The Japan Atomic Energy Agency (President Yuichi Tonozuka)(herein after referred to as JAEA) has launched an industry-university collaborative promotion team in June 2004. The objective of this arrangement is to apply the research results of optical fiber measurements that is acquired through the development of maintenance technology of International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor(ITER). As part of the technical development, joint research of small intestine endoscope, which can be used for ileus patients has been conducted by Professor Junji Yoshino (2nd Dept. of Internal Medicine) of Fujita Health University(President Masao Yamaji) and researchers from Fujikura Ltd (President Kazuhiko Ohashi) and the prospect of the utilization was acquired.

Until now, the applicable small intestine endoscope was not put into practical use for the patient with ileus or adhesion. Then, with the innovation of connecting the extra fine optical fiberscope, which is developed by JAEA, and the medical tube (Ileus Tube) used for the postoperative ileus and adhension patient, the visual observation of inner small intestine has become possible.

The scope is narrow in shape and its insertion is made possible by using already body-detained Ileus Tube, so the time required for its insertion is short. As a result, any pathological changes in patient is promptly observable, and it reduces burden on patient. In addition, for the structure of using Ileus Tube, the continuous and thorough observation of inner intestine could be conducted while drawing out its tube. From now on, the composite-type optical fiberscope which is available to transmit the laser is developed, and the multi-functionalization is being planned to further development so that the autofluorescence, the local area photodynamic therapy (PDT), the hyperthermia and the ablation by the laser irradiation may be possible.

The result obtained from this research development will be announced at “The 23rd Japan Society of Colon Examination”(on November 12 to 13 at Nagoya Congress Center.)

Supplementary document