Importance

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Abstract

Methods and apparatus for providing suction and/or irrigation in rigid endoscopes used for, e.g., bronchoscopy, esphagoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy are described. The described methods and apparatus permit a user of the endoscope to maintain visual contact with a target area being viewed though the endoscope during suction/irrigation procedures. In accordance with the present invention, the antifog port of a known rigid endoscope assembly is coupled to a suction/irrigation apparatus as opposed to being plugged or coupled to an antifog fluid source. The antifog port is thereby converted into a suction/irrigation port. By providing suction/irrigation via the antifog port, the need to remove the telescope to perform suction and/or the need to use an instrument incorporating a suction channel is eliminated. The suction/irrigation apparatus of the present invention includes an extension tube, a syringe, a valve, e.g., a two way stop cock, and a connecting tube. The stop cock is used to selectively couple either the source of the irrigation fluids, e.g., the syringe, or a suction device to the antifog port of the rigid endoscope. The syringe includes calibration marks and is filled with an irrigation fluid, e.g., saline fluid. The extension tube is used to position the two way stop cock and syringe a sufficient distance away from the rigid endoscope so that it can be operated by an assistant without interfering with the person using the endoscope.

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First Claim