Endoscopic apparatus with integrated multiple biopsy device

Abstract

An imaging endoscope comprising a shaft having a proximal end adapted to be secured to a handle, and a distal end having a biopsy forceps disposed therein. The biopsy forceps includes one or more end-effector elements that are actuated with a control cable that may be connected to the handle. The endoscope shaft includes a biopsy sample lumen that is configured to receive a biopsy sample obtained from the forceps assembly. A sample collection apparatus is attached to the handle to capture multiple biopsy samples. In some embodiments, the endoscope is a single-use endoscope.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11 / 129,561, filed May 13, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to medical devices in general and to biopsy devices in particular.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]It has become well established that there are major health benefits from regular endoscopic examinations of a patient's internal structures such as the alimentary canals and airways, e.g., the esophagus, stomach, lungs, colon, uterus, urethra, kidney, and other organ systems. Endoscopes are also commonly used to perform surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, or other medical procedures under direct visualization. A conventional imaging endoscope used for such procedures includes an illuminating mechanism such as a fiber optic light guide connected to a proximal source of light, and an imaging means such as an imaging light guide to carry ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Conventional endoscopes are expensive, hand assembled, medical devices costing in the range of $25,000 for an endoscope, and much more for the associated operator console.

Conventional endoscopes are generally built of sturdy materials, which decreases the flexibility of the scope and thus can decrease patient comfort.

Furthermore, conventional endoscopes are complex and fragile instruments that frequently need expensive repair as a result of damage during use or during a disinfection procedure.

One medical device that has not previously been inexpensive enough to be considered truly disposable is the endoscope, such as a colonoscope, bronchoscope, gastroscope, duodenoscope, etc.

The process of taking a biopsy presents several challenges, including accurate targeting of the biopsy site, precise and accurate penetration of the biopsy site, preservation of the biopsy tissue upon extraction, and tracking the source of the biopsy sample.

To obtain multiple samples with a conventional biopsy system, biopsy tools must be repeatedly inserted and the sample retrieved, thereby compounding the already awkward procedure.

In addition, conventional biopsy systems are not equipped with a sample retrieval device for receiving and cataloging multiple samples, and such systems do not provide a method by which the precise location of the biopsy site can be tracked and correlated with the biopsy sample.

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