Patent ID: 7762949
Filing Date: 2010-07-27
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A flexible endoscope comprising a flexible elongate insertion shaft incorporating an image-carrying component and having a circumference, said insertion shaft being formed with at least one longitudinally extending substantially circular channel, said channel including a longitudinal slot contiguous with an outer surface of said insertion shaft, said slot having a transverse dimension smaller than any diameter of said channel; a closure member configured to close said channel, said closure member being an elongate strip formed with a pair of parallel longitudinal edges configured to attach to respective opposing edges of said longitudinal slot of said insertion member, at least one of said closure member and said insertion shaft being provided with a groove, the other of said closure member and said insertion shaft being insertable into said groove to removably attach said closure member to said insertion shaft, said closure member completing the circumference of said insertion member.