Endoscopic tool stabilization and related methods of use

Abstract

To stabilize a medical tool in a scope or a similar device.SOLUTION: A device includes: a shaft; and a raising base for engaging with a tool extending through a lumen of the shaft and capable of extending from an opening. The raising base includes: a first actuator; a rotatable plate; a second actuator extending through at least a part of the shaft; a slide member including a third lumen configured to conform to a first lumen; and a frame to which the rotatable plate is rotatably connected.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various aspects of the present invention relate generally to endoscopic devices, and more particularly to a device tip for stabilizing an endoscopic tool and related methods of use. [Background technology]

[0002] During both diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures, accessory devices may be passed through the working channel of an endoscope. The outer diameter of the accessory device must match the inner diameter of the working channel. Endoscopes used exclusively for diagnostic procedures typically have smaller working channels than those used for combination (diagnostic and therapeutic) procedures or those used exclusively for therapeutic procedures. For example, diagnostic gastroscopes and therapeutic gastroscopes typically have working channel inner diameters of 2.8 mm and 3.7 mm, respectively. Accessory devices designed for use with diagnostic scopes are generally also compatible with therapeutic scopes. However, accessory devices designed for use with diagnostic scopes may be smaller in size when used with therapeutic scopes, resulting in a loose fit within the working channel.

[0003] This loose fit can lead to instability of the accessory device as the scope articulates throughout the procedure. Accessory device instability during a procedure can cause fluctuations in the device's orientation within the working channel, as seen under direct visualization. While device instability may not be a problem during some procedures, it can become an issue during more delicate procedures (such as intraluminal surgery). During intraluminal surgical procedures, a cutting knife may be used to resect tissue. Some existing cutting knives lack articulation capabilities, and the cutting motion performed by the physician is controlled by the articulation of the scope. When the cutting knife is undersized relative to the inner diameter of the endoscope's working channel, there is a loose fit between the knife and the working channel; therefore, the knife may undergo involuntary movement when the physician articulates the scope. This introduces a degree of unpredictability to the physician performing the procedure and potential risk to the patient. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention relate, inter alia, to mechanisms for stabilizing a medical tool within a scope or similar device. Each of the embodiments disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in connection with any of the other disclosed embodiments.

[0005] According to one aspect, the device may include a shaft having a distal end and a lumen, the lumen terminating in a distally facing opening. A tool may be inserted through the shaft and extend through the lumen and out the opening. The device may further include an elevator for engaging the tool. The elevator may include an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft and a body that may be coupled to the actuator. A portion of the body may be configured to extend into the lumen to selectively position the tool.

[0006] In other aspects of the invention, the device may include one or more of the following features. The body may include a first extension, a second extension, and a proximal portion connecting the first extension and the second extension. The actuator may be coupled to a distal portion of the first extension, and a portion of the second extension may be configured to move within the lumen when the actuator is moved proximally. A portion of the second extension may be configured to exit the lumen when the actuator is moved distally. The longitudinal axis of the first extension may intersect the longitudinal axis of the second extension. The second extension may have a U-shaped body surface for engaging a tool. The body may rotate about an axis positioned within the proximal portion when the actuator is moved proximally or distally. The body may include a first extension, a second extension, a proximal portion connecting the first extension and the second extension, and a swing member. The actuator can be coupled to the rocking member and can contact a curved surface of the rocking member. A portion of the first extension can be configured to move within the lumen when the actuator is moved proximally and a portion of the second extension can be configured to move within the lumen when the actuator is moved distally.

[0007] In other aspects of the invention, the device may include one or more of the features described below. The radially inner surface of the first extension and the radially inner surface of the second extension may be configured to align with the radially inner surface of the lumen. The actuator may be coupled to the swing member at a position offset from the axis of rotation of the body. The longitudinal axes of the first extension and the second extension may be parallel. The body may be positioned within a channel extending distally from an opening in the radially inner surface of the lumen. The channel may have a longitudinal axis that intersects the longitudinal axis of the lumen. The surface of the body may be configured to slidably interface with the channel when the actuator is moved proximally or distally. The body may be configured to slide proximally within the channel, move through the opening in the radially inner surface of the lumen, and enter the channel when the actuator is moved proximally. The elevator may further include a tab member pivotably connected to the shaft and a block including a first surface in contact with a second surface of the body. The first surface may intersect a longitudinal axis of the lumen, and the second surface may be configured to slidably engage with the first surface when the actuator is moved proximally or distally. The body may be configured to move toward the lumen and forcibly push the tab member into the lumen. The tab member may be biased away from the lumen. The actuator may extend through a channel in the block. The lumen may be a first lumen, and the body may be a snare loop. The elevator may further include a support including a second lumen and a channel extending around a radially inner surface of the second lumen. The second lumen may be aligned with the first lumen. The channel may receive a snare loop, and the snare loop may be configured to enter the second lumen when the actuator is moved proximally.

[0008] In another aspect, the device may include a shaft having a distal end and a first lumen, the first lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, such that a tool inserted through the shaft can extend through the lumen and out of the opening. The device may further include an elevator for engaging the tool. The elevator may include a first actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft and a rotatable plate coupled to the first actuator. The rotatable plate may be angled so that a distal portion of the rotatable plate is more distal than a proximal portion of the rotatable plate. The rotatable plate may include a second lumen and a recess configured to align with the first lumen. The elevator may further include a second actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft and a sliding member coupled to the second actuator. The sliding member may be positioned within the recess and may include a third lumen configured to align with the first lumen. The elevator may also include a frame fixedly positioned within the shaft. The rotatable plate may be rotatably coupled to the frame.

[0009] In other aspects, the device may include one or more of the following features: A portion of the sliding member may be configured to extend into the first lumen and apply a force to the tool when the second actuator is actuated. The sliding member may be configured to actuate the tool such that the tool contacts a radially inner surface of the first lumen. The rotatable plate may be configured to rotate relative to the frame when the first actuator is actuated, and rotation of the rotatable plate may rotate the sliding member. The frame may include a wall, and the wall may be configured to limit movement of the sliding member within the recess of the rotatable plate.

[0010] In another aspect, the device may include a shaft having a distal end and a lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, such that a tool inserted through the shaft can extend through the lumen and out the opening, and an elevator for engaging the tool. The elevator may include an actuator extending through the shaft and a body coupled to the actuator and including an opening. The body may be positioned distal to the opening in the shaft and configured to apply a force to the tool when the actuator is rotated about its longitudinal axis. The body may be configured to move the tool so that the tool contacts the radially inner surface of the lumen.

[0011] In other aspects, the device may include one or more of the following features: The opening in the body may be configured to align with the lumen, and the biasing member may be coupled to the body and may bias the body toward a position where the opening in the body aligns with the lumen.

[0012] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not limiting of the invention as claimed. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, and a process, method, article, or device that includes a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or device. The term "exemplary" is used to mean "example" rather than "ideal." The term "distal" refers to the portion of a device that is furthest from a user when introducing the device into a patient's body. In contrast, the term "proximal" refers to the portion of a device that is closest to a user when positioned within a patient's body. The proximal and distal directions are labeled by arrows marked "P" and "D," respectively, throughout the drawings. Although reference is made herein to an endoscope, reference to an endoscope or endoscopic procedures should not be considered as limiting the possible applications of the disclosed embodiments. For example, embodiments of the disclosure may be used with duodenoscopes, bronchoscopes, ureteroscopes, colonoscopes, catheters, diagnostic or therapeutic tools or devices, or other types of medical devices. Additionally, relative terms such as "about," "approximately / substantially," "nearly," etc. are used to indicate a possible variation of ±10% in a stated numerical value or range of values.

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an endoscopic system and a close-up view of a distal end of an endoscope of the endoscopic system, according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 1 is a perspective view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a front view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2C] 1 is a perspective view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2 is a front view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] 1 is a perspective view of components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a front view of components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] FIG. 3C is a perspective view of a system for rotating the components of FIGS. 3A-3B. [Figure 4B] FIG. 3C is a perspective view of a system for rotating the components of FIGS. 3A-3B. [Figure 5A] 1 is a perspective view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] FIG. 2 is a front view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] 1 is a perspective view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 2 is a front view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] 1 is a side view of the internal components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] 1 is a side view of the internal components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7C] 1 is a side view of the internal components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 7B is a front view of some of the components of the device chip of FIGS. 7A-7C, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a perspective view of several components of the device chip shown in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11A] FIG. 2 is a front view of several components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11B] FIG. 2 is a front view of several components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11C] FIG. 2 is a front view of several components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11D]FIG. 2 is a front view of several components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1 is a perspective view of components of a device chip, according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 13A] 13 is a perspective view of a working channel of a device tip including the components of FIG. 12, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13B] 13 is a perspective view of a working channel of a device tip including the components of FIG. 12, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13C] 13 is a perspective view of a working channel of a device tip including the components of FIG. 12, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 13 is a perspective view of a working channel of a device tip including the components of FIG. 12, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15A] FIG. 2 is a front view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15B] FIG. 2 is a front view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16A] 1 is a perspective view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16B] 1 is a perspective view of a device chip according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numerals will be used throughout the several drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention seek to enhance the stability of accessory devices (e.g., working tools) within the lumen or working channel of a scope, e.g., endoscope, etc., with the tool being reduced in size relative to the lumen. Some embodiments include steerable components, providing the user with additional degrees of freedom when manipulating tools at the distal end of the scope. Embodiments of the present invention seek to enhance a physician's ability to manipulate accessory devices within the working channel of an endoscope.

[0017] An exemplary endoscopy system 100 is shown in FIG. 1 . The endoscopy system 100 may include an endoscope 104. The endoscope 104 may include a handle assembly 120 and a flexible tubular shaft 102. The flexibility of the shaft 102 may be sufficient to allow the shaft 102 to bend to facilitate navigation of the shaft 102 through tortuous anatomical passages of a subject. The shaft 102 may terminate in a distal tip 101. The shaft 102 may include an articulation section 122 for deflecting the distal tip 101 upward, downward, leftward, and / or rightward. In one example, the articulation section 122 may provide full inversion (e.g., rotation of the distal tip 101 through an arc of 180 degrees) or may provide only partial inversion (e.g., rotation of the distal tip 101 through an arc of less than 180 degrees). Endoscope 104 may also include one or more lumens extending therethrough and one or more openings in communication with the one or more lumens. For example, one or more lumens may extend through handle assembly 120 and shaft 102, and one or more openings may be in handle assembly 120 and distal tip 101. Endoscope 104 may be any suitable member for insertion into a patient's body, such as an endoscope, gastroscope, ureteroscope, nephroscope, colonoscope, hysteroscope, ureteroscope, bronchoscope, cystoscope, duodenoscope, sheath, or catheter.

[0018] One or more auxiliary devices may be operably coupled to the endoscope 104. Exemplary auxiliary devices may include a controller 106, an imaging system 108, a power supply 112, a display 114, a fluid supply 116, and / or a vacuum source 118, each of which is briefly described below. The controller 106 may include any electronic device capable of receiving, storing, processing, generating, and / or transmitting data, for example, according to instructions provided by one or more programs. The controller 106 may be operably coupled to or be a part of one or more of the endoscope 104 and other auxiliary devices and control one or more aspects of their operation. The power supply 112 may include any suitable power source and associated connectors (e.g., conductive wires) for providing power to the auxiliary devices and electronic components within the endoscope 104. The fluid supply assembly 116 may include a reservoir, a medical irrigation bag, a pump, and any suitable connectors (e.g., tubing for fluidly coupling the fluid supply 116 to the endoscope 104). The pump may supply a flow of pressurized fluid to one or more of the lumens in the endoscope 104, and the flow of pressurized fluid may be released from and / or used to inflate expandable components present at the distal tip 101. The vacuum source 118 may provide suction or vacuum pressure to one or more lumens of the endoscope, thereby creating a suction force to draw material toward and / or into the endoscope 104 and / or collapse expandable components.

[0019] The imaging system 108 may include imaging electronics, for example, to process signals received from an image sensor within the endoscope 104, send signals to control the image sensor, adjust the lighting levels of the area viewed by the image sensor, and / or facilitate the display of image sensor data on the display 114.

[0020] The distal tip 101 may include one or more image sensors 129 and one or more illuminators 131, shown in the expanded view of the distal tip 101 in Figure 1. The one or more image sensors 129 may include charge-coupled device image sensors, imaging complementary metal oxide semiconductors, or the like, coupled to cables or wires that extend through the shaft 102 of the endoscope 104. The one or more illuminators 131 may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), or the like.

[0021] A tool 127 may be inserted into the lumen or working channel 125 of the endoscope 104 and may exit the distal end of the lumen 125. The tool 127 may include, for example, a guidewire, a cutting or grasping forceps, a biopsy device, a snare loop, a syringe needle, a cutting blade, scissors, a retractable basket, a retrieval device, an ablation and / or electrophysiology catheter, a stent placement device, a surgical stapling device, a balloon catheter, a laser emitting device, and / or any other suitable therapeutic or diagnostic tool. As shown in the close-up view of the distal tip 101, the tool 127 may have a smaller circumference about its longitudinal axis compared to the circumference of the longitudinal axis of the lumen 125 and may include a smaller cross-sectional diameter compared to the diameter of the lumen 125. Aspects of the present invention provide embodiments of medical device tips, such as the distal tip 101. The medical device tip may facilitate fixedly coupling a tool, such as tool 127, to distal tip 101 so that when a user moves distal tip 101, tool 127 also moves in the same direction.

[0022] 2A-2D show perspective and front views of medical device tip 201, including image sensor 229, illuminators 231, 233, lumen or working channel 225, and elevator 242. Tool 227 is shown disposed within working channel 225. Elevator 242 may provide a means for securing tool 227 to distal tip 201 by sandwiching tool 227 between elevator 242 and the radially inner wall of working channel 225. Elevator 242 may also move tool 227 throughout its path of motion, for example, moving tool 227 in an arcing motion throughout its path of motion. The path of tool 227 when engaged with elevator 242 may depend on the starting position of tool 227 without elevator 242 engaging tool 227. In some examples, the starting position of the tool 227 may be affected by the stiffness of the tool 227, the articulation of the distal tip 201, and / or the path of movement of the medical device through the patient's anatomy. In some examples, the elevator 242 may be positioned at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the medical device tip 201 and may be configured to adjust the position of the tool positioned within the working channel exiting the sidewall of the medical device tip 201, with the distal opening of the working channel positioned proximal to the distal front surface of the medical device tip 201 (note this feature is not shown in the drawings).

[0023] Elevator 242 may include a U-shaped surface, as described below in connection with second extension 246 that receives tool 227. Elevator 242 may attach to a portion of distal tip 201 at a proximal portion 248 of elevator 242. Proximal portion 248 of elevator 242 may be rotatable about an axis that generally intersects the longitudinal axis of working channel 225. In some examples, proximal portion 248 may be rotatably coupled to a portion of distal tip 201 forming a hinge, allowing elevator 242 to rotate about an axis extending through proximal portion 248.

[0024] Elevator 242 may include a first extension 244 and a second extension 246, both of which may extend from a proximal portion 248. In some examples, first extension 244 may be offset from (to the side of) second extension 246 and may be angled relative to second extension 246. In some examples, first extension 244 may be offset from the longitudinal axis of working channel 225 such that first extension 244 is exterior to working channel 225. In some examples, second extension 246 is positioned adjacent to or within working channel 225. Outer surface 252 of second extension 246 may be configured to generally align with, or otherwise be flush with, the radially inner surface of working channel 225. The radially inner surface of the working channel 225 can include a recessed portion in which the elevator second extension 246 is positioned. In some examples, the distal portion of the first extension 244 can include a fastening chamber 250. The fastening chamber 250 can be configured to house the cable, i.e., actuator 240. In some examples, the distal end of the cable 240 can be rotatably coupled to the distal portion of the first extension 244, such that pulling the cable 240 in a proximal direction can pull the first extension 244 proximally to swing about an axis passing through the proximal portion 248 and rotate a portion of the cable 240 about an axis extending through the fastening chamber 250. The cable 240 can be rigid and / or incompressible, such that the cable can be steered distally to move the first extension 244 distally and rotate the elevator about an axis passing through the proximal portion 248. In some examples, cable 240 may be coupled to a lever (not shown) positioned on handle 120 or another proximal portion of endoscope 104. In some examples, elevator 242 may be positioned less than 20 mm from the distal front surface.

[0025] In operation, elevator 242 can be configured to transition between a first configuration, shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, and a second configuration, shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D. A user can pull a lever on a proximal portion of endoscope 104, thereby pulling cable 240 proximally. When cable 240 is pulled proximally, elevator 242 can rotate about an axis extending through proximal portion 248 and transition from the first configuration, shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, to the second configuration, shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D. In some examples, the lever can be in an open position when elevator 242 is positioned such that working channel 225 is open and tool 227 can be moved within working channel 225.

[0026] When a user moves the lever from the open position to the closed position, cable 240 is moved proximally and elevator 242 (specifically, second extension 246) may block a portion of working channel 225 (shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D ). When elevator 242 blocks a portion of working channel 225, second extension 246 may extend into working channel 225 and contact tool 227, forcing tool 227 against the radially inner surface of working channel 225. In some examples, tool 227 may remain parallel to the longitudinal axis of medical device tip 201 and / or working channel 225 when pressed against the radially inner surface of working channel 225. In other examples, tool 227 may be tilted at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of medical device tip 201 and / or working channel 225 when pressed against the radially inner surface of working channel 225. The user can move the lever to a closed position and / or pull the cable 240 proximally to rotate the elevator 242 and compress the second extension 246 against the tool 227 to hold the tool 227 in place. The user can lock the lever in the closed position, allowing the user to move the distal tip 201 and the tool 227 simultaneously and in coordination without having to hold the tool 227 separately. By compressing the second extension 246 against the tool 227, the user can stabilize the tool 227 and prevent it from moving within the working channel 225. The position of the elevator 242 can be optimized to position the tool 227 at any portion of the radially inner surface of the working channel 225 when the elevator 242 engages the tool 227, for example, to position the tool 227 at a specific location relative to the image sensor 229 and / or illuminators 231, 233. In some examples, lever control cable 240 can be configured to lock in a closed position, allowing a user to lock elevator 242 in a position that holds tool 227 in place. When lever control cable 240 is configured to lock in a closed position, the user may not need to hold the proximal portion of tool 227 in the biopsy port of handle 120, thus reducing user fatigue and allowing the user to move their hand freely.

[0027] 3A and 3B illustrate an alternative embodiment of an elevator 302 that may be incorporated into a device tip. The elevator 302 may have any of the features previously described in connection with the elevator 242. In FIG. 3A, the elevator 302 is shown positioned relative to a working channel 325 that may be within an endoscope 104 or similar medical device. The elevator 302 includes a first extension 304, a second extension 306, and a proximal portion 307 connecting the first extension 304 and the second extension 306. The first extension 304 faces the second extension 306, and a lumen 315 may extend longitudinally the length of the elevator 302. When the elevator 302 is positioned within the distal tip of the device, e.g., within the distal tip 101, the lumen 315 may be longitudinally aligned with the working channel of the device. The radially inner surfaces 310, 312 of the first extension 304 and the second extension 306, respectively, may be curved and configured to conform to the working channel 325. The proximal portion 307 may include a connecting portion 308. The connecting portion 308 may extend radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the elevator 302 and may protrude from the radially outer surface of the elevator 302. The connecting portion 308 may be configured to connect to a mechanism that allows a user to rotate the elevator 302 about the connecting portion 308, such as a mechanism similar to the first extension 244 shown in FIGS. 2A-2D . The connecting portion 308 may be positioned outside or partially outside the working channel 325 and within the distal tip of the medical device. A tab 316 may be positioned on the radially outer surface of the elevator 302 at a portion of the elevator 302 opposite the connecting portion 308. Tab 316 may be rotatably coupled to a portion of the distal tip of the medical device and may be positioned partially outside of working channel 325. In some examples, first extension 304 and second extension 306 may be longitudinal curved arms extending from annular portion 307. Annular portion 307 may have a proximal opening for receiving an endoscopic tool. First extension 304 and second extension 306 may define two longitudinal slots 309 therebetween. Distal opening 311 may be at the distal-most end of elevator 302 and may be configured for tool 325 to extend therethrough.

[0028] In some examples, connector 308 can be coupled to rotator 452. Rotator 452 can include a rotatable hub 454 coupled to connector 308. A cable, i.e., actuator 450, positioned outside of working channel 325 can be longitudinally deflected from hub 454 and fixedly coupled to rotatable hub 454. Cable 450 can extend through a lumen within rotator 452 and can be coupled to an extension 461 extending from rotatable hub 454. When a user moves cable 450 distally, extension 461 can rotate as a result of the force applied to extension 461 by cable 450, and rotatable hub 454 can rotate due to the movement of extension 461, thus rotating elevator 302 via connector 308 and deflecting elevator 302. In some examples, deflecting elevator 302 may move first extension 304 such that it obstructs working channel 325 and rotates toward first side 320 of working channel 325. Once first extension 304 obstructs working channel 325, first extension 304 may contact tool 427 and push tool 427 toward first side 320 of working channel 325, holding tool 427 between first side 320 and first extension 304, thus preventing movement of tool 427 within working channel 325. When a user moves cable 450 proximally, cable 450 may pull extension 461 and rotatable hub 454 may rotate due to the movement of extension 461. In this manner, elevator 302 is rotated via connection 308 and biased such that second extension 306 obstructs working channel 325 and rotates toward second side 321 of working channel 325. In some examples, first extension 304 or second extension 306 occludes a portion of working channel 325, allowing tool 427 to move across working channel 325.

[0029] Cable 450 may be moved by a user in the same manner as described above with respect to cable 240. In some examples, a user may pull or push cable 450, causing extension 461 to rotate about hub 454, and the rotation of extension 461 deflects either first extension 304 or second extension 306 over a portion of working channel 325. Because elevator 302 allows a user to position first extension 304 within working channel 325 to hold tool 427 toward first side 320 of working channel 325 and position second extension 306 within working channel 325 to hold tool 427 toward second side 321 of working channel 325, elevator 302 provides a user with the ability to hold tool 427 in multiple different locations within working channel 325. In some examples, elevator 302 can be positioned partially within working channel 325 when the longitudinal axis of elevator 302 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of working channel 325. In other examples, elevator 302 can be positioned completely outside of working channel 325 when the longitudinal axis of working channel 325 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of elevator 302. In some examples, radially inner surfaces 310, 312 of elevator 302 can be aligned with radially inner surfaces of working channel 325.

[0030] 5A and 5B and 6A and 6B show perspective and front views of another elevator 510 within the device tip 501. In some examples, the elevator 510 can include a U-shaped convex outer surface 511 with opposing flanges 513 extending radially outward from the bottom of the U-shaped outer surface 511. In other examples, the outer surface of the elevator 510 can be any suitable shape configured to extend through an opening 518 to contact a tool 527. The flanges 513 define an upper surface of a bottom 515 of the elevator 510. The bottom 515 can be positioned within and slide within a channel 514 extending from an opening 518 in a radially inner surface of the working channel 525. The elevator 510 and / or the channel 514 can have a longitudinal axis that generally intersects the working channel 525. In some examples, channel 514 may extend distally from opening 518 in working channel 525 at an angle. In other examples (not shown), channel 514 may extend proximally from opening 518 at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of working channel 525. Elevator 510 may be configured to move within channel 514. In some examples, channel 514 may include an opening 516 extending longitudinally into channel 514. Opening 516 may be configured to receive cable or actuator 550 and allow cable or actuator 550 to move within opening 516. In some examples, elevator 510 may be within an endoscope cap that is attachable to the distal tip of an endoscope.

[0031] The cable, i.e., actuator 550, may be fixedly coupled to the elevator 510, or the cable may be rotatably coupled to the elevator 510 such that the cable 550 can rotate about the point at which the cable 550 is coupled to the elevator 510. In some examples, the cable 550 may extend from the elevator 510 to a proximal portion of the device such that a user can move the cable 550 when the distal tip 501 is positioned within a patient. The cable 550 may be rigid and / or incompressible such that the cable 550 can be moved distally or proximally without rotation, moving the elevator 510 distally or proximally, thereby moving the elevator within the channel 514. In some examples, the cable 550 may be coupled to a lever (not shown) positioned on the handle 120 or another proximal portion of the endoscope 104, in the same manner as described above with respect to the elevator 242.

[0032] 5A and 5B show elevator 510 fully received within channel 514 so that it does not extend into working channel 525. When a user straightens cable 550 proximally, for example by actuating a lever on handle 120 to pull cable 550 proximally, elevator 510 straightens within channel 514 and may extend into working channel 525, blocking working channel 525. In other examples (not shown), straightening cable 550 distally moves elevator 510 into working channel 525. In some examples, straightening cable 550 proximally transitions elevator 510 from a first configuration shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B to a second configuration shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. When tool 527 is positioned within working channel 525, moving elevator 510 into working channel 525 can move tool 527. By pulling cable 550 proximally, the user can move elevator 510 within working channel 525 and sandwich tool 527 between elevator 510 and the radially inner surface of working channel 525 (shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B ). When the user moves elevator 510 so that elevator 510 pushes against tool 527 and holds tool 527 between elevator 510 and the radially inner surface of working channel 525, tool 527 can be held in place and the user can move distal tip 501 and tool 527 in unison without tool 527 moving within working channel 525. By holding tool 527 in a specific position within working channel 525, elevator 510 can help stabilize tool 527 within working channel 525. In other examples, the angle, shape, and / or size of elevator 510 can be optimized to achieve preferred elevator performance and accessory compatibility. In some examples, elevator 510 can be moved from a position within working channel 525 to a position within channel 514 outside of working channel 525 by moving tool 527 through working channel 525 .

[0033] 7A-7C illustrate another embodiment of an elevator system 702 including a wedge 706 positioned within a distal tip 701 of a medical device. FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate a side view of the distal tip 701 within a working channel 725, a tool 727 positioned within the working channel 725, the wedge 706, and an opening 709 in the radially inner surface of the working channel 725. The opening 709 connects the working channel 725 to a cavity (not shown) in which the wedge 706 is positioned. The wedge 706 may include a pair of faces that generally intersect the longitudinal axis of the working channel 725. The faces may meet at an edge positioned at the proximal end of the wedge 706, thereby forming a wedge. In some examples, wedge 706 may be secured in a position outside of working channel 725 by a biasing member, such as a spring, coupled to wedge 706 and a portion of distal tip 701. The biasing member (not shown) may be biased to hold wedge 706 in a position outside of working channel 725 with the longitudinal axis of the elevator generally parallel to the working channel 725. In some examples, wedge 706 may be biased away from working channel 725 by tab member 710. At least one angled surface 712 of wedge 706 may be configured to align with angled surface 708 of block 707. In some examples, a biasing member, such as a coil spring, may be coupled to hinge 751. The coil spring may bias hinge 751 toward block 707 and / or wedge 706. Pulling cable or actuator 750 proximally may cause wedge 706 to slide toward tab member 710 and urge tab member 710 toward working channel 725 against the force of the biasing member.

[0034] Block 707 may be fixedly coupled to distal tip 701 such that block 707 does not move relative to wedge 706. In some examples, when wedge 706 and block 707 do not move relative to one another, the position of tab member 710 does not change. Block 707 may have a longitudinal axis generally parallel to working channel 725 and an angled face 708 that substantially intersects the longitudinal axis of working channel 725. Face 708 may be configured to align with the face of wedge 706. Block 707 may include channel 755 (shown in FIG. 8 ) extending longitudinally through block 707. FIG. 8 illustrates block 707, including channel 755 and cable 750, as well as the position of block 707 relative to wedge 706 and working channel 725. Tab member 710 is not shown in FIG. 8 . Channel 755 may be configured to receive cable 750 and may allow cable 750 to move proximally and distally therethrough without rotation. Channel 755 may also prevent cable 750 from extending outside the outermost radial edge of block 707, so as to limit the distance wedge 706 may move toward working channel 725. Cable 750 may be fixedly coupled to wedge 706 (shown in phantom in FIG. 8 ), such that moving the cable proximally moves wedge 706 proximally, and moving cable 750 distally moves wedge 706 distally.

[0035] The tab member 710 may extend from the proximal portion to the distal portion of the distal tip 701. The tab member 710 may be rigid and may include a hinge 751 at the proximal portion of the tab member 710. In other examples, the tab member 710 may be flexible and the hinge 751 may be a living hinge. In some examples, the hinge 751 may include a coil spring or other biasing member. The distal-most end of the tab member 710 may be positioned adjacent to the opening 709 such that the tab member 710 may extend into the working channel 725 when the tab member 710 swings about the hinge 751. In some examples, the tab member 710 may abut the outer surface of the block 707 and the outer surface of the wedge 706. The tab member 710 may be configured to contact the tool 727 and hold the tool 727 in a position within the working channel 725. Tab member 710 may be biased away from working channel 725 by hinge / coil spring 751 such that in the absence of a force applied to tab member 710, tab member 710 moves to a position outside of working channel 725. Wedge 706, tab member 710, and block 707 may be made of any suitable biocompatible material and may be sufficiently rigid to operate as described herein.

[0036] During operation, a user may move cable 750 proximally, thereby pulling wedge 706 proximally. Angled surface 712 of wedge 706 may slide over angled surface 708 of block 707 as wedge 706 moves proximally, thus moving wedge 706 toward working channel 725. As wedge 706 moves toward working channel 725, wedge 706 moves tab member 710 toward working channel 725. As tab member 710 moves toward working channel 725, tab member 710 also rotates about hinge 751. As tab member 710 moves toward working channel 725, tab member 710 may extend through opening 709 into working channel 725 and may contact tool 727. In this manner, when a user pulls cable 750 proximally, tab member 710 moves into working channel 725 and pulls tool 727 toward the radially inner surface of working channel 725. As shown in FIG. 7C , after a user pulls cable 750 proximally, tab member 710 may press tool 727 against the radially inner surface of working channel 725, preventing movement of tool 727 within working channel 725. Tool 727 may be deflected by tab member 710 extending into working channel 725. In some examples, lever control cable 750 may be configured to lock in a closed position such that a user can lock wedge 706 in a position where tab member 710 presses tool 727 against the radially inner surface of working channel 725, in a manner similar to that described above in connection with elevators 242, 302, and 510. To release tool 727 and allow it to move within working channel 725, the user moves cable 750 distally, thus moving wedge 706 distally. Alternatively, by releasing cable 750 from a proximal position, tab member 710 can swing about hinge 751, automatically moving wedge 706 distally.

[0037] Although Figures 7A-7C show a wedge 706 positioned within the distal tip 701, alternative embodiments (not shown) may include a wedge 706, a block 707, and a distal portion 709 positioned distally of the distal tip 701 and / or outside the body 760 of the distal tip 701.

[0038] 9-11D illustrate another embodiment of an elevator assembly 902 including a rotating plate 930, a slider 932, and a frame 943 (shown in FIGS. 11A-11D ) that may be positioned within the distal tip 901 of a medical device. The plate 930 may include a circular opening or lumen 936 extending through a central portion of the plate 930 and a recess 935 extending from a first edge 941 to an opposing second edge 940 of the plate 930. In some examples, the plate 930 may have a circular profile. A cable or actuator 931 may be fixedly coupled to the plate 930. The cable or actuator 931 may be configured to move the plate 930, for example, to rotate the plate 930 within a recessed portion of the frame 943. The recess 935 may be configured to receive the slider 932 and may include opposing straight edges 941, 940 configured to slidably engage the slider 932. The circumference of lumen 936 may be configured to be greater than the circumference of working channel 925 , allowing working channel 925 to extend through lumen 936 .

[0039] The slider 932 may have a generally circular outer shape and may include an opening or lumen 937 extending through a central portion of the slider 932. The slider 932 may include opposing straight edges 950, 951. The opposing straight edges 950, 951 may be configured to align with the opposing straight edges 940, 941 of the recess 935 such that the edges 950, 951 slidably interlock with the edges 940, 941. The slider 932 may be configured to translate within the recess 935 and be constrained by the recess 935 to move along a longitudinal axis 977 of the recess 935. In some examples, when a force is applied to the slider 932 via the cable 933, the interlock between the edges 940, 941 and the edges 950, 951 prevents rotation of the slider 932 relative to the plate 930. 9 , lumen 937 can be sized such that working channel 925 can extend through lumen 937. Slider 932 can be fixedly coupled to cable 933. In some examples, cable 933 can be rigid and configured to move slider 932 within recess 935. Translation of cable 933 either proximally or distally can move slider 932 along longitudinal axis 977.

[0040] 11A-11D show an elevator assembly 902 including a plate 930, a slider 932, and a frame 943. The elevator assembly 902 is shown in FIGS. 11A-11D positioned relative to a tool 927; other components of the distal tip of the medical device are not shown. In some examples, the frame 943 may have a circular profile and may include multiple lumens 960, 961, 962 to allow multiple components of the medical device, such as multiple components of the elevator assembly 902, to move therethrough. For example, the frame 943 may include one or more lumens 960, 961 configured to allow cables from one or more image sensors and / or one or more illuminators to extend therethrough. In some examples, the frame 943 may be part of, or may be formed within, the distal tip 901 of the medical device. Lumen 962 can be configured to align with a working channel, such as working channel 925 of device tip 901. Frame 943 can be fixedly coupled to and / or incorporated into the distal tip 901 of the medical device. Frame 940 can be configured to hold rotating plate 930 and slider 932 such that rotating plate 930 can rotate relative to frame 940 and slider 932 can move within recess 935 without rotating. Frame 940 can include one or more brackets 970, 971 configured to couple plate 930 and slider 932 to frame 943 but allow plate 930 and slider 932 to move relative to the frame. Recess portion 976 can prevent slider 932 from moving beyond the radially outermost portion of plate 930. In some examples, frame 943 may limit the amount of rotation of plate 930 to 90 degrees, for example, by having lumen 961 configured to rotate plate 930 90 degrees and configured to stop the rotation of plate 930 with an edge that contacts cable 931. Frame 943 may be positioned within a distal tip, such as distal tip 901, at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of distal tip 901.By positioning the frame 943 at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the distal tip 901, a user can move the cable 931 proximally or distally to rotate the plate 930 relative to the frame 943. This is because the plate 930 rotates within the frame 943 but cannot move proximally or distally relative to the frame 943. Positioning the frame 943 at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the distal tip 901 can also facilitate movement of the slider 932 by pushing / pulling the cable 933. In some examples, rotation of the cable 931 can rotate the plate 930. In some examples, a protrusion or other “hard stop” mechanism can be incorporated into the rotating plate 930 that interacts with a mechanism on the frame 943, such as a protrusion on the frame 943, to limit rotation of the plate 930 beyond a desired range.

[0041] In operating a medical device with a distal tip including elevator assembly 902, a user may first rotate rotating plate 930 by moving cable 931 proximally or distally, thereby moving the distal end of cable 931 generally transverse to or otherwise about the longitudinal axis of distal tip 901. When a user rotates plate 930, a motion axis 977 of slider 932, which corresponds to the longitudinal axis of recess 935, rotates, and slider 932 moves to a different position relative to working channel 925. After rotating plate 930, a user may move slider 932 through recess 935 by moving cable, i.e., actuator 933. By moving slider 932, a portion of slider 932 may move within working channel 925 and contact tool 927. A user can move slider 932 so that slider 932 contacts tool 927 and presses tool 927 against the radially inner surface of working channel 925, placing tool 927 against the radially inner surface of working channel 925. Figures 11A-11D show various positions where tool 927 can be placed against the working channel, e.g., the radially inner wall of working channel 925, using elevator assembly 902. As shown in Figures 11A-11D, a user can rotate plate 943 and translate slider 932 to position tool 927 anywhere along the radially inner surface of working channel 925. In some examples, after the tool 927 is clamped between one side of the working channel 925 by the slider 932 and the tool 927 is stabilized within the working channel 925, such as by the rotating plate 930, the elevator assembly 902 allows the user to move the tool 927 to a desired position within the working channel. The elevator assembly 902 may allow for the use of larger working channels and / or smaller tools because it provides the user with a means to stabilize the tool at a user-defined point within the working channel and allows for more predictable tool orientation.

[0042] In some examples (not shown), plate 930 may be rotated by a mechanism in which a user rotates a knob on a medical device to actuate rotation of plate 930, and slider 932 may be translated by a mechanism in which a user rotates a knob on a medical device to move slider 932. For example, rotation of an actuator about a center of rotation in a medical device handle, e.g., handle 120, may push (move distally) or pull (move proximally) a cable (e.g., cable 931 or cable 933). In some examples in which movement of plate 930 or slider 932 is controlled by cable translation, a user may rotate a lever about a center of rotation, which may extend or retract an arm into a medical device handle, e.g., handle 120, which subsequently pushes or pulls the cable. In another example, the proximal end of a cable (e.g., cable 931 or cable 933) can be coupled to a dial, and the dial can be positioned such that rotation of the dial causes the cable to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the cable.

[0043] In another example, elevator assembly can include slider 932 and frame 943. Framework 943 does not have a recess to receive plate 930, but does include a recess configured to receive slider 932, similar to recess 935. In this example, plate 930 can be secured to the distal tip of the medical device in the same manner as elevator assembly 902, and slider 932 can be limited to a single axis of motion 977 because the orientation of slider 932 and recess within the frame is fixed. In this example of elevator assembly, a single cable would be required to move slider 932 within the recess in the frame.

[0044] 12-14 illustrate another embodiment of an elevator assembly 1270. The elevator assembly 1270 may include a support block 1203, a snare loop 1211, and a cable, i.e., actuator 1210, coupled to the snare loop 1211. FIG. 12 illustrates the support block 1203 without the snare loop 1211 or the cable 1210. The support block 1203 may include a lumen 1209 extending through a central portion of the support block 1203 and along the longitudinal axis of the support block 1203. The lumen 1209 may be configured to align with a working channel 1225 of the device tip (note that the working channel 1225 is shown in dotted lines for illustrative purposes). The lumen 1209 may extend from an opening on a first proximal surface 1230 of the block 1203 to an opening on a second distal surface 1231 of the block 1203. First surface 1230 can be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of working channel 1225, and second surface 1231 can be generally intersecting the longitudinal axis of working channel 1225. In some examples, second distal surface 1231 can be angled such that the distance between first surface 1230 and second surface 1231 increases as second surface 1231 extends distally. Channel 1205 can be positioned on a radially inner surface of lumen 1209 and near second surface 1231.

[0045] In some examples, the channel 1205 can be configured to receive the snare loop 1211. The channel 1205 can extend around the radially inner surface of the lumen 1209 and can be connected to or otherwise in communication with the exit lumen 1207. The exit lumen 1207 can extend from the channel 1205 to an opening in the first face 1230. The channel 1207 can be configured to receive the snare loop 1211 and / or the cable 1210. In some examples, when the block 1203 is positioned such that the working channel 1225 extends through the lumen 1209, the channel 1207 is positioned at an outer portion of the working channel 1225. A gap in the radially inner wall of the working channel 1225 can be disposed adjacent to the channel 1205 to allow the snare loop 1211 to move in and out of the channel 1205. The channel 1205 may be sized so that the snare loop 1211 can fit into and rest within the channel 1205 .

[0046] 13A-13C show elevator assembly 1270 with snare loop 1211 received within channel 1205 (FIG. 13A), with snare loop 1211 partially exiting channel 1205 and positioned within working channel 1225 (FIG. 13B), and with snare loop 1211 abutting tool 1227 against the radially inner surface of lumen 1209 (FIG. 13C). Snare loop 1211 may be coupled to cable 1210 within channel 1205, within channel 1207, or outside block 1203. Snare loop 1211 may be sufficiently rigid so that a user can move snare loop 1211 from a position outside channel 1205 to a position within channel 1205 without rotating cable 1210 proximally. The distal tip of the medical device may include a cavity within or adjacent to the working channel 1225, which may be configured to receive the block 1203 and prevent the block 1203 from moving proximally or distally relative to the distal tip.

[0047] In some examples, cable 1210 can be coupled to a lever (not shown) positioned on a handle of a medical device, such as handle 120 or another proximal portion of endoscope 104. A user can pull the lever on the proximal portion of endoscope 104, thereby pulling cable 1210 proximally. As cable 1210 is pulled proximally, snare loop 1211 can move out of channel 1205 and into working channel 1225. In some examples, the lever can be in an open position when snare loop 1211 is positioned in channel 1205 and working channel 1225 is open, allowing tool 1227 to move within working channel 1225. In some examples, the lever can be in a closed position when the snare loop 1211 is positioned within the working channel 1225 and presses the tool 1227 against the radially inner surface of the lumen 1209, thus stabilizing the tool 1227 within the working channel 1225 and preventing the tool 1227 from moving within the working channel 1225.

[0048] In some examples, the cable 1210 can include a sheath portion having a lumen extending therethrough, and the snare loop can include a proximal extension positioned within the lumen. In this example, a user can pull the proximal extension proximally to deploy the snare loop 1211 within the working channel 1225, and a portion of the snare loop 1211 can be received by the sheath.

[0049] FIG. 14 shows an alternative perspective view of elevator assembly 1270 with snare loop 1211 positioned in the same position as in FIG. 13C. In operation of a medical device with a distal tip including elevator assembly 1270, a user may first position tool 1227 within working channel 1225. The user may then pull cable 1210 proximally to withdraw snare loop 1211 from channel 1205 and position snare loop 1211 within working channel 1225. As the user pulls cable 1210 proximally, a proximal portion of snare loop 1211 is pulled through channel 1207, causing snare loop 1211 to contact tool 1227. Tool 1227 may be moved across working channel 1225 and then placed against the radially inner surface of working channel 1225. When tool 1227 is placed against the radially inner surface of working channel 1225, tool 1227 may be stabilized within working channel 1225. If the user wishes to release tool 1227 to create more space within working channel 1225, the user may move cable 1210 distally, thereby moving snare loop 1211 within channel 1205 and out of working channel 1225. In some examples, when the user moves cable 1210 proximally, snare loop 1211 slides back into channel 1225. In some examples, snare loop 1211 may retract or snap back into place within channel 1225 due to its own stiffness, combined with the geometry of block 1203. In some examples, snare loop 1211 may have a curvature that facilitates placement of snare loop 1211 within channel 1225. Block 1203 may include an angled surface that facilitates movement of snare loop 1211 into channel 1225. In other examples, a biasing member, such as a spring, may be coupled to the snare loop 1211 and may pull / push the snare loop 1211 within the channel 1225.

[0050] In some examples, the working channel 1225 may include multiple elevator assemblies (blocks 1203, snare loops 1211, and cables 1210) positioned along the working channel 1225, with each block 1203 rotated relative to each other block 1203. By using multiple blocks 1203 and snare loops 1211, a user may have the ability to move the tool 1227 to different areas within the working channel 1225 and stabilize the tool 1227 in different positions.

[0051] 15A-16B show another embodiment of an elevator assembly 1502 positioned at the distal tip 1501 of a medical device. The elevator assembly 1502 can include an elevator 1512 and a cable, or actuator 1514. The elevator 1512 can have a generally circular outer shape and can be positioned at the distal front surface of the distal tip 1501. The elevator 1512 can include an opening or lumen 1522 extending therethrough. In some examples, the longitudinal axis of the lumen 1522 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the distal tip 1501. The lumen 1522 can be configured to align with a working channel 1525. In some examples, the elevator 1512 can be positioned at the distal front surface 1520 such that the lumen 1522 is aligned with the opening of the working channel 1525. The elevator 1512 may further include a cavity 1511 configured to receive and couple to the cable 1514. In some examples, the cavity 1511 may act as a center of rotation when the cable 1514 is coupled to the elevator 1512 and positioned within the cavity 1511, such that when a user rotates the cable 1514 about the axis of the cable 1514, the elevator 1512 may rotate about the center of rotation positioned in the cavity 1511.

[0052] The cable 1514 may extend from the elevator 1512 to a proximal portion of the medical device. The cable 1514 may be rigid such that rotation of the proximal portion of the cable 1514 can cause rotation of the distal portion of the cable 1514. The cable 1514 may extend through a lumen (not shown) in the distal tip 1501. The distal portion of the cable 1514 may be fixedly coupled to the elevator 1512, for example, coupled to and positioned within the cavity 1511. The proximal portion of the cable 1514 may be fixedly coupled to a knob, for example, a knob positioned on the handle 120 (see FIG. 1 ), and rotation of the knob can cause rotation of the elevator 1512 at the distal tip 1501. As the elevator 1512 rotates, a portion of the elevator 1512 can contact the tool 1527 and move the tool 1527 toward the radially inner surface of the working channel 1525. Rotation of elevator 1512 may therefore provide the user with a means to move tool 1527 and bring tool 1527 against the radially inner surface of working channel 1525, thus preventing movement of tool 1527 within working channel 1525.

[0053] In some examples, the elevator 1512, the cable 1514, and / or a knob coupled to the cable 1514 can be coupled to a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases the elevator 1512 toward a position where the lumen 1255 is aligned with the working channel 1525, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 16A. In some examples, the biasing member can be coupled to the protrusion 1529 of the elevator 1512 (e.g., a spring attached to the protrusion 1529 and the distal face 1520 of the tip 1501). When a user rotates the cable 1514, the elevator 1512 rotates and blocks the working channel 1525, and then the user releases the cable 1514, the biasing member urges the elevator 1512 back to a position where the lumen 1522 is aligned with the working channel 1525.

[0054] In operation of a medical device including a distal tip 1501 with an elevator assembly 1502, a user may first position a tool 1527 within the working channel 1525. The user may then rotate the cable 1514 by knob or any other means to rotate the elevator 1512 and move a portion of the elevator 1512 toward the central longitudinal axis of the working channel 1525, and extend a portion of the elevator 1512 across the distal opening of the working channel 1525. As the user rotates the cable 1514, the elevator 1512 contacts the tool 1527 and moves the tool 1527 toward the radially inner surface of the working channel 1525. The tool 1527 may be moved through the working channel 1525 and then against the radially inner surface of the working channel 1525. When tool 1527 is placed against the radially inner surface of working channel 1525, tool 1527 can be stabilized within working channel 1525. When a user wishes to release tool 1527, the user can rotate cable 1514 in the opposite direction, thereby aligning elevator 1512 with the distal opening of working channel 1525 and moving the portion of elevator 1512 that extended across the distal opening of working channel 1525 away from the central longitudinal axis of working channel 1525.

[0055] In some examples, the cable, i.e., actuator 1514, may be prevented from rotating in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction by a stop component (not shown) in the distal tip 1501 or a protrusion (not shown) extending from the distal front surface 1520 when the lumen 1522 is aligned with the working channel 1525. Preventing rotation of the elevator 1512 in a counterclockwise or clockwise direction when the lumen 1522 is aligned with the working channel 1525 may make it easier for a user to position the lumen 1522 back into alignment with the working channel 1525 after the tool 1527 has been stabilized by the elevator 1512.

[0056] In some examples, the distal tip of the medical device can include multiple elevators that have the same structure as elevator 1512 but have different centers of rotation. By using multiple elevators 1512, a user can stabilize tool 1527 and / or couple tool 1527 to distal tip 1501 at multiple different locations within working channel 1525.

[0057] Any of the disclosed embodiments of the elevator assembly can be positioned proximal to the distal tip of an endoscope or other medical device. For example, any of the disclosed embodiments of the elevator assembly can be positioned proximal to an articulation joint of an endoscope and / or proximal to an articulating section of an endoscope. Any of the disclosed embodiments of the elevator assembly can include an adjustable locking mechanism and / or an adjustable actuator, such as a ratchet, to adjust the position of the elevator and accommodate different size tools.

[0058] (Addendum) As a preferred embodiment, the technical concept that can be grasped from the above embodiment will be described below. [Item 1] a shaft having a distal end and a lumen, the lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool extendable through the lumen and out of the opening; an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; a body coupled to the actuator, a portion of the body configured to extend into the lumen for selectively positioning the tool; Including, the main body includes a first extension portion, a second extension portion, a proximal portion connecting the first extension portion and the second extension portion, and a swing member; the actuator is coupled to the swinging member and contacts the curved surface of the swinging member; a portion of the first extension configured to move within the lumen when the actuator is moved proximally; a portion of the second extension configured to move within the lumen when the actuator is moved distally. Device. [Item 2] Item 10. The device of item 1, wherein the second extension has a U-shaped body surface for engaging the tool. [Item 3] Item 10. The device of item 1, wherein the body rotates about an axis positioned within the proximal portion when the actuator is moved proximally or distally. [Item 4] Item 1, wherein a radially inner surface of the first extension and a radially inner surface of the second extension are configured to align with a radially inner surface of the lumen. [Item 5] Item 1, wherein the actuator is coupled to the rocking member at a position offset from the rotation axis of the main body, and the longitudinal axis of the first extension portion and the longitudinal axis of the second extension portion are parallel. [Item 6] a shaft having a distal end and a lumen, the lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool extendable through the lumen and out of the opening; an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; a body coupled to the actuator, a portion of the body configured to extend into the lumen for selectively positioning the tool; Including, the body is positioned within a channel extending distally from an opening in the radially inner surface of the lumen; The device, wherein the channel has a longitudinal axis that intersects a longitudinal axis of the lumen, and the surface of the body is configured to slidably engage with the channel when the actuator is moved proximally or distally. [Item 7] 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the body is configured to slide proximally within the channel, move through the opening in the radially inner surface of the lumen, and enter the channel when the actuator is moved proximally. [Item 8] a shaft having a distal end and a lumen, the lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool extendable through the lumen and out of the opening; an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; a body coupled to the actuator, a portion of the body configured to extend into the lumen for selectively positioning the tool; a tab member that is swingable relative to the lumen; a block fixedly coupled to the shaft and including a first surface in contact with a second surface of the body, the first surface intersecting a longitudinal axis of the lumen, the second surface configured to slidably engage the first surface when the actuator is moved proximally or distally; Including, The body is configured to move toward the lumen and force the tab member into the lumen. [Item 9] Item 9. The device of item 8, wherein the tab member is biased away from the lumen. [Item 10] 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the actuator extends through a channel in the block. [Item 11] a shaft having a distal end and a first lumen, the first lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool extendable through the first lumen and from the opening; an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; a snare loop coupled to the actuator, a portion of the snare loop configured to extend into the first lumen for selectively positioning the tool; a support including a second lumen and a channel extending around a radially inner surface of the second lumen, the second lumen aligned with the first lumen, the channel receiving the snare loop; Including, The device, wherein the snare loop is configured to enter the second lumen when the actuator is moved proximally. [Item 12] Item 12. The device of item 11, wherein the snare loop is biased toward the channel. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the disclosed apparatus and methods without departing from the scope of the invention. Other aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the features disclosed herein. The specification and embodiments are to be considered as illustrative only.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus comprising: the device comprises a shaft having a distal end and a working channel, the working channel terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool extending through the working channel and extendable from the opening; The apparatus includes an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: a first actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; a rotatable plate coupled to the first actuator, the rotatable plate being angled such that a distal portion of the rotatable plate is located more distally relative to a proximal portion, the rotatable plate including a first opening and a recess extending through a central portion of the rotatable plate and configured to communicate with the working channel; a second actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; Including, the device comprises a circular slide member coupled to the second actuator and positioned within the recess, the slide member including a second opening through a central portion thereof configured to communicate with the working channel; the apparatus includes a frame fixedly disposed within the shaft and to which the rotatable plate is rotatably coupled; Device.

2. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein a portion of the sliding member is configured to extend into the working channel and apply a force to the tool when the second actuator is moved, and the sliding member is configured to move the tool so that it contacts a radially inner surface of the working channel.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rotatable plate is configured to rotate relative to the frame when the first actuator is moved, and wherein rotation of the rotatable plate rotates the sliding member.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the frame includes a wall configured to limit movement of the sliding member within a recess in the rotatable plate.

5. 1. An apparatus comprising: the device comprises a shaft having a distal end and a lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool being extendable through the lumen and extending from the opening; The apparatus includes an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: an actuator extending through the shaft; a body coupled to the actuator and including an opening; the body is positioned on the shaft distal to the opening and configured to apply a force to the tool when the actuator is rotated about its longitudinal axis, and the body is configured to move the tool into contact with a radially inner surface of the lumen.

6. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the opening in the body is configured to align with the lumen, and a biasing member is coupled to the body to bias the body into a position where the opening in the body is aligned with the lumen.

7. The device of claim 5 , wherein the body is flush with the distal front surface of the shaft.

8. 1. An apparatus comprising: the device comprises a shaft having a distal end and a lumen, the lumen terminating in a distally facing opening, a tool extendable through the lumen and out of the distally facing opening; The apparatus includes an elevator for engaging the tool, the elevator comprising: an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; a body coupled to the actuator, a portion of the body configured to extend into the lumen to selectively position the tool, the body including a first extension, a second extension, and a proximal portion connecting the first extension and the second extension; Equipped with an outer surface of the second extension portion being flush with a radially inner surface of the lumen in the first configuration; a portion of the second extension configured to move within the lumen when the actuator is moved proximally; The device, wherein a portion of the second extension is configured to exit the lumen when the actuator is moved distally.

9. The device of claim 8 , wherein a longitudinal axis of the first extension is configured to intersect with a longitudinal axis of the second extension.

10. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the second extension has a U-shaped body surface for engaging the tool, the proximal-most end of the first extension aligned with the proximal-most end of the second extension.

11. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the body rotates about an axis positioned within the proximal portion when the actuator is moved proximally or distally, and the first extension is spaced apart from the second extension.

12. The device of claim 8 , wherein a distal end of the actuator is received within a fastening chamber of the first extension.

13. The device of claim 12 , wherein the fastening chamber is located at a distal end of the first extension.

14. 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the fastening chamber includes a proximally facing opening, and the actuator extends through the proximally facing opening.

15. The device of claim 8 , wherein the first extension is positioned entirely outside the lumen and proximally from the distal end of the shaft.

16. The device of claim 8 , wherein a radially inwardly facing surface of the lumen includes a recess configured to receive the second extension.

17. The device of claim 8 , wherein the proximal portion extends from a proximal-most end of the first extension to a proximal-most end of the second extension.

Images