Device, systems, and methods for selectively attaching an ultrasound head to an endoscope

Abstract

A kit for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope is disclosed herein. The kit can include an applicator tool including a receiving end, the receiving end including a first jaw and a second jaw, the first and second jaws moveable between a closed configuration and an open configuration based on actuation of the tool. The kit can further include an attachment device to be received by the receiving end of the tool, and configured to selectively transition between a first position and a second position. The attachment device defines an opening including a first diameter in the first position a second diameter in the second position. The first diameter is less than a diameter of an ultrasound and medical scope assembly. The second diameter is greater than the diameter of the ultrasound and medical scope assembly.

Description

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVELY ATTACHING AN ULTRASOUND HEAD TO AN ENDOSCOPECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 654,783, titled DEVICE, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVELY ATTACHING AN ULTRASOUND HEAD TO AN ENDOSCOPE, filed May 31 , 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure is generally related to attachment devices for medical scopes and, more particularly, is directed to attachment devices for attachable imaging assemblies in connection to a medical scope.SUMMARY

[0003] In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a kit to selectively attach an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope. The kit can include an applicator tool including a receiving end, the receiving end including a first jaw and a second jaw, the first and second jaws moveable between a closed configuration and an open configuration based on actuation of the tool, and an attachment device configured to be received by the receiving end of the tool, and further configured to selectively transition between a first position and a second position, wherein the attachment device defines an opening including a first diameter in the first position, and wherein the attachment device defines the opening including a second diameter in the second position, wherein the first diameter is less than a diameter of an ultrasound and medical scope assembly, and wherein the second diameter is greater than the diameter of the ultrasound and medical scope assembly.

[0004] In other embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to an attachment device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope. The attachment device can include a body defining a first portion configured to selectively engage the ultrasound assembly and a second portion configured to at least partially accommodate the medical scope, a flexible strap coupled to the body and configured to traverse about the medical scope when the second portion of the body is at least partially accommodating the medical scope, and a locking element couplable to the body and configured to engage the flexible strap, wherein the locking element is configured to transition between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein the medical scope is secured betweenthe flexible strap and the second portion of the body when the second portion of the body is at least partially accommodating the medical scope, the locking element is engaging the flexible strap, and the locking element is in the locked position.

[0005] In still other embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a method for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope. The method can include aligning the ultrasound assembly into a desired arrangement relative to the medical scope, verifying an attachment device is in a second position, wherein the attachment device defines an opening including a first diameter less than a diameter of the ultrasound assembly and medical scope in the first position, and wherein the attachment device defines the opening large enough to receive the ultrasound assembly and medical scope in the second position, guiding the attachment device such that the opening surrounds the ultrasound assembly and medical scope while in the second position, positioning the attachment device about a predetermined position relative to a distal end of the medical scope, and selectively transitioning the attachment device from the second position to the first position, and wherein the first diameter being less than the diameter of the ultrasound assembly and medical scope secures the attachment device in the predetermined position relative to the distal end of the medical scope.

[0006] These and other features and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are there for purposes of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Various features of the aspects described herein are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The various aspects, however, both as to organization and methods of operation, together with advantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows:

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a system for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate perspective views of an attachment device configured for use via the system of FIG. 1 in a biased and stressed position, respectively, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a front and perspective view of another attachment device configured for use via the system of FIG. 1, according to at least one other nonlimiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an ultrasound assembly of the system of FIG. 1 configured for use with the attachment device of FIGS. 3A and 3B, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an assembly of the attachment device of FIGS. 3A and 3B and the ultrasound assembly of FIG. 4, according to at least one nonlimiting embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5B illustrates a section view of the assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates an applicator configured to install attachment devices, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a user selectively loading the attachment device onto the applicator of FIG. 6, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a user coupling the ultrasound assembly to the medical scope using an attachment device via the applicator of FIG. 6, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a user applying an attachment device to the ultrasound assembly and the medical scope via the applicator of FIG. 6, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a user removing an attachment device from the ultrasound assembly and the medical scope via the applicator of FIG. 6, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIGS. 11 illustrates a side view of an ultrasound head attached to a medical scope head via two attachment devices, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 13 illustrates a system of an ultrasound assembly coupled to a medical scope with sufficient slack, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIGS. 12 illustrates a side view of an ultrasound head intentionally positioned relative to an articulating medical scope head prior to coupling, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the ultrasound assembly of FIG. 13 coupled to the articulating medical scope of FIG. 13, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an ultrasound assembly coupled to a medical scope via a plurality of intentionally spaced attachment devices, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIGS. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a user removing attachment devices from an ultrasound assembly and medical scope, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a system for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate sectioned front views of a locking assembly configured for use via the system of FIG. 16, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIGS 18A-E illustrate sectioned front views of another locking assembly configured for use via the system of FIG. 16, according to at least one other non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of another system for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one other non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate a side and top view of a locking assembly configured for use via the system of FIG. 19, according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 21 illustrates a front view of an attachment device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIGS. 22A and 22B respectively illustrate a perspective and sectioned side view of a locking assembly configured for use via the attachment device of FIG. 21 , according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIGS. 23A-C illustrate side views of another locking assembly configured for use via the attachment device of FIG. 21 , according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIGS. 24A-C illustrate side views of another attachment device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one nonlimiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIGS. 25A-C illustrate side views of another locking device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one nonlimiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIGS. 26A-C illustrate a perspective and side views of another locking device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIGS. 27A-C illustrate a front and perspective views of another locking device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0037] FIG. 28 illustrates a front view of another attachment device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly body to a medical scope body, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various aspects of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments and aspects described in the disclosure and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements include not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments and aspects described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments and aspects described and illustrated herein are nonlimiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the invention contemplated herein. Furthermore, it is to be understood that such terms as "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0040] Before explaining various aspects of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein, it should be noted that the illustrative examples are not limited in application or use to the details disclosed in the accompanying drawings and description. It shall be appreciated that the illustrative examples may be implemented or incorporated in other aspects, variations, and modifications, and may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Further, unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions employed herein include been chosen for the purpose of describing the illustrative examples for the convenience of the reader and are not for the purpose of limitation thereof.

[0041] Various types of scopes are used by medical professionals to view the inside of the body. These scopes can be inserted into the body through natural openings and through various small incisions. Professionals may use these scopes to diagnose and treat patients as well as using these to aid during surgeries. Typical scopes image using visible light sources. Therefore, ultrasound assemblies can be utilized to provide additional imaging that can penetrate tissue within the body. Through the use of high- frequency soundwaves, images can be captured of embedded structures. The combination of scopes and ultrasound assemblies allows for a medical professional to obtain detailed real-time information about a patient’s body including target areas that may be obstructed by tissue.

[0042] Utilizing an ultrasound assembly externally to the body limits the angles that can be viewed in combination with the medical scope. Adding the ultrasound internally with the medical scope allows for greater articulation of the viewing angles and provides ultrasound imaging views that directly correlate with the point of view of the medicalscope. While endoscopic ultrasound systems exist, these are not the exclusive tool used in obtaining ultrasonic imaging with a medical scope. Due to a high expense of a typical endoscopic ultrasound system, these systems are generally used only in major hospitals. However, medical scopes without an integrated ultrasound system are used in physicians’ offices, most outpatient surgery centers, and virtually all hospitals. Because of this widespread use, medical professionals may independently couple an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope.

[0043] When attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, several issues can arise. A loose cable can result in connectivity issues in the imaging process including blurry images, poor signal quality, and even damage to the system caused by unwanted movement or strain on the cables. Aside from imaging issues, a loose assembly can cause health risks such as an increased risk of contamination or unwanted interference with the human body. Logistically, the ultrasound and scope combination need to be properly combined to ensure that a user includes complete control of the devices and to support the lifespan of the device. Therefore, proper handling of the ultrasound and medical scope requires that these devices be conjoined efficiently. Accordingly, there is a need for devices, systems, and methods for selectively attaching an ultrasound head to a medical scope.

[0044] Referring now to FIG. 1 , a system 100 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to FIG. 1 , the system 100 can include a kit, which can include one or more attachment devices 102 and / or an applicator 104. The applicator 104 can selectively engage with the attachment device 102 to enable selective attachment of the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106. As will be described in further detail with reference to FIG. 4, the ultrasound assembly 108 can include at least one ultrasonic transducer 402 and an ultrasound cable 404 connected to the at least one ultrasonic transducer 402. The ultrasonic transducer 402 can define an ultrasound head at a distal end of the ultrasound assembly 108. According to some aspects, the ultrasound assembly 108 can be replaced with other imaging technologies capable of being attached to a medical scope 106 for enhanced visualization and diagnostics. These may include scanning fiber devices, narrow band imaging devices, photoacoustic imaging devices, and optical coherence tomography imaging devices.

[0045] Still referring to FIG. 1 , the medical scope 106 may include a scope head and a scope body. The medical scope 106 may be used to directly image the body of the patient and may include a camera and a light, either of which may be integral to the medicalscope 106, itself. The medical scope 106 may allow for internal imaging of the body while remaining minimally invasive. For example, the medical scope 106 may include a minimal profile to ensure that it can be inserted through natural openings in the body or through small incisions. Further, the exterior of the medical scope 106 may be included of a rubber material that protects the electronic components housed within the body. The exterior of the medical scope 106 may include a low coefficient of friction with the patient’s body to limit interference between the patient’s body and the medical scope 106. The medical scope 106 may be flexible and composed of a surgical grade material safe to insert into a body. According to some aspects, the medical scope 106 may be capable of single or multi-axis articulation. The medical scope 106 head may be articulated indirectly from the actions of the user on the body of the medical scope 106. These indirect actions may include remote piloting of the medical scope 106 via a control unit, as depicted in FIG. 1 , or via robotics configured to control the medical scope 106 .

[0046] Additionally, the medical scope 106 may be supplemented via imaging capabilities, such as those provided by the ultrasound assembly 108. According to some aspects, the medical scope 106 may include a biopsy needle capable of obtaining tissue samples and implementing a variety of medical treatments. The exterior of the scope may include a low coefficient of friction with the patient’s body to limit interference between the patient’s body and the medical scope 106. The medical scope 106 may be any of a variety of scopes and probes designed for insertion into the body. According to some aspects, the medical scope 106 may be an endoscope, an upper endoscope, a duodenoscope, a laparoscope, an arthroscope, a gastroscope, a bronchoscope, a colonoscope, an ENT endoscope including an otoscope and a nasopharyngoscope, a cystoscope, a uteroscope, a laryngoscope, a mediastinoscope, a thorascoscope, a nephroscope, etc. The medical scope 106 may utilize fiber-optic imaging.

[0047] In further reference to FIG. 1 , the system 100 may further include an ultrasound assembly 108. The ultrasound assembly 108 may include an ultrasonic transducer 402 (FIG. 4) and a ultrasound cable 404 (FIG. 4). The ultrasound assembly 108 may include a minimal profile to ensure that it can be inserted through natural openings in the body or through small incisions. The exterior of the ultrasound assembly 108 may include a low coefficient of friction with the patient’s body to limit interference between the patient’s body and the ultrasound assembly 108. The ultrasound assembly 108 may be flexible and composed of a surgical grade material safe to insert into a body. Articulation of the ultrasound assembly 108 may be performed in conjunction with articulation of the medical scope 106 through the use of controls and / or attachment devices. The ultrasoundassembly 108 may be of varying configurations, including linear, curvilinear, or endocavitary ultrasounds, amongst others.

[0048] FIG. 1 further illustrates one or more attachment devices 102 configured for coupling the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106. The attachment device 102 may be made of a surgical grade material approved for use within the human body. According to some aspects, the attachment devices 102 may be made of a non-toxic material. According to still other aspects, the attachment devices 102 may be made of a material capable of degradation upon heightened exposure to the human body. According to still other aspects, the attachment devices 102 can be used in combination with other attachment devices present in the art. In some examples, the attachment devices 102 can work congruently with a sheath (otherwise referred to herein as an attachment assembly) used to couple the head of the medical scope 106 to the head of the ultrasound assembly 108. According to other non-limiting aspects, the attachment devices 102 may be used to couple additional surgical components to the medical scope 106. These additional surgical components may include lasers, water channels, air channels, forceps, brushes, snares, etc.

[0049] The attachment device 102 may be used to couple additional surgical components, such as the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106 such that the ultrasound assembly 108 retains a streamlined nature with a slim profile. Such a profile may ease the insertion of the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 into the body, improving comfort within the patient while retaining control of the the medical scope 106 and ultrasound assembly 108. As will be described in further detail herein, the attachment device 102 may further allow for all coupled devices to be controlled concurrently with the medical scope 106 in operation through one motion.

[0050] Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a non-limiting example of an attachment device 102 configured for use with the system 100 of FIG. 1 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 2A depicts the attachment device 102 in a biased position and FIG. 2B depicts the attachment device 102 in a stressed position. In the stressed position, the attachment device 102 can accommodate the medical scope 106 (FIG. 1) and the ultrasound assembly 108 (FIG. 1) and properly positioned relative to those devices and, in the biased position, the attachment device 102 returns to a reduced diameter and selectively secures the ultrasound assembly 108 (FIG. 1) to the medical scope 106 (FIG. 1) for use during a procedure. The attachment device 102 may be composed of an elastic material to allow for disfiguration between the biased and stressed positioned, as respectively depicted inFIGS. 2A and 2B. The biased position represents a natural and relaxed configuration of the attachment device 102, wherein the attachment device 102 defines an inner diameter D1 , as shown in FIG. 2A. In the stressed position, the attachment device 102 may be selectively disfigured and defines an inner diameter D2, as shown in FIG. 2B. D2 is greater than D1. The attachment device 102, for example, may be selectively disfigured by the applicator 104, in response to a user input. Upon release of the attachment device 102 in the stressed position, the attachment device 102 may return to its biased position. The attachment device 102 may be sized such that the opening created in the stressed position is large enough to accept insertion of the medical scope 106, ultrasound assembly 108, and any additional elements that the medical operator may need during operation such as additional components attached to the medical scope 106 and additional surgical elements.

[0051] In further reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the attachment device 102 may include an interior surface 204 and an exterior surface 202. The interior surface 204 may be made of a material with a high friction factor to properly couple the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106 without slipping. This may include using a material with a higher coefficient of friction relative to the interior surface 204 and / or reducing a friction factor on the exterior surface 202 by texturing the interior surface 204. The attachment device 102 may be designed for operation within the body with minimal interference. This may include having a minimal thickness such that the attachment device 102 does not significantly increase the profile of the medical scope and the ultrasound assembly. Additionally, the exterior surface 202 may include a lower coefficient of friction relative to the interior surface 204, enabling it to move about the body without causing irritation. The lower coefficient of friction may result from use of a different material and / or from reducing a friction factor on the exterior surface 202 by smoothing the surface relative to the interior surface 204. The attachment device 102 may further include materials, such as medical lubricants, or sterilized materials to further ease operation and / or insertion. The attachment device may be made from alternative materials to avoid allergic reactions to latex. The attachment device 102 could be composed of latex, nitrile, vinyl, neoprene, polyethylene, spandex, lycra, silicon, etc.

[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, another attachment device 300 configured for use with the system 100 of FIG. 1 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to some non-limiting aspects, the attachment device 300 may include one or more geometric features 302, 304 on its interior surface, which may be configured to reduce slipping. The geometric features 302,304 of the attachment device 300 may correspond to one or more geometric features 406 (FIG. 4) of the ultrasound assembly 108 and / or medical scope 106 and, therefore, may be configured to engage such geometric features 406 (FIG. 4) present on the ultrasound assembly 108, and / or the medical scope 106. The geometric features may include raised edges on an interior surface of the attachment device 300. When engaged with corresponding geometric features 406 (FIG. 4) of an ultrasound assembly 108 and / or the medical scope 106, the geometric features 302, 304 of the attachment device 300 may ensure proper positioning and / or alignment between the attachment device 300 and the ultrasound assembly 108 or medical scope 106.

[0053] In further reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a particular embodiment of the geometric features 302, 304 is disclosed. According to this non-limiting embodiment, the attachment device 300 may include a central fin 304 and one or more side fins 302. Both the central fin 304 and the side fins 302 may run parallel to the ultrasound assembly 108 when it is inserted in the opening of the attachment device 102. The side fins 302 may be sized to engage the sides of the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. When in proper alignment, each side fin 302 may abut the ultrasound assembly 108 on a first face of the side fin 302 and may abut the medical scope 106 on a second face of the side fin 302. The side fins 302 may be sized such that when the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 are properly inserted, the side fins 302 remove any excess gap between the two elements. Further, the side fins 302 may be rigid enough to prevent any rotation of the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 relative to each other, to ensure that the two elements remain properly aligned. According to some nonlimiting aspects, the side fins 302 may include additional texture present on the first face and second face to further limit rotation and translation of the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 relative to each other.

[0054] Still referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a central fin 304 may also be included. The central fin 304 may be configured to selectively engage with an inverse geometrical feature present on the medical scope 106, the ultrasound assembly 108, or any other component configured to be attached to the medical scope 106. Additional central fins 304 may be used, wherein each central fin 304 may be configured to engage with a corresponding additional element that the attachment device 102 is configured to be installed upon. In one example, this may include two central fins 304, one configured to engage with an inverse geometrical feature on the medical scope 106, and one configured to engage with an inverse geometrical feature on the ultrasound assembly 108. The inverse geometrical feature may include an aperture, for example. The central fin 304may be sized to engage the sides of the aperture. The central fin 304 may be sized such that when the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 are properly inserted, the central fin 304 may remove any excess gap between the two elements created by the aperture. Further, the central fin 304 may be rigid enough to prevent any rotation of the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 relative to each other, to ensure that the two elements remain properly aligned. According to some non-limiting aspects, the central fin 304 may include additional texture present on the surface to further limit rotation and translation of the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 relative to each other.

[0055] Continuing to refer to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the present disclosure contemplates other geometric features of altered configurations, according to other non-limiting aspects not shown. Such geometric features may include raised fins that run in an orthogonal direction to the ultrasound assembly 108 and medical scope 106. The raised fins may engage with recessed elements present in the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. The recessed elements may be positioned at a preferred position to ensure that the attachment device 300 is installed in a position to increase effectiveness.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of an ultrasound assembly of the system 100 of FIG. 1 including an inverse geometric feature 406 to the attachment device of FIGS. 3A and 3B is depicted, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. The ultrasound assembly 108 may include an ultrasonic transducer 402 and an ultrasound cable 404. The ultrasonic transducer 402 may also be referred to as the ultrasound head. Further, the ultrasound cable 404 may be referred to as the ultrasound body. As previously discussed, the ultrasound assembly 108 may include one or more geometric features 406, such as an indent or aperture, corresponding to and configured to selectively engage with the aforementioned geometric features 302, 304 of the attachment device 300. In a specific example, at least one geometric feature 406 of the ultrasound cable 404 may include an aperture defined within the ultrasound cable 404. The aperture may be sized to allow for engagement with the central fin 304 of the attachment device 300. According to some aspects, the aperture need not be an aperture, but a mere indent. However, as depicted in FIG. 4, a geometric feature 406, such as an aperture, may be defined all the way through the ultrasound cable 404 creating a complete opening. The central fin 304, therefore, may be sized such that it extends through the aperture even such that the central fin 304 engages with the medical scope 106 when the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 are properly aligned and attached via the attachment device 300. It shall be noted that FIG. 4 is illustrative of the type ofinverse geometric features (e.g., a protrusion and a recess) that could be utilized. However, according to some aspects, any corresponding geometric features configured for selective engagement can be used. Additionally, these inverse geometric features are not limited to an ultrasound assembly 108. Instead, these inverse geometric features may be utilized on the medical scope 106 or any other medical component that the user wishes to couple to the medical scope 106.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 5A, a perspective view of an assembly of the attachment device 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B and the ultrasound assembly 108 of FIG. 4 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. For the sake of clarity, the medical scope 106 has been excluded to illustrate the selective engagement of the attachment device 300 and the ultrasound assembly 108. As depicted in FIG. 5A, the attachment device 300 may be positioned along the ultrasound assembly 108 such that the attachment device engages with the aperture. The attachment device 102 may be rotationally positioned relative to the ultrasound assembly 108 until the central fin 304 of the attachment device 300 aligns and engages with the aperture. The central fin 304 may be sized with a width and a length approximately equal to a width and a length of the aperture such that the central fin 304 at least partially engages with the aperture. Accordingly, the central fin 304 may ensure proper positioning of the attachment device 300 relative to the ultrasound assembly 108 and / or medical scope 106 and can prevent unwanted rotation and / or translation of the ultrasound assembly 108 during use.

[0058] Referring now to FIG. 5B, a sectioned front view of the attachment device 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B in use is depicted, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. Once again, the attachment device 300 is positioned along the ultrasound assembly 108 such that the attachment device 300 engages the aperture. The attachment device 102 may be rotationally positioned until that the central fin 304 of the attachment device 300 aligns and engages with the aperture. Further, the side fins 302 of the attachment device 300 may engage with both the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. The attachment device 300 may remain in a stressed position, prevented from returning to its biased position by the the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. Thus, the attachment device 300 applies a biasing force on the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108, ensuring that the attachment device 300 remains secured to the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 6, an applicator 104 configured for use with the system 100 of FIG. 1 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. The applicator 104 may be configured to install the attachment devices 102,300 disclosed herein. Although the present disclosure will describe use of the applicator 104 to apply the attachment device 102 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, it shall be appreciated that the applicator 104 can be similarly implemented to apply the attachment device 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B. The applicator 104 may be a tool configured to assist with the application of such attachment devices 102 to the ultrasound assembly 108 and medical scope 106. As depicted in FIG. 6, the applicator 104 may include handles 604a,b and jaws 602a, &. The handles 604a,b may be pivotably configured to transition between a first position and a second position. A user may selectively transition the handles 604a,b between the first position and the second position by applying and releasing pressure on the handles 604a,b. The jaws 602a,b may selectively transition between a closed position and an open position in response to the handles 604a,b transitioning between the first position and the second position. In some non-limiting aspects, transitioning the jaws 602a, b and transitioning the handles may be inversely related, wherein squeezing the handles opens the jaws 602a,b, and releasing the handles closes the jaws 602a,b.

[0060] Still referring to FIG. 6, the jaws 602a,bof the applicator may include a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end may include a smaller profile than the proximal end to allow for acceptance of the attachment device 102. The jaws 602a,bmay be sized such that the profile of the jaws 602a,bin the closed position includes a smaller footprint that the attachment devices 102 when they are in their respective biased positions. This may allow for acceptance of the attachment device 102 onto the distal end of the jaws 602a,b. For example, the jaws 602a,bmay include a taper between the distal end and the proximal end to aid in the removal of the attachment device 102 from the applicator 104. The applicator 104 may be further configured such that the jaws 602a,bin the open position create a channel between them large enough to accept the medical scope 106, ultrasound assembly 108, and any additional devices that the user may couple to the medical scope 106 during a procedure.

[0061] In further reference to FIG. 6. The handles 604a,bof the applicator may be connected to the jaws 602a,bat a pivot point, which may facilitate transition of the jaws 602a,b. According to some embodiments, the handles of the applicator may be spring loaded to keep the jaws 604a,bin the closed position. In other embodiments, the handles may utilize pneumatic or hydraulic elements during articulation. The handles may feature a locking feature applying a force greater than the spring-loaded force to hold the jaws 602a,bin the open position. The handles may be sized such that they can be operated within a single hand of the user.

[0062] As will be described in further detail below, FIGS. 7-10 depict several perspective views of the system 100 of FIG. 1 in use. Although FIGS. 7-10 depict use of the attachment device 102 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, it shall be appreciated that the applicator 104 can be similarly implemented to apply the attachment device 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B or any other attachment device contemplated by the present disclosure.

[0063] Referring now to FIG. 7, a perspective view of a user selectively loading the attachment device 102 onto the applicator 104 of FIG. 6 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. A user may feed the jaws 602a,b through an opening defined in the attachment device 102 until the entirety of an interior face of the attachment device 102 is in full contact with the jaws 602a,b. The attachment device 102 may be loaded onto the applicator 104 while the jaws 602a,b are in the closed position. The applicator 104 may be sized to allow for receipt of the attachment device 102 around the jaws 602a,b when in the biased position. The jaws 602a,b may include a coefficient of friction large enough to hold the attachment device 102 in place without slipping. The jaws 602a,b may feature a rounded edge to lower the risk of tearing or damaging the attachment device 102 throughout the loading and unloading process. The jaws 602a,b may be sized such that the interior surface of the attachment device 102 may entirely abut the jaws 602a,b after loading. Upon opening the applicator 104 such that the jaws 602a,b are in the open position, the attachment device 102 may transition to its stressed position, as depicted in FIG. 2B.

[0064] Referring now to FIG. 8, a perspective view of a user coupling the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106 using an attachment device 102 via the applicator of FIG. 6 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. The applicator 104 handles 604a,b are squeezed together, which selectively transitioned the jaws 602a,b to the open position and the attachment device 102 to the stressed position. The applicator 104 may open a distance large enough to allow for the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 to pass through the opening of the attachment device 102 without interference. Accordingly, the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 may pass through the opening created by the attachment device 102 in the stressed position until reaching a predetermined position. In the depicted example, an ultrasonic head of the ultrasound assembly 108 may be attached to a head of the medical scope 106 using an attachment device 102. In this configuration, the jaws 602a,b should be sized to open the attachment device 102 such that the opening is larger than the combined profile of the ultrasonic head of the ultrasound assembly 108, the medical scope 106, and the attachment device 502.

[0065] Referring now to FIG. 9, a perspective view of a user applying an attachment device 102 to the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 via the applicator 104 of FIG. 6 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. As previously described, the applicator 104 defines an aperture between the jaws 604a, b sufficient enough to accommodate for the ultrasound assembly 108, the medical scope 106, and / or the attachment device 502 without interference. The attachment device 102 may be applied at a desired or a predetermined position based on geometric features of the attachment device 102, medical scope 106, and / or ultrasound assembly 108, as described in reference to FIGS. 3A-4. Application of the attachment device 102 may include positioning the attachment device 102 in the desired or predetermined position with respect to the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. Upon confirmation of the correct positioning, the handles 604a,b may be released, allowing for the attachment device 102 to transition back towards its biased position. Removal of the attachment device 102 from the jaws 604a,b Of the applicator 104 may include axially sliding the applicator 104 until the attachment device 102 is no longer around the jaws 604a,b of the applicator 104. The attachment device 102 is prevented from fully returning to its biased position by the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. Thus, the attachment device 102 applies a biasing force on the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108, ensuring that the attachment device 102 remains secured to the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. The interior face of the attachment device 102 may abut the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 at this point.

[0066] Referring now to FIG. 10, a side view of a user removing an attachment device from the ultrasound assembly and the medical scope via the applicator of FIG. 6 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 10, the user has applied two attachment devices 102 to the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106, as depicted in FIGS. 7-9, and the ultrasound assembly 108 — and more specifically, the transducer 402 — is properly positioned relative to the distal end of the medical scope 106. As previously described, removal of one of the attachment devices 102 from the jaws 604a,b of the applicator 104 may include axially sliding the applicator 104 until the attachment device 102 is no longer around the jaws 604a,bof the applicator 104. If the user desires to remove one or both of the attachment devices 102 from the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106, the user may apply a removal force to the attachment devices 102 greater than the aforementioned biasing force present between the attachment device 102, the ultrasound assembly 108, and the medical scope 106. According to somenon-limiting aspects, the attachment devices 102 may be rolled off of the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 11 , a side view of an ultrasound assembly 108 attached to a medical scope 106 via two attachment devices 102 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. The attachment devices 102 have been applied at a predetermined position, to properly position the transducer 402 of the ultrasound assembly 108 at the distal end of the medical scope 106. According to some aspects, the predetermined position is determined by one or more geometric features of the attachment devices 102, the medical scope 106, and / or the ultrasound assembly 108. Alignment may occur when the transducer 402 and the medical scope 106 are touching and a body of the ultrasound assembly 108 and a body of the medical scope 106 are running parallel. According to some aspects, the transducer 402 may be aligned approximately four millimeters beyond the distal end of the medical scope 106. The attachment device 102 may be applied to the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 wherein an interior face of the attachment device 102 is in full contact with the cable and medical scope 106.

[0068] Still referring to FIG. 11 , the one or more attachment devices 102 may be placed sequentially, without overlap, on the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 . According to some non-limiting aspects, the medical scope 106 may be configured to articulate in one or more directions. In such aspects, the ultrasound assembly 108 may be positioned on an articulating side of the medical scope 106 and in a predetermined position that creates a sufficient amount of slack D3 between the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106, as depicted in FIG. 12. Such slack D3 can facilitate a desired articulation of the medical scope 106, as depicted in FIG. 13. As depicted in FIG. 14, according to other non-limiting aspects, the attachment devices 102 may be positioned a predetermined distance away from the distal end to achieve desired mechanics between the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 (e.g., an articulation enabling slack). For example, a first attachment device 102amay be positioned at a distal end of the medical scope 106 and a second attachment device 102bmay be positioned between twenty and forty centimeters — and preferably, approximately thirty centimeters — away from the first attachment device 102a.

[0069] Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 14, one or more additional attachment devices 102c, 102^ may be used to achieve even more desired mechanics between the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 (e.g., securing the ultrasound assembly 108 along certain portions of the medical scope 106 while providing articulation enabling slackalong other portions of the medical scope 106). For example, a third attachment device 102cmay be positioned between fifteen and twenty five centimeters — and preferably, approximately twenty centimeters — away from the second attachment device 102b and a fourth attachment device 102^ may be positioned between fifteen and twenty five centimeters — and preferably, approximately twenty centimeters — away from the third attachment device 102c. Accordingly, the ultrasound assembly 108 has more slack over a first portion of the medical scope 106 defined between the first attachment device 102aand the second attachment device 102b, whereas a second portion of the medical scope 106 defined between the second attachment device 102band fourth attachment device 102dis more securely attached to the ultrasound assembly 108. Such a configuration allows the first portion of the medical scope 106 to freely articulate without adversely affecting the relative position of the transducers of the ultrasound assembly 108 at the distal end of the medical scope 106 due to the articulation.

[0070] According to some non-limiting aspects, visible indicia may be implemented on the attachment devices 102, the medical scope 106, and / or the ultrasound assembly 108 to indicate the proper placement of the attachment devices 102. For example, visible indicia may be provided on both the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 to indicate where the attachment device 102 should be positioned relative to the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. The attachment device 102, also, may include visible indicia to determine what portion of the attachment device should align with the predetermined position marked on the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. The attachment device 102 may include a translucent or transparent material to allow for visibility of the visible indicia on the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 while the attachment device is positioned around them. The visible indicia may be present on the cable, the medical scope, the attachment device, or any combination thereof. Proper positioning may be determined when the visible indicia are aligned. For example, visible indicia may be provided at positions thirty, fifty, and / or seventy centimeters away from the distal end of the medical scope 106. The attachment device 102 may include a proper placement where the center of the attachment device should align with the predetermined positioning. In this example, the attachment device 102 may include a visible indica about its center point. Proper alignment occurs whenever all three visible indica overlap, ensuring that the center of the attachment device 102 is positioned at the proper position relative to the distal end of the ultrasound assembly 108 and relative to the distal end of the medical scope 106.

[0071] In other non-limiting aspects, the predetermined position may be indicated by geometric features positioned on an attachment device, such as those described reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, and / or corresponding geometric features positioned on the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106, such as those described in reference to FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B. The geometric features may act as a physical indica for proper placement of the attachment device. In one example, the medical scope 106 may include a raised section, creating a ridge on the medical scope 106 at the predetermined position. When properly positioned, an attachment device may abut this ridge to create a natural stopping point for the user during application. In another example, the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 may include inverted geometric features with respect to the attachment device. The medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 may include a recessed channel at the pre-determined position. The attachment device may include a raised portion on an interior surface of the attachment device. Upon proper placement, the raised portion may rest within the recessed channel of the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108.

[0072] Referring now to FIG. 15, a perspective view of a user removing attachment devices 102 from an ultrasound assembly 108 and medical scope 106 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. As an initial matter, slack may be removed between the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 at the distal end by sliding the cable in a proximal direction. The user may secure the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 by grasping both elements. The user may then move the attachment device 102 towards the distal end of the medical scope 106. Moving may include sliding or unrolling the attachment device 102. This process may continue until the attachment device 102 moves beyond the head of the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. In order to avoid bunching, the user may keep the ultrasound assembly 108 flat against the medical scope 106. Alternatively, the attachment device 102 may be cut off using scissors with blunt tips and / or other devices. However, it may be important to take care and ensure the ultrasound assembly 108 and medical scope 106 are not damaged by the use of any scissors and / or other devices. According to some aspects, the attachment device 102 can be configured for single-use and may be considered medical waste after use. These single-use elements must be disposed of following local guidelines for medical waste. However, according to other non-limiting aspects, the attachment device 102 can be configured for sanitization and reuse.

[0073] Referring now to FIG. 16, a perspective view of a system 1600 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 1600 may include a medical scope 106, an ultrasound assembly 108, and an attachment device 1602. The attachment device 1602 may include additional features discussed in detail below. As discussed above, the medical scope 106 may include additional elements such as an imaging head movement sub-assembly 802 (FIG. 8) and / or a therapeutic needle. These additional elements may generate a force that can cause additional deflection between the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. Because of this force and other interferences that may arise throughout operation of the medical scope, the attachment devices 102 need to overcome greater forces while keeping the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 attached in the desired configuration.

[0074] Still referring to FIG. 16, the attachment device 1602 may utilize two separate elements to generate a greater attachment force between the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. The attachment device 1602 may utilize an elastomeric strap 1603 that can be stretched and tightened around the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108, and / or the attachment device 1602 may utilize a rigid material designed to compress around the medical scope. The rigid material may engage with the exterior of the medical scope 106 to compress the rubber and cause the rubber of the medical scope 106 to adhere against the rigid material of the attachment device 1602. Additionally, the attachment device 1602 may include a shelf to support the transducer 402 of the ultrasound assembly 108. Further, the shelf may support articulation of the therapeutic needle. The attachment device 1602 may further include a locking assembly 1605 configured to selectively tighten, secure, and release the strap 1603 to the attachment device 1602. The locking assembly 1605 may include any of the locking assemblies disclosed herein.

[0075] Referring now to FIG. 17, sectioned front views of a locking assembly 1605 configured for use via the system of FIG. 16 are depicted according to at least one nonlimiting embodiment of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 17, the attachment device 1602 may include a body 1702, a strap 1704, and a locking element 1706 of the locking assembly 1605. The strap 1704 and the locking element 1706 may be used to tighten the connection against the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108. The body 1702 may define a first portion 1708 configured to selectively engage the ultrasound assembly 108. In some configurations, the first portion 1708 may be defined to engage a transducer 402 (FIG. 4) of the ultrasound assembly 108. In otherconfigurations, the first portion may be defined to engage the ultrasound cable 404 (FIG. 4) of the ultrasound assembly 108. The first portion 1708 may include an inverted geometry to the shape of the ultrasound assembly 108 at the part of the ultrasound assembly 108 that is engaging with the first portion 1708. The first portion 1708 may tension fit about the ultrasound assembly 108. The body 1702 may be composed of a rigid plastic to hold its shape while the ultrasound assembly 108 is engaged against the first portion 1708. The body 1702 may further define a second portion 1710 configured to at least partially accommodate the medical scope 106. In some embodiments, the body 1702 may define two arms 1902 (FIG. 19) to further accommodate the medical scope 106. The second portion 1710 may include an inverted geometry to the shape of the medical scope 106 at the part of the medical scope 106 that is engaging with the second portion 1710.

[0076] In further reference to FIG. 17, the attachment device 1602 may further include a flexible strap 1704 coupled to the body 1702 and configured to traverse about the medical scope 106 when the second portion 1710 of the body 1702 is at least partially accommodating the medical scope 106. The flexible strap 1704 may be coupled to the body 1702 either directly or indirectly. In some non-limiting aspects, indirect coupling may occur by coupling the flexible strap 1704 directly to the locking element 1706, wherein the locking element 1706 couples directly to the body 1702. The flexible strap 1704 may couple with the locking element 1706 such that when the locking element 1706 is in the unlocked configuration, the flexible strap 1704 may be loose about the medical scope 106. When the locking element 1706 is in the locked configuration, the flexible strap 1704 may be fully in tension and stretched against the medical scope 106.

[0077] Continuing to refer to FIG. 17, the attachment device 1602 may further include a locking element 1706 couplable to the body 1702 and configured to engage the flexible strap 1704. The locking element 1706 may include a latch 1716 configured to engage with the body 1702 at a latching point 1718. In other non-limiting aspects, the locking element may include a plurality of obstructing elements, including interlocking teeth, hooks, rivets, clips, snap fasteners, etc. The locking element 1706 is configured to transition between an unlocked position (FIG. 17A) and a locked position (FIG. 17B). The ultrasound assembly 108 may be secured between the locking element 1706 and the first portion 1708 of the body 1702, when the first portion 1708 of the body 1702 is engaging the ultrasound assembly 108, and the locking element 1706 is in the locked position (FIG. 17B). According to some embodiments, the locking element 1706 may be pivotally connected to the body 1702 at a engagement point 1714. The locking element 1706 mayselectively engage the flexible strap 1704 at an engagement point 1714. In a specific example, the locking element 1706 may include two engagement points 1714 to engage the flexible strap 1704 at both ends of the strap 1704. The engagement points 1714 may be positioned such that transitioning the locking element 1706 from the unlocked position (FIG. 17A) to the locked position (FIG. 17B) may tighten the strap 1704 towards the body 1702. In the specific example with two engagement points 1714, each engagement point 1714 may be positioned such that transitioning the locking element 1706 to the locked position (FIG. 17B) engages both ends of the straps 1704 and accomplishes tightening in dual directions. Tightening the strap 1704 in a dual directional manner such as this may limit any torsional forces applied to the medical scope 106 during locking. Reducing the torque applied to the medical scope 106 limits the chances of the medical scope 106 twisting out of alignment during installation of the attachment device 1602. The medical scope 106 may be secured between the flexible strap 1704 and the second portion 1710 of the body 1702, when the second portion 1710 of the body 1702 is at least partially accommodating the medical scope 106, the locking element is engaging the flexible strap 1704, and the locking element 1706 is in the locked position (FIG. 17B).

[0078] According to some alternative non-limiting aspects, the flexible strap 1704 may secure the ultrasound assembly 108, and the locking element 1706 may secure the medical scope 106. In such non-limiting aspects, the flexible strap 1704 may be configured to traverse about the ultrasound assembly 108 when the first portion 1708 of the body 1702 is engaging the ultrasound assembly 108. The locking element 1706 may be configured to lock against the medical scope 106. In this non-limiting aspect, the medical scope 106 may be secured between the locking element 1706 and the second portion 1710 of the body 1702, when the second portion 1710 of the body 1702 is engaging the medical scope 106, and the locking element 1706 is in the locked position (FIG. 17B). Further, the ultrasound assembly 108 may be secured between the flexible strap 1704 and the first portion 1708 of the body 1702, when the first portion 1708 of the body 1702 is engaging the ultrasound assembly 108, the locking element 1706 is engaging the flexible strap 1704, and the locking element 1706 is in the locked position (FIG. 17B). Further, it shall be noted that it is anticipated that the following non-limiting aspects may be configured in the reverse configuration discussed in this paragraph. In these reversed configurations, the strap 1704 may traverse around the ultrasound assembly 108. Additionally, the locking element may encircle the medical scope 106. Additionally, it is understood that the positioning of the medical scope 106 and the ultrasound assembly 108 may be interchanged in their positions. In these non-limiting aspects, the medical scope 106 may engage with the first portion 1708 of the body 1702,and the ultrasound assembly 108 may be at least partially accommodated by the second portion 1710 of the body 1702.

[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 18A-D, sectioned front views of another locking assembly 1801 configured for use via the system of FIG. 16 are depicted according to at least one other non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to this embodiment, the locking element 1706 is not permanently coupled with the body 1702. The locking element 1706 may include a pivoting element 1802 configured to engage with the engagement point 1714 of the body 1702. In this embodiment, the locking element 1706 may transition between three separate configurations: detached (FIGS. 18A and 18B), unlocked (FIG. 18C), and locked (FIGS. 18D and 18E). The flexible strap 1704 may be permanently affixed to the body 1702 at one end of the strap 1704 and to the locking element 1706 at the other end of the strap 1704. According to this embodiment, the medical scope 106 may be secured between the flexible strap 1704 and the second portion 1710 of the body 1702, when the second portion 1710 of the body 1702 is at least partially accommodating the medical scope 106, the pivoting element 1802 is engaging the engagement point 1714 of the body 1702 (FIG. 18C), and the locking element 1706 is in the locked position (FIG. 18D). It shall be appreciated that the locking assembly 1801 of FIGS. 18A-D enables a user to acquire more leverage in wrapping the strap 1704 around the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 to achieve a more secure fit.

[0080] Referring now to FIG. 19, a perspective view of another locking assembly 1900 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to some non-limiting aspects, the body 1702 may further contain a separate locking mechanism configured to lock the medical scope 106 in the second portion 1710. In some examples, the body 1702 may further include an attachment device 1602 with two arms 1902a, 1902b extending from the body 1702 positioned underneath the strap 1704. According to some non-limiting aspects, the strap 1704 used by the locking assembly 1900 may be configured similar to the attachment device 102 of FIGS. 2A and 2B. The arms 1902a, 1902b may accommodate the medical scope 106 when the medical scope 106 is in the second portion 1710. The arms may extend outwardly from the body 1702, traversing the medical scope 106 when the medical scope 106 is accommodated by the second portion 1710. Each arm 1902a, 1902b may include a first width where the arm 1902a, 1902b attaches to the body 1702. Each arm 1902a, 1902b may include a second width at the end of the arm 1902 furthest from the attachment point to the body 1702. Thesecond width may be greater than the first width, such that the arm 1902a, 1902b tapers towards a greater width as the arm 1902 extends outwardly from the body 1702 creating a tapered edge 1904. The two arms 1902a, 1902b may be positioned such that the tapered edge 1904 allows for each respective arm 1902a, 1902b to traverse the medical scope 106 when accommodated by the second portion 1710. However, if the medical scope 106 extends away from the second portion 1710, the two arms 1902a, 1902b may include interference between the tapered edges 1904 preventing further motion and locking the medical scope 106 in place against the second portion. Accordingly, the two arms 1902a, 1902b of the attachment device 1602 can be properly positioned and engaged about the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 and the strap 1704 can be applied about the attachment device 1602 for additional security.

[0081] Still referring to FIG. 19, the arms 1902a, 1902b may be semi-flexible to allow for loading and unloading of the medical scope 106. An axis may be defined through the body of the medical scope 106. The interference occurs when the arms 1902a, 1902b are coaxially aligned about the medical scope 106 axis, and the tapered edges 1904 are adjacent such that they may engage with each other. Straigtening the arms 1902a, 1902b removes this coaxial aspect, and will remove the interfering effect due to the tapered edges 1904 no longer being adjacent. The locking mechanism of the arms 1902a, 1902b will occur when the medical scope 106 is accommodated by the second portion 1710 of the body 1702, and the arms 1902a, 1902b are bent such that they traverse the medical scope 106. Bending the arms 1902a, 1902b in this configuration may create the coaxial effect discussed above with the tapered edges 1904 aligned adjacently with each other. The strap 1704 may traverse both the medical scope 106 and the arms 1902a, 1902b , such that the arms 1902a, 1902b may be positioned between the medical scope 106 and the strap 1704. In this configuration, the strap 1704 may prevent the arms 1902a, 1902b from straightening, keeping the tapered edges 1904 aligned. To disengage the arms 1902a, 1902b the strap 1704 must first be loosened around the medical scope 106. This may occur by having the strap 1704 unengaged with the locking element 1706. This may also occur by having the strap 1704 engaged with the locking element 1706 while the locking element 1706 is in the unlocked configuration.

[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 20A and 20B, alternate interfacing mechanisms configured for use with the locking assembly 1900 of FIG. 19 are depicted according to at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. In alternative non-limiting aspects to the tapered edges 1904 discussed above (FIG. 19), the arms 1902a, 1902b may utilize other locking mechanisms. It is anticipated that the locking mechanism of the arms 1902may occur through alternative forms of interference. This interference may occur between two arms 1902. The interference may also occur between one arm 1902 and another component of the attachment device such as the body 1702 and the strap 1704.

[0083] Stil referring to FIGS. 20A and 20B, it is anticipated that the obstructing element may occur through the use of teeth 2002, 2004 on a first arm 1902 positioned to engage with teeth having opposite geometries on a second arm 1902. In one such configuration, the teeth 2002 may be positioned on the face of the first arm 1902 that is touching the medical scope 106 when the medical scope 106 is accommodated by the second portion 1710 (FIG. 20A). The teeth 2002 may be positioned on the face of the second arm 1902 that touches the strap 1704 as the strap 1704 traverses the medical scope 106 (FIG. 20A). These teeth 2002 may be positioned such that when both arms 1902 traverse the medical scope 106, the teeth 2002 interlock with each other, creating an interference preventing the arms 1902 from separating along the engagement plane. The teeth 2002 can be engaged and disengaged by pulling up on the first arm 1902a, potentially via an exposed tab or handle that may be subsequently covered by the strap 1704.

[0084] In further reference to FIG. 20B, the arms 1902 may include separate configurations, wherein a second arm 1902 defines an opening configured to receive a first arm 1902. The arms 1902 may include teeth 2004 positioned on the edge of the arm 1902 that engages with the other arm 1902. These teeth 2004 may be positioned such that an interlocking geometry is engaged when the first arm 1902 is positioned within the opening created by the second arm 1902. Once again, the teeth 2004 can be engaged and disengaged by pulling up on the first arm 1902a, potentially via an exposed tab or handle that may be subsequently covered by the strap 1704.

[0085] Referring now to FIG. 21 , a front view of another locking assembly 2100 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope is depicted according to at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. The locking assembly 2100 can include an attachment device 1602 with a flexible strap 1704 that is permanently affixed to the body 1702. The body may define one or more openings 2102 configured to allow the use of a therapeutic needle, an imaging head movement assembly (e.g., a tension member configured to move the ultrasound head and / or transducers thereof), and / or any other ancillary instrumentation. For example, according to one non-limiting aspect, an opening 2102 can server as a through-hole for a sheath and wire, which can actuate the distal end of the locking assembly. Movement of the ultrasound head of the ultrasound assembly 108 and ramp from such actuation can allow for the use of a therapeutic needle. The flexible strap 1704 and the body 1702 may be comprised of a plastic material. Theattachment device 1602 may further include a locking element 1706 configured to lock against the body 1702 and selectively engage with the strap 1704, which may include one or more obstructing elements on its ratcheting system end. Selective engagement of the strap may occur through the aid of a ratcheting system that selective engages the one or more obstructing elements. The ratchet system may employ the use of obstructing elements such as teeth 2104 positioned on the strap 1704 configured to engage with teeth of a ratchet teeth 2106 positioned on the locking element 1706 about the engagement point 1714. The strap teeth 2104 or notches may include one angled edge and one edge extending orthogonally from the strap body. The locking teeth 2104 may include one angled edge and one edge extending orthogonally from the locking element 1706. The angled edges may be positioned such that these faces engage during the process of engagement between the strap 1704 and the locking element 1706. The angled edges may be at an angle that allows for interference against the two faces of the teeth 2104, 2106 while still allowing for single directional travel. The orthogonal edges may be positioned to create an interference preventing disengagement of the strap 1704 with the locking element 1706. The orthogonal edges may engage with each other when the strap 1704 attempts to disengage, preventing bidirectional travel. The locking element may further include a release switch 2108. The release switch 2108 may transition between a closed position and an open position. When in the closed position, the release switch requires that the strap 1704 engages with the locking element 1706. When in the open position, the release switch allows for the strap 1704 to move past the locking element 1706 without engagement between the teeth 2104, 2106. When in the open position, the release switch 2108 allows for bidirectional travel of the strap 1704.

[0086] Referring now to FIGS. 22A and 22B, alternate strap 1704 and ratchet teeth 2106 configurations for use with the attachment device 1602 are depicted according to other non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, according to the nonlimiting aspect of FIG. 22A, the ratchet teeth 2106 can be configured to rotationally engage with obstructing elements, such as protruding teeth 2202 of the strap 1704, similar to how a gear functions. However, upon release, the ratchet teeth 2106 can be configured to rotate away, releasing engagement with the protruding teeth 2202 of the strap 1704, thereby allowing the strap 1704 to pass freely through the locking element. Alternately, several holes 2206 can be defined within the strap 1704, as depicted in FIG. 22B. The ratchet teeth 2106 can be configured to rotationally engage with the holes 2206 of the strap 1704. However, upon release, the ratchet teeth 2106 can be configured to rotate away, releasing engagement with the holes 2206 of the strap 1704, thereby allowing the strap 1704 to pass freely through the locking element.

[0087] Referring now to FIGS. 23A-C, side views of another locking assembly 2300 configured for use via the attachment device of FIG. 21 are depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. However, FIGS. 23A-C further clarify how, according to one aspect, the locking assembly 2100 may function. The locking assembly 2300 can include a locking element 1706 that may be attached to the body 1702 at the engagement point 1714. As discussed above, the locking element 1706 may transition between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The locking element 1706 may further act as a ratchet, tightening the strap 1704 against the medical scope 106 and ultrasound assembly 108, until the strap 1704 is at the desired tightness, as depicted in FIG. 23B. During transitioning of the locking element 1706, the strap teeth 2104 and / or the ratchet teeth 2106 may pivot about the engagement point 1714. The teeth 2104 may be configured to allow for single directional travel. The single directional travel may be defined such that the locking element may travel to the locked configuration without interference. Traveling to the unlocked configuration creates an interference between the locking element teeth 2106 and the strap teeth 2104. This interference pulls upon the strap 1704 creating a higher amount of tension around the medical scope 106. Once the strap 1704 is configured to apply the desired tension about the medical scope 106 and ultrasound assembly 108, the locking element 1706 can be secured in the locked position via latching point 1718, as depicted in FIG. 23C.

[0088] Referring now to FIGS. 24A-C, front views of another locking assembly 2400 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 are depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. Generally, the locking assembly 2400 may be configured to function similar to the locking assembly 2300 of FIGS. 23A-C. However, the locking assembly 2400 of FIGS. 24A-C uses obstructing elements 2402 and a channel 2404 instead of the locking element teeth 2106 and the strap teeth 2104 of the locking assembly 2300 of FIGS. 23A-C. Specifically, the locking assembly 2400 may include a strap 1704 configured to traverse around the medical scope 106 and selectively engage with the locking element 1706. Selective engagement may occur through the use of obstructing elements 2402 and a channel 2404. The obstructing elements 2402 may be beads, transverse ridges, recessed notches, and / or teeth, any of which may be integrally formed components of the strap 1704. When in the unlocked configuration, the channel 2404 may run parallel to the strap 1704. In the locked configuration, the channel 2404 may run orthogonally to the strap 1704, requiring that the strap 1704 bend to run through the channel 2404. The edges of the channel 2404 may be sized such that the beads 2402 can fit through the channel when in the unlocked configuration. However, the channel 2404 may be sized such thatthe beads 2402 interfere with the channel edges when in the locked configuration (FIG. 24C). The change in orientation of the channel may decrease the footprint through which the strap 1704 can travel, creating this point of interference. The closing of the channel may prevent the obstructing elements 2402 from traversing through the channel 2404 and, therefore, may lock the strap 1704 in place, allowing for the medical scope 106 to be secured against the body 1702. This can be accomplished via a latch 1716 configured to engage with a latching point 1718, as depicted in FIG. 24C.

[0089] Referring now to FIGS. 25A-25C, front views of another locking assembly 2500 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 are depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. The attachment device may include a strap 1704 configured to traverse around the medical scope 106 and selectively engage with the locking element 1706. Selective engagement may occur through the use of friction against a channel 2404 when the channel 2404 is in the closed position (FIG. 25C). When in the unlocked configuration, the channel 2404 may run parallel to the strap 1704. In the locked configuration, the channel 2404 may run orthogonally to the strap 1704, requiring that the strap 1704 bend to run through the channel 2404. The edges of the channel 2404 may be sized such that the strap 1704 can fit through the channel when in the unlocked configuration (FIGS. 25A and 25B). However, the channel 2404 may be sized such that the beads interfere with the channel edges when in the locked configuration (FIG. 25C). The change in orientation of the channel may decrease the footprint through which the strap 1704 can travel, creating this point of interference. The closing of the channel may lock the strap 1704 in place through the use of friction between the strap 1704 and the channel 2404, allowing for the medical scope 106 to be secured against the body 1702.

[0090] Referring now to FIGS. 26A-26C, perspective views and a sectioned front view of another attachment device 2600 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 are depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 26A, the attachment device 2600 can include a first attachment portion 2602aand a second attachment portion 2602b, each of which can be mechanically coupled or integral to a flexible strap 2604 positioned between the first attachment portion 2602aand the second attachment portion 2602b. The first attachment portion 2602acan include at least one hook 2606a, 2606b and the second attachment portion 2602b can include at least one hook 2606c. For example, according to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 26A, the first attachment portion 2602acan include a first hook 2606aand a second hook 2606b separated by a space and the secondattachment portion 2602b can include a third hook 2606capproximately centered along an edge of the second attachment portion 2602b. However, according to other non-limiting aspects, the first attachment portion 2602aand the second attachment portion 2602b can include any number of hooks in any number of positions. The at least one hook 2606a, 2606b of the first attachment portion 2602aand the at least one hook 2606cof the second attachment portion 2602b can be geometrically configured to correspond to a geometry of the portion of the ultrasound assembly 108 they are intended to mechanically engage. For example, the cable of the ultrasound assembly 108 includes a circular cross-section. Accordingly, the at least one hook 2606a, 2606b of the first attachment portion 2602aand the at least one hook 2606cof the second attachment portion 2602b can be circularly configured to hook around the circular cross-section of the the cable of the ultrasound assembly 108. However, according to other non-limiting aspects, alternate geometrical configurations of the at least one hook 2606a, 2606b of the first attachment portion 2602a, the at least one hook 2606cof the second attachment portion 2602b, and the ultrasound assembly 108 may be implemented to achieve the desired mechanical engagement.

[0091] According to FIG. 26B, the attachment device 2600 can be used to secure the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106. Specifically, the at least one hook 2606a, 2606b of the first attachment portion 2602acan be secured around the ultrasound assembly 108 via the aforementioned geometrical correspondence. The flexible strap 2604 can be stretched and pulled around the medical scope 106 and the at least one hook 2606c of the second attachment portion 2602b can be subsequently secured around the ultrasound assembly 108. As depicted in FIG. 26C, when secured to the ultrasound assembly 108, the third hook 2606cof the second attachment portion 2602b can be positioned between the first hook 2606aand the second hook 2606b of the first attachment portion 2602a. The hooks 2602a.csecure the flexible strap 2604 — and therefore, the ultrasound assembly 108 — to the medical scope 106, creating a biasing force provided via the flexible strap 2604 that ensures the arrangement is secure and stays in place during an operation.

[0092] Referring now to FIGS. 27A-C, perspective views and a sectioned front view of another attachment device 2700 for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly 108 to a medical scope 106 are depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 27A, the attachment device 2700 can include a first attachment portion 2702aand a second attachment portion 2702b. the first attachment portion 2702acan be configured to accommodate at least a portion of the ultrasound assembly 108, such as the cable portion. For example, the cable of theultrasound assembly 108 includes a circular cross-section. Accordingly, at least a portion of the first attachment portion 2702acan be circularly configured to accommodate the circular cross-section of the cable of the ultrasound assembly 108. As depicted in FIGS. 27A-C, the first attachment portion 2702acan be circularly configured with a diameter that establishes a friction fit between the first attachment portion 2702aand the cable of the ultrasound assembly 108. However, according to other non-limiting aspects, alternate geometrical configurations of the first attachment portion 2702aand the ultrasound assembly 108 may be implemented to achieve the desired mechanical engagement. The first attachment portion 2702acan further be mechanically coupled or integral to a flexible strap 2704. However, the flexible strap 2704 can be selectively attachable to the second attachment portion 2702b. For example, the second attachment portion 2702b can include at least one hook 2706a, 2706b configured to be inserted within and through at least one aperture defined within an end of the flexible strap 2704 that is not mechanically coupled or integral to the first attachment portion 2702a. For example, according to the non-limiting aspect of FIGS. 27A-C, the second attachment portion 2702b can include a first hook 2706aand a second hook 2706b disposed on opposite sides of a first end of the second attachment portion 2702b. However, according to other non-limiting aspects, the second attachment portion 2702b can include any number of hooks in any number of positions. The second attachment portion 2702b can be flexibly configured to fold upon itself and the at least one hook 2706a, 2706b of the second attachment portion 2702b can be configured to both selectively and mechanically engage a second end of the second attachment portion 2702b, as depicted in FIG. 27C.

[0093] FIG. 27C specifically depicts how the attachment device 2700 can be used to secure the ultrasound assembly 108 to the medical scope 106. For example, the first attachment portion 2702acan be secured around the ultrasound assembly 108 via the aforementioned geometrical correspondence and friction fit. The flexible strap 2704 can be stretched and pulled around the medical scope 106 and the at least one hook 2706a, 2706b of the second attachment portion 2702b can be inserted within and through the aperture defined within the free end of the flexible strap 2704. Due to its flexible nature, the second attachment portion 2702bcan be folded upon itself and the at least one hook 2706a, 2706b of the second attachment portion 2702b can be selectively, mechanically engaged with the second end of the second attachment portion 2702b. The at least one hook 2706a, 2706b and the second end of the second attachment portion 2702b may be sufficiently rigid to ensure a secure fit. Thus, as depicted in FIG. 27C, the hooks 2706a, 2706b secure the flexible strap 2604 — and therefore, the ultrasound assembly 108 — tothe medical scope 106, creating a biasing force provided via the flexible strap 2704 that ensures the arrangement is secure and stays in place during an operation.

[0094] Referring now to FIG. 28, a front view of another locking assembly 2800 configured for use via the attachment device of FIG. 21 is depicted according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to FIG. 28, the locking assembly 2800 can define a first portion 2802 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the ultrasound assembly 108 and a second portion 2806 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the medical scope 106. The first portion 2802 and the second portion 2806 can be geometrically configured to correspond to a geometry of at least the portion of the ultrasound assembly 108 and medical scope 106 they are respectively intended to accommodate. For example, both the cable of the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106 may include a circular cross-section, as depicted in FIG. 28. Accordingly, the first portion 2802 and the second portion 2806 of the locking assembly 2800 can be circularly configured to respectively accommodate the ultrasound assembly 108 and the medical scope 106. However, according to other nonlimiting aspects, alternate geometrical configurations of the first portion 2802, the second portion 2806, the medical scope 106, and the ultrasound assembly 108 may be implemented to achieve the desired accommodation. Additionally, the first portion 2802 and the second portion 2806 can be mechanically coupled and pivotable relative to one another via a pivot point 2804, which may include any suitable hinge or living joint.

[0095] Still referring to FIG. 28, a first plurality of teeth 2812amay be defined within or coupled to a first end 2801 of the locking assembly 2800 and a second plurality of teeth 2812b may be defined within or coupled to a second end 2803 of the locking assembly 2800. The first plurality of teeth 2812amay include a geometry that corresponds to the second plurality of teeth 2812bsuch that the first plurality of teeth 2812amay selectively and mechanically engage the second plurality of teeth 2812b. The second end 2803 of the locking assembly 2800 may further include a handle 2808 ergonomically configured for manual interactions. As depicted in FIG. 28, a user may insert at least a portion of the ultrasound assembly 108 within the first portion 2802 of the locking assembly 2800 and at least a portion of the medical scope 106 within the second portion 2806 of the locking assembly 2800. Using the handle 2808, the user can pivot the second portion 2806 about the pivot point 2804 and relative to the first portion 2802 until the medical scope 106 is properly accommodated by the second portion 2806. The user can subsequently pull up on the handle 2808 until the first plurality of teeth 2812aselectively and mechanically engage the second plurality of teeth 2812b. The second portion 2806 may define adiameter such that the medical scope 106 is tightly secured within the locking assembly 2800, potentially via a friction fit. Accordingly, a biasing force created between the medical scope 106 and the second portion 2806 of the locking assembly 2800 must be overcome to disengage the first plurality of teeth 2812afrom the second plurality of teeth 2812b. Thus, the handle 2808 may enable the user to achieve sufficient leverage to overcome the biasing force. However, the biasing force is sufficient enough to secure the depicted arrangement of the medical scope 106 and ultrasound assembly 108 during an operation and prevent unintentional release.

[0096] Examples of the methods and systems disclosed herein, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, are provided below in the following embodiments. An aspect of the methods may include any one or more than one of, and any combination of, the embodiments described below.

[0097] According to one non-limiting embodiment, a kit is disclosed. The kit can include an applicator tool including a receiving end, the receiving end including a first jaw and a second jaw, the first and second jaws moveable between a closed configuration and an open configuration based on actuation of the tool, and an attachment device configured to be received by the receiving end of the tool, and further configured to selectively transition between a first position and a second position, wherein the attachment device defines an opening including a first diameter in the first position, and wherein the attachment device defines the opening including a second diameter in the second position, wherein the first diameter is less than a diameter of an ultrasound and medical scope assembly, and wherein the second diameter is greater than the diameter of the ultrasound and medical scope assembly.

[0098] According to some aspects, the attachment device includes an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the interior surface is textured to increase a friction force between the attachment device and the ultrasound and medical scope assembly, and wherein the exterior surface is smooth to decrease a friction force between the attachment device and an interior of a human body.

[0099] According to some aspects, the attachment device includes at least one geometrical feature configured to accommodate the ultrasound assembly and the medical scope.

[0100] According to some aspects, the ultrasound assembly includes at least one inverted geometrical feature with inverse geometry to the at least one geometrical feature of the attachment device configured to accommodate the attachment device.

[0101] According to some aspects, the at least one inverted geometrical feature is positioned such that, when engaging the at least one geometrical feature, a head of the ultrasound assembly is properly aligned with a distal end of the medical scope.

[0102] According to some aspects, the first jaw and second jaw are tapered such that a diameter at the receiving end is smaller than a diameter at a second end of the jaws opposite the receiving end.

[0103] According to some aspects, the applicator tool further includes handles moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the handles pivot about a center point on the applicator tool, wherein the handles are apart in the first position, and wherein the handles are together in the second position.

[0104] According to some aspects, actuation of the tool includes actuating the handles, wherein the first position and the second position correlate with the closed configuration and open configuration, respectively.

[0105] According to another embodiment, an attachment device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope is disclosed. The attachment device can include a body defining a first portion configured to selectively engage the ultrasound assembly and a second portion configured to at least partially accommodate the medical scope, a flexible strap coupled to the body and configured to traverse about the medical scope when the second portion of the body is at least partially accommodating the medical scope, and a locking element couplable to the body and configured to engage the flexible strap, wherein the locking element is configured to transition between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein the medical scope is secured between the flexible strap and the second portion of the body when the second portion of the body is at least partially accommodating the medical scope, the locking element is engaging the flexible strap, and the locking element is in the locked position.

[0106] According to some aspects, the locking element includes a latch, and wherein the latch is configured to secure the ultrasound assembly in the first portion of the body when the locking element is in the locked position.

[0107] According to some aspects, the flexible strap includes a plurality of obstructing elements, and wherein the locking element is configured to selectively engage each of the obstructing elements.

[0108] According to some aspects, each of the plurality of obstructing elements is configured to apply a different tension on the flexible strap when the locking element is in the locked position.

[0109] According to some aspects, the plurality of obstructing elements includes notches, wherein the locking element further includes a ratcheting element configured to engage the notches, wherein the ratcheting element is configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, configured to allow for bi-directional travel of the strap when in the open position, and allow for single direction travel of the strap when in the closed position.

[0110] According to some aspects, the plurality of obstructing elements includes beads.

[0111] According to some aspects, the locking element is pivotally connected to the body.

[0112] According to some aspects, the locking element defines a channel configured to transition between an open position and closed position, wherein the channel is in the open position when the locking element is in the unlocked position, and wherein the channel is in the closed position when the locking element is in the unlocked position.

[0113] According to some aspects, the body further includes a first arm and a second arm configured to surround the medical scope, wherein the first arm defines a first interfering surface configured to engage with a second interfering surface defined on the second arm, and wherein engagement of the first and second interfering surface creates a self-locking engagement.

[0114] According to some aspects, the strap traverses around the body to prevent the first arm and second arm from disengaging while in the locked position.

[0115] According to yet another embodiment, a method for selectively attaching a ultrasound assembly to a medical scope is disclosed. The method can include aligning the ultrasound assembly into a desired arrangement relative to the medical scope, verifying an attachment device is in a second position, wherein the attachment device defines an opening including a first diameter less than a diameter of the ultrasound assembly and medical scope in the first position, and wherein the attachment devicedefines the opening large enough to receive the ultrasound assembly and medical scope in the second position, guiding the attachment device such that the opening surrounds the ultrasound assembly and medical scope while in the second position, positioning the attachment device about a predetermined position relative to a distal end of the medical scope, and selectively transitioning the attachment device from the second position to the first position, and wherein the first diameter being less than the diameter of the ultrasound assembly and medical scope secures the attachment device in the predetermined position relative to the distal end of the medical scope.

[0116] According to some aspects, the desired arrangement of the ultrasound assembly relative to the medical scope includes a head of the ultrasound assembly adjacent to a head of the medical scope at the distal end, sufficient slack between a body of the ultrasound assemble and a body of the medical scope to facilitate motion of the medical scope, and the body of the ultrasound assembly adjacent the body of the medical scope at the predetermined position.

[0117] The present invention has been described with reference to various exemplary and illustrative aspects. The aspects described herein are understood as providing illustrative features of varying detail of various aspects of the disclosed invention; and therefore, unless otherwise specified, it is to be understood that, to the extent possible, one or more features, elements, components, constituents, ingredients, structures, modules, and / or aspects of the disclosed aspects may be combined, separated, interchanged, and / or rearranged with or relative to one or more other features, elements, components, constituents, ingredients, structures, modules, and / or aspects of the disclosed aspects without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention. Accordingly, it will be recognized by persons having ordinary skill in the art that various substitutions, modifications, or combinations of any of the exemplary aspects may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, persons skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the various aspects of the invention described herein upon review of this specification. Thus, the invention is not limited by the description of the various aspects, but rather by the claims.

[0118] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and / or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

[0119] In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[0120] With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may be performed in any order. Also, although claim recitations are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations maybe performed in other orders than those which are described or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past-tense adjectives are not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise.

[0121] It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect,” “an aspect,” “an exemplification,” “one exemplification,” and the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “in an exemplification,” and “in one exemplification” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects.

[0122] As used herein, the singular form of “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0123] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example and without limitation, top, bottom, left, right, lower, upper, front, back, and variations thereof, shall relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the accompanying drawing and are not limiting upon the claims unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0124] The terms “about” or “approximately” as used in the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, means an acceptable error for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined. In certain aspects, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 1 , 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain aspects, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 50%, 200%, 105%, 100%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.05% of a given value or range.

[0125] In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters are to be understood as being prefaced and modified in all instances by the term “about,” in which the numerical parameters possess the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement techniques used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described hereinshould at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0126] Any numerical range recited herein includes all sub-ranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of “1 to 100” includes all sub-ranges between (and including) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 100, that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value equal to or less than 100. Also, all ranges recited herein are inclusive of the end points of the recited ranges. For example, a range of “1 to 100” includes the end points 1 and 100. Any maximum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly recite any sub-range subsumed within the ranges expressly recited. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification.

[0127] Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other disclosure material referred to in this specification and / or listed in any Application Data Sheet is incorporated by reference herein, to the extent that the incorporated materials is not inconsistent herewith. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

[0128] The terms "comprise" (and any form of comprise, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of include, such as "includes" and "including") and "contain" (and any form of contain, such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a system that "comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more elements possesses those one or more elements but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more features possesses those one or more features but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.

[0129] One or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configurable to,” “operable / operative to,” “adapted / adaptable,” “able to,”“conformable / conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that “configured to” can encompass active-state components and / or inactive-state components and / or standby-state components unless context requires otherwise.

[0130] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” refers to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and / or absolute.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A kit, comprising: an applicator tool comprising a receiving end, the receiving end comprising a first jaw and a second jaw, the first and second jaws moveable between a closed configuration and an open configuration based on actuation of the tool; and an attachment device configured to be received by the receiving end of the tool, and further configured to selectively transition between a first position and a second position, wherein the attachment device defines an opening comprising a first diameter in the first position, and wherein the attachment device defines the opening comprising a second diameter in the second position, wherein the first diameter is less than a diameter of an ultrasound and medical scope assembly, and wherein the second diameter is greater than the diameter of the ultrasound and medical scope assembly.

2. The kit of claim 1 , wherein the attachment device comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the interior surface is textured to increase a friction force between the attachment device and the ultrasound and medical scope assembly, and wherein the exterior surface is smooth to decrease a friction force between the attachment device and an interior of a human body.

3. The kit of claim 1 , wherein the attachment device comprises at least one geometrical feature configured to accommodate the ultrasound assembly and the medical scope.

4. The kit of claim 3, wherein the ultrasound assembly comprises at least one inverted geometrical feature with inverse geometry to the at least one geometrical feature of the attachment device configured to accommodate the attachment device.

5. The kit of claim 4, wherein the at least one inverted geometrical feature is positioned such that, when engaging the at least one geometrical feature, a head of the ultrasound assembly is properly aligned with a distal end of the medical scope.

6. The kit of claim 1 , wherein the first jaw and second jaw are tapered such that a diameter at the receiving end is smaller than a diameter at a second end of the jaws opposite the receiving end.

7. The kit of claim 1 , wherein the applicator tool further comprises handles moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the handles pivot about a center point on the applicator tool, wherein the handles are apart in the first position, and wherein the handles are together in the second position.

8. The kit of claim 7, wherein actuation of the tool comprises actuating the handles, wherein the first position and the second position correlate with the closed configuration and open configuration, respectively.

9. An attachment device for selectively attaching an ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, the attachment device comprising: a body defining a first portion configured to selectively engage the ultrasound assembly and a second portion configured to at least partially accommodate the medical scope; a flexible strap coupled to the body and configured to traverse about the medical scope when the second portion of the body is at least partially accommodating the medical scope; and a locking element couplable to the body and configured to engage the flexible strap, wherein the locking element is configured to transition between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein the medical scope is secured between the flexible strap and the second portion of the body when the second portion of the body is at least partially accommodating the medical scope, the locking element is engaging the flexible strap, and the locking element is in the locked position.

10. The attachment device of claim 9, wherein the locking element comprises a latch, and wherein the latch is configured to secure the ultrasound assembly in the first portion of the body when the locking element is in the locked position.

11. The attachment device of claim 9, wherein the flexible strap comprises a plurality of obstructing elements, and wherein the locking element is configured to selectively engage each of the obstructing elements.

12. The attachment device of claim 11 , wherein each of the plurality of obstructing elements is configured to apply a different tension on the flexible strap when the locking element is in the locked position.

13. The attachment device of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of obstructing elements comprises notches, wherein the locking element further comprises a ratcheting element configured to engage the notches, wherein the ratcheting element is configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, configured to allow for bi-directional travel of the strap when in the open position, and allow for single direction travel of the strap when in the closed position.

14. The attachment device of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of obstructing elements comprises beads.

15. The attachment device of claim 9, wherein the locking element is pivotally connected to the body.

16. The attachment device of claim 15, wherein the locking element defines a channel configured to transition between an open position and closed position, wherein the channel is in the open position when the locking element is in the unlocked position, and wherein the channel is in the closed position when the locking element is in the locked position.

17. The attachment device of claim 9, wherein the body further comprises a first arm and a second arm configured to surround the medical scope, wherein the first arm defines a first interfering surface configured to engage with a second interfering surface defined on the second arm, and wherein engagement of the first and second interfering surface creates a self-locking engagement.

18. The attachment device of claim 17, wherein the strap traverses around the body to prevent the first arm and second arm from disengaging while in the locked position.

19. A method for selectively attaching a ultrasound assembly to a medical scope, the method comprising: aligning the ultrasound assembly into a desired arrangement relative to the medical scope; verifying an attachment device is in a second position, wherein the attachment device defines an opening comprising a first diameter less than a diameter of the ultrasound assembly and medical scope in the first position, and wherein the attachment device defines the opening large enough to receive the ultrasound assembly and medical scope in the second position;guiding the attachment device such that the opening surrounds the ultrasound assembly and medical scope while in the second position; positioning the attachment device about a predetermined position relative to a distal end of the medical scope; and selectively transitioning the attachment device from the second position to the first position, and wherein the first diameter being less than the diameter of the ultrasound assembly and medical scope secures the attachment device in the predetermined position relative to the distal end of the medical scope.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the desired arrangement of the ultrasound assembly relative to the medical scope comprises: a head of the ultrasound assembly adjacent to a head of the medical scope at the distal end; sufficient slack between a body of the ultrasound assemble and a body of the medical scope to facilitate motion of the medical scope; and the body of the ultrasound assembly adjacent the body of the medical scope at the predetermined position.

Images