MIS camera lens cleaning device

Abstract

A lens cleaner for an MIS camera includes a first sleeve configured to surround a distal portion of a shaft of the MIS camera. The first sleeve is in slidable relation with the shaft. A first sponge is disposed on an inside (an inner surface) of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve. The first sleeve has a retracted position wherein the first sponge is compressed between the first sleeve and the shaft. The first sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft and the first sponge is expanded over a lens of the MIS camera to contact the lens.

Description

MIS CAMERA LENS CLEANING DEVICECross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 655,649, filed on June 4, 2024, now pending, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.Field of the Disclosure

[0002] The present disclosure relates to medical devices and more particularly, to lens cleaning devices, namely a lens cleaning component for cameras used in surgical procedures performed in an enclosed cavity. For example, the lens cleaning component may be attached to and / or integrated with an endoscopic camera.Background of the Disclosure

[0003] Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has revolutionized modern surgical practice by enabling surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions, reducing patient trauma, recovery time, and complications. Central to these procedures are MIS cameras, which provide visual guidance to surgeons by transmitting images from inside the patient’s body to external displays.

[0004] A critical challenge in minimally invasive surgery is maintaining clear visualization throughout the procedure. MIS camera lenses frequently become contaminated with blood, tissue debris, irrigation fluids, and condensation, which can severely compromise image quality and surgical precision. Poor visualization can lead to extended procedure times, increased patient risk, and potential complications.

[0005] MIS cameras used in endoscopic, laparoscopic, arthroscopic, and other minimally invasive procedures and other such imaging devices used in surgical procedures are at the core of efficient surgical setups, and the efficient use of camera affects the success and quality of the surgical procedures significantly.

[0006] The operating environment during a laparoscopic surgery inside a body is warm, humid, and various fluids are present. In addition, irrigation fluid is frequently and abundantly used to clean the area and to aid in suctioning out the excess fluids. Cameras used in suchenvironments are prone to fogging and lens obstruction affecting a surgeon’s view of the surgical location inside the body.

[0007] Current solutions for lens cleaning during MIS procedures have significant limitations. For example, external cleaning requires removal of the camera from the surgical site, interrupting the procedure and potentially compromising sterility.

[0008] There exists a need for an integrated lens cleaning system that can effectively clean MIS camera lenses without requiring removal from the surgical site, while maintaining sterility and providing reliable, repeatable cleaning action.Brief Summary of the Disclosure

[0009] The present disclosure provides a lens cleaner for MIS cameras and methods that address the aforementioned problems through an innovative slidable sleeve design with integrated cleaning elements. The device enables in-situ lens cleaning without camera removal, maintaining surgical continuity and sterility.

[0010] In one some embodiments, a device according to the disclosure is a lens cleaner for an MIS camera having a shaft with a distal end and a lens at the distal end. The lens cleaner includes a first sleeve configured to surround a distal portion of the shaft and maintain slidable relation with the shaft. A first sponge is disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve. The first sleeve has a retracted position wherein the first sponge is compressed between the first sleeve and the shaft, and an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft and the first sponge is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera.

[0011] In other embodiments, a device according to the disclosure provides an MIS camera with an integrated lens cleaning system incorporating the described slidable sleeve and sponge configuration.

[0012] Devices according to present disclosure may include additional features such as rotational capability, cleaning agents integrated into the sponge, securing devices to maintain the sleeve in retracted position, retainers to prevent overextension, and multiple sleeve configurations for enhanced cleaning performance.

[0013] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a lens cleaner which may be made up of two hollow sleeves coaxially placed externally to the shaft of the MIS camera. The sleeves are able to slide axially forward over the camera lens and rotate externally around the camera lens as well. Each cleaner sleeve may be lined with a sponge-like material which has high absorption properties. In some embodiments, the first and second sponges may include a material having an expansion coefficient allowing them to expand to 4* - 8* of their resting state and to compress to 1 / 2 - l / 4x of their resting state. The first sponge and the second sponge may be made from the same material or different materials.

[0014] In several embodiments, the disclosure provides advantages including:• Integration into camera - The device may have a sleeve which is an add on to the typical laparoscopic cameras. This allows a simple design, less complex moving parts, and less risk of failure during the surgery.• Similar controls - The sleeves may operate and move using the same or similar controls as existing laparoscopic cameras. There is no requirement for additional controls or components for the surgeon / staff to operate.• Clean and antifog - The use of multiple sleeves and offers the opportunity for multiple options to allow cleaning as well as anti-fog solution application in the same device in situ.• Replaceable - The sleeves or the cleaning material attached to the inside of the sleeve (i.e., sponge, etc.) can be made disposable and easily replaceable.• No removal of camera and no additional instrument - Using a device according to an embodiment disclosed herein, there is no need to remove the camera from the patient during the surgery it also does not require any other additional component to be used or operated for cleaning.• Maintained sterility - Cleaning occurs within the sterile surgical field• Reduced procedure time - Quick cleaning without workflow interruption• Enhanced image quality - Reliable removal of contaminants for clear visualization• User control - Surgeon-initiated cleaning when needed• Versatility - Compatible with various MIS camera configurations• Cost effectiveness - Reusable embodiments reduce per-procedure costs• Safety - Biocompatible materials and controlled cleaning actionDescription of the Drawings

[0015] For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the disclosure, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0016] Figure 1 : An illustration of a lens cleaner attached to an MIS camera according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first sleeve (labeled cleaner 1) and the second sleeve (labeled cleaner 2) are in the retracted position and the camera is exposed for use (i.e., the camera lens is unobstructed by the lens cleaner).

[0017] Figure 2: A cross-sectional illustration of the lens cleaner and MIS camera of Figure 1.

[0018] Figure 3: An illustration of the lens cleaner and MIS camera of Figures 1-2. In the depicted embodiment, the first sleeve (i.e., inner sleeve) is in the extended position and the first sponge is expanded over the lens.

[0019] Figure 4: A cross-sectional illustration of the lens cleaner and MIS camera of Figure 3.

[0020] Figure 5: An illustration of the lens cleaner and MIS camera of Figures 1-4. In the depicted embodiment, the second sleeve (i.e., outer sleeve) is in the extended position and the second sponge is expanded over the lens.

[0021] Figure 6: A cross-sectional illustration of the lens cleaner and MIS camera of Figure 5.

[0022] Figure 7: A cross-sectional illustration of the first sleeve of the lens cleaner of Figures 1-6 (shown in the retracted — i.e., first sponge compressed — position).

[0023] Figure 8: A cross-sectional illustration of the second sleeve of the lens cleaner of Figures 1-6 (shown in the retracted — i.e., second sponge compressed — position).Detailed Description of the Disclosure

[0024] The present disclosure provides a device for treating a lens of an endoscopic camera, a laparoscopic camera, and the like. The term MIS camera will be used for convenience to include endoscopic cameras, laparoscopic cameras, cameras used in robotic surgery, and other imaging devices used in minimally invasive surgical procedures. The term “cleaning or “cleaner” is also used for convenience and should be broadly viewed to include treatment of the lens — i.e., contacting and / or wiping the lens, applying an agent to the lens, etc. In some embodiments, the present disclosure may be embodied as a device configured to be attached to an MIS camera. In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a lens-cleaning component integrated in an MIS camera. The lens cleaner is the part of the camera probe (integrated or attached) and hence is readily present for usage when the camera needs cleaning.

[0025] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, in a first aspect, the present disclosure may be embodied as a lens cleaner 10 for an MIS camera 90. The MIS camera 90 has a shaft 92 with a distal end 93. The distal end may be positioned within a patient’s body during surgical procedures. The MIS camera 90 has a lens 94 at the distal end 93 to capture images of, for example, the surgical site. It should be noted that the term lens is intended to be broadly construed as any optical element for the MIS camera at the distal end of the shaft.

[0026] The lens cleaner 10 has a first sleeve 20 configured to surround a distal portion of the shaft 92. The first sleeve 20 is in slidable relation with the shaft 92. This slidable relation allows the first sleeve 20 to move longitudinally along the shaft 92 between retracted and extended positions. In some embodiments, the first sleeve 20 is rotatable about the shaft 92 (e.g., in embodiments where the shaft has a circular circumference).

[0027] With reference to Figures 3 and 4, a first sponge 22 is disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve 20. The first sponge 22 may be made from a biocompatible, sterile material, such as, for example, medical-grade polyurethane foam,polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), cellulose-based materials that provide appropriate cleaning properties while maintaining safety for medical use, or other materials, or combinations of materials. The first sleeve 22 has a retracted position (z.e., longitudinal position on the shaft). When the first sleeve 20 is in the retracted position (Figures 1 and 2), the first sponge 22 is compressed between the first sleeve 20 and the shaft 92 (i.e., between an inner surface of the first sleeve and an outer surface of the shaft). This compression maintains the sponge 22 in a compact configuration that does not interfere with camera operation or insertion through trocars or other access ports.

[0028] The first sleeve 20 has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft. For example, the first sleeve may be slid distally such that a distal portion extends beyond the distal end 93 of the shaft 92. In this position, the first sponge 22 is no longer constrained by the shaft 92 and expands radially inward to contact and clean the lens 94. When the first sleeve 20 is in the extended position, the first sponge 22 is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera. The expansion may be due to the inherent resilience of the sponge material or through additional spring mechanisms integrated into the sleeve design. In some embodiments, the first sponge is sized such that, when expanded (i.e., when the first sleeve is in the extended position), the first sponge covers the lens of the MIS camera. In other words, the first sponge is able to expand so as to make contact with the entirety of the lens. In this way, the first sponge is operable to wipe the lens. In some embodiments, the first sponge may include one or more agents (e.g., lens cleaning agent, antifog agent, etc.)

[0029] The first sleeve 20 may be configured to rotate around the shaft 92 of the MIS camera 90. This rotational capability enhances cleaning effectiveness by allowing the first sponge 22 to contact the lens 94 from multiple angles and with varying contact patterns. The rotation may be manual, actuated by the operator, or automated through an actuator integrated into the device.

[0030] The lens cleaner 10 may have a first securing device 24 to maintain the first sleeve 20 in the retracted position. For example, the operator may wish to prevent inadvertent extension of the first sleeve 20. The first securing device 24 may be a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, a detent, magnetic coupler(s), compression fittings, sliding locks, or other user-selectable fixture including combinations of these or others.

[0031] The lens cleaner 10 may include a first retainer 26 to prevent the first sleeve 20 from being overextended past the distal end 93 of the shaft 92. The first retainer 26 ensures thatthe first sleeve 20 cannot be completely removed from the shaft 92 during cleaning operations, maintaining the integrity of the cleaning system. The first retainer 26 may comprise a flange, ring, or other mechanical stop that limits the distal travel of the sleeve 20, or combinations.

[0032] In some embodiments, the lens cleaner 10 has a second sleeve 30 configured to surround at least a portion of the first sleeve 20. The second sleeve 30 is in slidable relation with the first sleeve 20, allowing independent movement of both sleeves. In some embodiments, the second sleeve is rotatable about the first sleeve and / or the shaft.

[0033] A second sponge 32 is disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the second sleeve 30. The second sleeve 30 has a retracted position (the retracted position of the second sleeve may be relative to the first sleeve and / or the shaft). When the second sleeve 30 is in the retracted position, the second sponge 32 is compressed between the second sleeve 30 and the first sleeve 20. The second sleeve 30 has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the second sleeve 30 extends beyond the distal end 93 of the shaft 92 and beyond the first sleeve 20, thereby allowing the second sponge 32 to expand over the lens 94. When the second sleeve is in the extended position, the second sponge is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera. In some embodiments, the second sponge is sized such that, when expanded (i.e., when the second sleeve is in the extended position), the second sponge covers the lens of the shaft. In other words, the second sponge is able to expand so as to make contact with the entirety of the lens. In this way, the second sponge is operable to wipe the lens. In some embodiments, the second sponge may include one or more agents (e.g., lens cleaning agent, antifog agent, etc.)

[0034] The second sleeve 30 may be rotatable around the first sleeve 20, the shaft 92 of the MIS camera 90, or both. This independent rotational capability allows complex cleaning motions and enhanced debris removal.

[0035] The lens cleaner 10 may have a second securing device 34 to maintain the second sleeve 30 in the retracted position. For example, the operator may wish to prevent inadvertent extension of the second sleeve. The second securing device may be a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, a detent, magnetic coupler(s), compression fittings, sliding locks, or other user-selectable fixture including combinations of these or others.

[0036] The dual sleeve configuration provides several advantages:• Sequential cleaning: The first sleeve can perform initial cleaning, followed by the second sleeve for final polishing or drying• Multiple cleaning: The first sleeve can perform a first cleaning, and then the second sleeve may perform a second cleaning after additional use of the camera• Different cleaning agents: Each sponge may incorporate different cleaning or treatment agents• Enhanced contact: Multiple sponges can provide more thorough cleaning action• Redundancy: If one cleaning system fails, the other remains available

[0037] The first sponge 22 and second sponge 32 (when present) are sized to adequately cover the lens 94 when their respective sleeves are in the extended position. The sponges 22, 32 may be shaped to conform to the lens geometry, which may be flat, convex, or have other optical configurations.

[0038] The first sponge and / or the second sponge may incorporate one or more agents to enhance cleaning performance. These agents may include lens cleaning solutions to remove organic and inorganic contaminants, antifog agents to prevent condensation formation, antimicrobial agents to maintain sterility, or combinations thereof. The agents may be pre-loaded into the sponge material during manufacturing or applied immediately before use.

[0039] The sleeves may be manufactured from biocompatible materials such as, for example, medical-grade plastics (polyether ether ketone, polyetherimide, polycarbonate, etc.), stainless steel, or titanium alloys. The materials may advantageously withstand sterilization processes including steam autoclaving, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide treatment, etc.

[0040] The sponges may be manufactured from materials that provide appropriate cleaning characteristics while maintaining biocompatibility. The porosity, density, and surface texture of the sponge materials may be optimized for specific cleaning applications.

[0041] The lens cleaner may be designed to withstand standard medical device sterilization procedures. The sponges may be replaceable components that are changed between procedures, or the entire cleaning system may be designed for single-use applications.

[0042] For reusable configurations, the cleaning system can be disassembled for thorough cleaning and sterilization. The modular design facilitates maintenance and replacement of worn components.

[0043] When cleaning is performed, the first sleeve of the device slides over the lens, thereby absorbing and / or removing material (e.g., fluid, etc.) deposited on lens surface. With a twisting motion (rotating), the lens surface may be wiped clean. After completion of these cleaning steps, the first sleeve may be retracted and the camera is ready to resume usage.

[0044] For additional cleaning using the second sleeve, the second sleeve of the device slides over lens. The second sponge may provide an agent, such as, for example, a cleaning agent or an antifog agent onto the lens surface. In some embodiments, the first action may be used to wipe, while the second action is used to apply an agent to the lens.

[0045] In some embodiments, the lens cleaner is made up of two hollow sleeves coaxially placed externally to the shaft of the MIS camera. The sleeves have the capability to slide axially forward over the camera lens and rotate externally around the camera lens as well. Each cleaner sleeve may be lined with a sponge-like material which has high absorption properties. In some embodiments, the first and second sponges may include a material having an expansion coefficient allowing them to expand to 4* - 8* of their resting state and to compress to 1 / 2 - l / 4x of their resting state. The first sponge and the second sponge may be made from the same material or different materials.

[0046] The sleeves may be controlled electronically or mechanically (e.g., manually). For example, the sleeves may be controlled from a proximal end with an interface such as button(s), slide(s), handle(s), etc. including combinations.

[0047] In another aspect, the present disclosure may be embodied as an MIS camera having an integrated lens cleaner as described above. In such an embodiment, the lens cleaning system may be a permanent part of the camera assembly. The MIS camera has a shaft with a distal end and a lens at the distal end. The MIS camera has a first sleeve configured to surround adistal portion of the shaft. The first sleeve is in slidable relation with the shaft. In some embodiments, the first sleeve is rotatable about the shaft (e.g., in embodiments where the shaft has a circular circumference).

[0048] A first sponge is disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve. The first sleeve has a retracted position (i.e., longitudinal position on the shaft). When the first sleeve is in the retracted position, the first sponge is compressed between the first sleeve and the shaft. The first sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft. When the first sleeve is in the extended position, the first sponge is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera. In some embodiments, the first sponge is sized such that, when expanded (i.e., when the first sleeve is in the extended position), the first sponge covers the lens of the shaft. In other words, the first sponge is able to expand so as to make contact with the entirety of the lens. In this way, the first sponge is operable to wipe the lens. In some embodiments, the first sponge may include one or more agents (e.g., lens cleaning agent, antifog agent, etc.)

[0049] The MIS camera may have a first securing device to maintain the first sleeve in the retracted position. For example, the operator may wish to prevent inadvertent extension of the first sleeve. The first securing device may be a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, or other user-selectable fixture including combinations. The MIS camera may include a first retainer to prevent the first sleeve from being overextended past the distal end of the shaft.

[0050] In some embodiments, the MIS camera has a second sleeve configured to surround at least a portion of the first sleeve. The second sleeve is in slidable relation with the first sleeve. In some embodiments, the second sleeve is rotatable about the first sleeve and / or the shaft.

[0051] A second sponge is disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the second sleeve. The second sleeve has a retracted position (the retracted position of the second sleeve may be relative to the first sleeve and / or the shaft). When the second sleeve is in the retracted position, the second sponge is compressed between the second sleeve and the first sleeve. The second sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the second sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft. When the second sleeve is in the extended position, the second sponge is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera. In some embodiments, the second sponge is sized such that, when expanded i.e., when the second sleeve is in the extended position), thesecond sponge covers the lens of the shaft. In other words, the second sponge is able to expand so as to make contact with the entirety of the lens. In this way, the second sponge is operable to wipe the lens. In some embodiments, the second sponge may include one or more agents (e.g., lens cleaning agent, antifog agent, etc.)

[0052] The MIS camera may have a second securing device to maintain the second sleeve in the retracted position. For example, the operator may wish to prevent inadvertent extension of the second sleeve. The second securing device may be a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, or other user-selectable fixture including combinations. The MIS camera may include a second retainer to prevent the second sleeve from being overextended past the distal end of the shaft.

[0053] The present disclosure encompasses various methods for treating an MIS camera lenses during surgical procedures using the apparatus described herein. These methods address the practical implementation of lens cleaning in clinical settings, from basic manual operation to sophisticated automated systems. The methods are designed to maintain surgical workflow efficiency while ensuring optimal image quality throughout minimally invasive procedures.

[0054] The methods described herein leverage the unique slidable sleeve and expandable sponge configuration to provide effective lens cleaning without requiring camera removal from the surgical site. This approach maintains sterility, reduces procedure time, and enables surgeons to maintain continuous visualization during complex surgical interventions.

[0055] The basic method of cleaning (i.e., treating) an MIS camera lens begins with the provision of an MIS camera system equipped with the lens cleaner as described above, with a first sleeve maintained in a retracted position during normal camera operation.

[0056] During the surgical procedure, the surgeon monitors image quality on a display monitor while conducting the minimally invasive intervention. The first sleeve may remain secured in the retracted position by a first securing device, ensuring that a first sponge stays compressed between an inner surface of the first sleeve and an outer surface of the camera shaft. This compressed configuration reduces the likelihood of interference with camera insertion through trocars or other access ports and maintains the camera's low profile during tissue navigation.

[0057] When image degradation is detected due to lens contamination (blood, tissue debris, irrigation fluids, condensation, etc.), the user (e.g., surgeon) releases the first securing device (when present) and extends the first sleeve.

[0058] With the securing device 30 released, the first sleeve is extended distally along the camera shaft. As the distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end (and lens) of the shaft, the first sponge is no longer constrained by the shaft’s outer surface. The inherent resilience of the sponge material causes it to expand radially inward, bringing it into contact with the lens. The expansion may be enhanced by integrated spring elements, shape-memory materials, or the like within the sponge structure.

[0059] Once the first sponge contacts the lens, cleaning may occur through several mechanisms:• Direct contact cleaning: The sponge material physically removes particulate contaminants• Absorption: Liquid contaminants are absorbed into the porous sponge structure• Chemical cleaning: Pre-loaded cleaning agents dissolve organic and / or inorganic deposits• Surface treatment: Antifog agents create a protective film to prevent future condensation

[0060] In some embodiments, the method may include rotating the first sleeve around the shaft while the first sleeve is in the extended position to enhance cleaning of the lens. The rotation may be performed manually by the user or through one or more actuators integrated into the camera system.

[0061] After cleaning is complete, the first sleeve is retracted to the retracted position, compressing the first sponge against the shaft. When present, the securing device is re-engaged to maintain the sleeve in the retracted position, allowing normal camera operation to resume.

[0062] The application of cleaning and treatment agents represents a sophisticated aspect of the cleaning methodology. Agents may be applied through several approaches:

[0063] In some embodiments, a second sleeve is provided with the MIS camera / lens cleaner. The second sleeve surrounds at least a portion of the first sleeve. The second sleeve includes a second sponge. The dual sleeve methodology may provide enhanced cleaning capabilities through sequential application of different treatment modalities. This approach recognizes that different types of contamination may require different cleaning strategies for optimal removal. The second sleeve is maintained in a retracted position during the surgical procedure. The second sleeve is extended to an extended position wherein a distal portion of the second sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft (and the first sleeve) and the second sponge expands over the lens. The second sleeve is retracted to the retracted position, compressing the second sponge against the shaft. When present, the second securing device is reengaged to maintain the second sleeve in the retracted position, allowing normal camera operation to resume. The first sponge may have the same agent(s) or different agent(s) from the second sponge.

[0064] Although the present disclosure has been described with respect to one or more particular embodiments, it will be understood that other embodiments of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

We claim:

1. A lens cleaner for an MIS camera, the MIS camera having a shaft with a distal end and a lens at the distal end, the lens cleaner comprising: a first sleeve configured to surround a distal portion of the shaft and in slidable relation with the shaft; a first sponge disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve; and wherein the first sleeve has a retracted position wherein the first sponge is compressed between the first sleeve and the shaft, and the first sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft and the first sponge is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera.

2. The lens cleaner of claim 1, wherein the first sleeve is rotatable around the shaft of the MIS camera.

3. The lens cleaner of claim 1, wherein the first sponge comprises one or more agents.

4. The lens cleaner of claim 1, further comprising a first securing device to maintain the first sleeve in the retracted position.

5. The lens cleaner of claim 4, wherein the first securing device is a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, or other user-selectable fixture.

6. The lens cleaner of claim 1, further comprising a first retainer to prevent the first sleeve from being overextended past the distal end of the shaft.

7. The lens cleaner of claim 1, wherein the first sponge is sized such that the first sponge is able to cover the lens of the shaft when the first sleeve is in the extended position.

8. The lens cleaner of claim 1, further comprising: a second sleeve configured to surround at least a portion of the first sleeve, and wherein the second sleeve is in slidable relation with the first sleeve; a second sponge disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the second sleeve; and wherein the second sleeve has a retracted position in which the second sponge is compressed between the second sleeve and the first sleeve, and the second sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the second sleeve extends beyond the first sleeve andthe distal end of the shaft and the second sponge is expanded over the lens of the MIS camera.

9. The lens cleaner of claim 8, wherein the second sleeve is rotatable around the first sleeve, the shaft of the MIS camera, or both.

10. The lens cleaner of claim 8, wherein the second sponge comprises one or more agents.

11. The lens cleaner of claim 8, further comprising a second securing device to maintain the second sleeve in the retracted position.

12. The lens cleaner of claim 11, wherein the second securing device is a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, or other user-selectable fixture.

13. The lens cleaner of claim 8, further comprising a second retainer to prevent the second sleeve from being overextended past the distal end of the shaft.

14. The lens cleaner of claim 8, wherein the first sponge is sized such that the first sponge is able to cover the lens of the shaft when the first sleeve is in the extended position.

15. An MIS camera, comprising: a shaft with a distal end and a lens on the distal end; a first sleeve configured to surround a distal portion of the shaft and in slidable relation with the shaft; a first sponge disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve; and wherein the first sleeve has a retracted position wherein the first sponge is compressed between the first sleeve and the shaft, and the first sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft and the first sponge is expanded over the lens.

16. The MIS camera of claim 15, wherein the first sleeve is rotatable around the shaft.

17. The MIS camera of claim 15, wherein the first sponge comprises one or more agents.

18. The MIS camera of claim 15, further comprising a first securing device to maintain the first sleeve in the retracted position.

19. The MIS camera of claim 18, wherein the first securing device is a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, or other user-selectable fixture.

20. The MIS camera of claim 15, further comprising a first retainer to prevent the first sleeve from being overextended past the distal end of the shaft.

21. The MIS camera of claim 15, wherein the first sponge is sized such that the first sponge is able to cover the lens of the shaft when the first sleeve is in the extended position.

22. The MIS camera of claim 15, further comprising: a second sleeve configured to surround at least a portion of the first sleeve, and wherein the second sleeve is in slidable relation with the first sleeve; a second sponge disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the second sleeve; and wherein the second sleeve has a retracted position in which the second sponge is compressed between the second sleeve and the first sleeve, and the second sleeve has an extended position wherein a distal portion of the second sleeve extends beyond the first sleeve and the distal end of the shaft and the second sponge is expanded over the lens.

23. The MIS camera of claim 22, wherein the second sleeve is rotatable around the first sleeve, the shaft, or both.

24. The MIS camera of claim 22, wherein the second sponge comprises one or more agents.

25. The MIS camera of claim 22, further comprising a second securing device to maintain the second sleeve in the retracted position.

26. The MIS camera of claim 25, wherein the second securing device is a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, or other user-selectable fixture.

27. The MIS camera of claim 22, further comprising a second retainer to prevent the second sleeve from being overextended past the distal end of the shaft.

28. The MIS camera of claim 22, wherein the first sponge is sized such that the first sponge is able to cover the lens of the shaft when the first sleeve is in the extended position.

29. A method of treating a lens of an MIS camera during a minimally invasive surgical procedure, the method comprising: providing an MIS camera having a shaft with a distal end and a lens at the distal end; providing a first sleeve surrounding a distal portion of the shaft and having a first sponge disposed on an inside of at least a distal portion of the first sleeve; maintaining the first sleeve in a retracted position during the surgical procedure, wherein the first sponge is compressed between the first sleeve and the shaft; extending the first sleeve to an extended position wherein a distal portion of the first sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft and the first sponge expands over the lens; and retracting the first sleeve to the retracted position.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising rotating the first sleeve around the shaft while the first sleeve is in the extended position to enhance cleaning of the lens.

31. The method of claim 29, wherein extending the first sleeve comprises releasing a first securing device that maintains the first sleeve in the retracted position.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the first securing device is a latch, a clip, a set of threads, a bayonet coupler, a detent, a magnetic coupler, a compression fitting, a sliding lock, or a combinations thereof.

33. The method of claim 29, further comprising applying one or more agents to the first sponge prior to extending the first sleeve, wherein the agents are lens cleaning agents, antifog agents, or both.

34. The method of claim 29, further comprising: providing a second sleeve surrounding at least a portion of the first sleeve and having a second sponge disposed therein; maintaining the second sleeve in a retracted position during the surgical procedure; extending the second sleeve to an extended position wherein a distal portion of the second sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the shaft and the second sponge expands over the lens; and retracting the second sleeve.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the first sponge and the second sponge comprise different cleaning agents for sequential treatment of the lens.

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