Patent ID: 7837615
Filing Date: 2010-11-23
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for advancing a first diagnostic or therapeutic instrument into a hollow body organ of unsupported anatomy, the apparatus comprising: a handle; an overtube having a proximal end and a distal end, with the proximal end being coupled to the handle, the overtube having a lumen to permit passage of a first diagnostic or therapeutic instrument; a liner for the lumen of the overtube, the liner having a proximal end and a distal end and having a length that is substantially equal to or greater than a length of the overtube; and a loading device for disposing the liner within the lumen of the overtube, the loading device comprising an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end with the distal end of the loading device being reversibly coupled to the proximal end of the liner, the elongate member having a size and shape to allow the elongate member to be inserted proximal end first into the lumen at the distal end of the overtube, advanced through the lumen, and exit the lumen at the proximal end of the overtube such that the distal end of the elongate member and the proximal end of the liner exit the lumen at the proximal end of the overtube.