Patent ID: 7753843
Filing Date: 2010-07-13
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A medical device comprising: an endoscope having an elongated flexible tube defining a longitudinal axis and including a proximal portion and a distal portion connected to the proximal portion by a joint; wherein the flexible tube defines a first lumen extending through the proximal portion and the distal portion and leading to an opening defined on an exterior side surface of the flexible tube at a distal end of the flexible tube, and the flexible tube defines a second lumen defined within the proximal portion and housing a torque transfer element therein; and wherein the distal portion rotates relative to the proximal portion, wherein the torque transfer element comprises a shaft extending distally to a gear arrangement in the distal portion, such that when torque is applied to the shaft, rotary motion is transferred to rotate the distal portion around said longitudinal axis relative to the proximal portion, wherein the distal portion defines a cavity that extends distally within the distal portion, the cavity receiving a distal portion of the torque transfer element that extends distally beyond the second lumen, wherein rotation of the torque transfer element transmits rotary motion to the distal portion, and wherein the cavity is sized to permit rotation of the distal portion in an amount less than 360 degrees relative to the proximal portion.