 75 having a narrow rear end side is formed in the housing 52. The outer surface 75a of the diameter portion 75 is
And is connected to the flexible shaft 4 by a bearing 76 fixed to the inner surface of the opening at the front end. In addition. Housing 52
The end surface 52 a formed with the small diameter portion 75 is in contact with the bearing 76.

The tip opening of the optical sheath 38 and the bearing 76
And the housing 52 are housed in a cylindrical enclosure 77 made of a watertight and transparent material. The distal end side of the enclosure 77 is sealed with a distal end cap 79 provided with a projection 78 at a portion inserted into the inner wall of the enclosure, and the projection 78 and the recess 80 provided at the tip of the housing 52 are in point contact. Let it do.

The enclosure 77 does not necessarily have to be made of a flexible material as long as it has good light transmission.
The material 8 does not necessarily need to be a material having good light transmittance as long as it is flexible. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

According to the present embodiment described above, the first
In addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, the small-diameter portion 75 of the housing 52 is supported by the bearing 76, and the rotation axis of the housing 52 is more stable. A more appropriate OCT image is obtained.

Further, it is possible to reliably prevent the peripheral surface of the housing 52 from contacting the inner surface of the optical sheath 38, and
7 can be prevented from scratching, so that the image does not deteriorate.

Further, a material can be selected in accordance with characteristics such as light transmittance and flexibility required at each portion of the enclosure 77 and the optical sheath 38.

Further, since the end face 52a of the housing 52 where the small diameter portion 75 is formed is in contact with the bearing 76, the housing 52 can be arranged at a desired position with high accuracy.

(Fifth Embodiment) FIGS. 11 to 17
11 relates to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe, FIG. 12 is a first explanatory diagram for explaining the operation of the optical probe of FIG. 11, and FIG. FIG.
FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a first modification of the optical probe of FIG. 11, and FIG. 15 is a second diagram of the optical probe of FIG. FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modification, FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a third modification of the optical probe of FIG. 11, and FIG. 17 is a fourth modification of the optical probe of FIG. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of FIG.

Since the present embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the optical probe 8E of the present embodiment, the optical probe 8E contacts the convex surface 81a of the distal end portion 81 provided on the distal end surface of the housing 52, and serves as a bearing for the convex surface 81a of the distal end portion 81 during rotation. Bearing 83 having concave surface 82
And an elastic body holding portion 84 embedded in the inner surface of the distal end of the optical sheath 38, and a spring 85 as an elastic body connecting the elastic body holding portion 84 and the bearing portion 83. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the convex surface 81 a of the tip portion 81 and the concave surface 8
Since the two are in contact with each other, it is possible to further reduce the shake during rotation.

The optical probe 8E is arranged such that the length L1 of the elastic body holding portion 84 and the housing 52 in the non-curved state shown in FIG. The distance L2 between the flexible shaft 40 and the optical sheath 38 in the longitudinal direction is generally L1 <L2 due to the difference in elasticity between the flexible shaft 40 and the optical sheath 38, and the housing 52 is slightly separated from the distal end of the optical sheath 38 in the longitudinal direction. However, even in such a case, the bearing portion 83 (the concave surface 82) is formed by the elasticity of the spring 85 so that
Because of contact with the convex surface 81a, the blurring during rotation can be reduced.

According to the present embodiment described above, the first
In addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, since the rotation axis of the housing 52 is more stable, the blur and rotation unevenness of the housing 52 are reduced, and a more appropriate OCT image can be obtained.

Even if the optical probe 8E is bent, the bearing 83 (the concave surface 82) is in contact with the convex surface 81 of the front end of the housing 52 due to the elasticity of the spring 85, so that the rotation axis can be maintained. Blur can be reduced, and an appropriate OCT image can be obtained.

As a first modified example of the optical probe 8E, as shown in FIG. 14, a configuration may be employed in which a spring 85 is held in a sealing cap 86 for sealing the tip of the optical sheath 38 in a watertight manner. The bearing portion 83 is formed by the elasticity of the spring 85.
By bringing the (concave surface 82) into point contact with the front end convex surface 81 of the housing 52, the same operation and effect can be obtained.

As a second modified example of the optical probe 8E, as shown in FIG. 15, a convex concave surface 87 is provided on the distal end surface of the housing 52, and the bearing portion 83 is brought into point contact with the concave concave surface 87 of the housing 52. 88 may be provided, and the elasticity of the spring 85 causes the bearing portion 83 (of the convex surface 8
The same operation and effect can be obtained by bringing 8) into point contact with the concave end surface 87 of the housing 52.

As a third modification of the optical probe 8E, as shown in FIG. 16, a spring 85 is held by a sealing cap 86 for sealing the tip of the optical sheath 38 in a watertight manner. Similarly to the above, the distal end surface of the housing 52 may be provided on the distal concave surface 87, and the bearing portion 83 may be provided with a convex surface 88 for making point contact with the distal concave surface 87 of the housing 52. Convex surface 88)
Is brought into point contact with the concave surface 87 of the front end of the housing 52, a similar operation and effect can be obtained.

As a fourth modified example of the optical probe 8E, as shown in FIG. 17, an angular ball bearing 89 is provided on the distal end surface of the housing 52, and a convex surface 90 is provided on the bearing portion 83. The outer peripheral surface may be configured to be in contact with each ball of the angular ball bearing 89, and the bearing portion 83 (the convex surface 9
The same operation and effect can be obtained by bringing the outer peripheral surface (0) into point contact with each ball of the angular ball bearing 88 of the housing 52.

(Sixth Embodiment) FIGS. 18 and 19 relate to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe, and FIG. It is a figure showing a modification of a bearing.

Since the present embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 18, the optical probe 8F of the present embodiment is configured such that bearings 95 are provided on both sides of the front end and the rear end of the housing 52 in an unfixed state. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, first, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the rotation of the housing 52 is smoothed by the bearing 95, and the rattling can be prevented. Also, the housing 52 and the optical sheath 38 are provided by the bearing 95.
And the inner surface of the optical sheath 38 can be prevented from being scratched or damaged.

The bearing 95 may have a shape as shown in FIG. 19. By adopting such a shape, it is possible to further prevent friction and to stabilize the shaft position.

(Seventh Embodiment) In the structure of the conventional optical probe, when the optical sheath 38 is filled with a liquid for refractive index matching or the like, if air bubbles adhere to the light exit / incident surface,
There is a drawback that it is difficult to remove and an appropriate OCT image cannot be obtained.

Next, a description will be given of an optical probe in which a liquid is filled in an optical sheath, which is capable of easily removing bubbles generated on a light emitting / incident surface at the tip and which can obtain an appropriate OCT image.

FIGS. 20 to 31 relate to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a view showing the structure of the main part of the optical probe, and FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the refractive index matching in the optical sheath of FIG. FIG. 22 is an explanatory view for explaining injection of a liquid for use in FIG.
FIG. 23 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of the bubble trap of FIG.
24 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a first modification of the bubble trap of FIG. 24, FIG. 24 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a second modification of the bubble trap of FIG. 20, and FIG. 25 is a third modification of the bubble trap of FIG. FIG. 26 is a configuration diagram illustrating an example configuration, FIG. 26 is a first explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the optical probe in FIG. 20, FIG. 27 is a second explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the optical probe in FIG. 20, and FIG. FIG. 29 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modification of the optical probe 20.
21 is a first diagram illustrating a modified example of the injection of the liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG. 21, and FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating the injection of the liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG. FIG. 31 is a second diagram illustrating a modified example, and FIG. 31 is a third diagram illustrating a modified example of injection of a liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG.

Since the present embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 20, in the optical probe 8G of the present embodiment, the liquid 100 for refractive index matching is filled in the optical sheath 38, and the flexible shaft 40
A bubble trap 101 made of stainless steel is provided on the outer periphery as a bubble passage restricting means. The bubble trap fixing point is, for example, a point about 5 mm away from the end of the housing 52 on the flexible shaft 40 side, and has a width of 1 mm.
mm.

Here, the injection of the liquid 101 for adjusting the refractive index into the optical sheath 38 will be described. As shown in FIG. 21, the filling tube 102 is placed in the optical sheath 38.
Insert The filling tube 102 is inserted until its distal end contacts the inside of the optical sheath 38 distal end. Next, the optical sheath 38 is gradually filled with the refractive index matching medium 100 such as water through the filling tube 102 by the syringe 103. At this time, air escapes from the gap between the filling tube 102 and the optical sheath 38, and the liquid 100 is filled from the inner end of the optical sheath 38. This prevents air from remaining in the optical sheath 38 even with a highly viscous liquid such as water. After removing the filling tube 102, it may be inserted up to the tip of the probe assembly including the housing 52, the flexible shaft 40, and the like. Further, when removing the refractive index matching medium 100, it is only necessary to suck the medium with the filling tube 102.

As shown in FIG. 22, the bubble trap 101 is formed by forming a cylindrical stainless steel into a C-shape and fitting it around the outer periphery of the flexible shaft 40. Silicon rubber,
A heat shrink tube or the like may be used. Other configurations are first
This is the same as the embodiment.

The bubble trap 101 may be formed by forming flat stainless steel into a C shape as shown in FIG. 23, or by forming a cylindrical stainless steel into a coil shape as shown in FIG. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 25, the bubble trap 101 may be formed by multiple winding the coil 44 constituting the flexible shaft 40 at a predetermined position.

In this embodiment, when a bubble 99 is generated between the window 46 of the housing 52 and the optical sheath 38 (see FIG. 20), the tip of the optical probe 8G is turned downward as shown in FIG. And leave it for a while. Then, as shown in FIG. 27, 15 cm from the tip side of the optical probe 8G.
Swing left and right with a distance apart. Then, the bubbles 99 generated between the window 46 of the housing 52 and the optical sheath 38 are finely crushed and move to the bubble trap 101 side by the action of centrifugal force because the specific gravity is smaller than that of the refractive index matching medium 100. Come. Further, the finely crushed bubbles 99 are separated from the bubble trap 101 and the optical sheath 38.
And moves toward the hand of the optical probe 8G. The finely crushed bubbles that have moved to the hand side of the optical probe 8G combine again, but the combined bubbles cannot pass through the gap between the bubble trap 101 and the optical sheath 38 again due to surface tension, and the optical probe 8G Is prevented from moving toward the distal end.

According to the present embodiment described above, the first
In addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, the bubbles 99 generated between the window 46 on the light emission / incident surface and the optical sheath 38 are easily removed, and the removed bubbles 99 are removed by the bubble trap 10.
Since the movement of the optical probe 8G toward the distal end can be prevented by the method 1, an appropriate OCT image can be obtained.

As shown in FIG. 28, a plurality of bubble traps 101 are provided on the outer periphery of the flexible shaft 40 at predetermined intervals, and the inside of the optical sheath 38 filled with the liquid 100 for refractive index matching is divided into a plurality of partitions. It may be configured as follows.

With this configuration, the optical sheath 3
Bubble 99 generated between 8 and flexible shaft 40
Is trapped for each partition between the plurality of bubble traps 101.

As a result, bubbles 99 generated at the rear end of the probe
Is less likely to enter the probe tip side. In addition, the bubble trap 101 functions as a slip ring, and the rotation and advance / retreat of the flexible shaft 40 are smooth,
Since the housing 52 and the flexible shaft 40 are smoothly inserted into the optical sheath 38, and the housing 52 and the flexible shaft 40 can easily move forward and backward within the optical sheath 38, linear scanning and spiral scanning can be performed.

The injection of the liquid 100 for adjusting the refractive index into the optical sheath 38 is performed by the method shown in FIG. 21, but is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. A concave groove 105 is provided in the circumferential direction of the three distal ends, and a communication path 106 that communicates the inside and outside of the optical sheath 38 is formed in this portion as shown in FIG. An elastic ring 107 is fitted into the concave groove 105.

Then, as shown in FIG. 31, the connector 9 at the rear end of the optical sheath 38 is placed in a container 108 filled with the refractive index matching medium 100, and a vacuum suction device (not shown) is attached to the front end of the optical sheath 38. ) Is connected. By applying a negative pressure to the outside of the distal end of the optical sheath 38 by a vacuum suction device, the diameter of the elastic ring 107 is increased, the communication path 106 is opened, and the refractive index matching medium 1 remains without bubbles.
00 is filled. After filling the refractive index matching medium 100, a probe assembly including the housing 52 and the flexible shaft 40 may be inserted up to the tip of the optical sheath 38.

Further, if the elastic ring 107 is removed, or if a negative pressure is applied to the front end of the optical sheath 38 while the rear end of the optical sheath 38 is open to the air as described above, the refractive index matching medium 100 can be easily removed. Can be removed.

(Eighth Embodiment) In the conventional optical probe, since the coil constituting the flexible shaft is single-wound over its entire length, the followability to the rotation and the forward / backward movement is poor, and the movement is uneven. Proper OCT
There was a disadvantage that an image could not be obtained. In addition, the length of the flexible shaft changes greatly during bending, and the operability is deteriorated (the clearance at the distal end of the sheath must be increased).

Therefore, in the present embodiment, an optical probe which has a good follow-up property of the rotation / retraction movement transmitted to the distal end portion and which can obtain an appropriate OCT image will be described.

FIGS. 32 to 36 relate to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the optical probe, and FIG. 33 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the optical probe of FIG. FIG. 34 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a first modification of the optical probe of FIG. 32, FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation of the optical probe of FIG. 34, and FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the principal part of the 2nd modification.

Since the present embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 32, the flexible shaft 40 of the optical probe 8H of the present embodiment is configured by triple winding the coils 110 whose winding directions are alternately changed. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

According to the present embodiment, in addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33, even when observing the inside of a curved luminal organ 111, the coil 1
Flexible shaft 40 in which 10 are alternately triple wound
As a result, the rotation / forward / backward movement is transmitted to the leading end with good followability. Further, the total length of the flexible shaft 40 due to bending is less likely to advance or retreat.

As a result, since the followability of the rotation and the forward / backward movement of the tip of the probe is good, there is no unevenness in the movement and an appropriate OC.
A T image is obtained. Since the expansion and contraction are small, the optical fiber can be protected.

Although the coil 110 in which the winding direction is alternately changed is formed as a triple winding, as shown in FIG. 34, as a first modified example, the flexible shaft 40 near the distal end is formed. Coil 1
10 may be configured as double winding and triple winding at the base end side, and the diameter of the housing 52 may be configured to match the double winding.

The narrow diameter portion of the double winding is minimized as needed for the insertion site. At this time, the diameter of the optical sheath 38 also has a shape in which the distal end side is narrowed.

As described above, the rigidity is reduced while the diameter is small at the front end portion, and the rigidity is maintained at the large diameter at the rear end portion, and the followability of the rotation and the forward / backward movement can be secured.

That is, since the distal end portion is thin, the rigidity of the distal end portion is small, so that the optical probe 8H can be freely deformed even in a blood vessel having many bends. As shown in FIG. It can be inserted into a thin luminal organ 115 such as a blood vessel, a bile duct, or a pancreatic duct. In addition, since the rear end is kept rigid, it is easy to operate without causing unnecessary deformation. Further, since the small-diameter portion is kept to the minimum necessary, followability is good and a more appropriate OCT image can be obtained.

Although the flexible shaft 40 is configured by winding the coil 110 in which the winding direction is alternately changed to triple winding, as shown in FIG. 36, as a second modification, as the distance from the distal end increases, the flexible shaft 40 becomes Coil 110 is made into a single winding, a double winding, and a triple winding.
The small diameter portion of the heavy and double windings may be minimized according to the needs of the insertion site, and the diameter of the housing 52 may be configured to match the single winding.

As described above, the distal end portion has a smaller diameter and a lower rigidity. Therefore, since the distal end portion is thinner, it can be inserted into a blood vessel on the peripheral side in the body, a thin luminal organ, or the like.

(Ninth Embodiment) In the conventional optical probe, when the distal end is curved, the perfect cross section of the sheath is not maintained, and the rotating body and the sheath come into contact with each other to increase the friction, resulting in uneven rotation. Occurs, and an appropriate OCT image cannot be obtained.

Therefore, in this embodiment, a description will be given of an optical probe in which even when the distal end portion is curved, the distal end rotating body smoothly rotates in the optical sheath lumen and an appropriate OCT image is obtained.

FIGS. 37 to 39 relate to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 37 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe. FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a mesh ring of FIG. FIG. 39 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modified example of the optical probe of FIG.

Although the present embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the first embodiment, a description will be given based on a configuration example of a second modification of the optical probe 8B of the second embodiment. . That is, this embodiment has the same basic configuration as that of the first embodiment, and is therefore applicable to other embodiments of other configurations. Since it is almost the same as the second modification of the optical probe 8B of the second embodiment, only the parts different from the second modification of the optical probe 8B of the second embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, in the optical probe 8I of the present embodiment, the stainless steel mesh ring 120 provided with a mesh is provided at the contact portion 119 where the housing 52 contacts the inner wall of the optical sheath 38. The mesh ring 120 is provided on the contact portion 119 by bonding or welding, and is provided so as not to obstruct the observation beam and to avoid the region (the window 46) from which the observation beam is emitted. The other configuration is the same as the optical probe 8B of the second embodiment.
This is the same as the second modified example.

When the optical probe 8I is used by inserting it into the body cavity, even when the optical probe 8I is used in a state where the tip is bent, the true circle of the portion provided with the mesh ring 120 is maintained, and
2 and the contact portion of the optical sheath 38 can be smoothly rotated. In addition, since the mesh ring 120 is provided only at the contact portion between the housing 52 and the lumen of the optical sheath 38, the flexibility of the entire optical probe 8I is not lost.

According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, since the true circle of the portion provided with the mesh ring 120 is maintained, the rotation of the probe tip can be smoothly performed. An appropriate OCT image can be obtained.

As shown in FIG. 39, mesh ring 1
20 may be provided so as to be sandwiched between thin tubes 121. In this case, the mesh ring 120 can be prevented from directly touching the living body.

[Supplementary Notes] In an optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image using low coherence light, a flexible sheath at least on a distal end side of which is transparent, and emission and emission of the low coherence light provided in the sheath lumen
An entrance section, a housing for holding the exit / incidence section of the low interference light, a flexible shaft connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end, an inner surface of the sheath distal end and the housing distal end And an anti-friction means for preventing friction during rotation of the housing.

2. The tip surface of the housing is a convex surface,
2. The optical probe device according to claim 1, wherein a surface of the friction prevention unit that contacts the housing is a concave surface or a flat surface.

3. 2. The optical probe device according to claim 1, wherein a tip portion of the housing is a concave surface or a flat surface, and a surface of the friction prevention unit that contacts the housing is a convex surface.

4. 2. The optical probe device according to claim 1, wherein the friction preventing means is constituted by a ball bearing.

[0124] 5. 5. The optical probe device according to claim 1, further comprising an elastic member having one end held on the inner surface of the sheath distal end and the other end holding the friction preventing means.

6. In an optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image using low coherence light, an emission / incidence part of the low interference light provided in the sheath lumen and an emission / incidence part of the low interference light are held. A housing, a transparent cylindrical enclosure enclosing the housing, a flexible shaft connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end, and a flexible shaft connected to the enclosure to make the flexible shaft watertight. An optical probe device comprising: a sheath to be enclosed; and a friction preventing means provided between the distal end of the enclosure and the distal end of the housing to prevent friction during rotation of the housing.

7. An optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image by using low coherence light, wherein a flexible sheath at least on the distal end side is transparent; A housing for holding an emission / incident portion of the interference light, a flexible shaft connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end, a refractive index matching medium filled in the sheath, and the refractive index An optical probe device comprising: a bubble control unit provided in the vicinity of the light emitting / receiving part for removing bubbles from the matching medium.

8. In an optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image using low coherence light, a flexible sheath having at least a distal end side that is transparent, an emission / incident part of the low coherence light provided in the sheath lumen, A housing for holding the emission / incidence portion, a flexible shaft composed of a multiply-wound coil member connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end portion, and provided in a lumen of the pipe member. An optical fiber for transmitting the low-interference light.

9. An optical probe comprising a rotating body and a flexible sheath enclosing the rotating body, wherein the rotating body is provided with reinforcing means at a portion of the sheath in contact with the inner cavity of the sheath.

10. An optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image by using low coherence light, wherein a flexible sheath having at least a distal end side that is transparent, an emission / incidence part of the low coherence light provided in the sheath cavity, A housing for holding the emission / incidence portion of the interference light, a flexible shaft connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end, provided between the inner surface of the sheath distal end and the distal end of the housing, An optical probe device comprising: a friction preventing unit configured to prevent friction during rotation of the housing by making point contact with the front end of the housing.

[0130]

As described above, according to the optical probe device of the present invention, the friction preventing means is provided between the inner surface of the sheath distal end and the housing distal end to prevent the friction during rotation of the housing. It is possible to minimize and set the tip clearance at an appropriate position, and to stably hold the rotation axis of the emission / incidence part of the low interference light.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an optical imaging device including an optical probe device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an endoscope into which the optical probe device of FIG. 1 is inserted.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of the optical probe device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the optical probe device of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a first modified example of the optical probe of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a second modification of the optical probe of FIG. 5;

8 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a third modification of the optical probe of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a first explanatory view illustrating the operation of the optical probe of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a second explanatory view illustrating the operation of the optical probe in FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a first modified example of the optical probe of FIG. 11;

FIG. 15 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a second modification of the optical probe of FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a third modification of the optical probe of FIG. 11;

FIG. 17 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a fourth modification of the optical probe of FIG. 11;

FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a view showing a modification of the bearing of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram illustrating injection of a liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of the bubble trap of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a first modified example of the bubble trap of FIG. 20;

FIG. 24 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a second modification of the bubble trap of FIG. 20;

FIG. 25 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a third modification of the bubble trap of FIG. 20;

FIG. 26 is a first explanatory view illustrating the operation of the optical probe of FIG. 20;

FIG. 27 is a second explanatory view illustrating the operation of the optical probe in FIG. 20;

FIG. 28 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modified example of the optical probe of FIG. 20;

FIG. 29 is a first diagram illustrating a modification of injection of a liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG. 21;

30 is a second diagram illustrating a modification of the injection of a liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG. 21;

FIG. 31 is a third diagram illustrating a modification of injection of a liquid for refractive index matching into the optical sheath of FIG. 21;

FIG. 32 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation of the optical probe of FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a first modification of the optical probe of FIG. 32;

FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation of the optical probe of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a second modification of the optical probe of FIG. 32;

FIG. 37 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an optical probe according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the mesh ring of FIG. 37;

39 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modification of the optical probe of FIG. 37;

[Explanation of symbols]

 1A: Optical imaging device 2: Low coherence light source 3: First single mode fiber 4: Optical coupler section 5: Second single mode fiber 6: Optical rotary joint 7: Third single mode fiber 8A: Optical probe ( 9) Connector part 10 ... Fourth single mode fiber 11 ... Living tissue 13 ... Rotational drive device 14 ... Variable mechanism of optical path length 16 ... Grating 18 ... Single axis stage 19 ... Galvanometer mirror 20 ... Galvanometer controller 21 ... Position control Device 26 Monitor 25 Computer 27 Observation device 38 Optical sheath 39 Tip unit 40 Flexible shaft 51 Prism 52 Housing 61 Metal ball 62 Contact point 63 Tip surface

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Akihiro Horii 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Inside Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Hitoshi Mizuno 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Kenji Hirooka 2-43-2, Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. F-term (reference) 2G059 AA06 BB04 BB12 EE02 GG09 HH03 JJ11 KK01 4C061 AA00 BB04 CC07 DD03 FF37 FF40

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. An optical probe device for obtaining an optical tomographic image by using low coherence light, a flexible sheath having at least a distal end side that is transparent, and an emission / incident part of the low coherence light provided in the sheath cavity. A housing for holding the emission / incidence part of the low interference light, a flexible shaft connected to the housing and transmitting rotation from a driving means at a rear end part, and a sheath tip inner surface and the housing tip. An optical probe device comprising: a friction preventing means provided between the housing and the housing to prevent friction during rotation of the housing.