Medical device accessory

Abstract

Provided is a medical device accessory. A cap for fitting on a distal end of a shaft of a medical device is provided. The cap comprises: a tubular body having a first end, a second end, inner and outer circumferential surfaces, an inner diameter, and at least one outwardly extending protruding element; and an axial gap in the tubular body, the axial gap extending at least partially between a first end and a second end, where the tubular body is movable between a first position, in which the gap has a first width and the tubular body has a first inner diameter, and a second position, in which the gap has a second width and the tubular body has a second inner diameter. The width of the gap and the inner diameter of the tubular body increase, wherein the tubular body is resiliently biased from the second position toward the first position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to accessories for use with medical devices such as endoscopes. Background Art

[0002] US2019 / 0183328A1 describes a cover for a shaft of a medical device, particularly a cover for fitting on a distal end of an endoscope. The cover is a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, and an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface. Axially extending ribs may be provided on the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface. A plurality of protruding elements are provided on an outer surface of the cover, and the plurality of protruding elements extend radially outward from the cover in use. These can pull back or flatten folds of body tissue to facilitate examination of a body cavity or perform other medical procedures using the medical device.

[0003] This type of cover is formed of a plastic material and forms a friction fit on the shaft of the medical device. However, since the external size of the shaft of the medical device can vary slightly, for example having different models, it is necessary to provide a cover that can adapt to different sizes of shafts while maintaining a secure fit on the shaft.

[0004] US2005 / 0234297A1 discloses, according to its abstract, devices and methods for removably engaging an insertion section of an endoscope and selectively articulating an endoscopic surgical access channel.

[0005] US2022 / 0160213A1 discloses, according to its abstract, an endoscopic device that includes at least an endoscope and one or more catheters, and means for fixing the endoscope to the catheter at a distal end of the endoscopic device.

[0006] US2014 / 0296629A1 discloses, according to its abstract, systems, methods, and devices including a releasable mounting device that can be used to couple an operating element such as an ablation device to a therapeutic or diagnostic device such as an endoscope.

[0007] US2023 / 0137851A1 discloses, according to its abstract, an endoscopic retraction assist device that includes a body and a device passage defined in the body, the body including opposite proximal and distal portions and a central portion between the proximal and distal portions.

[0008] US6569085 B2 discloses, according to its abstract, methods and devices for delivering a medical device outside an endoscope when the endoscope is installed within a patient's body. Summary of the Invention

[0009] A cap for fitting onto the distal end of a shaft of a medical device is provided. The cap includes: a tubular body having a first end, a second end, an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface, an inner diameter, and at least one projecting element extending outwardly; and an axial slit in the tubular body, the axial slit extending at least partially between the first end and the second end, wherein the tubular body is movable between a first position and a second position, in the first position, the slit has a first width and the tubular body has a first inner diameter, in the second position, the width of the slit and the inner diameter of the tubular body increase, and wherein the tubular body is elastically biased from the second position towards (or into) the first position. Such a cap can be easily fitted onto various medical device shafts.

[0010] The axial slit can extend the full length of the tubular body between the first end and the second end. This can allow a large amount of corresponding size change between the two positions.

[0011] The axial slit can be a partial axial slit. That is, the slit may not extend axially the entire axial length of the tubular body.

[0012] The tubular body can include a hinge section circumferentially aligned with the partial axial slit. This allows the remainder of the tubular body to hinge between the two positions.

[0013] The cap can include a plurality of axial slits. The cap can include the above-mentioned axial slit. The plurality of axial slits can allow more corresponding size change between the two positions.

[0014] The axial slits can be arranged rotationally symmetrically around the tubular body. This can allow equal deviation between the parts of the tubular body separated by the axial slits.

[0015] The tubular body can further include at least one biasing member. In any of the examples discussed herein, the biasing member can specifically be a spring member (or spring element). The biasing member can bias the tubular body towards the first position.

[0016] The biasing member can include an elastic spring plate located between the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface of the tubular body. Such a plate can effectively transmit the required biasing.

[0017] The spring plate can be perforated. This can reduce the weight of the spring plate.

[0018] The spring plate can include a plurality of circumferentially extending bands joined by at least one axially extending connecting rod. Again, this can help reduce the weight of the spring plate.

[0019] The biasing member can include a plurality of separate circumferentially extending bands. This is a lightweight and effective way to bias the tubular body.

[0020] The biasing member may be formed of metal. This may be advantageous because metals generally do not behave viscoelasticly (i.e. in a viscoelastic manner), particularly when compared to plastics that may form the coating of the tubular body. This helps to ensure that the biasing member maintains its tension over time. For example, the cap may be pre-tensioned in its packaging.

[0021] The biasing member may be embedded within the flexible coating material. This may protect the biasing member and ensure that the biasing member does not contact the patient when the cap is used outside the body.

[0022] The biasing member may be molded integrally with the flexible coating material. This is an efficient way of manufacturing the cover.

[0023] The axial gap can be non-linear. This can help ensure that the cover is aligned when installed.

[0024] The axial slit may be angled with respect to the radial direction of the tubular body. This means that there is no radial clearance through the cover.

[0025] The width of the axial gap may increase towards the second end of the tubular body. This may allow effective manipulation between the two positions while maintaining a suitable grip on the shaft.

[0026] The cover may also include a flexible bridging element spanning at least a portion of the axial gap. The bridging element may function as a biasing member as discussed herein.

[0027] The flexible bridging element may be axially discontinuous. This may reduce the weight of the cover.

[0028] A retainer for a cap as discussed herein is provided. The retainer comprises: a base and a side wall, the base and the side wall together defining a housing for receiving the cap; and a blocking member, the blocking member protruding into the housing and configured to fit within an axial slot in the tubular body when the tubular body is in a second position to retain the tubular body in the second position. The retainer may allow the cap to be easily mounted on the shaft.

[0029] The blocking member may include a body having a nose, wherein the nose is narrower than the body and is configured to fit into an axial slit in the tubular body. This keeps the axial slit open, allowing the cap to fit easily.

[0030] The holder may further comprise at least one positioning member protruding into the housing opposite to the blocking member.The positioning member helps to correctly position the shaft and the cover.

[0031] The blocking member may extend upwardly from the base to a first height, the or each locating member may extend upwardly from the base to a second height, and the first height may be greater than the second height. This allows tilting movement to remove the nose from the gap, thereby facilitating mounting of the cap to the shaft.

[0032] The nose portion may include parallel side walls.

[0033] The nose portion may include diverging side walls. This may help to hold the cap to the retainer.

[0034] The nose portion may include a concave end face. This helps to receive the shaft in the cap.

[0035] A component is provided that includes a cap assembled to a retainer as discussed herein. The component facilitates easy installation of the cap onto the shaft.

[0036] A method is provided for assembling a cap as discussed herein to the distal end of a shaft of a medical device, wherein the cap is assembled to a retainer such that a blocking member is located in an axial slot of a tubular body to hold the cap in a second position, and the method includes: inserting the distal end of the shaft of the medical device into the tubular body; tilting the shaft to remove the blocking member from the axial slot and allowing the tubular body to return to a first position and grip the shaft; and removing the shaft and the cap from the retainer. Thus, the cap is easily installed onto the shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fitting in a first closed position;

[0039] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a side view of the fitting;

[0040] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a plan view of the fitting;

[0041] Figure 4 shows perspective, side, and plan views of a spring member;

[0042] Figure 5 shows Figures 1 to 4 the fitting in a second open position in perspective and plan views;

[0043] Figure 6a shows Figure 1 a perspective view from above and a plan view of one embodiment of a retainer for the fitting;

[0044] Figure 6b shows a plan view of a second embodiment of the retainer;

[0045] Figure 7 shows Figure 6a the retainer in perspective and side views from below;

[0046] Figure 8 show a retainer with fittings assembled therein Figure 6a and Figure 7 a plan view and a perspective view from above;

[0047] Figures 9a to 9d show the shaft assembled into the fittings assembled in the retainer;

[0048] Figures 10a to 10i show an alternative form of the spring member;

[0049] Figure 11a show a perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0050] Figure 11b show the Figure 11a fitting in the second open position;

[0051] Figures 12a to 12c respectively show a perspective view, a top view and a close-up perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0052] Figure 13 show a perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0053] Figures 14a to 14c respectively show a perspective view, a top view and a close-up perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0054] Figures 15a to 15c respectively show a perspective view, a top view and a close-up perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0055] Figure 16 show a perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0056] Figure 17 show a perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0057] Figures 18a to 18b respectively show a perspective view and a close-up side view of the fitting in the first closed position;

[0058] Figures 19a to 19b respectively show a perspective view and a close-up front view of the fitting in the first closed position.

[0059] Figures 20a to 20c respectively show a perspective view, a top view and a front view of the fitting in the first closed position.

[0060] Figures 21a to 21b show a first perspective view and a second perspective view of the fitting in the first closed position. Detailed implementation mode

[0061] As Figures 1 to 3 shown, the fitting 10 for a medical device includes a cap for fitting on the distal end of a shaft 70 of, in particular, a medical device. The distal end is the end of the shaft 70 of the medical device that is first inserted into a patient's body during use.

[0062] In the present disclosure, the term "medical device" may refer to an endoscope, but the term is also intended to refer to any device suitable for insertion into a biological cavity or lumen for performing its visualization and / or treatment. Thus, the term "medical device" is intended to cover any one or all of an endoscope, a gastroscope, a colonoscope, an enteroscope, a sigmoidoscope, a wide-field cystoscope, but this list is non-exhaustive. Endoscopy involves examining the interior of a body cavity or lumen and includes procedures known as arthroscopy, cystoscopy, gastroscopy, enteroscopy, and colonoscopy. Enteroscopy involves examining the small intestine including the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Such devices are slender, flexible probes that can be inserted into the body directly or via a cannula or other guiding device. The medical device may also include a rigid surgical endoscope or endoscopic treatment devices such as biopsy forceps and polypectomy snares. The caps of the present disclosure can be used in combination with all of the above types of medical devices. The medical device can specifically be a medical scope device.

[0063] The cap includes a tubular body 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16, an outer peripheral surface 18, an inner peripheral surface 20, and a longitudinal axis 22. The fitting 10 further includes one or more protruding elements 24 protruding radially outward, as further described below. In other words, the tubular body 12 is a (partially) hollow cylinder. Although the body 12 is referred to as the tubular body 12, as Figures 1 to 3 shown, it does not form a complete cylindrical surface. In other words, the fitting 10 and / or the tubular body 12 are discontinuous.

[0064] The tubular body 12 may extend at least 270° in a plan view, as Figure 3 shown. Preferably, this may be at least 300° or even at least 330°.

[0065] The tubular body 12 is open at its first end 14 and second end 16. The tubular body 12 further includes a slit 26 extending axially between the first end 14 and the second end 16. The slit 26 may be axially aligned as it only extends in the axial direction. Alternatively, the slit 26 may simply have an axial extension and may also extend in the circumferential direction. The tubular body 12 is flexible and elastic such that it can be bent or deformed to open the axial slit 26. This increases the width of the slit 26 and increases the inner diameter of the tubular body 12, as Figure 5 shown.

[0066] As explained in more detail below, the bridging element 27 can be arranged to span at least a portion of the gap 26. However, the elastically deformable tubular body 12 remains discontinuous with the gap 26.

[0067] The tubular body 12 preferably includes a biasing member 28 which, when at rest and in an untensioned state, holds the tubular body 12 in a first closed position as shown, Figures 1 to 3 wherein the tubular body 12 has a first inner diameter and the axial gap 26 has a first width. The biasing member 28 can specifically be a spring member 28 (also identified as a spring element 28). However, any reference to the spring member 28 in this specification is equally applicable to the general biasing member 28. The first width can be very small or substantially zero, where the sides of the gap 26 are in contact with each other. For example, in a plan view, the axial gap 26 can extend no more than 90°, preferably no more than 60°, more preferably no more than 30°. The first inner diameter is sufficient to allow the tubular body 12 to surround and grip the shaft 70.

[0068] The tubular body 12 can be deformed to a second open position by bending to open the axial gap 26 to a second width greater than the first width in the circumferential direction, as shown Figure 5 in. This places the spring member 28 in a tensioned state and places the tubular body 12 in a second position where the tubular body 12 has a second inner diameter greater than the first inner diameter. The spring member 28 biases the tubular body 12 towards the first closed position. Once the deflecting force acting to open the axial gap 26 is removed, the fitting 10 returns to its first closed position, where the tubular body 12 returns to its first inner diameter and the axial gap 26 returns to its first width.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the spring member 28 includes a spring plate. The plate can be a rectangular elastic material which is bent into a tubular shape, leaving an axially extending opening 30 between its free ends, as shown Figure 4 such that it is generally C-shaped in a plan view. Preferably, the spring member 28 is formed of a metal such as spring steel which retains its tension over time (if loaded only within its elastic range). However, other elastic materials with a high yield strength can be used such that when the deflecting force acting to open the axial opening 30 is removed, the spring member 28 will return to its initial tubular shape.

[0070] If desired, the spring member 28 can be constructed in a different manner. For example, while Figure 4 a solid plate is shown, the spring member can be formed of a perforated plate having one or more openings in order to reduce weight. In Figures 10a to 10hVarious examples are shown in which the spring member 28 includes a plurality of circumferentially extending bands 28a, and the gaps between the axially extending bands are joined by one or more axially extending connecting rods 28b.

[0071] The connecting rod 28b may be formed at a position opposite to the axial slit 26, as in Figures 10a to 10c One pair of connecting rods 28b may be provided at the ends of the spring plate 28, defining an opening 30 therebetween, as in Figure 10e and Figure 10f In the example of. A plurality of connecting rods 28b may be provided, and the plurality of connecting rods are spaced apart circumferentially, as Figure 10d shown.

[0072] In Figure 10g and Figure 10h the spring plate 28 is provided with an array of perforations, such as circular or square / rectangular openings 28c.

[0073] Alternatively, the spring member 28 may include a series of separate C-shaped bands 28d, and the series of separate C-shaped bands are stacked on top of each other in the axial direction, as Figure 10i shown.

[0074] The spring member 28 may be completely encapsulated within a coating material 32, such as plastic or other polymer. The coating material may be a softer flexible coating material 32, such as plastic or other polymer. In other words, the spring member 28 may be embedded within the coating material 32.

[0075] The spring member 28 and the coating material 32 may be molded together as one body. This softer coating material 32 forms the outer surface of the tubular body 12, including the outer circumferential surface 18 and the inner circumferential surface 20. The softer coating material 32 protects the shaft 70 and may enhance the clamping of the tubular body 12 on the shaft 70. The coating material 32 may also be textured or shaped, for example having ribs on the outer circumferential surface 18 and / or the inner circumferential surface 20.

[0076] The annular projecting element 24 may be located at or near the first end 14, and may include a plurality of arms projecting radially outward from the tubular body 12. The arms may be identical to each other and are equidistantly spaced around the tubular body 12, but other configurations are also possible. A connecting web (not shown) may join adjacent arms to each other. Alternatively, in addition to spanning the axial slit 26, the projecting element 24 may include an annular collar extending around the circumference of the tubular body 12.

[0077] In all embodiments, the projecting element 24 may be made of an elastic polymeric material such as silicone. Thus, the projecting element 24 has some stiffness and is self-supporting, such that it maintains its shape while allowing some flexure when it contacts body tissue during use.

[0078] In use, the fitting 10 is fitted to the distal end of a shaft 70 of a medical device such as an endoscope, as Figure 9d shown. The first end 14 is located at the very distal end of the shaft 70. The second end 16 is located proximally of the shaft 70.

[0079] The fitting 10 may be provided in a retainer that facilitates fitting of the fitting to the shaft 70 of the medical device. As Figure 6a , Figure 6b and Figure 7 shown, the retainer may include a container 40 in which the fitting 10 may be stored prior to use. The container 40 may be generally cylindrical and include a flat circular base 42 and a peripheral wall 44 that together define a housing in which a lid may be located. An annular lip 48 may extend around the upper edge of the peripheral wall 44. In use, a peel-off lid (not shown) for the container 40 may be adhered to the lip 48.

[0080] One or more additional walls may be provided between the base 42 and the peripheral wall 44. In this example, a short vertical wall 46a is provided around the flat base 42, and an inclined wall 46b is provided between the vertical wall 46a and the peripheral wall 44. The base 42 and the short vertical wall 46a together define a shallow recess 50 in the base of the container 40 for receiving the first end 14 of the fitting 10 in use. The inclined wall 46 supports the projecting element 24 of the fitting 10 in use.

[0081] The container 40 is also provided with features for positioning the fitting 10 in its second open position within the container 40. In particular, a stop element 52 is provided that projects into the housing, and when the stop element is in its second open position, at least a portion of the stop element 52 fits within the axial slot 26 of the tubular body 12. This prevents the fitting 10 from springing back to its closed position under the action of the spring member 28. At least one positioning member 54 may be arranged opposite the stop element 52 to assist in correctly positioning the fitting 10 against the stop element 52. The said (or each) positioning member 54 may also be referred to as a positioning element 54.

[0082] The stop element 52 includes a body in the form of a generally rectangular post that projects radially from the peripheral wall 44 into the container 40 and projects upwardly from the base of the container 40 (in this example, including the base 42 and the additional wall 46). The body of the stop element 52 includes a pair of side walls 56 joined by an upper surface 58. The stop element 52 is formed on its radially inner side with a narrow nose 60 formed by side walls 66 that are joined to the side walls 56 of the body by shoulders 62. The end face 64 of the nose 60 that joins the side walls 66 and faces radially inward has a concave arcuate form.

[0083] AsFigure 6a As shown, the side walls 66 of the nose portion 60 can be parallel to each other and parallel to the side walls 56 of the body of the blocking element 52. Alternatively, in a variant of the container 40 as Figure 6b shown, the side walls 66 of the nose portion 60 can be non-parallel and can diverge from each other in a radially inward direction from the shoulder 62 towards the end face 64. When the fitting 10 is assembled in the container 40, this can help to hold the nose portion 60 more firmly within the slot 26 of the fitting 10, as discussed further below.

[0084] On opposite sides of the container 40, in this example, a pair of positioning members 54 are provided. Each positioning member 54 includes a protrusion that projects upward from the inclined wall 44 and the base 42 and extends a short distance into the recess 50.

[0085] The blocking element 52 projects upward to a first height that is generally approximately the same as the axial length of the fitting 10 received in the container 40. The positioning members 54 project upward to a second height that is less than the first height of the blocking element 52 and is typically about half of the first height.

[0086] In use, the fitting 10 is deflected to its open position and assembled into the container 40. The tubular body 12 is assembled between the blocking element 52 and the positioning members 54. The first end 14 of the tubular body 12 is received in the recess 50. The protruding element 24 is supported on the inclined wall 46. The nose portion 60 of the blocking element 52 is located within the slot 26. The curved end face 64 of the nose portion 62 follows the curvature of the inner circumferential surface 20 of the tubular body 12 so as to form a smooth circular opening into which the shaft 70 can be inserted. The positioning members 54 are assembled on either side of one of the protruding elements 24. Depending on the configuration of the protruding element 24, the number, shape, and position of the positioning members 54 can be changed to accommodate. In this way, the fitting 10 is firmly held in the container 40 in its open position until it is needed for use.

[0087] The fitting 10 can be stored in the container 40 in a sterile state, where a lid (not shown) is applied across the top of the container 40 and adhered to the lip 48 to seal the container 40. When the fitting 10 is needed for use, the lid is removed. As Figure 9a and Figure 9b shown, the distal end of the shaft 70 of the medical device is inserted into the tubular body 12. Since the tubular body 12 is held in the open position, the inner diameter of the fitting 10 is greater than the outer diameter of the shaft 70, and the shaft 70 can be easily inserted.

[0088] Then, the shaft 70 can be tilted to as Figure 9cOn the side shown, away from the blocking element 52 and towards the positioning member 54, so as to remove the nose 60 of the blocking element 52 from the gap 26. Since the height of the positioning member 54 is less than the height of the blocking element 52, such an inclined movement is possible. Once the nose 60 is removed from the axial gap 26, the spring member 28 pushes the tubular body 12 back to its first closed position with a reduced inner diameter. In this state, the fitting 10 clamps the shaft 70, and they can be removed together from the container 40, leaving the fitting 10 in place on the shaft 70 and ready for use, as Figure 9d shown. The container 40 can then be discarded.

[0089] When the fitting 10 is assembled on the shaft 70, the medical device can then be inserted into the patient's body. Typically, when examining the colon, for example, the shaft 70 of the medical device is advanced relatively quickly to the farthest point to be examined and then gradually retracted more slowly, during which most visual inspections are performed. As the shaft 70 is gradually retracted, the protruding element 24 is used to gently pull back and flatten the folds of the tissue to allow for a clearer view of the body tissue through the device.

[0090] At the end of the operation, the shaft 70 is fully retracted from the patient's body. The fitting 10 can then be removed from the shaft 70, for example by manually bending the tubular body 12 to open the axial gap 26 so that the fitting 10 can slide off the shaft 70. The fitting 10 can then be disposed of.

[0091] In the fitting 10 as Figures 1 to 10i shown, the gap 26 is open and axially aligned. Figures 11a to 21b Other examples of the fitting 10 with alternative designs are shown. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, each fitting 10 can include any modifications discussed herein.

[0092] Figure 11a and Figure 11b Another example of the fitting 10 is shown. With this fitting 10, a bridging element 27 is provided to span at least a portion of the gap 26. Specifically, the bridging element 27 can span the gap 26 in the circumferential direction. The bridging element can be between the opposite edges of the tubular body 12 that define the gap 26. The tubular body 12 (and in particular the spring member 28 if present) does not extend into this gap 26. Thus, the gap 26 can still be defined.

[0093] The bridging element 27 can extend along substantially the entire length of the gap 26, such as Figure 11a and Figure 11b shown. It can be at least 80%, 90% or even 95% of the length of the gap 26 or 100% of the length of the gap 26.

[0094] The bridging element 27 can be made of elastic and / or flexible material. That is to say, in particular, a material that is more elastic and / or flexible than the tubular body 12 and / or the spring element 28. The bridging element 27 can be elastically deformable. The bridging element can have a bias towards the first closed position. In this sense, the bridging element 27 can also be identified as the biasing element 28, that is to say, there can be no separate biasing element 28, and the bridging element 27 can be the biasing element 28.

[0095] When the tubular body 12 is in the first closed position as Figure 11a shown, the bridging element 27 spans the gap 26 in the circumferential direction. The bridging element 27 can be substantially stress-free in this position. The tubular body 12 can then be opened to the second open position. This opens the axial gap 26 and stretches the bridging element 27.

[0096] Figures 12a to 12c It is shown that the bridging element 27 can be formed as a sheet. For example, the bridging element can be formed as a sheet of the above-mentioned coating material 32 (with or without the spring element 28). In such an example, the spring element 28 can stop before the gap 26, where the coating material 32 continues to form the bridging element 27.

[0097] Of course, the sheet can be formed of a separate material attached to the tubular body 12. Generally, the sheet can be formed of any flexible material.

[0098] The sheet forming the bridging element 27 can be thinner than the tubular body 12. For example, the bridging element 27 can have a thickness less than 25% of the thickness of the tubular body 12, such as less than 15% or less than 10%.

[0099] Figure 13 Another exemplary fitting 10 with a sheet bridging element 27 is shown. The sheet bridging element includes one or more perforations. This means that in the axial direction, the bridging element 27 can be discontinuous. In other words, the bridging element 27 is formed by a plurality of bridging sections.

[0100] Such a fitting 10 can be formed by forming only the bridging sections in the manufacturing step. Alternatively, a continuous bridging element 27 can be formed and then the perforations can be cut from it.

[0101] Although Figure 13 this is shown with respect to the thin bridging element 27, the same applies to any bridging element 27 discussed herein.

[0102] Figures 14a to 14cAnother exemplary fitting 10 is shown, where the bridging element 27 has a thickness in the radial direction. This thickness can be 50% or greater of the thickness of the tubular body 12, such as 75% or greater or 85% or greater. In other words, the bridging element 27 substantially fills the gap 26 in the radial direction.

[0103] Similarly, the bridging element 27 can be formed of the same material as the coating material 32, or formed of a separate material attached to the tubular body 12.

[0104] In Figures 14a to 14c (and Figures 11a to 13 ), the bridging element 27 extends substantially along most of the length of the gap 26. Specifically, this length can be the axial length of the gap 26. For example, this length can be at least 75%, or at least 85%, or at least 90% of the length of the gap 26. In an example having a discontinuous bridging element 27, this length can be defined based on the sum of the lengths of the bridging segments (as a cumulative length), or defined as the measurement from the outermost end of the bridging segment closest to the first end 14 to the outermost end of the bridging segment closest to the second end 18.

[0105] Figures 15a to 15c An alternative arrangement is shown, where the bridging element 27 only spans a portion of the length of the gap 26. This portion can be less than 50% of the length of the gap 26, such as less than 25% or less than 10%. Otherwise, the bridging element 27 can be as discussed herein with respect to any fitting 10. Figures 15a to 15c An example of a thick bridging element is shown such as Figures 14a to 14c in, but this can equally apply to any bridging element discussed herein.

[0106] Figure 16 and Figure 17 An example of a fitting 10 with a discontinuous bridging element 27 is shown, the discontinuous bridging element 27 being thick, such as Figures 14a to 14c the bridging element. The bridging element 27 includes a plurality of bridging segments separated by perforations or gaps. Each bridging segment is spaced along the length of the gap 26.

[0107] Such a discontinuous bridging element 27 can be formed as discussed above with respect to Figure 13 .

[0108] Unless otherwise explicitly stated, any disclosure herein regarding the various bridging elements 27 can be used with any of the disclosed fittings 10.

[0109] Figures 18a to 21b Other examples of the fitting 10 are shown, where the shape of the gap 26 has been varied. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, any bridging element 27 discussed herein can be used with these different gaps 26.

[0110] Figure 18a and Figure 18b illustrates an example of a fitting 10 having a non-linear slot 26. This may also be defined as a serpentine slot 26, a meandering slot 26, an offset slot 26, or a hybrid slot 26. Critically, such a non-linear slot 26 includes at least a portion not only in the axial direction.

[0111] For example, Figure 18a and Figure 18b the fitting 10 of includes a first axial portion and a second axial portion having circumferentially connected portions. Thus, the first axial portion and the second axial portion are circumferentially offset from each other.

[0112] Likewise, the said or each axial portion need not be purely axial, but may also extend in the circumferential direction. The axial portion of the slot 26 may be defined as an axial portion that extends further in the axial direction than in the circumferential direction.

[0113] Likewise, the said or each circumferential portion need not be purely circumferential, but may also extend in the axial direction. The circumferential portion of the slot 26 extends further in the circumferential direction than in the axial direction. However, it should be understood that this need not necessarily be the case, and examples may be provided where the circumferential portion still extends more in the axial direction.

[0114] Figures 19a to 19b illustrates another example of a non-linear slot 26. The slot 26 includes a first axial portion at a first end 14 of the tubular body 12 and a second axial portion at a second end of the tubular body 12. In this example, the first axial portion and the section axial portion are circumferentially aligned, but this need not necessarily be the case. The first axial portion and the second axial portion may have the same length or different lengths from each other.

[0115] A third axial portion is disposed between the first axial portion and the second axial portion. The third axial portion is circumferentially offset from the first axial portion and the second axial portion. The third axial portion may have the same length as one or both of the first axial portion and / or the second axial portion, or may have a different length from one of the two.

[0116] A first circumferential portion extends between the first axial portion and the third axial portion. A second circumferential portion extends between the second axial portion and the third axial portion. The first circumferential portion and the second circumferential portion may be the same length or different lengths from each other.

[0117] The non-linear slot 26 may be substantially symmetric about an intermediate section of the tubular body 12.

[0118] Such a non-linear slit 26 can be combined with any bridging element 27, or indeed any other modification discussed herein.

[0119] Figures 20a to 20c An example of an angled slit 26 is shown. Specifically, the slit 26 can be angled with respect to the radial direction. This can be a first angle of at least 20°, preferably at least 30° or at least 45°.

[0120] In other words, the slit extends between an inner opening on the inner circumferential surface 20 and an outer opening on the outer circumferential surface 18. The inner opening and the outer opening are circumferentially offset from each other.

[0121] Such an angled slit 26 can be combined with any bridging element 27, or indeed any other modification discussed herein.

[0122] Figure 21a and Figure 21b An example of a slit 26 with a varying width is shown. Specifically, the slit 26 is wider towards the second end 16 of the tubular body 12 than at the first end 14 of the tubular body.

[0123] In this example, the slit 26 includes an axial portion which then expands outwards into a flared portion. The width of the flared portion increases in the direction of the second end 16 of the tubular body 12. Of course, examples with only the flared portion are also possible. Similarly, the width of the axial portion itself can increase in this direction - potentially at a slower rate than the flared portion.

[0124] A bridging element 27 can be provided. The bridging element can span the flared portion and / or the axial portion (and any section thereof) of the slit 26. The bridging element 27 can be as discussed with respect to any example herein.

[0125] It can be seen that in this exemplary fitting 10, there is a first slit 26 and a second slit 26. The first slit 26 and the second slit 26 are circumferentially opposite each other around the tubular body 12. Such an arrangement of the two slits 26 is equally possible for any slit 26 discussed herein. Indeed, arrangements with more than two slits 26 are also possible. In an example with N slits 26, the slits 26 can be arranged in N-fold rotational symmetry around the tubular body 12.

[0126] In Figure 21a and Figure 21b the exemplary fitting 10, each slit 26 does not extend along the entire axial extent of the tubular body 12. For example, this axial extent can be at least 75%, at least 80% or at least 90% of the axial length of the tubular body 12. In this sense, the slit 26 can be identified as a partial slit. Such partial slits can be used with any fitting 10 described herein.

[0127] The hinge section 29 is circumferentially aligned with each slit 26. The hinge section 29 is disposed at the first end 14 of the tubular body 12. This can be, for example, a flexible hinge. By hinging two portions of the tubular body 12 about the hinge section 29, the hinge section 29 allows the slit 26 to open. As Figure 21a and Figure 21b shown, the hinge section 29 may include a radial slit cut into the tubular body 12.

[0128] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides an improved fitting 10 for a shaft 70 of a medical device. The fitting 10 can be securely stored in a container 40 ready to be assembled onto the shaft 70 and, once in place, firmly holds the shaft 70.

[0129] As described above, in the present disclosure, the term "medical device" can refer to an endoscope, but the term is also intended to refer to any device suitable for insertion into a body cavity or lumen for performing visualization and / or treatment thereof. Thus, the term "medical device" is intended to cover any one or all of an endoscope, a gastroscope, a colonoscope, an enteroscope, a sigmoidoscope, a wide-field cystoscope, but this list is non-exhaustive. Endoscopy involves examining the interior of a body cavity or lumen and includes procedures known as arthroscopy, cystoscopy, gastroscopy, enteroscopy, and colonoscopy. Enteroscopy involves examining the small intestine including the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Such a device is an elongated flexible probe that can be inserted into the body directly or via a cannula or other guiding device. The medical device may also include a rigid surgical endoscope or endoscopic treatment devices such as biopsy forceps and polypectomy snares. The cover of the present disclosure can be used in combination with all of the above types of medical devices.

Claims

1. A cap for fitting onto the distal end of a shaft of a medical device, the cap comprising: a tubular body having a first end, a second end, an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface, an inner diameter, and at least one projecting element extending outwardly; and an axial slit in the tubular body, the axial slit extending at least partially between the first end and the second end, wherein the tubular body is movable between a first position and a second position, in the first position, the slit has a first width and the tubular body has a first inner diameter, in the second position, the width of the slit and the inner diameter of the tubular body increase, and wherein the tubular body is elastically biased from the second position towards the first position.

2. The lid according to claim 1, wherein, The axial slit extends the full length of the tubular body between the first end and the second end.

3. The lid according to claim 1, wherein The axial slit is a partial axial slit.

4. The lid according to claim 3, wherein, The tubular body includes a hinge section circumferentially aligned with the partial axial slit.

5. The cap according to any one of the preceding claims, the cap including a plurality of axial slits.

6. The cover according to claim 5, wherein, The axial slits are arranged rotationally symmetrically around the tubular body.

7. The lid according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The tubular body further includes at least one biasing member.

8. The lid according to claim 7, wherein The biasing member includes an elastic spring plate located between the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface of the tubular body.

9. The lid according to claim 8, wherein, The spring plate is perforated.

10. The cover according to claim 8 or 9, wherein The spring plate includes a plurality of circumferentially extending bands joined by at least one axially extending connecting rod.

11. The lid according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, The biasing member includes a plurality of separate circumferentially extending bands.

12. The lid according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein, The biasing member is formed of metal.

13. The cover according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein, The biasing member is embedded in a flexible coating material.

14. The cover according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein, The biasing member is molded integrally with the flexible coating material.

15. The lid according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The axial slit is non-linear.

16. The lid according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The axial slit is angled with respect to the radial direction of the tubular body.

17. The lid according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The width of the axial slit increases towards the second end of the tubular body.

18. The cap according to any one of the preceding claims, the cap further including a flexible bridging element spanning at least a portion of the axial slit.

19. The lid according to claim 18, wherein, The flexible bridging element is axially discontinuous.

20. A retainer for use with a lid as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The retainer includes a base and a sidewall, the base and the sidewall together defining a housing for receiving the cap, and the retainer further includes a blocking member projecting into the housing and configured to fit within the axial slit in the tubular body when the tubular body is in the second position to hold the tubular body in the second position.

21. The retainer according to claim 20, wherein, The blocking member includes a body having a nose, wherein the nose is narrower than the body and is configured to fit into the axial slit in the tubular body.

22. The retainer according to claim 20 or 21, the retainer further including at least one positioning member projecting into the housing opposite the blocking member.

23. The retainer according to claim 22, wherein, The blocking member extends upward from the base to a first height, the or each positioning member extends upward from the base to a second height, and the first height is greater than the second height.

24. The retainer according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein, The nose includes parallel sidewalls.

25. The retainer according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein, The nose includes bifurcated sidewalls.

26. The retainer according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein, The nose includes a concave end face.

27. A component, the component comprising a lid according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the lid being assembled into a holder according to any one of claims 20 to 26.

28. A method for assembling a cap to the distal end of a shaft of a medical device, the cap being the cap according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The lid is assembled into a holder according to any one of claims 20 to 26 such that the blocking member is located in the axial gap of the tubular body to hold the lid in the second position, and the method comprises: inserting a distal end of a shaft of a medical device into the tubular body, tilting the shaft to remove the blocking member from the axial gap and allowing the tubular body to return to the first position and grip the shaft, and removing the shaft and the lid from the holder.

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