Abstract:
A wireless endoscopic surgical device used for minimally invasive procedures comprises a handheld component and a separate power module. The handheld component consisting of a handle and a conduit houses a wireless imaging system and a single LED light source. The imaging system comprises a wireless camera coupled to an optical assembly. Both the intensity of the LED and the camera action can be controlled by a battery-operated power module. The handle and conduit are designed to accommodate surgical tools. In alternative embodiments, the handheld component is self-contained.

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED REFERENCES 
       [0001]    This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/759,920, filed on Feb. 5, 2013, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Expensive medical devices are typically reused. The portions of those devices that contact tissue are sometime shielded with a disposable cover or sterilized after use. This concept is well known. The medical device in question would be called reusable. 
         [0003]    But as far as patient safety is concerned, reusable devices frequently pose a greater infection risk than disposable medical devices. Using a shield, as described above, transfers some of the advantages of disposables to the reusable device, but also adds complications to its operation. 
         [0004]    In many cases, a disposable device with similar performance to the reusable device would have a competitive advantage. For purposes of this disclosure, a “disposable” device or a device said to be “disposable” is defined as a device that is used once for a procedure and then discarded such that those of ordinary skill in the art would view discarding the device as reasonable in view of the overall benefits from avoiding reuse of the device. 
         [0005]    Thus, while any medical device could be discarded after a single use, in some cases doing so would be unreasonable to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0006]    Historically, endoscopes are reusable devices. Endoscopes are used to view the inside of the body through a small incision during minimally invasive surgery. 
         [0007]    A rigid endoscope system comprises the following: the endoscope itself, that is, a long tubular metallic conduit that contains optics that extend from the proximal end in a handle to the distal viewing tip. A light source cable connects to the proximal end to provide light for viewing, and the resultant image is carried through a separate optical system (lenses), back to an external camera at the proximal end. Images may be processed and stored in the camera or sent to a monitor for viewing, after being processed in an external video processing box. 
         [0008]    Endoscopes can have issues: first is failure of a component of a system, especially if it is a re-processable item; and second is the bulk or unwieldy nature of a system. 
         [0009]    Endoscopes are delicate instruments, and can become damaged with repeated use, cleaning, or resterilization. Owing to the cost, most cardiac operating rooms (ORs) do not have many back-up scopes. 
         [0010]    Optics are important parts of endoscopes. But aside from improving optical image quality, the essential elements of what is used for transferring light from the source to the target and the resultant image back to the camera have not changed much over time. Light and images are transferred by combinations of fiber optic bundles, lenses and mirrors. 
         [0011]    Fiber optic bundles can be cost effective. But they can display optical artifacts from packing density that can worsen with length. For this reason, many rigid endoscopes, gradient-index (GRIN) lenses have been used. But GRIN lenses are long, rigid lenses, limited in the length they can be made, and are historically costly. 
         [0012]    Ergonomic or logistic problems frequently seen in the OR suite stem from having many wires. As the wired devices are used during the procedures, the wires inevitably entangle with each other. Frequently, such tangling causes surgical components to break during the procedure, causing an FDA reportable incident. In some surgery cases, the fiber optic light cable and camera power cord stretching from the equipment-laden tower to the patient table causes clutter and becomes a potential tripping more other safety hazard especially with many operators and technicians working in a small OR. draping cables and cords within the OR is an important reason that wireless connectivity within the OR is promoted. 
         [0013]    Additionally, damage or failure in a scope discovered during system set up could trigger not only repair work, but if no back-up scopes were immediately available, could also force conversion to an open procedure. In Endoscopic Vein Harvesting (EVH), this also becomes an FDA-reportable incident requiring reporting and follow-up. An open procedure becomes a regular surgical procedure with associated cost and patient discomfort save it. 
         [0014]    Therefore, endoscopes are cleaned, re-sterilized, and stored with great care. Scope use is tracked, and scopes are maintained and upgraded as necessary. Education and training in scope care as well as the actual cleaning expend staff time. Light source boxes for the scopes, although not as delicate, also need to be maintained as capital equipment. And this adds time and resource costs to hospital operation. 
         [0015]    Also, in some cases tool lumens within the endoscope enter the endoscope body offset from the center of the endoscope. Offset entry can allow increased torque to inadvertently be applied to a tool, once again contributing to breakage. Moreover, offset entry requires redirection of the tip of the tool, which requires a redirection force usually provided by a plate inside of the device. The top of the surgical device can hang or catch on the plate. This interaction interferes with smooth surgical device operation. Sometimes the problem is related to a feeling of stiction within the device. In any case, offset entry interferes with the operator&#39;s use of the device. Also, the interaction of the tip of the surgical device and the redirection plate can grind material off of the tip or the plate. This material is frequently deposited in the patient. 
         [0016]    Endoscope set up carries with it inherent safety issues. The external light source box can get hot and cause burns if mis-handled. 
         [0017]    Even with functioning components, device assembly still takes time. 
         [0018]    If some or all an endoscope systems were integrated and available to the operator as one device, some of these issues could be alleviated. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0019]    Various invention embodiments supply an endoscope system with a self-contained endoscope. The endoscope can have a handle, a conduit having a proximal end connected to the distal end of the handle, a power and control module disposed within the handle, a light system disposed within the conduit and within the handle and electrically connected to the power and control module, an imaging system disposed with in the handle and electrically connected to the power and control module, and a video camera disposed within the handle optically connected to the proximal end of the imaging system and electrically connected to the power and control module. 
         [0020]    In some of these embodiments, the light system employs coherent fiber bundles in one way or another. In these or other embodiments the light system employs an LED or a high intensity LED. 
         [0021]    In some embodiments, the self-contained endoscope is battery powered and the power and control module comprises a battery. In some embodiments, a super capacitor supplies electrical power. 
         [0022]    In some embodiments, the imaging system of the self-contained endoscope uses an RF receiver or transceiver. In these or other embodiments, the imaging system uses an optical data processing unit for compression, image enhancement or other processing as is known to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0023]    In some embodiments, the self-contained endoscope has a tool bore disposed at or along the central endoscope axis. In some embodiments, the light system is offset to allow space for the tool bore to pass through the endoscope. In these or other embodiments, the light system or the CF bundles of the light system coaxially lie around the imaging system. In these or other embodiments, folding the imaging system path or the light system path within the handle move these components to the outer portion of the endoscope likewise providing space for a central tool bore. 
         [0024]    In some embodiments employ a discrete base having a receiver or transceiver and a display. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0025]      FIG. 1  is an overall system layout of an invention embodiment, showing the major components and their interconnections. 
           [0026]      FIG. 2  depicts an embodiment of an endoscopic device (see  FIG. 1 ). 
           [0027]      FIG. 3  depicts an embodiment of the imaging assembly. 
           [0028]      FIG. 4  provides two views of a distal lumen baffle  750  and an optically transparent shield  151 . 
           [0029]      FIG. 5  is a block diagram of the power and control module (PCM). 
           [0030]      FIG. 6  depict an embodiment of a self-contained endoscope. 
           [0031]      FIG. 7  depicts an embodiment of a self-contained endoscope having a bent or folded optical path in the imaging system. 
           [0032]      FIGS. 8A-C  show cross-sections of various embodiments of conduit  150 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0000]    
       
         EN device  110   
         Housing  111   
         PCM  120   
         Cable  125   
         Receiver  130   
         Handle  140   
         Handle body  141   
         End cap  142   
         T-slot  143   
         Cutout  145   
         Tool port  146   
         Tool bore  147   
         Ventilation openings  148 ,  149   
         Conduit  150   
         Tip  151   
         Transmissive joint  155   
         Imaging system  160   
         Achromatic lens  161   
         Color camera  170   
         Camera sensor  171   
         Light system  180   
         Display  190   
         Distal CF bundle  201   
         Optic elements  203 - 208   
         Distal IA end  212   
         Distal Face  214   
         Proximal Face  215   
         Distal end  218   
         Dual-lens housings  209 - 211   
         Proximal CF bundle  221   
         Coupler  229   
         Focus  230   
         Antenna  235   
         LED  237   
         Finned heat sink  238   
         Light pipe  240   
         Wiring  243   
         LP tip  248   
         Imaging assembly  260   
         Distal IA end  261   
         Switch  302   
         Connector  307   
         Indicators  311 ,  312   
         Potentiometer  313   
         Shaft  314   
         Electrical system  315   
         Camera block  317   
         Battery holder  353   
         PCB  354   
         LS control  380   
         Mirrors  409 ,  410   
         Focal adjustment screw  572   
         Focal adjustment knob  573   
         Conduit seal  705   
         Lens washing system  710   
         Locking pins  715 ,  716   
         Locking slots  718 ,  719   
         Transparent shield  720   
         Cutouts  752 ,  740 ,  735 , and  730   
         Distal lumen baffle  750   
         Optical data processing unit  774   
         Electrostatic shield  775   
         Power on/off switch  776   
       
     
         [0096]    The following description of several embodiments describes non-limiting examples that further illustrate the invention. No titles of sections contained herein, including those appearing above, are limitations on the invention, but rather they are provided to structure the illustrative description of the invention that is provided by the specification. 
         [0097]    Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used in this document have the same meanings that one skilled in the art to which the disclosed invention pertains would ascribe to them. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “fluid” refers to one or more fluids, such as two or more fluids, three or more fluids, etc. Any mention of an element includes that element&#39;s equivalents as known to those skilled in the art. 
         [0098]    Any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described in this document can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention. This disclosure incorporates by reference all publications mentioned in this disclosure all of the information disclosed in the publications. 
         [0099]    The features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. 
         [0100]    This disclosure discusses publications only to facilitate describing the current invention. Their inclusion in this document is not an admission that they are effective prior art to this invention, nor does it indicate that their dates of publication or effectiveness are as printed on the document. 
         [0101]    For purposes of this disclosure, “discrete” means lacking a physical connection to another object. For example, an object resting on the desk would be considered to be discrete from the desk. But if a screw connected the object to the desk it would not be considered “discrete”. Likewise, if an object were resting on the battery it would be discrete from battery, but if it was connected to the battery with electrical wiring, it would not be discrete. For purposes of this disclosure, “self-contained” means having all of the components necessary for operation. For example, a self-contained medical device would contain all of the components necessary for operating the medical device within the device itself. For purposes of this disclosure, “isolated” means not physically connected to another component of the system. 
         [0102]    For purposes of this disclosure, “reposable” devices are devices designed to have portions that are disposable and portions designed for reuse. In some versions of “reposable”, the device is designed such that components that are more readily cleaned or sterilized after use, while less readily sterilized or cleaned components are not necessarily designed for reuse. In some versions, the more expensive components are designed to minimize the difficulty of reusing or sterilizing the device. In some cases, reposable devices include devices having been designed to facilitate reconditioning. In some cases, reposable devices are designed for greater than 5 are 10 uses. 
         [0103]    It is expected that the disclosed system will make procedures simpler for the operator and by extension make the patient more comfortable. The devices are also expected to provide large cost savings for the hospital as costly capital equipment (scope and light source) need not be maintained, and associated costs tied to reprocessing the scope (staff time, cleaning and sterilization costs) are eliminated. 
         [0104]    The system largely dispenses with component assembly or attachment to outside equipment. ORs could keep an inventory of these systems for procedures. Should any damage be discovered, another package could be opened without delay in procedure or conversion to open surgery. 
         [0105]    For those systems that are disposable, facilities (hospitals) would not need to educate staff members in special cleaning, sterilization, or maintenance procedures. This frees time and resources for the hospital. Single-use devices such as this also makes for simpler inventory control dispensing with coordinating capital equipment service agreements with vendors. 
         [0106]    The internalized camera, wireless transmission of the image, and optics designed around a device configuration enabled the overall size of the device to be small. Compared with an assemblage of cannula, camera, and associated cables and cords of a conventional system, a conduit with a handle is much more compact and therefore expected to be easier for the operator to manipulate during the procedure. 
       System Components 
       [0107]      FIG. 1  shows an example of invention EN system  100 . EN system  100  comprises EN device  110 , cable  125 , power and control module (PCM)  120 , receiver  130 , handle  140 , conduit  150 , monitor  190 , and data cable  200 . Imaging system  160 , color camera  170 , light system  180  are not shown in  FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, cable  125  is optional. In these or other embodiments, PCM  120  is part of handle  140  or is contained within housing  111 . 
         [0108]    As shown in  FIG. 2 , handle  140  connects to conduit  150  to form housing  111 . In some embodiments, the connection between handle  140  and conduit  150  allows for disconnection between these components, and in some embodiments the connection is permanent. Handle  140  also connects to PCM  120  through cable  125 . This connection provides an electrical supply to handle  140 . 
         [0109]    In the current invention, a system is described that integrates light system  180  and imaging system  160  into a single conduit- 150 -handle- 140  assembly. In some embodiments, the PCM  120  is also inside of handle  140 . In other embodiments, cable  125  connects to PCM  120  to handle  140 . In some embodiments, this integrated system is disposable. 
         [0110]    Moving back to  FIG. 1 , one sees that base  201  comprises receiver  130  that, in some embodiments, has wireless connectivity with camera  170 . Data line  200  connects receiver  130  to monitor  190  and transmits data from or to and from receiver  130  to monitor  190 . In some embodiments, monitor  190  is a general or special purpose computer. 
         [0111]      FIG. 2  shows an embodiment of the invention EN System  110 . It depicts an embodiment of housing  111 , and an embodiment of imaging system  160 , and an embodiment of light system  180 . 
         [0112]    Housing  111  has handle  140 , handle body  141 , end cap  142 , T-slot  143 , cutout  145 , and tool port  146 . T-slot  143  is used in some embodiments to receive a manipulation tool (not shown). Cut-out  145  receives focus wheel  233 . 
         [0113]    In some embodiments imaging system  160  or light system  180  are disposed against the inside wall of conduit  150 . Moving the imaging system  160  and light system  180  up against the outer wall of conduit  150  facilitates passing a surgical instrument down the center of EN device  110 . In some embodiments, the surgical device is coaxial with the EN device  110 , rotation of EN device  110  can occur while the surgical device remains stationary. 
         [0114]    As depicted in  FIG. 2 , imaging system  160  comprises color camera  170 , coupler  229 , focus system  230 , and image assembly  260 . Imaging system  160  lies within housing  111 . And coupler  229  connects focus system  230  to color camera  170 . 
         [0115]    Color camera  170  has wiring  243 , antenna  235 , and camera sensor  171  (not shown in  FIG. 2 ). Color camera  170  converts light impinging on camera sensor  171  into electrical signals and transmits those signals through antenna  235 . In some embodiments, color camera  170  receives electrical signals such as power or control signals through wiring  243 . In some embodiments, camera sensor  171  is a high definition (HD) charge coupled device (CCD). 
         [0116]    Suitable cameras are commercially available and well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Suitable cameras transmit image data using RF or free-space optical communication. In various embodiments suitable cameras transmit within the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) frequency band. In various other embodiments, the cameras operate in the Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) or 2.4 or 5.8 GHz band or the 900 MHz band. In some embodiments, the color camera  170  mounts in handle  140  and receives power from PCM  120 . As those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, other image detector technologies are useful in suitable color cameras 
         [0117]    Printed circuit boards used in various invention embodiments are designed for specific refresh and scan rates, to match display  190 . This delivers optimum performance, by preventing edge effects from mismatched formats within to the camera-monitor display. Additionally, sync signals from camera to PCM  120  can eliminate any power drop-out and/or disruptions that cause temporary signal loss or HD image loss at the monitor. 
         [0118]    The embodiment in  FIG. 2 , has a wired color camera  170  with selectable resolution (1080P/30/720). This device also dramatically reduces the number of cords and external fiber optic illumination cables running to EN device  110 . A single power line about 0.200″ in diameter leads to the back end of handle  140 , for wired embodiments. 
         [0119]    In some embodiments, the outer diameter of conduit  150  (a stainless steel tube) is about 0.5 to 5.2 mm. In other embodiments, such components are about 12.7 mm OD and comprise internal ports for assorted surgical tools. The outer diameter (OD) of conduit  150  is between 5.0 and 5.2 mm in diameter, in some embodiments. EVH-specific scopes sometimes use 12.7 mm OD and have internal ports for assorted surgical tools. 
         [0120]    Focus system  230  comprises focus wheel  233 , wheel shaft  232 , plate  231 , and alignment rod  244 . Focus system  230  receives light representing an image at its distal end and focuses that image through coupler  229  onto an imaging plate or detector. Focus wheel  233  changes the length of the focal elements inside of focus system  230  to cause the image to come into focus. Those of ordinary skill in the art are experienced with the construction and selection of focusing systems for endoscopes. 
         [0121]    As with imaging system  160 , imaging assembly  260  lies within housing  111 . 
         [0122]      FIG. 3  depicts an embodiment of an imaging assembly  260  that is part of EN device  110 . Imaging assembly  260  comprises two, segmented, coherent fiber (CF) bundles  201  and  221 , six achromatic optic elements  203  through  208 , and three dual-lens housings  209 ,  210 , and  211 . Segmented CF bundles ( 201  and  221 ) comprise fiber segments of a length and diameter appropriate to fit EN device  110  in  FIG. 2 . CF bundles ( 201  and  221 ) relay an image of the target  38  through close-packed fibers while maintaining image orientation. Each of the optic elements ( 203  through  208 ) comprise different classes and exhibit different grind radiuses to counter spherical and chromatic aberrations of the image. The image first impinges on distal IA end  212 . Achromatic optic elements  203  and  204  lie within dual-lens housing  209  and transfer and focus the image at distal IA end  212  to distal CF bundle end  214 . The number of optic elements, lens housings, etc. is exemplary only and will rise or fall as the optical design dictates. 
         [0123]    Optic elements  203 ,  204  are contained at the distal end  212  of the imaging assembly  260 . They transfer and collect an image of target  38  to distal face  214  of distal CF bundle  201 . Distal CF bundle  201  extends from dual-lens housing  209  to dual lens housing  210 . Distal CF bundle  201  transfers the image to proximal face  215  of distal CF bundle  201 . Dual lens housing  210  has optic elements  205  and  206  The second two optic elements  205  and  206  are contained in the second dual-lens housing  210 . These two optic elements ( 205  and  206 ) have focal lengths that project the image at proximal end  215  to distal end  218  of proximal CF bundle  221  without substantial distortion. This coupling technique is known as Free Space Optical Coupling. 
         [0124]    Optic elements  207  and  208  are inside of dual-lens housing  211  and similar to the optic elements contained in dual-lens housings  209  and  210 . But the magnification levels of optic elements  207  and  208  can be changed in order to adjust the size of the image as it is viewed on a video monitor or display  190 . Proximal CF bundle  221  transfers the image from distal end  218  to proximal end  219 . Optic elements  207  and  208  have focal lengths that project the image at proximal end  218  to proximal end  213 . The image at proximal end  213  couples to color camera  170  using coupler  229 . 
         [0125]      FIG. 4  provides two views of a distal lumen baffle  750  that sits at the distal end endoscopic devices. Cutouts  752 ,  740 ,  735  and  730  in baffle  750  are for various lumens that are contained within EN device  110 . Baffle  750  is secured at the distal end of EN device  110  by conduit seal  705 . The distal end of lens washing system  710  is shown along with two locking pins  715  and  716  that mate with locking slots  718  and  719  to secure the optically transparent shield  720  against baffle  750  when shield  720  is required during a surgical procedure. Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other embodiments exist that use a structure differing from that of distal lumen baffle  750  to provide functionality similar to that of baffle  750 . 
         [0126]    Also shown in  FIG. 2 , light system  180  comprises light pipe  182 , LED  237 , wiring  238 , and light pipe tip  248 . As with imaging system  160 , light system  180  lies within housing  111 . Light system  180  generates light, which travels across transmissive joint  155  through conduit  150  and projects past tip  151 . 
         [0127]    Light pipe tip  248  at the distal end of light pipe  182  has been cut and polished to render light pipe tip  248  non-imaging. In some embodiments this rendition comprises using tip  248  that has been cut and polished to a 30° angle. For purposes of this disclosure, the angle is measured relative to the longitudinal axis of light pipe  182 . In other embodiments, this rendition comprises tip  248  that has been cut and polished perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of light pipe  182 . An angle of 90° indicates a tip cut perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and an angle of 30° indicates an angle 30° counterclockwise from the longitudinal axis, in the quadrant between 0° from the axis and perpendicular to the axis. 
         [0128]    In some embodiments, light pipe  182  comprises 100 micron stepped-index multimode optical fiber bundles  182 A enclosed in a circular close pack configuration at the proximal end, for light coupling efficiency. The fiber bundle passes through the device, then enters the annular gap between two concentric stainless steel hypo tubes. The fibers are arranged in a circular fashion, for uniform light distribution at the distal end of the scope. 
         [0129]    In those embodiments that use an LED as the light source, LED  237  generates light that travels through light pipe  182  and projects out of light pipe tip  248  illuminating the region beyond tip  248 . Sometimes LED  237  is an OPTEK 1-Watt SMD  6 mm rated at 90 luminous Flux (Im). The use of High flux density Luxeon M LED, manufactured by Philips (lumileds). This type of LED has a higher luminous flux, typically 900 (Im), and runs hotter requiring dissipation of the heat. In some embodiments, the electrical input power operates near or above 3 watts. 
         [0130]    In some embodiments, EN device  110  has a solid glass waveguide (3.0 mm Dia.), producing an illumination pattern offset from the imaging optical axis. This waveguide is positioned in a side-by-side configuration at the distal end of the scope body. In some embodiments, a fiber bundle is aligned in a circular configuration around the distal imaging lens. This circular configuration surrounding the imaging lens on the scope tip provides a uniform light distribution on the same optical axis as the imaging optics. 
         [0131]    Some embodiments use software to connect or remove light reflected into imaging system  160  from body tissue or surgical tools. This software operates in real-time at the receiver end, within 250 milliseconds before being transmitted by the transmitter contained in the devices. 
         [0132]    in some embodiments, proximal coherent fiber bundle  221  lacks S-curve, and is straight. Imaging assembly  260  also comprises proximal imaging assembly end  262  that couples to color camera  170  through coupler  229 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , the proximal coherent fiber bundle  221  has S-curve  220  near its proximal end. 
         [0133]      FIG. 5  depicts a block diagram of electrical system  315  that comprises power block  340 , camera block  317 , and LS controller  380 . Power block  340  comprises an energy source such as a battery. Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other embodiments exist that use other types of batteries or that use a power source other than batteries, such as a wall outlet, capacitor-based energy source, or other power source invented in the future. In some self-contained embodiments, the components represented in  FIG. 5  are contained within housing  111 . 
         [0134]    LS controller  380  comprises LED driver circuits  306  and a light source intensity controller  305 . Intensity controller  305  and driver circuits  306  receive power from power block  340 . Driver circuits  306  modify the power to suit the LED or other light source. And intensity controller  305  adjust the intensity of the light source. Those of ordinary skill in the art are well versed in selecting suitable intensity controllers to match the selected light source. 
         [0135]    Referring again to  FIG. 5 , interface connectors  307  and  324  are two separate components: panel-mount-type connector  307  and mating inline connector  324 . Interface connectors  307  and  324  interact with cable  125 . Connectors  307  and  324  each have two separate contacts and a common ground; cable  125  is a small diameter, flexible, three-wire cable. Connector  324  is permanently wired to one end of cable  125  while the other end of cable  125  is wired to color camera  170  and LED  237  in handle  140  of EN device  110 . 
         [0136]    EN device  110  and related invention devices may comprise means for activating a sensor on PCM  120  or related invention devices. The sensor may take the form of a simple switch, or it may take the form of a more complex sensor. For example, the sensor may be a detector that interacts with the means for activating in such a way that the sensor is capable of detecting a unique identifier composing a part of EN device  110  that identifies the origin, manufacturer, and/or type of the endoscopic device. Such an identifier, for example, may send a signal to PCM  120 . In another embodiment of the invention, the identifier may include a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag or some other integrated-circuit-based identifier mounted anywhere on or otherwise associated with EN device  110 . In another embodiment of the invention, the identifier may include a resistor mounted on the EN device  110 . In some of these embodiments, the sensor-identifier interaction causes hardware or software in the PCM  120  to refuse to power EN device  110 , such as when the PCM  120  determines that an operator is attempting to inappropriately reuse EN device  120 . 
         [0137]      FIG. 6  depicts a self-contained endoscope, otherwise called EN device  110 . Housing  111  connects to conduit  150 . Imaging system  160  extends through conduit  150  into housing  111 . In this case, imaging system  160  comprises proximal achromatic lens  161 . Proximal achromatic lens  161  focuses an image transmitted along the conduit imaging system  160  on to color camera  170 . Light system  180  also extends through conduit  150  into housing  111 . Light system  180  bends out of the path of imaging system  160 , once light system  180  enters housing  111 . In this embodiment, light system  180  uses coherent optical fibers to transmit light from the housing to the tissue at the distal end of conduit  150 . As can be seen, light in this embodiment is produced by LED  237 . In some embodiments LED  237  is equipped with finned heat sinks  238  to remove heat that is generated by LED  237 . In some embodiments, the anode and cathode connections, such as soldering connections, are optimized to facilitate heat removal, as well. Housing  111  also contains ventilation openings  148  and  149 . 
         [0138]    Color camera  170  is attached to the focusing mechanism comprising focal assembly adjustment screw  572  and focusing adjustment knob  573 . Manipulation of knob  573  causes color camera  170  to move laterally, adjusting the distance between camera  170  and lens  161 . This embodiment has optical data processing unit  774  and is powered by batteries  354 . The figure shows electrostatic shield  775  disposed between battery  354  and between camera  170  and optical data processing unit  774 . Also shown in this figure is antenna  235 , which facilitates transmission of optical data from the endoscope to a discrete base unit, and power switch  776 . 
         [0139]      FIG. 7  details a partial assembly of an embodiment of EN device  110  has a dual-folded imaging system  160 . The folding occurs within handle  140  and allows EN device  110  to be more compact and allows imaging system  160  to avoid or clear the central axis of EN device  110 . The clearance that flows from folding imaging system  160  facilitates a low-friction path through EN device  110 , which accepts a surgical device in some embodiments. The surgical device enters the proximal end  411  of EN device  110 . In these types of embodiments, color camera  170 , coupler  229 , focusing mechanism components ( 230  through  234 ) and lens housing  211  have been shifted off center of the handle  140 . In this embodiment, two 45-degree mirrors  409  and  410 , allow folding without substantial degradation of an image. 
         [0140]      FIGS. 8A-C  show various embodiments of conduit  150  in cross-section.  FIG. 8A  depicts conduit  150  substantially coaxially around tool bore  147 . Imaging assembly  260  in this embodiment uses a light pipe for transmitting light representing image data from the distal end of EN device  110 . Likewise, light system  180  uses light pipe  182  in this embodiment. Both imaging assembly  260  and light system  180  are sharply offset towards the inner wall of conduit  150  such that both clear the central region leaving space in the central region for tool bore  147 . 
         [0141]      FIG. 8B  depicts conduit  150  substantially coaxially around tool bore  147 . Imaging assembly  260  in this embodiment uses a light pipe for transmitting light representing image data from the distal end of EN device  110 . Likewise, light system  180  uses coherent fiber bundles made up of optical fibers  182 A in this embodiment. Both imaging assembly  260  and light system  180  are sharply offset towards the inner wall of conduit  150  such that both clear the central region leaving space in the central region for tool bore  147 . 
         [0142]      FIG. 8C  shows an embodiment with even more central-region space savings. This figure depicts conduit  150  substantially coaxially around tool bore  147 , as before. Imaging assembly  260  in this embodiment uses a light pipe for transmitting light representing image data from the distal end of EN device  110 . But in this case, light system  180  is disposed coaxially around imaging assembly  260 . As shown, light system  180  uses coherent fiber bundles made up of optical fibers  182 A with the individual optical fibers  182 A substantially forming a ring around imaging assembly  260 . Both imaging assembly  260  and light system  180  continue to be sharply offset towards the inner wall of conduit  150 , but in this arrangement use up even less interior space within conduit  150 . 
         [0143]    Receiver  130  connects to image display  190 , which displays the image data. In some embodiments, display  190  displays the image data, displays and records the data, or merely records the data. 
         [0144]    In some embodiments, the image clean-up microprocessor will execute a software feature on the receiver end of the hardware package. Without the image clean-up process, the fiber-conduit-based image assembly  260  might exhibits light image artifacts that can be observed under certain conditions. 
         [0145]    If an alternative source of relay optical conduits is used such as GRINS, no post imaging processing is needed to remove the artifacts. But generally GRINS are more expensive than coherent fiber bundles. 
         [0146]    The small artifacts, caused by the spaces between the drawn optical fibers ( ˜ 5-10 microns), can be removed by the use of image processing software, without compromising the integrity of the image. 
         [0147]    The image information will be generated within EN device  110  (transmitter) and sent to display  190  or to stand-alone electronic components by wired or wireless transmission methods. 
       Operation 
       [0148]    In operation, EN device  110  is energized by PCM  120  supplying power through cable  125 . Contemporaneously, base  190 , wire  200 , and receiver  130  are energized. Receiver  130  and color camera  170  establish a wireless data connection with each other. At an appropriate time PCM  120  provides signals to light system  182  to cause appropriate or chosen lighting level to be generated by LED  237 . The light from LED  237  travels down light pipe  182  and projects out of light pipe tip  248  illuminating the field adjacent light pipe tip  248 . Either before or after turning on light system  180 , handle  140 , and conduit  150  are inserted into a patient&#39;s body, either using or not using a trocar to aid insertion. 
         [0149]    EN device  110  projects light from light system  180  onto bodily tissue. That light reflects off of the tissue forming an image. 
         [0150]    The image is projected into imaging system  160 , as described above. Ultimately, the image impinges on sensor or plate  175 , after which, color camera  170  transmits the image data over wireless or wired path to receiver  130 . Once the image data is within base  201 , the data is displayed on monitor display  190 . 
         [0151]    For self-contained EN device embodiments similar to those of  FIG. 6 , in operation the device is set up. Data connectivity between self-contained device  110  through color camera  170  and antennae  235  is established with a base unit having a monitor  190 . The device is powered by batteries  354 . 
         [0152]    Conduit  150  is inserted into the patient, and once conduit is positioned at the desired location, the operator energizes LED  237 . Light system  180  projects LED light along light system  180  out of the end of conduit  150 , thereby illuminating the internal surgical region. For some high-intensity versions of LED  237 , extra heat is conducted away from LED  237  by finned heat sinks  238  and out of housing  111  partially through ventilation openings  148 ,  149 . Light from light system  180  reflects off of the tissue forming an image. The image light enters imaging assembly  260  (part of imaging system  160 ). The optics of imaging assembly  260  conduct the image light up conduit  150  into housing  111 . There, proximal achromatic lens  161  focuses the image light into camera  170  and camera  170  turns the photonic data into electrical data. Within color camera  170  or optical data processing unit  774  various manipulations can be carried out on the image data, as desired. At the desired time, EN device  110  transmits the image data (in some embodiments before or after on-board manipulation) to receiver  130  in the base. There the image can be displayed on monitor or display  190 . 
         [0153]    When the image data does not arrive at camera  170  in focus, the operator can manipulate knob  573  to bring the image into focus. Rotation of knob  573  causes adjustment screw  572  to rotate. This causes camera  170  to move longitudinally because camera  170  is mounted on screw  572 . 
         [0154]    In some embodiments, EN device  110  is disassembled after use. For instance, in some embodiments conduit  150  along with imaging system  260  up to lens  161  and along with light system  180  up to just before LED  237  are removed for reconditioning and the remainder of EN Device  110  is discarded. In this type of embodiment, conduit  150  would be cleaned and sterilized and mounted within a new EN device  110 . This processing can be carried out at the surgical facility or elsewhere. 
         [0155]    While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made without departing from the embodiments of this invention in its broader aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as fall within the true, intended, explained, disclose, and understood scope and spirit of this invention&#39;s multitudinous embodiments and alternative descriptions. 
         [0156]    Additionally, various embodiments have been described above. For convenience&#39;s sake, combinations of aspects composing invention embodiments have been listed in such a way that one of ordinary skill in the art may read them exclusive of each other when they are not necessarily intended to be exclusive. But a recitation of an aspect for one embodiment is meant to disclose its use in all embodiments in which that aspect can be incorporated without undue experimentation. In like manner, a recitation of an aspect as composing part of an embodiment is a tacit recognition that a supplementary embodiment exists that specifically excludes that aspect. All patents, test procedures, and other documents cited in this specification are fully incorporated by reference to the extent that this material is consistent with this specification and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted. 
         [0157]    Moreover, some embodiments recite ranges. When this is done, it is meant to disclose the ranges as a range, and to disclose each and every point within the range, including end points. For those embodiments that disclose a specific value or condition for an aspect, supplementary embodiments exist that are otherwise identical, but that specifically exclude the value or the conditions for the aspect.