JP5515008B2 - Double balloon endoscope device with self-propulsion function by fluid - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a double-balloon endoscope apparatus that does not use an outer cylinder having a self-propelling function by a fluid, and more specifically, by a fluid that can be easily inserted into the digestive tract and has less pain for a subject. The present invention relates to a double balloon endoscope apparatus that does not use an outer cylinder having a self-propelling function.

  Endoscopes are medical devices that are primarily intended for observing the inside of the human body. Currently, various devices for endoscopic procedures that perform direct treatment or sample collection under endoscopic observation are used. Those equipped are also developed and put to practical use. Endoscopes are roughly classified into rigid, soft, and capsule types depending on the structure. Especially when observing the digestive tract such as the large intestine and small intestine, flexible endoscopes that can be used not only for diagnosis but also for treatment are the mainstream. It has become.

  A general endoscope (flexible endoscope) device is a distal end side of a tube made of a flexible material (distal end side viewed from the endoscope operation unit side. Hereinafter, it is expressed as “distal end side”. In addition, the endoscope operation unit side is expressed as “proximal end side.”) An optical system for observation, an ultrasonic sensor, and the like are attached to the tube, and a light source, detector wiring, It has a structure through which cables for operation of various treatment tools for carrying out endoscopic treatment are passed, and it is inserted into the digestive tract orally, nasally or transanally, and introduced to the target location Then, observation or various treatments are performed. Among the digestive tract, the small intestine is far from the mouth and anus, and because it is bent in a complicated manner, the frictional force of the endoscopic device increases. However, it was difficult to observe. In addition, for example, when performing colonoscopy using a colonoscopy device, depending on the skill of the operator of the colonoscopy, the colonoscopy device to the deep colon in approximately 10% of cases is used. There are cases where insertion is difficult.

The reason is
(A) Since the pushing force is applied to the soft endoscope device, the endoscope device is bent and no force is applied to the distal end side.
(A) Since the endoscope apparatus is operated by grasping the endoscope operation unit at hand, the force application point is on the hand side of the endoscope apparatus, so that the distal end of the flexible endoscope apparatus No force on the side,
(C) The frictional force between the endoscope device and the digestive tract is large,
Etc.

  For example, FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the endoscope device is inserted transanally, but since the sigmoid colon is greatly bent, the endoscope is greatly bent at the position indicated by the arrow. The state where it has fallen is shown schematically. In this state, it can be seen that even if the sigmoid colon is pushed more strongly, only the sigmoid colon is excessively stretched, and almost no force is transmitted in the direction of advancing the distal end side of the endoscope apparatus.

  In order to solve the problems of such a conventional endoscope apparatus, an endoscope apparatus that enables observation or treatment of the deep part of the small intestine, collectively called a balloon endoscope, has been put into practical use. The balloon endoscope is provided with a balloon on the distal end side of the endoscope apparatus, and is called a single balloon type or a double balloon type depending on the number of balloons provided. By appropriately inflating the balloon during the insertion operation, the outer tube portion and the inner wall of the digestive tract can be fixed by a frictional force.

  For example, in the following Patent Document 1, an endoscope main body having a body fixing balloon attached to the outer periphery on the distal end side, a tube fixing balloon attached to the outer periphery on the distal end side, and the endoscope main body inserted therethrough. Each having a sliding tube for guiding the insertion of the endoscope main body, and a pump device for supplying air to each balloon. Each pump device measures the pressure of air in each balloon to measure the pressure in each balloon. An invention of a double balloon endoscope having a control means for controlling pressure is disclosed.

  As shown in FIG. 9, a double balloon endoscope 50 disclosed in the following Patent Document 1 includes an endoscope main body 51 and a sliding tube 52 as an outer cylinder through which the endoscope main body 51 is inserted. A body fixing balloon 53 and a tube fixing balloon 54 are provided on the distal end side. The double balloon endoscope 50 is first inserted into the digestive tract with the main body fixing balloon 53 and the tube fixing balloon 54 deflated (FIG. 9A). It becomes difficult to make.

  Therefore, the tube fixing balloon 54 is inflated to fix the sliding tube 52 to the digestive tract wall, and then the endoscope main body 51 is advanced (FIG. 9B), and the main body fixing balloon 53 is inflated to the endoscope main body. Is fixed to the digestive tract, and the operation of advancing the distal end of the sliding tube 52 to the vicinity of the distal end of the endoscope main body 51 (FIG. 9C) is repeated to advance insertion into the deep part. It is something that can be done.

For example, when inserting into the deep small intestine, it is possible to insert deeper than before by repeating the operations (a) to (f) described below. That is,
(A) The endoscope main body 51 is inserted in a conventional manner (pressed from the vicinity of the insertion portion).
(B) When it cannot be pushed any further, the main body fixing balloon 53 attached to the distal end side of the endoscope main body 51 is inflated to fix the endoscope main body 51 (FIG. 9C).
(C) In a state where the endoscope main body 51 is fixed, the sliding tube 52 is pushed in from the vicinity of the insertion portion using the endoscope main body as a guide, so that the distal end side of the sliding tube 52 is connected to the main body fixing balloon 53. Advance to position (arrow 9C).
(D) The tube fixing balloon 54 attached to the distal end side of the sliding tube 52 is inflated to fix the sliding tube 52 (FIG. 9B).
(E) When the endoscope main body 51 and the sliding tube 52 are pulled back in a state where the sliding tube 52 is fixed, the small intestine on the near side from the fixed portion contracts, and the small intestine on the back side extends from the fixed portion.
(F) Since the small intestine on the back side from the fixed portion is extended, when the main body fixing balloon 53 is deflated, the endoscope main body 51 can be pushed further into the back (arrow in FIG. 9B).

  According to the double balloon type endoscope device disclosed in the following Patent Document 1, it is easier to insert into the small intestine than the conventional endoscope device. However, even with this double balloon type endoscope device, it becomes difficult to advance the endoscope body as it is inserted into the back of the small intestine. This is because the endoscope device and the sliding tube are only hard rubber, so it is easy to bend, and the insertion method of the endoscope device and the sliding tube is a force from the vicinity of the insertion portion that is the mouth or anus of the subject. This is due to being pushed in.

  That is, the friction increases as the endoscope device is inserted into the back of the small intestine, and the endoscope device and the sliding tube are easily bent. Even if the endoscope device is pushed in from the vicinity of the insertion portion, the endoscope device This is because the force is hardly transmitted in the direction of propulsion by the distal end side. Moreover, since the sliding tube as an outer cylinder surrounding the outer periphery of the endoscope main body has an outer diameter larger than that of the endoscope main body, the friction at the time of insertion becomes larger particularly when the anal sphincter contracts or the intestinal peristalsis contracts. Furthermore, the conventional balloon endoscope is painful for the patient because the small intestine is linearized by pulling the endoscope while the balloon of the outer cylinder is expanded.

  In order to solve such a problem, from the viewpoint that the endoscope apparatus or the like is not pushed from the vicinity of the insertion portion, but a force may be applied so as to push it from the distal end side of the outer cylinder. The inventors have already filed a patent application for the invention of the “thread pulling propulsion type endoscope device” as Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-027020 (hereinafter referred to as “prior application”). The invention of the “thread pulling propulsion type endoscope device” according to this prior application is a double balloon type endoscope device including an endoscope main body and a sliding tube, but the endoscope device and the sliding tube are provided from the proximal end side. By manipulating the thread attached to the endoscope device, a force is applied to push the endoscope device from the distal end side of the sliding tube, and the sliding tube is pulled from the distal end side of the endoscope device. The power is added to. According to the present invention, there is an excellent effect that the endoscope apparatus and the sliding tube can be easily pushed into the deep digestive tract without being influenced by the ease of bending of the endoscope apparatus or the like.

  On the other hand, the double balloon endoscope apparatus disclosed in the following Patent Document 1 and the above-mentioned prior application each include a sliding tube as an outer cylinder. The sliding tube as the outer cylinder has a larger diameter than the endoscope body, so friction is large, and not only when pushing from the vicinity of the insertion part but also when pulling up from the distal end side, a large force is required It becomes. Endoscopic automatic insertion that can easily push the endoscope device into the deep digestive tract using a single balloon attached to the endoscope device without using such a sliding tube as an outer cylinder The invention of the machine is disclosed in Patent Document 2 below.

  As shown in FIG. 10, an automatic endoscope insertion machine 60 disclosed in the following Patent Document 2 is a floating ring type front and rear movable balloon that is movable outside the endoscope main body 61 in the longitudinal direction. 62 is connected by projecting radially the balloon connecting cylinder 65 joined to the front / rear drive body 64 from the long-diameter hole 63 on the side surface of the endoscope body 61, and the longitudinal axis of the endoscope body 61 is the central axis. The endoscope main body 61 can be advanced by driving 64 forward and backward in both axial directions by the power transmitted by the front / rear drive body drive center shaft body 66.

JP 2002-301019 A JP 2009-018146 A

  According to the automatic endoscope insertion machine 60 disclosed in Patent Document 2, there is only one movable front and rear balloon 62, and it is distal to the endoscope main body 61 without using a sliding tube. Since force can be applied so as to push out on the end side, the endoscope main body 61 can be advanced to the back of the digestive tract. However, the automatic endoscope insertion machine 60 described in Patent Document 2 needs to insert the front / rear drive body 64 and the balloon connecting cylinder 65 into the endoscope main body 61, so that it is normally used conventionally. For example, it cannot be applied in the form of an attachment to the endoscope apparatus that is used, and it is necessary to insert the front-rear drive body drive center shaft body 66 into the endoscope body 61. Since it is difficult to bend the distal end side of the endoscope main body 61, there is a problem that it is difficult to insert the endoscope body 61 into the tortuous digestive tract.

  In addition, the automatic endoscope insertion machine 60 disclosed in Patent Document 2 includes a longitudinal driving body 64 and a balloon connecting cylinder 65 inserted into the endoscope main body 61 in the longitudinal direction of the endoscope main body 61. Therefore, there is also a problem that it is difficult to form at least insertion holes and the like of various treatment tools through the side of the front / rear drive body 64 to the distal end side of the endoscope main body 61.

  The present inventors can be applied to a conventional endoscope apparatus, have a simple configuration, and do not use an outer cylinder such as a sliding tube, and can be used from the distal end side of the endoscope apparatus. Various studies have been made on a configuration that can apply a force for pushing the distal end of the endoscope apparatus and bend the distal end side from the proximal end side of the endoscope apparatus. As a result, the present inventors have solved the problem by disposing a fixed balloon and a movable balloon on the outer periphery of the distal end side of the endoscope apparatus and connecting both balloons with a plurality of small-diameter bellows-like balloons. As a result, the present invention has been completed.

  That is, the present invention can be applied to a conventional endoscope apparatus, and does not use an outer cylinder such as a sliding tube, and can easily move the distal end side of the endoscope apparatus even when inserted into the deep digestive tract. It is an object of the present invention to provide a double balloon type endoscope apparatus that can be bent and has a self-propelling function by a fluid that can easily advance the endoscope apparatus.

In order to solve the above-mentioned object, a double-balloon endoscope device having a self-propulsion function using a fluid according to the present invention is a self-propelled device comprising a first balloon and a second balloon on the outer surface of an endoscope body. In the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a propulsion function,
The first balloon is fixed to an outer surface on a distal end side of the endoscope body;
The second balloon is arranged to be slidable with respect to the outer surface of the endoscope body on the proximal end side of the endoscope body from the first balloon,
On the outer surface side of the endoscope body,
A plurality of independently operable pluralities, one end being fixed to the distal end side of the endoscope body and proximal to the first balloon, and the other end being fixed to the second balloon A first bellows-like balloon of
A plurality of independently operable second ends having one end fixed to the second balloon and the other end fixed to the outer surface of the endoscope body closer to the proximal end than the second balloon. A bellows-like balloon is placed,
At least one of the inside of the endoscope body and the outer surface side includes the inside of the first balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the second balloon, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. In addition, a fluid flow path for introducing and sucking a fluid independently is formed.

  In the double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the first balloon is fixed to the outer surface on the distal end side of the endoscope body, and the second balloon is the first balloon The endoscope is disposed closer to the proximal end side of the endoscope body than the balloon so as to be slidable with respect to the outer surface of the endoscope body. One end of the endoscope body is fixed to the distal end side of the endoscope main body and the proximal end side of the first balloon, and the other end is fixed to the second balloon. A plurality of independently operable first bellows-like balloons, one end fixed to the second balloon, and the other end proximal to the second balloon. A plurality of independently operable second bellows-like balloons fixed to the outer surface of the main body are arranged.

  The double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function using the fluid according to the present invention is first inflated by sucking the fluid from the first balloon, for example, and then introducing the fluid into the second balloon. To fix to the digestive tract wall. In this state, when the fluid is uniformly introduced and inflated into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons linearly extend to the distal end side with the second balloon as a fulcrum. Therefore, it is possible to apply a force for pushing the second balloon linearly toward the distal end side with respect to the endoscope body as a fulcrum. At this time, when the fluid is evenly sucked and deflated from the plurality of second bellows-like balloons in synchronism with each other, the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are linearly arranged on the distal end side with the second balloon as a fulcrum. Since it is going to shrink, the force which draws the proximal end side of several 2nd bellows-like balloons to the 2nd balloon side will be added, As a result, with the 2nd balloon as a fulcrum, the endoscope main body It can project to the more distal end side.

  Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the fluid is sucked from the first balloon to be deflated, and the fluid is introduced into the second balloon to be inflated. By simultaneously introducing the uniform fluid into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and sucking the uniform fluid from the plurality of second bellows-like balloons while being fixed to the digestive tract wall by The endoscope body can be easily protruded from the distal end and pushed into the digestive tract. Moreover, since the force for driving the endoscope body is given by the fluid sucked from the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the fluid introduced into the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, It can be pushed into the gastrointestinal tract with a greater force than pushing the double-balloon endoscope body from the operation part side of the mirror body.

  Thereafter, the fluid is introduced into the first balloon and inflated to fix it to the digestive tract wall, and the fluid is sucked from the second balloon to be deflated. In this state, when fluid is evenly sucked and deflated from the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons can draw the second balloon toward the first balloon. At this time, if the fluid is evenly inflated into the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, the plurality of second bellows-like balloons can exert a force for pushing the second balloon toward the first balloon. it can.

  Therefore, according to the double-balloon endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the fluid is introduced into the first balloon and inflated to be fixed to the digestive tract wall, and the fluid from the second balloon Are sucked and deflated, and the second fluid is simultaneously sucked from the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and introduced into the plurality of second bellows-like balloons simultaneously. The balloon can be moved to the distal end side of the endoscope body. As the fluid, not only a gas such as air or nitrogen, but also a liquid such as water or oil can be used, but air is preferable in consideration of availability and control.

  Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the present invention, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are the endoscope body and the second balloon. Therefore, it is possible to easily apply a pushing force to the distal end side of the endoscope body by repeating the above-described operation alternately. That is, in the past, a doctor held the endoscope body by hand and pushed it into the digestive tract. However, in the present invention, a plurality of first bellows-like balloons and a plurality of first bellows-like balloons are inserted at the distal end of the endoscope body. Since it is a self-propelled system equipped with a propulsive force generating device consisting of 2 bellows-like balloons, it is easier to insert the endoscope body into the digestive tract than the conventional double balloon type endoscope device Become.

  Furthermore, in the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the present invention, since the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are formed in a bellows-like manner, When the fluid is introduced into the first bellows-like balloon and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, the fluid can be easily stretched in the length direction without greatly expanding in the radial direction. Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, by repeating the operation of introducing the fluid into the endoscope main body and the propulsion balloon of the second balloon and the operation of aspiration. Therefore, the endoscope body can be inserted into the back of the digestive tract more smoothly with less failure.

  If this type of endoscope is compared to a 10-car train, the last 10th car is a diesel locomotive with an engine on it, and the passenger train is pushed from the rear. This is a mechanism that trains are easily distorted and derailed around the fifth car. On the other hand, the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention can be regarded as a state in which the leading vehicle is a diesel locomotive and the passenger seat train is advanced, compared with the conventional method. Thus, there is an effect that the distortion of the vehicle train is reduced (the deflection of the endoscope is reduced).

  Furthermore, because the endoscope (train) does not hit the large intestine wall (tunnel wall) by installing a propulsive force generator at the tip of the endoscope, it can prevent overextension of the intestinal tract and less painful inspection. At the same time, the risk of perforation that breaks the wall of the large intestine can be avoided and the examination can be performed safely. In addition, if the pain and anxiety about the examination of the subject are reduced, it is expected that the consultation rate of the colorectal cancer test will increase, and the possibility of reducing the number of deaths due to colorectal cancer is also expected.

  In the double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the fluid is introduced “equally” with respect to the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. If the suction is performed, the distal end side of the endoscope body can be linearly pushed out. However, if the fluid is introduced or suctioned non-uniformly, the distal end side of the endoscope body is moved. Extrusion can be performed in a desired bent state. That is, in the double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the present invention, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons independently suck and introduce fluid. Thus, the plurality of bellows-like balloons can independently control their internal pressures.

  Therefore, an endoscope is obtained by capturing and introducing fluid such that the internal pressure of each of the plurality of bellows-like balloons is vectorized and the bellows-like balloon side in the direction to be bent is lower in pressure than the other bellow-like balloons. Extrusion can be performed with the distal end side of the main body bent in a desired direction, and can be easily inserted into a deeper digestive tract. At this time, both the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons suck and fluid so that the bellows-like balloon side in the direction to be bent is lower than the other bellow-like balloon side. When introduced, the distal end side of the endoscope body can be bent more smoothly in a desired direction.

  A fluid flow path for introducing and sucking fluid into the first balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the second balloon, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is provided in the endoscope body. It may be formed, or a separate fluid channel may be formed on the outer surface side of the endoscope body. In particular, the first balloon, the second balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, and the fluid flow paths for independently introducing and sucking fluid into the inside of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are internally viewed. If it is arranged on the outer surface side of the mirror main body, the self-propelling function by the fluid of the present invention can be easily achieved by using the conventional endoscope main body and making it an attachment type without requiring any processing inside. It becomes possible to produce a double balloon type endoscope apparatus having the above.

  In the double balloon endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the first balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the second balloon, and the plurality of second balloons A plurality of bellows-like balloons are formed in series in this order, and at least one of the inner and outer surface sides of the endoscope main body has all of the first balloons and the plurality of first balloons. A fluid flow path for independently introducing and sucking fluid may be formed in each of the bellows-like balloon, the second balloon, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons.

  With such a configuration, there are a plurality of first balloons fixed to the endoscope body and a plurality of second balloons slidably arranged on the surface of the endoscope body. Is secured. Further, when the distal end side of the endoscope body is bent, the bending degree of bending can be finely controlled in units of short lengths.

  In the double-balloon endoscope apparatus of the present invention, a third balloon is located closer to the proximal end side than the plurality of second bellows-like balloons located on the most proximal end side. It is preferably fixed to the outer surface of the main body.

  According to the double-balloon type endoscope apparatus of the present invention, the first fixed to the outer surface of the endoscope body closer to the proximal end side than the plurality of second bellows-like balloons located on the most proximal end side. Since the third balloon is arranged, the endoscope main body can be firmly fixed to the digestive tract wall by the third balloon and can be bent into an accurate shape.

  In the double-balloon endoscope device having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the present invention, each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or each of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is a hollow cylindrical body. It is divided into a plurality of chambers by at least one partition wall formed in the above, and an opening is formed in the partition wall.

  A plurality of first bellows-like balloons or a plurality of first bellows-like balloons or a plurality of first bellows-like balloons or a plurality of first bellows-like balloons or a plurality of first bellows-like balloons or a plurality of first bellows-like balloons. When the fluid is introduced into the second bellows-like balloon, the radial expansion is further suppressed. Further, introduction of fluid into the plurality of chambers or suction of fluid from the plurality of chambers can be ensured by openings formed in the partition walls. Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the operation for introducing and sucking the fluid into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. By repeating the above, it becomes possible to insert the endoscope body into the back of the digestive tract in a state where the endoscope body is appropriately bent.

  In the double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or each of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is provided with a coil spring. Each of the coil springs has one end on the distal end side of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons and the other end on the plurality of first bellows. It is preferable to be fixed to the proximal end side of the like balloon or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons.

  When a coil spring is inserted into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, the compression force or expansion / contraction force of the coil spring can be used. Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, a plurality of first bellows-like balloons or a plurality of second balloons for propelling the endoscope device and the second balloon. The degree of freedom in setting the pressure when introducing the fluid into the bellows-like balloon or the pressure when sucking the fluid is increased. In the double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, such a configuration is adopted for one or both of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. can do.

  In the double balloon endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the coil spring is integrated with the inner walls of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. It is preferable that

  When the coil spring is integrated with the inner walls of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, the fluid is contained in the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. Swelling in the radial direction when introducing is further suppressed. Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention, the operation for introducing and sucking the fluid into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. By repeating the above, it becomes possible to insert the endoscope body into the back of the digestive tract in a state where the endoscope body is appropriately bent.

  In the double-balloon endoscope device having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the present invention, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are respectively three or four. It is preferable to become.

  In the double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the present invention, if there are at least two of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, the endoscope The mirror body can be pushed out and bent. However, when there are two each of the plurality of first accordion-like balloons and the plurality of second accordion-like balloons, it is necessary to apply a rotation operation to the endoscope body when bending in a desired direction. May occur. On the other hand, when the number of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the number of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are three or more, respectively, it is bent in a desired direction without giving a rotation operation to the endoscope body. Can be made.

  However, if the number of the first bellows-like balloons and the number of the second bellows-like balloons are too many, it is not preferable because of an increase in the outer diameter of the endoscope apparatus and a complicated structure. The following is preferable. When the number of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is three or four, the outer diameter of the double balloon endoscope device having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the present invention is too small. In addition to being enlarged, the endoscope body can be bent in a desired direction as well as being pushed out. In order to cause each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons to introduce or suck a desired fluid, a double balloon type having a self-propulsion function using the fluid of the present invention. By providing switch means such as a pump or joystick-like operation means on the operation unit side of the endoscope apparatus, it can be easily controlled manually by an operator.

  In addition, the double balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function using the fluid of the present invention may include a video signal transmission unit that wirelessly transmits a video signal obtained by the imaging unit. In that case, the endoscope main body has a smaller diameter, and the endoscope main body can be more smoothly inserted into the back of the digestive tract. In addition, if the power source for the light source is a battery or wireless power transmission, an endoscope apparatus with a further reduced diameter can be obtained.

FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a double-balloon endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by a fluid according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view in an assembled state. FIG. 2A is a perspective view showing a state where the endoscope apparatus is pushed out in the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating the second balloon similarly to the first balloon. It is a perspective view of the state pulled near. It is a perspective view of the state where the endoscope apparatus was bent from the state of FIG. 2B. 4A is a perspective view of a double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by a fluid according to the first modification and FIG. 4B being a second modification, respectively. FIG. 5A is a perspective view showing a state in which the endoscope apparatus is pushed out in the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 5B similarly shows the second balloon as the first balloon. It is a perspective view of the state pulled near. It is a perspective view of the state where the endoscope apparatus was bent from the state of FIG. 5B. It is a perspective view of the double balloon type endoscope apparatus which has a self-propulsion function of modification 3. It is a schematic diagram which shows the insertion state of the conventional endoscope apparatus. It is a schematic diagram explaining the conventional double balloon type | mold endoscope apparatus. It is a schematic diagram explaining the endoscope automatic insertion machine using the conventional single balloon.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments shown below are for explaining an example for embodying the technical idea of the present invention, and are not intended to specify the present invention in these embodiments. The invention is equally applicable to other embodiments within the scope of the claims. In addition, in each drawing used for the description in this specification, each member is displayed with a different scale so that each member has a size that can be recognized on the drawing. Are not displayed in proportion to the dimensions of the above, and there are parts that are not described for parts that are not necessary for understanding the present invention.

[First Embodiment]
First, a schematic configuration of a double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propelling function by a fluid according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by a fluid of the first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view in an assembled state. FIG. 2A is a perspective view showing a state where the endoscope apparatus is pushed out in the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating the second balloon similarly to the first balloon. It is a perspective view of the state pulled near. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a state where the endoscope apparatus is bent from the state of FIG. 2B. As the “fluid”, not only a gas such as air or nitrogen but also a liquid such as water or oil can be used, but in the following, these are simply expressed as “fluid” without distinction.

  A double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function using a fluid according to the first embodiment includes an endoscope body 11. The endoscope main body 11 is a large intestine endoscope that has been conventionally used, for example, and is provided with an optical system (not shown) such as an imaging means and a light source on the distal end side, and various types inside. A forceps hole (not shown) or the like into which the treatment tool is inserted is formed. A first balloon 12 is fixed to the distal end side of the endoscope body 11. The first balloon 12 is a cylindrical balloon having a donut-like support, and is a fluid flow path (not shown) formed in the endoscope body 11 from the endoscope operation unit (not shown) side, for example. Then, the fluid can be inflated or deflated by introducing or sucking a predetermined fluid.

In the endoscope body 11, the second balloon 13 slides in the longitudinal direction of the endoscope body 11 with respect to the outer surface of the endoscope body 11 on the proximal end side of the first balloon 12. Arranged to be possible. The second balloon 13 is also a balloon having a cylindrical support inside, for example by introducing or sucking the predetermined fluid from the endoscope operating section side through the fluid passage 13 _1, Fusarium or inflated You can do it.

A plurality of, here, three, first bellows-like balloons 14 a to 14 c, each of which has one end on the distal end side of the endoscope body 11, and is more than the first balloon 12. The proximal end is fixed, and the other end is fixed to the second balloon 13. 2 and 3, the portion corresponding to 14c is omitted from the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c. These first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c are respectively provided with a predetermined fluid from the endoscope operation unit side through fluid flow paths 14a _{1 to} 14c ₁ (the fluid flow path 14c ₁ is not shown; the same applies hereinafter). By introducing or aspirating, it can be inflated or deflated independently.

  In addition, a plurality of, here three, second bellows-like balloons 15 a to 15 c are fixed to the second balloon 13 at one end and the other end is closer to the second balloon 13. It is fixed to the outer surface of the endoscope body 11 on the distal end side. 2 and 3, the portion corresponding to 15c is omitted from the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c. Each of these second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c also introduces or sucks a predetermined fluid from the endoscope operation section side through a fluid flow path (not shown) formed in the endoscope body 11, for example. Can be inflated and deflated independently.

  In order to cause each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c to introduce or suck a desired fluid, the fluid according to the first embodiment is used. A plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and a plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c are provided by providing a pump switch and a joystick-like operation means (not shown) on the operation unit side of the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propelling function. If the pressure of the fluid introduced or sucked into each of the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c is automatically controlled, it can be easily manually controlled by the operator. Since the configuration for automatically controlling the fluid to be introduced or sucked into each part by such a pump switch or a joystick-like operation means is well known, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  In addition, here, as the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, those having a bellows-like crease as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B are used. In the fully extended state by introducing the fluid into the inside, it becomes a long cylindrical shape, and is folded in the state in which the fluid is discharged from the inside, like the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c in FIG. 1A. It becomes a short cylindrical shape.

  In this way, when the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are formed in a bellows shape, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c are formed. When the fluid is introduced into the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, the fluid can be easily stretched in the length direction without greatly expanding in the radial direction. The schematic configuration of the double balloon endoscope device having the self-propelling function by the fluid according to the first embodiment assembled as described above is as shown in FIG. 1B. In FIG. 1B, the first bellows-like balloon 14c and the second bellows-like balloon 15c are not shown (the same applies to other drawings hereinafter). In this case, in order to prevent the digestive tract mucous membrane from being pinched when the first bellows-like balloon 14c and the second bellows-like balloon 15c are folded along the folds, the outer periphery is stretchable (longitudinal direction). May be wrapped with a fiber or rubber / latex membrane).

  Next, a specific operation method of the double balloon endoscope apparatus 10A according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the following drawings, all fluid flow paths are the same as those shown in FIG. First, the double balloon endoscope device 10A according to the first embodiment is inserted to the extent that it can be inserted into the digestive tract with the first balloon 12 and the second balloon 13 deflated. At this time, the state of the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c is arbitrary, but in order to prevent a portion having a partially thick outer diameter from occurring. The first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are preferably made to be in the same stretched state.

  When it becomes difficult to insert the double balloon endoscope device 10A of the first embodiment into the digestive tract, first, a fluid is introduced into the first balloon 12, and the first balloon 12 is inflated and fixed to the digestive tract wall. To do. Next, the inside of the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c is uniformly brought into a negative pressure state, and the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are evenly brought into a positive pressure state, whereby the second balloon 13 is moved to the first state. The balloon 12 is drawn. Therefore, a fluid is introduced into the second balloon 13 to fix the second balloon 13 to the digestive tract wall. Next, the fluid in the first balloon 12 is sucked, and conversely, the fluid is introduced into the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c to be in a positive pressure state to be in a stretched state, and the second The endoscope body 11 with the second balloon 13 as a fulcrum by uniformly sucking fluid from the bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c to make the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c evenly in a negative pressure state. Is inserted into the deep part of the digestive tract.

  When the extension length of the endoscope body 11 is insufficient, the second balloon 13 or the first balloon 12 is inflated and fixed to the digestive tract wall in the same manner as in the conventional double balloon endoscope. The length of the digestive tract can be shortened by pulling the endoscope body 11.

  FIG. 2A shows a state when the distal end of the endoscope body 11 has advanced to the deep part of the digestive tract using the second balloon 13 as a fulcrum. As described above, according to the double balloon endoscope device 10A of the first embodiment, the force for pushing the endoscope body 11 into the digestive tract when the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c are evenly extended. Not only can it be applied, but also the force to push the endoscope body 11 into the digestive tract can be applied by evenly deflating the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c. The endoscope main body 11 can be pushed into the digestive tract with a greater force than the double balloon endoscope main body 11 is pushed from the operation part side of the balloon endoscope main body 11.

  Next, the fluid is introduced into the first balloon 12, the first balloon 12 is inflated and fixed to the digestive tract wall, and the second balloon 13 is deflated by sucking the fluid from the second balloon 13. After that, when the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c are deflated by sucking the fluid uniformly from the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c, the second balloon 13 is drawn toward the first balloon 12 side. It is done. At the same time, when the fluid is uniformly introduced into the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c and the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are stretched, the proximal ends of the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are Since it is fixed to the outer wall side of the endoscope body 11, the second balloon 13 is pushed out to the first balloon 12 side.

  The state at this time is shown in FIG. 2B. As described above, according to the double balloon endoscope device 10A of the first embodiment, when the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c are uniformly deflated, the second balloon 13 is changed to the first balloon. Not only can the force be pulled toward the 12 side, but also the force to push the second balloon 13 toward the first balloon 12 side can be imparted by evenly extending the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c. Therefore, the second balloon 13 can be easily moved along the outer peripheral surface of the endoscope main body 11.

  Thereafter, the state shown in FIG. 2A and the state shown in FIG. 2B are sequentially repeated, so that the double-balloon endoscope apparatus 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment can be easily moved to the back of the digestive tract. Can be inserted into.

  In the above-described example, the example in which the fluid is uniformly introduced and sucked into each of the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c is shown. In such fluid introduction and suction operations, the endoscope body 11 is pushed out linearly. However, since the digestive tract is bent, it is necessary to bend and insert the endoscope body 11 when inserting the endoscope body 11. In a conventional endoscope apparatus, an angle operation function for bending the distal end side of the endoscope apparatus is provided by operating a wire arranged inside the endoscope apparatus with an operation unit.

  In contrast, in the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c to the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are “ When the fluid is introduced or sucked unevenly, an angle operation function can be imparted to the distal end side of the endoscope body 11, and extrusion can be performed in a bent state in a desired direction. It becomes like this. For example, in the state shown in FIG. 2B, among the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, only one second bellows-like balloon 15b is partially sucked and slightly deflated, and the other two The two bellows-like balloons 15a and 15b are similarly stretched, and only one second bellows-like balloon 15b of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c is greatly sucked, and the other two first When the bellows-like balloons 14a and 14c are partially stretched in the same manner, the endoscope body 11 extends from the vicinity of the second balloon 13 to the first balloon 12 as shown in FIG. The accordion-like balloon 15b side and the first accordion-like balloon 14b side are bent gently.

  Such a bent state of the endoscope main body 11 is a vector in which the internal pressures of the plurality of first accordion-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second accordion-like balloons 15a to 15c are captured in a vector direction. By sucking and introducing the fluid such that the bellows-like balloon side is at a lower pressure than the other bellows-like balloon side, the endoscope apparatus can be bent on the low-pressure side. The bending state of the endoscope main body 11 is performed between the first balloon 12 and the second balloon 13 by non-uniformly introducing or sucking fluid to the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c. The plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c can be bent from the second balloon 13 by unevenly introducing or sucking fluid to the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c. It becomes possible to bend between 15 c and the fixed part of the endoscope main body 11. Therefore, according to the double balloon type endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, the extrusion is performed in a state where the distal end side of the endoscope body 11 is bent in a desired direction. And can be easily inserted into the deeper digestive tract.

  In the double balloon endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the second bellows when the endoscope body 11 is bent. The balloons 15a to 15c and the bent endoscope body 11 may be configured to suppress a deviation. As such a configuration, for example, a ring body that is slidable in the longitudinal direction of the endoscope main body 11 with respect to the outer surface of the endoscope main body 11 is arranged at an intermediate position of the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c. This can be easily realized by appropriately using a method such as fixing each of the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c to an intermediate position.

  When the endoscope main body 11 is bent by introducing or sucking fluid non-uniformly to the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c or the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, the first bellows Depending on the length of the balloons 14a to 14c or the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c and the extent to which they are bent, the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c to the second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are bent endoscopes. The deviation from the curvature of the main body 11 may cause a risk of increased friction with the digestive tract wall or being caught on the digestive tract wall, but this is suppressed by providing the above-described configuration. Can do.

  In the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, fluid is introduced into and sucked into the first balloon 11 and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c. Although the example which formed the fluid flow path for this in the endoscope main body 11 was shown, you may arrange | position these fluid flow paths along the outer peripheral side of the endoscope main body 11 separately. When such a configuration is adopted, the first balloon 12, the second balloon 13, and the like in the form of an attachment to the conventional endoscope apparatus without the need to process the inside of the conventional endoscope apparatus in particular. By attaching the first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, the double balloon endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment is manufactured. Will be able to.

  Further, in the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are as follows. Although an example using a bellows-like crease has been shown, it is also possible to use a coil spring disposed inside. Each of these coil springs has one end on the distal end side of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c to the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c and the other end on the plurality of first bellows-like balloons. What is necessary is just to make it fix to the proximal end side of 14a-14c thru | or several 2nd bellows-like balloons 15a-15c, respectively.

  Thus, when the coil spring is inserted into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, the compression force or the expansion / contraction force of the coil spring can be used. Therefore, the pressure when fluid is introduced into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c for propelling the endoscope body 11 and the second balloon 13. In addition, the degree of freedom in setting the pressure when aspirating the fluid is increased. In addition, a coil spring can be employ | adopted as either one of several 1st bellows-like balloons 14a-14c thru | or several 2nd bellows-like balloons 15a-15c, and can also employ | adopt both.

  Moreover, when arrange | positioning a coil spring in the inside of several 1st bellows-like balloons 14a-14c thru | or several 2nd bellows-like balloons 15a-15c, it is good to make it integrate with an internal wall. When coil springs are integrated with the inner walls of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons When the fluid is introduced into 15a to 15c, the swell in the radial direction is further suppressed. Therefore, according to the double balloon endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are provided. By repeating the operation of introducing the fluid and the operation of sucking, the endoscope body can be inserted into the back of the digestive tract more smoothly with the endoscope body bent appropriately.

  Further, in the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are as follows. In the above example, three are used, but two or four may be used. That is, if there are at least two of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, respectively, the pushing operation and the bending operation of the endoscope body 11 are performed. Can do. However, when there are two each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c, the endoscope body 11 can be bent when bent in a desired direction. It may be necessary to apply rotational motion. On the other hand, when the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are respectively three or more, a rotation operation is particularly applied to the endoscope body 11. At least, it can be bent in a desired direction.

  However, even if the number of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c is too large, the outer diameter of the double-balloon endoscope device 10A is increased or complicated. Since it causes an increase in cost, it is not preferable, and it is preferable to use 4 or less for each. When the number of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is three or four, the double-balloon endoscope device 10A can be used with respect to the endoscope body without having to be so thick. Thus, it is possible to bend in a desired direction as well as an extrusion operation.

  In the double-balloon endoscope apparatus 10A having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the first embodiment, an optical system is provided on the distal end side that has been conventionally used as the endoscope body 11. In addition, an example using a large intestine endoscope in which a forceps hole or the like into which various treatment tools are inserted is formed is shown. In this case, the endoscope main body 11 has a certain degree of waist, and therefore can have a length of 1 m30 cm to 3 m.

  The endoscope body 11 may be an endoscope that is not provided with an angle operation function using a wire and has no waist. In such a case, the endoscope main body 11 is not waistd and cannot be inserted by being pushed. Therefore, after insertion into the body cavity, all of the endoscope body 11 is performed only by introduction and suction of fluid. Therefore, it is preferable that the endoscope body 11 has a sufficient length, and it is considered that about 2 to 8 m is optimal. After completion of the examination, the endoscope can be removed by pulling out the endoscope body 11.

[Modification 1]
Next, a double-balloon endoscope apparatus 10B having a self-propulsion function with a fluid according to Modification 1 in which a part of the configuration of the double-balloon endoscope apparatus 10A having a self-propulsion function with a fluid according to the first embodiment is changed. Will be described with reference to FIG. 4A. The double balloon endoscope device 10B having a self-propulsion function with a fluid according to the first modification is the most proximal end side of the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function with a fluid according to the first embodiment. The third balloon 12a is fixed to the proximal end side of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c located. Note that the third balloon 12a also has a fluid flow path for introducing and sucking fluid into the interior of the endoscope body 11 or on the outer peripheral side, but is not shown in FIG. 4A. .

  According to the double balloon endoscope device 10B having a self-propulsion function using fluid according to the first modification, the same effect as that of the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function using fluid according to the first embodiment is obtained. Since the third balloon 12a can be inflated and fixed to the gastrointestinal tract wall, the endoscope body 11 can be more securely fixed to the gastrointestinal tract wall. When the mirror body 11 is bent, it can be bent into a more accurate shape.

[Modification 2]
Next, a double balloon endoscope device having a self-propulsion function with fluid according to Modification 2 in which a part of the configuration of the double balloon endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function with fluid according to the first embodiment is further changed. 10C will be described with reference to FIG. 4B. The double balloon type endoscope device 10C having a self-propulsion function with a fluid according to the second modification includes the first balloon 12 in the double balloon type endoscope device 10A having a self-propulsion function with a fluid according to the first embodiment. A plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14a to 14c, a second balloon 13, and a plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15a to 15c are formed in this order in series.

  That is, the double balloon endoscope device 10C having the self-propulsion function with the fluid according to the modified example 2 is similar to the double balloon endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function with the fluid according to the first embodiment. The balloon 12, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14 a to 14 c, the second balloon 13, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15 a to 15 c are not only disposed, but also proximal to the endoscope device 11. Another first balloon 12 ', another plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14d to 14f, another second balloon 13', and another plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15d to 15f are arranged on the end side. It has been done. Also in this case, as in the case of the double balloon endoscope device 10B having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the first modification, the proximal end side is located closer to the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15d to 15f. The third balloon 12 a may be fixed to the outer surface of the endoscope body 11.

  In the double balloon type endoscope device 10C having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second modification, another first balloon 12 ′, another type is provided on the inner or outer surface side of the endoscope body 11. Fluid flow paths for independently introducing and sucking fluid to the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 14d to 14f, another second balloon 13 ', and another plurality of second bellows-like balloons 15d to 15f, respectively. Although not shown in FIG. 4B, one other first bellows-like balloon 14 f and one other first bellows-like balloon 15 f are also not shown.

  According to the double balloon type endoscope device 10C having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the modified example 2 having such a configuration, the first balloons 12 and 12 ′ fixed to the endoscope body 11 and the endoscope Since there are a plurality of second balloons 13 and 13 'slidably arranged on the surface of the main body 11, the fixation to the digestive tract wall is ensured, and the distal end side of the endoscope main body 11 is fixed. In the case of bending, the bending degree of bending can be finely controlled in short length units.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a double balloon endoscope device 10D having a self-propulsion function using a fluid according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5A is a perspective view showing a state where the endoscope apparatus is pushed out in the double balloon type endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second embodiment, and FIG. It is a perspective view of the state pulled near to the balloon side. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a state where the endoscope apparatus is bent from the state of FIG. 5B. In the following, one first bellows-like balloon 16c and one second bellows-like balloon 17c are not shown.

  As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the double balloon endoscope apparatus 10D having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the second embodiment has a plurality of chambers by at least one partition wall 18 formed in a hollow cylindrical body. The first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c and the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c are used. The partition wall 18 is formed with an opening 19 so that fluid can be introduced or sucked into each chamber. With such a configuration, when the fluid is introduced into the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c and the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c, it does not swell greatly in the radial direction, and the first bellows The suction of fluid from the balloons 16 a to 16 c and the second bellows balloons 17 a to 17 c can be secured by the opening 19 formed in the partition wall 18.

  In the double balloon type endoscope device 10D having the self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the second embodiment, the operation is performed in the same manner as in the case of the double balloon type endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid according to the first embodiment. By doing so, the endoscope body 11 can be easily inserted into the digestive tract. That is, first, the double balloon endoscope device 10D having the self-propelling function by the fluid according to the second embodiment can be inserted into the digestive tract with the first balloon 12 and the second balloon 13 deflated. insert. When it becomes difficult to insert the double balloon endoscope device 10D having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second embodiment into the digestive tract, first, the fluid is introduced into the second balloon 13, and the second balloon 13 is Inflate and fix to the digestive tract wall.

  Next, fluid is uniformly introduced into the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c to bring the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c into a positive pressure state, and at the same time, equally from the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c. The second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c are brought into an extended state by sucking the fluid to uniformly put the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c in a negative pressure state, and the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c. The proximal end of 17c is pulled toward the second balloon 13 side.

  The state at this time is shown in FIG. 5A. Thus, according to the double balloon endoscope device 10D having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second embodiment, the endoscope body 11 can be used when the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c are uniformly extended. Since the force which pushes the endoscope body 11 into the digestive tract can be applied, the force to push the endoscope body 11 into the digestive tract can be imparted by evenly deflating the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c. As in the conventional example, the endoscope body 11 can be pushed into the digestive tract with a larger force than the double balloon endoscope body 11 is pushed from the operation portion side of the double balloon endoscope body 11.

  Next, the fluid is introduced into the first balloon 12, the first balloon 12 is inflated and fixed to the digestive tract wall, and the second balloon 13 is deflated by sucking the fluid from the second balloon 13. Thereafter, when the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c are in a deflated state by uniformly sucking fluid from the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c, the second balloon 13 is drawn toward the first balloon 12 side. It is done. At the same time, when the fluid is uniformly introduced into the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c and the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c are in the extended state, the proximal ends of the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c are Since it is fixed to the outer wall side of the endoscope body 11, the second balloon 13 is pushed out to the first balloon 12 side.

  The state at this time is shown in FIG. 5B. Thus, also in the double balloon type endoscope device 10D having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second embodiment, when the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c are uniformly deflated, the second balloon is used. In addition to applying a force that draws the first balloon 12 toward the first balloon 12, the second balloon 13 can be brought into the first balloon 12 by evenly extending the second bellows-like balloons 17 a to 17 c. Since the force pushed out to the side can be applied, the second balloon 13 can be easily moved along the outer peripheral surface of the endoscope main body 11.

  After that, the state shown in FIG. 5A and the state shown in FIG. 5B are sequentially repeated again, so that the double balloon endoscope device 10D having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second embodiment can be easily moved to the back of the digestive tract. Can be inserted into.

  In this case as well, as described in the first embodiment, the fluid is introduced or sucked “unevenly” to the first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c or the second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c. If it carries out, it will come to be able to extrude in the state where the distal end side of the endoscope main body 11 was bent in a desired manner. For example, in the state shown in FIG. 4B, if only one second bellows-like balloon 17 b among the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 17 a to 17 c is partially sucked and slightly deflated, it is shown in FIG. 5. As described above, the endoscope body 11 can be bent toward the second bellows-like balloon 17b at the second balloon 13 portion, and an angle operation function can be provided.

  Thus, also in the double balloon endoscope device 10D having the self-propelling function by the fluid of the second embodiment, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c. Endoscope device on the low pressure side by capturing and introducing fluid such that the internal pressure of each of the two is vectorized and the bellows-like balloon side in the direction to be bent is at a lower pressure than the other bellows-like balloon side So that the distal end side of the endoscope body 11 can be bent in a desired direction, and can be easily inserted into a deeper digestive tract. Become.

  Also, in the double balloon endoscope device 10D having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the second embodiment, similarly to the case of the double balloon endoscope device 10A having the self-propulsion function by the fluid of the first embodiment. The coil springs may be inserted into the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 16a to 16c and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c, and the coil springs are integrated with the inner wall. Also good. Furthermore, like the double balloon type endoscope device 10B having a self-propelling function by the fluid of the first modification, the surface of the endoscope body 11 on the proximal end side of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 17a to 17c. The third balloon may be fixed, and the first balloon 12 and the plurality of first bellows-like balloons 16a may be used as in the double balloon endoscope device 10C having the self-propelling function by the fluid of the first modification. -16c, the second balloon 13, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons 17a-17c may be in a state where a plurality of sets are formed in series in this order.

  In addition, as said embodiment, in FIGS. 1-6, "the balloon for fixation (12, 12 ', 12a, 13, 13') and the bellows-like balloon (14a-f, 15a-15f, 16a-16c, 17a- 17c) ”(in parentheses are the corresponding symbols of the embodiment), a mechanism that can be said to be a“ self-propelling unit group ”is disposed around the endoscope body 11 as a central axis. As shown in the figure. However, as described above, the present invention provides a self-propulsion function to the endoscope body by the self-propulsion unit group provided in the endoscope body, and the propulsion / bending function by the self-propulsion unit group is It is manifested regardless of the positional relationship with the endoscope body.

  That is, for the implementation of the present invention, it is not necessary to have such a positional relationship that the self-propulsion unit group is arranged around the endoscope main body 11 as shown in FIGS. For example, as a third modification, a self-propulsion unit group is bundled and provided in the endoscope main body 11 together like a double balloon type endoscope device 10E having a self-propulsion function by a fluid shown in FIG. The present invention can also be implemented in other embodiments.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the endoscope main body has been described as being representative of an endoscope apparatus in which a flexible mirror through which wiring for a light source and a detector is passed is provided with a self-propulsion unit group. Of course, the present invention can be implemented even with a flexible mirror including a video signal transmission unit that wirelessly transmits a video signal obtained by an imaging unit such as a CCD or a CMOS.

  In that case, compared to the case where video signals are transmitted by wire, wiring for signal transmission is not required, so the endoscope body can be made smaller in diameter and has a self-propelling function and a smaller diameter. An endoscope apparatus can be provided. In addition, if the power source for the light source is a battery or wireless power transmission using microwaves, the endoscope apparatus is further reduced in diameter.

10A to 10E: Double balloon type endoscope device having a self-propulsion function by fluid 11: Endoscope body 12, 12 ': First balloon 12a: Third balloon 13, 13': Second balloon 13 ₁ : fluid flow passage 14a to 14f: first bellows-like balloon 14a ₁ ～14C _1: fluid flow path 15a to 15f: second bellows-like balloon 16 a to 16 c: first bellows-like balloon 17a to 17c: second Bellows-like balloon 18: Septum 19: Opening

Claims (8)

In a double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by a fluid having a first balloon and a second balloon on the outer surface of an endoscope body,
The first balloon is fixed to an outer surface on a distal end side of the endoscope body;
The second balloon is arranged to be slidable with respect to the outer surface of the endoscope body on the proximal end side of the endoscope body from the first balloon,
On the outer surface side of the endoscope body,
A plurality of independently operable pluralities, one end being fixed to the distal end side of the endoscope body and proximal to the first balloon, and the other end being fixed to the second balloon A first bellows-like balloon of
A plurality of independently operable second ends having one end fixed to the second balloon and the other end fixed to the outer surface of the endoscope body closer to the proximal end than the second balloon. A bellows-like balloon is placed,
At least one of the inside of the endoscope body and the outer surface side includes the inside of the first balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the second balloon, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. A double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by a fluid, wherein a fluid flow path for introducing and sucking a fluid independently is formed.   The first balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the second balloon, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are formed in series in this order, and the endoscope At least one of the first balloon, the plurality of first bellows-like balloons, the second balloon, and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is provided on at least one of the inside and the outer surface side of the main body. The double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propulsion function by the fluid according to claim 1, wherein a fluid flow path for independently introducing and sucking fluid is formed in each.   The third balloon is fixed to the outer surface of the endoscope body on the proximal end side of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons located on the most proximal end side. Item 3. A double-balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propelling function by the fluid according to Item 1 or 2.   Each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or each of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons is partitioned into a plurality of chambers by at least one partition formed in a hollow cylindrical body. 4. A double balloon endoscope device having a self-propelling function by a fluid according to claim 1, wherein an opening is formed.   Each of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or each of the plurality of second bellows-like balloons has a coil spring disposed therein, and one end of each of the coil springs has the plurality of first bellows-like balloons. The balloon or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are fixed to the distal end side, and the other end is fixed to the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons to the proximal end side. 5. A double balloon endoscope device having a self-propelling function by a fluid according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   6. The self-propulsion function using fluid according to claim 5, wherein each of the coil springs is integrated with an inner wall of the plurality of first bellows-like balloons or the plurality of second bellows-like balloons. A double-balloon endoscope apparatus having   The plurality of first bellows-like balloons and the plurality of second bellows-like balloons are each composed of three or four, and the self-propelling function by fluid according to any one of claims 1 to 6 A double-balloon endoscope apparatus having   8. The endoscope body according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope body includes an imaging unit and a video signal transmission unit that transmits a video signal obtained by the imaging unit by wireless communication. 9. A double balloon endoscope apparatus having a self-propelling function by the fluid described above.