Patent ID: 6869392
Filing Date: 2005-03-22
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A disposable implement for insertion into an endoscope and comprising at least one zone matched to a shape of the endoscope, said implement being initially inserted into the endoscope with a first force prior to a first use of said implement in the endoscope and wherein the zone ( 17 , 24 ) is adapted to become permanently deformed subsequent to the first use and before a second use of the implement in the endoscope ( 10 , 20 ,), said implement being permanently deformed by a treatment selected from the group consisting of mechanical, thermal and chemical treatments, such that shape matching of the implement to the endoscope is permanently eliminated, said implement, following said treatment and despite said permanent deformation, may be reinserted into the endoscope with a second force and used within said endoscope, wherein said second force is substantially greater than said first force and thereby alerts a user to the second use of the implement in the endoscope.