Mounting aid for positioning the probe within the application cap

Abstract

The present invention relates to a mounting aid (1) for attachment to an application cap (2) at the end of an endoscope (3), wherein the mounting aid (1) is provided and designed to guide a probe (4) into a predetermined position inside the application cap (2) and to fix the probe (4) in a defined position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mounting aid for attachment to an application cap / tip at the distal end of an endoscope, the mounting aid being provided and configured to position a probe at a predetermined position within the application cap and to arrange / fix the probe in a positionally defined manner.

Background Art

[0002] Plasma surgical procedures and plasma applicators and similar devices / instruments for their application are known. For example, plasma surgical procedures known as fulguration or spray coagulation, particularly for thermal hemostasis, have been used in surgery for over 50 years.

[0003] Here, plasma is generated only in air, i.e., mainly oxygen plasma and nitrogen plasma are generated. Both plasmas are known to be highly chemically reactive, causing carbonization and pyrolysis effects on tissue surfaces, and as a result, also causing tissue evaporation and smoke formation. These unintended side effects of fulguration or spray coagulation impede or inhibit the application of this plasma surgical procedure, particularly in endoscopic surgery.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to guide and position a probe within an application cap in order to enable safe and accurate treatment of a target tissue during argon plasma coagulation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] [[ID=X]]This problem is solved by a mounting aid provided as a positioning aid having the features of claim 1, a method of using the mounting aid having the features of claim 9, and a system having the features of claim 10.

[0006] Therefore, the mounting aid is provided for attachment to the application cap at the end of the endoscope, and the mounting aid is provided and configured to guide the probe to a predetermined position within the application cap, thereby positioning / fixing / arranging the probe in a positionally defined manner.

[0007] More specifically, a mounting aid is provided for attachment to an application cap at the distal end of an endoscope, and the mounting aid forms a cap contact structure for contacting or holding the application cap in a positionally defined manner, and a probe contact structure for contacting the distal end of the probe in a positionally defined manner. The probe contact structure is positioned relative to the cap contact structure so that the probe (particularly the distal end of the probe) can be guided to a predetermined position within the treatment opening edge of the application cap.

[0008] In other words, an endoscope mounting cap / application cap is provided, particularly for use in flexible endoscopes. This allows the probe to be guided and fixed during corresponding argon plasma coagulation by ensuring a defined position of the probe within the application cap. This means that the mounting aid is provided and configured such that the probe stops or is held in place when the probe is inserted or positioned within the application cap, preferably when it is inserted / introduced through an opening / cannula in the radial outer wall of the application cap.

[0009] In this configuration, the application cap (abbreviated as cap) is a cap-like structure at the distal end of an endoscope, configured for the application of a specific procedure, such as plasma surgery. The application cap may form the distal end of the endoscope, or it may be provided independently of the distal end of the endoscope and selectively attachable to it. The cap forms a cavity configured to accommodate a probe. Furthermore, the application cap may have a probe passage opening in its cap-like outer wall, preferably defined by a cannula protruding into the cavity, and configured for inserting the probe into the cavity from the radially outside. The probe passage opening is, in particular, a through-hole connecting the outside of the cap to the cavity.

[0010] The cap / probe contact structure is a three-dimensional geometric shape, such as a projection, edge, or recess / recess, and is configured for shape-fitting contact with the cap or probe. This has the advantage of allowing the probe to be positioned and secured in the correct location for each procedure / during each procedure. Furthermore, the above viewpoint has the advantage that the mounting aid can be applied to the application cap in a shape-fitting manner, and in particular can be secured, as a result of preventing accidental slippage.

[0011] Further aspects of the disclosure relating to dependent claims are described below. According to a preferred embodiment, the cap contact structure may form a distal cap contact surface and / or a lateral cap contact surface for the application cap. This means that the cap contact surfaces form stoppers in the distal and / or lateral directions (particularly with respect to the longitudinal axis / direction of the application cap). The application cap cannot move distally or laterally relative to the mounting aid due to their respective planar contacts. In other words, the distal cap contact surface functions as a direct contact surface for the treatment edge of the application cap surrounding the distal treatment opening, at least in part. In other words, the lateral cap contact surface functions as a direct contact surface / support surface for the treatment edge of the application cap surrounding the lateral / circumferential treatment opening, at least in part.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the probe contact structure may form a distal probe contact surface for the probe. This means that the probe contact structure forms a stopper in the distal direction (particularly with respect to the longitudinal axis / direction of the probe and / or the longitudinal axis / direction of the application cap). Planar contact prevents the probe from moving distally relative to the mounting aid.

[0013] In a further development of a preferred embodiment, the distal cap contact surface may be positioned distal to the distal probe contact surface. This means that, during installation, at least a portion of the application cap is positioned distal to the distal probe contact surface and therefore distal to the probe. In other words, the distal probe contact surface is offset from the lateral cap contact surface in a direction perpendicular to the lateral / circumferential treatment opening of the application cap.

[0014] In a further development of a preferred embodiment, the lateral cap contact surface may be positioned laterally from the distal probe contact surface. This means that, during installation, at least a portion of the application cap is positioned laterally to the distal probe contact surface and therefore laterally to the probe. In other words, the distal probe contact surface is offset from the distal cap contact surface in a direction perpendicular to the distal treatment opening of the application cap.

[0015] The mounting aid is preferably configured to include at least one stepped portion, preferably in the form of at least one groove into which at least one treatment opening edge of the application cap can be inserted. In other words, the cap contact structure is preferably provided in the form of a groove, at least a portion of which is configured to receive a treatment opening edge. The treatment opening edge is, in particular, the edge of the cap that defines the opening of the cavity of the cap.

[0016] Therefore, the treatment opening edge is, in particular, the edge / border of the treatment window of the application cap, which is provided to contact the target tissue during treatment. The treatment window or treatment opening edge preferably contacts the mounting aid when the mounting aid is used according to the method described later. Preferably, the treatment opening is oriented distally in the axial direction and laterally / downward in the radial direction, so that contact with the mounting aid is possible both distally and radially. In other words, the cavity of the cap is preferably open toward one side of the cap, particularly radially outward and / or toward the distal end face. In particular, the cap / cavity is open toward the side opposite to the probe passage opening. This has the advantage that the mounting aid can be slid and / or positioned correctly on the application cap in only one position.

[0017] It is advantageous that the groove conforms to the shape of the treatment opening edge of the application cap. In other words, the groove provided in the mounting aid is preferably configured to receive all or part of the treatment opening edge, so that the treatment window of the application cap is at least partially, preferably substantially completely, surrounded by the mounting aid.

[0018] Preferably, the groove is U-shaped. That is, the groove forms two legs (U-shaped legs) and a bottom (U-shaped bottom) connecting the end regions of the two legs to each other. In particular, the legs and bottom are continuous and connected. More preferably, the groove is configured to open outward towards the proximal edge or to open into an open region. In other words, the groove is configured to open towards the proximal end of the endoscope. In other words, the U-shaped legs of the groove are connected to the outer edge or open region at the proximal outer edge of the mounting aid. Here, the proximal treatment opening edge of the application cap preferably closes in correspondence with the open region of the mounting aid or contacts the proximal edge region of the application cap. The proximal edge region may be, for example, a substantially rectangular recess / recess region on the main surface of the mounting aid that is open towards the proximal edge of the mounting aid.

[0019] It is advantageous that the groove has an open region (e.g., a recess / recess) in the proximal direction, preferably extending over the outer edge which is substantially configured on the proximal side of the entire surface. Alternatively, the open region may extend over the central region of the outer edge which is configured on the proximal side, resulting in edges or protrusions remaining on both sides of the open region. In other words, the open region is configured to be large enough to accommodate the width of the proximal treatment opening edge of the application cap.

[0020] The open area is preferably a recess at the distal end of the mounting aid. More precisely, the open area may have a bottom that slopes proximal toward the lower surface of the mounting aid, as well as two lateral side walls and one proximal side wall. The proximal side wall of the open area may preferably function as a stopper for the lower distal application cap edge / treatment opening edge. The (lower) lateral application cap edge / treatment opening edge is preferably flush with or adjacent to the lateral side wall (bar / edge) of the open area.

[0021] Preferably, the mounting aid has a substantially plate-like body with a main surface on one side. The main surface is positioned opposite the application cap. The U-shaped bottom of the groove is configured to be elevated / projecting relative to the main surface of the mounting aid, preferably extending, for example, in an arc or gate shape on the main surface, and more preferably, the U-shaped legs of the groove are configured to be recessed relative to the main surface of the mounting aid. In other words, the U-shaped bottom of the groove is preferably elevated relative to the main surface of the mounting aid, so that the distal treatment opening edge of the application cap is flush with or in contact with the U-shaped bottom of the groove.

[0022] It is advantageous that the first projection, particularly the distal cap projection, is located distal to the probe contact structure. Particularly preferably, the first projection is substantially centrally located on the mounting aid and has a U-shaped bottom groove. In other words, the first projection is a bulge on the upper (main) surface of the mounting aid, curved to contact the curved proximal treatment opening edge of the application cap.

[0023] In other words, the mounting aid comprises a plate-like base having a main surface, on which at least one stepped portion is formed, the shape of which is configured to make positionally defined contact with the cap edge. The stepped portion may optionally taper or thicken the base toward its edge, for example, to form / surround a plateau or recess on the main surface. In particular, the stepped portion is provided as part of a groove into which the cap edge can be inserted. The shape of the stepped portion or groove follows a substantially oval shape in a plan view of the main surface. In particular, the shape of the stepped portion or groove follows a U-shape. Preferably, the stepped portion or groove is configured continuously, i.e., continuously U-shaped or oval. Alternatively, the stepped portion or groove may have multiple individual portions following such shapes.

[0024] Such a U-shape has two U-shaped legs extending in the distal-proximal direction and a U-shaped base connecting the distal ends of the U-shaped legs to each other. The U-shaped base is preferably configured to contact / receive the distal edge of the application cap. That is, the U-shaped base is configured on a first projection that rises on the main surface in a gate-like shape and is notched on the side away from the main surface to form the U-shaped base. The U-shaped legs are preferably parallel to each other in at least part (particularly the distal portion). More preferably, the U-shaped legs are adjacent to each other in the distal direction in at least part (particularly the proximal portion). The distal ends of the U-shaped legs are preferably curved toward each other. The distal ends of the U-shaped legs are preferably open into a proximal recess (open area) at the proximal edge of the base. In particular, the recess is configured as a notch, and as a result, the bottom of the recess and the distal side wall of the recess extend obliquely to the main surface of the base.

[0025] In other words, the step or groove is configured such that its shape substantially corresponds to the edge of a hollow cylinder cut obliquely, or such that such an edge can be held therein with a shape fit. More preferably, the proximal recess / open area is configured such that its shape corresponds to the proximal edge below a cylinder standing obliquely with respect to the main surface, or such that such an edge can be received therein with a shape fit.

[0026] Particularly preferably, the probe contact structure is configured inside the step or groove (i.e., the area surrounded by the step or groove). This ensures that the probe is positioned particularly accurately within the cavity of the application cap. Further, it is advantageous if the probe contact structure is formed on a second projection, particularly a probe positioning projection, which is arranged in a central area, particularly substantially centrally, between the proximal outer edge of the mounting aid and the first projection. The second projection is configured substantially nipple-shaped or button-shaped, particularly circularly, and is arranged on the mounting aid so as to receive the probe guided by the application cap when attached to the application cap.

[0027] Preferably, the application cap has a recess forming the probe contact structure, particularly at the second projection, and is adapted and configured to accommodate the probe, particularly the distal end of the probe, and to define the mounting end position of the probe. In other words, the probe is introduced through the probe passage opening / cannula of the application cap, and is pushed in until the probe abuts against the probe contact structure, particularly the recess, and the advancement stops. The cannula or the probe passage opening in the application cap is arranged and provided such that the introduced probe directly faces the second projection of the mounting aid. The recess is configured such that its radius and depth receive and stop the end of the probe at exactly one position. That is, preferably, the diameter of the probe passage opening / cannula is substantially equal to the diameter of the recess.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the mounting aid may form a probe positioning projection configured to project into the application cap through the treatment opening edge. In particular, the distal probe contact surface may be configured at the probe positioning projection.

[0029] According to a further development of the preferred embodiment, the recess may be configured at the probe positioning projection. It is advantageous if the mounting aid has a gripping part at its distal end, particularly at a position distal to the first projection, and is provided for pulling out the mounting aid from the application cap after positioning the probe.

[0030] It is advantageous if the gripping part is substantially plate-shaped, particularly circular, and is particularly preferably configured integrally with the mounting aid. The gripping part is preferably provided and configured so that the user can easily grip it in order to pull out the mounting aid in the proximal direction.

[0031] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method of using a mounting aid, preferably according to any of the claims, providing or positioning the mounting aid on the application cap, preferably on the treatment opening of the application cap, so as to contact the application cap at a position where the cap contact structure of the mounting aid is defined; inserting the probe into the application cap until the probe abuts against the probe contact structure of the mounting aid, particularly the recess, preferably the probe positioning projection (second projection); fixing the probe on the application cap with an adhesive strip; removing / stripping off the mounting aid from the application cap, preferably via the gripping part of the mounting aid.

[0032] In other words, the application cap is attached to the tip of the endoscope and functions as a guide for the probe. The cap is configured to fit commercially available flexible endoscopes, and its outer diameter is preferably 9.2–10.5 mm. After the application cap is attached, the endoscope cover is secured to the tip of the endoscope and wrapped around the endoscope. The endoscope cover is used to protect tissue during insertion into the body and to better guide the probe along the endoscope. A mounting aid is pressed or positioned on the application cap and is used to correctly position the probe within the application cap. After the mounting aid is positioned on the edge of the treatment opening, the probe is advanced further to the cap through a cannula with the endoscope cover. The probe is guided into the opening of the application cap and advanced further until it contacts the mounting aid. The probe is then secured in this position on the cap by the included adhesive strip, and the mounting aid is then removed / pulled out, preferably via the gripping portion of the mounting aid.

[0033] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a system comprising an application cap and a mounting aid according to any embodiment of the claims, wherein the mounting aid is configured to be slidably / attachable to the application cap and provided and configured to guide a probe to a predetermined position within the application cap and to fix the probe in a positionally defined manner. In other words, an application system for positioning a probe within an application cap may be provided, the system comprising the mounting aid as described above, and an application cap or an endoscope having a tip forming an application cap, wherein the application cap forms a cap-shaped outer wall, the outer wall defines a cavity having a treatment opening, and further forms a probe passage opening that opens into the cavity at a point opposite to the treatment opening. The application cap may be the application cap described above, or may have the characteristics thereof. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0034] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an endoscope with an application cap attached and a mounting aid fitted to the application cap, according to one configuration example of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a magnified view showing the end of an endoscope with an application cap attached and a mounting aid fitted to the application cap, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an endoscope with an application cap attached, but without a mounting aid attached to the application cap, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a magnified view showing the end of an endoscope with an application cap attached and no mounting aid attached to the application cap, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an isometric view of a mounting aid attached to the application cap at the end of an endoscope, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view of a mounting aid attached to the application cap at the end of an endoscope, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a top view of a mounting aid attached to the application cap at the end of an endoscope, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a front view of a mounting aid attached to the application cap at the end of an endoscope, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of a mounting aid separated from the application cap at the end of an endoscope, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a mounting aid attached to the application cap at the end of an endoscope, without a probe, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a mounting aid, comprising a probe and attached to an application cap at the end of an endoscope, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an isometric view of a mounting aid according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a side view of a mounting aid according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a top view of a mounting aid according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a front view of a mounting aid according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a rear view of a mounting aid according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a side cross-sectional view of a mounting aid according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] The following describes an example of the configuration of this disclosure based on the attached drawings. Figure 1 shows an endoscope 3 with an application cap 2 attached and a mounting aid 1 mounted on the application cap 2, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. More specifically, Figure 1 shows an endoscope 3 having an operating section 18 at a first end of the endoscope 3, and a mounting aid 1 mounted on an application cap 2 attached to a second end of the endoscope 3.

[0036] Figure 2 is an enlarged view showing one end of an endoscope 3 to which an application cap 2 is attached and a mounting aid 1 is attached to the application cap 2, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 is a magnified view of the circled area labeled "A" in Figure 1. In Figure 2, the second end of the endoscope 3 to which the application cap 2 is attached is shown. The probe 4 is guided along one side (upper side) of the endoscope 3, inserted / guided into the application cap 2, and positioned / fixed within the application cap 2 in a positionally defined manner. It is preferable that the mounting aid 1 and the application cap 2 share an axis of symmetry when joined together.

[0038] The probe 4 is attached to the proximal end of the endoscope 3, distally behind the application cap 2, by means of a fixing means, preferably by an adhesive strip 16. On the (downward) side of the application cap 2, opposite to the side where the probe 4 is located, Figure 2 shows a mounted / slid-mounted / fixed mounting aid 1. The mounting aid 1 has an outer edge 7 distally toward the end of the end of the endoscope 3 and a gripping portion 15 proximally toward away from the end of the endoscope 3. A first projection 12, particularly the distal cap projection, is provided on the upper side of the mounting aid 1 so as to point toward the application cap 2. The projection 12 is curved so that the contour of the treatment opening edge 6 of the application cap 2, particularly the distal treatment opening edge 6, contacts the projection 12. The projection 12 is substantially centered between the distal and proximal ends of the mounting aid 1 and is convex toward the proximal end of the mounting aid 1.

[0039] The mounting aid 1 has a first main surface 10a and a second main surface 10b. The first main surface 10a is provided on the distal portion of the mounting aid 1. In other words, the first main surface 10a is the portion provided in the distal direction away from the first projection 12. The second main surface 10b is provided on the proximal portion of the mounting aid 1 and forms a gripping portion 15.

[0040] The first main surface 10a is configured to be higher than the second main surface 10b. Preferably, a descending portion 19 is provided at the distal portion of the mounting aid 1, and the first projection 12 is substantially positioned in the proximal direction on the second main surface 10b, immediately after the descending portion 19.

[0041] Figure 3 shows an endoscope 3 with an application cap 2 attached, but without the mounting aid 1 attached to the application cap 2, according to an example configuration of this disclosure. Figure 3 is similar to Figure 1, but differs in that in Figure 3 the mounting aid 1 is not attached / slid on / attached, and is shown separately. Therefore, further detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0042] Figure 4 is an enlarged view showing one end of an endoscope 3 with an application cap 2 attached and the mounting aid 1 not attached to the application cap 2, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 4 is a magnified view of the circled area labeled "A" in Figure 3. For parts already known from Figure 2, please refer to Figure 2, and explanations in this figure will be omitted. Figure 4 shows the second end of the endoscope 3 with the application cap 2 attached. The mounting aid 1 is shown in its unattached state and will be described in detail below.

[0044] The mounting aid 1 has a first main surface 10a and a second main surface 10b. The first projection 12, already described above, is provided on the second main surface 10b at the distal end of the proximal portion. A second projection 13, in particular a probe positioning projection, is provided on the first main surface 10a and is positioned substantially in the center between the outer edge 7 and the first projection 12, preferably closer to the first projection 12. The second projection 13 has a recess 14 provided and configured to hold / receive the end of the probe 4. The recess 14 forms the upper end of the second projection 13. The edge of the recess 14 is preferably provided parallel to the first main surface 10a and more preferably slightly inclined in the proximal direction.

[0045] The mounting aid 1 has a stepped portion formed by a groove 5. The groove 5 is substantially U-shaped, with the U-shaped bottom 9 of the groove 5 extending over the first projection 12. The U-shaped bottom 9 of the groove 5 is positioned higher than the first main surface 10a and the second main surface 10b. The U-shaped legs 11 of the groove 5 extend distally toward the outer edge 7 and terminate in an open region 8, which extends over at least half of the outer edge 7 and is located in the center of the outer edge 7.

[0046] The open area 8 is inclined downward in the proximal direction. The open area 8 is a recess at the distal end of the mounting aid 1. The open area 8 has a bottom that is inclined / chamfered downward toward the lower surface of the mounting aid 1 in the proximal direction, as well as two lateral side walls and one proximal side wall. The proximal side wall of the open area 8 functions as a stopper for the lower distal application cap edge / treatment opening edge 6. The (lower) lateral application cap edge / treatment opening edge 6 is flush with the lateral side wall of the open area 8. In other words, the proximal end of the mounting aid 1 is provided with an open area 8, which is configured for the shape-fitting accommodation of the lower distal end of the application cap 2. Preferably, the open area 8 forms a distal stopper for the application cap. The open area 8 is defined on three sides by a ridge provided by the first main surface 10a.

[0047] The U-shaped leg portion 11 is recessed relative to the first main surface 10a and / or the second main surface 10b. The second projection 13 is located in the center of the U-shaped leg portion 11 of the groove 5. The gripping portion 15 forms the proximal part of the mounting aid 1, and preferably, it is configured in a circular peninsula shape after a straight portion 20 in the proximal direction away from the first projection 12. The straight portion 20 has the same width as the distal part of the mounting aid 1 and the same height as the second main surface 10b.

[0048] In other words, the mounting aid 1 comprises a substantially plate-shaped base or a base having a substantially flat surface. The gripping portion 15 of the mounting aid 1 is located in the proximal region of the base. The cap contact structure and the probe contact structure are located in the distal region of the base.

[0049] The cap contact structure may be formed by a projection 12 extending away from the surface of the substrate, preferably projecting substantially perpendicularly therefrom. The projection 12 has a flat or substantially flat side surface, which forms the distal cap contact surface (i.e., a stopper at the distal tip of the application cap 2). Thus, the distal cap contact surface extends to a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis / direction of the application cap 2, or to a plane stretched by the treatment opening edge 6 of the substantially distal (treatment) opening of the application cap 2.

[0050] The cap contact structure may be formed by the surface of the substrate. The surface forms a substantially flat support surface in part, which forms the lateral cap contact surface (i.e., a stopper for the circumferential portion of the application cap 2). Thus, the lateral cap contact surface extends to a plane substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis / direction of the application cap 2, or to a plane stretched by the treatment opening edge 6 of the treatment opening substantially laterally of the application cap 2.

[0051] Furthermore, or alternatively, the cap contact structure may be formed by (side / lateral) edge projections of the mounting aid 1 that extend away from the surface of the substrate and preferably project substantially perpendicularly therefrom. The edge projections form or define grooves 5. Each edge projection has a flat or substantially flat side / inner surface. The inner surfaces are aligned opposite each other and form a stopper for the (lateral / lateral) closing cap portion of the application cap 2.

[0052] The mounting aid 1 may preferably be configured to form a direct contact / support surface for the application cap 2 on a projection 12 or a substantially flat side surface, in particular for the treatment opening edge 6 of the substantially distal opening of the application cap 2. The mounting aid 1 may preferably be configured to form a direct contact / support surface for the application cap 2 on a base or a portion of a substantially flat surface, in particular for the treatment opening edge 6 of the substantially lateral opening of the application cap 2 (i.e., the opening facing the mounting aid 1). The mounting aid 1 may preferably be configured to form a direct contact surface for the application cap 2 on an edge projection or a substantially flat side surface / inner surface, in particular for the occluding circumferential portion of the application cap 2.

[0053] The probe contact structure may be formed by projections 13 that extend away from the surface of the substrate and preferably project substantially perpendicularly therefrom. The projections 13 have a flat or substantially flat end face, or optionally have a recess 14 formed inside thereof, the end face or recess 14 forming the distal probe contact surface (i.e., a stopper for the distal end of the probe 4).

[0054] The distal cap contact surface may be positioned distal to the distal probe contact surface. That is, the projection 12 may be positioned closer to the gripping portion 15 than the projection 13.

[0055] The lateral cap contact surface may be positioned laterally from the distal probe contact surface. This means that the projection 13 protrudes from the base of the mounting aid 1, and its end face is positioned at a distance from the surface of the base.

[0056] Figure 5 is an isometric view of a mounting aid 1 attached to the application cap 2 at the end of the endoscope 3, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 5 shows an insertable probe 4, which is provided at the end of the endoscope 3 and includes fixing means, preferably an adhesive strip 16. Furthermore, since Figure 5 is similar to Figure 2 described above, no further detailed explanation is given.

[0057] Figure 6 is a side view of a mounting aid 1 attached to the application cap 2 at the proximal end of the endoscope 3, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 6 shows the height difference between the first main surface 10a and the second main surface 10b. Furthermore, Figure 6 shows how the contour of the groove 5 of the mounting aid 1 conforms to the contour of the entire treatment opening edge 6 of the application cap 2.

[0058] Figure 7 is a top view of the mounting aid 1 attached to the application cap 2 at the proximal end of the endoscope 3, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure, and Figure 8 is a front view of the mounting aid 1 attached to the application cap 2 at the proximal end of the endoscope 3. Both Figures 7 and 8 show different viewpoints of the mounting aid 1, and the individual components have already been described in detail. Therefore, for clarity, no further explanation is given.

[0059] Figure 9 is a side view of the mounting aid 1 positioned separately (unattached) from the application cap 2 at the proximal end of the endoscope 3, according to an example configuration of this disclosure. For details regarding the end of the endoscope 3 and the application cap 2 in Figure 9, please refer to the above description.

[0060] Figure 9 also shows the mounting aid 1 in a side view. Here, Figure 9 shows that the first projection 12 is located on the second main surface 10b substantially in the center of the mounting aid 1 in the distal-proximal direction. The second projection 13 is preferably located on the first main surface 10a, closer to the first projection 12 than the outer edge 7, on the distal portion of the mounting aid 1.

[0061] Figure 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a mounting aid 1 attached to the application cap 2 at the end of the end of the endoscope 3, without a probe, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 10 shows the contact between the distal treatment opening edge 6 and the U-shaped bottom 9 of the groove 5. Furthermore, Figure 10 shows the contact between the proximal chamfered open region 8 and the opposite lower surface of the application cap 2 attached to the endoscope 3, where the probe 4 is attached. The distal end of the lower surface of the application cap 2 is in contact with the proximal side wall of the open region 8. Here, the side wall forming the proximal end of the open region 8 and connecting to the first main surface 10a is configured to be substantially vertical, preferably inclined / chamfered in the proximal direction, and is provided to function as a stopper.

[0062] Figure 10 further shows a cannula 17 / opening (probe passage opening) leading into / directing to the inside of the application cap 2, above the application cap 2 where the probe 4 (not shown) is provided.

[0063] Figure 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a mounting aid 1, which is mounted on an application cap 2 with a probe 4 at the end of an endoscope 3, according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 11 is similar to Figure 10 except for the probe 4, which is inserted along the upper side of the endoscope 3 and the application cap 2 and introduced into the interior of the application cap 2 through a cannula 17. The probe 4 is guided / inserted into the application cap 2 until the end of the probe 4 contacts the mounting aid 1, preferably the recess 14 of the second projection 13, and stops automatically.

[0064] Figure 12 is an isometric view of a mounting aid 1 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 12 shows that the U-shaped legs 11 preferably do not extend parallel to each other. The U-shaped legs 11 run parallel distally to the position of the second projection, then run toward each other, and merge with the lateral side wall of the open region 8 to extend to the outer edge 7. Other features have already been described with reference to Figure 4, and for clarity no further explanation is given.

[0065] Figure 13 is a side view of a mounting aid 1 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure, and is similar to the mounting aid 1 shown separately in Figure 9. Therefore, please refer to Figure 9 and no further explanation will be given.

[0066] Figure 14 is a top view of mounting aid 1 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure, and is similar to mounting aid 1 shown separately in Figure 4. Therefore, please refer to Figure 4 and no further explanation will be given.

[0067] Figure 15 is a front view of a mounting aid 1 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. In the front view of Figure 15, a first projection 12 is shown that is semicircular in shape on the second main surface 10b.

[0068] Figure 16 is a rear view of a mounting aid 1 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 16 shows that the first projection 12 is configured to be higher than the second projection 13. For the remaining features, please refer to the description above.

[0069] Figure 17 is a side cross-sectional view of a mounting aid 1 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 17 shows the mounting aid 1 according to Figure 10 in an unattached state. Therefore, no further explanation is given. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0070] 1…Mounting aids 2…Application Cap 3… Endoscopy 4…Probe 5…Groove 6… Treatment opening edge 7…Outer edge 8...Open area 9...U-shaped bottom 10…Main surface 11...U-shaped leg 12...First projection, cap projection 13…Second projection, probe positioning projection 14…recess 15...Gripping part 16…Adhesive strips 17... Cannula 18...Operation unit 19...Descent section 20...Straight section

Claims

1. A mounting aid (1) for attaching to an application cap (2) at the distal end of an endoscope (3), wherein the mounting aid (1) comprises a cap contact structure that contacts or holds the application cap (2) in a positioned manner, and a probe contact structure that contacts the distal tip of a probe (4) in a positioned manner, and the probe contact structure is positioned relative to the cap contact structure so that the probe (4) is guided to a predetermined position within the treatment opening edge (6) of the application cap (2).

2. The mounting aid (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cap contact structure forms a distal cap contact surface and / or a lateral cap contact surface for the application cap (2), and the probe contact structure forms a distal probe contact surface for the probe (4).

3. The mounting aid (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the distal cap contact surface is positioned distally from the distal probe contact surface, and / or the lateral cap contact surface is positioned laterally from the distal probe contact surface.

4. A mounting aid (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mounting aid (1) comprises at least one stepped portion or groove (5) that forms the cap contact structure, and at least the treatment opening edge (6) of the application cap (2) is inserted into the at least one stepped portion or groove (5).

5. The mounting aid (1) according to claim 4, wherein the stepped portion or groove (5) is configured in a U-shape and is open in a proximal direction toward the proximal outer edge (7) of the mounting aid (1).

6. The mounting aid (1) according to claim 5, wherein the mounting aid (1) forms a main surface (10), and on the main surface (10), the U-shaped leg portion (11) of the stepped portion or groove (5) forms a recess, and the U-shaped bottom portion (9) of the stepped portion or groove (5) is positioned between the distal ends of the U-shaped leg portion (11) of the stepped portion or groove (5) and is configured to be higher than the main surface (10) of the mounting aid (1).

7. A mounting aid (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the probe contact structure defines the terminal position of the probe (4) by providing a recess (14) adapted to receive the probe (4), particularly the distal end of the probe (4).

8. A mounting aid (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the mounting aid (1) is characterized in that it forms a probe positioning projection (13) configured to protrude into the application cap (2) through the treatment opening edge (6).

9. The mounting aid (1) according to claims 7 and 8, characterized in that the recess (14) is located within the probe positioning projection (13).

10. A mounting aid (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the mounting aid (1) has a distal cap projection (12) configured distal to the probe contact structure, and the distal cap projection (12) is recessed so that the U-shaped bottom portion (9) of the step portion or groove (5) extends substantially gate-shaped or arc-shaped on the main surface (10).

11. A mounting aid (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the distal end of the mounting aid (1) is provided to pull the mounting aid (1) out of the application cap (2) after the probe (4) has been positioned.

12. A method of using a mounting aid (1), preferably the mounting aid (1) described in any one of claims 1 to 11, The steps include providing or positioning the mounting aid (1) on the application cap (2), preferably at the treatment opening of the application cap (2), such that the cap contact structure of the mounting aid (1) contacts the application cap (2) at a defined position, The steps include inserting the probe (4) into the application cap (2) until it contacts the probe contact structure of the mounting aid (1), particularly the recess (14), preferably the second projection (13) of the probe contact structure, The steps include fixing the probe (4) to the application cap (2) with an adhesive strip (16), Preferably a method comprising the step of removing / peeling the mounting aid (1) from the application cap (2) via the gripping portion (15) of the mounting aid (1).

13. An application system for positioning a probe (4) on an application cap (2), An application cap (2) having a cap-shaped outer wall, wherein the outer wall defines a cavity having a treatment opening and forms a probe passage opening that opens into the cavity at a point opposite to the treatment opening, or an endoscope having a tip that forms the application cap (2), An application system comprising a mounting aid (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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