Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(Section 10 and Rule 13)

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
CUSTOMIZED ENDOSCOPE CHANNEL
2. APPLICANT:
Meril Corporation (I) Private Limited, an Indian company of the address Survey No. 135/139, Muktanand Marg, Bilakhia House, Pardi, Vapi, Valsad-396191 Gujarat, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:

 
FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure relates to the field of medical devices. More particularly, the present disclosure pertains to an endoscope with one or more flexible working channels.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[002] Endoscopic procedures play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of various gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. A gastroscope, a specific type of endoscope, is widely used for examining the upper digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The gastroscope consists of a flexible tube equipped with light and a camera, allowing a physician to visualize internal structures and/or perform a minimally invasive intervention.
[003] Conventional gastroscopes are designed with limited, say, two to three working channels. Via a working channel, a surgical instrument such as a suction tool, a camera or an irrigation tool can be inserted in a body vasculature. These limited channels often pose significant challenges during complex endoscopic procedures which require simultaneous suction, irrigation, therapeutic, etc. intervention. The lack of additional working channels forces physicians to frequently exchange instruments, leading to immense blood loss, increased procedural time, and complexity.
[004] Moreover, conventional gastroscope working channels have fixed diameters that do not allow for dynamic expansion or reconfiguration based on procedural needs. This rigidity limits the ability to perform advanced interventions efficiently. Frequent instrument exchanges can also increase the risk of tissue trauma, patient discomfort, and procedural inefficiencies. In critical cases, the need for multiple instrument switches or the use of multiple endoscopes can further complicate the procedure and prolong surgery time.
[005] Thus, there arises a need for an endoscope that overcome the problems associated with conventional endoscopes.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[006] The present invention relates to an endoscope includes a handle, a tube assembly, and an insertion tube. The handle includes an instrument opening and a fluid media opening. The tube assembly includes at least one first port provided with an instrument tube and at least one second port provided with a plurality of inflation tubes, the first port coupled to the instrument opening and the second port coupled to the fluid media opening. The insertion tube is coupled to a distal end of the handle. The insertion tube includes a first tube, a second tube, a plurality of flexible working channels and a plurality of inflatable elements. The second tube is concentrically positioned within the first tube towards the distal end, forming an annular space between the first tube and the second tube. The plurality of flexible working channels is disposed within the annular space. Each of the flexible working channel coupled to a corresponding tube of the tube assembly and configured to expand and collapse. The plurality of inflatable elements is disposed within the annular space. Each of the inflatable element is coupled to a corresponding tube of the tube assembly and is configurable between an inflated state and a deflated state. Wherein the first tube, the flexible working channels and the inflatable elements are configured to expand or collapse to provide a passage to accommodate an instrument.
[007] The foregoing features and other features as well as the advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[008] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the apportioned drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentality disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale.
[009] Fig. 1A depicts a perspective view of an endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0010] Fig. 1B depicts an exploded view of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0011] Fig. 2 depicts a front view of a handle 110 of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0012] Fig. 3A depicts a perspective view of an insertion tube 120 of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] Fig. 3B depicts a detailed view of a distal end of the insertion tube 120, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0014] Fig. 4A depicts a perspective view of a first tube 302 of the insertion tube 120, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Fig. 4B depicts a perspective view of a first mesh 404 of the first tube 302, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] Fig. 5 depicts a perspective view of a second tube 304, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0017] Fig. 6A depicts a perspective view of a tube assembly 170 of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] Fig. 6B depicts an exploded view of a tube assembly 170 of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] Fig. 7 depicts the coupling of the tube assembly 170 with flexible working channels 306 and inflatable elements 308, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] Fig. 8A depicts a cross-sectional view of the insertion tube 120 of the endoscope 100 in a deflated state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] Fig. 8B depicts a perspective view of the insertion tube 120 of the endoscope 100 in an inflated state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING INVENTION
[0022] Prior to describing the invention in detail, definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document will be defined: the terms "include" and "comprise", as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "coupled with" and "associated therewith", as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have a property of, or the like. Definitions of certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such definitions apply in many, if not most, instances to prior as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.
[0023] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0024] Although the operations of exemplary embodiments of the disclosed method may be described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments can encompass an order of operations other than the particular, sequential order disclosed. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Further, descriptions and disclosures provided in association with one particular embodiment are not limited to that embodiment, and may be applied to any embodiment disclosed herein. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways in which the disclosed system, method, and apparatus can be used in combination with other systems, methods, and apparatuses.
[0025] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments. These features and advantages of the embodiments will become more fully apparent from the following description and apportioned claims, or may be learned by the practice of embodiments as set forth hereinafter.
[0026] The present disclosure relates to an endoscope configured for examining, diagnosing and/or operating a body vasculature of a patient using multiple instruments simultaneously. The instruments include without limitation a camera, a light source, a working channel, a water jet channel, and the like. The endoscope includes a flexible insertion tube having a first tube and a second tube. In an embodiment, the second tube is concentrically positioned within the first tube. This arrangement forms an annular space between the first and second tubes due to their diameter difference. Within the annular space, the endoscope houses one or more flexible working channels and at least two inflatable elements. The provision of flexible working channels in addition to conventional channels available in the second tube, enhances the utility of the endoscope. Due to the provision of one or more flexible working channels, friction during endoscope/instrument exchanges is minimized. Further, a patient experiences minimal tissue trauma and blood loss, resulting in enhanced procedural efficiency and a smoother, less invasive experience.
[0027] The inflatable elements are configured to inflate or deflate the first tube. Further, the one or more flexible working channels are configured to expand or collapse in response to inflation or deflation, respectively, of the first tube. This dynamic expansion of the one or more flexible working channels helps in making the endoscope compact for insertion. Once inserted in a body vasculature, the one or more flexible working channels are configured to expand. In the expanded state, the one or more flexible working channels are configured to provide a passage for introduction of additional instruments in the body vasculature besides the ones introduced via the second tube.
[0028] Now referring to figures, Fig. 1A depicts a perspective view and Fig. 1B depicts an exploded view of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The endoscope 100 is designed for various endoscopic procedures, including but not limited to gastroscopy, angioscopy, cystoscopy, bronchoscopy, duodenoscope, choledocosopy (upper GI endoscopy & lower GI endoscopy), or the like. In an embodiment, the present disclosure describes the endoscope 100 in the context of gastroscopy. It should be understood that the endoscope 100 can also be used for other types of endoscopic procedures. The endoscope 100 is configured to provide visualization, diagnosis, and treatment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
[0029] In an embodiment, the endoscope 100 has a proximal end 100a and a distal end 100b. The endoscope 100 includes a handle 110, an insertion tube 120, and a tube assembly 170. The handle 110 is provided at the proximal end 100a of the endoscope 100. Additionally, the handle 110 includes a cable 190 coupled with a light source to be disposed in the distal end 100b of the endoscope 100. The cable 190 supplies power to the light source, which illuminates one or more organs, etc. during a procedure.
[0030] The insertion tube 120 is coupled to a distal end 110b the handle 110. The other end of the insertion tube 120 is free and meant to be inserted in a body vasculature. The length of the insertion tube 120 defines the length of the endoscope 100. The insertion tube 120 houses the tube assembly 170 as described below.
[0031] Fig. 2 depicts a side view of the handle 110 of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The handle 110 includes a body with an ergonomic shape, which enables a medical practitioner to grip and operate the endoscope 100, comfortably. The handle 110 has a proximal end 110a and a distal end 110b. The handle 110 includes a knob 202 coupled at one side of the body and a plurality of openings on the body. In an embodiment, the plurality of openings includes but is not limited to, an instrument opening 204 and a fluid media opening 206. In an embodiment, the distal end 110b of the handle 110 is flexible to expand and contract to accommodate one or more additional instruments to be inserted in the endoscope 100.
[0032] The dimensions of the handle 110 may be chosen based on procedural requirements. In an embodiment, the length of the handle 110 may range between 100 mm and 130 mm, and the width of the handle 110 may range between 35 mm and 50 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the length and the width of the handle 110 are 115mm and 40 mm, respectively. The handle 110 may be made of a biocompatible material including, without limitation, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), PEEK (Polyether ether ketone), PU (Polyurethane), etc. In an exemplary implementation, the handle 110 is made of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene).
[0033] The knob 202 is positioned towards the proximal end 110a of the handle 110. The knob 202 controls the depth and direction of insertion of one or more instruments such as the camera, the light source, and the like. In an embodiment, the knob 202 of the handle 110 has an ergonomic shape, which enables a medical practitioner to grip and regulate the movement of one or more instruments in the endoscope 100, comfortably.
[0034] In an embodiment, the instrument opening 204 and the fluid media opening 206 are provided in the body of the handle 110. The instrument opening 204 provides a pathway within the handle 110 that allows various surgical tools or instruments to be introduced into the endoscope 100 through the corresponding tube. The fluid media opening 206 is coupled with an inflation system that is configured to inject fluid or air to inflate the insertion tube 120.
[0035] Fig. 3A depicts a perspective view of the insertion tube 120 and Fig. 3B depicts a detailed view of a distal end of the insertion tube 120, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The insertion tube 120 is configured to be inserted in the body vasculature. The insertion tube 120 is designed to be flexible and maneuverable, allowing for smooth navigation through the patient's anatomy while minimizing discomfort.
[0036] The insertion tube 120 includes a first tube 302 and a second tube 304. The first tube 302 and the second tube 304 extend along the length of the insertion tube 120. In an embodiment, the second tube 304 is concentrically positioned within the first tube 302. The diameter of the second tube 304 is less than the diameter of the first tube 302. The difference between the diameter of the second tube 304 and the first tube 302 forms an annular space 310. In an embodiment, the width of the annular space may be selected depending upon the number of working channels needed.
[0037] In the annular space 310, a plurality of flexible working channels 306 and a plurality of inflatable elements 308 are disposed. In an embodiment, two flexible working channels 306 and four inflatable elements 308 are provided. The inflatable elements 308 and the flexible working channels 306 extend at least partially along the length of the insertion tube 120. In an embodiment, for inflating one flexible working channel 306, at least two inflatable elements 308 are provided.
[0038] In an embodiment, the plurality of flexible working channels 306 are glued on an outer surface of the second tube 304 and an inner surface of the first tube 302. In an embodiment, the flexible working channels 306 remain in the collapsed state when uninitiated or in undeployed state (that, when not in use). This may be due to an inward force exerted by the first tube 302 on the flexible working channels 306.
[0039] In an embodiment, each flexible working channel 306 includes a cover and a mesh (described in Fig. 4A). The details of the cover and mesh of a flexible working channel 306 are similar to the details of the cover and mesh of the first tube 302 explained later. The dimensions of the flexible working channel 306 may be chosen based on procedural requirements. The length of the flexible working channel 306 may range between 1100 mm and 1030mm, and the maximum expanded diameter of the flexible working channel 306 may range between 12 mm and 13 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the length of the flexible working channel 306 and the maximum expanded diameter of the flexible working channel 306 are 1050mm, and 12.5mm, respectively.
[0040] The plurality of inflatable elements 308 are coupled to the outer surface of the second tube 304 and the inner surface of the first tube 302. In an embodiment, the plurality of inflatable elements 308 are glued on the outer surface of the second tube 304 and the inner surface of the first tube 302. Each inflatable element 308 has a hollow tubular structure that is closed at its distal end. The inflatable element 308 is configurable to be in one of, an inflated state or a deflated state. The inflatable element 308 includes a lumen configured to receive an inflation fluid. In an embodiment, the inflatable element 308 is configured to be in the inflated state in response to the injection of an inflation media into the lumen of the inflatable element 308. In an embodiment, the inflation media may be gaseous such as air, O2, N2, Ar2, CO2, etc., or a liquid inflation medium such as sterile water, a glycerin solution, etc.
[0041] In the inflated state, the first tube 302, the flexible working channels 306 and the inflatable elements 308 are configured to expand. The inflatable element 308 applies a radially outward force on the inner surface of the first tube 302. As a result, the first tube 302 expands. This expansion, in turn, increases the annular space 310, allowing the one or more flexible working channels 306 to expand accordingly. Due to expansion of the one or more flexible working channels, each channel provides a passage to accommodate additional instruments required for diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures. This expansion enhances the versatility of the endoscopic instrument, allowing for greater procedural flexibility.
[0042] Further, the inflatable element 308 is configured to be in the deflated state in response to the withdrawal of the inflation fluid from the lumen of the inflatable element 308. In this state, the first tube 302, the flexible working channels 306 and the inflatable elements 308 of the insertion tube 120 collapses, restoring its original size and ensuring optimal maneuverability within the patient’s anatomy. The dimensions of the inflatable element 308 may be chosen based on procedural requirements.
[0043] The inflatable element 308 may be made of a biocompatible material such as without limitation, silicone, nylon, polyamide, polyurethane, etc. In an embodiment, the inflatable element 308 is made of medical-grade silicone, which is flexible, and durable, ensuring patient safety during use. The length of the inflatable element 308 ranges between 1030mm and 1100 mm, and the diameter of the inflatable element 308 may range between 2 mm and 4 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the length of the inflatable element 308 and the diameter of the inflatable element 308 are 1050 mm and 3 mm respectively.
[0044] Exemplary embodiments of the first tube and the second tube of the insertion tube 120 will now be described.
[0045] Fig. 4A depicts a perspective view of a distal portion of the first tube 302 of the insertion tube 120, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first tube 302 is configured to expand and collapse. In an embodiment, the first tube 302 remains collapsed until an external force is applied on its inner surface, causing the first tube 302 to expand. In an embodiment, the first tube 302 extends along the length of the insertion tube 120.
[0046] The first tube 302 includes a first cover 402 and a first mesh 404. The first cover 402 includes an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface overlaps at least partially with an outer surface of the first mesh 404. The outer surface of the first cover 402 is smooth to facilitate easy insertion into a body vasculature while minimizing the risk of tissue damage. The first cover 402 is made of a stretchable material which allows the first tube 302 to expand and collapse. The first cover 402 may be made of biocompatible, stretchable material, such as silicone, polyurethane, or an elastomeric polymer. In an embodiment, the first cover 402 is made of TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane).
[0047] The dimensions of the first tube 302 may be chosen based on procedural requirements. In an embodiment, the length of the first tube 302 may range between 1100 mm and 1030 mm, and the diameter of the first tube 302 may range between 3 mm and 7 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the length of the first tube 302 and the diameter of the first tube 302 are 1050mm and 7 mm, respectively.
[0048] Fig. 4B depicts a perspective view of the first mesh 404 of the first tube 302, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first mesh 404 is configured to expand and collapse. The first mesh 404 includes a plurality of struts 406 that are configured to provide structural support to the first tube 302. The plurality of struts 406 are configured to expand and collapse dynamically in response to a radial force applied by the plurality of inflatable elements 308. This expansion of the plurality of struts 406 facilitates the expansion of the insertion tube 120 and allows the endoscope 100 to adapt to a procedural requirement efficiently.
[0049] In an embodiment, the first mesh 404 includes a lumen 408 configured to accommodate the plurality of inflatable elements 308, the plurality of flexible working channels 306, and the second tube 304 as depicted in Fig. 3B.
[0050] The first mesh 404 may be made of a biocompatible polymer or metal, such as nitinol (a nickel-titanium alloy), stainless steel, or high-strength polymeric fibres like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyether ether ketone (PEEK). In an embodiment, the first mesh 404 is made of nitinol (a nickel-titanium alloy).
[0051] Fig. 5 depicts a perspective view of the second tube 304 of the insertion tube 120, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the second tube 304 is a conventional tube of the endoscope used for endoscopy In an exemplary embodiment, the endoscope includes a plurality of channels for insertion of various medical tools during endoscopy. The channels include an instrument channel 502, an imaging channels 504, a water channel 506, and a lighting channel 508.The instrument channel 502 facilitates the introduction of an instrument in the body vasculature. The imaging channels 504 incorporate cameras to provide real-time visualization of the body’s vasculature, enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. The water channel 506 enables irrigation and suction at the operation site, ensuring a clear field of view and assisting in procedural efficiency. The lighting channel 508 houses a Xenon/LED via a light guide bundle, to illuminate the body’s internal structures, improving visibility for the operator. The configuration of the second tube 304 may be adapted based on procedural requirements or in alignment with conventionally available endoscopes, allowing flexibility in design and functionality.
[0052] Fig. 6A depicts a perspective view and Fig. 6B depicts an exploded view of the tube assembly 170 of the endoscope 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The tube assembly 170 is housed within the handle 110 and includes, an instrument tube 172 and a fluid tube 174. The instrument tube 172 includes a first port 176 positioned within the instrument opening 204 of the handle 110. The instrument tube 172 provides a passage for insertion of one or more ancillary instruments. The instrument tube 172 may be made of a biocompatible material including, without limitation, silicone, nylone, PEBAX etc. In an exemplary implementation, the instrument tube 172 is made of PEBAX. The dimensions of the instrument tube 172 may be chosen based on procedural requirements. The length of the instrument tube 172 may range between 1100 mm and 1030 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the length of the instrument tube 172 is 1050 mm.
[0053] The fluid tube 174 of the tube assembly 170 includes a connecting member 174a, a second port 178, a plurality of outlet ports 180 and a plurality of inflation tubes 182. The second port 178 is positioned within the fluid media opening 206 of the handle 110. The second port 178 is coupled to a plurality of inflation tubes 182. The second port 178 is coupled to an inflation system to facilitate inflation media in the inflation tubes 182. The connecting member 174a has a plurality of arms. Each arm is configured to couple the respective inflation tube 182 to the second port 178 via the fluid tube 174. The outlet ports 180 are provided at the distal end 110b of the handle 110 and coupled to the plurality of inflation tubes 182 at a proximal end. The number of outlet ports 180 depends upon the number of inflation tubes 182 required for inflating the annular space 310. In the depicted embodiment, the fluid tube 174 is coupled to four inflation tubes 182. Each inflation tube 182 includes an outlet port 180 at its distal end 110b of the handle 110. The outlet port 180 is in turn coupled to the respective inflatable element 308 for inflating or deflating the same.
[0054] The fluid tube 174, the connecting member 174a and the plurality of inflation tubes 182 are configured to facilitate inflation media inflow and outflow. The plurality of inflation tubes 182 may be made of a biocompatible material including, without limitation, silicone, PVC (polyvinay Chloride), fluropolymers, PEBAX etc. In an exemplary implementation, the inflation tubes 182 is made of silicon. The dimensions of the inflation tubes 182 may be chosen based on procedural requirements. The length of the inflation tubes 182 may range between 1100 mm and 1030 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the length of the fluid tube 174 is 1050 mm.
[0055] The configuration of the tube assembly 170 allows flexibility based on the procedural requirements of the endoscope 100. The number of instrument tubes 172 and their corresponding instrument openings 204 may vary depending on the number of flexible working channels 306 integrated into the endoscope 100. Similarly, the number of inflation tubes 182 may vary depending on the number of inflatable elements 308, provides adaptability for different medical procedures.
[0056] Fig. 7 depicts the coupling of the tube assembly 170 with the respective flexible working channels 306 and inflatable elements 308, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The instrument tube 172 of the tube assembly 170 extends towards the distal end 110b of the handle 110 and is configured to couple to the corresponding flexible working channel 306. The inflation tubes 182 of the tube assembly 170 extend towards the distal end 110b of the handle 110 and are coupled to the respective inflatable elements 308. The structural composition of these elements ensures durability, flexibility, and compatibility with medical environments.
[0057] Figs. 6 and 7 collectively illustrate the structural and functional aspects of the tube assembly 170 within the endoscope 100. The design optimizes procedural efficiency by integrating dedicated channels for instrument insertion and fluid management. The modular nature of the assembly allows for variations in the number of tubes based on procedural needs, ensuring optimal performance and customization for specific medical applications.
[0058] Fig. 8A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the insertion tube 120 of the endoscope 100 in a deflated state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the deflated state, the inflatable elements 308 remain deflated, maintaining a compact form. As a result, the first tube 302 remains collapsed along with the flexible working channels 306, ensuring the insertion tube 120 occupies minimal space. This deflated state facilitates smooth insertion and navigation of the endoscope 100 within a patient’s lumen while minimizing potential trauma to surrounding tissues. Additionally, in this state, the flexible working channel 306 does not provide a passage for any instruments to be inserted.
[0059] Fig. 8B illustrates a perspective view of the distal end of the insertion tube 120 of the endoscope 100 in the inflated state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this state, the inflatable elements 308 are expanded. Expansion is achieved upon receiving inflation fluid, which exerts pressure on the first tube 302, causing it to expand as well. Consequently, the annular space 310 between the first tube 302 and the second tube 304 increases, allowing the flexible working channels 306 to expand. The expanded flexible working channels 306 thereafter are configured to accommodate additional surgical instruments 902 or specialized diagnostic tools required during procedures. Furthermore, the inflation process impacts the structural mesh 314 of the first tube 302, enabling the insertion tube 120 to transition from a crimped to an expanded configuration. This design ensures that the endoscope 100 remains adaptable for various medical interventions, optimizing both patient comfort and procedural efficiency.
[0060] The proposed endoscope offers significant advantages over conventional models, improving procedural efficiency, patient safety, and workflow. The endoscope has a flexible insertion tube that is configured to expand and collapse as needed, incorporating multiple working channels that allow simultaneous additional instrument insertion without introducing another device in the body vasculature. This minimizes patient discomfort and tissue trauma, ensuring safer and more effective endoscopic procedures. The structural flexibility and self-retracting properties of the endoscope eliminate manual adjustments, lowering the risk of complications. Additionally, the ergonomic design of the endoscope enhances control and reduces practitioner fatigue, while high-quality imaging and lighting ensure superior visualization for precise diagnosis and treatment. Made from durable, biocompatible materials, it ensures longevity and patient safety. By addressing challenges like limited working channel availability and frequent instrument exchanges, this endoscope streamlines procedures and enhances surgical outcomes, making it a superior alternative to conventional gastroscopic devices.
[0061] The scope of the invention is only limited by the appended patent claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings of the present invention is/are used. , Claims:WE CLAIM
1. An endoscope (100) comprising:
a. a handle (110) including an instrument opening (204) and a fluid media opening (206);
b. a tube assembly (170) housed within the handle (110), the tube assembly (170) including an instrument tube (172) with at least one first port (176) coupled to the instrument opening (204), and at least one second port (178) coupled to a plurality of inflation tubes (182), and the second port (178) coupled to the fluid media opening (206); and
c. an insertion tube (120) coupled to a distal end (110b) of the handle (110), the insertion tube (120) comprising;
i. a first tube (302);
ii. a second tube (304) concentrically positioned within the first tube (302), forming an annular space (310) between the first tube (302) and the second tube (304);
iii. a plurality of flexible working channels (306) disposed within the annular space (310), each flexible working channel (306) coupled to a corresponding instrument tube (172); and
iv. a plurality of inflatable elements (308) disposed within the annular space (310), each inflatable element (308) coupled to a corresponding inflation tube (182);
wherein the first tube (302), the flexible working channels (306) and the inflatable elements (308) are configured to expand or collapse to provide a passage to accommodate an instrument.
2. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second port (178) is coupled to an inflation system to facilitate inflation media in the inflation tubes (182).
3. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first tube (302) includes:
a. a first cover (402); and
b. a first mesh (404) having a plurality of struts (406) configured to dynamically expand and collapse in response to a radial force applied by the plurality of inflatable elements (308).
4. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first cover (402) is made of a stretchable and biocompatible material.
5. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least two inflatable elements (308) are configured to expand a flexible working channel (306).
6. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inflatable elements (308) are made of a biocompatible material including one of silicone, nylon, polyamide, and polyurethane.
7. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each flexible working channel (306) includes a cover and a mesh.
8. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 7 wherein, the cover is made of a stretchable, biocompatible material.
9. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 7 wherein, the mesh includes a plurality of struts configured to expand and collapse in response to the expansion of the first tube (302).
10. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein, each inflatable element (308) is coupled to the outer surface of the second tube (304) and the inner surface of the first tube (302) .
11. The endoscope (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein, the handle (110) comprises an ergonomically shaped knob (202) enabling a medical practitioner to grip and regulate movement of one or more instruments within the endoscope (100).