Device and kit for examining a body body

Abstract

A device (1) for examining a body cavity comprises a dilator body (2) and a gripping element (4) having an elongate shape applied or applicable to an end of the dilator body (2), arranged transversely with respect to the dilator body and being graspable by an operator. The device (1) comprises a support element (5) configured to define a reversible connection with the examination group (1000), the support element being connected to the gripping element (4) and being movable along the gripping element (4) towards and / or away from the dilator body (2). The inspection group (1000) comprises an acquisition device and a lighting device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for examining a body cavity and a kit for examining a body cavity including such a device.

[0002] The present invention is advantageously applied to the field of pathological diagnosis related to human natural or surgically obtained body cavities or orifices, and to the diagnosis performed by visually examining the tissues defining the body cavities and orifices.

[0003] In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention is advantageously applied to the field of anorectal and vaginal examinations. Thus, the device which is the object of the present invention preferably but not exclusively has alternative embodiments of an anoscope, a proctoscope, a rectoscope, and a vaginal speculum. Background Art

[0004] Examination devices including a dilator body and a guide body are known in the prior art.

[0005] The dilator body is hollow and has a tubular extension between a distal opening and a proximal opening, the distal opening being for visually and operatively approaching the mucosa defining the body cavity, and the proximal opening being accessible by the operator during use.

[0006] In detail, the guide body also has a tubular extension between a distal end having a generally oval shape and a proximal end that can be held by the operator.

[0007] The guide body is configured to be coupled to the dilator body by sliding the guide body inside the dilator body until the oval end of the guide body protrudes from the distal end of the dilator body, so that the shape of the outer wall of the resulting device facilitates the insertion of the device into the patient's body cavity.

[0008] During the examination procedure, after the connection between the dilator body and the guide body, the operator inserts the examination device into the patient's body cavity, and then withdraws the guide body from the dilator body, so that the dilator body remains inserted inside the body cavity and allows visual access, and thus allows the examination of the mucosa through the (relative to the operator) distal opening of the dilator body.

[0009] The known dilator body can be coupled to detection instruments (such as a camera or a illuminator) respectively configured to detect images and to illuminate the body cavity to be examined.

[0010] It is currently known that such a connection is obtained directly at the proximal opening (relative to the operator) once the dilator body is correctly positioned in the patient's body cavity.

[0011] This procedure is not very effective for the operator and is also uncomfortable for the patient.

[0012] To overcome these drawbacks, it is known to provide a support member for an inspection device that is coupled to an illuminator and is disposed directly within a volume defined by a dilator body.

[0013] In other words, the support member is positioned between the dilator body and the introducer body such that after the inspection device has been inserted into a patient's body cavity and the introducer body has been withdrawn, the operator can perform the inspection without manually coupling the dilator body to an external support.

[0014] Disadvantageously, these solutions do not provide for the use of a camera and thus exclude the possibility of acquiring diagnostic images.

[0015] Furthermore, disadvantageously, in the normal case where the operator has to inspect the entire mucosa facing the dilator body and the distal opening of the dilator body, the known solutions are not very practical.

[0016] Disadvantageously, the result is that the inspection procedure is not very efficient for the operator and is a lengthy examination for the patient.

[0017] In addition, the known solutions disadvantageously prevent the operator from making an overall observation of the mucosa facing the distal opening of the dilator body and / or the side wall adjacent to the dilator body. Thus, the known solutions make the inspection difficult.

[0018] Moreover, disadvantageously, the known solutions are not very sustainable because the illuminator disposed inside the dilator body needs to be replaced after each use and is particularly discarded together with the inspection device since it is inserted into the patient's body cavity together with the dilator body.

[0019] Therefore, the known devices are not only less practical, but also costly and have poor sustainability. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Therefore, the technical task of the present invention is to provide an inspection device and kit that can overcome the drawbacks arising in the prior art.

[0021] The object of the present invention is to provide an inspection device and kit that are effective and practical for the operator.

[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide an inspection device and kit with reduced costs.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide an inspection device and kit that are sustainable.

[0024] The specific technical task and the specific object are substantially achieved by an inspection device and kit including the technical features disclosed in one or more of the appended claims.

[0025] In particular, the device comprises a dilator body having a main extension along a longitudinal axis between a proximal end and a distal end.

[0026] The proximal end and the distal end are connected by a side wall and together with the side wall define an internal volume.

[0027] More specifically, the proximal end identifies a proximal opening and the distal end identifies a distal opening for accessing tissue defining a body cavity from the internal volume.

[0028] The device comprises a guide body which, in use, can be removably applied to the dilator body. In particular, the guide body can be slidably inserted into and disengaged from the internal volume through the proximal opening.

[0029] The device comprises a gripping element having an elongated shape which is applied or can be applied to the proximal end of the dilator body and is arranged transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0030] The gripping element can be held by an operator.

[0031] The device comprises a support element which is arranged externally with respect to the internal volume defined by the dilator body to support an inspection set externally with respect to the internal volume and can move along the gripping element towards and / or away from the proximal end of the dilator body.

[0032] In detail, the inspection set comprises at least one acquisition device and at least one illumination device.

[0033] Advantageously, the device is universal because, in order to perform an inspection, the operator has to connect the inspection set to the support element without having to connect an external support to the proximal opening of the inspection device.

[0034] Furthermore, due to the support element, the device allows the operator to make an overall observation of the patient's mucosa.

[0035] Advantageously, the device is also universal because the operator can position the inspection set with respect to the proximal opening by acting on the support element.

[0036] Advantageously, the device is sustainable and economical because at least the inspection set is reusable since the inspection set is supported externally with respect to the internal volume defined by the dilator body.

[0037] Preferably, the device comprises a guiding element which is defined on or removably applied to the gripping element and is configured to guide the movement of the support element along a predetermined path which extends along the gripping element itself.

[0038] Advantageously, the guiding element allows for convenient adjustment of the positioning of the inspection group relative to the proximal opening of the dilator body.

[0039] Preferably, the guiding element includes a plurality of locking members that define a corresponding plurality of predetermined positions in which the plurality of locking members hold the support element along the grasping element.

[0040] Preferably, the locking member includes a protrusion defined on the guiding element.

[0041] Advantageously, the locking member allows for immediate adjustment of the positioning of the inspection group relative to the proximal opening of the dilator body.

[0042] Preferably, the support element is capable of sliding along the grasping element between an insertion position, a collection position, and an observation position, in which the support element is disposed at a distal position relative to the proximal opening in the insertion position, at a proximal position relative to the proximal opening in the collection position, and between the insertion position and the collection position in the observation position.

[0043] Advantageously, the insertion position allows for the dilator body to be inserted into the patient's body cavity in a convenient manner, since the support element is disposed at a position spaced apart from the dilator body.

[0044] Advantageously, the collection position allows for the acquisition of an image of the patient's body cavity in a convenient manner, since the operator can observe the acquired image without worrying about the positioning of the inspection group, particularly the positioning of the acquisition device, due to the support element that supports the inspection group.

[0045] Advantageously, the observation position allows the operator to visually observe the patient's body cavity in a convenient manner, since the operator can observe the body cavity without worrying about the positioning of the inspection group, particularly the positioning of the lighting device, due to the support element that supports the inspection group.

[0046] Advantageously, the device allows for the examination of the patient's body cavity using different methods (naked eye, on a screen), thus allowing for in-depth examination.

[0047] The present invention also provides an inspection kit for a body cavity.

[0048] The kit includes the device, the inspection group, and a portable battery that is connected or connectable to the inspection group.

[0049] Thus, the kit includes the device, at least one acquisition device, at least one lighting device, and a portable battery that is connected or connectable to the acquisition device and the lighting device.

[0050] The dependent claims correspond to possible embodiments of the present invention.

[0051] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the indicative and thus non - limiting description of the embodiments of the inspection device and the inspection kit including such device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] Such a description will be elaborated below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative and thus non - limiting purposes only, in which:

[0053] - Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an inspection kit according to the present invention is shown;

[0054] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 a schematic longitudinal section of the kit of

[0055] - Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 a schematic longitudinal section of the kit of

[0056] - Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 a schematic longitudinal section of the kit of

[0057] - Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 a schematic front - view exploded perspective view of the kit of

[0058] - Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 a rear - view exploded view of DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0059] Referring to the accompanying drawings, reference numeral 1 generally denotes an inspection device, which for simplicity will be referred to in this specification as "device 1".

[0060] Device 1 is preferably an anoscope, a proctoscope or a rectoscope for inspecting the anal or rectal cavity of a patient.

[0061] Alternatively, device 1 is a vaginal speculum for inspecting the vaginal cavity of a patient.

[0062] However, devices suitable for inspecting different body cavities, natural or surgically obtained, within a patient are not excluded.

[0063] The terms "distal" and "proximal" will be used in this specification. Unless otherwise stated, these terms are intended to be relative to the operator. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the term "proximal" is intended to mean the part furthest from the patient, while the term "distal" is intended to mean the part closest to the patient.

[0064] Reference Figure 1 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the device 1 according to the present invention comprises a dilator body 2 and a guide body 3.

[0065] The dilator body 2 is shaped to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient on which an examination is to be performed.

[0066] The dilator body 2 has an elongated extension connected by a side wall 23, in particular between a proximal end 21 and a distal end 22, along a longitudinal axis X.

[0067] In other words, the dilator body 2 has a substantially tubular shape.

[0068] In a non-exclusive embodiment, the side wall 23 extends from the distal end 22 to the proximal end 21 in a divergent manner.

[0069] Advantageously, the divergent extension of the side wall 23 facilitates the dilation of the body cavity to be examined and thus the insertion of the dilator body 2 into the body cavity itself.

[0070] The side wall 23 is preferably made of a transparent material, more preferably a plastic material.

[0071] Specifically, the side wall 23, together with the proximal end 21 and the distal end 22, defines and delimits an internal volume V.

[0072] The proximal end 21 of the dilator body 2 defines a corresponding proximal opening PO, which faces the internal volume V and is accessible by an operator.

[0073] In a non-exclusive embodiment, the proximal opening PO is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X along which the dilator body 2 extends.

[0074] Similarly, the distal end 22 defines a corresponding distal opening DO, which faces the internal volume V and is configured to allow access to the tissue and the mucosa defining the body cavity from the internal volume V.

[0075] Preferably, the distal opening DO is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X.

[0076] Preferably, the proximal opening PO and the distal opening DO have a substantially circular shape.

[0077] Referring to the guide body 3, the guide body includes a gripping portion 31 and an insertion portion 32 (as Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown).

[0078] The gripping portion 31 is accessible or grippable by an operator. Specifically, the gripping portion 31 is shaped to allow the operator to grip and manipulate the guide body 3.

[0079] The insertion part 32 is connected to the grasping part 31 and has an elongated extension along the corresponding extension axis.

[0080] In particular, the insertion part 32 extends between the insertion end 33 and the grasping part 31, the insertion end having a substantially oval shape and being distal with respect to the grasping part 31.

[0081] The insertion part 32 is configured to be inserted into the internal volume V defined by the dilator body 2 to obtain the assembled configuration of the device 1 that can be easily inserted into the body cavity to be explored as Figures 1 to 4 shown in.

[0082] In order to allow the easy insertion of the dilator body 2 into the interior of the body cavity to be probed, the dilator body 2 and the guide body 3 are thus assembled together.

[0083] Specifically, the assembled configuration is obtained by inserting the guide body 3 into the internal volume V of the dilator body 2 preferably along the longitudinal axis X through the proximal opening PO.

[0084] The insertion of the guide body 3 inside the internal volume V of the dilator body 2 occurs by the sliding of the insertion part 32 inside the dilator body 2 (in particular along the inner surface 231 of the side wall 23 that internally delimits the dilator body 2). In other words, the inner surface 231 is the surface that delimits the side wall 23 and faces the internal volume V.

[0085] For example but not exclusively, the inner surface 231 may have one or more sliding guides (not shown in the figures), and the insertion part 32 may be coupled to the aforementioned sliding guides. Thus, the sliding guides allow the sliding of the insertion part 32 to be guided along the inner surface 231, advantageously ensuring the convenient insertion of the guide body 3 into the internal body V.

[0086] In particular, the insertion part 32 is introduced into the internal volume V of the dilator body 2 until the end-of-travel position, in which the insertion end 33 protrudes from the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown.

[0087] As a result, the device 1 in the assembled configuration has an elongated extension that diverges from the insertion end 33 of the guide body 3 towards the proximal end 21 of the dilator body 2.

[0088] In addition, the device 1 in the assembled configuration has no edges or discontinuous elements outside the internal volume V that could make the insertion and positioning of the device 1 in the patient's body cavity uncomfortable or painful.

[0089] According to a non-exclusive embodiment, the introducer body 3 may include a locking element (not shown in the drawings), which is configured to reversibly constrain the introducer body 3 to the dilator body 2 when the introducer body 3 is fully inserted inside the dilator body 2.

[0090] Therefore, the aforementioned locking elements of known types in the art allow the introducer body 3 to be maintained constrained to the dilator body 2 during the insertion of the device 1.

[0091] In other words, due to the locking element, the dilator body 2 together with the introducer body 3 inserted inside the internal volume V can be advantageously inserted by the operator into the patient's body cavity with one hand, without the risk of the introducer body 3 moving relative to the dilator body 2 in a direction different from the insertion direction during the insertion into the body cavity, due to, for example, the resistance exerted by the muscle structures surrounding the patient's body cavity.

[0092] When the insertion into the patient's body cavity is complete, the introducer body 3 is removed from the dilator body 2 following a withdrawal trajectory opposite to the insertion trajectory, as Figure 2 schematically shown in.

[0093] In other words, the insertion portion 32 of the introducer body 3 moves parallel to the longitudinal axis X, so that the introducer body 3 (in particular the insertion portion 32) is withdrawn from the internal volume V by sliding.

[0094] The device 1 includes a grasping element 4 that is applied or can be applied to the proximal end PO of the dilator body 2.

[0095] In the non-exclusive embodiment shown in the drawings, the grasping element 4 and the dilator body 2 together define a single integral body.

[0096] Alternatively, in another non-exclusive embodiment, the grasping element 4 is removably connected to the proximal end PO of the dilator body 2.

[0097] In particular, the grasping element 4 has an elongated shape and extends along a main extension axis W transverse to the longitudinal axis X.

[0098] In other words, the grasping element 4 is arranged transversely with respect to the dilator body 2.

[0099] The grasping element 4 can also be grasped by the operator.

[0100] In other words, the grasping element 4 is a handle that is inclined at an angle between 1° and 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis X.

[0101] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the device 1 comprises a support element 5 configured to define a reversible connection with the inspection group 1000, which inspection group is in particular provided with at least one acquisition device 100 and at least one lighting device 200.

[0102] The inspection group 1000 can be defined, for example, by a single body provided with the acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200.

[0103] The support element 5 is arranged externally with respect to the internal volume V and is movable along the gripping element 4 towards and away from the dilator body 2.

[0104] Preferably, in order to allow the easy movement of the support element 5 along the gripping element 4, the support element 5 comprises an activation zone 50 that can be gripped by the operator.

[0105] For example, as shown in the figures, the activation zone 50 can be obtained in the form of a slider 50' configured to allow the operator to activate the sliding of the support element 5 along the gripping element 4 by means of an action of the finger on the slider 50'.

[0106] Preferably, in order to define the connection with the acquisition device 100, the support element 5 comprises an acquisition seat 53 (shown in Figures 2 to 5 ) configured to receive the acquisition device 100 by insertion.

[0107] Preferably, in order to define the connection with the lighting device 200, the support element 5 comprises a lighting seat 54 (shown in Figures 2 to 5 ) configured to receive the acquisition device 100 by insertion.

[0108] More specifically, the support element 5 is arranged externally with respect to the internal volume V so as to support the inspection group 1000 externally with respect to said internal volume V.

[0109] As a result, thanks to the support element 5, the inspection group 1000 (i.e., the acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200) is positioned outside the body cavity itself during the inspection (i.e., when the dilator body 2 is inserted inside the body cavity of the patient).

[0110] In other words, thanks to the support element 5, the acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200 do not come into contact with the patient's mucous membrane or any secretions produced by said mucous membrane.

[0111] Therefore, advantageously, the device 1 is sustainable because the device does not require the replacement and disposal of the inspection group 1000 after each use.

[0112] Specifically, the support element 5 is connected to the gripping element 4 and is movable along the gripping element 4 towards and / or away from the dilator body 2.

[0113] As a result, after the dilator body 2 has been inserted into the patient's body cavity and the introducer body 3 has been removed from the internal volume V, the operator must directly connect the inspection unit 1000 to the support element 5 without the need to couple the proximal opening PO to an external support when inserting the dilator body 2 into the patient's body cavity, which coupling is difficult for the operator and uncomfortable and painful for the patient.

[0114] Furthermore, in order to more deeply examine / image the patient's body cavity, the operator can position the support device 5 (and thus the acquisition device 100 and the illumination device 200) relative to the dilator body 2, in particular relative to the proximal opening PO of the dilator body, as required (e.g., by acting on the slide 50').

[0115] Thus, advantageously, due to the support element 5, the device 1 is universal.

[0116] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a guiding element 6 arranged at the gripping element 4.

[0117] In particular, the guiding element 6 is configured to guide the movement of the support element 5 along a predetermined path that extends along the gripping element 4.

[0118] In other words, due to the guiding element 6, the operator can move the support element 5 in a convenient manner during the performance of an examination of the patient.

[0119] Preferably, the predetermined path extends parallel to the main extension axis W of the gripping element 4.

[0120] According to one aspect of the invention, the guiding element 6 is defined on the gripping element 4.

[0121] In other words, the guiding element 6 and the gripping element 4 define a single entity.

[0122] For example, the guiding element 6 is obtained in the form of at least one guide rail 6a defined on the gripping element 4 (in particular along the main extension axis W of the gripping element), as Figure 1 and Figure 6 shown.

[0123] Alternatively, the guiding element 6 is applied to or can be applied to the gripping element 4 in a removable manner, in other words, the guiding element 6 and the gripping element 4 can be connected to or disconnected from each other.

[0124] For example, the guiding element 6 is obtained in the form of at least one guide rail 6a that is applied to the gripping element 4 in a removable manner, in particular along the main extension axis W of the gripping element.

[0125] According to one aspect of the present invention, the guiding element 6 defines a respective channel 61 that delimits a predetermined path.

[0126] For example, the guiding element 6 is a recess obtained on the gripping element 4 along the main extension axis W, or (in the non-exclusive embodiment shown in Figure 1 and Figure 6 ), the channel 61 is delimited by a pair of guiding rails 6a that are applied or can be applied to the gripping element and face each other and are parallel.

[0127] More specifically, the support element 5 includes an interconnecting portion 51 for connecting to the gripping element 4, in particular to the guiding element 6, and a connecting portion 52 for connecting to the inspection group 1000.

[0128] In particular, the interconnecting portion 51 is inserted into the channel 61 and slides along the channel 61 itself and / or is coupled to the guiding rails 6a.

[0129] For example, the interconnecting portion 51 is obtained in the form of a pin that is intended to be inserted into the channel 61 and slide along the edge of the channel 61 itself (i.e., along the guiding rails 6a).

[0130] Preferably, the interconnecting portion 51 includes a slider 50' that is accessible to the operator (for example, in a position opposite to the channel 61).

[0131] On the other hand, the connecting portion 52 is arranged outside the channel 61 and is configured to support the acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200 outside the channel 61.

[0132] For example, the connecting portion 52 may include a bracket intended to receive the inspection group 1000, and an upright portion connecting the interconnecting portion 51 and the connecting portion 52. Alternatively, the connecting portion 52 may include a first bracket adapted to support the acquisition device 100 and a second bracket adapted to support the lighting device 200.

[0133] According to the embodiment shown in the drawings, an acquisition seat 53 and a lighting seat 54 are defined on the connecting portion 52 and, in detail, penetrate the connecting portion 52.

[0134] According to a non-exclusive embodiment, the support element 5 includes an adapter 55 that is configured to define a reversible connection with the inspection group 1000 (i.e., with the acquisition device 100 and with the lighting device 200).

[0135] Thus, the adapter 55 includes the acquisition seat 53 and the lighting seat 54.

[0136] According to a non-exclusive embodiment, the adapter 55 can be removed from the support element 5. For example, the support element 5 may include an insertion seat for the adapter 55 in its connecting portion 52.

[0137] According to another variant, the adapter 55 can be connected to the interconnecting portion 51 of the support element 5 and can be disconnected from the interconnecting portion of the support element.

[0138] According to another variant, the connecting portion 52 defines the adapter 55.

[0139] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the guiding element 6 includes a locking member B which is configured to define a plurality of predetermined positions for holding the support element 5 along the gripping element 4.

[0140] In other words, the support element 5 is configured to move "in jerks" along the gripping element 4 at least between a first locking member B and a second locking member B that is directly successive to the first locking member.

[0141] Thus, the locking members B are distributed along the gripping element 4, i.e., along the guiding element 6.

[0142] In other words, the support element 5 is configured to move in a "jerky" motion between successive locking members B.

[0143] For example, with reference to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the locking member B can include a plurality of protrusions 62, and the support element 5 is provided with a protrusion L (shown in Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) which is intended to rest on the protrusions 62 to define a predetermined position of the support element 5 and to slide along the protrusions 62 during the sliding of the support element 5 along the gripping element 4 to define a passage between a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position.

[0144] In other words, due to the protrusions 62, the support element 5 can move "in jerks" between predetermined positions.

[0145] Preferably, as shown in the drawings, the protrusions 62 are obtained in the form of teeth arranged inside the channel 61 or in the form of teeth obtained on the guide rail 6a.

[0146] Advantageously, the positioning dimensions of the protrusions 62 can be determined to allow the operator to make minimal adjustments during the examination of the patient's body cavity.

[0147] More specifically, the support element 5 slides along the gripping element 4 between an insertion position, a collection position and an observation position.

[0148] Thus, the locking member B is configured to define an insertion position, a collection position and an observation position for holding the support element 5 along the gripping element 4. In the insertion position, asFigure 2 As shown, the support element 5 is arranged in a distal position relative to the dilator body 2, in particular in a distal position relative to the proximal opening PO.

[0149] Advantageously, the insertion position allows for an easy and convenient insertion procedure of the dilator body 2 inside the patient's body cavity. In particular, the operator can insert the dilator body 2 (into the patient's body cavity) and withdraw the guide body 3 without being hindered by the support element 5 when the insertion of the dilator body 2 is completed.

[0150] In the acquisition position, as Figure 4 shown, the support element 5 is arranged in a proximal position relative to the dilator body 2, in particular in a proximal position relative to the proximal opening PO.

[0151] Thus, after the dilator body 2 has been inserted into the patient's body cavity and the guide body 3 has been detached from the internal volume V, the operator can move the support element 5 upward along the grasping element 4 to the acquisition position, connect the inspection group 1000 (i.e., the acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200) to the support element 5, and acquire an image of the patient's body cavity in a convenient manner.

[0152] Thus, the device 1 advantageously allows for the convenient acquisition of an image of the patient's body cavity.

[0153] Advantageously, the time associated with the examination of the patient's body cavity is shorter.

[0154] In the observation position, as Figure 3 shown, the support element 5 is arranged between the insertion position and the acquisition position.

[0155] Thus, in order to visually observe the patient's body cavity with the naked eye, i.e., without the assistance of the acquisition device 100, the operator can move the support element 5 from the insertion position to the observation position, or from the acquisition position to the observation position, in a simple and convenient manner.

[0156] The acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200 can be removably connected to the support element 5, so that when the support element 5 is in the observation position, the operator can remove the acquisition device 100.

[0157] Advantageously, in addition to facilitating the acquisition of an image of the patient's body cavity, the device 1 also allows for a directional observation of the patient's body cavity (with the naked eye).

[0158] Due to the possibility of the support element 5 moving between the acquisition position and the observation position, the operator can advantageously alternate between a visual inspection (with the naked eye) of the patient's body cavity by positioning the support element 5 in the observation position and an inspection on the screen (with the aid of the acquisition device 100) by positioning the support element 5 in the acquisition position.

[0159] In other words, the device 1 allows for an in-depth examination of the patient's body cavity.

[0160] In yet other words, the device 1 allows for the examination of the patient's body cavity using different methods (visually and on a screen).

[0161] To allow for the correct illumination of the patient's mucous membrane by operating the illumination device 200 connected to the support element 5 both in the illumination position and the acquisition position, the inner surface 231 is preferably embossed to deflect or diffuse the light beam generated by the illumination device 200.

[0162] More specifically, to allow for examination using different methods, in the acquisition position, the acquisition seat 53 of the support element 5 extends along a corresponding acquisition axis Y (schematically shown by an arrow in Figure 4 that passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2, while in the acquisition position and the illumination position, the illumination seat 54 of the support element extends along a corresponding illumination axis Z that at least passes through the proximal opening PO of the dilator body 2 (schematically shown by an arrow in Figure 3 and Figure 4 ).

[0163] Preferably, in the acquisition position and the illumination position, the illumination axis Z also passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2.

[0164] In particular, the acquisition seat 53 is configured to receive by insertion an acquisition device 100 oriented along a corresponding acquisition direction ( Figure 4 shown in the same direction as the acquisition axis Y in

[0165] ). Thus, according to the embodiment shown in the drawings, the acquisition direction is parallel to and coincides with the acquisition axis Y.

[0166] According to an additional alternative embodiment not shown in the drawings, the acquisition direction is parallel to the acquisition axis Y and does not coincide with the acquisition axis Y, or is incident with respect to the acquisition axis Y.

[0167] The acquisition seat 53 is configured to receive by insertion an acquisition device 100 oriented along a corresponding acquisition direction such that in the acquisition position, the acquisition direction passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2 and is incident with respect to the longitudinal axis X.

[0168] In other words, the acquisition direction at least partially passes through the interior of the internal volume V in the acquisition position, thereby allowing the operator to image the internal volume V with the aid of the acquisition device 100.

[0169] The collection seat 53 is also configured to receive, by insertion, a collection device 100 oriented along a respective collection direction such that, in the insertion position, the collection direction neither passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2 nor is incident relative to the longitudinal axis X.

[0170] Thus, in the insertion position, the collection direction is completely independent of the internal volume V because, in this position, the operator inserts the device 1 inside the patient's body cavity.

[0171] Preferably, the collection seat 53 is configured to receive, by insertion, a collection device 100 oriented along a respective collection direction such that, in the viewing position, the collection direction also neither passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2 nor is incident relative to the longitudinal axis X.

[0172] Thus, in the viewing position, the collection direction is preferably completely independent of the internal volume V because, in this position, the operator "visually" observes the internal volume (without the assistance of the collection device 100).

[0173] Referring to the illumination seat 54, the illumination seat is configured to receive, by insertion, an illumination device 200 oriented along a respective illumination direction ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 the same direction as the illumination axis Z shown in

[0174] Thus, according to the embodiment shown in the drawings, the illumination direction is parallel to the illumination axis Z and coincides with respect to the illumination axis.

[0175] According to an additional alternative embodiment not shown in the drawings, the illumination direction is parallel to the illumination axis Z and does not coincide with respect to the illumination axis, or is incident with respect to the illumination axis Z.

[0176] The illumination seat 54 is configured to receive, by insertion, an illumination device 200 oriented along a respective illumination direction such that, in the collection position and the illumination position, the illumination direction passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2 and is incident relative to the longitudinal axis X.

[0177] In other words, in the collection position and the viewing position, the illumination direction at least partially passes inside the internal volume V, thereby allowing the operator to illuminate the internal volume V by means of the illumination device 200.

[0178] The illumination seat 54 is also configured to receive, by insertion, an illumination device 200 oriented along a respective illumination direction such that, in the insertion position, the illumination direction neither passes through the distal opening DO of the dilator body 2 nor is incident relative to the longitudinal axis X.

[0179] Thus, in the insertion position, the illumination direction is completely independent of the internal volume V because in this position the operator inserts the device 1 into the patient's body cavity.

[0180] The term "completely independent" is intended to mean that the acquisition / illumination direction does not pass through the interior of the internal volume V.

[0181] The present invention also provides an inspection kit for a cavity.

[0182] The kit includes the device 1 and the inspection group 1000, namely the acquisition device 100 and the illumination device 200.

[0183] Preferably, the acquisition device 100 is in the form of an optical fiber camera.

[0184] Preferably, the illumination device 200 is made in the form of an optical fiber illuminator.

[0185] The kit further includes a portable battery 300 which is connected or connectable, for example, by a specific cable to the acquisition device 100 and / or the illumination device 200.

[0186] Preferably, the portable battery 300 is connected or connectable to both the acquisition device 100 and the illumination device 200.

[0187] For example, the battery 300 can be the battery of a portable device such as a computer or a tablet, so that the kit can be used universally.

[0188] Advantageously, the portable battery 300 allows the kit to have a lower cost and be easy to use.

[0189] Furthermore, since the portable battery 300 is external and separate from the internal volume V of the dilator body 2, the dilator body does not have to be discarded after each use, so the kit is sustainable.

[0190] According to one aspect of the present invention, due to the support element 5, when the acquisition device 100 and the illumination device 200 are connected to the support element 5, the center of gravity of the kit in the use configuration is located proximal to the support element 5.

[0191] Advantageously, the kit thus allows the operator to support and move the kit in a convenient manner.

[0192] Advantageously, the present invention is able to overcome the drawbacks that occur in the prior art.

[0193] Advantageously, due to the support element 5 and also due to the guiding element 6, the device 1 allows for a convenient inspection of the patient's body cavity, thus allowing an examination of the patient to be carried out that is not overly uncomfortable and of limited duration.

[0194] Furthermore, advantageously, since the locking member B includes, for example, the protrusion 62, the device 1 allows for convenient adjustment of the positions of the acquisition device 100 and the lighting device 200.

[0195] In addition, the device 1 and the kit are sustainable.

Claims

1. An inspection device (1) for a body cavity, comprising: - An expander body (2) having a main extension along a longitudinal axis (X) between a proximal end (21) and a distal end (22), wherein the proximal end (21) and the distal end (22) are connected by a side wall (23) and together with the side wall (23) define an internal volume (V), wherein the proximal end (21) defines a proximal opening (PO), and wherein the distal end (22) defines a distal opening (DO) for accessing tissue defining the body cavity from the internal volume (V); - A guide body (3) which can be removably applied to the expander body (2) in use, in particular, the guide body (3) can be slidably inserted into the internal volume (V) through the proximal opening (PO) and can be detached from the internal volume; - A gripping element (4) having an elongated shape, applied or capable of being applied to the proximal end (21) of the expander body (2), wherein the gripping element (4) is arranged transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis (X), and wherein the gripping element (4) can be held by an operator, characterized in that the device (1) comprises a support element (5), the support element being configured to define a reversible connection with an inspection group (1000), wherein the support element (5) is arranged outside the internal volume (V) defined by the expander body (2) to support the inspection group (1000) outside with respect to the internal volume (V), and wherein the support element (5) is connected to the gripping element (4) and can move along the gripping element (4) towards and / or away from the proximal end (21), the inspection group (1000) comprising at least one acquisition device (100) and at least one illumination device (200).

2. The device (1) according to claim 1, comprising a guiding element (6), the guiding element being arranged at the gripping element (4) and configured to guide the support element (5) along a predetermined path, the predetermined path extending along the gripping element (4).

3. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The guiding element (6) is defined on the gripping element (4), and the guiding element (6) is preferably in the form of at least one guide rail (6a) defined on the gripping element (4).

4. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein The guiding element (6) is removably applied to the gripping element (4), and the guiding element (6) is preferably in the form of at least one guide rail (6a) which is removably applied to or can be applied to the gripping element (4).

5. The device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The guiding element (6) defines a channel (61) defining the predetermined path, and wherein the support element (5) comprises: - An interconnecting portion (51) inserted into the channel (61) and sliding along the channel, and - A connecting portion (52) extending transversely with respect to the channel (61) or with respect to the interconnecting portion (51) and configured to support the inspection group (1000).

6. The device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The guiding element (6) includes a locking member (B) configured to define a corresponding plurality of predetermined positions in which the locking member holds the support element (5) along the gripping element (4). The locking member (B) preferably includes a plurality of protrusions (62).

7. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support element (5) slides along the gripping element (4) between an insertion position, a collection position, and an observation position: - In the insertion position, the support element (5) is arranged in a distal position relative to the proximal opening (PO) of the dilator body (2); - In the collection position, the support element (5) is arranged in a proximal position relative to the proximal opening (PO) of the dilator body (2); - In the observation position, the support element (5) is arranged between the insertion position and the collection position.

8. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support element (5) includes: - A collection seat (53) configured to receive the collection device (100) by insertion during use, - A lighting seat (54) configured to receive the lighting device (200) by insertion during use.

9. The device (1) according to claims 5 and 8, wherein, The collection seat (53) and the lighting seat (54) are defined on and extend through the connection portion (52).

10. The device (1) according to claim 8 or 9 when dependent on claim 7, wherein: - In the collection position, the collection seat (53) extends along a corresponding collection axis (Y) passing through the distal opening (DO) of the dilator body (2), - In the collection position and the lighting position, the lighting seat (54) extends along a corresponding lighting axis (Z) passing at least through the proximal opening (PO) of the dilator body (2). The lighting axis (Z) preferably also passes through the distal opening (DO) of the dilator body (2).

11. The device (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The collection seat (53) defines a collection direction parallel or coincident with the collection axis (Y) during use, and the collection seat is configured to receive the collection device (100) of the inspection group (1000) oriented along the corresponding collection direction by insertion during use; the collection direction or the collection axis (Y): - In the collection position, passes through the distal opening (DO) of the dilator body (2) and is incident relative to the longitudinal axis (X), and - In the insertion position, does not pass through the distal opening (DO) of the dilator body (2) and is not incident relative to the longitudinal axis (X).

12. The device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The lighting seat (54) defines a lighting direction parallel or coincident with the lighting axis (Z) during use, and the lighting seat is configured to receive the lighting device (200) of the inspection group (1000) oriented along the corresponding lighting direction by insertion during use; The lighting direction or the lighting axis (Z): - In the collection position and the lighting position, passes through the distal opening (DO) of the dilator body (2) and is incident relative to the longitudinal axis (X), and - At the insertion position, it does not pass through the distal opening (DO) of the dilator body (2) and is not incident relative to the longitudinal axis (X).

13. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support element (5) includes an adapter (55) configured to define a reversible connection with the inspection group (1000), and the adapter (55) is removable from the support element (5).

14. An inspection kit for a body cavity, comprising: - The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; - An acquisition device (100) and an illumination device (200), reversibly connected to the support element (5) of the device (1); and - A portable battery (300), connected or connectable to the acquisition device (100) and the illumination device (200).

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