Importance

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Abstract

An endoscope includes an elongated sheath member, with a selectively controllable bendable section which houses an image forming optical system. A generally rigid section includes a control housing. An image transmitting optical system extends throughout the length of the sheath member and terminates behind and adjacent the image forming system. A light transmitting system also extends throughout the length of the sheath member to the image forming optical system, the rearward end of which is adapted to be operatively connected to a light source. A channel, extending throughout the length of the sheath member, provides a flow of pressurized gas is directed across the image forming optical system to keep the image forming optical system operationally clear.

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First Claim