Mirror adapter for flexible mirror

Abstract

A mirror adapter system (100) includes an adapter body (102) coupled to a handle of a mirror device, a rigid shaft (110), and a mounting mechanism (104) removably coupled to the shaft. The shaft includes a shaft lumen sized and shaped to slidably receive the flexible elongate member of the device. The distal end of the lumen is dimensioned such that when the distal end of the member is received therein, the distal end of the member is held in close fit such that the target of the shaft is aimed at the distal end of the member. The mechanism mounts the proximal end of the shaft to the body such that when the body is coupled to the handle, the mechanism is mounted on the body and coupled to the shaft, and the member is inserted into the lumen such that movement of the handle causes corresponding movement of the distal end of the member.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 499,050, filed April 28, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to mirror adapters, and more particularly to disposable mirror adapters that allow flexible mirrors to perform the same functions as rigid mirrors. Background Technology

[0004] During certain endoscopic procedures, both rigid and flexible endoscopic devices can be used. For example, during kidney stone surgery, a surgeon may use a rigid endoscope to guide the bladder, perform examinations, and place guides before using a flexible endoscope to access the ureter. However, endoscope devices require time to set up, and the support equipment occupies significant space in the operating room. Therefore, using fewer endoscope devices during endoscopic procedures would be easier, cheaper, and require less time. Thus, this disclosure provides an endoscope adapter that allows surgeons to use flexible endoscope devices as readily as rigid endoscope devices, thereby reducing the number of endoscope devices used during certain procedures. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates to a mirror adapter system for guiding a flexible mirror device toward a target region in a living organism. The system includes an adapter body configured to be coupled to a handle of a mirror device to be used with the mirror adapter system; furthermore, the system includes a rigid shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The rigid shaft includes a first shaft lumen extending therethrough. The first shaft lumen is sized and shaped to slidably receive a flexible first elongated member of the mirror device therein. The distal end of the first shaft lumen is sized such that when the distal end of the first elongated member is received therein, the distal end of the first elongated member is held in close contact, such that the rigid shaft is targeted toward the distal end of the first elongated member.

[0006] Furthermore, the system includes a mounting mechanism configured to be removably coupled to a rigid shaft. This mounting mechanism is configured to mount the proximal end of the rigid shaft to the adapter body, such that when the adapter body is coupled to the handle of the mirror device, the mounting mechanism is mounted on the adapter body and coupled to the rigid shaft, and a first elongated member is inserted into the first shaft cavity, such that movement of the handle causes a corresponding movement of the distal end of the first elongated member.

[0007] In one embodiment, the mounting mechanism includes a first port that aligns with a first shaft cavity when the mounting mechanism is coupled to a rigid shaft.

[0008] In one embodiment, the rigid shaft includes a second shaft lumen extending therethrough, and wherein the mounting mechanism includes a second port aligned with the second shaft lumen, and the second shaft lumen and the second port are configured to receive a second elongated member passing through therethrough.

[0009] In one embodiment, the mirror adapter system further includes a distal end that extends distally from a distal end of a rigid shaft and includes a first end lumen leading to a first shaft lumen and a second end lumen leading to a second shaft lumen to receive a second elongated member passing through therein, the first end lumen being configured to receive the first elongated member passing through therein.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first shaft lumen includes a slot extending from a distal end of the first shaft lumen to a proximal end of the first shaft lumen, the slot being sized to allow the first elongated member to be removed laterally through the slot from the first shaft lumen.

[0011] In one embodiment, the mirror adapter system further includes a retaining element selectively coupled to a proximal end of a rigid shaft, wherein the retaining element is configured to prevent movement of the first elongated member relative to the rigid shaft when coupled to the proximal end of the rigid shaft.

[0012] In one embodiment, the rigid shaft further includes a core member received within the rigid shaft to define a first shaft lumen, the core member being configured to receive a first elongated member passing through it in a close fit.

[0013] In one embodiment, the rigid shaft is a metal shaft that defines a first working channel and a second working channel, the first working channel being configured to receive a flexible first elongated member passing through it, and the second working channel being configured to receive a second elongated member passing through it.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first shaft cavity and the second shaft cavity communicate with each other, and the size of the opening between the first shaft cavity and the second shaft cavity is adapted to prevent the first elongated member from passing through it.

[0015] In one embodiment, the rigid shaft includes an outer member defining a single lumen and a core member inserted into the single lumen to divide the single lumen into a first shaft lumen and a second shaft lumen.

[0016] In one embodiment, the mirror adapter system further includes a coupling element located at the distal end of a rigid shaft, the coupling element including a first tube and a second tube, the first tube being sized and shaped to receive the rigid shaft therein, and the second tube being sized and shaped to receive a flexible first elongated member of the mirror assembly therein.

[0017] In one embodiment, the flexible first elongated member is configured to separate from the connecting element when a predetermined force is applied to remove the flexible first elongated member from the connecting element via a slot.

[0018] In one embodiment, the adapter body further includes a handle configured to rigidly snap onto the mirror assembly to allow the user to manipulate the rigid axis.

[0019] In one embodiment, the adapter body includes a first body portion and a second body portion, which are configured to be joined together around the handle of the mirror device to attach the adapter body to the handle of the mirror device.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to be connected to each other via a plurality of fastening features formed thereon.

[0021] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a method for treating in vivo tissue. The method includes attaching an adapter body to a handle of a flexible endoscope device; attaching the adapter body to a proximal end of a rigid shaft via a mounting mechanism including a first port aligned with a first axial lumen of the rigid shaft; inserting a flexible shaft of the flexible endoscope device into the first axial lumen such that a distal end of the flexible shaft is proximal to a distal end of the rigid shaft; guiding the rigid shaft and the flexible shaft toward a target region in the vivo body; and manipulating the adapter body to aim the flexible endoscope device in the vivo body.

[0022] In one embodiment, the method further includes advancing the flexible axial distal end beyond the distal end of the rigid shaft; and using a steering system of the flexible mirror device to operate a portion of the flexible shaft extending distally from the rigid shaft to approach a target region within the living body.

[0023] In one embodiment, the method further includes separating the flexible shaft from the rigid shaft via a slot in the rigid shaft leading to a first shaft lumen, while the flexible shaft remains within the living body; and removing the rigid shaft from the living body while the flexible shaft remains within the living body.

[0024] In one embodiment, the mounting mechanism includes a second port aligned with a second shaft lumen of a rigid shaft. The method further includes inserting a second elongated member through the second port and the second shaft lumen; moving the second elongated member through the second shaft lumen toward a distal end of the rigid shaft; displacing the second elongated member distally from the rigid shaft such that the distal end of the second elongated member is distal to the distal end of the rigid shaft; and guiding the second elongated member toward a target region. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of a mirror adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 2A-2D A perspective view of the distal end of a mirror adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Figure 3 A perspective view of a mirror adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Figures 4A-4C A perspective view of the distal end of a snap-fit ​​mirror adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0029] Figures 5A-5B A mirror adapter according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0030] Figures 6A-6B A mirror adapter according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0031] This disclosure can be further understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are indicated by like reference numerals. This disclosure relates to an endoscope adapter, and more particularly to a disposable endoscope adapter for flexible endoscope devices (such as cystoscopes and flexible nephroscopes). Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure describe an endoscope adapter having a rigid axis, having at least one lumen allowing the flexible endoscope to advance along the adapter lumen, and allowing the endoscope adapter to attach to the body of the endoscope device, such that the flexible endoscope can operate substantially similarly to a rigid endoscope. It should be noted that the terms "proximal" and "distal" as used herein refer to the user facing (proximal) and away from (distal) the device.

[0032] like Figure 1A-1B As shown, the endoscope adapter 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes an adapter body 102 and a rigid shaft 112. The adapter body 102 is configured to be releasably attached (e.g., rigidly coupled) to an endoscope device 110, such as an endoscope, ureteroscope, cystoscope, or nephroscope. In an exemplary embodiment, the endoscope device 110 is a LithoVue. TM Mirror assembly. As those skilled in the art will understand, the adapter body 102 may have different shapes for different mirrors. For example, the adapter body 102 may be shaped to assemble a corresponding mirror assembly 110, such that the mirror adapter 100 is ergonomically designed and releasably attached to the mirror assembly 110. The adapter body 102 further includes a mounting bracket 104 configured to allow the rigid shaft 112 to be mounted onto the adapter body 102.

[0033] Mounting bracket 104 may include one or more ports allowing a user to access the lumen of rigid shaft 112. In an exemplary embodiment, mounting bracket 104 has two ports 106, 108. In one exemplary embodiment, ports 106, 108 are characterized by Luer fittings or other features known to those skilled in the art for attaching devices. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, mounting bracket 104 may be configured such that rigid shaft 112 can be rigidly coupled to adapter body 102. This allows a user to precisely move rigid shaft 112 and the flexible shaft of mirror device 110 inserted into rigid shaft 112 by manipulating a handle of mirror device 110 coupled to adapter body 102.

[0034] A rigid shaft 112 extends from a proximal end 114 of a mounting bracket 104 rigidly coupled to the adapter body 102 to a distal end 116. The rigid shaft 112 may be releasably or permanently coupled to the mounting bracket 104. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end 118 is located at the distal end 116 of the rigid shaft 112. The rigid shaft 112 includes at least one lumen extending from the distal end 116 to the proximal end 114, the lumen including openings at both the proximal end 114 and the distal end 116. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 112 includes two lumens extending from the distal end 116 to the proximal end 114, both lumens being open at both the proximal end 114 and the distal end 116.

[0035] In one exemplary embodiment, the lumen of the rigid shaft 112 is configured to align with a port of the adapter body 102, such that a device inserted into the port (e.g., a mirror, imaging device, etc.) is guided to the corresponding aligned lumen, allowing the device to pass through the port and advance along the length of the lumen to the distal end 116 of the rigid shaft 112. As those skilled in the art will understand, the rigid shaft 112 can be of any length. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 112 is twelve inches long. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 112 is sized and shaped to be inserted into the human urethra. As those skilled in the art will understand, the rigid shaft 112 is sized and shaped to be inserted into any body orifice. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will understand, at least the lumen to receive the flexible mirror may be curved to facilitate the insertion of the flexible mirror.

[0036] like Figure 1A-1BAs shown, an exemplary embodiment of the system according to this disclosure includes a mirror adapter 100 configured to provide rigid mirror functionality to a flexible mirror, such as a mirror assembly 110, when needed. To provide rigid mirror functionality to the flexible mirror, a user can rigidly attach an adapter body 102 to the mirror assembly 110 (e.g., snap-fit, clip, screw, etc.). The user can rigidly attach the rigid shaft 112 to the adapter body 102 by inserting the proximal end 114 of the rigid shaft 112 into a mounting bracket 104.

[0037] Alternatively, the rigid shaft 112 may be permanently attached to the adapter body 102. As those skilled in the art will understand, flexible mirrors typically include elongated members configured for insertion into a natural body cavity. In this configuration, a user can coil the elongated member of the mirror assembly 110 or 310 so that the elongated member can be inserted into ports 106, 108, or 306 of the adapter body 102 or 302, such as... Figure 3 As shown. The elongated member of the mirror assembly 110 can then be advanced to the distal end 118 of the rigid shaft, where the distal end of the mirror assembly 110 can remain. In this configuration, the mirror assembly 110 can be used as a rigid mirror. When the rigid mirror function is no longer needed, the user can remove the mirror from the mirror adapter 100 and reuse the mirror assembly 110 as a flexible mirror. To remove the mirror adapter 100 from the mirror assembly 110, the user can remove the elongated member from the rigid shaft 112 by moving it proximally downward along the rigid shaft 112.

[0038] Once the elongated member is removed from the rigid shaft 112, the user can detach the adapter body 102 from the mirror assembly 110 (e.g., by prying open the clips, loosening, unscrewing, etc.). The user can then use the flexible mirror in the normal manner. Alternatively, the mirror adapter 100 can remain attached to the mirror assembly 110, and the elongated member of the flexible mirror can be pushed beyond the distal end 118 of the rigid shaft 112, thereby allowing the portion of the mirror beyond the distal end 118 to be used as a flexible mirror.

[0039] As those skilled in the art will understand, during use, the adapter body 102 remains outside the living body, while the rigid shaft 112 is configured to be inserted into the living body (e.g., via a naturally occurring body orifice) to provide access to a natural body cavity (such as the urethra or bladder) into which the rigid shaft 112 has been inserted. The rigid shaft 112 can be used in substantially the same manner as a rigid endoscope. The adapter body 102 includes two ports 106, 108 for accessing the lumen of the rigid shaft 112. An elongated member of the flexible endoscope can be inserted into either port 106, 108 and advanced through the lumen of the rigid shaft 112 until the distal end of the elongated member is located at the distal end 118 of the rigid shaft 112.

[0040] This can be done before or after the adapter 100 has been inserted into the target location within the body cavity. Another endoscopic device (e.g., a clamping device, biopsy device, imaging device, etc.) can then be inserted into the other port and advanced along the lumen of the rigid axis 112 that is not occupied by the endoscope, although such an additional endoscopic device is not essential for the operation of the system. Those skilled in the art will understand that the endoscope may also include a working channel through which devices and / or fluids can be delivered to the distal end 118 of the rigid axis 112.

[0041] like Figure 2A-2D As shown, an exemplary embodiment includes a rigid shaft 212, a distal end 216 of the rigid shaft, and a distal tip 218 located distal to the distal end 216 of the rigid shaft. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal tip 218 has a shape (e.g., tapered) that facilitates guidance of anatomical structures, such as a beak-like tip 220. However, as those skilled in the art will understand, any desired tip shape can be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal tip 218 is made of a biocompatible material, such as a molded polymer.

[0042] As those skilled in the art will understand, the distal end 218 may include a lumen opening at both the proximal and distal ends of the distal end 218, the lumen being aligned with the lumen of the rigid shaft 212 to allow a device advanced along the lumen of the rigid shaft 212 to advance along the lumen of the distal end 218 and approach the body cavity beyond the distal end 218. As those skilled in the art will understand, the lumen of the distal end 218 will have the same width and shape as the lumen of the rigid shaft 212, such that the lumen of the distal end 218 is aligned with the lumen of the rigid shaft 212 to define a continuous working channel.

[0043] The rigid shaft 212 includes at least one lumen extending along its entire length from a proximal end (not shown) to a distal end 216. Each lumen of the rigid shaft 212 is open at each end, allowing an apparatus (e.g., a scope, clamping device, biopsy device, imaging device, etc.) to enter the lumen at the proximal end and be advanced through the lumen of the rigid shaft 212 until it reaches the distal end 216 of the lumen and exits the lumen of the rigid shaft 212 to enter the distal end 218 lumen and / or enter a body cavity. In an exemplary embodiment, the scope 210 is advanced along the lumen and positioned such that the distal end of the scope 210 is held in the distal end 218 adjacent to the body cavity.

[0044] In this embodiment, the mirror functional components of mirror 210 (e.g., mirror imager, mirror working channel, etc.) can be used, while mirror 210 and rigid shaft 212 are used as a rigid mirror, for example, to take advantage of the higher aiming accuracy typically achievable with rigid mirrors. In an exemplary embodiment, rigid shaft 212 has two lumens 226, 228. In an exemplary embodiment, one of the lumens 226, 228 can be used to flush or aspirate solids and liquids at the working site (e.g., bladder drainage), while the mirror remains in the other lumen. The lumens 226, 228 can be of equal size, or the lumens 226, 228 can be of different sizes.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the size and shape of one of the lumens of the rigid shaft 212 are adapted to assemble the mirror 210, such that the mirror 210 is restricted to lateral and vertical movement while being able to move proximally and distally. In an exemplary embodiment, the size and shape of one of the lumens of the rigid shaft 212 allow both the mirror 210 and the mirror sheath to be advanced along the lumen of the rigid shaft 212. In an exemplary embodiment, the size and shape of one of the lumens of the rigid shaft 212 allow the endoscope device to be advanced along the lumen of the rigid shaft 212, the size and shape of which restrict lateral and vertical movement of the device while allowing proximally and distal movement, because this ensures that the target of the device inserted through the rigid shaft 212 is aimed according to the position and orientation of the rigid shaft 212.

[0046] As those skilled in the art will understand, the rigid shaft 212 can be made of any sufficiently biocompatible material. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 212 is a polymer extrusion and includes a metal core, such as a steel core 222, to provide the rigid shaft 212 with the desired stiffness (e.g., stiffness sufficient to prevent significant deflection along the length of the rigid shaft when subjected to lateral forces from tissue adjacent to a body cavity in which the rigid shaft 212 is located). In this embodiment, the steel core 222 is a steel tube having a lumen 226 extending through the entire length of the steel core 222, the lumen 226 being open at both ends of the steel core 222. In another exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 212 can be made entirely of metal, such as steel. The steel shaft 232 may include an insert 230 (e.g., a polymer insert) to define two lumens 226, 228. In an exemplary embodiment, the insert 230 is made of a polymer.

[0047] However, as those skilled in the art will understand, the insert can be made of any material sufficient to define two lumens 226, 228 within the steel shaft 232. In an exemplary embodiment, the steel core 222 or the insert 230 can extend from the proximal end of the rigid shaft 212 to the distal end 216 of the rigid shaft. In an exemplary embodiment ( Figure 2CThe steel core 222 or insert 230 extends beyond the distal end 216 of the rigid shaft. In this embodiment, the steel core 222 or insert 230 extends into the distal end 218 to provide rigidity and / or define two working channels within the distal end 218.

[0048] In another exemplary embodiment, the steel shaft 232 has a cavity 226, and the steel shaft 232 is shaped to define two working channels 236, 238 within the cavity 226. Figure 2D In this embodiment, the steel shaft 232 has an elongated oval cross-section with recesses (e.g., generally figure-eight shaped) on each long side to define two substantially circular working channels 236, 238 within the lumen 226. The described lumen shape of the steel shaft 232 is exemplary, and as those skilled in the art will understand, the steel shaft 232 can be any shape defining the two working channels, and this shape is designed to be non-invasive and minimize the cross-sectional area of ​​the rigid shaft 212 while including a lumen sized to accommodate a device intended for use therewith. In this embodiment, the steel shaft 232 may include a cover 234 to give the rigid shaft 212 a more ergonomic shape. As those skilled in the art will understand, the cover 234 can be applied by a heat-shrink process or any suitable process known in the art.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, a mirror adapter 300 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes an adapter body 302 and a rigid shaft 312. The adapter body 302 is releasably attached to a mirror device 310, forming a rigid connection therebetween. The adapter body 302 includes a mounting bracket 304 for rigidly mounting the rigid shaft 312 to the adapter body 302 and a port 306 for accessing a lumen of the rigid shaft 312. The adapter body 302 may also include a handle 308 rigidly attached to the adapter body 302, which allows a user to grip the mirror adapter 300 for ergonomic use of the mirror device 310 and the mirror adapter 300. The mirror adapter 300 may be attached to any part of the mirror device 310. The handle 308 of the mirror adapter 300 may be located on any part of the adapter body 302.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the mirror adapter 300 is attached to the middle portion of the mirror assembly 310. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle 308 is located directly proximal to the mounting bracket 304. In this embodiment, the handle 308 is substantially in line with the rigid shaft 312, allowing the user to easily and intuitively manipulate the rigid shaft 312 by manipulating the handle 308. The handle 308 can be of any shape. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle 308 can be a rod attached to the adapter body 302 via a post located in the middle of the rod or any other connecting structure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the connecting structure can be connected to any part of the handle 308 and to any part of the adapter body 302. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle 308 is detachable from the adapter body 302.

[0051] like Figures 4A-4C As shown, a mirror adapter 400 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a rigid shaft 412. In this exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 412 includes a steel core 422 and a snap-fit ​​element 440. In this exemplary embodiment, the steel core 422 is a steel tube having a lumen extending through the entire length of the steel core 422, the lumen being open at both ends of the steel core 422. In this exemplary embodiment, the steel core 422 is made of steel; however, as those skilled in the art will know, any material (e.g., other metals, certain polymers, etc.) can be used to provide the rigid shaft 412 with the desired stiffness (e.g., stiffness sufficient to prevent significant deflection along the length of the rigid shaft when subjected to lateral forces from tissue adjacent to a body cavity in which the rigid shaft 412 is located). The snap-fit ​​element 440 may be located at the distal end of the rigid shaft 412. In an exemplary embodiment, the snap-fit ​​element 440 has a lumen 428 and a slot 426. The lumen 428 is sized and shaped to receive the steel core 422 within the lumen. In an exemplary embodiment, the steel core 422 can be tightly fitted into the cavity 428, such that the steel core 422 and the snap-fit ​​element 440 are rigidly attached.

[0052] As those skilled in the art will understand, the steel core 422 may be permanently or releasably attached to the snap-fit ​​element 440. The slot 426 is sized and shaped to receive the flexible mirror assembly 410 within the slot. In an exemplary embodiment, the size and shape of the slot 426 allow the mirror assembly 410 to be restricted to lateral and vertical movement while being movable proximally and distally. In one exemplary embodiment, the slot 426 may include an opening on its lateral side, the size and shape of which allow the mirror assembly 410 to be removed from the slot 426 of the snap-fit ​​element 440 through the lateral opening.

[0053] like Figures 4A-4CAs shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a user can attach a mirror adapter 400 to the mirror device 410 by inserting the distal end of the mirror device 410 into the proximal end of the slot 426 and advancing the mirror device 410 to the distal end of the slot 426. Alternatively, the user can insert the mirror device 410 into the slot 426 through a lateral opening in the slot 426. In this exemplary embodiment, the user firmly presses the distal portion of the elongated member of the mirror device 410 into the lateral opening in the slot 426 until the mirror device 410 is snapped into the slot 426. Once the mirror device 410 is in the slot 426 of the rigid shaft 412, the mirror device 410 and the mirror adapter 400 can be inserted into the target cavity and used as a rigid mirror.

[0054] When a user wants to use the mirror device 410 as a flexible mirror, the user can leave the mirror device 410 inside the body cavity and move the rigid axis 412 proximally, thereby retracting the rigid axis from the body cavity without retracting the mirror device 410, as shown. Figure 4C As shown. Once the rigid shaft 412 is outside the body cavity, the user can remove the mirror device 410 from the rigid shaft 412 by removing the mirror device 410 from the slot 426 of the snap-fit ​​element 440 through a lateral opening in the slot 426. The user can remove the mirror device 410 by peeling the snap-fit ​​element 440 off the mirror device 410. Once the mirror device 410 has been removed from the rigid shaft 412, the mirror device can be used again as a flexible mirror. This embodiment allows the user to switch the mirror device 410 from a rigid mirror function to a flexible mirror function while leaving the mirror inserted in the body cavity. By leaving the mirror device 410 in the body cavity, the user saves a significant amount of time because the user does not have to insert the mirror device (or two separate mirror devices) into the body cavity twice.

[0055] like Figures 5A-5B As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the mirror adapter 500 includes an adapter body 502 and a rigid shaft 512. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter body 502 includes two adapter body members 542, 544. The adapter body members 542, 544 are sized and shaped such that they can be assembled around the mirror assembly 510 and subsequently removed to form an adapter body 502 rigidly coupled to the mirror assembly 510. As those skilled in the art will understand, the adapter body 502 and the adapter body members 542, 544 can have different shapes for different mirrors; for example, the adapter body 502 can be shaped to assemble a corresponding mirror assembly 510 such that the mirror adapter 500 is ergonomically designed and releasably attached to the corresponding mirror assembly 510. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter body members 542, 544 can be substantially mirror images of each other.

[0056] As those skilled in the art will understand, the adapter bodies 542, 544 may be of different sizes and shapes and may include different features. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter bodies 542, 544 may be press-fitted together, and the adapter bodies 542, 544 may include features for rigidly attaching the adapter bodies 542, 544 to each other and to the mirror assembly 510. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter bodies 542, 544 may have a pin 546 for securing the adapter bodies 542, 544 to the mirror assembly 510. As those skilled in the art will understand, the adapter bodies 542, 544 may use other features to secure the adapter bodies 542, 544 to the mirror assembly 510 individually or in combination with the pin 546, such as adhesives, grooves, clips, press fits, sockets, etc.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, when the adapter body 502 is assembled around the mirror assembly 510, the adapter body may include two ports 506, 508 for accessing a lumen of the rigid shaft 512 and a mounting bracket 504 for rigidly attaching the rigid shaft 512 to the adapter body 502. The adapter body 502 may include gripping features 548 to assist a user in gripping the mirror adapter 500 and the mirror assembly 510.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, a user can attach the mirror adapter 500 to the mirror assembly 510 by placing the end of the rigid shaft 512 in the mounting bracket 504. The user can then place one of the adapter bodies 542, 544 onto the mirror assembly 510, and then place the second of the adapter bodies 542, 544 onto the mirror assembly. The user can then press the two adapter bodies 542, 544 together to form the adapter body 502. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter bodies 542, 544 are snapped together and no further fastening is required. In an exemplary embodiment, the user can use a bolt 546 or other fastening features to fasten the adapter bodies 542, 544 to the mirror assembly 510 and / or to each other.

[0059] As those skilled in the art will understand, flexible endoscopes typically include an elongated member configured for insertion into a natural body cavity. Once the user has attached the endoscope adapter 500 to the endoscope assembly 510, the user can coil the elongated member of the endoscope assembly 510 and insert it into one of the ports 506, 508. Once inserted, the elongated member of the endoscope assembly 510 can be advanced to the distal end of the rigid shaft 512, and the endoscope assembly 510 can be used as a rigid endoscope assembly. When the endoscope adapter 500 is attached to the endoscope assembly 510, another endoscope assembly (e.g., a clamping device, a biopsy device, an imaging device, etc.) can be inserted into another port 506, 508 and advanced along the lumen of the rigid shaft 512 not occupied by the endoscope, although such an additional endoscope assembly is not necessary for the operation of the system.

[0060] When the rigid mirror function is no longer needed, the user can remove the mirror from the mirror adapter 500 and reuse the mirror assembly 510 as a flexible mirror. To remove the mirror adapter 500 from the mirror assembly 510, the user can remove the elongated member from the rigid axis 512 by moving it proximally along the rigid axis 512. Once the elongated member is removed from the rigid axis 512, the user can remove the adapter body 502 by separating the adapter bodies 542, 544 from each other and from the mirror assembly 510. Once removed, the mirror assembly 510 can be reused as a flexible mirror.

[0061] like Figures 6A-6B As shown, a mirror adapter 600 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a rigid shaft 612 and an adapter body 602. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter body 602 has a mounting bracket 604 including a socket 650. The socket 650 is sized and shaped to receive the proximal end 614 of the rigid shaft 612. In an exemplary embodiment, the socket 650 may have a shape corresponding to the imprint of the proximal end 614 of the rigid shaft 612. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter body 602 may include two adapter body members (e.g., Figure 5A (as shown in the examples), in this embodiment, each adapter body may have a socket 650 configured to receive a proximal end 614 of a rigid shaft 612 when the adapter bodies are coupled together. In this exemplary embodiment, the proximal end 614 of the rigid shaft 612 is received within the socket 650 such that the rigid shaft 612 is rigidly coupled to the adapter body 602, and the rigid shaft 612 does not move independently of the adapter body 602.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid shaft 612 may have a retaining element 652 at its proximal end 614, the size and shape of which are adapted to prevent the rigid shaft 612 from moving when the retaining element 652 is installed in the socket 650. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining element 652 of the rigid shaft 612 may be rectangular in shape. As those skilled in the art will understand, the retaining element 652 may be of any shape (e.g., circular, square, triangular, irregular shape, etc.), which effectively prevents the rigid shaft 612 from moving independently of the adapter body 602 when the rigid shaft 612 is received in the socket 650.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, a rigid shaft 612 extends from a distal end 616 to a proximal end 614. The rigid shaft 612 may include a lumen 626 extending through its length and opening at both the proximal and distal ends 614 and 616. The rigid shaft 612 may include a slot 628 extending along its entire length and opening at both the proximal and distal ends 614 and 616. The slot 628 may be substantially tubular, with a portion of its wall extending to the outside of the tube. In an exemplary embodiment, the size and shape of the slot 628 allow elongated members of the flexible mirror device to be inserted into and moved proximally and distally through the slot 628, while being restricted in lateral and vertical movement.

Claims

1. A mirror adapter system for guiding a flexible mirror device toward a target region in a living organism, comprising: An adapter body configured to be attached to the handle of a mirror device to be used with the mirror adapter system; A rigid shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the rigid shaft including a first shaft lumen extending therethrough, the first shaft lumen being sized and shaped to slidably receive a flexible first elongated member of the mirror device therein, the distal end of the first shaft lumen being sized such that when the distal end of the first elongated member is received therein, the distal end of the first elongated member is held in close contact, such that the target of the rigid shaft is aimed at the distal end of the first elongated member; and A mounting mechanism is configured to be removably coupled to the rigid shaft, the mounting mechanism being configured to mount the proximal end of the rigid shaft to the adapter body such that when the adapter body is coupled to the handle of the mirror device, the mounting mechanism is mounted on the adapter body and coupled to the rigid shaft, and the first elongated member is inserted into the first shaft cavity such that movement of the handle causes a corresponding movement of the distal end of the first elongated member.

2. The mirror adapter system according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting mechanism includes a first port, which is aligned with the cavity of the first shaft when the mounting mechanism is connected to the rigid shaft.

3. The mirror adapter system according to claim 2, wherein, The rigid shaft includes a second shaft cavity extending therethrough, and the mounting mechanism includes a second port aligned with the second shaft cavity, and the second shaft cavity and the second port are configured to receive a second elongated member passing through therethrough.

4. The mirror adapter system according to claim 3, further comprising: The distal end extends distally from the distal end of the rigid shaft and includes a first end lumen leading to the first shaft lumen and a second end lumen leading to the second shaft lumen to receive a second elongated member passing through therethrough, the first end lumen being configured to receive the first elongated member passing through therethrough.

5. The mirror adapter system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The first shaft cavity includes a slot extending from the distal end of the first shaft cavity to the proximal end of the first shaft cavity, the slot being sized such that the first elongated member can be laterally removed from the first shaft cavity through the slot.

6. The mirror adapter system according to any one of claims 1-5, further comprising: A retaining element is selectively coupled to the proximal end of the rigid shaft, wherein the retaining element is configured such that when coupled to the proximal end of the rigid shaft, it prevents movement of the first elongated member relative to the rigid shaft.

7. The mirror adapter system according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The rigid shaft further includes a core member received within the rigid shaft to define a first shaft lumen, the core member being configured to receive the first elongated member passing through it in a close fit.

8. The mirror adapter system according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The rigid shaft is a metal shaft that defines a first working channel and a second working channel, the first working channel being configured to receive the flexible first elongated member passing through it, and the second working channel being configured to receive the second elongated member passing through it.

9. The mirror adapter system according to claim 3, wherein, The first shaft cavity and the second shaft cavity communicate with each other, and the opening between the first shaft cavity and the second shaft cavity is sized to prevent the first elongated member from passing through it.

10. The mirror adapter system according to claim 9, wherein, The rigid shaft includes an outer member defining a single lumen and a core member inserted into the single lumen to divide the single lumen into a first shaft lumen and a second shaft lumen.

11. The mirror adapter system according to claim 5, further comprising: A connecting element located at the distal end of the rigid shaft, the connecting element comprising a first tube and a second tube, the first tube being sized and shaped to receive the rigid shaft therein, and the second tube being sized and shaped to receive a flexible first elongated member of the mirror assembly therein.

12. The mirror adapter system according to claim 11, wherein, The flexible first elongated member is configured to separate from the connecting element when a predetermined force is applied to remove the flexible first elongated member from the connecting element via the slot.

13. The mirror adapter system according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The adapter body further includes a handle configured to rigidly snap onto the mirror assembly to allow a user to manipulate the rigid axis.

14. The mirror adapter system according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein, The adapter body includes a first body portion and a second body portion, which are configured to be joined together around the handle of the mirror device to connect the adapter body to the handle of the mirror device.

15. The mirror adapter system according to claim 14, wherein, The first main body portion and the second main body portion are configured to be connected to each other via a plurality of fixed features formed thereon.

Images