Patent Publication Number: US-2021186310-A1

Title: Flexible Endoscopic Peripheral

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This Application is continuation of U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 16/043,449 entitled “Flexible Endoscopic Peripheral”, filed Jul. 24, 2018 which is continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 10,029,07: entitled “Endoscopic Peripheral”, filed Oct. 17, 2012 which claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/548,596 entitled “Nasal Guide and Method of Use Thereof”, filed Oct. 18, 2011, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/559,190 entitled “Portable Endoscope and Method of Use Thereof”, filed Nov. 14, 2011 U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/583.658 entitled “Endoscopic Sheath and Method of Use Thereof”, filed Jan. 12, 2012, and U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/595,885 entitled “Systems and Methods for Controlling Balloon Catheters” filed Feb. 7, 2012, the entire contents of which are all hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Each year more and more surgical procedures are performed through the body orifices or surgically created openings. Procedures and surgeries within the body of the patient require positioning the necessary equipment, such as endoscopes. Endoscopy refers to looking inside a typically refers to looking inside the body for medical reasons using an endoscope, an instrument used to examine the interior portion of body, such as a hollow organ or cavity of the body. 
     Some endoscopic procedures may require multiple medical professionals to ensure proper guidance and placement of the equipment due to the size, bulk, and awkwardness of the equipment. For example, many endoscopes may include handles, scopes, external processing equipment, and custom displays. The endoscopes may be extremely expensive preventing many medical professionals from purchasing or using endoscopes despite the many advantages offered. In many ways, current systems, devices, and techniques for performing endoscopic procedures fail to adequately address these and other issues. 
     SUMMARY 
     One embodiment provides an endoscopic peripheral, and system including a flexible cable connecting a first end and a second end. The first end of a flexible cable including at least a camera and one or more lights positioned at a time o f the first end. The tip is configured for insertion of at least a portion of the first end into a body of a patient. The second end of the flexible cable terminates in a connector configured to physically connect the endoscopic peripheral to an electronic device external to the body of a patient. The electronic device powers the camera and the one or more lights and displays content captured by the camera. 
     Another embodiment includes a control connected to the flexible cable with the camera and the one or more lights for controlling at least the one or more lights. The tip may include a lens protecting the camera and the one or more lights. The controls may include a switch for powering the endoscopic peripheral on and off. The endoscopic peripheral may comply with Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) standard when connecting to the electronic device. An application nay be downloaded to the electronic device for interfacing with the endoscopic peripheral. The first end may be rigid and encloses a portion of the camera and the one or more lights. The first end may be cylindrically shaped. The flexible cable may be configured to be bent or positioned and thereafter hold the position. The camera may capture a number of spectra for examining bode of the patient. 
     One embodiment of an endoscopic peripheral includes a first end of a flexible cable including at least a camera and one or more lights enclosed by a tip at the first end. The tip is tapered for insertion of a portion of the first end into a body of a patient. The endoscopic peripheral includes one or more controls interconnected with and controlling the camera and the one or more lights. A second end of the flexible cable terminates in a plug configured to physically connect the endoscopic peripheral to an electronic device. The electronic device powers the camera and the one or more lights and displays content captured by the camera. The endoscopic peripheral is plug and play when connected to the electronic device. The diameter of the diameter of the endoscopic peripheral between the first end and the second end is approximately the same. 
     Another embodiment of an endoscopic peripheral provides a first end including at least a camera and one or more lights. The endoscopic peripheral may also include a second end, which may include a plug to physically connect the endoscopic peripheral to a computing device or a wireless device. The endoscopic peripheral may also include a flexible cable For communicating content captured by the camera to the computing device or wireless device. 
     Another embodiment provides an endoscopic peripheral. The endoscopic peripheral may include a flexible cable having a first end. The first end may include at least a camera and one or more lights. The flexible cable may further have a second end. The second end may include a plug to physically connect the endoscopic peripheral to at least one of a computing device or a wireless device. The flexible cable may be adapted to communicate content captured by the camera to the computing device or wireless device. 
     Another embodiment provides an endoscopic peripheral. The endoscopic peripheral may include a first end including a camera and one or more lights at a tip. The first end may be flexible to be positioned for utilization. The endoscopic peripheral may include a second end including a plug for electrically connecting the endoscopic peripheral to an electronic device configured to display content captured by the camera. The endoscopic peripheral may also include a flexible cable connecting the first end and the second end. 
     Another embodiment provides a method for utilizing an endoscopic peripheral. The endoscopic peripheral may be physically connected to an electronic device. The electronic device powers at least a camera and one or more lights of the endoscopic peripheral. The endoscopic peripheral is interfaced with the electronic device to display the content captured by the camera. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated by reference herein and wherein: 
         FIGS. 1A-C  are pictorial representations of nose and nostril shapes in accordance with illustrative embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic, plan view of a nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic, plan view of a nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic, plan view of another nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic, than view of another nasal guide it accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic, pictorial representation of another nasal guide installed on a patient in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic, side-view of a nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is a schematic, side view of another nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic, side-view of another nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic, side view of a nasal guide being utilized on a patient in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a portable endoscope in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic, side view of a cylindrical light and camera in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIGS. 14 and 15  are schematic, front views of the portable endoscope in accordance with illustrative embodiments; 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic, pictorial representation of the portable endoscope in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide being utilized portable endoscope and a scope in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is a schematic, pictorial representation of an endoscopic peripheral in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is a schematic, pictorial representation of another endoscopic peripheral in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a disposable cover for an endoscopic peripheral in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 21  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a disposable cover for the endoscopic peripherals in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 22  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a plug-and-play endoscopic peripheral and a cover in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 23  is a flowchart of a process for utilizing an endoscopic peripheral in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and 
         FIG. 24  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a communications environment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Illustrative embodiments provide an endoscopic peripheral. The endoscopic peripheral may be configured to communicate directly with a computing or communications device, The computing device may be a personal computer, laptop, desktop computer, or other data processing system or device. The communications device may be a wireless device, such as a cell phone, electronic book, mp3 player, media system, gaming system, PDA, tablet, iPhone, iPad, appliance, or so forth. The endoscopic peripheral may be utilized to capture video, images, and content in any number of spectrums, wavelength, and so forth. 
     In an illustrative embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral is small, portable, light weight, inexpensive and able to be utilized with existing electronic devices available to a medical professional. As a result, many patients that have not previously benefited from endoscopic analysis and treatment may receive the associated medical examination, analysis, and treatment. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral is a plug-and-play device or wireless device equivalent that may be utilized without specialized software or other components. A plug-and-play device provides a standard for the connection of peripherals, such that the endoscopic peripheral only needs to be connected to a computer or computing device in order to function as desired without additional requirements. For example, the default or installed software of the computing or communications device may be utilized to both view content, save the content, and otherwise manage the content. The computing or communications device may not need specific drivers, software, or other applications. As a result, the user may utilize the endoscopic peripheral with any number of commonly available electronic devices that have an electronic display and in any number of locations and circumstances. 
     In another embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral may be utilized with specialized logic or software for capturing, saving and sharing the content with any number of other users, such as doctors, nurses, dentists, physicians assistants, coworkers, or so forth. The software may be included in an operating, system, program, set of instructions, or mobile application. For example, video or images captured by the endoscopic peripheral may be communicated to, transferred or shared with a medical professional, system, or networked device based on a request from the medical professional, an association with an identifier of the endoscopic peripheral, or in response to a request from the user. For example, a MAC address, IP address, website, dedicated server, IMEI, or other identifier may be utilized to send and receive content captured be the endoscopic peripheral. 
     The endoscopic peripheral may be utilized for any number of medical examinations including examining the ears, throat, nose, mouth, internal organs and tissues, and other orifices or surgically created openings in the body. The endoscopic peripheral may also be utilized for construction, structural review, or in any other number of circumstances where a small camera may be required. The use of the peripheral endoscope may also include telemedicine wherein an individual may capture data and transfer the data collected to a physician or appropriate healthcare provider in order to diagnose issues. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral may be disposable for one time or field use. In another embodiment, the endoscopic, peripheral may be configured for cleaning, sanitizing, or may include a disposable cover for utilization with a number of patients or uses. 
     Another embodiment provides a portable endoscope. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope is a wand-shaped endoscope that may be utilized alone or with the nasal guide. The portable endoscope has a reduced footprint and is self-contained to wirelessly transmit video or still-images (“images” or “content”) to one or more computing devices, which may be wired or wireless devices. In another embodiment, the camera of the portable endoscope may communicate and be powered through a wire or cable with an externally-connected transmitter and battery. The portable endoscope decreases the size and complexity of endoscopic systems and equipment. In addition, the portable endoscope includes interchangeable parts including a camera, lights, processing or logic components, a transmitter or transceiver, and/or a battery that may be adapted for the patient, medical professional, or medical procedure. Both the portable endoscope and the described guide may be utilized for any sort of visualization within the body of a patient. The portable endoscope may be utilized in a wireless mode or wired mode (when physically connected to and powered by or charged by a computing or communications device). Unless otherwise indicated, as used herein, “or” does not require mutual exclusivity. 
     Another embodiment provides a nasal guide and a method for utilizing the nasal guide. In one embodiment, the nasal guide provides a guide for inserting one or more endoscopes, catheters, guides, or other pieces of equipment into the nose of a patient for surgery or examination. Unless otherwise indicated, as used herein, “or” does not require mutual exclusivity. In particular, the nasal guide directs the medical equipment into the nose of the patient toward the sinuses and stabilizes the equipment during insertion, utilization, and removal of the equipment. As a result, surgeries, such as balloon sinuplasty, may be performed by a single medical professional or fewer medical professionals while still maintaining instrument stability. The nasal guide may include one or more walled openings, lumens, ports, or through holes for inserting the medical equipment. 
     The nasal guide ma be configured to be secured utilizing elastic, bands, clips, or adhesives that may be adjusted or customized for each individual patient. For example, an elastic band may include a clip or strings for tightening or loosening the fit of the nasal guide in and against the nose of the patient. The nasal guide may be manufactured in a number of sizes and shapes to fit the noses (including snouts and muzzles) of patients of any age and size including humans and animals. 
     In alternative embodiments, the guide may be configured for a mouth, ear(s), rectum, or other natural or surgically-created opening. The nasal guide gently expands the nostrils of the patient allowing the equipment and medical professional to more easily access an interior portion of the body or nose including the sinus cavity and sinuses. The opening action of the nasal guide may also help the patient breath before, during, or after the medical procedure is performed. 
     In one embodiment, the nasal guide may be configured to both receive and guide medical instruments deeper into the nose while expanding the nostrils and stabilizing the medical instruments during the procedure. As a result, fewer medical professionals may be required, and medical procedures may be performed with less concern about damaging the nostrils of the patient. The nasal guide may be configured for use in a single nostril or in both nostrils for enhanced stability. In addition, suction or oxygen attachments may be integrated with or attached to the nasal guide (portions inserted within the nose as well as external to the nose) allowing suction or oxygen to be applied to the patient through tale nasal guide. 
     Any of the components and features of the illustrative embodiments, including the priority applications and related applications, may be combined in a nearly unlimited number of configurations best suited to fit the body of the patient and/or the needs of medical professionals. 
       FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C  are pictorial representations of various noses  102 ,  104 , and  106  and nostril shapes with which the illustrative embodiments may be implemented. The visible part of the nose is the protruding part of the face that bears the nostrils or anterior nares. Typically, the shape of the nose is determined by the ethmoid bone and the nasal septum. The nasal septum separates the left and right airways of the nose to divide the two nostrils, and is formed mostly of cartilage. Nose and nostril sizes, shapes, and configurations vary by age, sex, race, and other factors. In addition, accidents, birth defects, and other factors may influence the size and shape of all interior and exterior portions of the nose, and such circumstances may be accounted for by the illustrative embodiments. 
     The nostrils  112 ,  114 , and  116  vary between the different noses  102 ,  104 , and  106 . As shown for nose  102 , the nose  102  includes a tip  118 , columella  120 , left lateral side  122 , and right lateral side  124 . The nasal guides of the illustrative embodiments are sized and shaped to conform to any number of noses and nostrils despite the differences in size and shape. The nasal guides may be utilized to guard against abrasion or damage to the nostrils  112 ,  114 , and  116 , and the interior and exterior periphery of the nose about the nostrils  112 ,  114 , and  116  including the columella  120 . 
     In one embodiment of the nasal guide, and use thereof, the patient may be distracted by the sensation of the portion of the nasal guide that fits into the patient&#39;s nostrils) instead of focusing on the actual medical procedure that is being performed. As a result, scopes and other medical instruments may be more easily inserted and removed from the nostrils without damaging the soft interior and exterior skin and tissues of the nose. 
     In the illustrative embodiments, the term “patient” is utilized to refer to any individual, user, or animal that may have a medical procedure or other process performed through the nostrils of the nose, snout, or muzzle, or other natural or surgical opening of the body. Although the noses  102 ,  104 , and  106  shown are human noses, the nasal guides may be sized and configured to be utilized for any patient, including any human, animal, or living creature. Non-limiting examples of animals on which the nasal guide may be used include domestic and exotic animals (i.e., mammals, reptiles, amphibians, marsupials, etc) of all sizes from cows and zebras to dogs and ferrets. The term “medical professional(s)” is utilized to refer to any doctor, professional assistant, nurse, dentist veterinarian, remote operating system and device, clinician, forensic analyst, pathologist, diener, robot, or other person or electronic device that may perform a medical procedure or other process on a patient. It will be appreciated that operation of the nasal guide is not limited to medical professionals, as, in one embodiment, a user may self-administer or self-install the nasal guide, as well as any associated medical or other procedures. 
       FIG. 2  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide  200  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The nasal guides of  FIGS. 2-5  are shown from a plan view from which the nasal guides  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500  may be adjusted and fit into noses of any patients, such as the noses  102 ,  104 , and  106  of  FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C . The nasal guide  200  may include any number of components or elements as herein described. The potential size and shape of the nasal guide  200  are as varied as the patients that the nasal guide  200  may be used on, or the desired usage or specifications by which the nasal guide  200  is used. 
     The nasal guide  200  may alternatively a guide for any body orifice or opening (e.g., ear, mouth, rectum, etc.), passageway, or tissue plane naturally or surgically created. For example, the guide may be adapted for use with an endoscope (such as the one subsequently described) for laparoscopic abdominal surgery, orthopedic procedures, robotic surgery, or intracranial or ear surgery. The nasal guide  200  may be used when numerous medical instruments are inserted into the body. The exterior portion (i.e., the portion of the guide adapted to be outside of the body) and the interior portion (i.e., the portion of the guide adapted to be inside of the body) of the guide may be configured for the surrounding entry site whether it be the ear or rectum of the patient, a surgically-created opening through the belly button of the patient, or other openings. For example, the exterior portion of the guide may be substantially flattened to be fit or flush to the patient. In addition, the guide may have only one side, or support, instead of two (e.g., the potential two-sided configuration of the nasal guide  200 , shown in  FIG. 2 , may be for use in both nostrils). 
     In one illustrative embodiment, the nasal guide  200  is formed from hypoallergenic medical grade materials, such as U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) Class V and VI silicon, rubber, polymers, or plastic materials (or a combination thereof), including those known in the art. In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  is clear or transparent to provide the medical professional with maximum visibility of all covered and uncovered portions of the nose, whether exterior or interior to the nostrils. In one example, the nasal guide  200  may be molded from a single piece of medical grade plastic, silicon, composite, or rubber. Alternatively, multiple components of different materials may be connected or fused together. In one embodiment, the plastic is see-through, translucent, or transparent to provide the medical professional additional visibility of all portions of the nose of the patient. As a result, a light source may be connected to the nasal guide  200  so that it may act as a light guide. 
     In one embodiment, before use or application of the nasal guide  200 , the shape of the nasal guide  200  may be molded or tit to a mold or nose of the patient. For example, the nasal guide  200  may be heated in hot water and then formed to the size and shape of the nose of the patient. In another embodiment, one or more pictures, a three-dimensional image, x-ray, MRI, or other scan of the nose may be utilized to create or mold the nasal guide  200 . For example, an image may be utilized by an injection molding system to create the nasal guide  200 . 
     The nasal guide  200  may also have anti-fungal, anticoagulant, procoagulant, and/or anti-bacterial properties for preventing the spread of infections from the mouth or lips to the inside of the nose and brain. In one embodiment, the material of the nasal guide  200  may be formulated, molded, impregnated, injected, coated, or otherwise created with any of the described compounds, materials, or properties to prevent any unwanted spread of germs or infection. For example, the nasal guide  200  or an interior portion of the nasal guide  200  inserted into the nose may be coated with an anesthetic agent, such as lidocaine creme to make the nasal guide  200  more comfortable. 
     In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  includes a left support  202 , a right support  204 , a bridge  206 , upper lumens  208 , lower lumens  210 , drains  212 , and an elastic  214 . In one embodiment, the left support  202  and right support  204  (collectively the “supports”) are the supportive framework of the nasal guide  200  that prevents the nasal guide  200  from slipping into the nostrils, and in which the lumens  208 ,  210  are formed. The supports  202  and  204  may help prevent the nasal guide  200  from slipping during a medical procedure. The supports  202  and  204  may also guard covered portions of the nose from contact with objects, such as medical instrumentation. The left support  202  and right support  204  are each configured to abut, be placed against, adjacent, or proximate left and right portions of the nose and nostrils, respectively. The supports  202  and  204  may also be placed in contact with the columella, philtrum, and upper lip. In one embodiment, the supports  202  and  204  are directly coupled to one another for additional support without the need for a bridge  206 . 
     In one embodiment, the supports  202  and  204  may include lateral edges or extensions (not shown) that extend perpendicular to the general plane  213  of the supports  202  and  204  on the outer edges of the supports  202  and  204  for cradling the sides of the nose of the patient during use of the nasal guide  200  (see the lateral edges  312  of  FIG. 3  for an example). The supports  202  and  204  may also extend or include tensions to be supported by the cheeks of the patient. For example, in an embodiment of the nasal guide  200  that may be appropriate for intensive surgeries, the supports  202  and  204  may be shaped to extend out to and be braced or flattened against the cheeks of the patient. In one embodiment, the lateral edges (see  FIG. 3 ) stabilize the nasal guide  200  as medical instruments are inserted into and removed through the upper lumens  208  and lower lumens  210 . For example, the lateral edges may provide lateral stability. The lateral edges are further shown and described in  FIGS. 3 and 7-10 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , the lateral edges  312  may act as clips for gently securing the nasal guide  300  against the sides of the nostrils during utilization of the nasal guide  300 . The lateral. edges  312  may be wide enough to secure an entire or substantial portion of the side of the nostril when the nasal guide  300  is attached. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 2  in one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may include the bridge  206  which may be a connector or other element between the supports  202  and  204 . The bridge  206  may be configured so that the angle and position of the left support  202  and right support  204  may be adjusted to fit the size and shape of the nose and nostrils of the patient. The bridge  206  itself and the connection points between the bridge  206  and supports  202  and  204  may be flexible, allowing the nasal guide  200  to be positioned, flexed, or stretched as needed for the patient&#39;s nose or medical procedure. This allows the nasal guide  200  to be contoured, or otherwise fitted, to different sized and shaped noses and nostrils. As shown in the various embodiments, the bridge  206  may be placed at, or connected to, the top, middle, or bottom of the supports  202  and  204  or lateral edges or at any position therebetween. 
     In another embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may include multiple bridges for connecting the supports  202  and  204 . For example, bridges may be attached to the top and bottom of the left support  202  and right support  204  curving in the same or different directions (e.g., curving up and down respectively) to allow the bridges to be flexed or stretched as needed to fit the nose of a patient. The bridge  206  or bridges may be connected to the inside or outside edges, top, bottom, or middle of the supports  202  and  204 . 
     In one embodiment, the bridge  206  is positioned between the supports  202  and  204  and attaches to the middle of the supports  202  and  204  on the inside edges to provide maximum flexibility for moving the supports  202  and  204  toward each other and adjusting the angle of the supports to conform to the nostrils. In another embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may not include a bridge  206  and instead the supports  202  and  204  may be directly or flexibly connected to one another. The bridge  206  may be a cylindrically-shaped, rounded, or flattened connector for providing comfort or support when freely positioned away from the nose or positioned against the columella, tip, bridge, or other portion of the nose. 
     The upper lumens  208  and lower lumens  210  (collectively the “lumens”) are tubes or other passageways including openings through which the medical instruments may be inserted or communicated. Alternatively, the lumens  208  and  210  may be referred to as openings, through holes, or guides. The lumens  208  and  210  may be formed by or in the supports  202  and  204 , and may be defined by walls that extend through the plane of the supports  202  and  204  such that passageways into the nostrils are provided. In one embodiment, the lumens  208  and  210  may extend substantially perpendicular from the general plane  213  of the supports  202  and  204 . 
     In another embodiment, the walls of the lumens  208  and  210  may be short and extend inward and downward to or into the nasal passage for applying suction within the nose. For example, an interior end of the lumens  208  and  210  may have a tapered end, or open in a scoop or funnel shape for applying suction. In yet another embodiment, the walls of the lumens  208  and  210  may extend or curve upward or to a side from the supports  202  and  204  to better guide medical instruments toward a specific sinus in the nasal cavity. In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200 , and particularly the lumens  208  and  210 , may be configured to be inserted anywhere from 0-10 centimeters (e.g., 2-10 cm) or more into the nose of the patient. In another embodiment, the nasal guide  200 , and particularly the lumens  208  and  210 , may not enter the nostrils at all, and instead may be positioned near the opening of the nostrils or extend externally from the nasal guide  200 . 
     The lumens  208  and  210  including the walls thereof, may protrude past the general plane  213  of the supports  202  and  204  to both guide and stabilize medical instruments. In some cases, longer lumens  208  and  210  may simplify performing medical procedures without additional endoscopes, catheters, or instruments. For example, a greater length of the lumens  208  and  210  may better stabilize a portion of the medical instruments inserted through and positioned in the lumens  208  and  210 . In one embodiment, either end of the lumens  208  and  210  may be configured to receive inwardly extending or externally protruding extensions. The extensions may be straight or curved or have any of the other properties described for the nasal guide  200  and lumens  208  and  210 . 
     The diameter of the lumens  208  and  210  may vary based on the application. In one embodiment, the opening of the lumens  208  and  210  are between 5 mm-2.5 cm in diameter for human applications, but this may vary. In one embodiment, the size or diameter of the lumens  208  and  210  may be uniform along the length of the nasal guide. In another embodiment, the size of the lumens  208  and  210  may narrow slightly at the interior end allowing the nasal guide  200  to have a more conical or funnel shape for easy insertion of medical instruments. Additionally, the conical or funnel shape may naturally and the nostrils when inserted. 
     Also, in one embodiment, any of the openings of the lumens  208  and  210  may be flared, rounded, or tapered so that medical instruments do not catch internal or external (to the nose) edges of the lumens  208  and  210 . 
     The lumens  208  and  210  may utilize any number of symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes, such as circles, ellipses, polygons, tear drop shapes, etc. The walls may similarly define these shapes extending from the supports  202  and  204 . In another embodiment, the lumens  208  and  210  and corresponding walls may form a cylindrical, conical, or hyperbolic shape extending into the patient&#39;s nasal cavities when the nasal guide  200  is inserted as shown in  FIGS. 6-10 . In one embodiment, both ends of the lumens  208  and  210  may be flared and rounded to prevent medical instruments from catching on the openings as medical instruments are inserted and removed from the nose of the patient. In one embodiment, the openings of the lumens  208  and  210  may be at least partially covered with a flexible material and have one or more slits, slots, notches, or perforations (e.g. forming a diaphragm or membrane with an opening) for sliding the medical instruments in and out. For example, the openings of the lumens  208  and  210  may be like the lid of a cup adapted to receive a straw. The slits may support the medical instruments and event the spread of fluids or leakage of fluids. 
     In one embodiment, the lower lumens  210  may be positioned lower on the supports  202  and  204  for use in applying suction through the nasal guide  200 . For example, during a medical procedure, mucus, blood, or other fluids may pool against the supports  202  and  204  of the nasal guide  200 . The lower lumens  210  may be postponed to suction out these fluids. In one embodiment, the lower lumens  210  may be short to allow the fluids to flow out of the nasal guide  200  through the lower lumens  210 . In another embodiment, inwardly-extending walls of the lower lumens  210  may extend straight or at an angle to be proximate or touch a bottom portion of the nasal cavity where fluids are most likely to collect. The inwardly-extending walls may also extend at an angle to a general plane  213  of the supports  202  and  204 . 
     In another embodiment, one or both of the lumens  208  and  210  may also extend outwardly from the nostrils and define ports for applying or attaching traditional oxygen or suction fittings, adapters, systems, or devices, such as an oxygen system (e.g., through a nasal cannula), or tubes. Alternatively, the interior or exterior portions of the lumens  208  and  210  may be configured to receive adapters (not shown) for attaching suction or oxygen through the nasal guide  200  or extending the reach or direction of the lumens  208  and  210 . The shape and configuration of the adapters may also vary. For example, the adapters may be funnel shaped for receiving medical instruments. Alternatively, the adapter may include a 90° bend for reaching a particular sinus. 
     In one embodiment, the adapters may be inserted into the lumens  208  and  210  and may remain in place due to tight tolerances and friction between the lumens  208  and  210  and adapters, or provide an interference fit. In another embodiment, the lumens  208  and  210  and adapter may include threads, barbed connectors, or locking tabs allowing the adapter to be screwed into the nasal guide  200 . For example, immediately after a medical procedure is performed, oxygen and/or suction may be attached to the nasal guide without using other instruments. As a result, time and resources may be saved without further inconveniencing the patent by adding and removing additional components. The lumens  208  and  210  may then act as nozzles for delivering oxygen or for coupling suction ends to apply suction to the nasal cavity of the patient. Oxygen or suction may also be applied to the lumens  208  or  210  during a medical procedure as needed. For example, the oxygen may be applied during the procedure to keep the interior of the nose dryer. In one embodiment, the interior end of the lumens  210  may be formed in the shape of a scoop that fits within the nasal passage to channel any blood, mucous, or fluids through the lumens  210  for removal. The scoop end of the openings on the internal side of the nasal guide may be wide enough to fit along the entire width of the bottom and sides of the nasal passage to channel the fluids through the lumens  210 . 
     In one embodiment, the lumens  208  and  210  may not extend past the general plane  213  of the supports  202  and  204 . Instead, the lumens  208  and  210  may extend away from the nose and nostrils of the patient hen positioned on the patient. As a result, the lumens  208  and  210  may not irritate the patient&#39;s nasal cavity. Exterior lumens may similarly stabilize and guide medical instruments to the correct position. Alternatively, a combination of internally and externally lumens  208  and  210  may be utilized. For example, the nasal guide  200  may include additional guides, rings, or other supports for supporting a portable endoscope as is subsequently described. In one embodiment, the lumens  208  and  210  may be dilated, collapse, or include a circularly folding structure for adjusting the diameter of each lumen. As a result, the size of the lumens  208  and  210 , or other components of the nasal guide  200  may be customized for the patient. 
     In another embodiment, the nasal guide  200 , the supports  202  and  204 , and the lumens  206  and  208  may be cut down or sized to fit the patient. In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  m include perforations (or thinner or weaker areas) for cutting or break away sections of any portion of the nasal guide for customization for the patient. The nasal guide  200  may also include markings, such as metric or English unit measurements, for properly sizing and utilizing the nasal guide  200 . Such markings may be inscribed, molded, etched, printed, or otherwise included on the nasal guide  200 . 
     In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may include drains  212 . The drains  212  may be one or more openings, slits, or notches through a portion of the nasal guide that allows fluid to pass through, below, or around the nasal guide  200 . The drains  212  may allow fluids to bypass the nasal guide  200  to be dealt with in any number of ways. The drains  212  may utilize any number of shapes or configurations. In one embodiment, the drains  212  limy be semi-circular, rectangular, or square shaped. In another embodiment, the drains  212  may be a single cut-away portion of the supports  202  and  204  allowing the fluids to flow under the supports  202  and  204  For example, the fluids may be soaked up by gauze or suctioned by the medical professional once past the supports  202  and  204  of the nasal guide  200 . 
     In one embodiment, the supports  202  and  204  may include a clip, or other attachment mechanism, for attaching gauze in such a way that the gauze absorbs the fluid that passes through the drains  212  without interfering with insertion or removal of medical instruments through the lumens  208  and  210 . The clip may also be utilized to attach to the end of a suction device. The clip may extend from any surface or edge of the supports  202  and  204 . 
     The nasal guide  200  may include headgear or other securing component, device, or mechanism. In one embodiment, the headgear is the elastic  214 . The elastic  214  is a fastener usable to secure or stabilize the nasal guide  200  during use. In one embodiment, the elastic  214  is an elastomer or other stretchable material that may be utilized to secure the nasal guide  200  about the head, ears, personal or medical accessories (i.e., glasses), or neck of the patient. The elastic  214  may, attach to the supports  202  and  204  or the lateral edges of the supports  202  and  204 . The elastic  214  may be one or more narrow or wide bands. The wider band may provide additional surface area and more comfort to the user. For example, the elastic  214  may be neoprene straps that are secured around the neck or head of the patient utilizing a hook and loop strap, barbed connector, Velcro, buckle, or other known securing mechanism on either end of the neoprene straps. In one embodiment, the headgear may be attached to and removed from the nasal guide for repeated use. The headgear may be configured to be washed or otherwise sanitized as needed. 
     In one embodiment, the elastic  214  is formed of or covered by a cloth material for the comfort of the patient. The elastic  214  may have a high elastane content for adjusting to the size and shape of the applicable portion of the patient (e.g., head, neck, or ears), including adults or children. As with other elastics, a portion of the elastic  214  may be pulled through holes of the supports  202  and  204  (or lateral edges of the supports  202  and  204 ) to tighten the fit of the nasal guide when worn by the patient. Alternatively, a belt strap-type configuration may be utilized for the elastic  214 . Any number of adjustment mechanisms or components may be utilized with the elastic  214  or other securing mechanism to properly fit the nasal guide  200  to the patient. Skin glue, tape, or other similar components may be utilized in a stand-alone configuration or with the elastic  214  to secure the nasal guide  200 . 
     In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may include a single support, such as the support  202 , and no bridge  206 . The elastic  214  may be attached to either or both sides of the support  202  and may be used for situations where the medical professional(s) only needs access through the nostril on one side, or any single opening on the patient&#39;s body. Alternatively, the nasal guide  200  may be moved between nostrils to save materials and expense of manufacturing. In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may be used a single time before being disposed. The nasal guide  200  may also be configured for repeated use, including repeated use after sterilization. For example, the nasal guide  200  may be run through and sanitized by an autoclave Without being ruined or altered. The single support size of the guide may also be utilized for other natural or surgically-created orifices or body parts. For example, the support  202  may conform to the shape of an ear, buttocks, incision in the abdomen, and so forth. 
     In one embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may include differently-sized or shaped supports  202  and  204  that may be linked b the bridge  206  such that the support  202  has a different size or shape than the support  204 . For example, a patient with an irregular nose or nasal valve collapse may require that the supports  202  and  204  and/or lumens  208  and  210  be differently sized or shaped for each size or shape of the nose. In one embodiment, the bridge  206  or supports  202  and  204  may be separately created (e.g. molded), clipped, or otherwise attached to one another to be customized for the patient. 
     In another embodiment, the supports  202  and  204 , lumens  208  and  210  (whether single openings or multiple openings are utilized), and corresponding framework or walls may be referred to as nozzles. 
     In another embodiment, the nasal guide  200  may include interchangeable components that allow a medical professional to customize or assemble the nasal guide  200  for each patient. For example, the supports  202  and  204  and bridge  206  may be the framework or support structure of the nasal guide  200  that may be selected. The supports  202  and  204  may be configured to receive a lumen module (not shown). The lumen module may a fitting adapted to be connected to each of the supports and includes one or more lumen. In one embodiment, the lumen module may be conically shaped for expanding each nostril as is described herein. In one example, the lumen module may include three 2 mm lumens for receiving multiple instruments. The number or lumens  208  and  210  utilized in the nasal guide  200  is not limited, but may be between 1-6. In another example, the lumen. module may include one 8 mm lumen or two 4 mm lumens. The lumen module may be attached or removed from each of the supports  202  and  204 . As a result, the nasal guide  200  may be utilized repeatedly by assembling the distinct parts for each patient. In one embodiment, the medical professional may include various sizes and configurations for each of the components of the nasal guide  200  for adapting the nasal guide  200  for each individual patient and medical procedure. 
       FIG. 3  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide  300  in accordance with another illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide  300  of  FIG. 3  may include a left support  302 , a right support  304 , bridge  306 , lumens  308 , lateral edges  312 , and an elastic  314 . 
     In this embodiment, the supports  302  and  304  are oval shaped to more closely fit the size and shape of certain nostrils and noses. For example, the supports  302  and  304  may be positioned to abut against the bottom portion of the noses with the lumens  308  extending into the nostrils and toward the nasal cavities. As shown in  FIG. 3 , each of the supports  302  and  304  forms a respective lumen  308  for receiving one or more medical instruments. In one embodiment, the lumens  308  are larger for receiving a larger single instrument or multiple instruments at once. 
     In the nasal guide  300 , the bridge  306  may be shaped differently for various functions. In this embodiment, the bridge  306  is configured to support, surround, or cup the tip of the nose of the patient. For example, the bridge  306  may be shaped to extend along the bottom of the nose of the patient with a portion of the bridge  306  being substantially rounded or bent to conform to the typical rounded shape of the tip of a patient&#39;s nose. 
     The nasal guide  300  may also include lateral edges  312 . The lateral edges  312  are stabilizers configured to support or abut the lateral, or side, edges of the nose to provide external alignment with the nostrils. The lateral edges  312  may extend substantially perpendicularly from the surface or general plane  313  of the supports  302  and  304 , and may also extend toward the face of the patient when the nasal guide  300  is in use. The lateral edges  312  may further stabilize the nasal guide  300  during use and performance of a medical procedure. In one embodiment, the lateral edges  312  may be elongated semicircles. In another embodiment, the lateral edges  312  may be small arms, tabs, clips, or extensions that are shaped as a square, rectangular, or elliptical. The lateral edges  312  and other portions of the nasal guide  300  may be added or include an additional material to make the nasal guide  300  more comfortable when positioned against the skin. 
     In one embodiment, the lateral edges  312  may help secure the nasal guide by holding, or abutting against the outside of the nose while the lumens  308  abut against the inside of the nose, For example, the lateral edges  312  and outer walls of the lumens  308  may act as a clip securing the nasal guide  300  to the inside and outside of the edges of the nostrils. 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic, plan view representation of a nasal guide  400  in accordance with another illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide  400  includes upper lumens  408  and lower lumen s  410  that are differently sized for receiving medical instruments. The size and shape of the upper lumens  408  and lower lumens  410  may depend on the type of medical procedure being performed and the medical instruments involved. The upper lumens  408  and the lower lumens  410  may be positioned horizontally (side-by-side), diagonally, or in any other position with respect to one another. 
     The nasal guide  400  includes a bridge  406  that s also configured as a clip. The bridge  406  may be biased to push the supports  402  and  404  toward each other and secure the nasal guide  400  on, within, and to the nose of the patient. In another embodiment, the bridge  406  may be biased to push the supports  402  and  404  away from each other to further expand the nostrils of the patient while still securing the nasal guide  400 . The bridge  406  may secure the nasal guide  400  without the need For elastic or other securing mechanisms. The bridge  406  may be integrated with or attach to the lateral edges  412  or directly to the supports  402  and  404 . In one embodiment, the bridge  406  is substantially within the general plane  414  of the supports  402  and  404 . The bridge  406  may also be angled such that the top of the bridge  406  extends in front of or behind the supports  402  and  404  (e.g., outward or inward with respect to the user&#39;s face when the nasal guide  400  is positioned on the user). In another embodiment, the bridge  406  may connect to the lateral edges  412  and extend away from the general plane  414  of the supports  402  and  404  above the bridge of the nose. 
     In one embodiment, the bridge  406  may be sized and shaped such that the bridge  406  does not touch the nose of the patient. In another embodiment, the bridge  406  may abut the outside edge of the nose of the patent to provide another point of contact tor stabilizing the nasal guide. In one embodiment, the bridge  406  may include a shield, or blinders, clips, or attachments for such components, to prevent the patient from seeing the insertion and removal of the medical instruments. For nervous, fearful, or scared patients that are awake, blocking the sight of the patient may help the patient to not focus on what may be seen. In addition, the tactile sensation of the nasal guide  400  n help the patient not focus on the medical procedure being performed. The interior and exterior of the nose includes a large number of nerves. The sensation of the nasal guide being inserted and worn may distract the user from more significant pain or sensations that results from performance of the medical procedure. 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide  500  in accordance with another illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide  500  further illustrates a bridge  506  positioned at a middle or bottom portion of the supports  502  and  504 . The positioning and interconnection of the bridge  506  and elastic  514  may be configured to best fit different sizes and shapes of noses. Drains  512  may be shaped as a single opening for allowing the fluid to flow past the supports  502  and  504 . For example, the drains  512  may be rounded in the form of a semi-circle for the comfort of the user. 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective pictorial representation of the nasal guide  300  of  FIG. 3  applied to a patient  601  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide  300  of  FIG. 6  illustrates utilization of the nasal guide  300  on a nose  602  of a patient  601 . The lateral edges  312  wrap around the edge of the nose  602  to further secure the nasal guide  300  from horizontal motion during the medical procedure. 
     The bridge  306  may cup or support the tip of the nose  602  to provide vertical support. The bridge  306  may also wrap around the entire tip of the nose  602  to further secure the nasal guide  300  from vertical motion during the medical procedure. In other embodiments, the bridge  306  may be flattened or rounded to abut against the bottom of the nose  602  when the nasal guide  300  is positioned. In yet another embodiment, the bridge  306  may extend back or up from the supports  302  and  304  toward the eyes of the patient  601 . In such a configuration, the nasal guide  300  may sit along a top  604  or bridge of the nose  602 . 
       FIG. 7  is a schematic, side view of the nasal guide  300  of  FIG. 3  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.  FIG. 7  further illustrates a potential shape and configuration of the nasal guide  300  for adding additional horizontal and vertical stability. The support  302 , bridge  306 , and lateral edge  312  stabilize the nasal guide  300  vertically and horizontally. In addition, the lumens  308  are shaped to extend inward from the supports  302  and  304 . Although not shown, the nasal guide  300  may include both supports  302  and  304  from which the lumens  308  extend. 
     In one embodiment, the lumen  308  is conically-shaped and extends into the nasal cava, of the patient  601  during use. The cone or edge shape of the lumens  308  that extend ds from the openings the supports  302  and  304  may be useful for naturally expanding the nostrils of the patient  601  as the nasal guide  300  is inserted and the pulled towards the face of the patient  601  by the elastic  314 . The cone share of the lumens  308  facilitates natural expansion of the nostrils without causing the patient  601  pain. As a result, the medical instruments may be more easily inserted and removed from the nose  602 . The lumens  308  may include a solid surface ensuring that medical Instruments do not catch or snag during insertion or extraction through the nasal guide  300 . In another embodiment, the lumens  308  may have a spaced surface for saving material. For example, a honeycomb or triangular support framework may support the one or more lumens  308  that are part of the nasal guide  300 . 
     In one embodiment, the lumens  308  may curve slightly upward to better guide medical instruments to the sinuses and nasal cavity. For example, the supports  302  and  304  may sit flat against the bottom of the nostrils and the curved shape of the lumens  308  may better guide medical instruments. In one embodiment, the interior surface of the lumens  308  may also include ridges (not shown) that run parallel to the nasal cavity for better guiding the medical instruments. The ridges may be flexible for providing additional support to the medical instruments whole still allowing the medical instruments to be maneuvered and moved as needed. In another embodiment, the interior portion. of the lumens  308  may include flexible extensions protuberances, or arms (no, shown) that further stabilize the medical instruments while providing a small amount of friction or tactile feedback to the medical professional. The flexible protuberances may be configured to give way and bend when the medical professional moves the medical instruments, but also provide support while the medical instruments are in use. The flexibility, diameter, length, proximity, and number of protuberances may vary based on the amount of resistance that is desired. As a result, motion of the medical instruments is slightly opposed to provide enhanced stability and smoothness to the movements of the medical instruments. 
     The lumens  308  may utilize a solid conical shape. The solid lumens  308  prevent the medical instruments from catching on the lumens  308  when inserted acid removed from the nasal guide  300 . The ends of the lumens  308  at the interior and exterior openings may flare or taper outward so that the medical instruments do not catch on the edges of the lumens  308  during use. Alternatively, the lumens  308  and other portions of the nasal guide  316  may include cut-outs or integrated spaces for conserving the material utilized to form the nasal guide  300  when molded or assembled. The spaces may also provide additional flexibility to all or portions of the nasal guide  300 . As a result, the nasal guide  300  may be deformed while being positioned on the patient  601  to best fit the nose  602  of the patient  601 . 
     In one embodiment, the nasal guide  300  may be injection molded from a single piece of material in default or custom sizes and configurations. For example, the openings and overall size of the nasal guide  300  may be created to specifically fit the nose  602  of the patient  601  based on a picture or scan. The picture or scan may be digitized and utilized to properly size the nasal guide  300 . In another embodiment, the different portions of the nasal guide  300  may be formed from different materials. For example, the lateral edges  312  may be formed of a more flexible material (e.g., plastic, latex etc) for adjusting to the size and shape of the nose  602  of the patient  601 . The bridge  306  may be formed of a stiffer form of plastic for providing additional support. 
       FIG. 8  is a schematic, side-view of a nasal guide  800  in accordance with another illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide  800  includes multiple openings at ends of the lumens  802  and  804  instead of a single opening. The nasal guide  800  may include additional supports  806  between the lumens  802  and  804  and the supports  302  (and  304  not shown) of the nasal guide  800 . The framework of the nasal guide  300  including the additional supports  806  may prevent deformation of the nasal guide  800  and the lumens  802  and  804  during insertion an removal of medical instruments. For example, the additional supports  806  may provide a framework enclosing the lumens  802  and  804  within a conical shape. In another embodiment, the supports  806  may enclose the lumens  802  and  804  with a cylindrical shape. The nasal guide  800  may clip to the nostrils of the nose  602  of the patient  601  with the lateral edges of the nostrils being secured between the lateral edges  808  and the supports  806  (or alternatively between the lateral edges  808  and the lumens  802  and  804 ). 
       FIG. 9  is a schematic, side-view of a nasal guide  900  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide  900  may include multiple openings with walls or supports defining the lumens  902  and  904  that extend inward to a nasal cavity of a patient. In one embodiment, the lumens  902  and  904  may be defined separately and extend from the supports  302  (and  304  not shown) of the nasal guide  900 . The lumens  902  and  904  may have a gap, or notch, between them. 
       FIG. 10  is a schematic, side-view of the nasal guide  300  being utilized on a patient  601  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the nasal guide  300  may be utilized to protect the nose  602  of the patient  601  during a medical procedure, such as balloon sinuplasty. The bridge  306  may touch the nose  602  of the patient  601  during use. The lateral edges  312  may abut the lateral edges of the nostrils to provide lateral support. 
       FIG. 11  is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a nasal guide in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process of  FIG. 11  may be implemented by a medical professional, or any other person, utilizing a nasal guide on a patient as is illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 10 . 
     The process may begin with the medical professional positioning a nasal guide within nostrils of a patient (step  1102 ). In one embodiment, only the lumens (and supporting framework) of the nasal guide are inserted into the nostrils extending to the nasal cavity of the patient. The medical professional may select the nasal guide based on the size and shape of the nose of the patient. For example, the selected nasal guide may be substantially smaller for a child. The nasal guide may also be selected based on the size an shape of the medical instruments that are utilized in performing the procedure. For example, a light source and an endoscope with a balloon may need to be inserted into the nostrils simultaneously. As a result, the medical professional may select a nasal guide with two lumens. In another embodiment, the guide is configured to receive a wired or portable endoscope or other medical instrument through naturally surgically-created openings, including, but not limited to, laparoscopic, a dominant, pelvic, chest, head, neck, intracranial, ear, extremity, cardiac or vascular procedures or diagnostic evaluations. 
     In another embodiment, the nasal guide may be created, customized, molded, or manufactured to meet the size and shape of a particular patient&#39;s nose. In addition, the medical professional may select nasal guide attachments that may be attached to the nasal guide to apply suction and/or oxygen to the patient before, during, or after the medical procedure. The nasal guide may also be configured to act as a wave guide, be illuminated, or glow in the dark. For example, a light source, when shined into the nasal guide, may light up the interior and exterior portions of the nasal guide. 
     In one embodiment, the portion of the nasal guide that is inserted within the nostril(s) may have a conical shape for enlarging the nostrils as the nasal guide is drawn into the nostril(s) of the patient by a securing mechanisms, such as an elastic fastened around the neck or head of the patient. The elastic or securing band may gently open the nostrils providing easier access to the nasal cavities and sinuses. 
     Next, the medical professional secures the nasal guide to the patient (stein  1104 ). As previously described, the nasal guide may be secured in any number of ways including elastics, headgear, straps, clips, adhesives, draped configurations, and so forth. The nasal guide may be adjustable (e.g., tightening bands Velcro, securing holes, etc.) and may be secured to any portion of the body, clothes, or accessories of the patient, such as any portion of the head, neck, or ears. The nasal guide may also be connected to protective glasses. In one embodiment, the securing portion of the nasal guide is draped around the ears of a patient similar to a nasal cannula. 
     Next, the medical professional inserts one or more medical instruments through the nasal guide to perform a procedure ( 1106 ). The medical instruments may be inserted into and retracted from the nostrils and nasal passage any number of times. The nasal guide guides the medical instruments into the nasal passage during insertion. In one example detailing use of the nasal guide, a single medical professional rather than multiple medical professionals may perform a medical procedure. The nasal guide may be utilized to ensure that the medical instruments are positioned correctly to prevent abrasion, stabbing, or scraping the bone or tissue within the nasal passages or the interior and exterior of the nostrils. In addition, the nasal guide stabilizes the instruments in the nose to allow for ease of manipulation during the procedures especially if the patient moves or sneezes. 
     In one embodiment, the medical professional may apply suction or oxygen through the nasal guide (step  1108 ). The nasal guide may be utilized to provide suction or oxygen before, during, or after the procedure. For example, the nasal guide may be configured for simultaneously performing the medical procedure through a first lumens as well as applying suction or oxygen through a second lumen or through a separate side of the nasal guide. An attachment or insert may be built-in, inserted, or attached to the nasal guide to apply suction or oxygen for the patient. In one example, one or more adapters may be inserted or screwed into the openings of the lumens to provide suction or oxygen to the patient. Application of suction or oxygen through the nasal guide provides flexibility for rapidly-developing situations. For example, immediately after a surgery a patient may need to receive oxygen to stimulate recovery. As a result, the nasal guide may serve a dual-purpose. In addition, the nasal guide may be utilized to secure oxygen or apply suction for patients that are seizing, moving, or otherwise unable to receive oxygen or suction through traditional means. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 12, 13 and 15 , a schematic, pictorial representation of a portable endoscope  1200  is shown in accordance with illustrative embodiments. An endoscope is an instrument that may be introduced into the body of an individual or patient to give a view of internal parts. The portable endoscope  1200  may be utilized in very small spaces and is easier to use than existing endoscopes. Existing endoscopes are generally bulky and not ergonomically shaped and nay require two or more medical professionals to operate effectively (e.g., a doctor and nurse). In one embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  is a wireless scope that is condensed into a reduced footprint or size. The portable endoscope  1200  may be utilized by a single user or positioned a single time or as needed with un a nasal guide to free up hands of the medical professional. 
     The portable endoscope  1200  may be cleaned for repeated use or may be a disposable one-time use portable endoscope  1200 . The portable endoscope  1200  may be a wand or cylindrical-shape for easy handling by a medical professional. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope has a diameter or cross-sectional measurement of between 1 mm to 5 mm, although the diameter limy vary widely depending on the particular application. 
     The portable endoscope  1200  may be a stand-alone device or may be utilized or integrated with the nasal guide as herein described. For example, the portable endoscope  1200  may be built into one or more of the lumens of the nasal guide. The portable endoscope  1200  may also be attached to or inserted into the nasal guide. 
     As shown in the schematic trout views of  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the portable endoscope  1200  may be shaped as a circle, oval, ellipse, or a rounded triangle shape. The portable endoscope  1200  may be utilized for any number of medical or non-medical procedures or examinations that are known in the art. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  is configured to be received by an opening, lumen, or port of the nasal guide as herein described. The portable endoscope  1200  may be inserted to a required depth and positioned to display a video image to the medical professional. In one embodiment, friction, tight tolerances, or interference fittings of the opening and external dimensions of the portable endoscope  1200  may be utilized to secure the portable endoscope  1200  in the nasal guide. In all alternative embodiment, the nasal guide may include a positioning motor for moving the portable endoscope  1200  in and out, rotating the portable endoscope  1200 , or otherwise positioning the portable endoscope  1200  within the examined space. The same may be performed for a camera  1202  without moving the remainder of the portable endoscope. 
     In one embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  may include the camera  1202 , a light  1204 , a transceiver  1206 , a battery  1208 , and a switch  1210 . The portable endoscope  1200  may be enclosed in a case  1201 . In one embodiment, the case  1201  is a waterproof framework completely sealing in and securing the components of the portable endoscope  1200 . The case  1201  may include any number of seals and watertight connections ensuring that the portable endoscope  1200  may be utilized multiple times without damage from fluids. For example, the case  1201  may be formed entirely of metal, polymer, plastic, or glass. In another embodiment, different components and materials may be fused together. For example, the main body of the case  1201  may be formed of stainless steel with a glass end or lens (not shown) for the light  1204  to shine through and the camera  1202  to retrieve video images. 
     In one embodiment, the case  1201  includes the contacts, interfaces, wires, or busses for each of the internal electrical components. For example, the camera  1202  and/or light  1204  may contact a video bus integrated within the frame for transmitting the video signal to the transceiver  1206  for transmission. The light  1204  may also include an interface for communicating video signals from the camera  1204  to the case  1201  or directly to the transceiver  1206 . In one embodiment, the bus for sending and receiving video or commands may be insulated or the case  1201  may include a designated space ensuring that none of the components contact the bus. Likewise, a wire or power conduit integrated within the case  1201  may communicate an electrical signal from the battery  1208  to the transceiver  1206 , light  1204 , and/or camera  1202 . Alternatively, the electrical components may be serially connected in the positioned order for both powering the components and communicating video signal (and command signals as needed). 
     A first end  1203  of the case  1201  may include or be formed of a lens or transparent plastic cover focusing or allowing light to be acquired as video content by the camera  1202 . Any number of lenses may be utilized depending on the medical procedure being performed. For example, the lens may be a simple convex, biconvex plano-convex, positive meniscus, negative meniscus, plano-concave, macro, zoom, apochromat, process, fisheye, stereoscopic, infrared, ultraviolet, swivel, biconcave, etc. lens. The lens may also be selected to prevent fluids from accumulating on the camera  1202  and light  1204  blocking the view of the relevant site. 
     In one embodiment, the camera  1202  is a condensed digital video camera configured for wirelessly communicating the video content through the transceiver  1206 . The camera  1202  may be configured to capture video in response to the output of the light  1204 , which may broadcast visible light, specific spectrums, infrared, ultrasound, ultra violet, x-ray, gamma ray, or other electromagnetic or non-electromagnetic imaging. In one embodiment, the light  1204  may be a fiber optic light that is powered by external sources. Any kind of digital or fiberoptic imaging or viewing device may be used. In one embodiment, the camera  1202  is a charge coupled device (CCD) camera, such as a CMOS camera composed of multiple stacked and interconnected semiconductor layers. The camera  1202  may be configured or selected to correspond to, pick-up, or capture the type of light  1204  inserted or installed in the portable endoscope  1200 . The camera  1202  may be manually or remotely controllable. For example, the camera  1202  may include a swivel lens that rotates to give unique perspectives and camera angles. The lens or camera  1202  may be configured to protrude from or extend from the portable endoscope  1200 . In another embodiment, the camera  1202  may be a fiber optic camera. 
     The camera  1202  may utilize any number of electronic or even vibrational spectra for chemical analysis, oximetry, disease classification and molecular microscopy. For example, the camera  1202  may also be configured to include features of a microscope. In addition, diffuse reflection, fluorescence reflectance (fluorescence spectroscopy), Raman reflectance (Raman spectroscopy), and absorption may be observed, measured, or recorded by the camera  1202 . The available or desired wavelength or spectrum may affect the light  1204  and camera  1202  selected for the portable endoscope  1200 . The camera  1202  may be configured to produce 1-D spatial information utilizing a single wavelength or spectrum, 2-D spatial information utilizing wide-field spectroscopy/hyperspectral imaging, and 3-D spatial information utilizing tomography. The camera  1202  may be selected for a particular light  1204  or based on characteristics of the camera  1202  or generated video signal including resolution, intensity, frame rate, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), peak SNR, noise immunity, timing, scanning, and so forth. 
     The video captured by the video camera may be transmitted directly or indirectly to the wireless device  1212  or computing device  1214 . For example, the portable endoscope  1200  may communicate with the computing device  1214  through a network  1216 . The network  1216  may utilize a communication standard, such as 802.11_ (e.g., 802.11n) as the standard continues to be updated. The direct or indirect communications may represent Bluetooth, ZigBee, WiFi, wireless local area network (WLAN), WiMAX, proprietary standards, or other radio frequency signals whether analog or digital that may be utilized to communicate a video signal. Any number of FCC, FDA, IEEE, ISO, CEN, ETSI, ARIB, ANSI, or IEC approved communications protocols or standards may also be transmitted by the transceiver  1206 . Indeed, the types of wireless or wired standards or methods of communication are numerous. 
     The video signal may be received and displayed by the wireless device  1212  and/or computing device  1214  in real-time. The video signal may be formatted before or after being sent from the portable endoscope  1200 . In one embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  may include a processor, ASIC, FPGA, and/or other logic for man the portable endoscope  1200  processing the video signals. The video may be compressed in a raw or formatted state for communication by the transceiver  1206 . For example, the video content may be packetized and communicated with or without encryption. Error detection and known packet analysis, processing, decryption, and other similar steps may be performed by a receiving device. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  may include a memory for storing the video content for subsequent analysis, review, documentation, training, or educational purposes. Alternatively, the video may be recorded by the wireless device  1212  or computing device  1214  for the same reasons. The wireless device  1212  and computing device  1214  may also act as a server to deliver or save content to any number of other client devices, systems, equipment, streaming configurations, or databases. 
     In another embodiment, a cable or wire may be utilized to communicate the video directly to the wireless device  1212 , computing device  1214 , or to an external transceiver that is not integrated with the case  1201  of the portable endoscope. (see, e.g.,  FIG. 16  below). The same cable may also be utilized to power the portable endoscope  1200  from a remote location further reducing the required size of the portable endoscope  1200 . For example, a USB cable (e.g., standard, mini, micro, etc.) connected to the portable endoscope  1200  and wireless device  1212  may both power the portable endoscope  1200  and communicate video to the wireless device  1212 . 
     A second end  1205  of the case  1201  may be removable for inserting or removing the components of the portable endoscope  1200 . For example, the second end  1205  of the case  1201  may snap in, interconnect, latch, or include threads for securing the components of the case  1201 . The portable endoscope  1200  may communicate with the wireless device  1212  or the computing device  1214 . 
     In one embodiment, the components of the portable endoscope  1200  may be interchangeable. For example, even the relative positioning of components, such as the transceiver  1206  and battery  1208 , may be varied. For example, the transceiver  1206  may more efficiently transmit and receive signals when positioned at the second end  1205  of the portable endoscope  1200  where the battery  1208  is shown. As a result, the portable endoscope  1200  may be configured for each patient or medical professional. For example, different cameras or batteries may be inserted into the case  1201  for different situations. In one embodiment, the video camera  1202  may be an infrared camera or spectrum-specific camera configured to view blood flow (or the lack thereof) within the nose. In another embodiment, the components of the portable endoscope  1200  are permanently connected. 
     In one embodiment, the components of the portable endoscope  1200  are powered by the battery  1208 . The battery  1208  may be a high-powered energy storage device. For example, the battery  1208  may be a rechargeable or one-time use polymer battery, alkaline, zinc-air battery, lithium ion battery, thin film battery, ultrcapacitor, fuel cell, piezo electric generator, or other capacitors or batteries being developed and known in the art. The sortable endoscope  1200  may be utilized repeatedly by replacing the battery  1208  as needed. 
     In another embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  may include a port (not shown) for recharging the battery  1208  without removing the battery  1208  frons the case  1201 . Similarly, the portable endoscope  1200  may be configured to function in a wireless or wired state. For example, the portable endoscope  1200  may be connected directly to the computing device  1214  utilizing a cable, bus, wire, or connector, such as a micro-USB to USB connector for communicating video content. Additionally, the portable endoscope  1200  may not include the battery  1208  and instead may be powered and display video content through the wireless device  1212  or computing device  1214 . For example, if the medical professional utilizes the wireless features of the portable endoscope draining the battery  1208 , the portable endoscope  1200  may connected to the computing device  1214  for the additional power requirements while simultaneously charging the battery  1208  for subsequent wireless usage. In another embodiment, the portable endoscope  1200  may be capable of being directly charged by, e.g., a wall outlet or other stationary or semi-stationary form of power supply. 
     In one embodiment, the camera  1202 , light  1204 , transceiver  1206 , and battery  1208  may be interconnected by magnetic leads (not shown). The magnetic leads may automatically align and attach the components when placed in proximity to one another. The magnetic leads may include contacts for power, logic, or command signals, as well as video communications between each component. In another embodiment, leads, wires, contacts, or connectors may be built into the case  1201  for communicating power, video, control signals, or other signals between the camera  1202 , transceiver  1206 , and battery  1208  which may also include contacts or leads for interfacing with the case  1201 . In another embodiment, the camera  1202 , transceiver  1206 , and battery  1208 , and other described components may communicate signals utilizing ports, contacts, adapters, or male and female connectors. For example, the connectors may be a reduced size version of a mini-DIN, S-video, DVI, USB, coaxial, or HDMI connectors (micro video connectors). For example, the connectors may have a footprint of 0.25 mm-1 cm (diameter, area, length, etc), however, larger and smaller footprints are also possible. In addition, the diameter of the portable endoscope  1200  may vary between 0.1 mm and 1.5 cm with other sizes being produced for different applications. 
     The components of the portable endoscope  1200  may include longitudinal or lateral ridges, notches, or other alignment structures for properly aligning a component, such as the light  1204  and camera  1202  within the transceiver  1206  and battery  1208 . For example, a ridge (not shown) along the top of the cylindrically-shaped camera  1202  may prevent the camera  1202  from being inserted in the light  1204  except when in the proper alignment. Similar ridges may be included on the light  1204 , transceiver  1206 , battery  1208 , and logic if present. A corresponding notch or ridge on the case  1201  may align the components. 
     In another embodiment, portions or components of the portable endoscope  1200  may be separated by flexible connectors (not shown) (e.g., centipede configuration) that allow distinct components or portions of the portable endoscope  1200  to be individually angled and positioned. For example, wired connectors between each component of the portable endoscope  1200 , such as a bus configured to communicate video signals and power, may enhance flexibility. For example, the light  1204  and camera  1202  portion of the portable endoscope  1200  may be angled a particular direction, relative to the remainder of the portable endoscope  1200 , before insertion into the nose to view a selected sinus. The separated flexible portions of the portable endoscope  1200  may be manually adjusted or controlled by one or more servos. In one example, a mechanical pivot that provides resistive adjustments may be twisted to achieve the desired configuration of the portable endoscope. For example, a graphical user interface accessible through the computing device  1214  may be utilized to receive user selections or commands to pivot or rotate the portion of the portable endoscope  1200  including the camera  1202  and light  1204 . 
     The electrical components of the portable endoscope  1200  may be manufactured utilizing processes for plastic, organic, and inorganic semiconductors, substrates, electronics, and logic. For example, the light  1204 , transceiver  1206  battery  1208  may include flexible plastic-based substrates that function with printable conductive inks, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) layers and materials, and/or active-matrix thin-film-transistor arrays. Multilayer composite structures may be utilized to create and manufacture the portable endoscope  1200 . For example, roll-to-roll processing with inkjet printing or spray deposition may be utilized to produce the flexible and reduced footprint components of the portable endoscope  1200 . In one embodiment, the entire portable endoscope  1200  may be configured to flex to be moved and positioned to the correct location. Magnetic coupling, wires, and MEMs connections may be utilized to bend and flex the portable endoscope  1200 . 
       FIG. 13  is a schematic, side-view of a light  1204  and camera  1202  in accordance with illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the camera  1202  is cylindrically shaped and s inserted or partially encased in the light  1204 . The light  1204  may be doughnut, or annular, shaped and configured to receive the camera  1202 . During assembly of the various parts, the light  1204  and camera  1202  may be changed out as has previously been described. 
     In another embodiment, the camera  1202  and light  1204  may both be stacked or placed side by side. Alternatively, the camera  1202  and/or light  1204  may utilize, different shapes, such as an ellipse, semi-circle, square, rectangle, or oval. 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  are schematic front views of the portable endoscope  1200  in accordance with illustrative embodiments.  FIG. 14  illustrates the portable endoscope  1220  shaped as an oval. The light  1204  may be formed from boomerang-shaped lights. The light  1204  may emit a single spectrum of light or distinct spectra depending on the needs of the medical professional. For example, an upper portion  1206  of the light may be a miniaturized halogen light configured to emit a bright white light and the lower portion  1208  of the light may be an infrared LED that may be activated as needed. In one embodiment, the light  1204  and camera  1202  may directly abut each other. In another embodiment, number of spacers or separators may be built into the case  1201 , camera  1202 , or light  1204  to correctly position the various components. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates the portable endoscope  1200  of  FIG. 13  with a camera  1202  and a surrounding light  1204 . The light  1204  may be a single light or may be composed of multiple lights that transmit light or signals at different frequencies or intensities. For example, different lights may be turned on at different times to examine cartilage, bone, blood flow, skin, or other forms of tissue. In one embodiment, the camera  1202  may fixedly or movably extend or protrude from the end of the portable endoscope  1200  to provide an uninhibited view of portions of the body during use. 
     In one embodiment, the camera  1202  may be connected to a motor that allows the camera  1202  to extend a small distance from the end of the portable endoscope  1200 , rotate, and/or pivot. For example, the case  1201  may include bearings or rollers (not shown) for extending and rotating the camera  1202 . The motor may be controlled remotely utilizing logic included in the portable endoscope  1200 . For example, the wireless device  1212  of  FIG. 12  may include a graphical user interface for rotating or pivoting the camera  1202  extending the camera  1202 , switching between light spectrums, and recording video content. In addition, the camera  1202  may be able to zoom in and out. In one embodiment, the camera  1202  may utilize a fly eye configuration to get multiple views. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates another embodiment of a portable endoscope  1600  in accordance with another embodiment. The portable endoscope  1600  may include a case  1602 , first end  1604 , camera  1606 , light  1608 , cable  1610 , transceiver  1612 , and battery  1614 . The portable endoscope  1600  is externally connected to the transceiver  1612  and battery  1614 . As a result, the size of the portable endoscope  1600  may be reduced even further. 
     In one embodiment, the cable  1610  of the portable endoscope  1600  is incorporated into an elastic, Velcro band, or securing component for the nasal guide. The cable  1610  may include a video cable for communicating a video signal to the transceiver  1612  as well as a wire for providing power. The transceiver  1612  and battery  1614  may be attached or integrated into the securing component (e.g., elastic band) of the nasal guide. For example, the Velcro band may include a pocket for inserting the transceiver  1612  and battery  1614 , and the cable  1610  may be built in. In one embodiment, the transceiver  1612  may also include a port (not shown) for connecting the portable endoscope  1600  to a wireless device or computing device to view the video content and perform the medical procedure with the visual assistance of the portable endoscope  1600 . 
     The first end  1604  of the portable endoscope  1600  may have a diagonal concave shape for preventing blood, raucous, pus, or other fluids from accumulating on the first end  1604  thereby blocking the view of the camera  1606  and the output of the light  1608 . Blood that accumulates on the first end  1604  preferably runs to the bottom or side of the portable endoscope  1600  because of the shape. 
     In another embodiment, the first end  1604  may be rounded with an even concave shape that pushes or maintains an air bubble in front of the first end  1604  of the portable endoscope  1600  during utilization keeping the camera  1606  unobstructed. 
       FIG. 17  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide  1700  being utilized with a portable endoscope  1702  and a balloon catheter  1704  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The balloon catheter  1704  may be a medical device, endoscope, catheter, technology, or system, such as those sold by Acclarent. In one embodiment, the medical professional may insert and position the nasal guide  1700  in the nose of the patient as previously described. In this embodiment, the nasal guide  1700  includes elongated frame  1705  enclosing a first lumen  1708  and a second lumen  1710 . The lumens  1708  and  1710  of the nasal guide  1700  are elongated to reach further into the nasal cavity of the patient toward the sinuses for performing various medical procedures. As previously described, the elongated frame  1705  may narrow slightly at one end to facilitate expansion of the nostrils and to reach further into the nasal cavities as the nasal cavities narrow. 
     The portable endoscope  1702  and balloon catheter  1704  may be positioned in either the first lumen  1708  or the second lumen  1710  of the nasal guide  1700 . In one embodiment, the nasal guide  1700  may include the first lumen  1708  and second lumen  1710  for both nostrils and the portable endoscope  1702  and balloon catheter  1704  may be moved between any of those lumens based on the physical condition of the patient, medical procedure being performed, and/or preferences of the medical professional. 
     Next, the portable endoscope  1702  may be inserted through the first lumen  1708  of the nasal guide  1700  to the nasal cavity of the patient. The portable endoscope  1702  may be turned on and activated to begin communicating video through a wireless signal  1706  to a wireless adapter  1707  wireless device or computing device as previously described. The wireless adapter  1707  may be utilized with any number of electronic devices to receive or format the video content in real-time. In one embodiment, the wireless adapter  1707  is an adapter, such as a USB adapter, dongle, or other Interface configured to receive wireless communications from the portable endoscope  1702 , and may decode, decrypt, and/or format the video signal retrieved by the camera of the portable endoscope  1702  for view by a medical professional or other party. 
     The portable endoscope  1702  is secured by the nasal guide  1700  at a desired position and location selected by the medical professional. The portable endoscope  1702  may easily be further inserted, removed, or rotated. The video provided by the portable endoscope  1702  may be communicated to one or more other devices for guiding or informing the medical professional while performing a medical procedure. The portable endoscope  1702  may provide both light and video within the nasal or body cavity or other orifice. The light and video may be utilized to position and utilize the balloon catheter  1704 . For example, the video from the portable endoscope  1702  may ensure that a wire and balloon inserted through the balloon catheter are guided into a selected sinus for performing a procedure, such as balloon sinuplasty. 
     In another embodiment, the portable endoscope  1702  may include a motorized end for controlling the positioning of the inserted end with the light and camera. For example, the portable endoscope  1702  may pivot 90° and rotate 360°. In addition, the light and camera may be configured to be extended or retracted from the frame of the portable endoscope  1702 . For example, a graphical user interface of an iPad, tablet, or other computing device may be utilized to vertically and horizontally position and angle the portable endoscope (and corresponding light and camera) to a desired position to illuminate tissue and provide video guidance of the balloon catheter  1704  and insertion of a win balloon into one or more sinuses. 
     In another embodiment, the first lumen  1708  or the second lumen  1710  may be enclosed or sealed on an interior end  1711 . As a result, a non-medical scope, borescope, probe, or other instrument may be inserted into the nasal guide  1700  without requiring an FDA approved device or extensive sanitation. The sealed end of the lumen may be formed of a transparent glass or plastic for videoing through the nasal guide  1700 . In another embodiment, the nasal glide  1700  includes extensions (not shown) sized only slightly bigger than the first lumen  1708  or second lumen  1710  for extending the reach of the openings. The extensions may be straw-like extensions that further extend the reach of the nasal guide  1700  and may be open ended or enclosed. Depending on the configuration of the nasal guide  1700  as has been illustrated in the previous embodiments, the extensions may extend from 1 cm to 20 cm from the end of the elongated frame  1705 , but the distance may vary from this depending on the procedure or application. 
     In another embodiment, the extensions or the elongated frame  1705  of the nasal guide  1700  may include corrugations (not shown) like a flexible straw for angling or positioning the first lumen  1708  and second lumen  1710 . For example, the nasal guide  1700  may be manually bent or configured particularly at the corrugations to enhance performance of the medical procedure and the nose of the patient. Similarly, a portion of the frame  1705  of the portable endoscope  1702  may be corrugated for manually, mechanically, or electrically configuring the shape and direction of the portable endoscope  1702 . 
       FIG. 18  is a schematic, pictorial representation of an endoscopic peripheral  1800  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  is part of an endoscopic system  1801 . The endoscopic system  1801  may be utilized to illuminate, capture, view, and manage captured content. The endoscopic system  1801  may be utilized for self-examination or to examine others based on the circumstances. 
     The endoscopic system  1801  may be sold to individual users for performing self-examinations or examinations of others. For example, users in remote locations, such as rural users, military users, campers, or so forth, may utilize the endoscopic system  1801  to do examinations, perform analysis, or so forth. The endoscopic system  1801  may also be utilized to perform an after-hours examination or an examination based on specific instructions from a medical professional. In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  may be configured to automatically display, store, and communicate content. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic system  1801  includes a lug  1801  a flexible cord  1806 , a bending portion  1808 , a camera  1810  a light  1812 , a wireless device  1814 , and an application  1816 . The camera  1810 , the light  1812 , and the bending portion  1808  may also be referred to as a first end  1820  and the plug  1804  and/or a portion of the flexible cord  1806  may also be referred to as a second end  1822 . In one embodiment, all or portions of the endoscopic peripheral  1800  may be replaceable or interchangeable. For example, the bending portion  1808  may be replaced with a straight fixed or straight curved end for visualizing a patient&#39;s throat or nose. The first end  1820  or the second end  1822  may also be replaced due to damage. In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  may include plugs or interfaces separating the first end  1820  and second end  1822  from the flexible cord  1806 . 
     The endoscopic peripheral  1800  may include a fixed or rigid housing or case for encompassing the enclosed components and connections, such as those describe in the first end  1820 . In another embodiment, the components of the endoscopic peripheral  1800  are integrated, fit together, or adhered. In yet another embodiment, the components of the endoscopic, peripheral  1800  are substantially enclosed by an exterior covering or surface of the flexible cord  1806 . All of the components of the camera  1810  and light  1812  are not covered to maintain the necessary functionality as is described herein. 
     The plug  1804  may be embodied in any number of configurations. For example, the plug  1804  mays represent any number of standardized or proprietary connectors. The plug  1804  may include any number of pins or contacts for interfacing with electronic devices. Wires, paths, connectors, or conductors with t the flexible cord  1806  may communicate the captured video content to the plug  1804  for communication to an interconnected electronic device, such as the wireless device  1814 . 
     In another embodiment, the plug  1804  may be plugged into an adapter (not shown) that may be directly connected to the applicable computing or communications device. The adapter may be especially useful for situations where the flexible cord  1806  is not long enough. For example, the plug  1804  may be a USB plug (e.g., USB 1.x, 2.x, 3.x, 4.x, type A, B, etc), and the adapter may be configured. to adapt the USB connection to other plug interfaces, such as a standard USB (Type A, micro-USB, mini USB, USB On-The-Go, lighting, Apple connectors, or so forth. However, the plug  1804  may be any standard (e.g., GSMA trade association approved) or proprietary plug for communicating with computing or communications devices provided by known manufacturers and service providers (e.g., Apple, Samsung, RIM, Qualcomm, ZTE, LG, Amazon, Huawei, Google, HTC, Nokia, Microsoft, Sony Ericcson, Dell, Acer, Lenovo, NEC, Kyocera, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Sanyo, Sharp, Alcatel, Toshiba, etc). In another embodiment, the adapter may be a wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless device  1814  or a computing device through a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, near field communication (NFC), WiMAX, PCS, GSM, CDMA, GPRS, infrared, a proprietary connection, or so forth. Any number of FCC, FDA, IEEE, ISO, CEN, ETSI, ARIB, ANSI, or IEC approved wireless communications protocols or standards may also be transmitted by the endoscopic peripheral  1800  or the adapter. The wireless adapter may also include logic for encoding, formatting, and processing signals to and from the wireless device  1814 . The wireless adapter may be utilized for applications where the standard cord length is insufficient or the environment is otherwise incompatible. 
     The length of the flexible cord  1806  may vary Lased on the application. For example, the flexible cord  1806  may vary between 6 cm to 5 meter in length. The endoscopic peripheral  1800  may also be utilized with a repeating or extension device to extend the length of the flexible cord  1806 . In one embodiment, the flexible cord  1806  shields and protects the twisted pairs wires, or cabling encompassed within the endoscopic peripheral  1800 . The exterior of the flexible cord  1806  may be composed of plastic, rubber, or another protecting material. For example, the flexible cord  1806  may represent medical grade plastic that may be more easily cleaned and sterilized for repeated use. In one embodiment, the flexible cord  1806  may include an outer protective layer, a shield (or shielding), an electrostatic shield, insulation, and one or more conductors or electrical contacts configured to communicate power, image content, and control signals. For example, the electrostatic shield may a jacketed wire mesh configured to reduce electronic noise and interference. 
     The bending portion  1808  is configured to be bent or positioned and thereafter hold the position. For example, the user may position the bending portion  1808  as an arced shape that may facilitate looking into the mouth of an individual. In one embodiment, the bending portion  1808  may be linked to controls (not shown) or a motor (not shown) for controlling the motion, angle, or position of the bending portion. For example, a directional controller may be configured to move the camera  1810  and light  1812  to a particular direction, position, or angle. In another embodiment, the bending portion  1808  may be flexible enough to deform based on the provided space and configuration in which the endoscopic peripheral  1800  is being utilized. 
     The camera  1810  may be a video or still image capturing device as was previously described. In one embodiment, the camera  1810  is a miniaturized camera, inserted in the tip of the endoscopic peripheral  1800  and configured to communicate the captured content through a wire, bus, cable or so forth. In one embodiment, the camera  1810  may include a processor, DSP, ASIC, graphics rendering chip, or other processing unit or circuit for processing the captured images. In another embodiment, the camera  1810  may communicate the raw captured content to a separate electronic device for processing. The camera  1810  may also represent a fiber optic camera with processing components at the second end  1822  near or integrated with the plug  1804 . 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  may include an integrated or externally connected thermometer (not shown). For example, the camera  1810 , light  1812 , or bending portion  1808  may include an integrated thermometer (not shown). The thermometer may be a digital thermometer utilized to accurately determine a user&#39;s temperature and display the information to the wireless device  1814 . However the thermometer may be a mercury in glass thermometer, infrared thermometer, or liquid crystal thermometer that may be utilized to check temperature as well as determine whether an individual has a fever or is hypothermic. 
     The described embodiments of the endoscopic peripheral  1800  and wireless endoscope are configured to be universal plug-and-play devices for both computing, communications, and other electronic devices. In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  is hot pluggable and configured for zero configuration connections. For example, when physically or wirelessly connected to an electronic device, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  or wireless endoscope may automatically establish working configurations with other devices, such as computing, communications, or other electronic devices. The plug-and-play standards comply with applicable wired or wireless standards set by the Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), ISO, IEEE (e.g. 802.11X, 802.14X, DICOM, MIB, Personal Health Data (PHD), and so forth. Combined standards or proprietary standards may also be utilized. 
     In another embodiment, the wireless device  1814  (or a computing device) may include a processor, memory, and other hardware, firmware, and software that are specifically designed to interoperate with the endoscopic peripheral  1800 . The endoscopic peripheral  1800  may also include a processor and memory. The processor is circuitry or logic enabled to control execution of a set of instructions. The processor may be one or more microprocessors, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), central processing units, or other devices suitable for controlling an electronic device including one or more hardware and software elements, executing software, instructions, programs, and applications, converting and processing signals and information, and performing other related tasks. For example, the processor may perform encoding of standard or high definition content captured by the camera  1810  to reduce latency when communicating or viewing the content. In another example, the content may be raw, encoded, or formatted content that is processed by the interconnected electronic device, such as the wireless device  1814 . 
     The processor may be a single chip or integrated with other computing or communications elements. The memory may be a hardware element, device, or recording media configured to store data for subsequent retrieval or access at a later time. The memory may be static or dynamic memory. The memory may include a hard disk, random access memory, cache, removable media drive, mass storage, or configuration suitable as storage for data, instructions, and information. In one embodiment, the memory and processor may be integrated. The memory may use any type of volatile or non-volatile storage techniques and mediums. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1800  may include a memory to store content captured by the camera  1810 . For example, each new examination session may be saved as a discrete file that may be communicated, accessed, or retrieved later. The memory may also store an application that is utilized to interface the endoscopic peripheral  1800  with the wireless device  1814 . For example, a program, script, sub-routine, set of instructions, or so forth may be stored to the memory so that when the endoscopic peripheral is plugged into an electronic device, the electronic device is configured to decode, process, format, and view the captured content as well as manage functionality of the endoscopic peripheral  1800 . The user may utilize the wireless device  1814  to turn the endoscopic peripheral  1800  on and off, adjust the light intensity, resolution, video/image characteristics compression, format, brightness, contrast, frames, aspect ratio, etc), physically angle the camera or lights, adjust or turn on and off different sets of lights, automatically stream content, store content on the endoscopic peripheral  1800 , wireless device  1814 , or other component 
     The wireless device  1814  may include any number of hard keys or soft keys. The hard keys are dedicated buttons or interface elements hard-coded for a single, unique, and consistent purpose. Examples of hard keys include the 12-buttons of the traditional alpha-numeric keypad, the send/end keys commonly found on mobile phones, and buttons to initiate or end a speakerphone function. The soft keys are programmable buttons or interface elements. Soft keys are usually located alongside a display device and may perform different functions dependent on the text shown near the soft keys on the display. Examples of soft keys may include a rower button for the endoscopic peripheral  1800 . 
     The wireless device  1814  may include any number of computing and telecommunications components, devices or elements which may include busses, motherboards, circuits, ports, interfaces, cards, converters, adapters, connections, transceivers, display, antennas, and other similar components. For example, the wireless device  1814  may represent a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) phone, plain old telephone system (POTS) telephone, e-reader, or so forth that may receive and/or communicate the content captured by the camera  1810 . 
     In one embodiment, the content captured by the endoscopic peripheral  1800  may be communicated to, through, or by a portal or other software or hardware interface. The portal may be a web site that functions as a central point of access to information on the Internet or an intranet. The portal may be accessed from any computing or communications system or device enabled to communicate through a network connection. The endoscopic peripheral  1800  may have a hardware or software identifier that is utilized to automatically route captured content to the portal for viewing, storage, management, or so forth. 
       FIG. 19  is a schematic, pictorial representation of another endoscopic peripheral  1900  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The endoscopic peripheral  1900  may include a micro USB plug  1902 , a camera  1904 , a funnel shamed lead  1906 , and a latch  1908 . 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1900  may include a micro USB plug  1902 . The micro USB plug  1902  may be configured to be inserted into a computing or communications device. For example, many smart phones include micro USB connectors that may be configured to communicate with the endoscopic peripheral  1900 . However, the micro USB plug  1902  may be replaced by any miniaturized plug whether standardized or custom designed. The endoscopic peripheral  1900  may also include as a standard accessory one or more adapters for converting the plug, such as the micro USB plug  1902 , to a different standard or format, such as USB. 
     In another embodiment, the adapter (not shown) may be a wireless transceiver. The wireless transceiver adapter may include a rechargeable battery and may be configured to communicate with computing or communications devices tit Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, near field communications, Zigby or other communications standards, protocols, or formats. 
     In one embodiment, a body  1912  of the endoscopic peripheral  1900  may include any number of strengthening, shielding, or strength components. For example, the body  1902  or cord portion of the endoscopic peripheral  1900  may include a wire or plastic framework both surrounding and shielding the wires within the body  1912 . As a result, the body  1912  may be shielded from radio frequency signals and other electronic noise that are common in the various environments in which the endoscopic peripheral  1900  will be utilized. In addition, the structure of the body  1912  may prevent the body  1912  from stretching, tearing, or sustaining excess wear due to repositioning or otherwise moving the endoscopic peripheral  1900 . For example, the body  1912  may be long enough that a medical professional may occasionally step on or run over the body  1912  with an office chair or otherwise apply pressure and strain on the endoscopic peripheral  1900  which it is configured to bear without losing functionality. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  1900  may include the funnel shaped head  1906 . The camera  1904  may be placed at the tip of the funnel shaped head  1906  for visualizing a patient&#39;s ear, nose, or other organ or body portion. The funnel shaped head  1906  may be configured as a safety structure for the endoscopic peripheral  1900 . For example, the increased angle and widening head of the funnel shaped head  1906  may ensure that a user does not insert the endoscopic peripheral  1900  too far into a patient&#39;s body. For example, the funnel shaped head  1906  may prevent the user from damaging a patient&#39;s eardrum when trying to visualize a potential medical issue in the patient&#39;s ear. In three-dimensions, the funnel shaped head  1906  is conically shaped with the camera  1904  at the tip of the head. The length and angles of the funnel shaped head  1906  may vary. For example, the funnel shaped head  1906  may be elongated for viewing the sinuses of a patient or may be shorter for viewing the ear of a patient. 
     In one embodiment, sides  1914  of the funnel shaped head  1906  may be curved or arced to select an insertion depth for the funnel shaped head  1906  within the patient. The funnel shaped head  1906  and the camera  1904  may be replaceable or attached to the body  1912  for customization. For example, the shape and size of the funnel shaped head  1906  may vary for pediatric, adult, and animal usage. For example, the funnel shaped head  1906  may be very short in length and wide for visualizing children&#39;s eardrums when compared with a funnel shaped head  1906  that may be utilized to visualize the sinuses of a horse. 
     In another embodiment, the ends  1910  of the funnel shaped head  1906  may include extensions or a collar that are integrated with or attached to the funnel shaped head  1906  at the ends  1910  to prevent over-insertion or extension of the endoscopic peripheral  1900  in the patient&#39;s body during utilization. The endoscopic peripheral  1900  may include one or more latches  1908  for securing a disposable cover (not shown). For example, the latch  1908  may be configured to hold a securing ring  2006  (shown in  FIG. 20  below). 
     In another embodiment, the latch  1908  may be one or more hooks or extensions hingedly or pivotally attached to the body  1912  to secure or receive the securing ring of the disposable cover. The latch  1908  may also include a release for removing the disposable cover from the latch  1908 . As a result, the disposable cover is secured in place during utilization and easily attached and removed when working with a number of patients, such as in the clinical or emergency setting. As previously disclosed, the funnel shaped head  1906  ending may be flexible for varying applications. For example, the funnel shaped head  1906  may be formed of a flexible plastic or rubber material that is less likely to injure a patient during a rigorous examination. The disposable cover may also include a swabbing section for swabbing a body part for analysis (e.g., swabbing the users nasal pages, tonsils, throat, cheek etc). The swabbing section max be formed of an absorbent material, such as a polyester knit fabric, adhered or integrated with the disposable cover. 
       FIG. 20  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a disposable cover  2000  for an endoscopic peripheral in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The disposable cover  2000  may be utilized for any number of medical or surgical instruments or for other devices, systems, and applications. For example, the disposable cover  2000  may be utilized on a borescope in a clean room of a semiconductor manufacturing facility. In one embodiment, the disposable cover  2000  includes a rigid portion  2002 , a flexible portion  2004 , and a securing ring  2006 . 
     In one embodiment, the disposable cover  2000  includes two or more sections or portions including at least the rigid portion  2002  and the flexible portion  2004 . In other embodiments, the disposable cover  2000  may be formed entirely of rigid or flexible materials corresponding to the rigid portion  2002  and the flexible portion  2004  respectively. 
     The rigid portion  2002  may be composed of a clear material for enabling a camera of the endoscopic peripheral to gather image and video content. The rigid portion  2002  may also include a built-in lens for viewing an area at the viewing end for enhancing the images captured by the camera. For example, the rigid portion  2002  may be formed of a clear plastic, such as a U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) Class V and VI silicon, rubber, polymers, or plastic materials (or a combination thereof). 
     In one embodiment, the flexible portion  2004  may composed of latex, Vytex, resin (e.g., AT-10 resin) plastic, polyurethane, polyisoprene, nitrile, or so forth. The flexible portion  2004  may allow the disposable cover  2000  to bend, flex, or deform with the motion of the endoscopic peripheral. For example, the endoscopic peripheral may be configured to bend as much as 90-360°. The disposable cover  2000  may flex with the endoscopic peripheral to protect the patient (e.g., tissues, membranes, organs, blood, etc.) and prevent contamination of the endoscopic peripheral. 
     The rigid portion  2002  and the flexible portion  2004  may be connected or bonded in any number of ways. In one embodiment, the flexible portion  2004  is crimped within an end of the rigid portion  2002 . In another embodiment, the rigid portion  2002  is heat bonded to the flexible portion  2004 . In another embodiment, the rigid portion  2002  and flexible portion  2004  are adhered or welded to one another. 
     In another embodiment, the disposable cover  2000  may be formed of a rigid plastic material. A rigid corer nay be particularly useful for embodiments of the endoscopic peripheral that are rigid or otherwise fixed. 
       FIG. 21  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a disposable cover  2100  for the endoscopic peripherals in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the disposable cover  2100  of  FIG. 21  may be configured to be utilized with the endoscopic peripheral  1900  of  FIG. 19 . The head portion  2102  may be configured to be positioned Over the funnel shaped head. Similarly, the shalt portion  2104  may be flexible and expandable allowing the disposable cover  2100  to be pulled over the funnel shaped head. In one embodiment, the securing ring  2106  may be expanded to fit over the funnel shaped head when being positioned. For example, the securing ring  2106  may include a broken or split section allowing the securing ring  2106  to deform or open to receive the funnel shaped head  1906 . 
     In another embodiment, the securing ring  2106  may be a fortified section of the disposable cover  2100 . For example, the material making up the disposable cover  2100  may be formed (e.g., compressed, molded, extruded, shaped, etc,) into a substantive solid ring forming the securing ring. The disposable cover  2100  may include one or more reinforced holes (not shown) for attaching to one or more latches, hooks, or extensions of the endoscopic peripheral  1900 . The disposable cover  2100  may define the fortified holes, such that the disposable cover  2100  does not rip, tear, rupture, or break during utilization, placement, or so forth. 
     In alternative embodiments the securing ring  2106  may be configured to actively secure the disposable cover  2100  to the endoscopic peripheral  1900 , surgical device, medical instrument, or other tool. For example, the securing ring  2106  may be configured as a miniaturized wire tie, drawing strings, buckle, or clamp. The securing ring  2106  may be formed of non-slip material that allows it to be tightly drawn against the endoscopic peripheral  1900  or other device without slipping during utilization. As a result, the securing ring  2106  may be easily unlatched, unbuckled, or cut when its purpose to fulfilled and needs to be disposed of. The disposable cover  2100  may be a stand-alone embodiment for utilization with a number of different devices and tools. The size (e.g. length, diameter, etc) and shape (e.g., circular, square, or oblong cross sections, differently sized head, body, and end, etc.) of the disposable cover  2100  may correspond to the medical device or tool as is herein described. 
       FIG. 22  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a plug-and-play endoscopic peripheral  2200  and a cover  2202  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The endoscopic peripheral  2200  may include a plug  2204 , a body  2206 , a head  2208 , a camera  2210 , and a clamp  2212 . 
     In one embodiment, the plug  2204  is a USB or other plug-and-play connector. As a result, the endoscopic peripheral  2200  may not require a special device driver or support software. For example, the implementation the USB plug (e.g., USB 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, etc), Ethernet, FireWire, or other plug-and-play standard may a the endoscopic peripheral  2200  to be automatically recognized by computing or communications devices. The plug  2204  may also be a proprietary connector, such as a connector for Apple devices (e.g., lightning, etc.), This may be particularly useful for users that have limited experience with electronic devices, such as computers. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  2200  may be automatically powered on and activated in response to the plug  2204  being connected to an electronic device, such as a computer or a cell phone. The endoscopic peripheral  2200  may also include a switch, button, or other selection component for performing any of: powering on/off the endoscopic peripheral  2200 , increasing or decreasing the light intensity, changing from video to still images, changing light spectra, adjusting resolution, adjusting video or camera, settings, or so forth. 
     As previously disclosed, the head  2208  of the endoscopic peripheral  2200  may be fixed or flexible. In one embodiment, the head  2208 , including the clamp  2212 , may be removably attached to the body  2206  of the endoscopic peripheral  2200 . The endoscopic peripheral  2200  may be configured to receive fixed or flexible heads depending on the medical application. The disposable cover  2202  may similarly be fixed or flexible based on the configuration of the head  2208 . 
     The clamp  2212  is configured to secure the disposable cover  2202  tightly against the head  2208  and the camera  2210 . The clamp  2212  may secure an end or securing ring  2214  of the disposable cover  2202 . The disposable cover  2202  may also include a hole  2216 . The hole  2216  is a receptacle or attachment point. The hole  2216  is defined by the disposable cover  2202  and may be utilized to secure disposable cover during utilization. 
       FIG. 23  is a flowchart of a process for utilizing an endoscopic peripheral in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the process of  FIG. 23  may be implemented by a system controlled by a user utilizing an endoscopic peripheral with a computer or wireless device (utilized for purposes of simplicity). The endoscopic peripheral may include a head that is covered with a disposable cover or otherwise sanitized before being utilized. 
     The process may begin by interfacing an endoscopic peripheral with a wireless device (step  2302 ). For example, the user may have inserted a port end of the endoscopic peripheral in a computer or wireless device for capturing the images. In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral may be powered by the computer or wireless device. In another embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral may include a separate power supply, such as batteries or AC/DC power plug. The image content may also be communicated from a camera of the endoscopic peripheral to the computer or wireless device to be viewed, processed, or saved. The endoscopic peripheral may also perform some image processing, filtering, noise reduction formatting, clean up, and other similar operations before communicating, the captured content to the computer or wireless device. 
     Next, the system displays an interface for managing content captured by the endoscopic peripheral (step  2304 ). In one embodiment, the interface is a program, application, or other graphical user interface that is activated in response to user input (e.g., opening an application, selecting an icon, etc) or in response to the connector/plug, end of the endoscopic peripheral being inserted in the computer or wireless device. 
     Next the system captures the content through the endoscopic peripheral (step  2306 ). The content of step  2306  may include video and image content in any number of spectra. The endoscopic peripheral may include one or more LEDs, fiber optics, or other light sources to enable the camera of the endoscopic peripheral to fully capture the desired content. 
     Next, the system manages the content including saving, streaming, sharing, otherwise processing the content (step  2308 ). In one embodiment, the interface is a graphical user interface that provides the user with managing and processing options, such as record the content, upload the content, send or share the content with a designated user, contact or device, stream the content to a designated user, device, or location in real-time, or edit the content. The software utilized with the endoscopic peripheral may be standard or default software utilized by a computing or communications device or proprietary software that is automatically or manually installed in response to connecting the endoscopic peripheral for the first time. The content may be stored and then uploaded to a designated location specified by the user or associated with the endoscopic peripheral. For example, video content captured by the endoscopic peripheral may be automatically uploaded to a server/database through one or more networks and then saved under an identifier associated with the endoscopic peripheral. For example, a serial number may be associated with a patient identifier. As a result, users in remote locations or at borne may be able to be treated by doctors even if they do the examination themselves. 
       FIG. 24  is a schematic, pictorial representation of a communications environment  2400  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the communications environment  2400  may include endoscopic peripheral  2402 , an associated identification  2404 , a laptop  2406 , networks  2408 , a content management system  2410 , a server  2412 , a database  2414 , a computer  2416 , and a display  2418 . 
     The endoscopic peripheral  2402  may be configured to capture content that is subsequently streamed to a remote location whether it be the top  2406  or the display  2418 . In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  2402  may include the identifier  2404  for identifying content captured by the endoscopic peripheral  2402 . The identifier  2404  may be a hardware or software identifier. For example, the identifier  2404  may be a MAC address, IP address, serial number, IMEI, or user assigned identifier, such as a name. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  2402  includes a memory configured to store the identifier  2404 . The endoscopic peripheral  2402  may be configured to be plug and play compatible. However, in other embodiments, the endoscopic peripheral  2402  may store scripts, updates, software, or a set of instructions and commands for utilizing and interfacing the endoscopic peripheral  2402 . The endoscopic peripheral  2402  may also be configured to store captured image content. As a result, the content may be easily moved from one location to another and uploaded and communicated as needed. This may be particularly useful for remote settings, such as military operations, rural areas, triage areas, and so forth. 
     The laptop  2406  may utilize a default application or a specialized application to view the content captured or visualized by the endoscopic peripheral  2402 . For example, any number of default video or content applications, operating systems, or so forth may be utilized to view, save, and manage the content. 
     The laptop  240  or the endoscopic peripheral  2402  may communicate with the networks  2408 . The laptop  2406  is representative of any number of computing or communications devices. The networks  2408  represent one or more communications networks as are herein described. The connections between the components may be wired or wireless. 
     Communications of content from the endoscopic peripheral  2402  may be communicated to the content management system  2410 . The content management system  2410  may represent a cloud computing system, server farm, or other communications system. In one embodiment, the server  2412  may be accessed by the laptop  2406  to stream the captured content. The database  2414  may represent one or more databases storing the captured content. In one embodiment, the computer  2416  may access content captured by the endoscopic peripheral  2402  from the content management system  2410 . In another embodiment, the computer  2416  may access the content from the laptop  2406  through the network. A user may utilize the computer  2416  and the display  2418  to view the content captured by the endoscopic peripheral  2402 . For example, the user may be a doctor remotely located from the endoscopic peripheral  2402  that has been loaned to a rural patient. The content may be captured and communicated in real-time (or near/substantial real time) or as non-real time communications. 
     In one embodiment, the endoscopic peripheral  2402  or software stored in or associated with the endoscopic peripheral  2402  may be configured to automatically communicate with the content management system  2410  (or respective components) or the computer  2416 . The communications may be routed utilizing a hardware address or software address, such as a MAC address, IP address, website, secured tunnel, or so forth. 
     The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodiments for implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting in scope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of the invention disclosed with greater particularity.