JP7763062B2 - Organ Model - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an organ model.

Organ models that mimic human organs have been proposed for use in surgical or examination training (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for producing an organ model made of silicone resin by forming a layer of silicone resin on the surface of a copy mold (made of ABS resin) and then dissolving the copy mold. Furthermore, a method for producing a copy mold is disclosed in which a copy mold is produced using a 3D printer using three-dimensional shape data created based on DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) data of the target organ obtained using computed tomography (CT) such as positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Patent document 2 discloses a simulated tissue structure in which multiple reduced diameter locations are formed by fitting multiple silicone bands evenly along the length of a cylindrical mandrel. The simulated tissue structure is a contoured silicone tube that mimics the look and feel of a real colon, and the locations where the silicone bands are fitted mimic the Houston valve.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-139069 Special table 2019-515324 publication

However, while the technology described in Patent Document 1 precisely replicates the shape of organs, it is difficult to achieve the same levels of flexibility, stretchability, and anisotropy (hereinafter collectively referred to as "physical properties") as those found in living organisms. The technology described in Patent Document 2 is difficult to manufacture.

The present invention has been made to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide another technology for realizing an organ model with physical properties that are close to those of a living body.

The present invention has been made to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized in the following forms.

(1) According to one aspect of the present invention, an organ model that mimics a living body part is provided. This organ model includes an approximately circular tubular expansion/contraction section that has an open first end and a second end opposite the first end and is radially expandable and contractible, and an approximately circular tubular section that has a connecting end that connects to the second end of the expansion/contraction section, and the inner diameter of at least a portion of the expansion/contraction section is smaller than the inner diameter of the connecting end of the tubular section in an initial contracted state.

With this configuration, the inner diameter of at least a portion of the expansion/contraction section is smaller than the inner diameter of the connecting end of the tubular section in its initial contracted state. Therefore, when a medical device (e.g., a catheter, guidewire, etc.) with an outer diameter large enough to fit through the tubular section is inserted into the expansion/contraction section from its first end and advanced into the expansion/contraction section, the medical device presses outward at the portion of the expansion/contraction section where the inner diameter is smaller than that of the medical device, expanding (stretching) the inner diameter. This organ model therefore makes it possible to simulate the physical properties of a living organism, such as flexibility, elasticity, and anisotropy.

(2) In the organ model of the above configuration, the side wall of the expansion/contraction section may be formed in an accordion-like fold, with a fold line extending substantially along the center line of the expansion/contraction section, and a cross section of the expansion/contraction section may include a first corner convex toward the center line of the expansion/contraction section and a second corner convex toward the outside of the expansion/contraction section. Increasing the angle of the peaks (second corners) and valleys (first corners) of the accordion folds allows the expansion/contraction section to expand in diameter, while narrowing the angle of the peaks and valleys of the accordion folds allows the expansion/contraction section to contract in diameter. Therefore, with this configuration, the expansion/contraction section can be expanded and contracted with a simple structure, making it easy to manufacture an organ model that mimics the physical characteristics of a living organism.

(3) In the organ model of the above configuration, the thickness of the first corner of the expansion/contraction portion may be thicker than the thickness of the second corner, and the radius of curvature of the first corner may be smaller than the radius of curvature of the second corner, in a cross section. In this way, the outer corner of the expansion/contraction portion is thinner, rounder, and softer than the inner corner, making it easier for the expansion/contraction portion to expand radially. Furthermore, because the inner corner of the expansion/contraction portion is thicker and sharper than the outer corner, the contact area with a medical device inserted into the expansion/contraction portion can be reduced, and the pressing force from the medical device can be efficiently transmitted to the expansion/contraction portion, making it easier for the expansion/contraction portion to expand.

(4) In the organ model of the above configuration, the expansion/contraction portion may have an outer diameter that gradually decreases from the first end toward the second end.

(5) The organ model of the above configuration may further include a joint member provided at the end of the expansion/contraction section on the first end side, and the joint member may have higher rigidity than at least one of the tubular section and the expansion/contraction section. In this way, the organ model can be easily attached to other devices, other organ models, etc. Furthermore, because the joint member has higher rigidity than at least one of the tubular section and the expansion/contraction section, it can be firmly attached to other devices, other organ models, etc.

(6) The organ model of the above configuration may further include an outer diameter maintaining member that maintains a constant outer diameter in at least a portion of the expansion/contraction section. For example, if an outer diameter maintaining member is provided in a portion where the inner diameter of the expansion/contraction section is smaller than the outer diameter of the medical device, when the medical device is advanced, the inner diameter expands but the outer diameter remains constant and does not expand, so that a pressing force is applied to the medical device from the side wall of the expansion/contraction section. As a result, the operator feels resistance when advancing the medical device. For example, the resistance caused by the sphincter of Oddi of the major duodenal papilla can be easily simulated by using a shape different from the actual shape of the living body.

The present invention can be realized in various forms, including a method for manufacturing an organ model, and an endoscopic simulation model equipped with an organ model.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a schematic external configuration of an organ model according to a first embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a schematic planar configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the elastic flange side. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Y-axis direction. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Z-axis direction. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a common bile duct model. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional configuration of a common bile duct model. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an enlarged schematic cross section of an expansion/contraction section. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the change in diameter of the middle part of the expansion/contraction part as the catheter is inserted. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the change in the inner diameter of the end portion on the first end side of the expansion/contraction section as the catheter is inserted. FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a schematic planar configuration of the common bile duct model according to the second embodiment, as viewed from the elastic flange side. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Y-axis direction. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Z-axis direction. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a common bile duct model. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional configuration of a common bile duct model. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a vertical cross section of an expansion/contraction section. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a planar configuration of the common bile duct model according to the third embodiment, as viewed from the elastic flange side. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Y-axis direction. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a planar configuration of a common bile duct model according to a fourth embodiment, as viewed from the first end side. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Y-axis direction. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a planar configuration of the common bile duct model according to the fifth embodiment, as viewed from the first end side. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a side configuration of the common bile duct model as viewed from the Y-axis direction.

First Embodiment
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating the external configuration of an organ model 1 according to a first embodiment. The organ model 1 is an organ model simulating the biliary pancreatic duct, and includes a common bile duct model 100 simulating the common bile duct, a first intrahepatic bile duct model 200 simulating the right hepatic duct and the intrahepatic bile duct connected to the right hepatic duct, a second intrahepatic bile duct model 300 simulating the left hepatic duct and the intrahepatic bile duct connected to the left hepatic duct, and a main pancreatic duct model 400 simulating the main pancreatic duct. The common bile duct model 100, the first intrahepatic bile duct model 200, the second intrahepatic bile duct model 300, and the main pancreatic duct model 400 have lumens that communicate with each other. In FIG. 1 and the subsequent figures, mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes are illustrated.

The organ model 1 is used for developing medical equipment and simulating treatment and examination procedures using medical devices. An example of a procedure using a medical device is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Generally, in ERCP, an endoscope is advanced to the greater duodenal papilla, and a medical device protruding from the tip of the endoscope is inserted from the papilla into the common bile duct, etc. Note that a medical device refers to a device for minimally invasive treatment or examination, such as a catheter or guidewire. The organ model 1 of this embodiment can be used, for example, for ERCP training and training in basket stone retrieval, which is performed following ERCP.

As shown in FIG. 1, the common bile duct model 100 comprises a tubular portion 10 having a substantially circular tube shape, an expansion/contraction portion 20 having a substantially circular tube shape connected to the tubular portion 10, an elastic flange 30 provided at the end of the expansion/contraction portion 20, and a connecting pipe portion 40 connected to the tubular portion 10 and to the first intrahepatic bile duct models 200 and 300 described above. The connecting pipe portion 40 comprises a main pipe portion 42 and a branch pipe portion 44 branching from the main pipe portion 42. The tubular portion 10 has a first connecting end 11 connected to the expansion/contraction portion 20 and a second connecting end 12 connected to the connecting pipe portion 40, and is a substantially circular tube whose diameter decreases from the second connecting end 12 toward the first connecting end 11. In this embodiment, the first connecting end 11 is also simply referred to as the "connecting end."

Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows the planar configuration of the common bile duct model 100 as viewed from the elastic flange 30 side. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows the side configuration of the common bile duct model 100 as viewed from the Y-axis direction. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows the side configuration of the common bile duct model 100 as viewed from the Z-axis direction. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows the cross-sectional configuration of the common bile duct model 100. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows the longitudinal cross-sectional configuration of the common bile duct model 100. Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows an enlarged cross-section of the expansion/contraction section 20. Figures 2 to 7 illustrate the initial state of the common bile duct model 100, i.e., a state in which no medical device is inserted.

The expansion/contraction section 20 is generally tubular, having an open first end 21 and a second end opposite the first end 21, with the second end 22 connected to the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10 (Figure 1). The sidewall of the expansion/contraction section 20 is accordion-folded (Figures 5 and 6), with the fold line FL generally aligned with the center line LO of the expansion/contraction section 20 (Figures 3 and 4). Therefore, by increasing the angle of the peaks and valleys of the accordion folds, the diameter of the expansion/contraction section can be increased, and by decreasing the angle of the peaks and valleys of the accordion folds, the diameter of the expansion/contraction section can be decreased. In other words, the expansion/contraction section 20 is formed to be radially expandable and contractible. As will be described later, the organ model 1 of this embodiment is integrally formed from the same material, and only the expansion/contraction section 20 expands and contracts radially.

As shown in Figure 5, the cross-sectional shape of the side wall of the expansion/contraction unit 20 is such that convex shapes that extend inward of the expansion/contraction unit 20 are arranged radially from the center line LO of the expansion/contraction unit 20, forming a so-called chrysanthemum shape. Here, the corner of the convex shape that extends toward the center line LO of the expansion/contraction unit 20 is called the first corner C1, and the corner of the convex shape that extends outward of the expansion/contraction unit 20 is called the second corner C2. The first corner C1 is also called the valley, and the second corner C2 is also called the peak.

As shown in Figure 7, in cross section, the thickness T1 of the first corner C1 of the expansion/contraction portion 20 is thicker than the thickness T2 of the second corner C2, and the radius of curvature R21 of the first corner C1 is smaller than the radius of curvature R22 of the second corner C2. The outer corner (second corner C2) of the expansion/contraction portion 20 is thinner, rounder, and softer than the inner corner (first corner C1), making it easier for the expansion/contraction portion 20 to expand radially. Furthermore, because the inner corner (first corner C1) of the expansion/contraction portion 20 is thicker and sharper than the outer corner (second corner C2), the contact area with a medical device inserted into the expansion/contraction portion 20 can be reduced, allowing the pressing force from the medical device to be efficiently transmitted to the expansion/contraction portion 20, making it easier for the expansion/contraction portion 20 to expand. Note that in the figure, only some of the first corners C1 and second corners C2 are labeled, and the remaining parts are not labeled.

An elastic flange 30 is provided at the end of the expansion/contraction unit 20 near the first end 21 (FIGS. 1 to 4 and 6). The elastic flange 30 is generally annular and connects the second corner C2 of the expansion/contraction unit 20 (FIG. 2), maintaining a constant outer diameter R1 of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction unit 20. The elastic flange 30 of this embodiment is configured to allow the organ model 1 to be attached to other devices via the elastic flange 30. That is, the elastic flange 30 of this embodiment functions as an outer diameter maintaining member that maintains a constant outer diameter of the expansion/contraction unit 20 and as a joint member when attaching the organ model 1 to other devices. For example, the organ model 1 can be attached to an endoscope model simulating an endoscope via the elastic flange 30, and a medical device protruding from the tip of the endoscope model can be inserted into the organ model 1 to perform the above-described ERCP training. The elastic flange 30 of this embodiment is also referred to as an "outer diameter maintaining member" or "joint member."

The elastic flange 30 has higher rigidity than the tubular portion 10 and the expansion/contraction portion 20. As will be described in detail later, the organ model 1 is integrally formed using a 3D printer using a silicone-based resin material. The elastic flange 30 is thicker than the tubular portion 10 and the expansion/contraction portion 20, and by forming a fold as shown in Figure 6, it has higher rigidity than the tubular portion 10 and the expansion/contraction portion 20.

The first end 21 of the expansion/contraction unit 20 is provided with multiple protrusions 23 that protrude in the positive direction of the X-axis (Figures 2, 4, and 6). In the figures, only some of the multiple protrusions 23 are labeled with reference numerals, and the remaining reference numerals are omitted. The protrusions 23 are approximately triangular pyramid-shaped. One protrusion 23 is provided for each of the multiple first corners C1 of the bellows-shaped side wall of the expansion/contraction unit 20, and the multiple protrusions 23 form an approximately hemispherical outer shape (Figures 4 and 6). This mimics the shape of the major duodenal papilla. Note that in other embodiments, the protrusions 23 may not be provided.

As described above, the side wall of the expansion/contraction section 20 is formed in a bellows shape, and the imaginary circle (shown by a dashed line) connecting the vertices of the first corner C1 shown in Figure 2 is the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20, and the diameter of this imaginary circle is the inner diameter R2. Similarly, the imaginary circle (shown by a dashed line) connecting the vertices of the second corner C2 is the outer circumference OC of the expansion/contraction section 20, and the diameter of this imaginary circle is the outer diameter R1. As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 6, the outer diameter R1 of the expansion/contraction section 20 decreases from the first end 21 toward the second end 22.

In the initial contracted state, the inner diameter R2 at the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20 is smaller than the inner diameter R3 (Figure 6) of the first connecting end 11 (the end connected to the expansion/contraction section 20) of the tubular section 10. In this embodiment, the second end 22 of the expansion/contraction section 20 has almost no bellows-like shape in the side wall, and the inner diameter R2 is approximately the same as the inner diameter R3 at the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the inner diameter R2 of the expansion/contraction section 20 is approximately constant at least in the portion from the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20 to the upper side of the main pancreatic duct model 400 (the positive direction of the X-axis is considered to be up), and as shown in Figure 6, the inner diameter R2 of this portion is smaller than the inner diameter R3 of the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10.

As described above, the elastic flange 30 is provided at the end of the expansion/contraction section 20 on the first end 21 side, thereby maintaining a constant outer diameter R1 of the expansion/contraction section 20. Furthermore, the second end 22 of the expansion/contraction section 20 is connected to the tubular section 10, and the outer diameter R1 of the second end 22 of the expansion/contraction section 20 is maintained constant by the tubular section 10. The portion of the expansion/contraction section 20 excluding both ends (hereinafter also referred to as the middle section) does not maintain a constant outer diameter R1, and is therefore capable of expansion and contraction.

Below, the change in diameter of the expansion/contraction section 20 will be explained using Figures 8 and 9, taking the example of a catheter 2 as a medical device inserted into the expansion/contraction section 20. Figures 8 and 9 show cross sections of the catheter 2.

Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the change in diameter of the middle part of the expansion/contraction section 20 as the catheter 2 is inserted. The upper diagram in Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional configuration of the expansion/contraction section 20 and corresponds to Figure 5. The lower diagram in Figure 8 illustrates the state in which the catheter 2 has been inserted into the middle part of the expansion/contraction section 20.

The outer diameter of the catheter 2 (lower part of Figure 8) is larger than the inner diameter R2 (upper part of Figure 8) of the portion of the expansion/contraction section 20 in its initial state shown in Figure 8. Therefore, when the catheter 2 is advanced within the expansion/contraction section 20, the first corner C1 of the bellows-shaped side wall of the expansion/contraction section 20 is pressed by the outer circumference OC2 of the catheter 2 and moves outward. As a result, as shown in the lower part of Figure 8, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 is pushed open by the catheter 2, expanding the inner diameter R2. In the lower part of Figure 8, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 in its initial state is indicated by a dashed line, and the expansion of the inner circumference IC is indicated by an arrow. The inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 expands as the catheter 2 is advanced, and after expansion, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 approximately coincides with the outer circumference OC2 of the catheter 2.

As described above, the expansion/contraction section 20 has a bellows-shaped sidewall, and the middle section does not have a component for maintaining a constant outer diameter. Therefore, when the catheter 2 is inserted, the first corner C1 moves and widens its angle, as described above. Accordingly, the second corner C2 also moves outward and widens its angle. As such, as the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 expands, the outer circumference OC also expands. In the lower diagram of Figure 8, the outer circumference OC of the expansion/contraction section 20 in its initial state is shown by a dashed line, and the expansion of the outer circumference OC is indicated by an arrow. At the middle section of the expansion/contraction section 20, both the inner diameter R2 and the outer diameter R1 expand as the catheter 2 advances. This allows the surgeon to insert the catheter 2 relatively easily. In other words, by including the expansion/contraction section 20, the organ model 1 can simulate the flexibility, stretchability, and anisotropy (easy radial expansion and contraction) of a living organism.

Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the change in the inner diameter of the end portion on the first end 21 side of the expansion/contraction section 20 as the catheter 2 is inserted. The upper diagram in Figure 9 schematically shows a portion of the planar configuration of the common bile duct model 100 as seen from the elastic flange 30 side, and corresponds to Figure 2. The lower diagram in Figure 9 illustrates the state in which the catheter 2 has been inserted from the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20.

The outer diameter of the catheter 2 is larger than the inner diameter R2 (top of Figure 9) of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20 in its initial state. Therefore, when the catheter 2 is inserted through the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20, the first corner C1 of the bellows-shaped side wall of the expansion/contraction section 20 is pressed by the outer circumference OC2 of the catheter 2 and moves outward. As a result, as shown in the bottom of Figure 9, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 at the first end 21 is pushed open by the catheter 2, expanding the inner diameter R2. In the bottom of Figure 8, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 in its initial state is shown by a dashed line, and the expansion of the inner circumference IC is indicated by an arrow. When the catheter 2 is inserted, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 expands, and after expansion, the inner circumference IC of the expansion/contraction section 20 approximately coincides with the outer circumference OC2 of the catheter 2.

As described above, the expansion/contraction section 20 has an elastic flange 30 at its end on the first end 21 side, which maintains a constant outer diameter. Therefore, unlike the intermediate section described above, the outer diameter cannot be expanded at the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20. At the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20, as shown in the lower part of Figure 9 , the bellows-shaped sidewall curves, changing the position of the first corner C1, thereby expanding the inner diameter R2 of the expansion/contraction section 20. Because the expansion/contraction section 20 is elastic, it attempts to return to the initial shape of the bellows-shaped sidewall. This restoring force presses the catheter 2, and the surgeon experiences some resistance when inserting the catheter 2. In the above-described ERCP, the surgeon inserts the catheter through the opening of the major duodenal papilla. During ERCP, the opening of the major duodenal papilla is typically constricted by the sphincter of Oddi, so the surgeon may experience some resistance when inserting the catheter. In the organ model 1 of this embodiment, an elastic flange 30 is provided at the end of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20, and the outer diameter of the expansion/contraction section 20 is maintained constant, which makes it possible to simulate the sensation of inserting a catheter through the opening of the major duodenal papilla.

The organ model 1 described above is preferably made of a transparent or translucent, flexible resin, such as a silicone-based resin or PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) resin. This allows for easy external observation of the medical device passing through the organ model 1, and also allows the physical properties of the expansion/contraction section 20 to be closer to those of a living body.

The organ model 1 can be produced as a whole using, for example, a 3D printer. Using a 3D printer allows the organ model 1 to be produced inexpensively and easily. It may also be produced using a processing method using a mold, such as injection molding, extrusion molding, or press molding.

As described above, the organ model 1 of this embodiment is equipped with an expansion/contraction section 20, which allows the physical properties of a living body (flexibility, elasticity, and anisotropy) to be simulated using a geometric shape that differs from the actual shape of the living body.

For example, when creating an organ model that precisely mimics the actual shape of a living organism, it may take several months to create the mold, and the mold costs are often expensive. Furthermore, in order to achieve the same levels of flexibility, stretchability, and anisotropy as an actual living organism in an organ model that precisely mimics the actual shape of a living organism, it may be necessary to use special materials, which may require time to develop and result in high material costs. In contrast, with the organ model 1 of this embodiment, as described above, the side walls of the expansion/contraction section 20 are formed in an accordion shape, which allows the physical characteristics of a living organism to be simulated using a geometric shape that differs from the actual shape of the living organism. This makes it possible to provide an organ model that is easier to create, for example, using a 3D printer, and is more inexpensive than organ models that mimic the actual shape of a living organism.

Second Embodiment
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the planar configuration of the common bile duct model 100A of the second embodiment, as seen from the elastic flange 30A side. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the side configuration of the common bile duct model 100A, as seen from the Y-axis direction. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the side configuration of the common bile duct model 100A, as seen from the Z-axis direction. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the transverse cross-sectional configuration of the common bile duct model 100A. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the longitudinal cross-sectional configuration of the common bile duct model 100A. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the longitudinal cross-section of the expansion/contraction section 20A. FIGS. 10 to 15 illustrate the initial state of the common bile duct model 100A, i.e., a state in which a medical device is not inserted.

The common bile duct model 100A of the second embodiment has an expansion/contraction section 20A instead of the expansion/contraction section 20 in the common bile duct model 100 of the first embodiment, and an elastic flange 30A instead of the elastic flange 30. In the embodiment described below, the same components as those in the organ model 1 of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and reference is made to the preceding description.

As shown in the figures, the expansion/contraction section 20A of the second embodiment has a bellows-shaped side wall, similar to the expansion/contraction section 20 of the first embodiment. In the expansion/contraction section 20 of the first embodiment, the inner diameter R2 is generally constant from the first end 21 to the upper side of the main pancreatic duct model 400 (the positive direction of the X-axis is considered to be up), and is smaller than the inner diameter R3 of the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10. In contrast, the inner diameter R2 of the expansion/contraction section 20A of the present embodiment decreases from the first end 21 toward the upper side of the main pancreatic duct model 400 (FIGS. 13 to 15), and the inner diameter R2 is smallest near the upper side of the main pancreatic duct model 400, and is smaller than the inner diameter R3 of the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10 (FIG. 15).

As shown in Figures 10 and 13, in the accordion-shaped side wall of the expansion/contraction section 20A of this embodiment, the thicknesses of the first corner C1A and the second corner C2A are approximately the same. Furthermore, at the end on the first end 21 side, the radii of curvature of the first corner C1A and the second corner C2A are approximately the same.

Furthermore, in the initial state, the angles of the first corner C1A and the second corner C2A of the expansion/contraction section 20A of this embodiment are wider than those of the expansion/contraction section 20 of the first embodiment.

Even in this way, when a medical device is inserted into the common bile duct model 100A as in the first embodiment, the medical device can easily expand the expansion/contraction section 20A radially, at least in the portion where the inner diameter R2 is smaller than the inner diameter R3. Therefore, the physical properties of a living body (flexibility, elasticity, and anisotropy) can be simulated using a geometric shape that differs from the actual shape of the living body.

In this embodiment, the expansion/contraction unit 20A has an end wall 24 that covers the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction unit 20A (Figures 10 and 14). As shown in Figure 14, the end wall 24 is connected to the end surface of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction unit 20A and covers the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction unit 20A. As shown in Figure 10, the end wall 24 is formed with a substantially circular through hole H whose center coincides with the center line LO of the expansion/contraction unit 20A, and multiple slits SL that connect to the through hole H. The multiple slits SL are arranged radially from the center line LO. This forms multiple tongue portions 26 that are substantially triangular in plan view. The corners of the tips of the tongue portions 26 are provided with protrusions 23 that protrude in the positive direction of the X-axis. In this embodiment, the opening diameter (inner diameter) of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction unit 20A in the initial state is the diameter R4 of the through hole H.

In this embodiment, the elastic flange 30A is provided at the end of the expansion/contraction portion 20A on the first end 21 side, as in the first embodiment. As shown in Figures 10 and 14, the elastic flange 30A is connected to the end wall 24 of the expansion/contraction portion 20A and is provided on the outside of the expansion/contraction portion 20A. In this embodiment, the function of maintaining a constant outer diameter at the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction portion 20A is mainly performed by the end wall 24.

The end wall 24 has multiple slits SL that connect to the through-hole H. Therefore, if the outer diameter of the medical device is larger than the diameter R4 of the through-hole H, the tongue portion 26 bends when the medical device is inserted, thereby expanding the opening diameter (inner diameter). Furthermore, when the medical device is removed from the expansion/contraction portion 20A, the tongue portion 26 returns to its initial state, and the opening diameter (inner diameter) returns to its initial state. This allows the inner diameter of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction portion 20A to be expanded or contracted.

Even in this way, when the operator inserts a medical device from the tip of the organ model 1A, the expansion/contraction section 20A can be easily expanded radially, and the first end 21 of the common bile duct model 100A can also simulate the physical properties of a living body (flexibility, elasticity, and anisotropy) by using a geometric shape that differs from the actual shape of the living body.

Third Embodiment
Fig. 16 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the planar configuration of the common bile duct model 100B of the third embodiment as seen from the elastic flange 30 side. Fig. 17 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the side configuration of the common bile duct model 100B as seen from the Y-axis direction. Figs. 16 and 17 illustrate the initial state of the common bile duct model 100B, i.e., a state in which no medical device is inserted.

The common bile duct model 100B of the third embodiment is equipped with an expansion/contraction section 20B instead of the expansion/contraction section 20 in the common bile duct model 100 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 17 , the expansion/contraction section 20B is mesh-like and narrows above the base of the main pancreatic duct model 400 (positive X-axis direction), with the inner diameter at this point being smaller than the inner diameter at the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10. In this embodiment, the expansion/contraction section 20B is mesh-like, and both the inner and outer diameters are freely expandable between the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the expansion/contraction section 20B. Even in this configuration, when a medical device is inserted into the expansion/contraction section 20B as in the first embodiment, the medical device can easily expand the expansion/contraction section 20B radially, at least in the portion where the inner diameter is smaller than the inner diameter at the first connecting end 11 of the tubular section 10. Therefore, by using a shape that differs from the actual shape of the living body, the physical properties of the living body (flexibility, stretchability, and anisotropy) can be simulated.

In the common bile duct model 100B of this embodiment, the inner diameter R2 of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20B is larger than the inner diameter of the first connection end 11 of the tubular section 10. This allows the operator to easily insert a medical device from the first end 21 of the common bile duct model 100B.

Fourth Embodiment
Fig. 18 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a planar configuration of the common bile duct model 100C according to the fourth embodiment, as viewed from the first end 21 side. Fig. 19 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a side configuration of the common bile duct model 100C, as viewed from the Y-axis direction. Figs. 18 and 19 illustrate the initial state of the common bile duct model 100C, i.e., a state in which no medical device is inserted.

The common bile duct model 100C of the fourth embodiment does not have the elastic flange 30 of the common bile duct model 100 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the expansion/contraction section 20C does not have the protrusion 23 of the expansion/contraction section 20 of the first embodiment at its first end 21. The bellows shape of the expansion/contraction section 20C is the same as that of the expansion/contraction section 20 of the first embodiment.

Even in this case, when a medical device similar to that of the first embodiment is inserted into the expansion/contraction section 20C, it easily expands radially, thereby simulating the physical properties (flexibility, elasticity, and anisotropy) of a living body.

Fifth Embodiment
Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a planar configuration of the common bile duct model 100D according to the fifth embodiment, as viewed from the first end 21 side. Fig. 21 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a side configuration of the common bile duct model 100D, as viewed from the Y-axis direction. Figs. 20 and 21 show the initial state of the common bile duct model 100D, i.e., a state in which no medical device is inserted.

The common bile duct model 100D of the fifth embodiment further includes an outer diameter maintaining member 50 in addition to the configuration of the common bile duct model 100C of the fourth embodiment. The outer diameter maintaining member 50 is formed in a substantially annular shape connecting the second corners C2 on the end surface of the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20C. This maintains a constant outer diameter at the first end 21 of the expansion/contraction section 20C.

In this way, as with the first embodiment, when inserting a medical device similar to that of the first embodiment into the expansion/contraction section 20C, the operator feels some resistance, which mimics the tactile sensation of inserting a medical device through the major duodenal papilla in an actual living body.

<Modification of this embodiment>
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the following modifications are also possible.

- In the above embodiment, an organ model simulating the biliary pancreatic duct was illustrated, but the organs to be simulated are not limited to those described in the above embodiment. For example, it is possible to simulate various organs with internal cavities, such as blood vessels such as cerebral blood vessels, the pancreas, duodenum, large intestine, small intestine, and stomach.

- In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the expansion/contraction section had accordion-shaped side walls, and an example was shown in which the expansion section had mesh-shaped side walls, but the shape of the expansion/contraction section is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, an expansion/contraction section may be configured with pleated side walls, such as box pleats or one-sided pleats. Even in this case, it is possible to simulate the physical characteristics of a living body by using a shape that differs from the actual shape.

- In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the inner diameter of the expansion/contraction section in part is smaller than the inner diameter of the first connecting end of the tubular section, but the inner diameter of the body throughout the entire expansion/contraction section may be smaller than the inner diameter of the first connecting end of the tubular section. Furthermore, the expansion/contraction section may have portions in which the inner diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the first connecting end of the tubular section at multiple locations along its length.

- In the above embodiment, the expansion/contraction section has an outer diameter that gradually decreases from the first end to the second end, but the outer diameter of the expansion/contraction section is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, the outer diameter may be constant, or may be partially reduced in diameter in the longitudinal direction.

- In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the outer diameter maintaining member was provided at the end portion on the first end side of the expansion/contraction section, but the outer diameter maintaining member can be provided at any position in the longitudinal direction of the expansion/contraction section.

- In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the expansion/contraction unit was provided at the tip of the organ model, but the location of the expansion/contraction unit is not limited to the tip and can be provided at any location. For example, in the development of medical equipment, the expansion/contraction unit may be provided at a location that simulates the area to be evaluated. Furthermore, the entire organ model may be formed using the expansion/contraction unit.

- The method for manufacturing the organ model is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. Furthermore, the materials used to form the organ model are not limited to the above-mentioned materials.

- In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the elastic flange had higher rigidity than the tubular portion and the expansion/contraction portion, but the elastic flange may also have higher rigidity than either the annular portion or the expansion portion. Also, the elastic flange may have lower rigidity than the annular portion and the expansion/contraction portion.

The present invention has been described above based on embodiments and modifications. However, the above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and equivalents thereof are also included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it may be deleted as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1A... Organ model 2... Catheter 10... Tubular portion 11... First connecting end 12... Second connecting end 20, 20A, 20B, 20C... Expansion/contraction portion 21... First end 22... Second end 23... Projection portion 24... End wall 26... Tongue portion 30, 30A... Elastic flange 40... Connecting pipe portion 42... Main pipe portion 44... Branch pipe portion 50... Outer diameter maintaining member 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D... Common bile duct model 200... First intrahepatic bile duct model 300... Second intrahepatic bile duct model 400... Main pancreatic duct model C1, C1A... First corner portion C2, C2A... Second corner portion FL... Folding line H... Through hole LO... Center line OC... Outer circumference OC2... Outer circumference R1... Outer diameter R2, R3...inner diameter R21, R22...curvature radius R4...diameter SL...slit

Claims (5)

An organ model that mimics a living body part,
an expanding/contracting section having a substantially cylindrical shape and having an open first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the expanding/contracting section being radially expandable and contractible;
a tubular portion having a substantially circular tube shape and a connection end connected to the second end of the expansion/contraction portion;
Equipped with
an inner diameter of at least a part of the expansion/contraction section in a contracted state, which is an initial state, being smaller than an inner diameter of the connection end of the tubular section;
The side wall of the expansion/contraction section is
The folding portion is formed in an accordion-like shape having alternating mountain folds and valley folds, and the folding line is substantially along the center line of the expansion/contraction portion,
The expansion/contraction unit is
An organ model having, in a cross section of the expansion/contraction section, a first corner portion that is convex toward the center line of the expansion/contraction section, and a second corner portion that is convex toward the outside of the expansion/contraction section . The organ model according to claim 1 ,
An organ model, wherein the expansion/contraction portion has, in a cross section, a thickness of the first corner portion that is thicker than a thickness of the second corner portion, and a radius of curvature of the first corner portion that is smaller than a radius of curvature of the second corner portion. 3. The organ model according to claim 1 or 2 ,
The organ model, wherein the expansion/contraction section has an outer diameter that gradually decreases from the first end toward the second end. The organ model according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
a joint member provided at an end of the expansion/contraction section on the first end side,
The organ model, wherein the joint member has higher rigidity than at least one of the tubular portion and the expansion/contraction portion. 5. The organ model according to claim 1,
The organ model further comprises an outer diameter maintaining member that maintains a constant outer diameter in at least a portion of the expansion/contraction section.