THROAT EXAMINATION APPARATUS

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a throat examination device (1) for examining a throat of a patient. The throat examination device (1) has a support arm (7) having a longitudinal axis (X); and an imaging unit (10). The imaging unit (10) is disposed on the support arm (7) and includes at least one imaging sensor (11-n) for capturing an image of at least a portion of one or more of the oral cavity, the oropharynx and the laryngopharynx. The imaging unit (10) has a transverse angle of view (TAOV) in a transverse plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) of the support arm (7). The imaging unit (10) may be provided in an imaging module (3) which is removably mounted to the support arm (7). A disposable cover (45) may be provided over the imaging unit (10).

Claims

1-24. (canceled)

25. A throat examination device for examining a throat of a patient, the throat examination device comprising: a support arm having a longitudinal axis (X), the support arm having a rigid construction; a handle disposed at a proximal end of the support arm; and an imaging module comprising an imaging unit disposed at a distal end of the support arm, the imaging unit comprising at least one imaging sensor for capturing an image of at least a portion of a pharynx and at least a portion of an oral cavity; the imaging module having one wide-angle lens disposed in a distal location and having an optical axis substantially aligned with or parallel to the longitudinal axis; wherein the angular orientation of the imaging unit is fixed relative to the longitudinal axis.

26. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the wide-angle lens is a spherical lens or a part-spherical lens.

27. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the wide-angle lens is a hemispherical lens.

28. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the imaging unit comprises a plurality of the imaging sensors.

29. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25 comprising at least one control unit, the at least one control unit comprising: an electronic processor having: one or more electrical input for receiving image data generated by the at least one imaging sensor; and/or one or more electrical output for outputting image data to an external device.

30. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 29 comprising a user interface for generating an image capture request in dependence on a user input, the at least one control unit being configured to capture image data generated by the at least one imaging sensor in dependence on the image capture request.

31. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the imaging module is removably mounted on the support arm.

32. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 31 comprising one or more mechanical fastener for releasably fastening the imaging module to the support arm.

33. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25 comprising a cover for covering at least a portion of the imaging module.

34. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the support arm comprises a cylindrical casing.

35. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the support arm has a diameter less than or equal to 20 mm.

36. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the support arm is removably mounted to the handle.

37. A throat examination device as claimed in claim 25 comprising one or more light emitting devices disposed on the support arm and/or the imaging module.

38. A throat examination device for examining a throat of a patient, the throat examination device comprising: a support arm having a longitudinal axis; and an imaging module comprising at least one imaging sensor for capturing an image of at least a portion of one or more of: the oral cavity, the oropharynx and the laryngopharynx; wherein the imaging module is removably mounted on the support arm.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0085] One or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0086] FIG. 1A shows a schematic representation of a throat examination device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0087] FIG. 1B shows a schematic representation of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1A without the imaging module in place;

[0088] FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a control unit for the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1;

[0089] FIG. 3A shows an axial end elevation of the support arm of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1;

[0090] FIG. 3B shows a side elevation of a distal end of the support arm of the throat examination device;

[0091] FIG. 3C shows a side elevation of a proximal end of the support arm of the throat examination device;

[0092] FIG. 4A shows a plan elevation of a handle of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1;

[0093] FIG. 4B shows a side elevation of the handle of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1;

[0094] FIG. 5A shows a first end elevation of the imaging module of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1;

[0095] FIG. 5B shows a second end elevation of the imaging module of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 5A;

[0096] FIG. 5C shows a plan elevation of the imaging module shown in FIG. 5A;

[0097] FIG. 5D shows a side elevation of the imaging module shown in FIG. 5A;

[0098] FIG. 6A shows a first end elevation of the disposable cover for removably fitting over the imaging module of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 1;

[0099] FIG. 6B shows a plan elevation of the disposable cover shown in FIG. 6A;

[0100] FIG. 6C shows a side elevation of the disposable cover shown in FIG. 6A;

[0101] FIG. 7A illustrates the positioning of the throat examination device according to an embodiment of the present invention in an oral cavity of a patient;

[0102] FIG. 7B illustrates the field of view of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 7A;

[0103] FIG. 8 illustrates the positioning of a flexible endoscope through a nasal cavity of a patient;

[0104] FIG. 9 shows an end view of a variant of the imaging module shown in FIG. 5A in which the first and second lenses partially overlap with each other;

[0105] FIG. 10A shows a side elevation of the imaging module of the throat examination device according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0106] FIG. 10B shows an end elevation of the imaging module of the throat examination device shown in FIG. 10A; and

[0107] FIG. 10C shows a side elevation of the imaging module shown in FIG. 10A illustrating the field of view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0108] A throat examination device 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. The throat examination device 1 is an oral cavity insertion instrument adapted to be inserted into an oral cavity of a patient. The throat examination device 1 is suitable for examining the laryngopharynx (laryngeal pharynx), for example. At least in certain embodiments, the throat examination device 1 may be suitable for examining the oral cavity and/or the pharynx.

[0109] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the throat examination device 1 comprises an imaging module 3, a control unit 5, a support arm 7 and a handle 9. The imaging module 3 comprises an imaging unit 10 for capturing an image IMG of at least a portion of the laryngopharynx. The imaging module 3 forms a camera head for the throat examination device 1. The imaging unit 10 comprises at least one imaging sensor 11-n and one or more lens 12-n. The or each imaging sensor 11-n comprise an electronic sensor and may, for example, comprise a charge-coupled device (CCD) or an active-pixel sensor (CMOS sensor). The at least one imaging sensor 11-n is configured to generate image data IMD-n which is output to the control unit 5. The image data IMD-n may comprise a photographic (static) image and/or a video (dynamic) image. In the present embodiment, the imaging module 3 comprises a first imaging sensor 11-1 associated with a first lens 12-1; and a second imaging sensor 11-2 associated with a second lens 12-2. The first and second imaging sensors 11-1, 11-2 are configured to capture two images which are composited to form the image IMG for output. The first and second imaging sensors 11-1, 11-2 may, for example, output first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2 respectively. The imaging module 3 is detachable from the support arm 7. In a variant, the imaging module 3 may be fixedly mounted to the support arm 7, or may be formed integrally with the support arm 7.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 5 comprises at least one electronic processor 13 and a memory device 15. The at least one electronic processor 13 has at least one electrical input 17 for receiving the image data IMD-1, IMD-2 generated by the first and second imaging sensors 11-1, 11-2. The at least one electronic processor 13 is configured to generate composite image data IMD-C by compositing the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2 captured by the first and second imaging sensors 11-1, 11-2. The at least one electronic processor 13 has at least one electrical output 19 for outputting the composite image data IMD-C, for example to an external processing unit or a storage device. The composite image data IMD-C may be output for display on a terminal or screen 20 connected to the throat examination device 1. The at least one electronic processor 13 is configured to execute a set of computational instructions stored on the system memory 15. When executed, the computational instructions cause the at least one electronic processor 13 to perform the method(s) described herein. The control unit 5 is disposed in the handle 9 in the present embodiment. In a variant, the control unit 5 could be disposed externally, for example in a separate processing unit.

[0111] As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, the support arm 7 is generally cylindrical and has a central longitudinal axis X. The external diameter of the support arm 7 is approximately 15 mm. It will be understood that the external diameter of the support arm 7 may be less than or greater than 15 mm. An external diameter of less than approximately 20 mm is preferred. The total length of the support arm 7 (incorporating the handle 9) is approximately 200 mm. The diameter of the support arm 7 is substantially constant along the longitudinal axis X. The support arm 7 has a rigid (inflexible) composition such that the throat examination device 1 undergoes little or deformation or deflection under normal operating conditions. The support arm 7 comprises a casing 21 moulded from a plastics material. In the present embodiment, the casing 13 is a single-use item for disposal after one use. The casing 21 is replaced to ensure that the throat examination device 1 is sterile.

[0112] The throat examination device 1 comprises a first mounting assembly 23 for releasably mounting the support arm 7 to the handle 9. As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, the first mounting assembly 23 comprises cooperating first male and female connectors 25A, 25B. The first male connector 25A is mounted on a superior (upper) end of the handle 9 and comprises a shaft having an external thread. The first male connector 25A may, for example, be an insert mounted in the handle 9. The first male connector 25A in the present embodiment comprises a threaded shaft having a diameter of 5 mm. The first female connector 25B comprises an aperture having an internal thread for receiving the first male connector 23A. The first female connector 25B may comprise an insert, such as a threaded metal insert; or may be integrally moulded in a sidewall of the support arm 7. In the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 3C, the first female connector 25B comprises a cylindrical insert having a diameter of approximately 10 mm. The first male and female connectors 25A, 25B extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the support arm 7. In a variant, the first male connector 25A may be provided on the support arm 7. Other types of connector may be used. Alternatively, or in addition, the first mounting assembly 23 may comprise a locking mechanism (not shown) for locking the support arm 7 to the handle 5. By way of example, the locking mechanism may comprise a spring-biased member (such as a ball bearing) for engaging the support arm 7 to inhibit or restrict movement relative to the handle 9.

[0113] The imaging module 3 is removably mounted to the support arm 7. The throat examination device 1 comprises a second mounting assembly 27 for releasably mounting the imaging module 3 to the support arm 7. As shown in FIGS. 3B and 5C, the second mounting assembly 27 comprises cooperating second male and female connectors 29A, 29B. The second male connector 29A is disposed centrally on a distal end of the support arm 7. The second male connector 29A is in the form of a shaft having an external thread. The second male connector 29A may, for example, be an insert mounted in the support arm 7. The second male connector 29A in the present embodiment comprises a threaded shaft having a diameter of 5 mm. The second female connector 29B is disposed in a proximal end of the imaging module 3. The second female connector 29B comprises an aperture having an internal thread for receiving the second male connector 29A. The second female connector 29B may comprise an insert, such as a threaded metal insert, or may be integrally moulded in a sidewall of the support arm 7. The second male and female connectors 29A, 29B extend along the longitudinal axis X of the support arm 7. In a variant, the second male connector 29B may be provided on the support arm 7. Other types of connector may be used. First and second anchor points 31A, 31B are disposed on opposing sides of the distal end of the support arm 7. The first and second anchor points 31A, 31B are displaced from the distal end of the support arm 7 by approximately 30 mm in the present embodiment. Alternatively, or in addition, the first mounting assembly 23 may comprise a locking mechanism (not shown) for locking the imaging module 3 to the support arm 7. The locking mechanism may, for example, comprise a spring-biased member for engaging the imaging unit 4 to inhibit or restrict movement relative to the support arm 7.

[0114] The imaging module 3 comprises a central axis which is at least substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis X of the support arm 7. In a variant, the imaging module 3 may be inclined at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis X. The imaging module 3 comprises a housing 35 profiled to form a continuation of the support arm 7. The housing 35 has the same transverse section as that of the support arm 7. The housing 35 is generally cylindrical and has a diameter of approximately 15 mm and a length of 40 mm. The imaging module 3 comprises first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 associated with the first and second imaging sensors 11-1, 11-2.

[0115] The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 are mounted in first and second lens apertures 39A, 39B formed in the housing 35. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 in the present embodiment are oriented in opposite directions. In a variant, the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 mat be angularly and/or spatially offset from each other. The first lens 12-1 is disposed on a superior (upper) surface of the imaging module 3; and the second lens 12-2 is disposed on an inferior (lower) surface of the imaging module 3. The first lens 12-1 has a first optical axis Y1; and the second lens 12-2 has a second optical axis Y2. The first and second optical axes Y1, Y2 are aligned with each other and extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. As shown in FIG. 5D, the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 project radially outwardly beyond an outer wall of the housing 35.

[0116] The first lens 12-1 is a wide-angle lens having a first field of view FOV1. As shown in FIG. 5A, the first field of view FOV1 has a first (subsidiary) transverse angle of view TAOV1 in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. As shown in FIG. 5D, the first field of view FOV1 has a first longitudinal angle of view LAOV1 in a plane extending along the longitudinal axis X. The first transverse angle of view TAOV1 defines an angular extent of the first field of view FOV1 in a circumferential direction around an exterior of the imaging module 3. The first longitudinal angle of view LAOV1 defines an angular extent of the first field of view FOV1 in a longitudinal direction.

[0117] The second lens 12-2 is a wide-angle lens having a second field of view FOV2. As shown in FIG. 5A, the second field of view FOV2 has a second (subsidiary) transverse angle of view TAOV2 in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. As shown in FIG. 5D, the second field of view FOV2 has a second longitudinal angle of view LAOV2 in a plane extending along the longitudinal axis X. The second transverse angle of view TAOV2 defines an angular extent of the second field of view FOV2 in a circumferential direction around an exterior of the imaging module 3. The second longitudinal angle of view LAOV2 defines an angular extent of the second field of view FOV2 in a longitudinal direction.

[0118] In the present embodiment, the first transverse angle of view TAOV1 is approximately 180°; and the second transverse angle of view TAOV2 is approximately 180°. In a variant, the first and second transverse angles of view TAOV1, TAOV2 may each be greater than or equal to 160°. The first and second lens 12-1 are arranged such that the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 do not overlap each other. The first and second transverse angles of view TAOV1, TAOV2 are subsidiary angles in this arrangement which cumulatively define the transverse angle of view of the imaging unit 10 in the transverse plane. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 are arranged to provide a combined transverse angle of view AOV1 of approximately 360° about the longitudinal axis X. The first longitudinal angle of view LAOV1 may be in the range 90° to 135°; and the second longitudinal angle of view LAOV2 may be in the range 90° to 135°. In a variant, the first and second transverse angles of view TAOV1, TAOV2 may be greater than 180°. The first and second lens 12-1 in this arrangement have first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 which partially overlap each other.

[0119] The image IMG in the present embodiment is a composite image composed of at least a portion of each of the images within the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 of the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2. At least in certain embodiments, the image IMG has an angular extent of approximately 360° about the longitudinal axis X. Thus, the image IMG provides a substantially continuous (i.e. uninterrupted) representation of the region extending around the longitudinal axis X. In normal use, the image IMG may include a portion of the oral cavity and/or a portion of the patient’s throat. At least a portion of each of the images within the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 may be stitched together to form the image IMG. The images may be cropped or otherwise transformed to form the image IMG.

[0120] A wireless connection between the imaging module 3 and the control unit 5 may be established using a suitable wireless connection. For example, a wireless connection may be established using Bluetooth (RTM), Wi-FI (RTM), or a cellular communication network (such as 4G or 5G). Alternatively, or in addition, a wired connection may be established between the imaging module 3 and the control unit 5.

[0121] The imaging module 3 in the present embodiment comprises a wireless (RF) transmitter T1 for transmitting the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2 to the control unit 5. The control unit 5 comprises a wireless (RF) transmitter R1 for receiving the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2. A short-range communication protocol may be used to transmit the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2. A processor (not shown) may optionally be provided in the imaging module 3 to control transmission of the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2. The processor may optionally process the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2 prior to transmission to the control unit 5, for example to generate the composite image IMG. In a variant, a wired connection may be established between the imaging module 3 and the control unit 5 for transmission of the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2. The control unit 5 is configured to process the image data captured by the at least one imaging sensor 11-n. The electronic processor 13 may perform image processing on the at least one set of image data IMD-n. For example, the electronic processor 13 may apply a mapping algorithm or a transform to the at least one set of image data IMD-n to compensate for optical distortions inherent in the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2. The electronic processor 13 may correct image distortions caused by the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2. The electronic processor 13 may apply a mapping algorithm or a transform. The processed image data may be combined to generate composite image data IMD-C. The electronic processor 13 may perform a cropping action and/or a transformation function to the first and second image data IMD-1, IMD-2. The control unit 5 may output the processed image data for storage and/or display on an external terminal. The external terminal may be local, for example having a direct (wired or wireless) connection to the throat examination device 1. Alternatively, or in addition, the external terminal may be remote, for example connected to the throat examination device 1 via the internet or other network connection. The displayed image IMG may be reviewed by a physician or other medical practitioner.

[0122] The imaging module 3 comprises one or more light source 41 for illuminating the oral cavity and throat of a patient. The one or more light source 41 comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED). The one or more light source 41 may be disposed on one or both lateral sides of the imaging module 3; and/or at a distal end of the imaging module 3. The one or more light source 41 may be mounted so as to lie at least substantially flush with an outer surface of the housing 35. The imaging module 3 comprises a battery 43 (shown schematically in FIG. 5C) for supplying electrical power to the at least one imaging sensor 11-n and the light emitting diodes 41. The electrical connector 43 also provides a wired connection for transmission of the image data IMD-n1 from the at least one imaging sensor 11-n to the control unit 5. A cable (not shown) may optionally be provided in the support arm 7 to provide a wired connection for serial or parallel communication between the imaging module 3 and the control unit 5.

[0123] As shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C, a disposable cover 45 is provided to cover the imaging module 3 to prevent contamination. The disposable cover 45 is intended as a single-use item. The disposable cover 45 comprises a flexible material that fits over the imaging module 3. The disposable cover 45 is formed from a transparent material in the present embodiment. The disposable cover 45 is generally cylindrical and has a diameter of approximately 17 mm and a length of approximately 60 mm. The disposable cover 45 in the present embodiment comprises distended areas 37A, 37B that locate over the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2. In a variant, the disposable cover 45 may comprise transparent windows for alignment with the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2. The windows may be moulded from a transparent plastics material. The windows may be fastened to the disposable cover 45, or may be co-moulded with the remainder of the disposable cover 45. The disposable cover 45 comprises first and second straps 47A, 47B arranged to releasably fasten the disposable cover 45 to the support arm 7. The first and second straps 47A, 47B extend from a proximal end of the disposable cover 45 by approximately 10 mm. The first and second straps 47A, 47B cooperate with the first and second anchor points 31A, 31B provided on the support arm 7. The first and second straps 47A, 47B may, for example, comprise studs 49A, 49B locatable in respective first and second sockets forming the anchor points 31A, 31B. The studs 49A, 49B may be a snap-fit in the sockets, for example. Other fastening means may be used for retaining the disposable cover 45 in position. In a variant, the first and second straps 47A, 47B may comprise a releasable adhesive for adhering the disposable cover 45 to the support arm 7. The dual safety functions of the second mounting assembly 27 and the first and second straps 47A, 47B help to ensure the imaging module 3 is secured onto the support arm 7 and is not displaced during the examination. In a variant, the disposable cover 45 could be fastened to the support arm 7, for example to form a pocket into which the imaging unit 10 is inserted.

[0124] As outlined above, the support arm 7 is removably mounted to the handle 9. The handle 9 is disposed at the proximal end of the support arm 7 and is arranged to facilitate use of the throat examination device 1. In the present embodiment, the handle 9 is generally cylindrical in shape, having a diameter of approximately 4 cm and a length of approximately 125 mm to fit comfortably into a gripped hold. The handle 9 has a centreline which is oriented at least substantially parallel to an optical axis of the first lens 12-1. The centreline of the handle 9 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the support arm 7 when the throat examination device 1 is assembled. Thus, the throat examination device 1 is generally L-shaped. The throat examination device 1 may comprise a curved bend between the support arm 7 and the handle 9 to improve ergonomic. This arrangement may facilitate placement of the imaging unit 10 for visualisation of the throat. At least in certain embodiments, an operator may position the imaging unit 10 using one hand.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 4B, the handle 9 comprises an image capture button 51 and two functions buttons 53A, 53B. The image capture button 5 in the present embodiment is generally rectangular and has a length of approximately 4 cm. The image capture button 51 is disposed on an anterior surface of the handle, approximately 1.5 cm below the superior (upper) surface of the handle 9. The image capture button 51 has a trigger-like action for controlling operation of the control unit 5. The image capture button 51 is used to control operation of the imaging module 3. For example, depressing and releasing the image capture button 51 may cause the control unit 5 to capture a photographic image; and depressing and holding the image capture button 51 for an extended period of time (for example greater than 0.5 seconds or 1 second) may cause the control unit 5 to capture a video image. The function buttons 53A, 53B are operable to change the settings of the control unit 5 and/or the imaging module 3. The function buttons 53A, 53B in the illustrated arrangement are circular and have a diameter of approximately 20 mm and are spaced apart from each other by approximately 10 mm.

[0126] The throat examination device 1 is assembled before the examination procedure starts. The sterile support arm 7 is screwed onto the reusable handle 9. The reusable imaging module 3 is then screwed onto the support arm 7. The disposable cover 45 is then placed over the display unit 3 and secured to the support arm 7. This arrangement ensures sterility of all parts of the device coming into contact with the patient (the display unit 3 and the support arm 7) whilst enabling the components with the highest associated cost (such as the handle 9 and the imaging module 3) to be reused. This also enables the invention to be reused rapidly by replacing the support arm 7 and the disposable cover 45 without the need to send the throat examination device 1 for sterilisation.

[0127] The use of the throat examination device 1 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B which shows a simplified diagram of the sagittal view of a throat 100, including the (oral cavity) mouth 101, tongue 102 and uvular 103. all highlighted. By way of comparison, a flexible endoscopic unit 104 is shown in FIG. 8A. The flexible endoscope passes through the nose and into the throat. The throat examination device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 7A. The throat examination device 1 is introduced into the mouth and the imaging module 3 positioned at a back part of the throat 10. The first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 are illustrated in FIG. 7B by arrows extending outwardly from the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2.

[0128] The throat examination device 1 described herein generates a wide-angle image IMG of the mouth and throat of a patient. At least in certain embodiments, the image IMG may extend through 360°. The throat examination device 1 may be used single-handedly with the second hand being used to depress the tongue in order to access the back of the throat. The relative orientation of the support arm 7 and the handle 9 are designed to enable the imaging module 3 to be placed in the back of the throat under direct vision whilst maintain a secure grip on the throat examination device 1. The length of the support arm 7 is designed so the handle 9 will be in a equivalent position to the hand depressing the tongue at the point the imaging module 3 reaches the back of the throat and remains in the users line of sight. This helps with placement of the imaging module 3 and the ease of image capture. The size and positioning of the image capture button 51 on the handle 9 are designed to enable image capture whilst maintaining direct visualisation of the imaging module 3. The light sources 41 provide local illumination within the throat for image capture. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 are disposed at the distal end of the throat examination device 1 and arranged opposite each other to enable image capture around the circumference of the imaging module 3. The width and shape of the imaging module 3 and the support arm 7 are designed so as to avoid the initiation of a gag reflex when the imaging module 3 is placed at the back of the throat.

[0129] The throat examination device 1 can be used to obtain images of the mouth, upper throat, and deep throat. These images can be used in the diagnosis and clinical follow-up of all types of mouth and throat disease. The capture of a video image may facilitate assessment of dynamic movements of the throat, for example involved in the functions of breathing, swallowing and voice. These largely encompass recording movements of the vocal cords, laryngeal structures, tongue, and pharyngeal walls. The throat examination device 1 is suitable for capturing an image of at least a portion of the hypopharynx. Furthermore, the throat examination device 1 may be suitable for capturing an image of the pharynx and/or the oral cavity.

[0130] The digital images that encompass all areas of the throat enable a comprehensive assessment in three dimensions, for example using virtual reality hardware to aid in the diagnosis and follow-up of throat conditions. Whilst modern endoscopy units can acquire three dimensional images, the limited field of view means that these would need to be serially reviewed to achieve the same comprehensive assessment.

[0131] The throat examination device 1 may be used by a medical practitioner. However, at least in certain embodiments, the throat examination device 1 could be used by a patient to perform self-examination of their own throat. This is especially true in the upper part of the throat where the tonsils sit as the patient only need to place the camera into the mouth and not all the way to the back of the throat. The image data IMD-n captured by the imaging module 3 may be transmitted over a network, such as the internet, for review by a trained specialist. This will aid telemedicine in the remote diagnosis and follow-up of throat disorders in the community such as tonsillitis. There is also potential to use artificial intelligence to perform automated analysis of the image.

[0132] The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 may comprise an overlapping field of view. The images captured by the imaging sensors may comprise an overlapping image region. An electronic processor may be provided to process the captured images to form a composite image. The processing of the images may comprise reducing or removing the overlapping image region. The composite image may be formed which at least partially removes the overlapping image region. The image generated by the imaging unit may be a composite image formed by combining subsidiary images acquired by two or more lenses.

[0133] A further embodiment of the throat examination device 1 is shown in FIG. 9. The throat examination device 1 in this embodiment is a modification of the arrangement shown in FIG. 5A. Like reference numerals are used for like features.

[0134] The imaging module 3 in the present embodiment is a modified version of the unit shown in FIG. 5A. The imaging module 3 comprises first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 associated with first and second image sensors respectively. The first and second image sensors are configured to capture first and second images which comprise an overlapping image region. The first lens 12-1 is a wide-angle lens having a first field of view FOV1. The first field of view FOV1 has a first (subsidiary) transverse angle of view TAOV1 in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The second lens 12-2 is a wide-angle lens having a second field of view FOV2. The second field of view FOV2 has a second (subsidiary) transverse angle of view TAOV2 in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The first and second transverse angles of view TAOV1, TAOV2 are subsidiary angles in this arrangement which cumulatively define the transverse angle of view of the imaging unit 10 in the transverse plane.

[0135] The first transverse angle of view TAOV1 is greater than 180°; and the second transverse angle of view TAOV2 is greater than 180°. In the present embodiment, the first transverse angle of view TAOV1 is approximately 180°; and the second transverse angle of view TAOV2 is approximately 180°. The first and second lens 12-1 are arranged such that the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 partially overlap each other. The overlapping portion of each of the first and second images may be used to align the first and second images. For example, the image data IMD-1, IMD-2 may be processed to identify image elements or features which are common to both the first and second images. The image IMG may be formed by processing the image data IMD-1, IMD-2 associated with the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 at least partially to remove the overlapping image region.

[0136] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 9 shows an overlap of the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 in a transverse plane. The first and second transverse angles of view TAOV1, TAOV2 partially overlap with each other. Alternatively, or in addition, there may be an overlap in the first and second longitudinal angles of view LAOV1, LAOV2. The image IMG ma ybe formed by processing the image data IMD-1, IMD-2 associated with the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 at least partially to remove the overlapping image region.

[0137] A further embodiment of the throat examination device 1 is shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C. The throat examination device 1 in this embodiment is a modification of the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. Like reference numerals are used for like features.

[0138] The imaging module 3 in the present embodiment is a modified version of the unit shown in FIG. 5A. The imaging module 3 in the present embodiment is at least substantially spherical. The imaging module 3 comprises first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 associated with the first and second imaging sensors 11-1, 11-2. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 each have a part-spherical field of view FOV1, FOV2. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 each comprise or consist of a wide-angle lens in the form of a fish-eye lens. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 are oriented in opposite directions. As shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C, the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 collectively have an at least substantially spherical profile. The first lens 12-1 is disposed on a superior (upper) side of the imaging module 3; and the second lens 12-2 is disposed on an inferior (lower) side of the imaging module 3. The first lens 12-1 has a first optical axis Y1; and the second lens 12-2 has a second optical axis Y2. The first and second optical axes Y1, Y2 are aligned with each other and extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0139] The first lens 12-1 is a wide-angle lens having a first field of view FOV1. As shown in FIG. 10C, the first field of view FOV1 has a first (subsidiary) transverse angle of view TAOV1 in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The first field of view FOV1 has a first longitudinal angle of view LAOV1 in a plane extending along the longitudinal axis X. The first transverse angle of view TAOV1 defines an angular extent of the first field of view FOV1 in a circumferential direction around an exterior of the imaging module 3. The first longitudinal angle of view LAOV1 defines an angular extent of the first field of view FOV1 in a longitudinal direction.

[0140] The second lens 12-2 is a wide-angle lens having a second field of view FOV2. As shown in FIG. 5A, the second field of view FOV2 has a second (subsidiary) transverse angle of view TAOV2 in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The second field of view FOV2 has a second longitudinal angle of view LAOV2 in a plane extending along the longitudinal axis X. The second transverse angle of view TAOV2 defines an angular extent of the second field of view FOV2 in a circumferential direction around an exterior of the imaging module 3. The second longitudinal angle of view LAOV2 defines an angular extent of the second field of view FOV2 in a longitudinal direction.

[0141] The first and second transverse angles of view TAOV1, TAOV2 are subsidiary angles in this arrangement which cumulatively define the transverse angle of view of the imaging unit 10 in the transverse plane. The first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 are arranged to provide a combined transverse angle of view AOV1 of approximately 360° about the longitudinal axis X.

[0142] In the present embodiment, the first transverse angle of view TAOV1 is greater than or equal to 180°; and the second transverse angle of view TAOV2 is greater than or equal to 180°. The first and second lens 12-1 are arranged such that the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 do not overlap each other. Alternatively, the first and second lens 12-1 may be arranged such that the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 partially overlap each other.

[0143] The first longitudinal angle of view LAOV1 may be in the range 135° to 180°; and the second longitudinal angle of view LAOV2 may be in the range 135° to 180°. In a variant, the first and second longitudinal angles of view LAOV1, LAOV2 may be greater than 180°. The first and second lens 12-1 in this arrangement have first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 which partially overlap each other.

[0144] The image IMG is a composite image composed of at least a portion of each of the images within the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 of the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2. At least in certain embodiments, the image IMG has an angular extent of approximately 360° about the longitudinal axis X. Thus, the image IMG provides a substantially continuous (i.e. uninterrupted) representation of the region extending around the longitudinal axis X. In normal use, the image IMG may include a portion of the oral cavity and/or a portion of the patient’s throat. At least a portion of each of the images within the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2 may be stitched together to form the image IMG. The images may be cropped or otherwise transformed to form the image IMG.

[0145] In certain arrangements the fields of view FOV1, FOV2 of the first and second lens 12-1, 12-2 may partially overlap each other (in a longitudinal direction and/or a transverse direction). A composite image may be formed by processing the images associated with the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 to remove the overlapping image region. A predefined algorithm may be defined to perform the image processing, for example to crop or otherwise transform a predefined region of each image. Alternatively, or in addition, the image processing may be performed dynamically. The overlapping portion of each of the first and second images may be used to align the first and second images, for example by identifying image elements which are common to both the first and second images.

[0146] In a variant, the first lens 12-1 may be disposed on a distal end of the imaging module 3; and the second lens 12-2 may be disposed on a proximal end of the imaging module 3. The first and second optical axes Y1, Y2 may be at least substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis X. In a further variant, the first and second optical axes Y1, Y2 may be angularly and/or spatially offset from each other. The second lens 12-2 could optionally be omitted. For example, the imaging module 3 may consist of one lens 12-1 disposed in a distal location. The lens 12-1 may be a wide-angle lens having an optical axis Y1 substantially aligned with or parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0147] It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made to the embodiment(s) described herein without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0148] The imaging unit 10 may be configured to determine a distance from the longitudinal axis X to an interior surface of the oral cavity and/or throat of the patient. The measured distance data may be used to generate a three-dimensional model. The image IMG captured by the imaging unit 10 may be mapped onto the model. Alternatively, or in addition, the model may be used to determine a position and/or an orientation of the imaging unit 10 within the oral cavity 3. The determined position and/or orientation of the imaging unit 10 may be used to generated feedback to ensure appropriate positioning of the throat examination device 1.

[0149] The imaging unit 10 has been described herein as having first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 arranged to form a substantially continuous field of view FOV1. In a variant, the fields of view of the first and second lenses 12-1, 12-2 may be angularly separated from each other (in a transverse plane). For example, an angular separation of 45° or 90° may be present on each side. This arrangement may be appropriate if the lenses 12-1, 12-2 have a transverse angle of view which is less than 180°, for example.

TABLE-US-00001 Reference Numerals 1 Throat examination device 3 Imaging module 5 Control unit 7 Support arm 9 Handle 10 Imaging unit 11-n Imaging sensor 12-n Lens 13 Electronic processor 15 Memory device 17 Electrical input 19 Electrical output 21 Casing (support arm) 23 First mounting assembly 25A First male connector 25B First female connector 27 Second mounting assembly 29A Second male connector 29B Second female connector 31A First anchor 31B Second anchor 35 Housing 37A First window 37B Second window 39A First lens aperture 39B Second lens aperture 41 Light source 43 Electrical connector 45 Disposable cover 47A First strap 47B Second strap 49A First stud 49B Second stud 51 Image capture button 53A, 53B Function button 100 Throat 101 Oral cavity (mouth) 102 Tongue 103 Uvular 104 Flexible endoscope 105 Rigid endoscope IMG Image IMD-n Image data IMD-C Composite image data FOV1 First field of view LAOV1 First longitudinal angle of view TAOV1 First (subsidiary) transverse angle of view FOV2 Second field of view LAOV2 Second longitudinal angle of view TAOV2 Second (subsidiary) transverse angle of view