WO2012132720A1 - Drug injection apparatus and drug injection system - Google Patents

Drug injection apparatus and drug injection system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012132720A1
WO2012132720A1 PCT/JP2012/055025 JP2012055025W WO2012132720A1 WO 2012132720 A1 WO2012132720 A1 WO 2012132720A1 JP 2012055025 W JP2012055025 W JP 2012055025W WO 2012132720 A1 WO2012132720 A1 WO 2012132720A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
drug
subject
irradiation
ultrasonic
introduction
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PCT/JP2012/055025
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French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
玉野　聡
Original Assignee
株式会社 日立メディコ
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Publication of WO2012132720A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012132720A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M37/00—Other apparatus for introducing media into the body; Percutany, i.e. introducing medicines into the body by diffusion through the skin
    • A61M37/0092—Other apparatus for introducing media into the body; Percutany, i.e. introducing medicines into the body by diffusion through the skin using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic vibrations, e.g. phonophoresis
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A61N2007/0047—Ultrasound therapy interstitial
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A61N2007/0086—Beam steering
    • A61N2007/0095—Beam steering by modifying an excitation signal

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a drug introduction device and a drug introduction system, and more particularly to a technique for promoting introduction of a drug using ultrasonic waves.
  • Patent Document 1 proposes that a malignant tumor is treated by introducing a substance such as an anticancer agent or a gene used for gene therapy (hereinafter referred to as a drug) into the cells of the malignant tumor.
  • a substance such as an anticancer agent or a gene used for gene therapy (hereinafter referred to as a drug)
  • a drug a substance used for gene therapy
  • an ultrasonic diagnostic device is used, and when the drug administered from the vein to the subject reaches the treatment area where the malignant tumor exists, the ultrasonic wave is predetermined. It has been proposed to irradiate for a time to facilitate the introduction of drugs into cells of malignant tumors.
  • an ultrasonic probe is brought into close contact with the body surface of a subject, an ultrasonic wave is irradiated to a region having a malignant tumor, and an ultrasonic image is generated based on the reflected echo signal, A treatment area and an ultrasound irradiation plan are set based on the ultrasound image.
  • a drug used in the treatment method as in Patent Document 1 is generally formed so as to specifically bind to a malignant tumor cell and enter the cell. Therefore, when a drug is administered into a blood vessel, the drug circulates in the body together with blood, binds to malignant tumor cells, and is introduced into the cells. At this time, since the drug does not easily enter the cell, the drug accumulates in the treatment area where cells of the malignant tumor are present. Therefore, by irradiating the treatment area where the drug is accumulated with ultrasonic waves, introduction of the drug into the cells of the malignant tumor can be promoted.
  • the problem to be solved by the present invention is to improve the usability by reducing the burden on the operator and the subject when performing a treatment for introducing a drug into cells using ultrasound.
  • the drug introduction device of the present invention includes a vibrator for irradiating a subject with ultrasonic waves, and a drug administered into a blood vessel by irradiating the treatment region of the subject with ultrasound.
  • a control panel for inputting the irradiation conditions to be introduced into the device, a control device for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation position on the treatment area, a control device for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation based on the irradiation conditions, and supplying power to the vibrator and the control device
  • the ultrasonic transmission surface of the vibrator is attached to the body surface in close contact with or embedded in the body corresponding to the treatment area of the subject.
  • the subject since it is possible to perform treatment for introducing a medicine by irradiating ultrasonic waves with a medicine introduction device attached to the subject, the subject can move, and the operator can attach to the subject. There is no need to be attached. As a result, the burden on the operator and the subject can be reduced, and the usability of the apparatus can be improved.
  • the control device irradiates the treatment area with ultrasonic waves based on the ultrasonic irradiation conditions set by the control panel, for example, the ultrasonic irradiation intensity, the irradiation cycle, and the irradiation timing.
  • the ultrasonic irradiation intensity for example, the ultrasonic intensity, the irradiation cycle, and the irradiation timing.
  • the irradiation range of the ultrasonic wave is set based on the depth range and the spread range from the body surface of the treatment area obtained by another medical device.
  • the belt provided on the drug introduction device can be wound around the body surface of the subject.
  • the drug introduction device when mounted in the body of the subject, the subject can be cut open and implanted subcutaneously.
  • medical agent introduction apparatus the position where a treatment area
  • the irradiation range can be set. For example, an ultrasonic image of a reference treatment area is input in advance, and the position of the current treatment area can be obtained by comparing the ultrasonic image with the generated ultrasonic image. Can be irradiated. According to this, even if the treatment region moves due to body movement such as breathing of the subject, the position of the treatment region can be tracked, so that the treatment region can be irradiated with ultrasonic waves reliably.
  • a reflected echo signal is transmitted by wireless communication to an external drug introduction control device, an ultrasonic image is generated by the external drug introduction control device, and the position of the treatment area on the ultrasonic image is obtained and obtained.
  • This position can be used as an ultrasonic irradiation position.
  • the ultrasonic image is generated by an external device, it is not necessary to provide a device for generating an ultrasonic image in the drug introduction device attached to the subject, and thus the drug introduction device can be miniaturized.
  • the drug introduction device is implanted in the body, it is desirable to reduce the size of the device. Therefore, it is preferable to generate an ultrasonic image using an external device.
  • the ultrasonic wave can be configured to detect the drug concentration in the blood in the treatment area and irradiate ultrasonic waves when the detected concentration reaches the set concentration. According to this, since the irradiation timing of the ultrasonic wave is determined based on the actual drug concentration in the treatment region, the accuracy of the irradiation timing can be improved as compared with the case where the ultrasonic wave irradiation timing is set in advance.
  • it can replace with the chemical
  • a component whose concentration varies depending on the drug such as red blood cells and white blood cells, can be adopted as the indicator component.
  • the ultrasonic contrast agent when a drug is administered into a blood vessel of a subject together with an ultrasonic contrast agent in a bubble, the ultrasonic contrast agent is expanded and contracted to move with the drug.
  • the ultrasonic contrast medium bubbles can be ruptured by irradiating ultrasonic waves with a second intensity higher than the irradiation intensity of 1. According to this, the contact property between the cell to be treated and the drug is enhanced by the ultrasonic wave having the first irradiation intensity, and the drug easily enters the cell.
  • the drug enters the cell due to the impact, so the drug is introduced into the cell. Can be further promoted.
  • a tank for storing a medicine mixed with a medicine or a bubble ultrasound contrast agent, and an administration device for administering the medicine in the tank or a medicine mixed with a bubble ultrasound contrast agent into a blood vessel of a subject. can be provided. According to this, since the medicine can be administered by the medicine introduction device attached to the subject and the medicine can be administered without going to the hospital or the like, the burden on the subject can be further reduced.
  • the administration of the drug can be controlled based on a preset time or cycle. Further, in the case where a sensor for detecting the concentration of a drug in blood or the concentration of a preset index component in blood is provided in the drug introduction device, the drug can be controlled to be administered when the detected concentration falls below a set value.
  • the drug introduction system of the present invention is configured so that the drug introduction device and the drug introduction control device can wirelessly communicate with each other, and the drug introduction device includes a vibrator that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, A control device that controls the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave based on the treatment area of the subject and the ultrasonic wave irradiation condition transmitted from the communication device of the introduction control device, and a battery that supplies power to the vibrator and the control device,
  • the ultrasonic wave transmission / reception surface of the vibrator is attached to the body surface in close contact with the treatment area of the subject or embedded in the body, and the medicine introduction control device transmits from the communication device of the medicine introduction device.
  • a generation device that generates an ultrasonic image based on the reflected echo signal of the ultrasonic wave, a display device that displays the ultrasonic image, a treatment area of the subject is set on the ultrasonic image, and the treatment area is Apply sound waves
  • the drug administered to the tube characterized in that it comprises a control panel for inputting irradiation conditions to be introduced into the cell.
  • the drug introduction apparatus can be further reduced in size as compared with the drug introduction apparatus having the control panel described above. It should be noted that any one of the above-described drug introduction devices can be appropriately selected and used as the drug introduction device used in the present drug introduction system.
  • the present invention it is possible to reduce the burden on the operator and the subject at the time of performing treatment for introducing a drug into cells using ultrasonic waves, and it is possible to improve usability.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a drug introduction device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • Conceptual diagram explaining the irradiation range of ultrasonic waves Block diagram of the drug introduction device of Embodiment 2 of the present invention
  • Block diagram of the drug introduction device of Embodiment 5 of the present invention The figure which shows the state which mounted
  • FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a modification of the medicine introduction device according to the fifth embodiment.
  • the figure which shows the modification of irradiation control of FIG. Block diagram showing a drug introduction system of Embodiment 7 of the present invention
  • Embodiment 1 is a drug introduction device 1 attached to the outer skin (body surface) of a subject.
  • the drug introduction device 1 inputs a transducer unit 3 in which a plurality of transducers are arranged, and an irradiation condition for introducing a drug administered into the blood vessel by irradiating the treatment area 4 of the subject into the cell.
  • the transducer unit 3 has an ultrasonic transmission surface formed by two-dimensionally arranging a plurality of transducers that are in close contact with the skin of the subject.
  • Each transducer is connected to the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 so that driving power is supplied from the battery device 15 via the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9.
  • the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 supplies transmission power to each transducer by performing transmission processing such as focus processing and amplification processing based on a control signal input from the microcomputer 7.
  • the control panel 5 is configured so that an operator such as a doctor can input and set information on the treatment area 4, ultrasonic waves, and irradiation conditions to the microcomputer 7.
  • the information of the treatment region 4 is, for example, a depth range and a spread range from the body surface of the treatment region 4 shown in FIG. 3, and the irradiation conditions are, for example, the irradiation intensity of ultrasonic waves, the repetition cycle of irradiation, It is irradiation timing, such as irradiation start time and irradiation end time.
  • the microcomputer 7 controls the ultrasonic irradiation range within the treatment area 4 based on the input information of the treatment area 4, and transmits a control signal for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation based on the irradiation conditions.
  • the signal is output to the circuit 9.
  • the battery device 15 includes a battery 11 that supplies power to the vibrator unit 3, the microcomputer 7, the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9, and the like, and a battery control circuit 13 that controls charging / discharging of the battery 11.
  • the drug introduction device 1 is formed, for example, by housing the vibrator unit 3, the control panel 5, the microcomputer 7, the battery device 15 and the like in a case. Further, a belt 19 is provided in which the ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving surface of the transducer unit 3 is brought into close contact with the outer skin of the subject, and the drug introduction device 1 is fixedly attached to the subject. It is preferable that the ultrasonic transmission surface of the transducer unit 3 is exposed from the case.
  • the belt 19 is formed in, for example, a flat belt shape, and is wound around the subject and attached so that the drug introduction device 1 is in close contact with the body surface of the subject.
  • One end of the belt 19 is fixed to the case of the drug introduction device 1.
  • the other end is detachably formed in the case of the drug introduction device 1, and the winding length can be adjusted according to the attachment / detachment position.
  • the wrapping length is adjusted according to the position corresponding to the treatment region, and the drug introduction device 1 can be attached to the subject.
  • the belt 19 since the thickness of the winding position changes due to body movement such as breathing, the belt 19 can be formed of a flexible material so that the change due to the body movement can be absorbed.
  • the operation of the drug introduction device 1 configured as described above will be described along with a treatment method for introducing a drug into cells using ultrasonic waves.
  • the drug used in this treatment method is a drug injected into a blood vessel.
  • an anticancer drug that enters the cancer cell to be treated and suppresses the growth of the cancer cell, or a cancer cell.
  • Such a drug comprises a ligand that specifically binds to a specific receptor (receptor) of a cancer cell.
  • drugs that have come into contact with cancer cells bind to cancer cells, and drugs that have not come into contact return to the treatment area 4 again by blood circulation, so the number of drugs that bind to cancer cells gradually increases. To do. Thereby, the drug is accumulated in a region where cancer cells are present.
  • the drug is introduced into the cancer cell by accelerating the entrance of the drug into the cancer cell by irradiating ultrasonic waves. Therefore, the desired introduction efficiency can be ensured by irradiating the ultrasonic wave after the drug is accumulated in the region where the cancer cells are present and the drug concentration reaches the set concentration.
  • the irradiation of ultrasonic waves is waited until the drug concentration reaches the set concentration.
  • the time until the blood concentration of the drug is halved (half-life) is several hours to several tens of hours, if the treatment is continued during that time, the irradiation time of ultrasonic waves becomes longer.
  • the treatment area 4 and the drug to be used for treatment are determined based on the examination performed before the treatment. Further, the irradiation condition of the ultrasonic wave is determined based on the treatment region 4 and the medicine used for the treatment.
  • Information on the treatment region 4 such as the depth range and spread range from the body surface of the treatment region 4 and the irradiation conditions such as the irradiation intensity of the ultrasonic wave, the repetition period of irradiation, and the irradiation timing are displayed via the control panel 5. Input settings are made to the computer 7.
  • the ultrasonic transmission surface is brought into close contact with the outer skin at a position where the treatment area 4 falls within the ultrasonic irradiation possible range, and the belt 19 is wound around the subject to introduce the drug. Attach 1 to the subject.
  • the information on the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1 and the treatment region 4 can be obtained based on, for example, an image of another medical device such as an X-ray CT device obtained by an examination before treatment.
  • the treatment region 4 is identified on the image, and the position where the treatment region 4 falls within the ultrasonic irradiation possible range is set as the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1. Then, the depth range and the spread range of the treatment region 4 at the mounting position are used as information on the treatment region 4.
  • the microcomputer 7 focuses on the treatment area 4 based on the input information about the treatment area 4 and determines the condition of the focus process.
  • the microcomputer 7 outputs a control signal generated based on the focus processing condition and the irradiation condition to the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9.
  • the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 applies a voltage to the transducer unit 3 based on the input control signal, and irradiates the treatment region 4 with the convergent beam 17 focused in the treatment region 4 .
  • the entry of the drug into the cancer cell in the treatment region 4 can be promoted by the vibration of the drug near the focal point.
  • the introduction of the drug into the cancer cells in the entire treatment region 4 can be promoted by irradiating the ultrasonic wave with changing the focus to other positions in the treatment region 4.
  • the apparatus for irradiating ultrasonic waves is separated from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and attached to the subject, the subject can move and the operator does not need to stick to the subject. Therefore, the burden on the operator and the subject can be reduced, and the usability of the apparatus used for introducing the drug can be improved.
  • the introduction of the drug into the cells can be promoted by irradiating with ultrasonic waves, the dose of the drug can be suppressed. That is, when a drug that is difficult to be introduced into cells is used, the dose may be increased to promote the introduction of the drug into the cells, which may increase the probability of side effects.
  • the introduction of the drug into the cells can be promoted by irradiating the ultrasonic wave, the dose of the drug can be reduced as compared with the case where the ultrasonic wave is not irradiated, and the probability of occurrence of a side effect can be reduced.
  • the drug when the ultrasonic wave is irradiated, the drug is introduced into the cell and the drug concentration in the treatment area 4 decreases.However, when a drug with a long half-life is used, the drug circulates in the body, so the treatment area 4 The drug accumulates again. By preliminarily obtaining this accumulation period through experiments or the like and setting the obtained period as the repetition period of irradiation, it is possible to irradiate ultrasonic waves each time the medicine is accumulated in the treatment region 4 and to automatically continue the treatment.
  • the irradiation timing of the ultrasonic wave is set such that the time when the drug concentration in the treatment region 4 becomes the set concentration is set as the irradiation start time, and the drug concentration in the body does not reach the set concentration.
  • the time to decrease can be set as the irradiation stop time.
  • the number and arrangement of transducers forming the transducer unit 3 can be appropriately selected depending on the size of the treatment region 4. For example, when the treatment region 4 is narrow, the transducer unit 3 formed by arranging a plurality of transducers in a one-dimensional manner or the transducer unit 3 formed by a single transducer can be used.
  • the vibrator can be appropriately selected from a piezoelectric element (PZT) or a capacitive vibration element (cMUT cell).
  • PZT piezoelectric element
  • cMUT cell capacitive vibration element
  • the vibrator unit 3 can be reduced in size by using the cMUT cell.
  • the cMUT cell is produced using a semiconductor substrate, it does not contain a lead component unlike PZT, and therefore, even if the cMUT cell is destroyed, there is little toxic effect on the living body.
  • the control panel 5 can be a known input device such as a keyboard or a touch panel.
  • the power source of the drug introduction device 1 is not limited to a secondary battery such as the battery 11, and a primary battery can be used.
  • the battery 11 and the charger can be connected by a wire so that the battery 11 can be charged.
  • it can be configured to adjust the transmission waveform and transmission duty of the ultrasonic wave irradiated to the treatment region 4 based on the irradiation conditions.
  • the treatment target of the drug introduction device 1 is not limited to cancer cells, and other diseases can be treated.
  • the drug introduction device 1 is mounted on the outer skin of the subject, but can be implanted in the body of the subject at a position corresponding to the treatment region 4.
  • a communication device capable of wireless communication is provided in the drug introduction device 1, and the treatment region 4 and the irradiation condition of the ultrasonic wave are input and set in the microcomputer 7 with the drug introduction control device provided outside.
  • the drug introduction device 1 of the first embodiment since the drug introduction device 1 of the first embodiment only irradiates the set position with ultrasonic waves having a set intensity, it can be reduced in size as compared with the ultrasonic diagnostic device and can be easily attached to the subject.
  • the fixture for mounting the drug introduction device 1 on the body surface of the subject is not limited to a belt, and a tape or the like can be used.
  • Embodiment 2 With reference to FIG. 4, the drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 2 will be described.
  • an ultrasonic wave receiving circuit that forms a vibrator unit 3 with a vibrator capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves and receives a reflected echo signal of the ultrasonic wave received by the vibrator unit 3 21 is provided, an ultrasonic image is generated based on the reflected echo signal received by the ultrasonic receiving circuit 21, the treatment region 4 is set based on the generated ultrasonic image, and the irradiation position is determined. It is. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
  • the ultrasonic receiving circuit 21 receives a reflected echo signal and performs reception processing such as amplification.
  • the reflected echo signal received and processed by the ultrasonic receiving circuit 21 is input to the microcomputer 7, and the microcomputer 7 generates an ultrasonic image based on the input reflected echo signal.
  • the microcomputer 7 stores a reference ultrasonic image of the treatment area 4 and identifies the current position of the treatment area 4 as compared with the generated ultrasonic image.
  • the microcomputer 7 compares the reference ultrasonic image of the treatment area 4 with the generated ultrasonic image to obtain the current position of the treatment area 4, and uses that position as the ultrasonic irradiation position. Sound wave irradiation can be controlled. For example, when the treatment area 4 moves due to body movement such as respiration, it is necessary to track the treatment area 4 and change the irradiation position of the ultrasonic waves.
  • the treatment region 4 can be reliably irradiated with the ultrasonic wave.
  • the treatment region 4 can be tracked using a known method such as a method used for wall motion analysis in the circulatory region.
  • a communication device may be provided in the medicine introduction device 1 so that the generated ultrasonic image is transmitted to an external display device for display.
  • the position of the drug introduction device 1 can be adjusted while looking at the ultrasonic image in the body of the subject, so it is surely attached to the position corresponding to the treatment region 4 it can.
  • the operator can surround the treatment area 4 on the ultrasonic image and set the treatment area 4 in the microcomputer 7, the usability can be improved as compared with the case where the coordinate information of the treatment area 4 is input.
  • Embodiment 3 The drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 3 will be described with reference to FIG.
  • the difference between the third embodiment and the second embodiment is that the microcomputer 7 does not generate an ultrasonic image and transmits the reflected echo signal wirelessly to the medicine introduction control device 25 provided outside via the communication device 23.
  • the medicine introduction control device 25 generates an ultrasonic image.
  • the generated ultrasonic image is input and set to the microcomputer 7 via the communication device, and the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave is determined. Since other configurations are the same as those of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
  • the ultrasonic image generation function can be omitted from the microcomputer 7, the drug introduction device 1 can be downsized as compared with the second embodiment.
  • the drug introduction device 1 when the drug introduction device 1 is implanted in the body, it is preferable to reduce the size of the device. Therefore, it is preferable to generate an ultrasonic image using an external device.
  • the generated ultrasonic image is displayed on the medicine introduction control device 25, the operator specifies the treatment region 4 on the ultrasonic image, and only the coordinate information of the specified treatment region 4 is micro-transmitted via the communication device 23.
  • the irradiation range can be set by inputting settings to the computer 7. According to this, since it is not necessary to store the reference ultrasonic image of the treatment region 4 in the microcomputer 7, the drug introduction device 1 can be further downsized.
  • an ultrasonic image display device can be provided in the medicine introduction control device 25, and ultrasonic waves can be transmitted and received while the medicine introduction device 1 is moved, and the ultrasonic image can be displayed on the display device.
  • the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1 is determined while observing the ultrasonic image at the current position of the drug introduction device 1, and the treatment such as the expansion range and depth range of the treatment region 4 from the ultrasonic image at the mounting position is determined.
  • the information on the area 4 can be obtained and the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave can be set.
  • the irradiation position can be set while viewing the actual ultrasonic image at the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1, it is possible to reliably irradiate the treatment region 4 with ultrasonic waves.
  • the drug introduction device 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
  • the difference between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment is that a concentration sensor 27 that detects a drug concentration in the blood in the vicinity of the treatment region 4 is provided, and ultrasonic irradiation is controlled according to the detection value of the concentration sensor 27. Is a point. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
  • the concentration sensor 27 is provided with a needle 31, and blood in the blood vessel is collected through the needle 31 at a set cycle.
  • the concentration sensor 27 detects the concentration of the drug in the collected blood and inputs it to the microcomputer 7.
  • the microcomputer 7 determines whether or not the input drug concentration is within the set concentration range, and when the concentration detected by the concentration sensor 27 is within the set concentration range, the irradiation of ultrasonic waves is started. On the other hand, when the concentration detected by the concentration sensor 27 is outside the set concentration range, control is performed so as not to irradiate the ultrasonic wave or to stop the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave.
  • the irradiation timing of the ultrasonic wave is determined based on the actual drug concentration in the treatment region 4, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the irradiation timing as compared with the case where the ultrasonic wave irradiation timing is set in advance. it can.
  • concentration sensor 27 for example, a known sensor such as a sensor that detects a concentration by detecting a label such as a fluorescent label of a drug can be used.
  • the drug concentration in the blood it is possible to detect the preset concentration of the indicator component in the blood in the treatment region 4 and irradiate the ultrasonic wave when the detected concentration reaches the set concentration.
  • a component whose concentration varies depending on the drug such as red blood cells and white blood cells, can be used as an indicator component.
  • the drug optical sensor 33 is connected to the concentration sensor 27, light is irradiated from the drug optical sensor 33 toward the blood vessel, and based on the reflected light, It is possible to detect a drug concentration or a preset concentration of an indicator component in blood. According to this, the risk of infectious disease by collecting blood can be reduced.
  • the range of the drug concentration in the blood for controlling the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave can be appropriately selected depending on the cell to be treated, the type of drug used for the treatment, and the like. Further, as the drug concentration in the blood decreases, control such as increasing the number of times of ultrasonic irradiation can be performed.
  • the drug introduction device 1 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
  • the difference between the fifth embodiment and the fourth embodiment is that the drug introduction device 1 is embedded in the body of the subject.
  • the control panel 5 is installed outside the body, and the control panel 5 and the microcomputer 7 are formed so as to be capable of wireless communication with each other.
  • a tank 45 in which a medicine is stored, and an administration device 43 that administers the medicine in the tank 45 into the blood vessel of the subject are provided.
  • the battery device 15 is provided with a charging coil 53 capable of wireless charging. Since other configurations are the same as those of the fourth embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
  • the information on the treatment area 4 and the irradiation condition information input to the control panel 5 are input and set to the microcomputer 7 wirelessly via the communication device 41.
  • the administration device 43 is provided with a pump 47 for sucking out the medicine in the tank 45.
  • a needle 49 is connected to the pump 47 so that a drug can be administered from the needle 49 into the blood vessel.
  • the battery 11 can be charged with the electric power generated by the charging coil 53 of the battery device 15.
  • the microcomputer 7 controls the administration of the drug into the blood vessel by driving the administration device 43. Thereafter, when the drug concentration in the blood exceeds the set concentration, control for stopping the drug administration is performed.
  • the drug can be administered under the administration conditions set by the microcomputer 7 by inputting and setting the administration conditions of the drug, for example, the administration speed and the like from the control panel 5 to the microcomputer 7.
  • the drug can be administered by the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject and the drug can be administered without going to a hospital or the like, for example, the burden on the subject when performing home treatment can be further reduced.
  • the administration of the drug is controlled based on the drug concentration in the blood, but instead, the drug can be administered based on a preset time or cycle.
  • the administration time or administration cycle is input and set from the control panel 5 to the microcomputer 7.
  • the drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 5 can be attached outside the body instead of inside the body.
  • the drug introduction device 1 without the tank 45 and the administration device 43 can be provided in the body of the subject.
  • the medicine can be regularly administered by a doctor or the like.
  • a medicine mixed with the bubble ultrasound contrast agent can be stored in the tank 45 and administered to the subject.
  • Embodiment 6 As Embodiment 6, an example of irradiation control of ultrasonic irradiation will be described.
  • the sequence of ultrasonic irradiation in FIG. 11 is an example in the case of using the drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 5 and administering a drug mixed with a bubble ultrasonic contrast agent to a subject.
  • the ultrasonic contrast agent for bubbles used in Embodiment 6 can move with the agent and pass through the vessel wall of the blood vessel, for example, a contrast agent that can modify the agent or a contrast agent that can enclose the agent inside.
  • a contrast agent can be used.
  • the microcomputer 7 When the administration of the medicine in which the ultrasound contrast agent is mixed into the blood vessel is started from the administration device 43 by the microcomputer 7 (T0-0), the concentration of the medicine in the blood increases.
  • the blood drug concentration is input from the concentration sensor 27 to the microcomputer 7.
  • the microcomputer 7 stops the administration device 43 and stops the administration of the medicine.
  • the microcomputer 7 performs control to irradiate the ultrasonic wave (medium sound pressure ultrasonic wave) set to the first irradiation intensity ( T1-0).
  • the medium sound pressure ultrasonic wave is set to an irradiation intensity at which bubbles of the ultrasonic contrast agent are repeatedly compressed and expanded, so that the drug mixed with the ultrasonic contrast agent moves in the blood vessel due to expansion and contraction of the bubbles.
  • the drug can be diffused toward the vessel wall of the blood vessel together with the ultrasound contrast agent, and the probability that the drug and the cell to be treated (target cell) come into contact with each other can be increased. it can.
  • the microcomputer 7 sets the ultrasonic wave set to the second irradiation intensity higher than the first irradiation intensity (high sound pressure super (Sound wave) is controlled (T2-0). Thereby, the ultrasonic contrast agent of the bubble of the medicine couple
  • the microcomputer 7 controls the administration device 43 to resume the administration of the drug (T0-1), as described above. Repeat the ultrasonic irradiation control.
  • the drug flowing along the blood vessel can be diffused to increase the probability that the cell to be treated is in contact with the drug, the drug concentration in the treatment region 4 can be increased.
  • the bubbles of the ultrasonic contrast agent are ruptured in this state, the drug enters the cell due to the impact, so that the introduction of the drug into the cell can be further promoted.
  • the pyrogen concentration in the blood of the subject may increase due to the drug administration.
  • the concentration of the pyrogen in the blood can be detected by the concentration sensor 27, and the detected value can be input to the microcomputer 7 to control the irradiation of ultrasonic waves.
  • Embodiment 7 A drug introduction system in which the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject and the drug introduction control device 61 provided outside are configured to be capable of wireless communication will be described as Embodiment 7 with reference to FIG.
  • the same thing as the above-mentioned embodiment attaches
  • the drug introduction system is configured such that the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject and the drug introduction control device 61 operated by the operator can communicate with each other wirelessly.
  • the drug introduction device 1 is transmitted from the vibrator unit 3 that transmits / receives ultrasonic waves to / from the subject and the communication device 63 of the drug introduction control device 61 to the information on the treatment area 4 of the subject and the irradiation conditions of the ultrasonic waves.
  • a microcomputer 7 that controls the irradiation of ultrasonic waves based on the above, and a battery that supplies power to the vibrator unit 3 and the microcomputer 7 are provided.
  • the transducer unit 3 is connected to the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 and the ultrasonic reception circuit 21, and emits ultrasonic waves based on the control signal of the microcomputer 7 and outputs a reflected echo signal to the microcomputer 7. ing.
  • a communication device 55 is connected to the microcomputer 7 so that it can communicate with the medicine introduction control device 61 wirelessly.
  • the drug introduction device 1 configured as described above is mounted with the ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving surface of the transducer unit 3 in close contact with the body surface corresponding to the treatment region 4 of the subject or embedded in the body.
  • the drug introduction control device 61 sets the treatment region 4 on the ultrasonic image, and the generation device 65 that generates an ultrasonic image based on the reflected echo signal of the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the communication device 55 of the drug introduction device 1.
  • a control panel 5 is also provided for inputting irradiation conditions for irradiating the treatment region 4 with ultrasonic waves and introducing a drug administered into the blood vessel into the cells.
  • the generation device 65 receives the reflected echo signal received by the communication device 63, and generates an ultrasonic image based on the input reflected echo signal.
  • the control panel 5 is, for example, a touch panel, and displays an ultrasonic image generated by the generation device 65 so that a doctor or the like can specify information on the treatment region 4 on the ultrasonic image.
  • the control panel 5 can input irradiation conditions.
  • the control panel 5 is configured to input and set the irradiation range and irradiation conditions to the microcomputer 7 via the communication devices 55 and 63.
  • the drug introduction device 1 is mounted outside or inside the subject by an operator such as a doctor. At this time, the operator can input an ultrasonic image generation command to the control panel 5 and adjust the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1 while viewing the ultrasonic image of the subject. After mounting the drug introduction device 1, based on the ultrasound image generation command input to the control panel 5, the subject is irradiated with ultrasound of the set conditions, and the ultrasound image is based on the reflected echo signal. Generate. The generated ultrasonic image is displayed on the control panel 5, and the control panel 5 determines the irradiation range of the ultrasonic wave based on the information on the treatment area 4 designated on the displayed ultrasonic image.
  • the control panel 5 inputs and sets the irradiation condition information input by the operator to the microcomputer 7 via the communication devices 55 and 63 together with the irradiation range information. After the setting from the drug introduction control device 61 is completed, the drug introduction device 1 irradiates the subject with ultrasonic waves based on the set irradiation range and irradiation conditions.
  • the ultrasonic wave irradiation necessary for the drug introduction into the cell is automatically performed by the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject, the burden on the operator and the subject can be reduced. Furthermore, since the control panel 5 and the generation device 65 are provided in the medicine introduction control device 61 provided outside, the medicine introduction device 1 attached to the subject can be reduced in size. In particular, when the drug introduction device 1 is embedded in the body of a subject, it is desired to reduce the size, and therefore it is preferable to provide the control panel 5, the generation device 65, and the like outside.
  • the drug introduction device used in the drug introduction system can be applied by appropriately selecting the drug introduction device of the above-described first to sixth embodiments.

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Abstract

Provided is a drug injection apparatus, in order to reduce stress of an operator and a patient when performing a treatment involving injection of a drug into cells using ultrasonic waves, and to improve usability, being provided with: a vibrator unit (3) which projects ultrasonic waves onto the patient; a control panel (5) for entering projection conditions for the projection of ultrasonic waves onto a treatment region (4) of the patient, and the injection of the drug, administered in the blood vessels, into cells; a microcomputer (7) which controls the projecting position of the ultrasonic waves to be in the treatment region (4), and also controls the projection of the ultrasonic waves on the basis of the projection conditions; and a battery (11) which supplies power to the vibrator unit (3) and the microcomputer (7). By use of this drug injection apparatus where the ultrasonic wave transmitting surface of the vibrator unit (3) is either worn with fitting closely on the surface of the body or embedded within the body depending on the treatment region (4) of the patient, stress of the operator and the patient is reduced, and usability is improved.

Description

薬剤導入装置及び薬剤導入システムDrug introduction device and drug introduction system
　本発明は、薬剤導入装置及び薬剤導入システムに係り、特に、超音波を用いて、薬剤の導入を促進する技術に関する。 The present invention relates to a drug introduction device and a drug introduction system, and more particularly to a technique for promoting introduction of a drug using ultrasonic waves.
　例えば、特許文献1には、抗がん剤や遺伝子治療に用いる遺伝子などの物質(以下、薬剤という。)を悪性腫瘍の細胞内に導入して悪性腫瘍を治療することが提案されている。
　特に、被検体の細胞内への薬剤の導入を促進するため、超音波診断装置を用い、静脈から被検体に投与した薬剤が悪性腫瘍の存在する治療領域に到達したときに、超音波を所定時間照射して、薬剤の悪性腫瘍の細胞内への導入を促進することが提案されている。また、同文献によれば、被検体の体表面に超音波探触子を密着させて悪性腫瘍のある領域に超音波を照射し、その反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成し、その超音波画像に基づいて治療領域と超音波の照射計画を設定するようにしている。 For example, Patent Document 1 proposes that a malignant tumor is treated by introducing a substance such as an anticancer agent or a gene used for gene therapy (hereinafter referred to as a drug) into the cells of the malignant tumor.
In particular, in order to promote the introduction of the drug into the cell of the subject, an ultrasonic diagnostic device is used, and when the drug administered from the vein to the subject reaches the treatment area where the malignant tumor exists, the ultrasonic wave is predetermined. It has been proposed to irradiate for a time to facilitate the introduction of drugs into cells of malignant tumors. Further, according to the same document, an ultrasonic probe is brought into close contact with the body surface of a subject, an ultrasonic wave is irradiated to a region having a malignant tumor, and an ultrasonic image is generated based on the reflected echo signal, A treatment area and an ultrasound irradiation plan are set based on the ultrasound image.
　ところで、特許文献1のような治療法に用いる薬剤は、一般に、悪性腫瘍の細胞と特異的に結合し、かつ、細胞内に入るように形成されている。そのため、薬剤を血管内に投与すると、薬剤は血液とともに体内を循環して悪性腫瘍の細胞に結合して細胞内に導入される。この際、薬剤は細胞内に入りにくいため、悪性腫瘍の細胞が存在する治療領域に薬剤が集積する。そこで、薬剤が集積した治療領域に超音波を照射することで、悪性腫瘍の細胞内への薬剤の導入を促進することができる。 By the way, a drug used in the treatment method as in Patent Document 1 is generally formed so as to specifically bind to a malignant tumor cell and enter the cell. Therefore, when a drug is administered into a blood vessel, the drug circulates in the body together with blood, binds to malignant tumor cells, and is introduced into the cells. At this time, since the drug does not easily enter the cell, the drug accumulates in the treatment area where cells of the malignant tumor are present. Therefore, by irradiating the treatment area where the drug is accumulated with ultrasonic waves, introduction of the drug into the cells of the malignant tumor can be promoted.
特開2004-261253号公報JP 2004-261253 A
　しかしながら、治療領域に集積するまでの時間が、例えば、数時間となる薬剤を用いる場合、特許文献1のように、薬剤が集積するまでの数時間、超音波の照射を待たなければならない。また、超音波を照射している間は、医師等の操作者は、超音波の照射位置が治療領域からずれないように超音波探触子を手で持ち続け、又は機械的な装置に保持させる必要がある。また、超音波を照射している間は患者等の被検体はベットから動くことができない。このように、特許文献1の技術によれば、治療中のおける操作者と被検体の負担があり、使い勝手の向上の余地がある。 However, when using a drug that takes several hours to accumulate in the treatment area, for example, as in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to wait for ultrasonic irradiation for several hours until the drug accumulates. In addition, while irradiating the ultrasonic wave, an operator such as a doctor keeps the ultrasonic probe by hand or holds it on a mechanical device so that the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave does not deviate from the treatment area. It is necessary to let Further, a subject such as a patient cannot move from the bed while the ultrasonic wave is irradiated. Thus, according to the technique of Patent Document 1, there is a burden on the operator and the subject during treatment, and there is room for improvement in usability.
　本発明が解決しようとする課題は、超音波を用いて細胞内に薬剤を導入する治療を行う際の操作者と被検体の負担を軽減して、使い勝手を向上させることにある。 The problem to be solved by the present invention is to improve the usability by reducing the burden on the operator and the subject when performing a treatment for introducing a drug into cells using ultrasound.
　上記の課題を解決するため、本発明の薬剤導入装置は、被検体に超音波を照射する振動子と、被検体の治療領域に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する照射条件を入力するコントロールパネルと、治療領域に超音波の照射位置を制御するとともに、照射条件に基づいて超音波の照射を制御する制御装置と、振動子と制御装置に電力を供給する電池とを備え、振動子の超音波送信面を被検体の治療領域に対応させて体表面に密着させて又は体内に埋め込んで装着されることを特徴とする。 In order to solve the above problems, the drug introduction device of the present invention includes a vibrator for irradiating a subject with ultrasonic waves, and a drug administered into a blood vessel by irradiating the treatment region of the subject with ultrasound. A control panel for inputting the irradiation conditions to be introduced into the device, a control device for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation position on the treatment area, a control device for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation based on the irradiation conditions, and supplying power to the vibrator and the control device The ultrasonic transmission surface of the vibrator is attached to the body surface in close contact with or embedded in the body corresponding to the treatment area of the subject.
　これによれば、被検体に装着した薬剤導入装置により超音波を照射して、薬剤を導入する治療を行うことができるから、被検体は動くことができ、かつ、操作者は被検体に張り付いている必要がない。その結果、操作者や被検体の負担を軽減でき、装置の使い勝手を向上できる。 According to this, since it is possible to perform treatment for introducing a medicine by irradiating ultrasonic waves with a medicine introduction device attached to the subject, the subject can move, and the operator can attach to the subject. There is no need to be attached. As a result, the burden on the operator and the subject can be reduced, and the usability of the apparatus can be improved.
　この場合において、制御装置は、コントロールパネルによって入力設定された超音波の照射条件、例えば、超音波の照射強度、照射周期、照射タイミングに基づいて、超音波を治療領域に照射する。特に、治療領域における薬剤濃度が設定濃度になるまでの時間を実験等で予め求め、その時間を照射タイミングとして設定することができる。また、超音波の照射範囲は、他の医療機器によって求めた治療領域の体表面からの深さ範囲と広がり範囲に基づいて設定する。 In this case, the control device irradiates the treatment area with ultrasonic waves based on the ultrasonic irradiation conditions set by the control panel, for example, the ultrasonic irradiation intensity, the irradiation cycle, and the irradiation timing. In particular, it is possible to obtain in advance an experiment or the like until the drug concentration in the treatment region reaches the set concentration, and set that time as the irradiation timing. Moreover, the irradiation range of the ultrasonic wave is set based on the depth range and the spread range from the body surface of the treatment area obtained by another medical device.
　また、薬剤導入装置を被検体の体表面に装着する場合は、薬剤導入装置に設けたベルトを被検体の体表面に巻き付けて装着することができる。また、薬剤導入装置を被検体の体内に装着する場合は、被検体を切開して皮下に埋め込むことができる。なお、薬剤導入装置を装着する際は、超音波の照射可能範囲に治療領域が入る位置を予め求め、その位置に薬剤導入装置を装着する。 Also, when the drug introduction device is mounted on the body surface of the subject, the belt provided on the drug introduction device can be wound around the body surface of the subject. When the drug introduction device is mounted in the body of the subject, the subject can be cut open and implanted subcutaneously. In addition, when mounting | wearing with a chemical | medical agent introduction apparatus, the position where a treatment area | region enters in the ultrasonic irradiation possible range is calculated | required previously, and a chemical | medical agent introduction apparatus is mounted | worn at that position.
　また、超音波を送受信可能な振動子を用い、被検体からの反射エコー信号を受信し、受信したエコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成し、この超音波画像に基づいて治療領域を求めて照射範囲を設定することができる。例えば、基準となる治療領域の超音波画像を予め入力し、その超音波画像と、生成した超音波画像を比較することで、現在の治療領域の位置を求めることができ、その位置に超音波を照射できる。これによれば、被検体の呼吸等の体動により治療領域が移動しても、治療領域の位置を追跡することができるから、治療領域に超音波を確実に照射することができる。 Also, using a transducer capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, receiving a reflected echo signal from the subject, generating an ultrasonic image based on the received echo signal, and determining a treatment region based on the ultrasonic image The irradiation range can be set. For example, an ultrasonic image of a reference treatment area is input in advance, and the position of the current treatment area can be obtained by comparing the ultrasonic image with the generated ultrasonic image. Can be irradiated. According to this, even if the treatment region moves due to body movement such as breathing of the subject, the position of the treatment region can be tracked, so that the treatment region can be irradiated with ultrasonic waves reliably.
　この場合において、外部に設けた薬剤導入制御装置に無線通信で反射エコー信号を送信し、外部の薬剤導入制御装置で超音波画像を生成し、超音波画像上の治療領域の位置を求め、求めた位置を超音波の照射位置とすることができる。これによれば、超音波画像は外部の装置で生成するから、被検体に装着する薬剤導入装置に超音波画像を生成する装置を設ける必要がないので、薬剤導入装置を小型化できる。特に、薬剤導入装置を体内に埋め込む場合は装置の小型化が要望されるから、超音波画像を外部の装置で生成することが好ましい。 In this case, a reflected echo signal is transmitted by wireless communication to an external drug introduction control device, an ultrasonic image is generated by the external drug introduction control device, and the position of the treatment area on the ultrasonic image is obtained and obtained. This position can be used as an ultrasonic irradiation position. According to this, since the ultrasonic image is generated by an external device, it is not necessary to provide a device for generating an ultrasonic image in the drug introduction device attached to the subject, and thus the drug introduction device can be miniaturized. In particular, when the drug introduction device is implanted in the body, it is desirable to reduce the size of the device. Therefore, it is preferable to generate an ultrasonic image using an external device.
　また、治療領域における血液中の薬剤濃度を検出し、検出濃度が設定濃度になったら超音波を照射するように構成できる。これによれば、治療領域の実際の薬剤濃度に基づいて超音波の照射タイミングを決定するから、超音波の照射タイミングを予め設定する場合に比べて、照射タイミングの正確性を向上できる。なお、血液中の薬剤濃度に代えて、治療領域における予め設定した血液中の指標成分の濃度を検出し、検出濃度が設定濃度になったら超音波を照射するように構成できる。この場合、赤血球、白血球等、薬剤によって濃度が変化する成分を指標成分として採用できる。 Also, it can be configured to detect the drug concentration in the blood in the treatment area and irradiate ultrasonic waves when the detected concentration reaches the set concentration. According to this, since the irradiation timing of the ultrasonic wave is determined based on the actual drug concentration in the treatment region, the accuracy of the irradiation timing can be improved as compared with the case where the ultrasonic wave irradiation timing is set in advance. In addition, it can replace with the chemical | medical agent density | concentration in the blood, and it can comprise so that the density | concentration of the parameter | index component in the blood set beforehand in the treatment area | region may be detected, and an ultrasonic wave may be irradiated when a detected density | concentration becomes a setting density | concentration. In this case, a component whose concentration varies depending on the drug, such as red blood cells and white blood cells, can be adopted as the indicator component.
　また、気泡の超音波造影剤とともに薬剤を被検体の血管内に投与する場合、超音波造影剤の気泡が伸縮して薬剤とともに移動する第1の照射強度で超音波を照射した後、この第1の照射強度よりも強い第2の強度で超音波を照射して超音波造影剤の気泡を破裂させるこができる。これによれば、第1の照射強度の超音波により治療対象の細胞と薬剤の接触性を高め、薬剤が細胞内へ進入しやすくする。そして、設定時間が経過した後に、第2の照射強度の超音波を照射して超音波造影剤の気泡を破裂させると、その衝撃により細胞内に薬剤が進入するから、細胞内への薬剤導入を一層促進できる。 In addition, when a drug is administered into a blood vessel of a subject together with an ultrasonic contrast agent in a bubble, the ultrasonic contrast agent is expanded and contracted to move with the drug. The ultrasonic contrast medium bubbles can be ruptured by irradiating ultrasonic waves with a second intensity higher than the irradiation intensity of 1. According to this, the contact property between the cell to be treated and the drug is enhanced by the ultrasonic wave having the first irradiation intensity, and the drug easily enters the cell. Then, after the set time has elapsed, when the ultrasonic contrast agent bubbles are ruptured by irradiating the ultrasonic wave of the second irradiation intensity, the drug enters the cell due to the impact, so the drug is introduced into the cell. Can be further promoted.
　また、薬剤又は気泡の超音波造影剤が混合された薬剤が収容されるタンクと、タンク内の薬剤又は気泡の超音波造影剤が混合された薬剤を被検体の血管内に投与する投与装置を設けることができる。これによれば、被検体に装着した薬剤導入装置で薬剤を投与でき、病院等に行くことなく薬剤を投与できるから、被検体の負担を一層軽減できる。なお、予め設定した時間又は周期等に基づいて薬剤の投与を制御できる。また、薬剤導入装置に、血液中の薬剤濃度又は血液中の予め設定された指標成分の濃度を検出するセンサを設ける場合は、検出濃度が設定値より低下したら薬剤を投与するように制御できる。 In addition, a tank for storing a medicine mixed with a medicine or a bubble ultrasound contrast agent, and an administration device for administering the medicine in the tank or a medicine mixed with a bubble ultrasound contrast agent into a blood vessel of a subject. Can be provided. According to this, since the medicine can be administered by the medicine introduction device attached to the subject and the medicine can be administered without going to the hospital or the like, the burden on the subject can be further reduced. The administration of the drug can be controlled based on a preset time or cycle. Further, in the case where a sensor for detecting the concentration of a drug in blood or the concentration of a preset index component in blood is provided in the drug introduction device, the drug can be controlled to be administered when the detected concentration falls below a set value.
　一方、本発明の薬剤導入システムは、薬剤導入装置と薬剤導入制御装置とが相互に無線通信可能に構成され、薬剤導入装置は、被検体との間で超音波を送受信する振動子と、薬剤導入制御装置の通信装置から送信された被検体の治療領域と超音波の照射条件に基づいて超音波の照射を制御する制御装置と、振動子と制御装置に電力を供給する電池とを備え、振動子の超音波送受信面を被検体の治療領域に対応させて体表面に密着させて又は体内に埋め込んで装着されるように構成され、薬剤導入制御装置は、薬剤導入装置の通信装置から送信された超音波の反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成する生成装置と、超音波画像を表示する表示装置と、超音波画像上に被検体の治療領域を設定するとともに、治療領域に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する照射条件を入力するコントロールパネルとを備えることを特徴とする。 On the other hand, the drug introduction system of the present invention is configured so that the drug introduction device and the drug introduction control device can wirelessly communicate with each other, and the drug introduction device includes a vibrator that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, A control device that controls the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave based on the treatment area of the subject and the ultrasonic wave irradiation condition transmitted from the communication device of the introduction control device, and a battery that supplies power to the vibrator and the control device, The ultrasonic wave transmission / reception surface of the vibrator is attached to the body surface in close contact with the treatment area of the subject or embedded in the body, and the medicine introduction control device transmits from the communication device of the medicine introduction device. A generation device that generates an ultrasonic image based on the reflected echo signal of the ultrasonic wave, a display device that displays the ultrasonic image, a treatment area of the subject is set on the ultrasonic image, and the treatment area is Apply sound waves The drug administered to the tube, characterized in that it comprises a control panel for inputting irradiation conditions to be introduced into the cell.
　これによれば、照射条件を入力するコントロールパネルを、被検体に装着される薬剤導入装置と別にできるから、上述したコントロールパネルを備える薬剤導入装置に比べて、薬剤導入装置を一層小型化できる。なお、本薬剤導入システムに用いる薬剤導入装置は、上述したいずれかの薬剤導入装置を適宜選択して用いることができる。 According to this, since the control panel for inputting the irradiation conditions can be separated from the drug introduction apparatus attached to the subject, the drug introduction apparatus can be further reduced in size as compared with the drug introduction apparatus having the control panel described above. It should be noted that any one of the above-described drug introduction devices can be appropriately selected and used as the drug introduction device used in the present drug introduction system.
　本発明によれば、超音波を用いて細胞内に薬剤を導入する治療を行う際の操作者と被検体の負担を軽減でき、使い勝手を向上できる。 According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the burden on the operator and the subject at the time of performing treatment for introducing a drug into cells using ultrasonic waves, and it is possible to improve usability.
本発明の実施形態1の薬剤導入装置のブロック図1 is a block diagram of a drug introduction device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 被検体の体表面に薬剤導入装置を装着した状態を示す図The figure which shows the state which mounted | wore the body surface of the subject with the chemical | medical agent introduction apparatus. 超音波の照射範囲を説明する概念図Conceptual diagram explaining the irradiation range of ultrasonic waves 本発明の実施形態2の薬剤導入装置のブロック図Block diagram of the drug introduction device of Embodiment 2 of the present invention 本発明の実施形態3の薬剤導入装置のブロック図Block diagram of the drug introduction device of Embodiment 3 of the present invention 本発明の実施形態4の薬剤導入装置のブロック図Block diagram of the drug introduction device of Embodiment 4 of the present invention 図6の薬剤導入装置の変形例を示すブロック図The block diagram which shows the modification of the chemical | medical agent introduction apparatus of FIG. 本発明の実施形態5の薬剤導入装置のブロック図Block diagram of the drug introduction device of Embodiment 5 of the present invention 被検体の体内に薬剤導入装置を装着した状態を示す図The figure which shows the state which mounted | wore the body of the test subject with the chemical | medical agent introduction apparatus. 実施形態5の薬剤導入装置の変形例を示すブロック図FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a modification of the medicine introduction device according to the fifth embodiment. 本発明の実施形態6の超音波の照射制御を示す図The figure which shows the irradiation control of the ultrasonic wave of Embodiment 6 of this invention 図11の照射制御の変形例を示す図The figure which shows the modification of irradiation control of FIG. 本発明の実施形態7の薬剤導入システムを示すブロック図Block diagram showing a drug introduction system of Embodiment 7 of the present invention
　以下、本発明を実施の形態に基づいて説明する。 Hereinafter, the present invention will be described based on embodiments.
　(実施形態1)
　図1、2に示すように、実施形態1は、被検体の外皮(体表面)に装着される薬剤導入装置1である。薬剤導入装置1は、複数の振動子が配列された振動子部3と、被検体の治療領域4に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する照射条件を入力するコントロールパネル5と、治療領域4に超音波の照射位置を制御するとともに、照射条件に基づいて超音波の照射を制御する制御装置であるマイクロコンピュータ7と、振動子部3とマイクロコンピュータ7に電力を供給する電池であるバッテリ11を含むバッテリ装置15とを備えている。 (Embodiment 1)
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, Embodiment 1 is a drug introduction device 1 attached to the outer skin (body surface) of a subject. The drug introduction device 1 inputs a transducer unit 3 in which a plurality of transducers are arranged, and an irradiation condition for introducing a drug administered into the blood vessel by irradiating the treatment area 4 of the subject into the cell. A control panel 5 for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation position on the treatment area 4 and a microcomputer 7 which is a control device for controlling the irradiation of ultrasonic waves based on the irradiation condition, the vibrator unit 3 and the microcomputer 7 And a battery device 15 including a battery 11 which is a battery for supplying power.
　振動子部3は、本実施形態では、被検体の皮膚に密着される複数の振動子を2次元に配列して形成された超音波送信面を有している。各振動子は、超音波送信回路9に接続され、超音波送信回路9を介してバッテリ装置15から駆動電力が供給されるようになっている。超音波送信回路9は、マイクロコンピュータ7から入力された制御信号に基づいて、フォーカス処理や増幅処理などの送信処理を行って各振動子に駆動電力を供給するようになっている。 In this embodiment, the transducer unit 3 has an ultrasonic transmission surface formed by two-dimensionally arranging a plurality of transducers that are in close contact with the skin of the subject. Each transducer is connected to the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 so that driving power is supplied from the battery device 15 via the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9. The ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 supplies transmission power to each transducer by performing transmission processing such as focus processing and amplification processing based on a control signal input from the microcomputer 7.
　コントロールパネル5は、マイクロコンピュータ7に医師等の操作者が治療領域4の情報と超音波と照射条件を入力設定できるようになっている。ここで、治療領域4の情報は、例えば、図3に示す治療領域4の体表面からの深さ範囲及び広がり範囲であり、照射条件は、例えば、超音波の照射強度、照射の繰り返し周期、照射開始時間及び照射終了時間等の照射タイミングである。マイクロコンピュータ7は、入力設定された治療領域4の情報に基づいて超音波の照射範囲を治療領域内4に制御するとともに、照射条件に基づいて超音波の照射を制御する制御信号を超音波送信回路9に出力するようになっている。 The control panel 5 is configured so that an operator such as a doctor can input and set information on the treatment area 4, ultrasonic waves, and irradiation conditions to the microcomputer 7. Here, the information of the treatment region 4 is, for example, a depth range and a spread range from the body surface of the treatment region 4 shown in FIG. 3, and the irradiation conditions are, for example, the irradiation intensity of ultrasonic waves, the repetition cycle of irradiation, It is irradiation timing, such as irradiation start time and irradiation end time. The microcomputer 7 controls the ultrasonic irradiation range within the treatment area 4 based on the input information of the treatment area 4, and transmits a control signal for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation based on the irradiation conditions. The signal is output to the circuit 9.
　バッテリ装置15は、振動子部3とマイクロコンピュータ7と超音波送信回路9等に電力を供給するバッテリ11と、バッテリ11の充放電を制御するバッテリ制御回路13を備えている。　
　薬剤導入装置1は、例えば、振動子部3、コントロールパネル5、マイクロコンピュータ7、バッテリ装置15等をケースに収容して形成されている。また、振動子部3の超音波送受信面を被検体の外皮に密着させて、薬剤導入装置1を被検体に固定して装着するベルト19を備えている。なお、振動子部3の超音波送信面をケースから露出させて構成することが好ましい。 The battery device 15 includes a battery 11 that supplies power to the vibrator unit 3, the microcomputer 7, the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9, and the like, and a battery control circuit 13 that controls charging / discharging of the battery 11.
The drug introduction device 1 is formed, for example, by housing the vibrator unit 3, the control panel 5, the microcomputer 7, the battery device 15 and the like in a case. Further, a belt 19 is provided in which the ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving surface of the transducer unit 3 is brought into close contact with the outer skin of the subject, and the drug introduction device 1 is fixedly attached to the subject. It is preferable that the ultrasonic transmission surface of the transducer unit 3 is exposed from the case.
　ベルト19は、例えば、平帯状に形成され、被検体に巻き付けて被検体の体表面に薬剤導入装置1を密着させて装着するようになっている。ベルト19の一端は、薬剤導入装置1のケースに固定されている。他端は、薬剤導入装置1のケースに着脱自由に形成され、着脱位置に応じて巻き付け長さを調整可能になっている。これにより、治療領域に対応する位置に応じて巻き付け長さを調整して、薬剤導入装置1を被検体に装着可能になっている。なお、呼吸等の体動によって巻き付け位置の太さが変わるので、この体動による変化を吸収できるように柔軟性を有する材質でベルト19を形成することができる。 The belt 19 is formed in, for example, a flat belt shape, and is wound around the subject and attached so that the drug introduction device 1 is in close contact with the body surface of the subject. One end of the belt 19 is fixed to the case of the drug introduction device 1. The other end is detachably formed in the case of the drug introduction device 1, and the winding length can be adjusted according to the attachment / detachment position. As a result, the wrapping length is adjusted according to the position corresponding to the treatment region, and the drug introduction device 1 can be attached to the subject. In addition, since the thickness of the winding position changes due to body movement such as breathing, the belt 19 can be formed of a flexible material so that the change due to the body movement can be absorbed.
　このように構成される薬剤導入装置1の作用を、超音波を用いて細胞内に薬剤を導入する治療法に沿って説明する。本治療法に用いる薬剤は、血管内に注入される薬剤であり、例えば、治療対象のがん細胞内に進入してがん細胞の増殖を抑制する抗がん剤や、がん細胞内に進入してがん細胞の遺伝子の欠陥を修復する治療用の遺伝子等である。このような薬剤は、がん細胞の特定の受容体(レセプター)と特異的に結合するリガンドを備えている。 The operation of the drug introduction device 1 configured as described above will be described along with a treatment method for introducing a drug into cells using ultrasonic waves. The drug used in this treatment method is a drug injected into a blood vessel. For example, an anticancer drug that enters the cancer cell to be treated and suppresses the growth of the cancer cell, or a cancer cell. A therapeutic gene that enters and repairs a gene defect in a cancer cell. Such a drug comprises a ligand that specifically binds to a specific receptor (receptor) of a cancer cell.
　これにより、がん細胞に接触した薬剤はがん細胞と結合し、また、接触しなかった薬剤は血液の循環により再度治療領域4に戻ってくるため、がん細胞に結合する薬剤が次第に増加する。これにより、がん細胞が存在する領域に薬剤が集積される。しかし、薬剤は細胞内に進入しにくいため、超音波を照射してがん細胞内への薬剤の進入を促進することにより、がん細胞内に薬剤を導入する。そのため、がん細胞が存在する領域に薬剤が集積して薬剤濃度が設定濃度になった後に超音波を照射することで、所望の導入効率を確保できる。この場合、薬剤濃度が設定濃度になるまで、超音波の照射を待つことになる。また、薬剤の血中濃度が半減するまでの時間(半減期)が数時間から数十時間になるものがあるので、その間、治療を継続する場合は超音波の照射時間が長くなる。 As a result, drugs that have come into contact with cancer cells bind to cancer cells, and drugs that have not come into contact return to the treatment area 4 again by blood circulation, so the number of drugs that bind to cancer cells gradually increases. To do. Thereby, the drug is accumulated in a region where cancer cells are present. However, since it is difficult for the drug to enter the cell, the drug is introduced into the cancer cell by accelerating the entrance of the drug into the cancer cell by irradiating ultrasonic waves. Therefore, the desired introduction efficiency can be ensured by irradiating the ultrasonic wave after the drug is accumulated in the region where the cancer cells are present and the drug concentration reaches the set concentration. In this case, the irradiation of ultrasonic waves is waited until the drug concentration reaches the set concentration. In addition, since the time until the blood concentration of the drug is halved (half-life) is several hours to several tens of hours, if the treatment is continued during that time, the irradiation time of ultrasonic waves becomes longer.
　このような治療を行う際、まず、治療前に行われた検査に基づいて、治療領域4と治療に用いる薬剤が決定される。また、治療領域4と治療に用いる薬剤に基づいて超音波の照射条件が決定される。そして、治療領域4の体表面からの深さ範囲及び広がり範囲等の治療領域4の情報と、超音波の照射強度、照射の繰り返し周期、照射タイミング等の照射条件がコントロールパネル5を介してマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定される。治療領域4の情報と照射条件が設定された後、治療領域4が超音波の照射可能範囲に入る位置の外皮に超音波送信面を密着させて、ベルト19を被検体に巻き付けて薬剤導入装置1を被検体に装着する。なお、薬剤導入装置1の装着位置と治療領域4の情報は、例えば、治療前の検査で得られたX線CT装置等の他の医療機器の画像に基づいて求めることができる。 When performing such treatment, first, the treatment area 4 and the drug to be used for treatment are determined based on the examination performed before the treatment. Further, the irradiation condition of the ultrasonic wave is determined based on the treatment region 4 and the medicine used for the treatment. Information on the treatment region 4 such as the depth range and spread range from the body surface of the treatment region 4 and the irradiation conditions such as the irradiation intensity of the ultrasonic wave, the repetition period of irradiation, and the irradiation timing are displayed via the control panel 5. Input settings are made to the computer 7. After the treatment area 4 information and irradiation conditions are set, the ultrasonic transmission surface is brought into close contact with the outer skin at a position where the treatment area 4 falls within the ultrasonic irradiation possible range, and the belt 19 is wound around the subject to introduce the drug. Attach 1 to the subject. Note that the information on the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1 and the treatment region 4 can be obtained based on, for example, an image of another medical device such as an X-ray CT device obtained by an examination before treatment.
　つまり、画像上で治療領域4を特定して治療領域4が超音波の照射可能範囲内におさまる位置を薬剤導入装置1の装着位置とする。そして、装着位置における治療領域4の深さ範囲と広がり範囲を治療領域4の情報とする。 That is, the treatment region 4 is identified on the image, and the position where the treatment region 4 falls within the ultrasonic irradiation possible range is set as the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1. Then, the depth range and the spread range of the treatment region 4 at the mounting position are used as information on the treatment region 4.
　マイクロコンピュータ7は、入力された治療領域4の情報に基づいて、治療領域4内に焦点を合わせフォーカス処理の条件を決定する。そして、設定された照射開始時間になると、マイクロコンピュータ7は、フォーカス処理の条件と照射条件に基づいて生成した制御信号を超音波送信回路9に出力する。超音波送信回路9は、入力された制御信号に基づいて振動子部3に電圧を印加し、治療領域4内に焦点を合わせた収束ビーム17を、振動子部3から治療領域4に照射する。これにより、焦点付近の薬剤の振動などにより、治療領域4におけるがん細胞内への薬剤の進入が促進できる。そして、治療領域内4の他の位置に焦点を代えて超音波を照射することで、治療領域4全体のがん細胞への薬剤の導入を促進することができる。 The microcomputer 7 focuses on the treatment area 4 based on the input information about the treatment area 4 and determines the condition of the focus process. When the set irradiation start time is reached, the microcomputer 7 outputs a control signal generated based on the focus processing condition and the irradiation condition to the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9. The ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 applies a voltage to the transducer unit 3 based on the input control signal, and irradiates the treatment region 4 with the convergent beam 17 focused in the treatment region 4 . Thereby, the entry of the drug into the cancer cell in the treatment region 4 can be promoted by the vibration of the drug near the focal point. Then, the introduction of the drug into the cancer cells in the entire treatment region 4 can be promoted by irradiating the ultrasonic wave with changing the focus to other positions in the treatment region 4.
　これによれば、被検体に装着した薬剤導入装置1により超音波を照射して、薬剤を導入する治療を行うことができる。つまり、超音波診断装置から超音波を照射する装置を分離して被検体に装着したから、被検体は動くことができ、かつ、操作者は被検体に張り付いている必要がない。したがって、操作者や被検体の負担を軽減でき、薬剤導入に用いる装置の使い勝手を向上できる。 According to this, it is possible to perform a treatment for introducing a drug by irradiating an ultrasonic wave with the drug introducing device 1 attached to the subject. That is, since the apparatus for irradiating ultrasonic waves is separated from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and attached to the subject, the subject can move and the operator does not need to stick to the subject. Therefore, the burden on the operator and the subject can be reduced, and the usability of the apparatus used for introducing the drug can be improved.
　また、超音波を照射することで、細胞内への薬剤の導入を促進できるから、薬剤の投与量を抑えることができる。つまり、細胞内に導入しにくい薬剤を用いる場合は、投与量を多くして細胞内へ薬剤の導入を促進することがあり副作用が発生する確率が高くなることがある。この点、超音波を照射することで、細胞内への薬剤の導入を促進できるから、超音波を照射しない場合に比べて薬剤の投与量を少なくでき、副作用が発生する確率を低減できる。 Moreover, since the introduction of the drug into the cells can be promoted by irradiating with ultrasonic waves, the dose of the drug can be suppressed. That is, when a drug that is difficult to be introduced into cells is used, the dose may be increased to promote the introduction of the drug into the cells, which may increase the probability of side effects. In this respect, since the introduction of the drug into the cells can be promoted by irradiating the ultrasonic wave, the dose of the drug can be reduced as compared with the case where the ultrasonic wave is not irradiated, and the probability of occurrence of a side effect can be reduced.
　なお、超音波を照射すると、細胞内に薬剤が導入されて治療領域4における薬剤濃度は低下するが、半減期が長い薬剤を用いた場合は、薬剤が体内を循環しているから治療領域4に薬剤が再度集積する。この集積周期を予め実験等で求めておき、求めた周期を照射の繰り返し周期として設定することで、治療領域4に薬剤が集積する度に超音波を照射でき、治療を自動継続できる。 In addition, when the ultrasonic wave is irradiated, the drug is introduced into the cell and the drug concentration in the treatment area 4 decreases.However, when a drug with a long half-life is used, the drug circulates in the body, so the treatment area 4 The drug accumulates again. By preliminarily obtaining this accumulation period through experiments or the like and setting the obtained period as the repetition period of irradiation, it is possible to irradiate ultrasonic waves each time the medicine is accumulated in the treatment region 4 and to automatically continue the treatment.
　また、超音波の照射タイミングは、例えば、治療領域4における薬剤濃度が設定濃度になる時間を照射開始時間に設定し、治療領域4における薬剤濃度が設定濃度に達しない程度に体内の薬剤濃度が低下する時間を照射停止時間に設定できる。 In addition, for example, the irradiation timing of the ultrasonic wave is set such that the time when the drug concentration in the treatment region 4 becomes the set concentration is set as the irradiation start time, and the drug concentration in the body does not reach the set concentration. The time to decrease can be set as the irradiation stop time.
　また、振動子部3を形成する振動子の数や配列は、治療領域4の大きさによって適宜選択することができる。例えば、治療領域4が狭い場合は、複数の振動子を1次元に配列して形成した振動子部3、又は、単一の振動子で形成した振動子部3を用いることができる。 Further, the number and arrangement of transducers forming the transducer unit 3 can be appropriately selected depending on the size of the treatment region 4. For example, when the treatment region 4 is narrow, the transducer unit 3 formed by arranging a plurality of transducers in a one-dimensional manner or the transducer unit 3 formed by a single transducer can be used.
　また、振動子は、圧電素子(PZT)、又は容量性振動要素(cMUTセル)等、適宜選択できる。特に、cMUTセルは、半導体基板上にリソグラフィ技術を用いて作成されるから、cMUTセルを用いることで振動子部3を小型化できる。さらに、cMUTセルは、半導体基板を用いて作成されるから、PZTのように鉛成分を含有しないため、万一cMUTセルが破壊されても生体への毒性影響が少ない。 Further, the vibrator can be appropriately selected from a piezoelectric element (PZT) or a capacitive vibration element (cMUT cell). In particular, since the cMUT cell is formed on a semiconductor substrate using a lithography technique, the vibrator unit 3 can be reduced in size by using the cMUT cell. Furthermore, since the cMUT cell is produced using a semiconductor substrate, it does not contain a lead component unlike PZT, and therefore, even if the cMUT cell is destroyed, there is little toxic effect on the living body.
　また、コントロールパネル5は、例えば、キーボードやタッチパネルなど周知の入力装置を用いることができる。 The control panel 5 can be a known input device such as a keyboard or a touch panel.
　また、薬剤導入装置1の電源はバッテリ11などの2次電池に限定されず、1次電池を用いることができる。また、バッテリ11と充電器を有線で接続して、バッテリ11を充電可能に形成できる。 Further, the power source of the drug introduction device 1 is not limited to a secondary battery such as the battery 11, and a primary battery can be used. In addition, the battery 11 and the charger can be connected by a wire so that the battery 11 can be charged.
　また、照射条件に基づいて、治療領域4に照射する超音波の送波波形、送信デューティを調整するよう構成することができる。 Also, it can be configured to adjust the transmission waveform and transmission duty of the ultrasonic wave irradiated to the treatment region 4 based on the irradiation conditions.
　また、薬剤導入装置1の治療対象はがん細胞に限定されず、他の疾患等を治療対象とすることができる。 Further, the treatment target of the drug introduction device 1 is not limited to cancer cells, and other diseases can be treated.
　また、実施形態1は、薬剤導入装置1を被検体の外皮に装着したが、治療領域4に対応する位置の被検体の体内に埋め込むことができる。この場合、無線通信可能な通信装置を薬剤導入装置1に設け、外部に設けた薬剤導入制御装置で、治療領域4や超音波の照射条件をマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定することが好ましい。 In the first embodiment, the drug introduction device 1 is mounted on the outer skin of the subject, but can be implanted in the body of the subject at a position corresponding to the treatment region 4. In this case, it is preferable that a communication device capable of wireless communication is provided in the drug introduction device 1, and the treatment region 4 and the irradiation condition of the ultrasonic wave are input and set in the microcomputer 7 with the drug introduction control device provided outside.
　また、実施形態1の薬剤導入装置1は、設定位置に設定強度の超音波を照射するだけであるから、超音波診断装置に比べて小型化でき、被検体に容易に装着することができる。 Further, since the drug introduction device 1 of the first embodiment only irradiates the set position with ultrasonic waves having a set intensity, it can be reduced in size as compared with the ultrasonic diagnostic device and can be easily attached to the subject.
　また、薬剤導入装置1を被検体の体表面に装着する固定具はベルトに限定されず、テープなどを用いることができる。 Also, the fixture for mounting the drug introduction device 1 on the body surface of the subject is not limited to a belt, and a tape or the like can be used.
　(実施形態2)
　図4を用いて、実施形態2の薬剤導入装置1を説明する。実施形態2が実施形態1と相違する点は、超音波を送受信可能な振動子によって振動子部3を形成し、振動子部3で受信した超音波の反射エコー信号を受信する超音波受信回路21を設け、超音波受信回路21で受信した反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成し、生成した超音波画像に基づいて治療領域4を設定し、照射位置を決定するようにしている点である。その他の構成は、実施形態1と同じであるから、同一の符号を付して説明を省略する。 (Embodiment 2)
With reference to FIG. 4, the drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 2 will be described. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that an ultrasonic wave receiving circuit that forms a vibrator unit 3 with a vibrator capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves and receives a reflected echo signal of the ultrasonic wave received by the vibrator unit 3 21 is provided, an ultrasonic image is generated based on the reflected echo signal received by the ultrasonic receiving circuit 21, the treatment region 4 is set based on the generated ultrasonic image, and the irradiation position is determined. It is. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
　超音波受信回路21は、反射エコー信号を取り込んで増幅などの受信処理を行うようになっている。超音波受信回路21で受信処理された反射エコー信号は、マイクロコンピュータ7に入力され、マイクロコンピュータ7は、入力された反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成するようになっている。また、マイクロコンピュータ7には、治療領域4の基準超音波画像が格納され、生成された超音波画像と比較して、現在の治療領域4の位置を特定するようになっている。 The ultrasonic receiving circuit 21 receives a reflected echo signal and performs reception processing such as amplification. The reflected echo signal received and processed by the ultrasonic receiving circuit 21 is input to the microcomputer 7, and the microcomputer 7 generates an ultrasonic image based on the input reflected echo signal. The microcomputer 7 stores a reference ultrasonic image of the treatment area 4 and identifies the current position of the treatment area 4 as compared with the generated ultrasonic image.
　これによれば、マイクロコンピュータ7において、治療領域4の基準超音波画像と、生成した超音波画像を比較して、現在の治療領域4の位置を求め、その位置を超音波の照射位置として超音波の照射を制御することができる。例えば、呼吸等の体動により治療領域4が動く場合は、治療領域4を追跡して超音波の照射位置を変える必要がある。この点、実施形態2によれば、現在の治療領域4の位置を求め、求めた位置に超音波を照射できるから、治療領域4に超音波を確実に照射できる。なお、治療領域4の追跡は、循環器領域にて壁運動解析に用いている手法等、周知の手法を用いることができる。 According to this, the microcomputer 7 compares the reference ultrasonic image of the treatment area 4 with the generated ultrasonic image to obtain the current position of the treatment area 4, and uses that position as the ultrasonic irradiation position. Sound wave irradiation can be controlled. For example, when the treatment area 4 moves due to body movement such as respiration, it is necessary to track the treatment area 4 and change the irradiation position of the ultrasonic waves. In this regard, according to the second embodiment, since the current position of the treatment region 4 is obtained and the ultrasonic wave can be irradiated to the obtained position, the treatment region 4 can be reliably irradiated with the ultrasonic wave. The treatment region 4 can be tracked using a known method such as a method used for wall motion analysis in the circulatory region.
　なお、薬剤導入装置1に通信装置を設け、生成した超音波画像を外部の表示装置に送信して表示させるように構成できる。これによれば、薬剤導入装置1を被検体に装着する際、被検体の体内の超音波画像を見ながら薬剤導入装置1の位置を調整できるから、治療領域4に対応する位置に確実に装着できる。さらに、操作者は、超音波画像上の治療領域4を囲んで治療領域4をマイクロコンピュータ7に設定できるから、治療領域4の座標情報等を入力する場合に比べて使い勝手を向上できる。 Note that a communication device may be provided in the medicine introduction device 1 so that the generated ultrasonic image is transmitted to an external display device for display. According to this, when the drug introduction device 1 is attached to the subject, the position of the drug introduction device 1 can be adjusted while looking at the ultrasonic image in the body of the subject, so it is surely attached to the position corresponding to the treatment region 4 it can. Furthermore, since the operator can surround the treatment area 4 on the ultrasonic image and set the treatment area 4 in the microcomputer 7, the usability can be improved as compared with the case where the coordinate information of the treatment area 4 is input.
　(実施形態3)
　図5を用いて、実施形態3の薬剤導入装置1を説明する。実施形態3が実施形態2と相違する点は、マイクロコンピュータ7で超音波画像を生成せず、反射エコー信号を、通信装置23を介して外部に設けた薬剤導入制御装置25に無線で送信し、薬剤導入制御装置25で超音波画像を生成している点である。そして、生成された超音波画像を通信装置を介してマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定し超音波の照射位置を決定している点である。
　その他の構成は実施形態2と同一であるから、同一の符号を付して説明を省略する。 (Embodiment 3)
The drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The difference between the third embodiment and the second embodiment is that the microcomputer 7 does not generate an ultrasonic image and transmits the reflected echo signal wirelessly to the medicine introduction control device 25 provided outside via the communication device 23. In other words, the medicine introduction control device 25 generates an ultrasonic image. Then, the generated ultrasonic image is input and set to the microcomputer 7 via the communication device, and the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave is determined.
Since other configurations are the same as those of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
　これによれば、マイクロコンピュータ7から超音波画像の生成機能を省略できるから、実施形態2に比べて薬剤導入装置1を小型化できる。特に、薬剤導入装置1を体内に埋め込む場合は装置の小型化が要望されるから、超音波画像を外部の装置で生成することが好ましい。 According to this, since the ultrasonic image generation function can be omitted from the microcomputer 7, the drug introduction device 1 can be downsized as compared with the second embodiment. In particular, when the drug introduction device 1 is implanted in the body, it is preferable to reduce the size of the device. Therefore, it is preferable to generate an ultrasonic image using an external device.
　なお、生成した超音波画像を薬剤導入制御装置25に表示し、超音波画像上の治療領域4を操作者に特定させ、特定された治療領域4の座標情報のみを通信装置23を介してマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定して照射範囲を設定できる。これによれば、治療領域4の基準超音波画像をマイクロコンピュータ7に格納する必要がないから、薬剤導入装置1を一層小型化できる。 The generated ultrasonic image is displayed on the medicine introduction control device 25, the operator specifies the treatment region 4 on the ultrasonic image, and only the coordinate information of the specified treatment region 4 is micro-transmitted via the communication device 23. The irradiation range can be set by inputting settings to the computer 7. According to this, since it is not necessary to store the reference ultrasonic image of the treatment region 4 in the microcomputer 7, the drug introduction device 1 can be further downsized.
　また、薬剤導入制御装置25に超音波画像の表示装置を設け、薬剤導入装置1を移動させながら超音波を送受信させ、その超音波画像を表示装置に表示するように構成することができる。これによれば、薬剤導入装置1の現在位置における超音波画像を見ながら薬剤導入装置1の装着位置を決定し、装着位置における超音波画像から治療領域4の広がり範囲と深さ範囲等の治療領域4の情報を求めて超音波の照射位置を設定することができる。 Also, an ultrasonic image display device can be provided in the medicine introduction control device 25, and ultrasonic waves can be transmitted and received while the medicine introduction device 1 is moved, and the ultrasonic image can be displayed on the display device. According to this, the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1 is determined while observing the ultrasonic image at the current position of the drug introduction device 1, and the treatment such as the expansion range and depth range of the treatment region 4 from the ultrasonic image at the mounting position is determined. The information on the area 4 can be obtained and the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave can be set.
　これによれば、薬剤導入装置1の装着位置における実際の超音波画像をみながら照射位置を設定できるから、治療領域4に確実に超音波を照射することができる。 According to this, since the irradiation position can be set while viewing the actual ultrasonic image at the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1, it is possible to reliably irradiate the treatment region 4 with ultrasonic waves.
　(実施形態4)
　図6を用いて、実施形態4の薬剤導入装置1を説明する。実施形態4が実施形態1と相違する点は、治療領域4の近傍の血液中の薬剤濃度を検出する濃度センサ27を設けて、濃度センサ27の検出値に応じて超音波の照射を制御する点である。その他の構成は、実施形態1と同一であるから、同一の符号を付して説明を省略する。 (Embodiment 4)
The drug introduction device 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The difference between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment is that a concentration sensor 27 that detects a drug concentration in the blood in the vicinity of the treatment region 4 is provided, and ultrasonic irradiation is controlled according to the detection value of the concentration sensor 27. Is a point. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
　濃度センサ27には、針31が設けられ、設定された周期で針31を介して血管内の血液を採取するようになっている。濃度センサ27は、採取した血液中の薬剤濃度を検出し、マイクロコンピュータ7に入力するようになっている。マイクロコンピュータ7は、入力された薬剤濃度が設定濃度範囲内か否かを判定し、濃度センサ27で検出した濃度が設定濃度範囲内の場合は、超音波の照射を開始する。一方、濃度センサ27で検出した濃度が設定濃度範囲外の場合は、超音波を照射しない又は超音波の照射を停止する制御を行う。 The concentration sensor 27 is provided with a needle 31, and blood in the blood vessel is collected through the needle 31 at a set cycle. The concentration sensor 27 detects the concentration of the drug in the collected blood and inputs it to the microcomputer 7. The microcomputer 7 determines whether or not the input drug concentration is within the set concentration range, and when the concentration detected by the concentration sensor 27 is within the set concentration range, the irradiation of ultrasonic waves is started. On the other hand, when the concentration detected by the concentration sensor 27 is outside the set concentration range, control is performed so as not to irradiate the ultrasonic wave or to stop the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave.
　これによれば、治療領域4の実際の薬剤濃度に基づいて超音波の照射タイミングを決定するから、超音波の照射タイミングを予め設定する場合に比べて、照射タイミングの正確性を向上させることができる。 According to this, since the irradiation timing of the ultrasonic wave is determined based on the actual drug concentration in the treatment region 4, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the irradiation timing as compared with the case where the ultrasonic wave irradiation timing is set in advance. it can.
　なお、濃度センサ27は、例えば、薬剤の蛍光標識等の標識を検出して濃度を検出するセンサ等の周知のセンサを用いることができる。 As the concentration sensor 27, for example, a known sensor such as a sensor that detects a concentration by detecting a label such as a fluorescent label of a drug can be used.
　また、血液中の薬剤濃度に代えて、治療領域4における予め設定した血液中の指標成分の濃度を検出し、検出濃度が設定濃度になったら超音波を照射するように構成できる。この場合、赤血球、白血球等、薬剤によって濃度が変化する成分を指標成分として用いることができる。 Further, instead of the drug concentration in the blood, it is possible to detect the preset concentration of the indicator component in the blood in the treatment region 4 and irradiate the ultrasonic wave when the detected concentration reaches the set concentration. In this case, a component whose concentration varies depending on the drug, such as red blood cells and white blood cells, can be used as an indicator component.
　また、図7に示すように、針31に代えて薬剤光学センサ33を濃度センサ27に接続し、薬剤光学センサ33から血管に向けて光を照射し、その反射光に基づいて、血液中の薬剤濃度、又は、予め設定した血液中の指標成分の濃度を検出できる。これによれば、血液を採取することによる感染症のリスクを低減することができる。 Further, as shown in FIG. 7, instead of the needle 31, the drug optical sensor 33 is connected to the concentration sensor 27, light is irradiated from the drug optical sensor 33 toward the blood vessel, and based on the reflected light, It is possible to detect a drug concentration or a preset concentration of an indicator component in blood. According to this, the risk of infectious disease by collecting blood can be reduced.
　なお、超音波の照射を制御する血液中の薬剤濃度の範囲は、治療対象の細胞、治療に用いる薬剤の種類等によって適宜選択できる。また、血液中の薬剤濃度が低下するにしたがい、超音波の照射回数を増やす等の制御を行うことができる。 In addition, the range of the drug concentration in the blood for controlling the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave can be appropriately selected depending on the cell to be treated, the type of drug used for the treatment, and the like. Further, as the drug concentration in the blood decreases, control such as increasing the number of times of ultrasonic irradiation can be performed.
　(実施形態5)
　図8、9を用いて、実施形態5の薬剤導入装置1を説明する。実施形態5が実施形態4と相違する点は、薬剤導入装置1を被検体の体内に埋め込んで装着している点である。さらに、コントロールパネル5を体外に設置し、コントロールパネル5とマイクロコンピュータ7とを相互に無線通信可能に形成した点である。また、薬剤が収容されるタンク45と、タンク45内の薬剤を被検体の血管内に投与する投与装置43を設けた点である。また、バッテリ装置15に無線充電可能な充電用コイル53を設けた点である。その他の構成は実施形態4と同一であるから、同一の符号を付して説明を省略する。 (Embodiment 5)
The drug introduction device 1 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The difference between the fifth embodiment and the fourth embodiment is that the drug introduction device 1 is embedded in the body of the subject. Furthermore, the control panel 5 is installed outside the body, and the control panel 5 and the microcomputer 7 are formed so as to be capable of wireless communication with each other. In addition, a tank 45 in which a medicine is stored, and an administration device 43 that administers the medicine in the tank 45 into the blood vessel of the subject are provided. In addition, the battery device 15 is provided with a charging coil 53 capable of wireless charging. Since other configurations are the same as those of the fourth embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.
　コントロールパネル5に入力された治療領域4の情報と照射条件の情報は、通信装置41を介して無線でマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定される。また、投与装置43には、タンク45内の薬剤を吸い出すポンプ47が設けられている。ポンプ47には、針49が接続され、針49から血管内に薬剤を投与できるようになっている。バッテリ装置15の充電用コイル53で発生した電力をバッテリ11に充電することができるようになっている。 The information on the treatment area 4 and the irradiation condition information input to the control panel 5 are input and set to the microcomputer 7 wirelessly via the communication device 41. Further, the administration device 43 is provided with a pump 47 for sucking out the medicine in the tank 45. A needle 49 is connected to the pump 47 so that a drug can be administered from the needle 49 into the blood vessel. The battery 11 can be charged with the electric power generated by the charging coil 53 of the battery device 15.
　ここで、実施形態5の特徴作用を説明する。濃度センサ27で検出した血液中の薬剤濃度が設定濃度よりも低下すると、マイクロコンピュータ7は、投与装置43を駆動させ、薬剤を血管内に投与する制御を行う。その後、血液中の薬剤濃度が設定濃度を超えると、薬剤投与を停止する制御を行う。なお、薬剤の投与条件、例えば、投与スピード等を、コントロールパネル5からマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定することで、マイクロコンピュータ7によって設定された投与条件で薬剤を投与することができる。 Here, the characteristic operation of the fifth embodiment will be described. When the drug concentration in the blood detected by the concentration sensor 27 falls below the set concentration, the microcomputer 7 controls the administration of the drug into the blood vessel by driving the administration device 43. Thereafter, when the drug concentration in the blood exceeds the set concentration, control for stopping the drug administration is performed. Note that the drug can be administered under the administration conditions set by the microcomputer 7 by inputting and setting the administration conditions of the drug, for example, the administration speed and the like from the control panel 5 to the microcomputer 7.
　これによれば、被検体に装着した薬剤導入装置1で薬剤を投与でき、病院等に行くことなく薬剤を投与できるから、例えば、在宅治療を行う場合の被検体の負担を一層軽減できる。 According to this, since the drug can be administered by the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject and the drug can be administered without going to a hospital or the like, for example, the burden on the subject when performing home treatment can be further reduced.
　なお、薬剤の投与を血液中の薬剤濃度に基づいて制御しているが、これに代えて、予め設定した時間又は周期に基づいて薬剤投与することができる。この場合、コントロールパネル5からマイクロコンピュータ7に投与時間又は投与周期を入力設定する。 The administration of the drug is controlled based on the drug concentration in the blood, but instead, the drug can be administered based on a preset time or cycle. In this case, the administration time or administration cycle is input and set from the control panel 5 to the microcomputer 7.
　また、実施形態5の薬剤導入装置1を、体内に代えて、体外に装着することができる。 Also, the drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 5 can be attached outside the body instead of inside the body.
　また、図10に示すように、タンク45と投与装置43を設けない薬剤導入装置1を被検体の体内に設けることができる。この場合、薬剤の投与は医師等によって定期的に行うことができる。 Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the drug introduction device 1 without the tank 45 and the administration device 43 can be provided in the body of the subject. In this case, the medicine can be regularly administered by a doctor or the like.
　また、後述するように、気泡の超音波造影剤を用いる場合は、気泡の超音波造影剤が混合された薬剤をタンク45に収容して被検体に投与することができる。 As will be described later, when a bubble ultrasound contrast agent is used, a medicine mixed with the bubble ultrasound contrast agent can be stored in the tank 45 and administered to the subject.
　(実施形態6)
　実施形態6として、超音波照射の照射制御の一例を説明する。図11の超音波照射のシーケンスは、実施形態5の薬剤導入装置1を用い、気泡の超音波造影剤が混合された薬剤を被検体に投与する場合の例である。なお、実施形態6で用いる気泡の超音波造影剤は、例えば、薬剤を修飾可能な造影剤、薬剤を内部に封入可能な造影剤など、薬剤とともに移動して、血管の管壁を通過可能な造影剤を用いることができる。 (Embodiment 6)
As Embodiment 6, an example of irradiation control of ultrasonic irradiation will be described. The sequence of ultrasonic irradiation in FIG. 11 is an example in the case of using the drug introduction device 1 of Embodiment 5 and administering a drug mixed with a bubble ultrasonic contrast agent to a subject. The ultrasonic contrast agent for bubbles used in Embodiment 6 can move with the agent and pass through the vessel wall of the blood vessel, for example, a contrast agent that can modify the agent or a contrast agent that can enclose the agent inside. A contrast agent can be used.
　マイクロコンピュータ7によって、投与装置43から血管内に超音波造影剤が混合された薬剤の投与が開始されると(T0-0)、血液中の薬剤濃度が増加する。血中薬剤濃度は、濃度センサ27からマイクロコンピュータ7に入力される。マイクロコンピュータ7は、薬剤の投与量が設定量になると、投与装置43を停止させて薬剤の投与を停止する。 When the administration of the medicine in which the ultrasound contrast agent is mixed into the blood vessel is started from the administration device 43 by the microcomputer 7 (T0-0), the concentration of the medicine in the blood increases. The blood drug concentration is input from the concentration sensor 27 to the microcomputer 7. When the dose of the medicine reaches the set amount, the microcomputer 7 stops the administration device 43 and stops the administration of the medicine.
　その後、マイクロコンピュータ7に入力される血液中の薬剤濃度が上限閾値を超えると、マイクロコンピュータ7は、第1の照射強度に設定した超音波(中音圧超音波)を照射する制御を行う(T1-0)。中音圧超音波は、超音波造影剤の気泡が圧縮と膨張を繰り返す照射強度に設定されているから、気泡の伸縮により超音波造影剤が混合された薬剤が血管内を移動する。これにより、超音波造影剤とともに薬剤を血管の管壁に向かって拡散でき、薬剤と治療対象の細胞(標的細胞)が接触する確率を高めることができるから、標的細胞に薬剤を結合させることができる。中音圧超音波を設定時間照射して、治療領域4の薬剤濃度が高められると、マイクロコンピュータ7、第1の照射強度よりも強い第2の照射強度に設定した超音波(大音圧超音波)を照射する制御を行う(T2-0)。これにより、標的細胞に結合した薬剤の気泡の超音波造影剤を破裂させる。この破裂の衝撃により、標的細胞内への薬剤の進入が促進され、標的細胞内へ薬剤を導入できる。大音圧超音波を設定時間照射した後、血液中の薬剤濃度が下限閾値より低下すると、マイクロコンピュータ7は、投与装置43を制御して薬剤の投与を再開し(T0-1)、上述した超音波の照射制御を繰り返す。 Thereafter, when the drug concentration in the blood input to the microcomputer 7 exceeds the upper threshold, the microcomputer 7 performs control to irradiate the ultrasonic wave (medium sound pressure ultrasonic wave) set to the first irradiation intensity ( T1-0). The medium sound pressure ultrasonic wave is set to an irradiation intensity at which bubbles of the ultrasonic contrast agent are repeatedly compressed and expanded, so that the drug mixed with the ultrasonic contrast agent moves in the blood vessel due to expansion and contraction of the bubbles. As a result, the drug can be diffused toward the vessel wall of the blood vessel together with the ultrasound contrast agent, and the probability that the drug and the cell to be treated (target cell) come into contact with each other can be increased. it can. When the drug concentration in the treatment area 4 is increased by irradiating the medium sound pressure ultrasonic wave for the set time, the microcomputer 7 sets the ultrasonic wave set to the second irradiation intensity higher than the first irradiation intensity (high sound pressure super (Sound wave) is controlled (T2-0). Thereby, the ultrasonic contrast agent of the bubble of the medicine couple | bonded with the target cell is ruptured. Due to the impact of the rupture, the entry of the drug into the target cell is promoted, and the drug can be introduced into the target cell. After irradiating a high sound pressure ultrasonic wave for a set time, when the drug concentration in the blood falls below the lower threshold, the microcomputer 7 controls the administration device 43 to resume the administration of the drug (T0-1), as described above. Repeat the ultrasonic irradiation control.
　これによれば、血管に沿って流れている薬剤を拡散させて、治療対象の細胞と薬剤が接触する確率を高めることができるため、治療領域4における薬剤濃度を高めることができる。そして、この状態で超音波造影剤の気泡を破裂させると、その衝撃により細胞内へ薬剤が進入するため、細胞内への薬剤導入を一層促進することができる。 According to this, since the drug flowing along the blood vessel can be diffused to increase the probability that the cell to be treated is in contact with the drug, the drug concentration in the treatment region 4 can be increased. When the bubbles of the ultrasonic contrast agent are ruptured in this state, the drug enters the cell due to the impact, so that the introduction of the drug into the cell can be further promoted.
　なお、図12に示すように、投与する薬剤によっては、薬剤投与によって被検体の血液中の発熱性物質濃度が増加することがある。この場合、血液中の薬剤濃度に代えて、血液中の発熱性物質濃度を濃度センサ27で検出し、その検出値をマイクロコンピュータ7に入力して超音波の照射を制御することができる。 Note that, as shown in FIG. 12, depending on the drug to be administered, the pyrogen concentration in the blood of the subject may increase due to the drug administration. In this case, instead of the drug concentration in the blood, the concentration of the pyrogen in the blood can be detected by the concentration sensor 27, and the detected value can be input to the microcomputer 7 to control the irradiation of ultrasonic waves.
　(実施形態7)
　図13を用いて、被検体に装着される薬剤導入装置1と、外部に設けた薬剤導入制御装置61を無線通信可能に構成した薬剤導入システムを実施形態7として説明する。なお、上述の実施形態と同一のものは、同一の符号を付して説明を省略する。 (Embodiment 7)
A drug introduction system in which the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject and the drug introduction control device 61 provided outside are configured to be capable of wireless communication will be described as Embodiment 7 with reference to FIG. In addition, the same thing as the above-mentioned embodiment attaches | subjects the same code | symbol, and abbreviate | omits description.
　薬剤導入システムは、被検体に装着される薬剤導入装置1と、操作者によって操作される薬剤導入制御装置61を相互に無線通信可能に構成している。薬剤導入装置1は、被検体との間で超音波を送受信する振動子部3と、薬剤導入制御装置61の通信装置63から送信され被検体の治療領域4の情報と超音波の照射条件に基づいて超音波の照射を制御するマイクロコンピュータ7と、振動子部3とマイクロコンピュータ7に電力を供給する電池とを備えている。振動子部3は、超音波送信回路9と超音波受信回路21に接続され、マイクロコンピュータ7の制御信号に基づいて超音波を照射するとともに、反射エコー信号をマイクロコンピュータ7に出力するようになっている。マイクロコンピュータ7には、通信装置55が接続され、薬剤導入制御装置61と無線通信可能に形成されている。このように構成される薬剤導入装置1は、振動子部3の超音波送受信面を被検体の治療領域4に対応させて体表面に密着させて又は体内に埋め込んで装着される。 The drug introduction system is configured such that the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject and the drug introduction control device 61 operated by the operator can communicate with each other wirelessly. The drug introduction device 1 is transmitted from the vibrator unit 3 that transmits / receives ultrasonic waves to / from the subject and the communication device 63 of the drug introduction control device 61 to the information on the treatment area 4 of the subject and the irradiation conditions of the ultrasonic waves. A microcomputer 7 that controls the irradiation of ultrasonic waves based on the above, and a battery that supplies power to the vibrator unit 3 and the microcomputer 7 are provided. The transducer unit 3 is connected to the ultrasonic transmission circuit 9 and the ultrasonic reception circuit 21, and emits ultrasonic waves based on the control signal of the microcomputer 7 and outputs a reflected echo signal to the microcomputer 7. ing. A communication device 55 is connected to the microcomputer 7 so that it can communicate with the medicine introduction control device 61 wirelessly. The drug introduction device 1 configured as described above is mounted with the ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving surface of the transducer unit 3 in close contact with the body surface corresponding to the treatment region 4 of the subject or embedded in the body.
　薬剤導入制御装置61は、薬剤導入装置1の通信装置55から送信された超音波の反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成する生成装置65と、超音波像上に治療領域4を設定するとともに、治療領域4に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する照射条件を入力するコントロールパネル5とを備えている。生成装置65には、通信装置63で受信した反射エコー信号が入力され、入力された反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成するようになっている。コントロールパネル5は、例えば、タッチパネルであり、生成装置65で生成された超音波画像を表示して、超音波画像上の治療領域4の情報を医師等が指定できるようになっている。そして、指定された治療領域4の情報に基づいて、超音波の照射範囲を決定するようになっている。さらに、コントロールパネル5は、照射条件を入力可能になっている。そして、コントロールパネル5は、照射範囲と照射条件を通信装置55、63を介してマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定するようになっている。 The drug introduction control device 61 sets the treatment region 4 on the ultrasonic image, and the generation device 65 that generates an ultrasonic image based on the reflected echo signal of the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the communication device 55 of the drug introduction device 1. A control panel 5 is also provided for inputting irradiation conditions for irradiating the treatment region 4 with ultrasonic waves and introducing a drug administered into the blood vessel into the cells. The generation device 65 receives the reflected echo signal received by the communication device 63, and generates an ultrasonic image based on the input reflected echo signal. The control panel 5 is, for example, a touch panel, and displays an ultrasonic image generated by the generation device 65 so that a doctor or the like can specify information on the treatment region 4 on the ultrasonic image. Then, based on the information on the designated treatment region 4, the ultrasonic irradiation range is determined. Furthermore, the control panel 5 can input irradiation conditions. The control panel 5 is configured to input and set the irradiation range and irradiation conditions to the microcomputer 7 via the communication devices 55 and 63.
　次に、実施形態7の薬剤導入システムの動作を説明する。医師等の操作者によって、薬剤導入装置1は、被検体の体外又は体内に装着される。この際、操作者は、コントロールパネル5に超音波画像の生成指令を入力し、被検体の超音波画像を見ながら薬剤導入装置1を装着位置を調整することができる。薬剤導入装置1を装着した後、コントロールパネル5に入力された超音波画像の生成指令に基づき、被検体に対して設定条件の超音波を照射し、その反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成する。生成した超音波画像をコントロールパネル5に表示し、表示した超音波画像上に指定された治療領域4の情報に基づいて、コントロールパネル5は、超音波の照射範囲を決定する。コントロールパネル5は、照射範囲の情報とともに、操作者によって入力された照射条件の情報を、通信装置55、63を介してマイクロコンピュータ7に入力設定する。薬剤導入制御装置61からの設定が終了した後、薬剤導入装置1は、設定された照射範囲と照射条件に基づいて、被検体に超音波を照射する。 Next, the operation of the drug introduction system of Embodiment 7 will be described. The drug introduction device 1 is mounted outside or inside the subject by an operator such as a doctor. At this time, the operator can input an ultrasonic image generation command to the control panel 5 and adjust the mounting position of the drug introduction device 1 while viewing the ultrasonic image of the subject. After mounting the drug introduction device 1, based on the ultrasound image generation command input to the control panel 5, the subject is irradiated with ultrasound of the set conditions, and the ultrasound image is based on the reflected echo signal. Generate. The generated ultrasonic image is displayed on the control panel 5, and the control panel 5 determines the irradiation range of the ultrasonic wave based on the information on the treatment area 4 designated on the displayed ultrasonic image. The control panel 5 inputs and sets the irradiation condition information input by the operator to the microcomputer 7 via the communication devices 55 and 63 together with the irradiation range information. After the setting from the drug introduction control device 61 is completed, the drug introduction device 1 irradiates the subject with ultrasonic waves based on the set irradiation range and irradiation conditions.
　これによれば、被検体に装着した薬剤導入装置1によって、細胞内への薬剤導入に必要な超音波照射が自動で行われるから、操作者と被検体の負担を軽減することができる。さらにコントロールパネル5や生成装置65を、外部に設けた薬剤導入制御装置61に設けたので、被検体に装着する薬剤導入装置1を小型化することができる。特に、薬剤導入装置1を被検体の体内に埋め込む場合は小型化が要望されるから、コントロールパネル5や生成装置65等を外部に設けることが好ましい。 According to this, since the ultrasonic wave irradiation necessary for the drug introduction into the cell is automatically performed by the drug introduction device 1 attached to the subject, the burden on the operator and the subject can be reduced. Furthermore, since the control panel 5 and the generation device 65 are provided in the medicine introduction control device 61 provided outside, the medicine introduction device 1 attached to the subject can be reduced in size. In particular, when the drug introduction device 1 is embedded in the body of a subject, it is desired to reduce the size, and therefore it is preferable to provide the control panel 5, the generation device 65, and the like outside.
　なお、本薬剤導入システムに用いる薬剤導入装置は、上述した実施形態1～6の薬剤導入装置を適宜選択して適用することができる。 It should be noted that the drug introduction device used in the drug introduction system can be applied by appropriately selecting the drug introduction device of the above-described first to sixth embodiments.
　1　薬剤導入装置、3　振動子部、4　治療領域、5　コントロールパネル、7　マイクロコンピュータ、11　バッテリ、23　通信装置、25　薬剤導入制御装置、27　濃度センサ、41　通信装置、43　投与装置、55　通信装置、61　薬剤導入制御装置、63　通信装置、65　生成装置 1 Drug introduction device, 3 vibrator unit, 4 treatment area, 5 control panel, 7 microcomputer, 11 battery, 23 communication device, 25 drug introduction control device, 27 concentration sensor, 41 communication device, 43 administration device, 55 communication device , 61 Drug introduction control device, 63 communication device, 65 generation device

Claims (7)

  1. 　被検体に超音波を照射する振動子と、前記被検体の治療領域に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する照射条件を入力するコントロールパネルと、前記治療領域に超音波の照射位置を制御するとともに、前記照射条件に基づいて前記超音波の照射を制御する制御装置と、前記振動子と前記制御装置に電力を供給する電池とを備え、
    　前記振動子の超音波送信面を前記被検体の前記治療領域に対応させて体表面に密着させて又は体内に埋め込んで装着される薬剤導入装置。     A vibrator for irradiating a subject with ultrasonic waves, a control panel for inputting irradiation conditions for irradiating ultrasonic waves to the treatment region of the subject and introducing a drug administered into a blood vessel into the cells, and the treatment region And a control device for controlling the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave based on the irradiation condition, a battery for supplying power to the vibrator and the control device,
    A drug introduction device that is mounted with an ultrasonic wave transmission surface of the vibrator in close contact with a body surface corresponding to the treatment region of the subject or embedded in the body.
  2. 　被検体との間で超音波を送受信する振動子と、前記被検体の治療領域に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する照射条件を入力するコントロールパネルと、前記治療領域に超音波の照射位置を制御するとともに、前記照射条件に基づいて前記超音波の照射を制御する制御装置と、外部に設けられる薬剤導入制御装置と無線通信可能な通信装置と、前記振動子と前記制御装置と前記通信装置に電力を供給する電池とを備え、　前記制御装置は、前記振動子で受信された反射エコー信号を前記通信装置を介して前記薬剤導入制御装置に送信し、前記薬剤導入制御装置で生成された超音波画像に基づいて定められた前記治療領域に前記照射位置を制御するよう形成されてなり、
    　前記振動子の超音波送受信面を前記被検体の前記治療領域に対応させて体表面に密着させて又は体内に埋め込んで装着される薬剤導入装置。     A transducer for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, a control panel for inputting irradiation conditions for introducing a drug administered into a blood vessel by irradiating ultrasonic waves to a treatment region of the subject, A control device that controls the irradiation position of the ultrasonic wave to the treatment area, controls the irradiation of the ultrasonic wave based on the irradiation condition, a communication device that can wirelessly communicate with a medicine introduction control device provided outside, A vibrator, a battery for supplying power to the communication device, and the control device transmits a reflected echo signal received by the vibrator to the drug introduction control device via the communication device. , Formed to control the irradiation position in the treatment area determined based on the ultrasonic image generated by the drug introduction control device,
    A drug introduction device which is mounted with an ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving surface of the vibrator in close contact with a body surface corresponding to the treatment area of the subject or embedded in the body.
  3. 　請求項1に記載の薬剤導入装置において、
    　前記被検体に巻き付けられるベルトによって前記被検体の体表面に密着させて装着されることを特徴とする薬剤導入装置。     In the drug introduction device according to claim 1,
    A drug introduction device, wherein the drug introduction device is mounted in close contact with the body surface of the subject by a belt wound around the subject.
  4. 　さらに、前記治療領域における血液中の薬剤濃度又は血液中の予め設定された指標成分の濃度の少なくとも一方を検出するセンサを備え、前記制御装置は、前記センサの検出値に基づいて前記超音波の照射を制御することを特徴とする請求項1に記載の薬剤導入装置。 Furthermore, a sensor for detecting at least one of a drug concentration in blood or a concentration of a preset index component in blood in the treatment region is provided, and the control device is configured to detect the ultrasonic wave based on a detection value of the sensor. 2. The drug introduction device according to claim 1, wherein irradiation is controlled.
  5. 　前記薬剤は、気泡の超音波造影剤とともに前記被検体の血管内に投与され、前記制御装置は、前記超音波を第1の照射強度に制御した後、該第1の照射強度よりも強い第２の強度に制御することを特徴とする請求項1に記載の薬剤導入装置。 The drug is administered into a blood vessel of the subject together with a bubble ultrasonic contrast agent, and the control device controls the ultrasonic wave to a first irradiation intensity and then has a first intensity higher than the first irradiation intensity. 2. The drug introduction device according to claim 1, wherein the drug introduction device is controlled to a strength of 2.
  6. 　さらに、前記薬剤又は気泡の超音波造影剤が混合された前記薬剤が収容されるタンクと、該タンク内の前記薬剤又は気泡の超音波造影剤が混合された前記薬剤を前記被検体の血管内に投与する投与装置とを備えてなることを特徴とする請求項1に記載の薬剤導入装置。 Further, a tank in which the medicine mixed with the medicine or bubble ultrasound contrast agent is stored, and the medicine in which the medicine or bubble ultrasound contrast agent in the tank is mixed are placed in the blood vessel of the subject. 2. The drug introduction device according to claim 1, further comprising an administration device that administers to each other.
  7. 　薬剤導入装置と薬剤導入制御装置とが相互に無線通信可能に構成され、
    　前記薬剤導入装置は、被検体との間で超音波を送受信する振動子と、前記薬剤導入制御装置の通信装置から送信された前記被検体の治療領域と前記超音波の照射条件に基づいて前記超音波の照射を制御する制御装置と、前記振動子と前記制御装置に電力を供給する電池とを備え、前記振動子の超音波送受信面を前記被検体の前記治療領域に対応させて体表面に密着させて又は体内に埋め込んで装着されるように構成され、
    　前記薬剤導入制御装置は、前記薬剤導入装置の通信装置から送信された前記超音波の反射エコー信号に基づいて超音波画像を生成する生成装置と、前記超音波画像上に被検体の治療領域を設定するとともに、該治療領域に超音波を照射して血管内に投与された薬剤を細胞内に導入する前記照射条件を入力するコントロールパネルとを備えてなる薬剤導入システム。     The drug introduction device and the drug introduction control device are configured to be able to communicate with each other wirelessly,
    The drug introduction device is based on a transducer that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, the treatment area of the subject transmitted from a communication device of the drug introduction control device, and the ultrasonic irradiation conditions. A body surface comprising a control device for controlling irradiation of ultrasonic waves, the vibrator and a battery for supplying power to the control device, and an ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving surface of the vibrator corresponding to the treatment area of the subject It is configured to be worn in close contact with or embedded in the body,
    The medicine introduction control device includes a generation device that generates an ultrasound image based on the reflected echo signal of the ultrasound transmitted from the communication device of the medicine introduction device, and a treatment area of the subject on the ultrasound image. A drug introduction system comprising: a control panel configured to input and set the irradiation condition for introducing a drug administered into a blood vessel by irradiating the treatment area with ultrasonic waves.
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