Patent ID: 7128708
Filing Date: 2006-10-31
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for advancing a first diagnostic or therapeutic instrument into a hollow body organ of unsupported anatomy, the apparatus composing: a handle; an overtube coupled to the handle, the overtube having a elongated portion, a distal region, a distal opening and a lumen extending therethrough to permit passage of a first diagnostic or therapeutic instrument; an atraumatic tip selected from the group consisting of (a) inflatable donut-shaped balloons; (b) wire petals with an elastomeric coverings; and (c) foam or soft elastomer bumpers disposed on the distal region adjacent to the distal opening, wherein the atraumatic tip deflects the hollow body organ in the vicinity of the distal opening so that tissue is not caught or pinched when the first diagnostic or therapeutic instrument is translated through the distal opening.