John M. Levey - Westborough MA, US Jennifer Dziczek - Boylston MA, US Frank V. Patterson - Exeter NH, US
International Classification:
A61B 1/01 A61M 25/00
US Classification:
600114, 604265
Abstract:
A non-invasive device for lubricating and facilitating the insertion and removal of an endoscope into a body cavity. In one embodiment, the device consists of an annular outer tube having an inner diameter sized to permit sliding of an endoscope there through. The outer surface of the outer tube may be suitably textured for improved gripping. A reservoir is positioned on the outer tube and may be compressed to discharge lubricating fluid on a passing endoscope. The tube surface is textured to enhance control and ergonomics and is flexible to allow manipulation, removal and placement. A flange may be positioned at the proximal end of the tube to provide a barrier to movement of excess lubricant onto the central portion of the tube. The invention also comprises the use of a reservoir for lubricants to be applied to the endoscope as it passes through the device and the enhanced control by way of a threaded internal pattern that engages an endoscope outer surface.
John M. Levey - Westborough MA, US Jennifer Dziczek - Boylston MA, US
International Classification:
A61B 1/04
US Classification:
600114
Abstract:
A non-invasive device for lubricating and facilitating the insertion and removal of an endoscope into a body cavity. In one embodiment, the device consists of an annular outer tube having an inner diameter sized to permit sliding of an endoscope therethrough. The outer surface of the outer tube may be suitably textured for improved gripping. A foam annular tube is positioned within the outer tube, with an inner diameter slightly less than the normal outer diameter of the endoscope so that passage of the endoscope compresses the foam as it is passed through. The foam tube may be saturated with a lubricant which is forced from the foam to coat the endoscope as it moves through. Flanges positioned respectively at the distal and proximal ends of the tube provide a barrier to movement of excess lubricant onto the central portion of the tube. The invention also comprises the use of a reservoir for lubricants to be applied to the endoscope as it passes through the device.