Scanning endoscope

Abstract

A scanning endoscope amenable to both rigid and flexible forms, scans a beam of light across a field-of-view, collects light scattered from the scanned beam, detects the scattered light, and produces an image. The endoscope may comprise one or more bodies housing a controller, light sources, and detectors; and a separable tip housing the scanning mechanism. The light sources may include laser emitters that combine their outputs into a polychromatic beam. Light may be emitted in ultraviolet or infrared wavelengths to produce a hyperspectral image. The detectors may be housed distally or at a proximal location with gathered light being transmitted thereto via optical fibers. A plurality of scanning elements may be combined to produce a stereoscopic image or other imaging modalities. The endoscope may include a lubricant delivery system to ease passage through body cavities and reduce trauma to the patient. The imaging components are especially compact, being comprised in some embodiments of a MEMS scanner and optical fibers, lending themselves to interstitial placement between other tip features such as working channels, irrigation ports, etc.

Description

technical field [0001] This invention relates to scanned beam systems, and more particularly to endoscopes and laparoscopes that use scanned beam imaging. Background technique [0002] This application is based on Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 482,376, inventors Wiklof et al., entitled "Scanning Endoscopes," filed June 23, 2003, and claims priority on that filing date right. [0003] Video endoscopy and laparoscopy have been commonly used since the 1980s. Laparoscopes are rigid devices that can be used for minimally invasive procedures. Typically, laparoscopes use a handle whose proximal external port contains a digital camera. The digital camera captures video images through a tube protruding into the patient's body cavity that contains a series of end-to-end rod lenses. The camera sends signals via wires to a console that usually includes a monitor. Also typically located on the console is a light source, usually a xenon lamp. The light source transmits light...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Diameter limitations have been a common impediment to increased resolution, especially in distal imaging systems

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