U.S. patent application number 14/025539 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-16 for detachable imaging device, endoscope having a detachable imaging device, and method of configuring such an endoscope.
This patent application is currently assigned to AVANTIS MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Avantis Medical Systems, Inc.. Invention is credited to Lex BAYER, Rupesh DESAI, John HIGGINS.
Application Number | 20140018624 14/025539 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38038948 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140018624 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BAYER; Lex ; et al. |
January 16, 2014 |
DETACHABLE IMAGING DEVICE, ENDOSCOPE HAVING A DETACHABLE IMAGING
DEVICE, AND METHOD OF CONFIGURING SUCH AN ENDOSCOPE
Abstract
An endoscope includes a detachable wireless imaging device and
an insertion tube having a distal end region. The attachment of the
detachable wireless imaging device detachably attaches the
detachable wireless imaging device to the distal end region of the
insertion tube.
Inventors: |
BAYER; Lex; (Palo Alto,
CA) ; DESAI; Rupesh; (San Jose, CA) ; HIGGINS;
John; (Los Altos, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Avantis Medical Systems, Inc. |
Sunnyvale |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
AVANTIS MEDICAL SYSTEMS,
INC.
Sunnyvale
CA
|
Family ID: |
38038948 |
Appl. No.: |
14/025539 |
Filed: |
September 12, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13454974 |
Apr 24, 2012 |
|
|
|
14025539 |
|
|
|
|
11609838 |
Dec 12, 2006 |
8182422 |
|
|
13454974 |
|
|
|
|
60750325 |
Dec 13, 2005 |
|
|
|
60761475 |
Jan 23, 2006 |
|
|
|
60772442 |
Feb 9, 2006 |
|
|
|
60802056 |
May 19, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
600/110 ;
600/112 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 1/053 20130101;
A61B 1/0676 20130101; A61B 1/0684 20130101; A61B 1/31 20130101;
A61B 1/00174 20130101; A61B 1/005 20130101; A61B 1/00135 20130101;
A61B 1/00163 20130101; A61B 1/00177 20130101; A61B 1/00101
20130101; A61B 1/05 20130101; A61B 1/00114 20130101; A61B 1/00016
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/110 ;
600/112 |
International
Class: |
A61B 1/05 20060101
A61B001/05; A61B 1/005 20060101 A61B001/005; A61B 1/31 20060101
A61B001/31; A61B 1/06 20060101 A61B001/06; A61B 1/00 20060101
A61B001/00 |
Claims
1-51. (canceled)
52. A camera assembly for providing or improving visualization
capability of a medical probe, the assembly comprising: a main body
configured to be mounted on a tip section of a medical probe,
wherein said main body comprises: at least one camera; and at least
one illumination source.
53. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is
essentially in a ring shape.
54. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is
essentially made of an elastic material.
55. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is a
sleeve.
56. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is a
clamp configured to be clamped to said tip section.
57. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is
configured to be mounted on said tip section such that said at
least one camera and at least one illumination source are pointing
rearwards, towards the proximal part of said tip section.
58. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is
configured to be mounted on said tip section such that said at
least one camera and at least one illumination source are pointing
forward.
59. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said main body is
configured to be mounted on said tip section such that said at
least one camera and at least one illumination source are pointing
rearwards, towards the proximal part of said tip section and at
least one camera and at least one illumination source are pointing
forward.
60. The assembly according to claim 52, comprising two cameras.
61. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said camera is
configured to wirelessly transmit an image signal.
62. The assembly according to claim 52, further comprising a
utility cable configured to receive video signal from said at least
one camera.
63. The assembly according to claim 62, wherein said utility cable
is further configured to supply electrical power to said at least
one camera.
64. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said at least one
illumination source comprises at least one discrete
illuminator.
65. The assembly according to claim 64, wherein said at least one
discrete illuminator comprises a light-emitting diode (LED).
66. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said at least one
camera comprises an image sensor.
67. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said at least one
camera comprises a lens assembly providing a field of view of 90
degrees or more.
68. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said at least one
camera comprises a lens assembly providing a field of view of 120
degrees or more.
69. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said medical probe
is an endoscope, having visualization capabilities.
70. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said endoscope is a
colonoscope.
71. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein said endoscope is a
flexible endoscope.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/750,325, filed Dec. 13, 2005, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/761,475, filed Jan. 23, 2006, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0003] This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/772,442, filed Feb. 9, 2006, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference,
[0004] This application further claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/802,056, filed May 19, 2006,
the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0005] The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/215,660, filed Aug. 29, 2005, is incorporated herein by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention relates to a detachable imaging
device, an endoscope having a detachable imaging device, and a
method of configuring an endoscope with a detachable imaging
device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0007] An endoscope is a medical device comprising a flexible tube
and a camera mounted on the distal end of the tube. The endoscope
is insertable into an internal body cavity through a body orifice
to examine the body cavity and tissues for diagnosis. The tube of
the endoscope has one or more longitudinal channels, through which
an instrument can reach the body cavity to take samples of
suspicious tissues or to perform other surgical procedures such as
polypectomy.
[0008] There are many types of endoscopes, and they are named in
relation to the organs or areas with which they are used. For
example, gastroscopes are used for examination and treatment of the
esophagus, stomach and duodenum; colonoscopes for the colon;
bronchoscopes for the bronchi; laparoscopes for the peritoneal
cavity; sigmoidoscopes for the rectum and the sigmoid colon;
arthroscopes for joints; cystoscopes for the urinary bladder; and
angioscopes for the examination of blood vessels.
[0009] Each endoscope has a single forward viewing camera mounted
at the distal end of the endoscope to transmit an image to an
eyepiece or video camera at the proximal end. The camera is used to
assist a medical professional in advancing the endoscope into a
body cavity and looking for abnormalities. The camera provides the
medical professional with a two-dimensional view from the distal
end of the endoscope. To capture an image from a different angle or
in a different portion, the endoscope must be repositioned or moved
back and forth. Repositioning and movement of the endoscope
prolongs the procedure and causes added discomfort, complications,
and risks to the patient. Additionally, in an environment similar
to the lower gastro-intestinal tract, flexures, tissue folds and
unusual geometries of the organ may prevent the endoscope's camera
from viewing all areas of the organ. The unseen area may cause a
potentially malignant (cancerous) polyp to be missed.
[0010] This problem can be overcome by providing an auxiliary
camera, which presents an image of the areas not viewable by the
endoscope's main camera. The auxiliary camera can be oriented
backwards to face the main camera. This arrangement of cameras can
provide both front and rear views of an area or an abnormality. In
the case of polypectomy where a polyp is excised by placing a wire
loop around the base of the polyp, the camera arrangement allows
better placement of the wire loop to minimize damage to the
adjacent healthy tissue.
[0011] Unfortunately, most of the endoscopes currently in use do
not have such an auxiliary camera. To replace these existing
endoscopes with new endoscopes with auxiliary cameras is expensive.
Therefore, it is desirable to provide the existing endoscopes with
retrofit auxiliary cameras. Additionally, to avoid the costs of
modifying existing endoscopes, it is desirable to provide retrofit
auxiliary cameras that do not require significant modification of
the existing endoscopes.
[0012] Although a channel of an endoscope can be used to
accommodate an auxiliary camera that does not require modification
of the endoscope, the loss of a channel may impair the endoscope's
ability to perform all of its designed functions. Thus the ability
of the retrofit auxiliary camera to function without using an
endoscope channel is desirable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] According to some aspects of the present invention, a
retrofit auxiliary camera is provided that does not require
significant modification of an existing endoscope or use of a
channel of the endoscope, thereby avoiding the costs of modifying
the endoscope and preserving all of the endoscope's designed
functions.
[0014] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a detachable
imaging device can be attached to a distal end region of an
endoscope's insertion tube. The detachable imaging device includes
an attachment that can detachably attach the imaging device to the
distal end region of the endoscope's insertion tube. The detachable
imaging device includes also a wireless imaging element connected
to the attachment.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, an
endoscope includes a detachable imaging device and an insertion
tube having a distal end region. The detachable imaging device
includes an attachment that detachably attaches the detachable
imaging device to the distal end region of the insertion tube, and
a wireless imaging element connected to the attachment.
[0016] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a
method of configuring an endoscope includes attaching an attachment
of a detachable imaging device of an endoscope to a distal end
region of the insertion tube of the endoscope.
[0017] In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the
attachment includes a ring. Preferably, the ring has an inner
diameter that is designed to provide a friction fit between the
inner surface of the ring and a cylindrical outer surface of the
distal end region of the insertion tube of the endoscope. The inner
diameter of the ring may be slightly smaller than the outer
diameter of the distal end region of the insertion tube to provide
the friction fit. Also the inner surface of the ring may include a
rubber or silicon surface.
[0018] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the
detachable imaging device includes a link that connects the imaging
device to the attachment. Preferably, the link is flexible.
[0019] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention,
the detachable imaging device includes an external control box that
is configured to adjust parameters of the wireless imaging
element.
[0020] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the
detachable imaging device includes an external control box that is
configured to send images from the wireless imaging element to a
patient records database.
[0021] In accordance with still another embodiment of the
invention, the detachable imaging device includes a support
mechanism that increases the rigidity of the detachable imaging
device and reduces the bending of the link.
[0022] In accordance with yet still another embodiment of the
invention, the wireless imaging element includes an imaging unit
and/or a light source. The imaging unit may be mounted on the
proximal end of the wireless imaging element and faces towards a
main imaging device mounted on the distal end of the insertion
tube. Preferably, the imaging unit and the main imaging device
provide different views of the same area. To reduce light
interference, the imaging element and the main imaging device and
their light sources may be turned on and off alternately.
Preferably the imaging element and the main imaging device and
their light sources are turned on and off at a sufficiently high
frequency that the eyes do not sense that the imaging element and
the main imaging device and their light sources are intermittently
turned on and off.
[0023] The wireless imaging element may include another imaging
unit, which is mounted on the distal end of the wireless imaging
element and faces in the same direction as the main imaging device.
The wireless imaging element may also include another light source,
which is mounted on the distal end of the wireless imaging element
and faces in the same direction as the main imaging device.
[0024] In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention,
the wireless imaging element includes a channel aligned with a
channel of the insertion tube. This channel of the wireless imaging
element may extend from the proximal end of the wireless imaging
element to the distal end of the wireless imaging element.
[0025] In accordance with a still further embodiment of the
invention, the wireless imaging element includes a housing that is
used to accommodate the wireless imaging unit. Preferably, the
housing includes two housing elements that sealingly form the
housing.
[0026] In accordance with a yet still further embodiment of the
invention, the detachable imaging device includes a link that
connects the imaging device to the attachment. Preferably, the
link, attachment, and one of the housing elements form a unitary
unit.
[0027] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the
wireless imaging element is accommodated within the attachment. In
some embodiments, the detachable imaging device includes two or
more wireless imaging elements, and the wireless imaging elements
are mounted on at least one of the distal end, proximal end and
side of the attachment.
[0028] Although certain aspects of the present invention have been
discussed so far in terms of a retrofit auxiliary imaging device,
it should be emphasized that the present invention is not limited
to a retrofit auxiliary imaging device. On the contrary, a
detachable imaging device of the present invention may be
manufactured as an original part of an endoscope. If the detachable
imaging device is needed to provide a rear or retrograde view of an
abnormality, the detachable imaging device is installed on the end
region of the insertion tube. Alternatively, if the detachable
imaging device is not needed, the endoscope can be used without the
detachable imaging device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] FIG. 1 shows an endoscope according to one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a view of the distal end of the insertion tube of
the endoscope of FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a detachable imaging device
of the endoscope of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 4 shows a transparent link connecting the attachment
and the imaging element of a detachable imaging device.
[0033] FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the detachable imaging
device of FIG. 3.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a view of a distal end region of the insertion
tube having a tacky surface.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a view of a distal end region of the insertion
tube having a circular groove.
[0036] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging
element housing.
[0037] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the imaging element printed
circuit.
[0038] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a detachable imaging device
with a forward viewing imaging unit, a forward facing light source,
and a channel.
[0039] FIGS. 11a, 11b, 12a, and 12b show a support mechanism of an
endoscope of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 13 shows an endoscope according to another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 14 shows an endoscope according to a further embodiment
of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 15 shows an insertion tube having a connector for
connecting a detachable imaging device to the wires in the
insertion tube.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0043] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary endoscope 10 of the present
invention. This endoscope 10 can be used in a variety of medical
procedures in which imaging of a body tissue, organ, cavity or
lumen is required. The types of procedures include, for example,
anoscopy, arthroscopy, bronchoscopy, colonoscopy, cystoscopy, EGD,
laparoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 1, the endoscope 10 may include an
insertion tube 12 and a control handle 14 connected to the
insertion tube 12. The insertion tube 12 may be detachable from the
control handle 14 or may be integrally formed with the control
handle 14. The diameter, length and flexibility of the insertion
tube 12 depend on the procedure for which the endoscope 10 is used.
The insertion tube 12 may be made from or coated with a lubricious
material to allow for easy insertion into and easy extraction from
a patient.
[0045] The control handle 14 may include one or more control knobs
16 that are attached to control cables 18 (FIG. 2) for the
manipulation of the insertion tube 12. Preferably, the control
cables 18 are symmetrically positioned within the insertion tube 12
and extend along the length of the insertion tube 12. The control
cables 18 may be anchored at or near the distal end of the
insertion tube 12 such that the rotation of the control knobs 16
moves or bends the insertion tube 12 up and down and/or side to
side. In some embodiments, a clutch or breaking component (not
shown) may be included with the control knobs 16 to prevent the
knobs 16 from being inadvertently rotated such that rotation can
only be caused by application of a certain degree of torque to the
control knobs 16.
[0046] Preferably, the control handle 14 has one or more ports
and/or valves. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the control
handle 14 has two ports and/or valves 20. The ports and/or valves
20 are in communication with their respective channels 22 (FIG. 2)
extending through the insertion tube 12. "Y" junctions can be used
to designate two ports to a single channel or one port to two
channels. The ports and/or valves 20 can be air or water valves,
suction valves, instrumentation ports, and suction/instrumentation
ports. In some embodiments, one of the channels can be used to
supply a washing liquid such as water for washing. A cap (not
shown) may be included at the opening of the washing channel to
divert the washing liquid onto a lens of an imaging device for
cleaning. Another channel may be used to supply a gas, such as
CO.sub.2 or air into the organ. The channels may also be used to
extract fluids or inject fluids, such as a drug in a liquid
carrier, into the body. Various biopsy, drug delivery, and other
diagnostic and therapeutic devices may also be inserted via the
channels to perform specific functions. In some embodiments,
various tools may be used with the endoscope 10, such as a
retractable needle for drug injection, hydraulically actuated
scissors, clamps, grasping tools, electrocoagulation systems,
ultrasound transducers, electrical sensors, heating elements, laser
mechanisms and other ablation means.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the insertion tube 12 may
additionally include one or more light sources 24, such as light
emitting diodes (LEDs) or fiber optical delivery of light from an
external light source, and an imaging device 26. The imaging device
26 may include, for example, a lens, single chip sensor, multiple
chip sensor or fiber optic implemented devices. The imaging device
26, in electrical communication with a processor and/or monitor,
may provide still images or recorded or live video images. Each
light source 24, individually, can be turned on or off. The
intensity of each can be adjusted to achieve optimum imaging.
[0048] An accessory outlet 28 (FIG. 1) at a proximal end of the
control handle 14 provides fluid communication between the air,
water and suction channels and the pumps and related accessories.
The same outlet or a different outlet can be used for electrical
lines to light and imaging components at the distal end of the
insertion tube 12.
[0049] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the endoscope 10 preferably
includes a detachable imaging device 30 attached to the distal end
region of the endoscope's insertion tube 14. The detachable imaging
device 30 includes an attachment 32 for detachably attaching the
imaging device 30 to the distal end region of the insertion tube
14, a wireless imaging element 34, and a link 36 connecting the
wireless imaging element 34 to the attachment 32.
[0050] In this embodiment, which is also shown in FIG. 5, the
attachment 32 is configured as a ring. Preferably, the attachment
32 has an inner diameter that is designed to provide a friction fit
between the inner surface 38 of the attachment 32 (FIG. 5) and a
cylindrical outer surface of the distal end region of the insertion
tube 14. This may mean that in the pre-install condition the inner
diameter of the attachment 32 is smaller than the outer diameter of
the distal end region of the insertion tube 14. When the attachment
32 is slid on the insertion tube 14, the inner surface 38 of the
attachment 32 compresses against the outer surface of the insertion
tube 14 to provide the friction fit. To secure the attachment 32 on
the insertion tube 32, the inner surface 38 of the attachment 32
may include a tacky and/or elastic surface. In some embodiments,
this surface may be the surface of a rubber or silicon inner ring
40 (FIG. 5). The rubber or silicon inner ring 40 may be attached to
the rest of the attachment 32 by means of an adhesive, welding,
mechanical over molding, or snaps. Alternatively, the attachment 32
may be made entirely from rubber or silicon. In general, the
attachment can be made from any compressive rubber or polymer or a
combination thereof.
[0051] In some cases such as when the detachable imaging device 30
is made as an original part of the endoscope 10 (i.e., not as a
retrofit device), the distal end region of the insertion tube 14
may have one or more features that help retain the detachable
imaging device 30. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the distal end
region of the insertion tube 14 may include a tacky surface 39 that
engages with the tacky inner surface 38 of the attachment 32 to
enhance the friction fit between the attachment 32 and the
insertion tube 14. Alternatively or additionally, as shown in FIG.
7, the distal end region of the insertion tube 14 may include a
circular groove 41 around the distal end region of the insertion
tube 14 for receiving the attachment 32. In general, the distal end
region of the insertion tube 14 may include any features that
enhance the attachment of the detachable imaging device 30 to the
distal end region of the insertion tube 14.
[0052] In general, the attachment may be of any suitable
configuration that can detachably attach the detachable imaging
device 30 to the distal end region of the insertion tube 14. For
example, the attachment may be an elastic tube that can be
elastically wrapped around the distal end region of the insertion
tube 14. Alternatively, the attachment may include one or more
screws that can be screwed to attach the imaging device to the
distal end region of the insertion tube 14 or unscrewed to detach
the imaging device from the distal end region of the insertion tube
14. The attachment may also be similar to the way by which a
suction cap for endoscopic mucosal resection is attached to a
colonoscope. In general, a suitable attachment may use one or more
of, for example, a clamp arrangement, a snap fit, a plastic
friction fit, or bonding.
[0053] The link 36 connects the imaging device 34 to the attachment
32. In the illustrated embodiment, the link 36 is a generally
elongated, flat, straight bar, although the link may be configured
in any suitable manner. For example, the link may be curved and may
have a circular or square cross-section. The link may comprise one
pole, as shown in FIG. 3, or two or more poles to enhance support
to the imaging element 34. In some embodiments, the link may be
made from a transparent material, and as shown in FIG. 5 the
transparent link may be a transparent tube 36a connected to the
circumferences of the attachment 32 and imaging element 34.
Preferably, the link 36 is suitably flexible to make it easier for
the imaging device to negotiate and accommodate the flexures along
the body cavity.
[0054] Preferably, the wireless imaging element 34 has an imaging
unit 42 and a light source 44 such as an LED, as shown in FIG. 5.
In this embodiment, the imaging unit 42 and light source 44 are
placed on the proximal end 46 of the wireless imaging element 34,
although they may be placed at any suitable locations on the
imaging element 34, including on the distal end or side of the
imaging element 34 or both. Preferably, the imaging unit 42 faces
backwards towards the main imaging device 26 and is oriented so
that the imaging unit 42 and the main imaging device 26 can be used
to provide different views of the same area. In the illustrated
embodiment, the imaging unit 42 provides a retrograde view of the
area, while the main imaging device 26 provides a front view of the
area.
[0055] Since the main imaging device 26 and the imaging unit 42 of
the detachable imaging device 30 face each other, the light source
24, 44 of one imaging device 26, 30 interferes with the other
imaging device 30, 26. To reduce the interference, polarizer
filters may be used with the imaging devices 26, 30 and light
sources 24, 44. The main imaging device 26 and its light sources 24
may be covered by a first set of polarizer filters of the same
orientation. And the wireless imaging unit 42 and light source 44
may be covered by a second set of polarizer filters orientated at
90.degree. relative to the first set of polarizer filters. The use
of polarizer filters to reduce light interference is well known and
will not be described in detail herein.
[0056] As an alternative to polarizer filters, the imaging devices
26, 30 and their light sources 24, 44 may be turned on and off
alternately to reduce or prevent light interference. In other
words, when the main imaging device 26 and its light sources 24 are
turned on, the imaging unit 42 and its light source 44 are turned
off. And when the main imaging device 26 and its light sources 24
are turned off, the imaging unit 42 and its light source 44 are
turned on. Preferably, the imaging devices 26, 30 and their light
sources 24, 44 are turned on and off at a sufficiently high
frequency that eyes do not sense that the light sources are being
turned on and off.
[0057] The imaging element 34 may include a switch (not shown) that
is used to connect power to the circuitries of the imaging element
34. When the switch is turned on, the circuitries of the imaging
element 34 are activated and the imaging unit 42 starts capturing
images and transmitting image signals. The switch can be a membrane
switch mounted on the imaging element 34. The switch may be sealed
with a biocompatible film (not shown), which can encase the imaging
element or a section thereof to fully seal the switch.
[0058] In some embodiments, a wireless switch may be provided in
placement of, or in addition to, the manual switch. The wireless
transceiver of the imaging device 34 may continually search for a
wireless enable signal from a particular address device or at a
particular frequency. This signal enables a logic command to all
the circuits in the imaging device 34 to switch from a low current
sleep mode to a full current operating mode.
[0059] The wireless imaging element 34 preferably includes a
housing 48a, 48b for accommodating the wireless imaging unit 42 and
light source 44. The housing 48a, 48b of the wireless imaging
element 34 preferably includes two housing elements 48a, 48b. The
housing elements 48a, 48b preferably have features, such as pins
and sockets, which allow the wireless imaging unit 42 and light
source 44 to be securely mounted within the housing elements 48a,
48b. The housing elements 48a, 48b are sealingly attached to each
other to maintain biocompatibility of the wireless imaging element
34 and prevent contaminants from entering the wireless imaging
element 34. The housing elements 48a, 48b may be sealingly attached
to each other in any suitable manner, including ultrasonic or
friction welding or adhesive bonding. The housing 48a, 48b may
include windows 50, 52 for the imaging unit 42 and light source 44,
respectively. Preferably, each window 50, 52 is sealed with a thin
clear cover that is attached to the housing 48a, 48b. In some
embodiments, the windows 50, 52 may be the polarizer filters
described previously.
[0060] In a preferred embodiment, a housing element 48a, the link
36, and the attachment 32 form a unitary unit made by means of, for
example, injection molding. The other housing element 48b may be
separately formed by means of, for example, injection molding.
Preferably, the molded units are fabricated from a biocompatible
material such as a biocompatible plastic. Alternatively, the
housing elements 48a, 48b, the link 36, and the attachment 32 may
be made as separate parts from the same material or different
materials and then attached to one another to form the wireless
imaging device 10.
[0061] In the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the
circuitry for the wireless imaging unit 42 is formed on a printed
circuit board (PCB) 54. The circuitry for the light source 44 may
also be formed on the PCB 54. In this preferred embodiment, the
circuitries for the imaging unit 42 and light source 44 are mounted
on one side of the PCB 54, and a power source 56, such as a button
battery cell, is clipped onto the other side of the PCB 54. The
wireless imaging element 34 may include a lens 58, image sensor 60,
wireless transceiver 62, power management unit 64, clock or crystal
66, and signal processing unit 68 as required by wireless
communication. The positive and ground power clips (not shown)
holding the power source 56 are connected to the power and ground
planes of the PCB 54 respectively to supply power to the
circuitries on the PCB 54.
[0062] The image sensor 60 may be any suitable device that converts
light incident on photosensitive semiconductor elements into
electrical signals. Such a device may detect color or
black-and-white images. The signals from the sensor are digitized
and used to reproduce the image. Two commonly used types of image
sensors are Charge Coupled Devices (CCD) such as LC 99268 FB
produced by Sanyo of Osaka, Japan and Complementary Metal Oxide
Semiconductor (CMOS) camera chips such as the OVT 6910 produced by
OmniVision of Sunnyvale, Calif.
[0063] The image data acquired by the image sensor 60 are
transmitted to the signal processing unit 68 for processing. The
processing may include one or more of multiplexing, encoding into
radio frequencies, and compression. The wireless protocol used for
image data transmission preferably is approved for medical use and
meets the data rate requirements for the image sensor output.
Suitable wireless protocols include, for example, the 802.11 and
Bluetooth standards. The Bluetooth standard operates in the
industrial, scientific and medical band (ISM band), has low
transmit power, and causes minimal interference. The output formats
for the image sensor 60 and the integrated circuits for image
signal processing are well known in the electronics industry and
are not explained in further detail. Once the image signal is
converted to a suitable format, the wireless transceiver 62
transmits the data to an external control box over the operation
frequency. Examples of wireless frequency bands used for similar
devices include the 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz bands. Once received by a
wireless receiver or transceiver of the external control box, the
image signal is fed to a signal processing circuit which converts
it to a video signal such as NTSC composite or RGB. This video
signal is then sent to a suitable connector for output to a display
device such as a monitor or television. In some embodiments, the
images from the detachable imaging device 30 and from the main
imaging device 26 can be shown together on the same display
device.
[0064] The external control box may include a PCB mounted circuitry
in a housing which transmits, receives and processes wireless
signals. The external control box has one or more of a wireless
transceiver, AC receptacle, decoding circuitry, control panel,
image and signal processing circuitry, antenna, power supply, and
video output connector.
[0065] The external control box may also be used as an interface to
the patient records database. A large number of medical facilities
now make use of electronic medical records. During the procedure
relevant video and image data may need to be recorded in the
patient electronic medical records (EMR) file. The signal
processing circuit can convert image and video data to a format
suitable for filing in the patient EMR file such as images in
.jpeg, tif, or .bmp format among others. The processed signal can
be transmitted to the medical professional's computer or the
medical facilities server via a cable or dedicated wireless link. A
switch on the control panel can be used to enable this
transmission. Alternatively the data can be stored with a unique
identification for the patient in electronic memory provided in the
control box itself. The signal processing circuit can be utilized
to convert the video and image data to be compatible with the
electronic medical records system used by the medical professional.
The processing may include compression of the data. A cable or a
wireless link may be used to transmit the data to a computer.
[0066] The image and signal processing circuitry of the external
control box includes one or multiple integrated circuits and memory
as needed along with associated discrete components. This circuit
allows the video signals to be processed for enhancing image
quality, enabling still images to be extracted from the video and
allow conversion of the video format to provide multiple output
formats. These functions can be interfaced for access via the
control panel.
[0067] The external control box may be used to adjust the
parameters of the imaging sensor 60. Preferably, the image sensor
60 allows different parameters such as brightness, exposure time
and mode settings to be adjusted. These parameters may be adjusted
by writing digital commands to specific registers controlling the
parameters. These registers can be addressed by their unique
numbers and digital commands can be read from and written to these
registers to change the parameters. The control box is used to
control these parameters by transmitting data commands to these
registers through the wireless protocol. The signal processing
circuit on the detachable imaging device 30 receives and then
decodes these signals into commands and feeds them to the image
sensor. This allows the various parameters to be adjusted.
[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, the power
source 56 of the detachable imaging device 30 is a rechargeable
power source. The rechargeable power source can be recharged in any
suitable manner. For example, the rechargeable power source may be
recharged via pins provided on the detachable imaging device. The
pins preferably are made from a biocompatible material and retain
its biocompatibility after sterilization up to a required number of
times.
[0069] Alternatively, the rechargeable power source may be charged
via inductive charging. One advantage of inductive charging is that
it does not required physical contact between the charger and the
detachable imaging device. This allows the detachable imaging
device to be fully sealed without any circuit components or metals
such as the charge pins being exposed to body liquids.
[0070] In operation, the power switch may be turned on first to
activate the detachable imaging device 30. At this point, the
detachable imaging device 30 begins transmitting captured digital
images wirelessly to the external control box. The control box then
processes the image signals and sends them to a display so that a
medical professional can visualize the images in real time. Once
the detachable imaging device 30 is turned on, it can be attached
to the distal end region of the endoscope's insertion tube 12, as
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. At this point, the main imaging device 26
provides a front view of an area, while the detachable imaging
device 30 provides a rear or retrograde view of the same area.
During the medical procedure, the endoscope is inserted into a
patient with the detachable imaging device 30 attached to the
distal end region of the insertion tube 12. The medical
professional can simultaneously visualize images from the main
imaging device 26 and from the attached imaging device 30. Lesions
hidden from the main imaging device 26 behind folds and flexures
can now be viewed by the medical professional from the images
provided by the detachable imaging device 30. When the procedure is
complete, the endoscope is removed from the patient, and the
detachable imaging device 30 can be detached from the distal end
region of the endoscope's insertion tube 12.
[0071] The control panel of the external control box can be used to
adjust the parameters of the detached imaging device 30 to achieve
an optimum image quality. Still images can be obtained using the
control panel. During the procedure, relevant video and image data
may be recorded in the patient's electronic medical records (EMR)
file.
[0072] The wireless imaging element 34 may additionally include a
forward viewing imaging unit 70 and a forward facing light source
72, as shown in FIG. 10. This forward viewing imaging unit 70
allows more effective navigation of the endoscope 10. Additionally,
to allow an accessory to reach the area in front of the wireless
imaging element 34, the wireless imaging element 34 may be
configured so as not to obstruct one or more channels 22 of the
insertion tube 12. For example, the wireless imaging element 34 may
be made small enough so that it does not obstruct one or more
channels 22 of the insertion tube 12. Alternatively, the wireless
imaging element 34 may include a channel 74 (FIG. 10) aligned with
a channel 22 of the insertion tube 12. This channel 74 allows an
accessory to reach the area in front of the wireless imaging
element 34.
[0073] The endoscope 10 may further include a support mechanism,
which increases the rigidity of the detachable imaging device 30
during insertion of the endoscope 10 into the body. This support
mechanism preferably reduces or eliminates the bending of the link
36 of the detachable imaging device 30 during insertion. An
embodiment 80 of the support mechanism is shown in FIGS. 11a, 11b,
12a, and 12b. The exemplary support mechanism 80 includes a rod 82
that is rigid at its distal end region 84 but is otherwise
flexible. The exemplary support mechanism 80 may further include a
locking mechanism 86 that locks the distal end of the rod 82 to the
wireless imaging element 34. As shown in FIGS. 11b and 12b, the
lock mechanism 86 includes mating grooves 88, 90 that are disposed
on the distal end of the rod 82 and the wireless imaging element
34, respectively. The grooves 88, 90 can be interlocked by applying
a torque to turn the rod 82 at the proximal end of the insertion
tube 12, and can be unlocked by applying a torque in the opposite
direction. The proximal end (not shown) of the rod 82 can be locked
to the channel entry port to secure the locking mechanism 86 in the
locked position.
[0074] Before the insertion of the endoscope 10 in the body, the
rod 82 is introduced from the proximal end of the insertion tube 12
into a channel 22 of the insertion tube 12, and the locking
mechanism 86 locks the distal end of the rod 82 to the wireless
imaging element 34. At this position, the rigid distal end region
84 of the rod 82 keeps the detachable imaging device 30 rigid.
After the insertion of the endoscope 10 in the body, the locking
mechanism 86 can be unlocked, and the rod 82 can be retracted from
the channel 22 of the insertion tube 12.
[0075] In some embodiments of the present invention, as shown in
FIG. 13, an endoscope 100 may include a detachable imaging device
134 that uses wires 102 to communicate with the external control
box, including transmitting video signals to the external control
box and receiving power and control signals from the external
control box. With this arrangement, the operation of the detachable
imaging device 134 is not limited by battery life. As shown in FIG.
13, the wires 102 may be embedded in a sheath 104 which slides over
the insertion tube 112 of the endoscope 100. This allows the
channels 122 of the insertion tube 112 to be used by accessories
and the endoscope 100 to retain all of its designed functions.
Preferably, the sheath 104 is made from a biocompatible material
such as latex, silicon and medical grade rubbers which are flexible
enough to not restrict the movement of the insertion tube 112 and
firmly grip the outer surface of the insertion tube 112.
Alternatively this sheath 104 may replace the outer covering of the
insertion tube 112 so that it would serve the dual function of
covering the insertion tube 112 and the wires 102 without
increasing the diameter of the insertion tube 112.
[0076] FIG. 14 illustrates additional embodiment 200 of the present
invention that includes an insertion tube 212 and an attachment 232
mounted on the distal end region of the insertion tube 212. This
attachment 232 may have some or all of features of the attachment
32 shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. Additionally, the attachment 232 is
configured to accommodate one or more imaging units 242 and light
sources 244 of the endoscope 200. In other words, the entire
detachable imaging device 230 is mounted on the distal end region
of the insertion tube 212 and does not extend beyond the distal end
of the insertion tube 212. The imaging units 242 and light sources
244 may be mounted at any suitable locations on the attachment 232
and may be oriented in any directions. In this embodiment, the
imaging units 242 and light sources 244 are placed on a proximal
end of the attachment 232 and face backwards, although they may be
alternatively or additionally placed on a distal end and/or side of
the attachment 232 and face forwards and/or sideways. The imaging
units 242 and light sources 244 may be evenly spaced around the
attachment 232. The images from the imaging units 242 may be
incorporated or combined to form a larger or more complete view of
the body cavity such as a 360.degree. view of the body cavity. One
advantage of the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 is the reduction or
elimination of the mutual light interference between the main
imaging device 26 and the imaging units 242 on the attachment 232
because the imaging units 242 and light sources 244 are placed
behind the main imaging device and light sources on the distal end
of the insertion tube 212.
[0077] In a further embodiment of the present invention, an
endoscope includes an insertion tube and a detachable imaging
device detachably attached to the distal end region of the
insertion tube. In this embodiment, the detachable imaging device
communicates with the external control box via wires embedded in
the insertion tube for power supply and/or data communication. The
term "wires" is broadly defined to include any power and
communication lines, such as metal wires and fiber optic cables.
Preferably, as shown in FIG. 15, the insertion tube 312 has one or
more connectors 313 for connecting the detachable imaging device to
the wires in the insertion tube. In some embodiments, the one or
more connector may be placed in the distal end region of the
insertion tube. The one or more connectors may include one ore more
power couplings 313a for providing power from the endoscope's base
to the detachable imaging device and/or one or more video couplings
313b for coupling video images from the detachable imaging device
to the base.
[0078] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in
the art that changes and modifications can be made without
departing from this invention in its broader aspects. Therefore,
the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such
changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope
of this invention.
* * * * *