JP2003290136A - Flexible tube for endoscope and endoscope - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a flexible tube for an endoscope which can prevent an adverse influence due to a reaction of a substance in an inner cavity of the tube with hydrogen peroxide when the endoscope is hydrogen peroxide-plasma sterilized, and to provide the endoscope. <P>SOLUTION: This flexible tube 1' for the endoscope comprises a core 2 made of a spiral tube 21 and a net-like tube 22, and a skin 3 coating on an outer periphery of the core 2. The skin 3 is constituted of a laminate including an inner layer 31, an outer layer 32 and an intermediate layer 33. A hydrogen peroxide absorption substance layer 17 made of a substance which can absorb the hydrogen peroxide is provided between the layer 31 and the layer 32 of the skin 3. The absorption substance is preferred to be a substance constituted mainly of a cellulose and the like. A content of the cellulose and the like in the tube 1' is preferred to be 0.05 to 65 mg per 1 cm length. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a flexible tube for an endoscope and an endoscope.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In the medical field, endoscopes are used for examination and diagnosis of the digestive tract and the like. The insertion portion of the endoscope into the body cavity is a light guide in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope.
Various long members such as image guides, electric cables and various tubes are inserted. When the flexible tube for an endoscope is bent, friction and pressing force are generated between these long members. In order to reduce the friction and the pressing force to protect each long member, a lubricant is provided around each long member.

Since an endoscope is used repeatedly,
Clean and sterilize after each use. Conventionally, when an endoscope is sterilized by hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization, hydrogen peroxide that has entered the flexible tube for an endoscope reacts with molybdenum disulfide arranged as the lubricant to generate a corrosive substance,
There is a problem in that the outer skin of a flexible tube for an endoscope made of a resin material or a rubber material is attacked by this corrosive substance and deteriorates or deteriorates.

[0004]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to react hydrogen peroxide with a substance in the lumen of a flexible tube for an endoscope when the endoscope is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide plasma. An object of the present invention is to provide a flexible tube for an endoscope and an endoscope capable of preventing the occurrence of adverse effects.

[0005]

The above object is achieved by the present invention described in (1) to (16) below.

(1) A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin coated on the outer circumference of the core material, wherein hydrogen peroxide is absorbed in a portion other than the outer peripheral surface thereof. A flexible tube for an endoscope, which comprises a substance capable of performing.

Thus, when the endoscope is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide plasma, it is possible to prevent the adverse effect due to the reaction between the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for endoscope and hydrogen peroxide. A flexible tube for an endoscope can be provided.

(2) A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin coated on the outer circumference of the core material, which is mainly composed of cellulose in a portion other than the outer peripheral surface thereof. A flexible tube for an endoscope, characterized in that the flexible tube has a selected substance.

Thus, when the endoscope is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide plasma, it is possible to prevent the adverse effect caused by the reaction between the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope and hydrogen peroxide. A flexible tube for an endoscope can be provided.

(3) 0.05 to 65 mg per 1 cm length
The flexible tube for an endoscope according to the above (2), which contains the celluloses of.

This makes it possible to obtain a better hydrogen peroxide absorbency and prevent the elasticity from decreasing.

(4) The flexible tube for an endoscope according to (2) or (3) above, wherein the cellulose is derived from pulp.

As a result, the celluloses are easily available and inexpensive, and the celluloses have excellent biocompatibility and higher safety.

(5) The flexible tube for an endoscope according to any one of the above (1) to (4), wherein the substance is present inside the outer skin.

With this, it is possible to more reliably prevent the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope from reacting with hydrogen peroxide.

(6) The flexible tube for an endoscope according to (5), wherein the substance is present in a state of being dispersed in the material of the outer cover.

With this, it is possible to more reliably prevent the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope from reacting with hydrogen peroxide.

(7) The flexible tube for an endoscope according to the above (5), wherein the outer skin has a portion constituted by a laminated body of a plurality of layers, and the substance exists between the layers.

Thus, it is possible to more reliably prevent the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope from reacting with hydrogen peroxide.

(8) The flexible tube for an endoscope according to any one of the above (1) to (7), wherein the substance is in the form of powder, particles or fibers.

As a result, hydrogen peroxide can be absorbed with higher efficiency, and more excellent hydrogen peroxide absorption can be obtained.

(9) An endoscope comprising the flexible tube for an endoscope according to any one of the above (1) to (8).

Thus, when the endoscope is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide plasma, it is possible to prevent the adverse effect due to the reaction between the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope and hydrogen peroxide. An endoscope can be provided.

(10) A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin covering the outer periphery of the core material, and the flexible tube for an endoscope is inserted into an inner cavity of the flexible tube. An endoscope including a long member and a lubricant disposed in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope, wherein hydrogen peroxide is absorbed in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope. An endoscope having a substance capable of performing.

Thus, when the endoscope is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide plasma, it is possible to prevent the adverse effect due to the reaction between the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope and hydrogen peroxide. An endoscope can be provided.

(11) A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin covering the outer periphery of the core material, and the flexible tube for the endoscope is inserted into the inner cavity of the flexible tube. An endoscope comprising a long member and a lubricant disposed in the lumen of the endoscope flexible tube, wherein the lumen of the endoscope flexible tube is mainly composed of celluloses. An endoscope characterized by having a substance.

Thus, when the endoscope is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide plasma, it is possible to prevent the adverse effect caused by the reaction between the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope and hydrogen peroxide. An endoscope can be provided.

(12) Length of the flexible tube for endoscope is 1 cm
The above (1 containing 0.05 to 65 mg of celluloses per
The endoscope according to 1).

This makes it possible to obtain a better hydrogen peroxide absorbency and prevent the elasticity from decreasing.

(13) The flexible tube for an endoscope according to the above (11) or (12), wherein the cellulose is derived from pulp.

As a result, the celluloses are easily available and inexpensive, and the celluloses have excellent biocompatibility and higher safety.

(14) The endoscope according to any one of (10) to (13), wherein the substance is present together with the lubricant.

This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the substance contained in the lubricant from reacting with hydrogen peroxide.

(15) The endoscope according to any one of the above (10) to (14), wherein the substance is in the form of powder, particles or fibers.

As a result, hydrogen peroxide can be absorbed with higher efficiency, and more excellent hydrogen peroxide absorption can be obtained.

(16) The endoscope according to any one of the above (10) to (15), wherein the lubricant contains molybdenum disulfide.

As a result, it is possible to further reduce friction and pressing force generated between the long members inserted in the inner cavity of the flexible tube for an endoscope.

[0038]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION A flexible tube for endoscope and an endoscope of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

<First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an embodiment of an endoscope of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is shown in FIG. It is a semi-longitudinal sectional view showing a flexible tube for endoscope (insertion section flexible tube) in an endoscope. In the following, for convenience of description, the upper side in FIG. 1 is referred to as the “base end” and the lower side is referred to as the “tip”.

The endoscope (electronic endoscope) 10 shown in FIG.
An elongated flexible tube for endoscope (flexible tube for insertion portion) 1, a bending portion 5 connected to the tip of the flexible tube for endoscope 1, and a proximal end side of the flexible tube for endoscope 1. An operating portion 6 that is provided and is operated by an operator to operate the entire endoscope 10, a connecting portion flexible tube 7 whose one end is connected to the operating portion 6, and the other end side of the connecting portion flexible tube 7 It has the light source insertion part 8 provided.

The flexible tube 1 for an endoscope and the bending portion 5 constitute an insertion portion to be inserted into the lumen (tubular organ) of a living body. Various elongated members to be described later are inserted as internal components into the lumens of the flexible tube 1 for endoscope and the bending portion 5. The flexible tube 1 for an endoscope will be described later.

The bending portion 5 is composed of a plurality of node rings rotatably connected to each other, a mesh tube covering the outer circumference of the node ring, and an outer skin covering the outer circumference of the mesh tube. . The bending portion 5 as described above can be remotely operated as described later.

An image pickup device (CCD) (not shown) for picking up a subject image in the observation region is provided at the tip of the bending portion 5.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the lumen 24 of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope, a light guide 11 formed of an optical fiber bundle (optical fiber bundle), an image signal cable 12, a bending operation wire 13, A treatment instrument insertion tube 14 and an air / liquid feeding tube 15 are respectively inserted and installed.

Lumen 141 of treatment instrument insertion tube 14
Is a treatment instrument insertion channel, and various treatment instruments such as forceps or inspection instruments can be used by inserting them from the operation portion 6 into the inner cavity 141 and projecting from the tip of the bending portion 5. In addition, through the inside of the air / liquid feeding tube 15,
Air can be fed and liquid can be fed into the lumen from the tip of the bending portion 5.

Light guide 11, image signal cable 1
2, bending operation wire 13, treatment instrument insertion tube 14
A lubricant 16 is provided on the outer periphery (periphery) of a long member such as the air / liquid feeding tube 15. Further, the lubricant 16 is also provided in the gap between the optical fibers forming the light guide 11 (not shown).

By disposing the lubricant 16, it is possible to reduce friction and pressing force generated between the elongated members when the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope is inserted into a body cavity and curved. Therefore, the long member can be protected. Also,
It is also possible to prevent an increase in bending resistance of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope.

The lubricant 16 contains molybdenum disulfide. As a result, particularly excellent lubricity can be obtained, and the friction and pressing force generated between the long members can be reduced more reliably. In this case, the lubricant 16
May be composed only of molybdenum disulfide, may contain other types of solid lubricants, and may contain molybdenum disulfide in a dispersion medium such as silicone gel or grease oil.

The proximal end portion of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope is connected to the operation portion 6. Operation knobs 61 and 62 are installed in the operation unit 6. When the operation knobs 61 and 62 are operated, the bending operation wire 13 arranged in the endoscope flexible tube 1 is pulled, and the bending direction and the bending degree of the bending portion 5 can be freely operated. .

The light source insertion section 8 is provided with a light source connector 81 and an image signal connector 82, and the endoscope 10 is connected to a light source processor device (not shown) via both connectors. To be done. Further, the light source processor device is connected to a monitor device (not shown) via a cable.

The light emitted from the light source in the light source processor device is supplied to the light source insertion portion 8, the connecting portion flexible tube 7 and the operating portion 6.
Inside, the flexible tube for endoscope 1 and the light guide 11 continuously arranged in the bending portion 5 are passed through, and the observation site is irradiated with light from the tip of the bending portion 5 and illuminated.

The reflected light (subject image) from the observation region illuminated by the illumination light is imaged by the image sensor. An image signal corresponding to a subject image captured by the image sensor is output via a buffer (not shown).

This image signal is continuously arranged in the bending section 5, the endoscope flexible tube 1, the operation section 6 and the connecting section flexible tube 7, and the image pickup device and the image signal connector are arranged. It is transmitted to the light source insertion portion 8 via the image signal cable 12 connecting to the light source 82.

Then, predetermined processing (for example, signal processing, image processing, etc.) is performed in the light source insertion unit 8 and the light source processor unit, and then input to the monitor unit. In the monitor device, an image (electronic image) captured by the image sensor,
That is, the moving image of the endoscope monitor image is displayed.

Needless to say, the present invention can be applied not only to the electronic endoscope such as the endoscope 10 but also to various endoscopes including a fiber endoscope.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope has a core material 2 and an outer cover 3 covering the outer periphery thereof.

The core material 2 is composed of a spiral tube 21 and a mesh tube (braided body) 22 that covers the outer periphery of the spiral tube 21, and is formed as a long tubular product as a whole. The core material 2 has an effect of reinforcing the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope.

The spiral tube 21 is formed by spirally winding a strip-shaped material with a substantially uniform diameter at intervals 25. As a material forming the strip-shaped material, for example, various metal materials such as stainless steel, aluminum or aluminum alloy, titanium or titanium alloy, copper or copper alloy are preferably used.

The mesh tube 22 is formed by braiding a plurality of thin wires 23 arranged side by side. Examples of the material forming the thin wire 23 include the above-mentioned various metal materials or non-metal materials. Further, at least one of the thin wires 23 forming the reticulated tube 22 may be covered with a synthetic resin (not shown).

A braided thin wire 2 is provided on the outer periphery of the mesh tube 22.
The gap 26 is formed by the stitches of No. 3. The gap 26 becomes a recess at a position overlapping with the outer circumference of the spiral tube 21, and becomes a hole communicating with the inner cavity 24 at a position overlapping with the space 25 of the spiral tube 21, thus forming a large number of holes and recesses on the outer circumference of the core material 2. Is forming.

The outer periphery of the core material 2 is covered with an outer cover 3. The outer cover 3 is composed of a laminated body having an inner layer 31, an outer layer 32, and an intermediate layer 33.

The outer skin 3 includes an inner layer 31, an outer layer 32, and an intermediate layer 3.
It is preferable that any one of the three layers is made of a material having physical properties or chemical properties different from those of the other one layer. The physical properties include, for example, rigidity (flexibility), hardness, elongation, tensile strength, shear strength, flexural modulus, flexural strength, etc., and the chemical properties include, for example, chemical resistance. , Weather resistance and the like. It should be noted that these are examples and the present invention is not limited to these.

The inner layer 31 is formed on the innermost side of the outer cover 3 and is in close contact with the core material 2.

On the inner peripheral surface of the inner layer 31, a large number of protrusions (anchors) 4 protruding toward the inner peripheral side are formed continuously from the inner layer 31. Each of the protrusions 4 enters a large number of holes and recesses formed in the outer periphery of the core material 2. The tip of the protruding portion 4 that has entered the recess is the spiral tube 2
It is formed until reaching the outer circumference of 1. The protruding portion 4 that has entered the hole is formed to be longer, and the tip of the protruding portion 4 has entered the space 25 of the spiral tube 21.

The inner layer 31 has a size (length) of the protrusion 4,
It is preferable that the protrusion 4 is formed of a material that can be controlled so that the shape, the number, and the like are appropriate.

Since the projecting portion 4 is formed as described above, the projecting portion 4 engages with a large number of holes and recesses formed on the outer periphery of the core material 2, so that an anchor effect is produced and the core material 2 is formed. On the other hand, the outer skin 3 is securely fixed. For this reason, even when the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope is curved, the outer cover 3 maintains a state in which it is in close contact with the core material 2, and expands and contracts sufficiently greatly according to the curvature of the core material 2. The restoring force of the outer skin 3 which has greatly expanded and contracted in this way is strongly exerted, and contributes greatly to the force for restoring the bending of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope. Therefore, with such a configuration, the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope has excellent elasticity.

Further, since the protruding portion 4 is formed, the binding force between the outer cover 3 and the reticulated tube 22 is strong, so that the outer cover 3 is unlikely to peel off from the reticulated tube 22 even after repeated use. Therefore, the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope maintains good elasticity even after repeated use and is excellent in durability.

Although the constituent material of the inner layer 31 is not particularly limited, for example, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyolefin such as ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PE).
T), polyester such as polybutylene terephthalate,
Fluorine-based resins such as polyurethane, polystyrene resin, polytetrafluoroethylene, ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, and resins with various flexibility such as polyimide, polyurethane-based elastomer, polyester-based elastomer, polyolefin-based elastomer, polyamide-based It is possible to use one kind or a combination of two or more kinds of various elastomers such as an elastomer, a polystyrene-based elastomer, a fluorine-based elastomer, a silicone rubber, a fluororubber and a latex rubber.

Of these, polyurethane-based elastomers, polyolefin-based elastomers, and polyester-based elastomers are particularly easy to control the formation of the protrusions 4,
preferable.

The thickness of the inner layer 31 (excluding the portion of the protruding portion 4) is not particularly limited, but is usually from 0.05 to
It is preferably about 0.8 mm, more preferably about 0.05 to 0.4 mm.

The outer layer 32 is formed on the outermost side of the outer cover 3. The outer layer 32 is preferably made of a material having chemical resistance. As a result, the outer cover 3 is less deteriorated even after repeated cleaning and disinfection, and the outer cover 3 is less likely to be hardened and less flexible, or the outer cover 3 is less likely to be peeled off from the mesh tube 22 due to cracks or the like.

The hardness of the outer layer 32 is set to be relatively high. The hardness of the outer layer 32 is preferably higher than the hardness of the inner layer 31 and the intermediate layer 33. As a result, even if it is repeatedly used, the surface of the outer cover 3 is unlikely to be scratched and is unlikely to cause a crack or the like.

Here, usually, when the hardness of the outer layer 32 is set to be relatively high in consideration of chemical resistance and scratch resistance, the flexibility and elasticity of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope are obtained. May deteriorate. On the other hand, the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope does not have such a fear because the flexible intermediate layer 33 is provided as described later.

The constituent material of the outer layer 32 is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include polyolefin such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PE).
T), polyester such as polybutylene terephthalate,
Fluorine-based resins such as polyurethane, polystyrene resin, polytetrafluoroethylene, ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, and resins with various flexibility such as polyimide, polyurethane-based elastomer, polyester-based elastomer, polyolefin-based elastomer, polyamide-based It is possible to use one kind or a combination of two or more kinds of various elastomers such as an elastomer, a polystyrene-based elastomer, a fluorine-based elastomer, a silicone rubber, a fluororubber and a latex rubber.

Among these, in particular, polyolefins such as ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer and the like, fluorine-based resins such as polytetrafluoroethylene and ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, polyolefin-based elastomers, fluorine-based elastomers, silicone rubber, and fluorine. Rubber is preferable because it has excellent chemical resistance.

Although the thickness of the outer layer 32 is not particularly limited,
Usually, 0.05 to 0.8 mm is preferable,
It is more preferably about 0.4 mm.

The intermediate layer 33 is formed between the inner layer 31 and the outer layer 32. The intermediate layer 33 is preferably a layer that is more flexible (more elastic) than the outer layer 32. Thereby, the intermediate layer 33 exerts a cushioning function between the inner layer 31 and the outer layer 32. The intermediate layer 33 is the inner layer 31.
It is preferably a softer layer.

The cushioning function of the intermediate layer 33 will be described in more detail. When the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope is bent, the resilience of the deformed intermediate layer 33 is strongly exerted due to the excellent elasticity of the intermediate layer 33. Since the intermediate layer 33 is sandwiched between the inner layer 31 and the outer layer 32 having a relatively high hardness, the restoring force of the intermediate layer 33 is efficiently transmitted to the inner layer 31 and the outer layer 32. Therefore, almost all of the restoring force of the intermediate layer 33 is used for restoring the bending of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope. Therefore, with such a configuration, the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope has excellent elasticity.

The constituent material of the intermediate layer 33 is not particularly limited, but for example, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyolefin such as ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (P
ET), polyester such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polystyrene resin, fluororesin such as polytetrafluoroethylene, ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, resin having various flexibility such as polyimide, polyurethane elastomer, 1 of various elastomers such as polyester elastomers, polyolefin elastomers, polyamide elastomers, polystyrene elastomers, fluorine elastomers, silicone rubbers, fluorine rubbers and latex rubbers
One kind or a combination of two or more kinds can be used.

Of these, particularly low hardness, polyurethane-based elastomers, polyolefin-based elastomers, and polyester-based elastomers are preferable because they are excellent in flexibility (elasticity).

In the present embodiment, the intermediate layer 33 has a single layer structure, but it may have a structure in which two or more intermediate layers 33 are formed.

The thickness of the intermediate layer 33 is not particularly limited, but normally, it is preferably about 0.05 to 0.8 mm,
It is more preferably about 05 to 0.4 mm.

The overall thickness of the outer cover 3 (excluding the protruding portion 4) can protect the various elongated members inserted into the core material 2 and the inner cavity 24 from liquids such as body fluids. Moreover, it is not particularly limited as long as it does not hinder the bendability of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope. Usually, it is preferably about 0.15 to 0.9 mm, more preferably about 0.3 to 0.8 mm. The thickness of the outer cover 3 may be constant or may change along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope flexible tube 1.

Further, the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32 and the intermediate layer 3
The thickness of 3 may be constant or may change along the longitudinal direction of the flexible tube 1 for endoscopes.

Further, the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32 and the intermediate layer 3
The thickness of 3 may be constant or may change along the circumferential direction of the flexible tube 1 for endoscopes.

Further, the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32 or the intermediate layer 3
Each of 3 may be eliminated in a part in the longitudinal direction of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope. That is, the number of layers of the laminate forming the outer cover 3 may change along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope flexible tube 1.

The method for manufacturing the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope as described above is not particularly limited, but it can be manufactured continuously by coating the outer cover 3 on the core material 2 by extrusion molding. . According to the extruder having a plurality of extrusion ports, the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32, and the intermediate layer 33 can be extruded at the same time, and the laminate can be coated on the core material 2. Further, the thickness of each layer can be adjusted by adjusting the discharge amount of the constituent material of each layer from each extrusion port and the drawing speed of the core material 2.

The material temperature at the time of extrusion molding is not particularly limited, but is preferably about 130 to 220 ° C., more preferably about 165 to 205 ° C., for example. When the material temperature during extrusion is within this temperature range,
The material has excellent processability for forming the outer cover 3. Therefore, the uniformity of the thickness of the outer cover 3 is improved.

In the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope as described above, a substance capable of absorbing (or adsorbing) hydrogen peroxide at a site other than the outer peripheral surface (outer surface) thereof (hereinafter referred to as "hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance"). "
Say). When the endoscope 10 is sterilized by hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization, the outer cover 3 of the flexible tube 1 for endoscopes
Hydrogen peroxide that has penetrated (penetrated) from the outer surface of is absorbed by this hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance. Therefore, in the present invention, hydrogen peroxide at the time of hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization and a substance such as molybdenum disulfide in the lubricant 16 in the lumen 24 of the endoscope flexible tube 1 (hereinafter, referred to as “two (Represented by “molybdenum sulfide”) can be prevented. Thereby, for example, it is possible to prevent the corrosive substance generated by the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and molybdenum disulfide from causing an adverse effect such as deterioration and deterioration of the outer cover 3. The corrosive substance caused by the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and molybdenum disulfide is not clear, but it is considered to be sulfuric acid, sulfurous acid, hydrogen sulfide or the like.

The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is not particularly limited as long as it absorbs hydrogen peroxide, but the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope of this embodiment is mainly composed of cellulose as a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance. It has a substance composed of a class.
As a result, in this embodiment, more excellent hydrogen peroxide absorbency can be obtained. In addition, celluloses are highly compatible with living organisms, and high flexibility of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope can be obtained.
Further, a substance mainly composed of celluloses is easy to obtain and relatively inexpensive, and therefore contributes to reduction in manufacturing cost of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope. In addition, celluloses have a low reaction activity with resin components and the like and do not cause alteration or the like.

In the present specification, celluloses mean
In addition to cellulose, it is a concept including various cellulose derivatives, for example, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, benzyl cellulose, trityl cellulose,
Cyanethyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose, aminoethyl cellulose, cellulose ether such as oxyethyl cellulose, nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate, acetyl cellulose, cellulose propionate, cellulose butyrate, cellulose sulfate,
The concept also includes cellulose esters such as cellulose phosphate, cellulose acetate butyrate and cellulose nitrate butyrate, alkali cellulose such as sodium cellulose, potassium cellulose and lithium cellulose, and hemicellulose.

As the substance mainly composed of celluloses, for example, substances derived from various pulps can be used. As a result, it can be obtained more easily and cheaply, and higher safety can be obtained. The type of the pulp is not particularly limited, and for example, pulp for papermaking, dissolving pulp and the like can be used, and the raw material of the pulp is also not particularly limited, and examples thereof include wood, bamboo, hemp, cotton, straw, bagasse, sasa, Examples include reeds.

The content of celluloses is not particularly limited, and is slightly different depending on the thickness of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope and the like, but normally, the endoscope 10 has a flexible tube 1 for an endoscope. 1 cm in length
It is preferable that it contains 0.05 to 65 mg of celluloses per unit, and it is more preferable that it contains 0.1 to 50 mg of celluloses per 1 cm of the length of the flexible tube 1 for endoscopes. 0.2 per 1 cm of length of flexible tube
More preferably, it contains ˜40 mg of cellulose.

When the content of celluloses is less than the lower limit value described above, sufficient hydrogen peroxide absorbency may not be exhibited when the total number of hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilizations is increased.

If the content of cellulose exceeds the upper limit, the elasticity of the flexible tube 1 for endoscope (insertion portion) may be lowered depending on the conditions such as the constituent material of the outer cover 3. .

The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance contained in the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope is preferably in the form of powder, particles or fibers. As a result, the outer surface area of the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is increased, the absorption efficiency is increased, and more excellent hydrogen peroxide absorption is obtained.

In the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope of this embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance exists in a state of being dispersed in the material of the intermediate layer 33 of the outer cover 3. Such a state is, for example,
It is obtained by forming the intermediate layer 33 using a material obtained by kneading the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance with the material of the intermediate layer 33 when the outer cover 3 is coated on the core material 2 by extrusion molding.

In this embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance existing inside the outer cover 3 can surely absorb the hydrogen peroxide which is going to pass through the outer cover 3. Therefore, the flexible tube for an endoscope is used. It is possible to more reliably prevent the reaction between molybdenum disulfide in the inner lumen 24 and hydrogen peroxide.

Further, in the present embodiment, the presence of the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance in the intermediate layer 33 allows, for example, the inner layer 31.
It is possible to achieve the above-mentioned effects without deteriorating the function of the outer cover 3 such as the adhesion to the core material 2 and the chemical resistance of the outer layer 32.

According to the present invention, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may be present in the inner layer 31 or the outer layer 32. In addition, the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32, and the intermediate layer 33.
The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may be present in any two of them or in all of the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32 and the intermediate layer 33.

The outer cover 3 may be composed of a single layer over the entire length, and the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may be dispersed therein.

Further, it is preferable that the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is present over the entire length of the flexible tube 1 for endoscope (insertion section). More preferably, it is present in a substantially uniform ratio along the longitudinal direction.

<Second Embodiment> FIG. 4 is a semi-longitudinal sectional view showing a second embodiment of the flexible tube for an endoscope of the present invention. Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to this drawing, but the description will focus on differences from the above-described embodiment, and description of similar matters will be omitted.

In the flexible tube 1 ′ for an endoscope of this embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance does not exist in the intermediate layer 33 of the outer cover 3 but exists between the inner layer 31 and the intermediate layer 33. There is. That is, the endoscope flexible tube 1 ′ has the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance layer 17 between the inner layer 31 and the intermediate layer 33.

The method of forming such a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance layer 17 is not particularly limited, but, for example, the outer cover 3 and the core material 2 are used.
In the case of coating by extrusion molding, a blowout port (nozzle) is provided between the extrusion port of the material of the inner layer 31 and the extrusion port of the material of the intermediate layer 33 in the extrusion molding machine, and powder, granules or fibers are blown from this blowout port. It can be formed by placing a hydrogen peroxide-absorbing substance in the form of a stream on an air stream and blowing it out.

According to the flexible tube for an endoscope 1'and the endoscope 10 including the same, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Further, in the present embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is present independently of each layer of the outer cover 3, so that the above effect can be achieved without deteriorating the function of the outer cover 3.

The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance layer 17 may be formed between the outer layer 32 and the intermediate layer 33, or may be formed both between the inner layer 31 and the intermediate layer 33. . Further, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may be present in a dispersed state in the constituent materials of the inner layer 31, the outer layer 32, or the intermediate layer 33.

<Third Embodiment> Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The differences from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the same matters will be omitted.

The endoscope 10 of this embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 does not have a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance inside the outer skin 3 of the flexible tube 1 for an endoscope, and is distributed together with the lubricant 16. Has a hydrogen peroxide absorbing material. That is, in this embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is present in a state of being mixed with the lubricant 16 or being applied from above the lubricant 16. As a result, in the present embodiment, as in the above-described embodiment, the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and molybdenum disulfide contained in the lubricant 16 at the time of hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization is prevented, and the corrosive substances due to this reaction are prevented. Occurrence can be prevented.

Since the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is present in the vicinity of the lubricant 16, the reaction between molybdenum disulfide in the lubricant 16 and hydrogen peroxide can be more reliably prevented.

The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is the lubricant 16
Separately from (in another place), the lumen 24 of the flexible tube for endoscope 1
May be placed in. Further, in the present embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may also be present inside the outer cover 3.

Although the flexible tube for endoscopes and the endoscope of the present invention have been described above with reference to the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not limited to this, and the flexible tube for endoscopes and Each part that constitutes the endoscope can be replaced with an arbitrary structure that can exhibit the same function. In addition, any constituent may be added.

The flexible tube and endoscope for endoscopes of the present invention may be a combination of any two or more configurations (features) of the above-mentioned embodiments.

Further, in the present invention, the location for disposing the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may be any location other than the outer peripheral surface of the flexible tube for an endoscope, for example, a mesh tube and a spiral tube. The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance may be present during the period or in a state of being attached to the inner peripheral surface of the spiral tube.

Further, in the present invention, it is preferable that the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is present over the entire length of the flexible tube for endoscope (insertion portion), but the flexible tube for endoscope (insertion portion) is preferable. There may be a site where the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance does not exist in a part of.

Further, in the present invention, the purpose of providing the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is not limited to the prevention of the reaction with molybdenum disulfide, but the reaction with any substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope is prevented. May be the purpose.

Needless to say, the flexible tube for an endoscope of the present invention can also be applied to a flexible tube for a connecting portion.

[0119]

EXAMPLES Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to Examples and Comparative Examples.
It will be described in more detail.

1. Preparation of Test Body (Example 1) In the following manner, a test body corresponding to a portion of the flexible tube of the insertion portion of the endoscope 10 was manufactured.

A stainless steel strip having a width of 3 mm was wound to prepare a spiral tube 21 having an outer diameter of φ9.9 mm and an inner diameter of φ9.6 mm. Next, a stainless wire 2 with a diameter of 0.1 mm
A braided tube 22 was produced by braiding 10 pieces of 3 arranged. This mesh tube 22 covers the spiral tube 21, and the core material 2
Got

Next, the outer periphery of the core 2 is extruded to
Inner layer 31 made of medium-hardness polyurethane elastomer
(Thickness 0.3 mm), outer layer 32 made of high-hardness polyester elastomer (thickness 0.1 mm), and intermediate layer 33 made of low-hardness polyurethane elastomer (thickness 0.2).
mm) and an outer cover 3 made of three layers is covered by extrusion molding, and a flexible tube for an endoscope as shown in FIG. 3 (length 150 cm)
Got At the time of this extrusion molding, by forming the inner layer 31 using a material in which a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is kneaded together,
The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance was made to exist in the inner layer 31 in a dispersed state.

As the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance, a paper product manufactured by using pulp for papermaking extracted from wood as a raw material and mainly composed of celluloses (mainly cellulose and hemicellulose) (Kim towel white manufactured by Crecia Co., Ltd.) ) Was used in the form of powder. The content of celluloses in this hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance was 90% or more. Further, the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance was arranged so that the amount per unit length of the flexible tube for an endoscope was uniform along the longitudinal direction.

The elongated member as shown in FIG. 2 is inserted into the lumen of the thus obtained flexible tube for an endoscope in a state where the lubricant 16 is applied to the periphery thereof, A test body corresponding to the portion of the insertion portion flexible tube of 10 was obtained. Molybdenum disulfide was used as the lubricant 16.

(Examples 2 to 10) Specimens were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the amount of hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance was changed.

(Embodiment 11) As shown in FIG. 4, a hydrogen peroxide absorbing material layer 17 made of the same hydrogen peroxide absorbing material as in Embodiment 1 is provided between the inner layer 31 and the intermediate layer 33, and the outer skin is formed. A test body similar to that of Example 1 was prepared except that the inner layer 31 of No. 3 did not have a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance. The hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance layer 17 is provided with a blowout port between the extrusion port of the material of the inner layer 31 and the extrusion port of the material of the intermediate layer 33 in the extruder, and the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is turned into an air stream from this blowout port. It was formed by putting it on and blowing it off.

(Examples 12 to 20) Specimens were prepared in the same manner as in Example 11 except that the amount of hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance was changed.

(Embodiment 21) A hydrogen peroxide absorbing material similar to that of Embodiment 1 is uniformly mixed with the lubricant 16 in the inner cavity of the flexible tube for an endoscope along the longitudinal direction to form an outer cover. A test body similar to that of Example 1 was prepared except that the inner layer 31 of No. 3 did not have a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance.

(Examples 22 to 30) Specimens were prepared in the same manner as in Example 21 except that the amount of hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance was changed.

(Comparative Example) A test body similar to that of Example 1 was prepared except that the inner layer 31 of the outer cover 3 did not contain a hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance.

2. Evaluation [2.1] Hydrogen Peroxide Absorption Test Ten test specimens of each of the examples and comparative examples were prepared, and a hydrogen peroxide absorption test was conducted on them by the following method. An indicator that changes color from red to yellow when hydrogen peroxide is touched in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope in a test body (Chemical manufactured by Johnson & Johnson)
Indicator Strip REF14100) was put in, and both end openings of the flexible tube for endoscope were hermetically sealed. The indicator was taken out after leaving this test body for 1 hour in a hydrogen peroxide atmosphere. The hydrogen peroxide absorbency was evaluated according to the following four grades according to the color of this indicator. The conditions of the hydrogen peroxide atmosphere are as follows: hydrogen peroxide concentration 30%, pressure 20 to
The temperature was 30 torr and the temperature was 45 to 48 ° C. ◎: Red ○: Light red △: Orange ×: Yellow

[2.2] Durability Test Against Hydrogen Peroxide Plasma Sterilization The test specimens of each Example and Comparative Example were tested for durability against hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization by the following method. Using a gas plasma sterilizer (“STERRAD” manufactured by Johnson & Johnson Medical Co., Ltd.), hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization treatment for 45 minutes was repeated 20 times for each of the test samples of Examples and Comparative Examples. . Then, the state of the outer skin of the flexible tube for an endoscope of each test body was evaluated according to the following four-stage criteria. ⊚: No change in appearance. No skin cracks or lifts. ○: Almost no change in appearance. The outer skin is slightly lifted. Δ: It can be seen that the appearance deteriorated. Lifting of the outer skin occurs everywhere. X: The deterioration of the appearance can be clearly recognized. Significant cracking and floating of the outer skin.

[2.3] Elasticity Test Before and after the sterilization treatment in [2.2], the elasticity of each of the test bodies of Examples and Comparative Examples was tested by the following method. The operation feeling when 10 test specimens of each Example and Comparative Example were bundled and bent together was evaluated according to the following four-stage criteria. ⊚: Rich in elasticity. ○: It has elasticity. Δ: Poor elasticity X: Almost no elasticity.

The addition amount of the hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance per 1 cm in length in the test samples of each Example and Comparative Example, and [2.
Table 1 collectively shows the evaluation results of the tests 1] to [2.3].

[0135]

[Table 1]

As can be seen from the results shown in Table 1, the test bodies of the respective examples had no or only slight discoloration of the indicator and had excellent hydrogen peroxide absorbability.
Further, the test bodies of the respective examples maintained good appearance and elasticity even after repeated hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization, and were excellent in durability against hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization.

On the other hand, in the test body of the comparative example, the indicator was completely discolored and had no hydrogen peroxide absorbability. In addition, the test body of the comparative example was significantly deteriorated in appearance and elasticity after repeated hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization, and was inferior in durability against hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization.

The type of hydrogen peroxide absorbing substance is mainly composed of cellulose ether (carboxymethyl cellulose), mainly cellulose ester (nitrocellulose), and mainly alkali cellulose (sodium cellulose). Test materials were prepared in the same manner as above except that the substances were changed to the following substances, and the same evaluations as above were performed for these. As a result, it was confirmed that the same effects as those in the above-mentioned embodiment were obtained.

[0139]

As described above, according to the present invention, when the endoscope is sterilized by hydrogen peroxide plasma, the substance in the lumen of the flexible tube for an endoscope reacts with hydrogen peroxide. Can be prevented. Therefore, for example, it is possible to prevent the adverse effect such as the deterioration and deterioration of the outer skin of the flexible tube for an endoscope due to the corrosive substance generated by this reaction.

When a substance mainly composed of cellulose is used as a substance capable of absorbing hydrogen peroxide, more excellent hydrogen peroxide absorbability and safety can be obtained, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Also contribute to.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an embodiment of an endoscope of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line XX in FIG.

3 is a semi-longitudinal sectional view showing a flexible tube for an endoscope in the endoscope shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a semi-longitudinal sectional view showing a second embodiment of the flexible tube for an endoscope of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

Flexible tube for endoscope 2 core material 21 spiral tube 22 Reticulated tube 23 Fine line 24 lumen 25 intervals 26 Gap 3 outer skin 31 inner layer 32 outer layer 33 Middle class 4 Projection 5 curved part 6 Operation part 61, 62 operation knob 7 Flexible tube 8 Light source insertion part 81 Light source connector 82 Image signal connector 10 endoscope 11 Light guide 12 Image signal cable 13 Bending operation wire 14 Treatment tool insertion tube 141 lumen 15 Air / liquid feeding tube 16 Lubricants 17 Hydrogen Peroxide Absorbing Material Layer

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. A flexible tube for an endoscope, comprising a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin coated on the outer periphery of the core material, wherein the portion other than the outer peripheral surface absorbs hydrogen peroxide. A flexible tube for an endoscope, comprising a substance to be obtained. 2. A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin coated on the outer circumference of the core material, the flexible tube being mainly composed of cellulose in a portion other than the outer peripheral surface thereof. A flexible tube for an endoscope, which has a substance. 3. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 2, which contains 0.05 to 65 mg of celluloses per cm in length. 4. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the celluloses are derived from pulp. 5. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the substance is present inside the outer skin. 6. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the substance is present in a state of being dispersed in the material of the outer cover. 7. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the outer cover has a portion formed of a laminated body of a plurality of layers, and the substance is present between the layers. 8. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the substance is in the form of powder, particles or fibers. 9. An endoscope comprising the flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 1. 10. A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin coated on the outer periphery of the core material, and a length inserted into the inner cavity of the flexible tube for the endoscope. An endoscope including a scale member and a lubricant disposed in the lumen of the endoscope flexible tube, wherein the lumen of the endoscope flexible tube absorbs hydrogen peroxide. An endoscope having a substance to be obtained. 11. A flexible tube for an endoscope having a core material having a hollow portion and an outer skin coated on the outer periphery of the core material, and a length inserted into an inner cavity of the flexible tube for the endoscope. An endoscope comprising a scale member and a lubricant disposed in the lumen of the endoscope flexible tube, wherein the lumen of the endoscope flexible tube is mainly composed of celluloses. An endoscope characterized by having a substance. 12. The endoscope according to claim 11, wherein the flexible tube for an endoscope contains 0.05 to 65 mg of celluloses per 1 cm in length. 13. The flexible tube for an endoscope according to claim 11, wherein the cellulose is derived from pulp. 14. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the substance is present together with the lubricant. 15. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the substance is in the form of powder, particles or fibers. 16. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the lubricant contains molybdenum disulfide.