JPH11276606A - Laser radiating device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively irradiate the diseased part located at a deep part with laser beams while easily and surely preventing the damage of normal tissues. SOLUTION: A laser radiating device 1 is a side radiation type laser radiating device for irradiating the viable tissue with the laser beams having deep living body reachable property and has a long sheath 2, optical fiber 31 installed in a working lumen 21 of the sheath 2, a reflector 32, a beam splitter 34 and rod-shaped guide members 321 and 341. The reflector 32 and the beam splitter 34 are installed so as to freely turn. When the reflector 32 and the beam splitter 34 are turned by moving the guide members 321 and 341, the emission direction of laser beams emitted from them is changed and the position concentrating (converging) the laser beams, namely, a target position 5 is moved.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a side-injection type laser irradiation apparatus which is inserted into a body lumen such as a blood vessel, a urethra or an abdominal cavity and irradiates a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of the body.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Denaturation is performed by using a body cavity or making a small incision to insert a long laser irradiation device into a body lumen and irradiating a laser beam with various energy densities to a lesion. Techniques for treating necrosis, coagulation, cauterization, incision or transpiration are known.

In general, these techniques directly irradiate a laser beam to a lesion located at or near the surface of a living tissue, but treat a lesion (deep lesion) located deep in a living tissue. A technique of irradiating the deep part of the lesion with laser light for the purpose is also known.

However, in order to heat the deep part of the lesion to a sufficient temperature, it is necessary to irradiate a laser beam having a relatively high output, so that the surface layer may be damaged.

[0005]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, for example, a laser beam is emitted to the tip of a laser irradiation apparatus so that the irradiation range of the laser beam from each emitting section overlaps a deep part of a lesion. It is conceivable to provide a plurality of emission units. In this case, since the laser light from each of the emission sections provided at different positions converges on the deep part of the lesion, it is possible to heat the deep part of the lesion to a sufficient temperature while reducing damage to the surface layer to some extent. is there.

However, in the laser irradiation apparatus having such a configuration, it is not possible to adjust the depth of the position where the laser light from each emitting portion converges (the converging position). For this reason,
The entire lesion cannot be heated uniformly, resulting in local overheating or underheating. Such laser irradiation causes problems such as pain and complications, failing to obtain a satisfactory therapeutic effect, and easy recurrence.

In the above-described laser irradiation apparatus, since the depth of the focusing position is fixed to a constant value, in order to change the depth of the focusing position to a target depth, a laser irradiation device (laser It is necessary to replace the probe) with a probe in which the depth of the light condensing position is set to a target depth in advance. For this reason, the depth of the light condensing position can be changed only stepwise, and the operation is complicated. Further, when replacing the laser irradiation device, there is a disadvantage that the burden on the patient is large.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object thereof is to easily and reliably prevent damage to a normal tissue (particularly, normal tissue in a surface layer) while preventing damage to an irradiation target part (particularly, a normal tissue). It is an object of the present invention to provide a side-emission type laser irradiation apparatus which can effectively irradiate a laser beam to an irradiation target part located in a deep part.

[0009]

This and other objects are achieved by the present invention which is defined below as (1) to (18).

(1) A side-projection type laser irradiation apparatus for irradiating a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of a living body, comprising: an elongated main body; One light guide member, and an emission unit including a plurality of emission units that emit laser light guided by the light guide member sideways or obliquely so as to be collected at a target position via different paths, Emission direction changing means for changing the emission direction of the laser light from at least one of the emission parts, and the target position is moved by changing the emission direction of the laser light by the emission direction change means. A laser irradiation apparatus characterized in that it is configured to:

(2) A side-projection type laser irradiation apparatus for irradiating a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of a living body, comprising a long main body, and a plurality of main bodies installed on the main body for guiding the laser light. The light guide member is provided on the tip side of each of the light guide members, and the laser light guided by each of the light guide members is emitted laterally or obliquely so as to be collected at a target position through different paths. An emission unit including a plurality of emission units; and an emission direction changing unit configured to change an emission direction of laser light from at least one of the emission units, wherein the laser beam is emitted by the emission direction change unit. A laser irradiation device configured to move the target position by changing an emission direction of the laser beam.

(3) A side-projection type laser irradiation apparatus for irradiating a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of a living body, comprising a long main body, and a guide installed on the main body for guiding the laser light. An optical member, and a plurality of emission parts that divide the laser light guided by the light guide member into a plurality of parts and emit the divided laser lights to the target position sideward or obliquely so as to be collected through different paths to a target position. And an emission direction changing means for changing an emission direction of laser light from at least one of the emission parts, and an emission direction of the laser light by the emission direction change means. A laser irradiation device configured to move the target position by changing the laser irradiation device.

(4) At least one of the emission sections
First, the laser irradiation device according to the above (3), which is an optical element having a function of reflecting a part of the laser light and transmitting the remaining part.

(5) The laser irradiation apparatus according to the above (3) or (4), wherein each of the emission sections is located in a direction parallel to an axis of the main body.

(6) The target position is moved at least in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the main body by changing the emission direction of the laser beam by the emission direction changing means. The laser irradiation device according to any one of (5).

(7) The laser irradiation according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the emission direction changing means is configured to change the emission direction of the laser light from each of the emission units. apparatus.

(8) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the emission direction changing means changes an angle of the laser light with respect to an axis of the main body.

(9) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of the above (1) to (8), wherein the amount of the laser beam from each of the emission sections is configured to be substantially equal.

(10) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of the above (1) to (9), further comprising an optical system for converting the laser light into parallel light or convergent light in an optical path of the laser light.

(11) The emission section has a reflection surface that reflects at least a part of the laser light incident on the emission section,
The emission direction changing means is configured to change the emission direction of the laser light from the reflection surface by the rotation of the reflection surface, and the emission direction change means has an operation member for causing the rotation of the reflection surface. The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of the above (1) to (10).

(12) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein a scale corresponding to the target position is provided.

(13) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein the main body has a lumen into which an endoscope is inserted.

(14) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of (1) to (13), further comprising a balloon that expands and contracts at a distal end portion.

(15) The laser irradiation apparatus according to the above (14), further comprising a flow path for supplying and discharging a working fluid for expanding the balloon.

(16) The laser irradiation apparatus according to the above (15), wherein the working fluid is a cooling liquid.

(17) The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of (1) to (16), further comprising a surface layer containing a hydrophilic polymer material on a surface of the main body.

(18) The wavelength of the laser light is 800 to
The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of (1) to (17), which has a wavelength of 1300 nm.

[0028]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail based on a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a first embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a front view of the laser irradiation apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. It is a side view which shows the state inserted in the body cavity. For convenience of explanation, the right side in FIGS. 1 and 3 is “distal end”, and the left side is “base end”.
And

The laser irradiation device 1 shown in these figures is a side-projection type laser irradiation device for irradiating the living tissue 100 with a laser beam having the depth of a living body, and changes the emission direction (irradiation direction) of the laser beam. Outgoing direction changing means.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the laser irradiation apparatus 1 includes an elongated sheath (main body) 2 having a working lumen (hollow portion) 21 formed therein, and a working lumen 21 of the sheath 2. , An optical fiber (light guide member) 31, a reflecting mirror (emission unit) 32, a beam splitter (emission unit) 34, and rod-shaped guide members 321 and 341.

The working lumen 21 includes the sheath 2
And open to the proximal end side of the sheath 2.

Further, at least the lower portion of the distal end portion 23 of the sheath 2 in FIG. 1 has light transmittance.

In this case, for example, the distal end 23 of the sheath 2
1 may be formed with a light-transmitting window at the lower portion in FIG. 1, or the entire sheath 2 may have light-transmitting properties. Further, an opening may be provided in a lower portion in FIG. 1 of the distal end portion 23 of the sheath 2.

The optical fiber 31 is installed substantially at the center of the sheath 2 in parallel with the axis of the sheath 2.

The proximal end of the optical fiber 31 protrudes from the proximal end of the sheath 2, and the distal end is located near the distal end of the sheath 2. A laser light generator (not shown) for generating a laser beam is provided on the base end side of the optical fiber 31.

The optical fiber 31 comprises a core and a clad having a lower refractive index than the core, which is disposed around the core so as to surround the core.

The optical fiber 31 is not particularly limited as long as it can guide a laser beam. For example, the core may be composed mainly of quartz or may be composed of multi-component glass. It may be made of resin such as acrylic. In addition, one core may be used, or a plurality of cores may be arranged in the clad. Further, an optical fiber bundle in which a plurality of optical fibers are bundled may be used.

The beam splitter 34 includes the optical fiber 3
1 is located on the distal end side (the distal end portion 23),
It is rotatably supported by the sheath 2. further,
The beam splitter 34 is rotatably supported at its end by the tip of a guide member 341.

The guide member 341 is installed so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2 (the direction parallel to the axis of the sheath 2) and in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2. . The proximal end of the guide member 341 protrudes from the proximal end of the sheath 2.

The reflecting mirror 32 is a beam splitter 3
4 is located on the distal end side (the distal end portion 23),
It is rotatably supported by the sheath 2. further,
The reflecting mirror 32 is rotatably supported at its end by the tip of a guide member 321.

The guide member 321 is installed so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2 and in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2. The proximal end of the guide member 321 protrudes from the proximal end of the sheath 2.

The reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34
Are positioned on a straight line parallel to the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, that is, the axis of the sheath 2 (the axis of the optical fiber 31). The axis 322 supporting the reflecting mirror 32 and the axis 342 supporting the beam splitter 34 are arranged in parallel.

In the state shown in FIG. 1, the beam splitter 3
4, ie, the beam splitter 3
The laser light reflected on the divided surface 340 (arbitrary reflectance) 340 is emitted in a direction inclined from the lower side in FIG. The laser light reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 is
The light is emitted in a direction inclined toward the base end from the lower side in FIG.

Therefore, the split surface 3 of the beam splitter 34
The laser light reflected by the light source 40 and the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32
The laser beams reflected by the light beams overlap (gather) at a predetermined position on the lower side in FIG. Hereinafter, the laser beams overlap (gather).
The position is called a "destination position".

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the angle between the optical axis 201 of the laser light reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 and the straight line 204 parallel to the axis of the sheath 2 is θ ₁ , and the splitting surface of the beam splitter 34 When the angle between the optical axis 202 of the laser light reflected at 340 and the straight line 204 is θ ₂ , θ
By operating the guide member 321 and the guide member 341 so as to satisfy the condition of ₁ <θ ₂ , the reflection surface 320 of the reflection mirror 32 is
By changing the angle of the split surface 340 of the beam splitter 34, that is, by changing the emission direction (irradiation direction) of the laser beam, the target position (condensing position) 5 can be moved in any direction. This will be described later in detail.

The reflectivity of the beam splitter 34 (the reflectivity of the dividing surface 340) is not particularly limited, but is preferably set to ２.

By setting the reflectivity of the beam splitter 34 to １ ／, the laser light reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 and the split surface 340 of the beam splitter 34
The light quantity (intensity) of the laser light reflected by the light source becomes equal. Thereby, since the temperature of the surface layer portion 101 of the living tissue 100 can be further lowered, the safety for the patient is high.

The laser beam to be used is not particularly limited as long as it has a depth of a living body.
Those having a thickness of about 300 nm are preferred. Wavelength 800-130
Since the laser light of about 0 nm is particularly excellent in the depth of the living body,
When the living tissue 100 is irradiated with the laser beam, the surface layer 101 absorbs less energy, so that the irradiation target portion (lesion) 120 located deep in the living tissue 100 is more effectively irradiated with the laser beam. Can be irradiated.

Examples of the laser light generating device for generating the laser light of the above-mentioned wavelength include a gas laser such as a He-Ne laser, a solid laser such as an Nd-YAG laser,
Semiconductor lasers such as aAlAs lasers are exemplified.

The outer diameter (diameter) of the insertion portion of the laser irradiation device 1, that is, the outer diameter of the sheath 2 is not particularly limited as long as it can be inserted into the body cavity 110.
About mm is preferable, and about 3 to 8 mm is more preferable.

Examples of the material of the sheath 2 include polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyesters such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate, polyamides and polyurethanes. , Polystyrene, fluororesin, and the like, and a polymer alloy containing one of these, or a combination of two or more of these.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the reflecting means 32 and the beam splitter 34 constitute an emitting means.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. First, as shown in FIG.
Of the body cavity 11 from the distal end 23
0, and the distal end portion 23 is positioned above the irradiation target portion 120 in FIG.

Next, adjustment (setting) is performed so that the target position (light collecting position) 5 is located at a desired position in the irradiation target section 120.

The direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2 (FIG. 1)
In adjusting the position of the target position 5 in the vertical direction in FIG.
And either not one or both are rotated in a predetermined direction of the outgoing direction of the laser beam, i.e., to adjust either or both of theta ₁ and theta _2.

In this case, when θ ₁ is increased or θ ₂ is decreased, the target position 5 moves in the direction away from the sheath 2 (the lower side in FIGS. 1 and 3).

Conversely, when θ ₁ is decreased or θ ₂ is increased, the target position 5 moves in the direction approaching the sheath 2 (upper side in FIGS. 1 and 3).

In adjusting the position of the target position 5 in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, the entire laser irradiation device 1 is moved in a predetermined direction (the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2), or the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 are used. Are rotated in predetermined directions to adjust the emission direction of the laser beam, that is, each of θ ₁ and θ ₂ .

When adjusting the position of the target position 5 in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2 by rotating the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34, the sheath 2 does not need to be moved, so that the burden on the patient is reduced. Operation is also easy.

In adjusting the position of the target position 5 in the circumferential direction of the sheath 2, the entire laser irradiation device 1 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise in FIG.

The adjustment of the position of the target position 5 in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2, the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, and the circumferential direction of the sheath 2 may be performed as necessary.

Next, a laser light generator (not shown) is operated, and laser light is made to enter from each base end of the optical fiber 31.

As shown in FIG. 1, the laser light incident from the base end of the optical fiber 31 is guided from the base end to the front end by the optical fiber 31, and a part thereof is reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34. Then, the remaining part is transmitted through the division surface 340 (divided into reflected light and transmitted light).
The laser beam reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 is applied to the target position 5.

The laser light transmitted through the splitting surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 is reflected by the reflecting surface 32 of the reflecting mirror 32.
The light is reflected at 0 and the reflected light is applied to the target position 5.

That is, the laser light guided by the optical fiber 31 is split into two by the beam splitter 34, and the split laser light (the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32).
1 and the laser light reflected by the splitting surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 pass through different paths.
It converges (collects) at the target position 5 on the middle and lower sides.

As shown in FIG. 3, the target position 5 in the living tissue 100 and a portion (region) near the target position 5 are heated to a desired temperature by the irradiated laser light.

On the other hand, in the upper part (for example, the surface layer 101 of the living tissue 100) and the lower part of the irradiation target part 120 in FIG. 3, the laser beam reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter Since the laser beams reflected by the 34 divided surfaces 340 do not overlap, their temperatures are respectively maintained at relatively low temperatures.

Next, the target position 5 is moved (the target position 5 is continuously changed), and the entire irradiation target portion 120 is heated to a desired temperature.

FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 are sectional views showing the tip of the laser irradiation apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and its vicinity. For convenience of explanation, the right side in FIGS. 4 to 6 is referred to as “distal end”, and the left side is referred to as “base end”.

When moving the target position 5 in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2 (vertical direction in FIGS. 1 and 3), as described above, any one of the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 is used. either one or both are rotated in a predetermined direction, the emission direction of the laser beam, i.e., to change one or both of theta ₁ and theta _2.

For example, in the state shown in FIG.
When the mirror 21 is moved to the left in FIG. 4, the reflecting mirror 32 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 4, and the direction of emission of the laser beam from the reflecting mirror 32, that is, the reflecting surface 320 The angle of the optical axis 201 of the laser beam reflected by the is changed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, the angle theta ₁ between the optical axis 201 and the straight line 204 parallel to the axis of the sheath 2 of the laser beam becomes large.

When the guide member 341 is moved to the right in FIG. 4, the beam splitter 34 rotates clockwise in FIG. 4, and the direction of emission of the laser beam from the beam splitter 34, ie, the beam with respect to the axis of the sheath 2, The optical axis 20 of the laser beam reflected on the split surface 340 of the splitter 34
2 is changed. In this case, as shown in FIG.
The angle θ ₂ between the optical axis 202 of the laser beam and the straight line 204 becomes smaller. Accordingly, the target position 5 moves downward in FIG. 4 and becomes as shown in FIG.

Conversely, when moving the target position 5 upward in FIG. 5, the guide member 321 is moved rightward in FIG. 5, and the reflecting mirror 32 is rotated clockwise in FIG. Then, the guide member 341 is moved to the left in FIG. 5, and the beam splitter 34 is rotated counterclockwise in FIG.

As a result, θ ₁ decreases and θ ₂ increases, and the target position 5 moves upward in FIG.

When the target position 5 is moved in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2, _one of θ ₁ and θ ₂ is set to 90 °, and the other is changed (reflection). By moving one of the laser beam from the mirror 32 and the laser beam from the beam splitter 34 in the side direction and changing the other direction, the target position 5 is moved in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2. Without moving, the sheath 2 can be moved only in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2.

When the target position 5 is moved in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, as described above, the entire laser irradiation device 1 is moved in a predetermined direction (the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2), or the reflecting mirror is used. 32 and the beam splitter 34 are each rotated in a predetermined direction, so that the emission direction of the laser light,
That is, each of θ ₁ and θ ₂ is changed. In this case, it is preferable to move the target position 5 in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2 by rotating the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 for the same reason as described above.

For example, in the state shown in FIG.
When the mirror 21 is moved to the left in FIG. 4, the reflecting mirror 32 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 4, and the direction of emission of the laser beam from the reflecting mirror 32, that is, the reflecting surface 320 The angle of the optical axis 201 of the laser beam reflected by the is changed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the angle θ ₁ between the optical axis 201 of the laser beam and the straight line 204 increases.

Similarly, when the guide member 341 is moved to the left in FIG. 4, the beam splitter 34 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 4, and the emission direction of the laser beam from the beam splitter 34, that is, the axis of the sheath 2, The optical axis 2 of the laser beam reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34
02 is changed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, an angle θ ₂ between the optical axis 202 of the laser beam and the straight line 204 is formed.
Becomes larger. Accordingly, the target position 5 moves to the right in FIG. 4, and becomes as shown in FIG.

Conversely, when the target position 5 is moved to the left in FIG. 6, the guide members 321 and 341 are moved to the right in FIG. 6 respectively, and the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 are each turned clockwise in FIG. Rotate to.

As a result, θ ₁ and θ ₂ become smaller, and the target position 5 moves to the left in FIG.

When moving the target position 5 in the circumferential direction of the sheath 2, as described above,
The whole is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise in FIG.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the entire laser irradiating apparatus 1 is rotated by one or more rotations about the axis of the sheath 2, the entire annular irradiation target section 120 can be heated to a desired temperature.

The movement of the target position 5 in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2, the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, and the circumferential direction of the sheath 2 may be performed as necessary.

After the irradiation of the irradiation target section 120 with the laser beam is completed, the entire laser irradiation apparatus 1 is moved to the left in FIG.

As described above, according to the laser irradiation apparatus 1, when irradiating the irradiation target section 120 with laser light, the laser light reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32,
Since the laser light reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 is concentrated (condensed) on the target position 5 through different paths, the temperature of the part (normal tissue) other than the irradiation target part 120 is set to a relatively low temperature. It is held (the part other than the irradiation target part 120 can be preserved). This can prevent (reduce) damage to portions other than the irradiation target portion 120, and in particular, can prevent damage to the surface layer portion 101 even when the irradiation target portion 120 is located at a deep portion.
High safety for patients.

The laser beam reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 and the split surface 34 of the beam splitter 34
Since the laser light reflected at 0 is concentrated at the target position 5,
The energy density of the laser beam increases at the target position 5 and in the vicinity thereof, whereby the irradiation target unit 120 can be heated to a desired temperature.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the target position 5 can be moved in an arbitrary direction, and in particular, the target position 5 can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2, It is possible to easily and reliably heat the entire irradiation target unit 120 to a desired temperature uniformly with respect to the irradiation target unit 120 located at an arbitrary position and the irradiation target unit 120 having an arbitrary shape and an arbitrary dimension. (It is possible to prevent local overheating and underheating).

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the target position 5 is moved in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2 by rotating one or both of the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34. Therefore, it is not necessary to replace the laser irradiation device in order to change the depth of the target position 5. Therefore, the operation is easy and the burden on the patient can be reduced.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the target position 5 can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2 without rotating the sheath 2 by rotating the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34. 11
Even when the insertion portion of the laser irradiation device 1 can be inserted only halfway because of a relatively small value of 0, the irradiation target portion 120 is irradiated with the laser beam and the irradiation target portion 1 is irradiated.
20 can be heated to a desired temperature.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the direction of emission of laser light from the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34, that is, the angles θ ₁ and θ ₂ are changed by rotating the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34. Because it is difficult to transmit laser light,
The irradiation target unit 120 can be irradiated with the laser beam while avoiding a portion where a complication is likely to occur even when the laser beam having a relatively low energy density is irradiated.

The laser irradiation apparatus 1 is configured to use a single optical fiber 31, divide the laser light guided by the optical fiber 31 into a plurality of laser lights, and emit the divided laser lights. The diameter of the insertion section (sheath 2) of the laser irradiation device 1 can be reduced. Thereby, the penetrability of the laser irradiation device 1 is improved, and the burden on the patient such as pain and abrasion when inserting and removing the laser irradiation device 1 can be reduced.

In the present invention, the emitting means (reflecting mirror 3
2. The laser light emitted from the beam splitter 34) may be any of divergent light, parallel light, and convergent light, and among these, parallel light or convergent light is preferable.

When the laser light emitted from the emitting means is a parallel light or a convergent light, the laser light can be more concentrated on the target position 5 and the energy density of the laser light at the target position 5 and its vicinity can be increased. Can be enhanced. In other words, in the case of the parallel light or the convergent light, when the energy density of the laser light applied to the target position 5 is the same, the energy of the laser light applied to the surface layer portion 101 is lower than in the case of the divergent light. Since the density can be reduced, damage to the surface layer portion 101 can be more reliably prevented.

When the laser light emitted from the emitting means is a convergent light, the laser light converges to the target position 5,
That is, it is preferable that the position where the laser light converges (the position where the area of the spot light on the plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the laser light becomes minimum) coincides with the target position 5.

By converging the laser light to the target position 5, the energy density of the laser light at the target position 5 and its vicinity can be further increased.

In order for the laser light emitted from the emitting means to be parallel light or convergent light, an optical system for converting the laser light into parallel light or convergent light is provided in the optical path of the laser light.

In the present invention, only one of the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 may be rotatably provided. Also in this case, one of the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 is rotated in a predetermined direction to change the emission direction (θ ₁ or θ ₂ ) of the laser beam, so that the target position 5 is moved with respect to the axis of the sheath 2. Can be moved vertically.

In the present invention, the light amounts of the laser beams from the respective light emitting portions may be equal or may be different. In particular, the laser light amounts from the respective light emitting portions are equalized. It is preferred that By making the amount of laser light from each emission unit equal, if the total value of the amount of laser light from each emission unit is the same, the temperature of the surface layer can be lowered, so that safety for patients is improved. high.

Further, in the present invention, the number of the emitting portions of the emitting means is not limited to two, but may be three or more.

In this case, if the number of the emitting portions is too large, the structure becomes complicated. Therefore, the number of the emitting portions is preferably about 2 to 6, more preferably about 2 to 4.

Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 8 shows a second example of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.
It is sectional drawing which shows an Example. For convenience of explanation, FIG.
The middle right is referred to as “distal end” and the left side is referred to as “proximal end”. In addition, description of common points with the above-described first embodiment is omitted, and
The main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG.
In the working lumen 21 of the sheath 2, optical fibers (light guide members) 31 and 41, reflection mirrors (output units) 32 and 35, and rod-shaped guide members 321 and 341 are installed.

The optical fiber 41 is located above the optical fiber 31 in FIG. And the optical fiber 41
Is located on the distal end side (right side in FIG. 8) of the optical fiber 31.

The reflecting mirror 35 is located on the distal end side (the distal end portion 23) of the optical fiber 31, and is rotatably supported by the sheath 2 by the shaft 352. Further, the reflecting mirror 35
Is rotatably supported at its end by the distal end of the guide member 341.

The reflecting mirror 32 is located on the distal end side (the distal end portion 23) of the optical fiber 41, and is supported by the shaft 322 so as to be rotatable with respect to the sheath 2. Further, the reflecting mirror 32 is rotatably supported at its end by the tip of a guide member 321.

The axis 322 supporting the reflecting mirror 32 and the axis 352 supporting the reflecting mirror 35 are arranged in parallel.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. The laser light incident from the proximal end of the optical fiber 31 is guided from the proximal end to the distal end by the optical fiber 31, is reflected by the reflecting surface 350 of the reflecting mirror 35, and the reflected light is applied to the target position 5.

Similarly, the laser light incident from the proximal end of the optical fiber 41 is guided from the proximal end to the distal end by the optical fiber 41, and is reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32.
The reflected light is applied to the target position 5.

That is, the laser beam reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 and the laser beam reflected by the reflecting surface 350 of the reflecting mirror 35 are focused on the target position 5 via different paths.

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

Next, a description will be given of a third embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 9 shows a third example of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention.
It is sectional drawing which shows an Example. For convenience of explanation, FIG.
The middle right is referred to as “distal end” and the left side is referred to as “proximal end”. In addition, description of common points with the above-described first embodiment is omitted, and
The main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG.
Then, the tip of the optical fiber 31 and the beam splitter 3
4, a collimating lens 36 is provided.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. The laser light incident from the proximal end of the optical fiber 31 is guided from the proximal end to the distal end by the optical fiber 31, is converted into parallel light by the collimator lens 36, and a part of the light is reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34. , And the remainder is transmitted through the division surface 340 (divided into reflected light and transmitted light). Dividing surface 3 of the beam splitter 34
The laser light reflected at 40 is applied to the target position 5.

The laser light (parallel light) transmitted through the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 is reflected by the reflection surface 320 of the reflection mirror 32, and the reflected light is applied to the target position 5.

That is, the laser light guided by the optical fiber 31 is converted into parallel light by the collimating lens 36, and then split into two by the beam splitter 34. The reflected laser light and the laser light reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 converge on the target position 5 through different paths.

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

Since the laser irradiation apparatus 1 irradiates parallel light, the laser light can be more concentrated on the target position 5 as compared with the case of irradiating diffused light. The energy density of light can be further increased. In other words, when the energy density of the laser beam applied to the target position 5 is the same,
Since the energy density of the laser beam applied to the surface layer can be made lower than in the case of divergent light, damage to the surface layer can be more reliably prevented.

In the present invention, the collimating lens 36
Is not limited to the position between the tip of the optical fiber 31 and the beam splitter 34. That is, the collimating lens 36 only needs to be located in the middle of the optical path of the laser light.

Next, a description will be given of a fourth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing a fourth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a side view of the laser irradiation apparatus shown in FIG. For convenience of explanation, FIG.
In addition, the right side in FIG. 11 is referred to as “distal end”, and the left side is referred to as “proximal end”. Further, regarding the common points with the third embodiment described above,
The description will be omitted, and the main differences will be described.

As shown in these figures, in this laser irradiation apparatus 1, the guide member 321
There is provided a lever (operation member) 6a for moving the reflection mirror 32 by moving the 21.

The guide member 341 is provided with a lever (operating member) 6b for moving the guide member 341 to rotate the beam splitter 34.

The lever 6a has a head 61 and this head 61
And a thinner shaft 63. Also, the head 61
Is provided with a linear index 62.

Similarly, the lever 6b has a head 61 and a shaft 63 narrower than the head 61. Also,
The head 61 is provided with a linear index 62.

A long hole (guide groove) 24 for guiding the levers 6a and 6b, respectively, is provided on the proximal end side of the sheath 2.
Are formed.

The elongated hole 24 is formed parallel to the axis of the sheath 2 and communicates with the working lumen 21.

The width (length in the vertical direction in FIG. 11) of the elongated hole 24 is set larger than the outer diameter (diameter) of the shaft portion 63 of the levers 6a and 6b and smaller than the head 61. .

The shafts 63 of the levers 6a and 6b are inserted into the elongated holes 24, respectively, and the heads 61 of the levers 6a and 6b are located on the outer peripheral side of the sheath 2, respectively.

In the vicinity of the elongated hole 24 on the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 2 (the lower side of the elongated hole 24 in FIG. 11), a scale 25 is provided parallel to the axis of the sheath 2, that is, parallel to the elongated hole 24. ing.

The scale 25 corresponds to the angles θ ₁ and θ ₂ , that is, the position of the target position 5.

Therefore, by reading the value of the scale 25 that matches the index 62 of the lever 6a and the value of the scale 25 that matches the index 62 of the lever 6b, the position of the target position 5 can be determined from these values. In particular, the distance between the target position 5 in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the sheath 2 and the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 2 (the surface of the living tissue), that is, the depth of the target position 5 can be grasped. it can.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. When the operator grips the head 61 of the lever 6a and moves the lever 6a, the lever 6a
4, the guide member 321 moves in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2 and the reflecting mirror 32 rotates in a predetermined direction. That is, θ ₁ is changed.

When the operator holds the head 61 of the lever 6b and moves the lever 6b, the operator moves the lever 6b.
“b” slides along the elongated hole 24, along with which the guide member 341 moves in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, and the beam splitter 34 rotates in a predetermined direction. That is, θ ₂ is changed.

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the third embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

In this laser irradiation apparatus 1, since the levers 6a and 6b are provided, the guide member 3 is provided.
The movement operation of the laser beams 21 and 341, that is, the change of the emission direction of the laser beam by the rotation of the reflecting mirror 32 and the beam splitter 34 can be easily performed.

When the value of the scale 25 that matches the index 62 of the lever 6a and the value of the scale 25 that matches the index 62 of the lever 6b are read, the target position 5 is determined from these values.
(Particularly, the depth of the target position 5) can be grasped, so that the target position 5 can be easily and reliably moved to the target position (in particular, the depth of the target position 5 Can be changed to depth). Therefore, it is possible to easily and reliably heat the entire irradiation target unit 120 to a desired temperature while maintaining the temperature of the parts other than the irradiation target unit 120 at a relatively low temperature.

Next, a description will be given of a fifth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing a fifth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention. For convenience of explanation, the right side in FIG. 12 is referred to as “distal end”, and the left side is referred to as “base end”. Also,
A description of common points with the above-described fourth embodiment will be omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG.
Then, the laser beam emission side of the reflecting mirror 32 (the lower side in FIG. 12)
Is provided with a converging lens (condensing lens) 37.

A converging lens (condensing lens) is provided on the laser beam emitting side (lower side in FIG. 12) of the beam splitter 34.
38 are installed.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. The laser light incident from the proximal end of the optical fiber 31 is guided from the proximal end to the distal end by the optical fiber 31, is converted into parallel light by the collimator lens 36, and a part of the light is reflected by the division surface 340 of the beam splitter 34. , And the remainder is transmitted through the division surface 340 (divided into reflected light and transmitted light). Dividing surface 3 of the beam splitter 34
The laser light reflected at 40 is converted into convergent light by a converging lens 38, and is applied to a target position 5.

The laser light (parallel light) transmitted through the splitting surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 is reflected by the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32, and the reflected light is
Is converged light, and is emitted to the target position 5.

That is, the laser light guided by the optical fiber 31 is converted into parallel light by the collimator lens 36, and then split into two by the beam splitter 34, and these split laser lights (at the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32 at the reflecting surface 320 of the reflecting mirror 32). The reflected laser light and the laser light reflected by the split surface 340 of the beam splitter 34 are each converged light, and are condensed on the target position 5 via different paths.

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the fourth embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

Since the laser irradiation device 1 irradiates the convergent light, the laser light can be more concentrated on the target position 5 as compared with the case of irradiating the diffused light. The energy density of light can be further increased. In other words, when the energy density of the laser beam applied to the target position 5 is the same,
Since the energy density of the laser beam applied to the surface layer can be made lower than in the case of divergent light, damage to the surface layer can be more reliably prevented.

FIG. 13 shows the laser light (convergent light) emitted from the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the fifth embodiment and the laser light (parallel light) emitted from the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. FIG.

As shown in FIG.
The laser beam 301 emitted from the convergence is once converged and then diffused. Therefore, in this laser irradiation device 1, the parallel light 3
In the range 303 shown in FIG. 13, the beam diameter is smaller and the energy density of the laser beam is higher than in the case of irradiating 02.

In the present invention, the position of the converging lens 37 is not limited to the laser beam emission side of the reflecting mirror 32. That is, the converging lens 37 may be located in the middle of the optical path of the laser light.

Similarly, in the present invention, the position of the converging lens 38 is not limited to the laser beam emission side of the beam splitter 34. That is, the converging lens 38 may be located in the middle of the optical path of the laser light.

In the present invention, the collimating lens 36
May be omitted, and the divergent light may be converted into convergent light by the converging lenses 37 and 38.

Next, a description will be given of a sixth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 14 is a sectional view showing a sixth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention. For convenience of explanation, the right side in FIG. 14 is referred to as “distal end” and the left side as “base end”. Also,
A description of common points with the above-described third embodiment will be omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG.
In the embodiment, an endoscope lumen (hollow portion) 22 into which the endoscope 8 is detachably inserted is formed in the sheath 2.

The endoscope lumen 22 is made of the optical fiber 3
1 is formed parallel to the axis of the sheath 2 on the lower side in FIG.

[0153] The lumen 22 for the endoscope is formed of the sheath 2.
, And communicates with the working lumen 21.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. For example, the endoscope 8 for oblique viewing is inserted into the endoscope lumen 22 from the distal end portion 81 thereof, and the distal end portion 8 of the endoscope 8 is inserted.
1 is protruded from the endoscope lumen 22, and is positioned near the distal end portion 23 of the sheath 2, that is, near the beam splitter 34.

The observation range 1 shown in FIG.
The operator can observe, for example, the irradiation position of the laser light, the irradiation direction of the laser light (the emission direction of the laser light), and the living tissue 100 irradiated with the laser light by the endoscope 8. Observe the condition of the surface.

By rotating the endoscope 8 or moving the endoscope 8 in the longitudinal direction of the sheath 2, the observation range 1
40 can be moved in any direction.

With this laser irradiation apparatus 1, the same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the third embodiment can be obtained.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, since the observation range 140 can be observed by the endoscope 8, it is possible to visually check the position on the surface of the living tissue 100 corresponding to the irradiation target section 120. As well as
When the laser light is irradiated, the irradiation position and the irradiation direction of the laser light can be visually confirmed. Thus, the irradiation target unit 120 can be more reliably irradiated with the laser beam.

During the irradiation of the laser light, the state of the surface of the living tissue 100 irradiated with the laser light is observed.
Accordingly, irradiation conditions and the like can be changed to optimal conditions.

In the present invention, the endoscope 8 may be fixedly installed on the sheath 2. In the present invention, the structure of the endoscope 8 to be used is not particularly limited.

Next, a description will be given of a seventh embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 15 is a sectional view showing a seventh embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention. In addition, a part of FIG.
Shown schematically. For convenience of explanation, the right side in FIG. 15 is referred to as “distal end” and the left side as “base end”. In addition, the third
The description of the common points with the embodiment will be omitted, and the main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG.
In this example, a balloon 9 that expands and contracts is provided at the distal end portion 23 of the sheath 2. At least a lower portion of the balloon 9 in FIG. 15 has light transmittance.

As a constituent material of the balloon 9, for example,
Materials excellent in laser light transmittance, such as polyolefin, polyester, polyamide, latex, and cellulose, are preferable. As a result, energy loss and heat generation due to absorption of laser light by the balloon 9 can be reduced.

In the sheath 2, an inflation lumen (flow path) 26 for supplying a working fluid for expanding the balloon 9 and an inflation lumen (flow path) 27 for discharging the working fluid are formed, respectively. ing.

The inflation lumens 26 and 27 are opened to a working fluid supply part 28 and a discharge part 29 formed on the proximal end side of the sheath 2, respectively. Communicates with the hollow portion 91 of

The inflation lumen 26 and the inflation lumen 27 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of the sheath 2.

Further, the working lumen 21 of the sheath 2
Is open to the proximal end. This working lumen 2
1 is an optical fiber 31 and a reflecting mirror 3 as described above.
2 and a guide member 321 supporting the reflecting mirror 32
And an assembly 11 of a beam splitter 34 and a guide member 341 supporting the beam splitter 34 (see FIG. 9).

The working fluid is not particularly limited as long as it can expand and contract the balloon 9, but is preferably a cooling liquid.

By using a cooling fluid as the working fluid, the surface layer of the living tissue can be cooled by the cooling fluid during the laser irradiation, and the surface layer can be more reliably prevented from being damaged. .

For example, when the irradiation target section 120 is the prostate, the temperature of the irradiation target section 120 becomes about 48 to 55 ° C., and the upper and lower parts of the irradiation target section 120 in FIG. It is preferable to irradiate the laser light so that the temperature is 44 ° C. or less, respectively. However, the laser irradiation apparatus 1 can irradiate the laser light as such.

The temperature of the cooling liquid is not particularly limited as long as it can cool the surface layer of the living tissue, but is preferably 37 ° C. or less, more preferably 0 to 25 ° C., and 0 to 1 ° C.
About 0 ° C. is more preferable.

The working fluid is preferably a physiological saline. By using physiological saline as the working fluid, if the working fluid leaks into the body for some reason, the influence of the leak can be reduced.

When a cooling fluid is used as the working fluid, it is preferable to circulate the cooling fluid, and more preferably to circulate the cooling fluid from before the laser irradiation until the end of the laser irradiation.

By circulating the cooling liquid, the cooling efficiency can be improved. By circulating the cooling liquid from before the laser irradiation to the end of the laser irradiation, the surface layer can be further cooled.

Further, it is preferable that the discharge section 29 is provided with, for example, a pressure valve that opens when a predetermined pressure is exceeded. Thereby, the balloon 9 can be expanded at a constant pressure regardless of the flow rate of the cooling liquid.

It is preferable to control the temperature of the cooling liquid and the flow rate of the cooling liquid in conjunction with laser irradiation. This allows
Excessive cooling and excessive heating of the surface layer can be prevented.

It is preferable that the balloon 9 be provided with a temperature sensor for detecting the surface temperature of the living tissue. In this case, the surface temperature of the living tissue is detected by the temperature sensor, and the information (detected value) can be used for cooling control.
As a result, it is possible to efficiently, efficiently and necessitate cooling.

Next, the operation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 will be described. With the balloon 9 deflated, the laser irradiation device 1
Is inserted into the body cavity from the distal end portion 23, and the distal end portion 23 is positioned above the irradiation target portion 120 in FIG.

Then, a cooling liquid (working fluid) is injected from the supply unit 28 by a pump or the like connected to the supply unit 28,
The balloon 9 is expanded to a predetermined size.

In this case, the cooling liquid flows from the supply part 28 through the inflation lumen 26 into the hollow part 91 of the balloon 9, whereby the balloon 9 is expanded.

By expanding the balloon 9, the position and the direction of the laser irradiation device 1 are fixed. This makes it possible to easily and reliably irradiate the irradiation target unit 120 with the laser light.

Further, by expanding the balloon 9 and applying a predetermined pressure to the living tissue from its surface to a deep portion, the living tissue is compressed and becomes an ischemic state. The optical path length of the laser light up to 120 is shortened, thereby making the laser light easier to transmit.

Further, the portion in contact with the balloon 9 and its vicinity, that is, the surface layer of the living tissue is cooled by the cooling liquid, whereby the damage of the surface layer can be prevented more reliably.

When the coolant is circulated, the supply unit 28
The cooling liquid is discharged from the discharge section 29 while the cooling liquid is injected.

In this case, the cooling liquid flows from the supply section 28 into the hollow section 91 of the balloon 9 via the inflation lumen 26. The coolant flowing into the hollow portion 91 is
At least half a revolution (circulation) in the hollow portion 91, and then, through the inflation lumen 27, the discharge portion 29
Is discharged from

When the laser irradiation to the irradiation target section 120 is completed and the laser irradiation apparatus 1 is pulled out of the body cavity, the cooling liquid is not injected from the supply section 28 but only the cooling liquid is discharged from the discharge section 29. I do.

In this case, the cooling liquid in the hollow portion 91 of the balloon 9 flows from the hollow portion 91 to the inflation lumen 27.
After that, the balloon 9 is discharged from the discharge portion 29, and the balloon 9 is deflated.

Then, in a state where the balloon 9 is deflated, the entire laser irradiation device 1 is moved to the left side in FIG. 15 and pulled out from the body cavity.

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the third embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, as described above, the position and orientation of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 can be easily and reliably fixed by the balloon 9.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, the surface layer of the living tissue can be cooled by the cooling liquid in the hollow portion 91 of the balloon 9.

In the present invention, the balloon 9 and the like may be provided in the sheath 2 as in the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the seventh embodiment as in the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the above-described embodiment.

Next, an eighth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention will be described. FIG. 16 is a sectional view showing an eighth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, a part of FIG.
Shown schematically. In addition, for convenience of description, the right side in FIG. 16 is referred to as “distal end”, and the left side is referred to as “base end”. In addition, the aforementioned seventh
The description of the common points with the embodiment will be omitted, and the main differences will be described.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1 shown in the figure, the sheath 7 is detachably inserted (installed) into the working lumen 21 of the sheath 2.

The working lumen 7 is provided in the sheath 7.
1 is formed. The working lumen 71 includes the above-described aggregate 11, that is, the optical fiber 31.
An assembly 11 of a reflecting mirror 32 and a guide member 321 supporting the reflecting mirror 32, a beam splitter 34 and a guide member 341 supporting the beam splitter 34 is provided (see FIG. 9).

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the seventh embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, since the sheath 7 on which the assembly 11 is installed is removably inserted into the working lumen 21 of the sheath 2, the sheath 2 contacting the living tissue can be replaced. (Eg, disposable) or the sheath 7 can be replaceable.
In particular, since the sheath 7 can be replaced while the sheath 2 is inserted into the body cavity, there is an advantage that the burden on the patient is reduced.

Next, a description will be given of a ninth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention. The description of the common points with the above-described eighth embodiment will be omitted, and the main differences will be described.

In the laser irradiation apparatus 1, a surface layer containing a hydrophilic polymer material is provided on the surface of the sheath 2 or the surfaces of the sheath 2 and the balloon 9.

Examples of the hydrophilic polymer material include carboxymethyl cellulose, polysaccharide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, sodium polyacrylate,
Methyl vinyl ether-maleic anhydride copolymer, water-soluble polyamide and the like are preferable, and among them, methyl vinyl ether-maleic anhydride copolymer is particularly preferable.

When using the laser irradiation device 1, the surface layer of the laser irradiation device 1 is immersed in, for example, physiological saline. As a result, the surface layer becomes wet, and lubricity of the surface of the laser irradiation device 1 occurs.

The same effects as those of the laser irradiation apparatus 1 of the eighth embodiment can be obtained with this laser irradiation apparatus 1.

Since the laser irradiation device 1 has a surface layer containing a hydrophilic polymer material, the friction of the laser irradiation device 1 against the living tissue is reduced, thereby reducing the burden on the patient. And safety is improved.

For example, the laser irradiation device 1 can be smoothly inserted into the body cavity, pulled out of the body cavity, and moved or rotated in the body cavity.

The laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention is a laser irradiation apparatus for medical use, and is used for treating, for example, benign prostatic hyperplasia and various tumors (for example, cancer).

The laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention has been described based on the embodiments shown in the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Can be replaced by

For example, in the present invention, the features of the above-described embodiments may be appropriately combined. In the present invention, the light guide member is not limited to an optical fiber as long as it can guide laser light, and may be, for example, a rod lens or the like.

In the present invention, the emitting section is not limited to those in the above-described embodiments, and may be, for example, a prism, a wedge plate, or the like.

[0209]

As described above, according to the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention, the laser beams from the plurality of emission units are concentrated (condensed) at the target position via different paths, so that the laser irradiation unit other than the irradiation target unit. The temperature of the site (normal tissue) is kept at a relatively low temperature. As a result, it is possible to prevent (reduce) damage to portions other than the irradiation target portion, and in particular, it is possible to prevent damage to the surface layer even when the irradiation target portion is located at a deep portion, thereby improving patient safety. high.

[0210] Since the laser beams from the plurality of emission portions are concentrated at the target position, the energy density of the laser beam is increased at the target position and in the vicinity thereof, whereby the irradiation target portion can be heated to a desired temperature. .

In particular, in the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention, the target position can be moved in a direction parallel to or perpendicular to the axis of the main body by changing the emission direction of the laser beam by the emission direction changing means. Can be easily and reliably
It is possible to uniformly heat the entire irradiation target portion to a desired temperature while maintaining the temperature of a portion other than the irradiation target portion at a relatively low temperature.

Further, since the target position can be moved in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the main body by the emission direction changing means, the depth of the target position can be set to an arbitrary depth without replacing the laser irradiation device. Can be changed. For this reason,
The operation is easy, and the burden on the patient can be reduced.

Further, the target position can be moved in a direction parallel to the axis of the main body without moving the main body by the emission direction changing means, so that, for example, the insertion portion of the laser irradiation device can be moved halfway into the body cavity. Even when only the insertion target can be inserted, the irradiation target part can be irradiated with laser light to heat the irradiation target part to a desired temperature.

Further, since the emission direction of the laser light (the angle of the laser light with respect to the axis of the main body) can be changed by the emission direction changing means, for example, a portion where the transmission of the laser light is difficult, a relatively low energy The laser beam can be irradiated to the irradiation target portion while avoiding a portion where a complication is likely to occur even when the laser beam is irradiated at a high density.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a first embodiment of a laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the laser irradiation apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a side view showing a state where the laser irradiation apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is inserted into a body cavity.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a distal end portion of the laser irradiation device shown in FIG. 1 and its vicinity.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a distal end portion of the laser irradiation device shown in FIG. 1 and its vicinity.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a distal end portion of the laser irradiation device shown in FIG. 1 and its vicinity.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing an example of use of the laser irradiation apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing a second embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing a third embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing a fourth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

11 is a side view of the laser irradiation device shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing a fifth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

13 is a diagram schematically showing laser light (convergent light) emitted from the laser irradiation device shown in FIG. 12 and laser light (parallel light) emitted from the laser irradiation device shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a sectional view showing a sixth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a sectional view showing a seventh embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view showing an eighth embodiment of the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 laser irradiation device 2 sheath 21 working lumen 22 endoscope lumen 23 distal end portion 24 long hole 25 scale 26, 27 inflation lumen 28 supply unit 29 discharge unit 31 optical fiber 32 reflecting mirror 320 reflecting surface 321 guide member 322 axis 34 beam splitter 340 Dividing surface 341 Guide member 342 axis 35 Reflecting mirror 350 Reflecting surface 352 axis 36 Collimating lens 37, 38 Converging lens 41 Optical fiber 5 Target position 6a, 6b Lever 61 Head 62 Index 63 Shaft 7 Sheath 71 Working lumen 8 Endoscope 81 Tip part 9 Balloon 91 Hollow part 11 Assembly 100 Living tissue 101 Surface part 110 Body cavity 120 Irradiation target part 140 Observation range 201-203 Optical axis 204 Straight line 301 Laser light 302 Parallel light 30 Range

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. A side-projection type laser irradiation apparatus for irradiating a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of a living body, comprising: an elongated main body;
An emission unit comprising: a plurality of light guide members; and a plurality of emission units that emit laser light guided by the light guide members in a lateral or oblique direction so as to be collected at a target position through different paths. Emission direction changing means for changing the emission direction of the laser light from at least one of the emission sections, and the target position is moved by changing the emission direction of the laser light by the emission direction change means. A laser irradiation apparatus characterized by being configured as described above. 2. A side-projection type laser irradiation apparatus for irradiating a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of a living body, comprising: an elongated main body; A plurality of light guide members, which are provided on the tip end side of each of the light guide members and emit laser light guided by the respective light guide members sideward or obliquely so as to be collected at a target position via different paths. And an emission direction changing means for changing an emission direction of the laser beam from at least one of the emission portions, wherein the emission direction changing means changes the emission direction of the laser light. A laser irradiation apparatus characterized in that the target position is moved by changing the emission direction. 3. A side-projection type laser irradiation apparatus for irradiating a living tissue with a laser beam having a depth of a living body, comprising: an elongated main body; and a light guide installed on the main body and guiding the laser light. A member, splitting the laser light guided by the light guide member into a plurality,
An emission unit including a plurality of emission units that emit sideways or obliquely so as to collect each split laser beam at a target position via different paths; and from at least one of the emission units. And an emission direction changing means for changing the emission direction of the laser light, and wherein the emission position changing means changes the emission direction of the laser light so as to move the target position. Laser irradiation device. 4. At least one of the light emitting units,
The laser irradiation device according to claim 3, wherein the laser irradiation device is an optical element having a function of reflecting a part of the laser light and transmitting the remaining part. 5. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein each of the emission units is located in a direction parallel to an axis of the main body. 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said target position is moved at least in a direction perpendicular to an axis of said main body by changing an emission direction of said laser beam by said emission direction changing means. The laser irradiation device according to any one of the above. 7. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the emission direction changing means is configured to change an emission direction of the laser light from each of the emission units. 8. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the emission direction changing means changes an angle of the laser light with respect to an axis of the main body. 9. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the laser light from each of the emission units is configured to have substantially the same light amount. 10. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an optical system for converting the laser light into parallel light or convergent light in the middle of the optical path of the laser light. 11. The emission unit has a reflection surface that reflects at least a part of the laser light incident on the emission unit, and the laser from the reflection surface is rotated by the rotation of the reflection surface by the emission direction changing unit. The laser irradiation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the laser irradiation apparatus is configured to change an emission direction of light, and wherein the emission direction changing unit includes an operation member that causes the reflection surface to rotate. 12. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a scale corresponding to the target position is provided. 13. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main body has a lumen into which an endoscope is inserted. 14. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a balloon that expands and contracts at a distal end portion. 15. The laser irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a surface layer containing a hydrophilic polymer material on a surface of said main body.