Patent ID: 6126592
Filing Date: 2000-10-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
An improved disposable sheath for use in combination with a endoscope of the type that includes an elongated bundle of optical fibers for viewing an internal surgical site, the endoscope including a distal tip adapted to transmit images from the surgical site through the fibers, the improved sheath comprising:a. an elongated housing with proximal and distal ends;b. a first opening extending through the housing for receiving an endoscope;c. a second opening extending though the housing configured for an inflow and outflow of fluid through the housing;d. the proximal end of the housing being adapted to secure the housing relative to an endoscope and connect the second opening to a source of fluid;e. the distal end having top and bottom portions;f. the first opening being unobstructed at the distal end of the housing to allow an endoscope's distal tip to project past the top potion of the housing distal end;g. the bottom portion of the housing distal end extending beyond an endoscope's distal tip;h. the second opening extending through the bottom portion of the housing distal end so that fluid flowing out of the second opening will clean an endoscope's distal tip, project a fluid stream into the surgical view and provide for the inflow of fluid from a surgical site.