초록 ▼

Methods and apparatus for providing suction and/or irrigation in rigid endoscopes used for, e.g., bronchoscopy, esphagoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy are described. The described methods and apparatus permit a user of the endoscope to maintain visual contact with a target area being viewed though the endo

Methods and apparatus for providing suction and/or irrigation in rigid endoscopes used for, e.g., bronchoscopy, esphagoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy are described. The described methods and apparatus permit a user of the endoscope to maintain visual contact with a target area being viewed though the endoscope during suction/irrigation procedures. In accordance with the present invention, the antifog port of a known rigid endoscope assembly is coupled to a suction/irrigation apparatus as opposed to being plugged or coupled to an antifog fluid source. The antifog port is thereby converted into a suction/irrigation port. By providing suction/irrigation via the antifog port, the need to remove the telescope to perform suction and/or the need to use an instrument incorporating a suction channel is eliminated. The suction/irrigation apparatus of the present invention includes an extension tube, a syringe, a valve, e.g., a two way stop cock, and a connecting tube. The stop cock is used to selectively couple either the source of the irrigation fluids, e.g., the syringe, or a suction device to the antifog port of the rigid endoscope. The syringe includes calibration marks and is filled with an irrigation fluid, e.g., saline fluid. The extension tube is used to position the two way stop cock and syringe a sufficient distance away from the rigid endoscope so that it can be operated by an assistant without interfering with the person using the endoscope.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An endoscopic system, comprising:a rigid endoscope including:i. a tubular sheath instrument channel;ii. an antifog tube including a port, the antifog tube being inserted into the tubular sheath instrument channel; andiii. a straight telescope inserted into the antifog tub

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An endoscopic system, comprising:a rigid endoscope including:i. a tubular sheath instrument channel;ii. an antifog tube including a port, the antifog tube being inserted into the tubular sheath instrument channel; andiii. a straight telescope inserted into the antifog tube;a suction/irrigation apparatus including:i. an extension tube having a first end coupled to the port of the antifog tube;ii. a valve having a first, second and third port for selectively coupling one of the second and third ports to the first port, the first port being coupled to a second end of the extension tube;iii. a connecting tube coupled to the second port of the valve and adapted for coupling the second port to a suction device; andiv. a syringe coupled to the third port of the valve for providing irrigation fluid.