Importance

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Abstract

A speculum sheath which covers a speculum and methods for using the sheath are described herein. A variety of different types of specula may be covered with the sheath, including anal, vaginal, ear, and nasal specula. The sheath is made of a compliant or partially compliant material, including latex, vinyl, natural and synthetic rubbers, silicone, nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, and non-degradable or degradable elastomers. The material may be transparent or opaque. In the preferred embodiment, the material is transparent. The sheath may contain one or two openings. Optionally, the sheath contains an affixing means on the inside of or at least one of the openings on the sheath to prevent slippage when in contact with the speculum. Optionally, the sheath contains an active agent, such as hemostatic agents, anti-infectives, antibiotics, antimitotics anti-inflammatory, or other chemotherapeutic agents. In the preferred embodiment, the sheath is placed on a vaginal speculum and supports loose vaginal tissue when inserted into a patient. In the most preferred embodiment, the material is transparent so that medical provider may view the lumen.

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First Claim