Cover for a fiber optic endoscope

Abstract

Cover for a fiber optic endoscope, in particular for use in intubations, characterized in that the cover comprises two separate insertion channels, wherein - a first channel (channel 1) is provided for the insertion of a fiber optic endoscope, and - a second channel (channel 2) is provided for the insertion of a medical instrument such as a bougie, bronchial blocker or other intubation aid.

Description

Technical FieldThe invention relates to a medical reference for fiber-optical endoscopes, in particular for use in endotracheal intubation in the context of anaesthesia or emergency medicine.Prior ArtFiber optic intubation is an established method for securing airway in difficult anatomy. Frequently, additional auxiliary agents such as bougs, bronchiblockers or guide wires are required. However, simultaneous use of multiple instruments via a single endoscope is technically challenging and potentially risky.Object of the InventionThe object of the invention is to provide an instrument which allows the safe and coordinated introduction of a bronchoscope as well as an additional intubation aid - while maintaining sterile conditions, better controllability and flexibility for several users.Solution of the ProblemThe invention achieves this object by a cover with two separate channels:• Channel 1 is provided for the insertion of a flexible fiber optic bronchoscope.• Channel 2 is used for the parallel introduction of a medical auxiliary instrument, for example a bougie or bronchiblocker.Both channels may optionally be:• may be connected to each other over the entire length of the reference (e.g. by a common sheath), or• can be connected only in the proximal region and separate from one another in the distal region, in order in particular to be able to move channel 2 by a separate user with higher flexibility.At the proximal end of channel 1, a spiral-shaped structure ("spring") is optionally provided, which ensures elastic narrowing and fixing of the bronchoscope. This construction enables a tight guidance and prevents undesired slipping of the endoscope without impairing its function.The material of the cover is preferably made of flexible, medicinally suitable plastic and can be designed as a disposable or reusable design. The diameters of the channels can be adapted to the respective instruments.Advantages of the Invention• Parallel and coordinated operation with bronchoscope and auxiliary instrument• Increased flexibility in complex intubations• Possibility for Cooperation of Two Users (e.g. AnestheticIst+Assistenz)• Improvement of patient safety• Hygienic covering and easy handling• Lower Need for Instrument Switching during Critical Phases

Claims

Cover for a fiber-optical endoscope, in particular for use in intubations, characterized in that the cover comprises two separate insertion channels, wherein - a first channel (channel 1) is provided for inserting a fiber-optical endoscope, and - a second channel (channel 2) is provided for inserting a medical instrument such as a bougle, bronchiblocker or another intubation aid.Cover according to claim 1, characterised in that the two channels are either connected to each other along the entire length of the cover or are only connected at the proximal end and separate in the further course in order to allow channel 2 to be guided independently by a second user.Cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distal ends of the two channels are designed such that a specific and coordinated operation with both introduced components is possible.Cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover consists of a flexible, medically suitable plastic material.Cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover is designed as a disposable product or as a sterilisable product which can be used several times.Cover according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the channels have different diameters, adapted to the respective components to be introduced.Cover according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a helical structure ("spring") is provided at the proximal end of the channel 1, which structure allows elastic narrowing and fixing of the bronchoscope to be introduced and at the same time allows a certain flexibility in the advancement or retraction of the instrument.Cover according to claim 7, characterised in that the helical structure is made of an elastic material which ensures a tight guide without mechanical damage to the endoscope.

Images