Body cavity examination blade, combination of body cavity examination blade and carrier, and method of positioning the body cavity examination blade in a body cavity

Abstract

A body cavity examination blade comprises an elongated blade-shaped body portion (12) configured to be inserted into a human or animal body cavity, and a connected manipulation portion (24). The manipulation portion has an outer side adjoining an outer side of the body portion configured to be facing a body cavity wall, and on its outer side is provided with an elongate protrusion (30). At least part of the protrusion extends from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The protrusion is a hook member or a pin member. The body cavity examination blade is to be combined with a carrier, such as a speculum or part thereof. The carrier comprises a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade to prevent movement of the body cavity examination blade relative to the carrier support portion in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the body cavity examination blade.

Description

[0001] Body cavity examination blade, combination of body cavity examination blade and carrier, and method of positioning the body cavity examination blade in a body cavity

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of medical inspections or examinations, and specifically to the field of internal examination of a body cavity of a human or an animal, in particular the vagina and the organs and tissue present there, more in particular the cervix and vaginal wall. More specifically, the invention relates to a body cavity examination blade. The invention further relates to a combination of the body cavity examination blade and a carrier, such as a speculum or part thereof. Still further, the invention relates to a method of positioning the body cavity examination blade.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is known to use a speculum for an internal examination of a body cavity, such as the vagina, and treatments of tissue and organs in the body cavity, such as the vaginal cavity. A speculum may comprise a construction having an upper blade member and a lower blade member which may be moved away from each other, either by rotation of the upper blade member relative to the lower blade member, or by a translational movement of the upper blade member relative to the lower blade member. Other speculum constructions having blade members being movable sideways relative to each other are also known.

[0006] The speculum is used to be able to examine the body cavity, by inserting the blade members of the speculum close together into the body cavity, and next moving the blade members away from each other for displacing internal tissue by the blade members to obtain a view of an organ located in the body cavity, and a view of the body cavity walls between the blade members. The blade members themselves may be not transparent, and thus cover and hide tissues behind them, from the point of view of an examiner. In some other embodiments, the blade members may be transparent to allow views of tissues behind them, from the point of view of an examiner.

[0007] With the blade members being moved away from each other, a gap between the blade members exists. The gap allows the internal body cavity wall there to be examined, but also allows tissue to protrude or bulge or collapse in the gap, which disadvantageously will at least partly obstruct a view of the organs in the body cavity and parts of the body cavity wall. To alleviate this disadvantage in case of an examination of the vagina, it has been proposed by GB design no. 4045688 to provide a vaginal side-wall retractor to be used in conjunction with a speculum. The retractor comprises two lateral blades each integrally formed on a half-tubular shaped retractor support portion, wherein the two retractor support portions are rotatably connected to each other to allow the lateral blades to take a closed position in which the blades, in particular distal blade ends, may contact each other, and an open position in which the blades, in particular the distal blade ends, are positioned away from each other. The retractor support portions are shaped to closely fit inside a corresponding speculum support portion of a speculum. In use, the speculum is inserted into the vagina first, and the blade members of the speculum are rotated away from each other to reach an open position. Next, the vaginal sidewall retractor is inserted into and partly through the speculum support portion of the speculum. The retractor support portions are pivoted to form a tubular shape by the speculum support portion forcing them to pivot, whereby the lateral blades take an open position. A stop on each retractor support portion prevents the vaginal side-wall retractor to be inserted into the speculum support portion too far. When the lateral blades of the retractor are in the use position, with the retractor support portions of the retractor locked radially inside the speculum support portion of the speculum, the lateral blades of the retractor are forced to take one specific open position, to push internal vaginal tissue away sideways.

[0008] A disadvantage of the known side-wall retractor is its bulky construction requiring relatively much material in its manufacturing. Other disadvantages of the known side wall retractor are its predetermined position once mounted in the corresponding speculum, and the predetermined, fixed and specific wide open position of the lateral blades which cannot be altered and is determined by its design, providing little or no possibilities for an examiner to position the lateral blades of the retractor differently in the bodies of different patients. Furthermore, for the same reason, the lateral blades are useless if the examiner would like to manipulate an organ, such as the cervix, to have it take a different position or orientation. A further disadvantage of the known side-wall retractor is the considerable decrease of the useful inner cross-section of the speculum support portion by the insertion of the retractor support portions of the retractor into the speculum support portion, thereby decreasing a field of view for the examiner and decreasing space for manipulation of any instrument to be brought into the body cavity through the speculum support portion. A still further disadvantage is the wide open position of the lateral blades when the side-wall retractor is mounted in the speculum, since hereby relatively wide wedge-shaped gaps are formed between the speculum blades and the lateral retractor blades. Such gaps allow body cavity tissue to bulge through the gap, which diminishes the field of examination for the examiner. A need exists to alleviate or overcome at least one of said disadvantages in a placement of one or more body cavity examination blades in a body cavity, in particular in combination with a carrier, such as at least part of a speculum.

[0009] US 6 024 696 A discloses hingeable side wall support blades integral with any of vaginal speculum parts that operatively lie circumferential to the view of the vagina, whereby the side wall support blades are movable from a collapsed position near the top or bottom blade to an upright position to press back the vaginal walls.

[0010] US 2014 / 039266 A1 discloses a disposable plastic vaginal speculum constructed for heavy duty use and / or for long duration gynecological procedures including vaginal surgical and electrosurgical procedures. The hinge region of the speculum is reinforced so that the speculum can bear forces of a magnitude normally bearable only by metal vaginal specula. The reinforcing element also functions as a smoke evacuation element.

[0011] US 2012 / 232 352 A1 discloses a vaginal dilator having side blades or having upper and lower blades comprising accessorial blades includes an upper blade, a press handle, a lower blade and a handle. The upper blade is connected with the lower blade by a pin. The press handle is engaged with the handle by a first dilating fixation device. The vaginal dilator having side blades also includes a circular-arc movable locating sleeve rotationally connected with the upper blade. A channel, a channel cover and a slot for inserting the channel cover are provided in the side blade. The vaginal dilator having side blades can be dilated and fixed in the up-down and leftright directions so as to provide a bigger field of vision.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] It would be desirable to provide a body cavity examination blade which can be placed in a flexible manner before, during and after examination, without affecting a position of a carrier, such as a speculum or part thereof, while the body cavity examination blade can take a stable position during examination, effectively holding back body cavity tissue.

[0014] To better address this concern, in a first aspect of the invention a body cavity examination blade in particular for use in examining the vagina and the cervix is provided, the body cavity examination blade consisting of a body portion and a manipulation portion. The body portion is elongated and blade-shaped, and is configured to be inserted into the body cavity. The body portion has a central longitudinal axis, a proximal end, an opposite distal end, an outer side (which may also be referred to as an outer surface) configured to be facing a body cavity wall, and an inner side opposite to the outer side. The manipulation portion, which is configured to be positioned outside the body cavity, is connected to the body portion at the proximal end of the body portion. The manipulation portion has an outer side (which may also be referred to as an outer surface) adjoining the outer side of the body portion. The manipulation portion on its outer side is provided with an elongate protrusion. At least part of the protrusion extends from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion.

[0015] The body cavity examination blade is to be used in combination with a carrier. Such a carrier may be a speculum or a part thereof, such as a speculum support portion of a speculum. The carrier comprises a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade to prevent movement of the body cavity examination blade relative to the carrier support portion in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade. While the protrusion can hold or lock the position of the body cavity examination blade relative to the carrier support portion in a direction of the longitudinal axis of the body portion, before the locking and during the holding or locking a movement of the body cavity examination blade in other directions is possible, such as by pivoting the body cavity examination blade around the location where the protrusion is engaged to the carrier support portion, and by moving the body cavity examination blade along the carrier support portion in a direction in a plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the body portion. This advantageously provides several degrees of freedom for an examiner using the body cavity examination blade in manipulating body tissue and / or a body organ to position and / or orient it, and in orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity in relation to the carrier support portion.

[0016] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion is a hook member, the hook member having a first hook portion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion, and a second hook portion adjoining the first hook portion and extending in the direction of the outer side of the body portion.

[0017] The hook member may be resiliently bendable, interacting with the carrier support portion on which it is configured to be hooked, to provide an easy snap lock connection. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion), although in some embodiments a rotation of the body portion around the holding or locking point in a direction at right angles to the inner or outer side of the body portion is possible to a limited extent without losing the holding or locking function. Also, in some embodiments rotations around the holding or locking point in the plane of the body portion are possible to a limited extent, as well as displacements along the carrier support portion, without losing the holding or locking function. At the same time, a rotation of the body portion relative to the locking point to a predetermined extent in a direction away from the inner side of the body portion provides a simple release from the carrier support portion.

[0018] The second hook portion may extend to contact the outer side of the body portion. However, in an embodiment the second hook portion extends in the direction of the outer side of the body portion while leaving a gap between the second hook portion and the outer side of the body portion. The latter feature allows for an easy mounting of the body cavity examination blade on a carrier support portion, wherein part of the carrier support portion may be inserted between the hook member and the body portion of the body cavity examination blade.

[0019] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the body portion is provided with a notch or recess at the outer side of the body portion near or opposite to the protrusion.

[0020] Here, a notch may have different shapes, such as a semispherical shape or a ridge or edge shape. A recess may also have different shapes, such as a through or blind hole, or a slot or groove. The notch or recess is configured to cooperate with another notch or recess on a carrier support portion to provide a holding engagement between the body portion and the carrier support portion, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion is provided with a notch or recess at its side facing the outer side of the body portion, and / or at its side facing away from the outer side of the body portion. Again, the notch or recess is configured to cooperate with another notch or recess or edge on a carrier support portion to provide a holding engagement between the body portion and the carrier support portion, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

[0022] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion is a pin member, the pin member extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The pin may have a circular, oval, rectangular or other cross-section. The pin member may be configured to be inserted into a blind or through hole or duct provided in or on a carrier support portion. The cross-section of the pin member, on the one hand, and the cross-section of the hole or duct, on the other hand, may be matched to provide a friction to hold or lock the position of the body cavity examination blade relative to a carrier support portion. In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion has an end facing away from the manipulation portion, wherein the end is provided with a backfolded resilient snap-lock arm. The arm may resiliently bend towards the protrusion, while passing a hole provided in a carrier support portion, such as in a collar part thereof. After passing the hole, the arm will snap back to a relaxed position, whereby a free end of the arm springs away from the protrusion. Thereby the free end of the arm provides a holding or locking function for the body cavity examination blade relative to a carrier support portion, after the arm has passed the hole, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

[0023] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the body portion near the proximal end at its outer side opposite the protrusion is provided with a support shoulder. The support shoulder contacts an inner side of a carrier support when pressure is exerted on the outer side of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade by body tissue, thus stabilizing the position of the blade.

[0024] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the body portion is provided with at least one integral flap enlarging the width of the body portion along a part of its length. Such embodiment is advantageous when applied in combination with a speculum having an upper blade member and a lower blade member which are connected rotatably or slidably to each other. When the blade members are opened, rotating or sliding the upper and lower blade members away from each other, such that a pie slice or wedge shaped or rectangular gap is created between the side of the lower blade member, and the corresponding side of the upper blade member, the body cavity examination blade including the flaps can be moved from between the upper and lower members through the gap to laterally outside the upper and lower blade members, either by a slight rotation of the body cavity examination blade around the body portion longitudinal axis, or by opening the blade members to such an extent that the body portion of the body cavity examination blade can be moved through the gap without even a slight rotation. By selecting a proper mutual position of the upper and lower blade members, a pressure exerted by body tissue on the body portion causes the at least one flap to come to rest against at least one of the sides of the speculum blade members, providing a positioning point for the body portion. The positioning point on one or both of the blade members (depending on the position of the flap or flaps), in combination with a protrusion engagement on a carrier support portion, provides two or more reference points for the body portion to keep the body cavity examination blade in position relative to a body cavity.

[0025] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the width of the body portion increases from a proximal end portion adjacent to the proximal end of the body portion to a distal end portion adjacent to the distal end of the body portion. Such embodiment, wherein the body portion is wedge-shaped, is particularly advantageous when applied in combination with a speculum having upper and lower blade members which are connected rotatably to each other. When the blade members are opened, rotating the upper blade member and lower blade member away from each other, a pie slice or wedge shaped gap is created between each one of the sides of the lower blade member, and the respective corresponding sides of the upper blade member. This gap can be closed or almost closed in an optimum manner by use of an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade having a width of the body portion that increases from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion of the body portion, whereby body cavity wall tissue is effectively prevented to enter the space between the blade members of the speculum. Different embodiments may have different width increases.

[0026] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the body portion is provided with at least one viewing through hole extending between the outer side and the inner side of the body portion. The hole allows for an examination of body cavity wall tissue visible through the hole, while at the same time the remainder of the body portion keeps the body cavity wall away from the space between blade members of a speculum. In an embodiment allowing improved visibility of the body cavity wall, part of the contour of the viewing through hole is parallel to the outer contour of the body portion to allow as much as possible of the body cavity wall to be viewed.

[0027] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the body portion is provided with at least one of a marking, examination through hole, edge indentation and body portion protrusion for manipulating, isolating, measuring, gauging or classifying of tissue structures, in particular wherein the examination through hole or indentation is provided with an inner cutting edge. For example, the marking may be a scale and / or comprises figures on the inner side of the body portion, and may stretch from the distal end of the body portion up to or near the proximal end of the body portion to allow easy reading of the marking. As another example, the examination through hole and / or edge indentation may have calibrated dimensions for measuring, gauging or classifying tissue structures, such as an organ, growth or abnormality, in the body cavity. As a further example, the examination through hole, edge indentation and / or body portion protrusion may be used to manipulate an organ or tissue. As a further example, the examination through hole and / or the edge indentation may comprise an inner cutting edge to cut tissue positioned in the hole or indentation, respectively, such as to remove a polypus. As a further example, the examination through hole and / or the edge indentation may be used to isolate an organ or tissue with the aim of treating the organ or tissue while its surrounding area is protected by the body portion and remains unaffected. In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion is mounted moveably on the manipulation portion for moving the protrusion towards and / or away from the outer side of the body portion. The movable mounting of the protrusion on the manipulation portion facilitates the mounting of body cavity examination blade on a carrier support portion.

[0028] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion is mounted rotatably on the manipulation portion, wherein the protrusion is connected to a spring portion configured to exert a force on the protrusion away from the manipulation portion in predetermined angular positions of the protrusion. The protrusion may be connected to a handle portion which may be used to rotate the protrusion to a position in which the mounting of the body cavity examination blade on a carrier support portion is facilitated, whereas a release of the handle portion brings the protrusion into a position to hold or lock the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion, through the force action of the spring portion.

[0029] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade, the protrusion is mounted slidably on the manipulation portion, for sliding the protrusion along the manipulation portion. A series of serrations on the manipulation portion, engageable by a holding arm connected to the protrusion, may hold or lock the protrusion into position to hold or lock the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion.

[0030] In an embodiment of the body cavity examination blade configured for use in examining a body cavity and anatomy or organs therein, in particular the vagina and the cervix, the body portion has a distal end portion adjacent to the distal end, the distal end portion of the body portion at its inner side is shaped concave to conform to a corresponding surface of an organ to be engaged by the distal end portion, in particular the cervix. Firstly, the concave shape may be as seen in a plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the body portion. This allows the distal end portion of the body portion to rest reliably and comfortably (for a patient to be examined) on the cervix to provide a positioning point for the distal end of the body portion. The reliability is provided by the large contact area between the distal end portion of the body portion and the cervix surface portion, where a pressure of vaginal wall tissue on the outer side of the body portion presses the inner side of the distal end portion of the body portion against the cervix surface, creating a friction sufficient to counteract or prevent displacement of the distal end portion relative to the cervix surface. The comfort for the patient is provided by the large contact area, avoiding concentrated local pressure on the cervix which might cause discomfort for the patient. The positioning point on the cervix, in combination with a protrusion engagement on a carrier support portion, provides two reference points for the body portion to keep the body cavity examination blade stably in position relative to the vagina and the cervix. Secondly, the concave shape may be at the inner side of the body portion, as seen along the longitudinal axis of the body portion. This allows to form a wide space in front (as seen by an examiner) of the cervix, wherein the space is large enough to view a front side and part of the lateral sides of the cervix. The space also facilitates the manipulation of equipment in the body cavity.

[0031] In an embodiment, the body cavity examination blade comprises a light member configured to emit light at the inner side of the body portion. In an embodiment, the light member may be a light guide having a light input end located on or near the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, allowing easy connection to a light source. At the light emitting end of the light guide, light from the light source may be directed to the space of the body cavity to be examined, in particular to an organ present there. In another embodiment, the light member may be a light emitting device placed at the inner side of the body portion.

[0032] In an embodiment, the body cavity examination blade comprises a duct extending in the body portion, wherein at least one open end of the duct is provided at the inner side of the body portion. The duct allows smoke and plumes which are generated inside the body cavity by medical treatment to be discharged from the body cavity. The open end of the duct may be provided near the distal end portion of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade, or generally in the region stretching from the distal end portion to the proximal end portion.

[0033] In some embodiments, the body cavity examination blade, it is made of, or covered by an electrically insulating material, such as a plastic or rubber material. The body cavity examination blade may e.g. be manufactured by injection moulding or 3D printing. The insulating properties of the material prevent unintended effects of live electrodes of surgical equipment on body cavity tissue covered or contacted by the body cavity examination blade, such as in a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) treatment.

[0034] In a second aspect of the invention, a combination of the body cavity examination blade according to the invention and a carrier, in particular a speculum or part thereof, is provided. The carrier comprises a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade and configured to prevent movement of the body cavity examination blade relative to the carrier support portion in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade.

[0035] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade is a hook member, the hook member having a first hook portion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion, and a second hook portion adjoining the first hook portion and extending in the direction of the outer side of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar near an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade. The collar has a radial end edge. The hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked on the edge to provide an easy snap lock connection. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion).

[0036] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a hook member, the hook member having a first hook portion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion, and a second hook portion adjoining the first hook portion and extending in the direction of the outer side of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade. The hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked on the first end edge to provide an easy snap lock connection. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion).

[0037] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a hook member, the hook member having a first hook portion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion, and a second hook portion adjoining the first hook portion and extending in the direction of the outer side of the body portion while leaving a gap between the second hook portion and the outer side of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, wherein the carrier support portion on its outer surface is provided with at least one recess, and wherein the hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked in the at least one recess to provide an easy snap lock connection. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion). In a further embodiment of this combination, the recess is a blind or through hole in the carrier support portion configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion. In another further embodiment of this combination, the recess is a tangentially extending slot configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion. The carrier support portion may comprise a plurality of recesses, arranged in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion once the body cavity examination blade is mounted and / or arranged at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the body portion once the body cavity examination blade is mounted, to provide a plurality of positions of the body examination blade relative to the carrier support portion.

[0038] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a hook member, the hook member having a first hook portion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion, and a second hook portion adjoining the first hook portion and extending in the direction of the outer side of the body portion while leaving a gap between the second hook portion and the outer side of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, wherein the carrier support portion on its outer surface is provided with at least one tangentially extending ridge, and wherein the hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked on the at least one ridge to provide an easy snap lock connection. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion). The carrier support portion may comprise a plurality of ridges, arranged in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion once the body cavity examination blade is mounted and / or arranged at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the body portion once the body cavity examination blade is mounted, to provide a plurality of positions of the body examination blade relative to the carrier support portion.

[0039] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a pin member, the pin member extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar near an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar being provided with at least one hole configured to accommodate the pin member. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion). In a further embodiment of this combination, the pin member is configured to be held in the hole by friction..

[0040] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a pin member, the pin member extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The pin member has an end facing away from the manipulation portion, and the end is provided with a backfolded resilient snap-lock arm. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar near an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar being provided with at least one hole configured to accommodate the pin member, wherein the backfolded resilient snap-lock arm is configured to be hooked on the collar on the side of the collar configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion)

[0041] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a pin member, the pin member extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises at least one radially outwardly extending collar portion at an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar portion being provided with at least one hole configured to accommodate the pin member. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion). In a further embodiment of this combination, the pin member is configured to be held in the hole by friction. The frictional engagement allows the body cavity examination blade to be positioned and held in the hole in different positions with respect to the carrier support portion.

[0042] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is a pin member, the pin member extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises at least one axially extending duct, wherein the duct is configured to accommodate the pin member. Once held or locked on the carrier support portion, a movement of the body cavity examination blade in the direction of the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier edge is rendered difficult (in particular by pressure on the body portion by body tissue of the patient which holds the body cavity examination blade in position relative to the carrier support portion). In a further embodiment of this combination, the pin member is configured to be held in the duct by friction. The frictional engagement allows the body cavity examination blade to be positioned and held in the duct in different positions with respect to the carrier support portion.

[0043] In an embodiment of the combination, the body portion at the proximal end at its outer side opposite the protrusion is provided with a support shoulder, wherein the carrier support portion comprises an end edge configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, and wherein the end edge is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder and the protrusion. The support shoulder contacts an inner side of the carrier support when pressure is exerted on the outer side of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade by body tissue, thus stabilizing the position of the blade.

[0044] In an embodiment of the combination, the body portion is provided with a notch or recess at its outer side near or opposite to the protrusion, and the carrier support portion at its side facing the outer side of the body portion is provided with a corresponding recess or notch configured to provide a holding or locking engagement between the body portion and the carrier support portion, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

[0045] In an embodiment of the combination, the protrusion is provided with a notch or recess at its side facing the carrier support portion, and the carrier support portion at its side facing the protrusion is provided with a corresponding recess or notch configured to provide a locking engagement between the protrusion and the carrier support portion, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

[0046] A notch may have different shapes, such as a semispherical shape or a ridge shape. A recess may also have different shapes, such as a through or blind hole, or a slot or groove.

[0047] In a further aspect, a carrier comprising a carrier support portion is provided.

[0048] In an embodiment of the carrier, the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge, wherein the carrier support portion on its outer surface is provided with at least one recess. In a further embodiment of the carrier, the recess is a hole. In another further embodiment of the carrier, the recess is a tangentially extending slot. In an embodiment of the carrier, the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge, wherein the carrier support portion on its outer surface is provided with at least one tangentially extending ridge.

[0049] In an embodiment of the carrier, the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar at an end of the carrier support portion, the collar being provided with at least one hole.

[0050] In an embodiment of the carrier, the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises at least one radially outwardly extending collar portion near an end of the carrier support portion, the collar portion being provided with at least one hole.

[0051] In an embodiment of the carrier, the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises at least one axially extending duct.

[0052] In a still further aspect of the invention, a method of positioning the body cavity examination blade according to the invention into a body cavity is provided. The method comprises the steps of:

[0053] - providing a carrier comprising a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade;

[0054] - orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity; and

[0055] - engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion.

[0056] The engaging step may be performed after the orienting step, but may also be performed before the orienting step. The method provides flexibility in manipulation of the body portion in the body cavity, and thereby flexibility in manipulation of body cavity wall tissue and organs by the body cavity examination blade, before and also after engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion.

[0057] When the carrier is a speculum or part thereof, the carrier support portion is a speculum support portion.

[0058] In an embodiment of the method, using a body cavity examination blade configured for use in examining the vagina and the cervix, the body portion has a distal end portion adjacent to the distal end, and wherein the distal end portion at its inner side is shaped concave to conform to a corresponding surface of the cervix. The step of orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity comprises bringing the inner side of the distal end portion of the body portion in the vicinity of a cervix surface such that engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion allows the inner side of the distal end portion of the body portion to rest on the cervix surface, by vaginal tissue exerting a pressure on the outer side of the body portion. With the inner side of the distal end portion resting on the cervix surface, an additional positioning point for the body cavity examination blade is established, apart from a first positioning point obtained by engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion. With the first and additional positioning point, the body portion of the body cavity examination blade has a stable position in the vaginal cavity.

[0059] In an embodiment of the method, wherein the carrier is a speculum having an upper blade member and a lower blade member being rotatably connected to each other, and the carrier support portion is a speculum support portion, and using the body cavity examination blade having the body portion provided with at least one integral flap enlarging the width of the body portion along a part of its length, the step of orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity comprises moving the body portion sideways from between the upper and lower blade members rotated away from each other to outside the upper and lower blade members, and positioning the upper and lower blade members such that the at least one flap is allowed to rest against a side of the upper blade member or lower blade member, by body cavity tissue exerting a pressure on the outer side of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade. At least one additional positioning point for the body cavity examination blade is established, apart from a first positioning point obtained by engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the speculum support portion. With the first and additional positioning point, the body portion of the body cavity examination blade has a stable position in the body cavity.

[0060] When the carrier is a speculum or part thereof, the carrier support portion is a speculum support portion

[0061] These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts.

[0062] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0063] Figure 1 depicts a top view of an embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention. Figure 2 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 1 , taken along the line ll-ll in Figure 1.

[0064] Figure 3 depicts a front view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 1 , in the direction of arrow III in Figure 1.

[0065] Figure 4 depicts a perspective view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 1 , in the direction of arrow IV in Figure 1.

[0066] Figure 5 depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention.

[0067] Figure 5A depicts a perspective bottom view of a further embodiment of the body cavity examination blade according to the invention, provided with an examination through hole having an inner cutting edge.

[0068] Figure 5B depicts a perspective bottom view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention, provided with an examination through hole with stepped dimensions and indications for measuring, gauging or classification of organs and other tissue structures.

[0069] Figure 5C depicts a perspective bottom view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention, provided with scales and indications for measuring tissue structures.

[0070] Figure 6 depicts a perspective view of a speculum, in a position taken when an upper blade member and a lower blade member of the speculum are inside a vaginal cavity, and in relation to a cervix.

[0071] Figure 7 depicts a perspective view of the speculum of Figure 6, in combination with the body cavity examination blade according to Figure 1 mounted on a speculum support portion of the speculum.

[0072] Figure 8 depicts a top view of an upper speculum blade member of the speculum of Figure 6, and a cross-sectional view of the body cavity examination blade according to Figure 1, taken along line VI I l-VI 11 in Figure 7.

[0073] Figure 9 depicts a detail IX of Figure 8 on an enlarged scale. Figure 10 depicts a perspective view of the speculum of Figure 6, in combination with a further embodiment of a manipulation portion of a body cavity examination blade.

[0074] Figure 11 depicts, on an enlarged scale, a top view of an upper speculum blade member of the speculum of Figure 10, and a cross-sectional view of the body cavity examination blade as shown in Figure 10, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XI-XI in Figure 10.

[0075] Figure 12 depicts a perspective view of still another embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention.

[0076] Figure 13 depicts a perspective view of the speculum of Figure 6, in combination with the body cavity examination blade according to Figure 12 mounted on a speculum support portion of the speculum.

[0077] Figure 14 depicts a top view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention, provided with a light member.

[0078] Figure 15 depicts a perspective bottom view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 14.

[0079] Figure 16 depicts a cross-sectional view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 14, taken along line XVI-XVI in Figure 14.

[0080] Figure 17 depicts a cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade provided with a light member.

[0081] Figure 18 depicts a top view of a still further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade according to the invention, provided with a smoke member.

[0082] Figure 19 depicts a perspective bottom view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 18.

[0083] Figure 20 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 18, taken along line XX-XX in Figure 18.

[0084] Figure 21 depicts a perspective view of a speculum according to Figure 6, in combination with yet another embodiment of body cavity examination blades according to the invention. Figure 22 depicts a cross-sectional view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 21 , on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXI l-XXII in Figure 21 , and a top view of an upper speculum blade member of the speculum of Figure 21.

[0085] Figure 23 depicts a perspective view of three body cavity examination blades as shown in Figures 21 and 22, mounted on a carrier support portion of a carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0086] Figure 24 depicts a side view of the carrier embodiment of Figure 23 on a reduced scale with the body cavity blades as shown in Figures 21 and 22 mounted on the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment.

[0087] Figure 25 depicts a rear view of the carrier embodiment of Figure 23 on a reduced scale with the body cavity blades as shown in Figures 21 and 22 mounted on the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment.

[0088] Figure 26 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade as shown in Figure 23, taken along line XXVI-XXVI in Figure 23, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 23.

[0089] Figure 27 depicts a perspective view of four further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0090] Figure 28 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 27, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXVI I l-XXVI 11 in Figure 27, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 27.

[0091] Figure 28A depicts a perspective view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade provided with a rotatable protrusion, and mounted on a carrier support portion of a carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0092] Figure 28B depicts a side view of the body cavity examination blade shown in Figure 28A.

[0093] Figure 28C depicts a top view of the body cavity examination blade shown in Figure 28A. Figure 28D depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 28A, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXVII ID-XXVIIID in Figure 28A, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 28A.

[0094] Figure 28E depicts a perspective view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade provided with a slidable protrusion, and mounted on a carrier support portion of a carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0095] Figure 28F depicts a side view of the body cavity examination blade shown in Figure 28E.

[0096] Figure 28G depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 28E, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXVIIIG-XXVIIIG in Figure 28E, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 28E.

[0097] Figure 29 depicts a perspective view of four further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0098] Figure 30 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 29, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXX-XXX in Figure 29, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 29.

[0099] Figure 30A depicts a detail of a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a body cavity examination blade being a variant of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 30, in combination with a variant of the carrier support portion of Figure 29.

[0100] Figure 30B depicts a detail of a cross-sectional side view of a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade being a further variant of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 30, in combination with a further variant of the carrier support portion of Figure 29.

[0101] Figure 31 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0102] Figure 32 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 31 , on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXXII-XXXII in Figure 31, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 31. Figure 33 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0103] Figure 34 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 33, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXXIV-XXXIV in Figure 33, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 33.

[0104] Figure 35 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0105] Figure 36 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 35, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXXVI-XXXVI in Figure 35, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 35.

[0106] Figure 37 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0107] Figure 38 depicts a rear view of the carrier embodiment of Figure 37 on a reduced scale having the three further embodiments of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 37 mounted on the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment.

[0108] Figure 39 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 37, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XXXIX-XXXIX in Figure 37, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 37.

[0109] Figure 40 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0110] Figure 41 depicts a rear view of the carrier embodiment of Figure 40 on a reduced scale having the three further embodiments of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 40 mounted on the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment. Figure 42 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 40, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XLII-XLI I in Figure 40, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 40.

[0111] Figure 43 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0112] Figure 44 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 43, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XLIV-XLIV in Figure 43, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 43.

[0113] Figure 45 depicts a perspective view of three further embodiments of a body cavity examination blade, mounted on a carrier support portion of a further carrier embodiment comprising one carrier blade member.

[0114] Figure 46 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the body cavity examination blade of Figure 45, on an enlarged scale, taken along line XLVI-XLVI in Figure 45, in combination with the carrier support portion of the carrier embodiment of Figure 45.

[0115] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0116] Figures 1 to 4 depict an embodiment of a body cavity examination blade 10 according to the present invention. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises an elongated blade-shaped body portion 12 to be inserted into a body cavity. The body portion 12 has an (imaginary) central longitudinal axis 14, a proximal end 16, an opposite distal end 18, a proximal end portion 17 adjacent to the proximal end 16, and a distal end portion 19 adjacent to the distal end 18.

[0117] The body portion 12 has an outer side (surface) 20 to be facing a body cavity wall, and an inner side (surface) 22 opposite to the outer side 20. A width of the body portion 12 increases from the proximal end portion 17 of the body portion 12 to the distal end portion 19 of the body portion 12.

[0118] Accordingly, the shape of the body portion 12 may be described as wedge-shaped and / or as resembling a shape of a shoehorn.

[0119] As shown in particular in Figures 2 and 3, the distal end portion 19 of the body portion 12 at its inner side 22 is shaped concave. The concave shape, as seen at the inner side 22, is provided both in a plane through the longitudinal axis 14 (see Figure 2) and in a plane at right angles thereto (see Figure 3), such as, in case of the body cavity being a vagina, to conform to the corresponding surface of a cervix 28, indicated by a dashed line. This will be explained in more detail below by reference to Figures 7 and 8.

[0120] The body cavity examination blade 10 further comprises a manipulation portion 24 connected, e.g. integrally connected, to the body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 of the body portion 12. The manipulation portion 24 has an outer side (surface) 26 adjoining the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The manipulation portion 24 is to be positioned outside the body cavity. An angle a between the outer side 20 of the proximal end region 17 and the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 may be between 10° and 80°.

[0121] The manipulation portion 24 on its outer side 26 is provided with a hook member 30. The hook member 30 comprises a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 towards the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending towards the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The second hook portion 34 extends towards the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. In other embodiments, there may be no gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12.

[0122] The body cavity examination blade 10 may be manufactured integrally from a plastic material. The material may be resilient. The hook member 30, being a part of the body cavity examination blade 10, may be resiliently bendable such that while bending the hook member 30 a free end of the second hook portion 34 may take different distances from the outer side 20 of the body portion 12.

[0123] The body cavity examination blade 10 may also be assembled or constructed from several individual parts. In particular, the hook member 30 may be manufactured as a separate part and be joined with the manipulation portion 24.

[0124] Referring to Figure 5, in an embodiment the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 may be provided with a viewing through hole 40 extending between the outer side 20 and the inner side 22 of the body portion 12. The hole 40 may in particular extend at least in the distal end region 19 of the body portion 12. Part of the contour of the hole 40 may be parallel to the outer contour of the body portion 12. The hole 40 allows a view on any body cavity tissue located behind the hole 40 from the inner side 22 of the body portion 12. The body portion 12 may have one or multiple viewing through holes 40 located at different positions, in a region extending from the proximal end portion 17 to the distal end portion 19 of the body portion 12.

[0125] Figure 5A depicts a body cavity examination blade 10, provided with a drop-shaped examination through hole 41 having an inner cutting edge 42, in particular but not limited to the narrow part 43 of the hole 41. If a body cavity contains an appropriate tissue structure which should be removed or treated, the body cavity examination blade 10 can be manipulated to catch and isolate the tissue structure in the hole 41. For a removal of the tissue structure, the body cavity examination blade 10 can be moved such that the inner cutting edge 42 cuts off part of the tissue structure. Alternatively, the hole 41 can be used to isolate a tissue structure connected to a body cavity wall from surrounding tissue and perform safe electrosurgery. In case the narrow part 43 is provided with the inner cutting edge 42, the body cavity examination blade 10, having the tissue structure extending in the hole 41 , may be moved into a direction of the manipulation portion 24 to trap and cut off a part of the tissue structure, for example a polypus. As indicated by dashed lines 41A, the body portion 12 may also be provided with an edge indentation to catch and isolate or manipulate a tissue structure. The edge indentation 41 A may be provided with an inner cutting edge, like the hole 41.

[0126] Figure 5B depicts a body cavity examination blade 10 provided with an examination through hole 44 with stepped dimensions and indications 45 “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” for measuring, gauging or classification of organs and other tissue structures. Tissue structures can be seen through the hole 44, or extend through the hole 44. Smaller tissue structures may fit into part “A” of the hole 44, whereas bigger tissue structures may fit into part “D” and not in any of parts “A”, “B” and “C” of the hole 44. As indicated by lines 44A, the hole 44 may take the form of an indentation or recess, e.g. for measuring, gauging or classification of a blood vessel. As indicated by line 44B, one or more edge indentations may be provided in the body portion 12 for manipulation, measuring, gauging or classification of tissue structures. For similar purposes, one or more protrusions may be provided on the body portion 12.

[0127] Figure 5C depicts a body cavity examination blade 10 provided with scales 46, 47 and indications “3” to “11” and “cm” for measuring tissue structures or dimensions.

[0128] It is noted that one or more of the provisions in the body cavity examination blade 10 and on the inner side 22 thereof as shown in Figures 5A, 5B and 5C can be present on or in one body cavity examination blade 10.

[0129] Different embodiments of the body cavity examination blade 10 may have different dimensions of portions thereof, to suit specific medical needs. For example, a length of the body portion 12 may differ among embodiments, and / or a width of the proximal end portion 17 or the distal end portion 19 may differ among embodiments.

[0130] Figure 6 depicts a perspective view of a speculum 50 known perse, for example the Orchid® Spec® speculum type marketed by Bridea Medical, in a position taken when an upper blade member 52 and a lower blade member 54 of the speculum 50 are inside a vaginal cavity, and in relation to a cervix 28. The upper blade member 52 and the lower blade member 54 are supported rotatably relative to each other around rotation axis 56. The speculum 50 further comprises a first handle 58 connected to the lower blade member 54, a speculum support portion 60 connected to the upper blade member 52 and provided with a second handle 62, and a locking mechanism 64 for locking the angular position of the first handle 58 and the second handle 62 relative to each other, and thus the angular position of the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54 relative to each other. The speculum support portion 60 comprises a speculum support edge 66 configured such that the hook member 30 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can be hooked on the speculum support edge 66. The end portions of the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54 can be moved away from each other sufficiently to allow the cervix 28 to be located between the end portions, wherein the end portions may or may not rest on the cervix.

[0131] Figure 7 depicts the speculum 50 of Figure 6, in combination with the body cavity examination blade 10 according to Figure 1 mounted on a speculum support portion 60 of the speculum 50. The speculum 50 is a carrier, and the speculum support portion 60 is a carrier support portion. The body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade extends, like the upper blade member 52 and the lower blade member 54, in the vaginal cavity, wherein the longitudinal sides of the body portion 12 are close to, and slightly laterally outwardly displaced relative to the corresponding longitudinal sides of the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54. The distal end portion 19 of the body portion 12 at its inner side 22 is shaped concave to conform to the corresponding surface of the cervix 28, and the distal end portion 19 rests on the corresponding surface of the cervix 28, urged to take this position by pressure exerted on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 by vaginal wall tissue. The length of the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 may be about the same as the lengths of the upper blade member 52 and the lower blade member 54, or may be larger, or may be smaller, depending on the requirements of the examination.

[0132] In Figure 8 it can be seen that the concave shape of the body portion 12 in the distal end portion 19 thereof, as seen in a plane through the longitudinal axis at right angles to the outer side 20 or inner side 22 of the body portion, provides an enlarged or wide space in front of the cervix 28, so that an examiner observing the cervix 28 has an excellent view of not only the front side of the cervix 28, but also of part of lateral sides of the cervix 28. This space also allows more possibilities for instrument manipulation, such as for safely manipulating LEEP electrodes, whilst at the same time providing additional distance to cavity walls.

[0133] The body cavity examination blade 10 is hooked on the speculum support edge 66 of the speculum support portion 60 by moving hook member 30 across speculum support edge 66, as shown in more detail in Figures 8 and 9. As shown in particular in Figure 9, the first hook portion 32 extends over the speculum support edge 66, while the second hook portion 34 extends around the speculum support edge 66. The second hook portion 34 prevents the body cavity examination blade 10 to move in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis 14. With the distal end portion 19 of the body portion 12 resting on the cervix 28, and the hook member 30 hooked on the edge 66, the body cavity examination blade 10 takes a stable position in the vaginal cavity.

[0134] It is noted here that the speculum 50 shown in Figures 6 to 9 may be used not only for examination of a vaginal cavity, but also for examination of other kinds of body cavities. The same goes for other carriers shown in the Figures and explained below.

[0135] Figures 10 and 11 depict a perspective view similar to the view of Figures 7 and 9. However, in Figure 10 the body cavity examination blade 10 has a smaller width of the body portion 12 than the body cavity examination blade 10 shown in Figure 7, and also the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10 of Figure 7 is shaped different from the manipulation portion 25 of the body cavity examination blade 10 of Figures 10 and 11. The manipulation portion 25 of the body cavity examination blade 10 shown in Figure 10 is ring-shaped, in particular adapted such that an examiner may insert one of his or her fingers into the ring for manipulation of the body cavity examination blade 10 mounted on the speculum support portion 60. The hook member 30 is connected, in this embodiment integrally formed, to the ring-shaped manipulation portion 25 at a side of the manipulation portion 25 substantially facing in the direction of the distal end portion 19 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0136] Figure 12 depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a body cavity examination blade 10 wherein the body portion 12 is provided with two integral flaps 70 on opposite sides of the body portion 12, enlarging the width of the body portion 12 along a part of its length. As a result, as shown in Figure 13, the flaps 70 may rest against corresponding sides of the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54, urged to take this position by pressure exerted on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 by vaginal wall tissue. The body cavity examination blade 10 provided with flaps 70 may be placed in the vaginal cavity by first moving the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54 away from each other far enough to allow the flaps 70 to pass the sides of the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54, then move the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54 towards each other to allow the flaps 70 to rest against the sides of the upper blade member 52 and / or lower blade member 54. The hook member 30 is hooked on the speculum support portion edge 66.

[0137] It is noted here that an alternative approach to maneuver the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 through the gap between the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54, is to partially rotate the body cavity examination blade 10 from a vertical orientation as seen in side view around the longitudinal axis 14 temporarily whilst between the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54, thereby reducing the height of the profile of the body portion 12 as seen in side view, and allowing it to pass through the gap between the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54. Once outside of the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54, the body cavity examination blade 10 can be rotated back to its original vertical orientation, increasing its profile height as seen in side view, to a height larger than the gap between the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54. This manner allows for the above mentioned step of moving the upper blade member 52 and lower blade member 54 back towards each other, to be skipped.

[0138] It is also noted here that instead of two or more flaps 70 on opposite sides of the body portion 12, also just one flap 70 on one side of the body portion can be provided, providing the same or similar function of contacting the corresponding side of the upper blade member 52 or lower blade member 54, as the case may be.

[0139] Figures 14, 15,16 and 17 depict a body cavity examination blade 10 provided with a light member. In Figures 14, 15 and 16, a light member 801 comprises a light inlet port 821, a light outlet port 841 , and a light guide extending between the light inlet port 821 and light outlet port 841 , in the manipulation portion 24 and the body portion 12, in particular along the central longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10. A suitable light source 861, such as an LED device, a fluorescence device, a luminescence device or a laser device, may be connectable or connected to the light inlet port 821. The light source 861 may be connected to a control unit 881, comprising a battery or power input connectable to a power source, and / or a switch to turn the light source 861 on and / or off or to dim the light source 861. The light outlet port 841 , being a light emitting end of the light guide, is provided on the body portion 12 at a distance from the distal end 18, and is directed away from the inner side 22 of the body portion 12. Accordingly, light produced by a light source, such as light source 861, and input at the light inlet port 821 , guided through the light guide, and emitted from the light outlet port 841 , is directed to the internal space of a body cavity when the body cavity examination blade 10 is arranged inside the body cavity, and may in particular be directed to the body cavity inner wall or an organ, such as the cervix 28 in case of a vaginal cavity. In Figure 17, a light member 811 comprises a light source 861 , such as an LED device, a fluorescence device, a luminescence device or a laser device, provided on the body portion 12 at, or at a distance from the distal end 18 thereof. The light source 861 may be electrically connected to a control unit 881 by wires 891 running along the body portion 12 to the manipulation portion 24, where the control unit 881 is located. The control unit 881 comprises a battery or power input connectable to a power source, and / or a switch to turn the light source 861 on and / or off or to dim the light source 861. The control unit 881 may also be provided near the location of the light source 861. So, advantageously the body cavity examination blade 10 is combined with a light member, obviating or supporting other provisions to provide light in the body cavity.

[0140] Figures 18, 19 and 20 depict a body cavity examination blade 10 provided with a duct 862. The duct 862 comprises one or more (in the Figures: three) first ports 882, a second port 922, and a channel 902 extending between the first port(s) 882 and the second port 922, in the manipulation portion 24 and the body portion 12, in particular along the central longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10. A removal device may be connected to the second port 922 to discharge a variety of gases including air, a surgical plume, smoke and / or other aerosolized particles and / or liquid and / or blood and / or bodily discharge, etc., through the channel 902. Alternatively, gas including air and / or liquid including water and / or disinfectant and / or medication, etc., may be introduced in a body cavity through the channel 902 by a supply device from the second port 922 to the first port(s) 882. The at least one first port 882 of the duct 862 is provided at the inner side 22 of the body portion 12. For example, a surgical plume produced in the body cavity during a medical treatment, such as a LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) treatment, may be removed from the body cavity through the first port(s) 882, the channel 902 and the second port 922 to the removal device. So, advantageously the body cavity examination blade 10 is combined with a duct 862, obviating other provisions to remove gas, surgical plume and / or liquid from the body cavity, or to supply gas and / or liquid to the body cavity.

[0141] Figure 21 depicts a perspective view of a speculum 50 according to Figure 6, in combination with yet another embodiment of body cavity examination blades 10. Figure 22 depicts a cross- sectional view of the body cavity examination blade 10 of Figure 21, and a top view of an upper speculum blade member 52 of the speculum 50 of Figure 6. As shown in particular in Figure 22, the body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 301 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending towards the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. Additionally, the hook member 301 has a notch portion 36 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The first hook portion 32 and notch portion 36 are configured to hook on the edge 66 of the speculum support portion 60 to prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the speculum support portion 60 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10, while the second hook portion 34 is configured to rest on a first speculum support portion surface at a first distance from the edge 66, the first speculum support portion surface facing generally in the same direction as the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. At the proximal end 16 of the body portion 12, on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12, a support shoulder 38 is provided, configured to rest on a second speculum support portion surface opposite to the first speculum support portion surface, and at a second distance from the edge 66 which is smaller than the first distance. The second hook portion 34 in combination with the first hook portion 32 and notch portion 36 provides a hook member 301 being a support arm whereby, in combination with the support shoulder 38, the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the hook member 301 and the support shoulder 38 taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. It is noted that there may be more than one notch portion 36 along the first hook portion 32 of the hook member 301, as indicated by 36A. Alternatively, the first hook portion 32 may be provided with one or more recesses 36B to accommodate the edge 66 of the speculum support portion 60. The one or more notch portions 36, 36A or the one or more recesses 36B allow the body cavity examination blade 10 to be arranged at different positions with respect to the speculum support portion 60, as seen in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0142] Figures 23-26 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 80 comprising a carrier support portion 60A. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 301, the hook member 301 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The hook member 301 has a notch portion 36 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the notch portion 36 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60A is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar 66 at an end of the carrier support portion 60A configured to be facing the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The collar has a radial end edge, and the hook member 301, in particular the notch portion 36 thereof, is configured to be hooked on the edge.

[0143] Figures 23 to 26 show three body cavity examination blades 10 as shown in Figures 21 and 22, in combination with a lower speculum blade member 54 mounted on the carrier support portion 60A. The carrier support portion 60A is connected to a handle 57, and is partly sleeve-shaped, including a gap 70 which may allow to easily add or remove body cavity examination blades 10, such as the one as shown, but also ones as shown in Figures 1 to 5, 12 and 21 and / or other instruments used in the body cavity. The gap 70 also allows for the removal of the carrier 80 from the cavity, whilst leaving another instruments, such as a catheter in place, as is common with the use of a so-called side opening (gap 70) carrier 80 in procedures requiring the gap 70. The carrier support portion 60A allows to mount one, two, three or even more body cavity examination blades 10, as required, wherein each body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position relative to the carrier support portion 60A. The hook engagement between the third hook portion 36 and the radial end edge 66 of the collar prevents the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the speculum support portion 60A in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0144] Figures 27 and 28 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 82 including a carrier support portion 60B. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60B. The carrier support portion 60B is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 82. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60B is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The hook member 302 of the body cavity examination blade 10, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked on the first end edge 84. Figure 27 shows four body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60B, but fewer and more and other body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted.

[0145] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at its outer side 20 opposite the hook member 302 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60B opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the hook member 302. The hook member 302 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the hook member 302 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60B while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between the second hook portion 34 and the first end edge 84 and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60B in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0146] Figures 28A and 28D depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 82 including a carrier support portion 60B. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60B. The carrier support portion 60B is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 82. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a protrusion in the form of a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60B is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The hook member 302 of the body cavity examination blade 10, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked on the first end edge 84. Figure 28A shows one body cavity examination blade 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60B, but more or other body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted.

[0147] As shown in more detail in Figures 28B, 28C and 28D, the hook member 302 is mounted moveably, in particular rotatably on the manipulation portion 24 around an axis 310, and connected to handle portion 312 and spring portion 314, for moving the hook member 302 towards and / or away from the outer side 20 of the body portion. The axis 310 is mounted between supports 316 mounted on the manipulation portion 24. The spring portion 314, when it is in contact with the manipulation portion 24, may force the hook member 302 to rotate towards the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. On the other hand, moving the handle portion 312 towards the manipulation portion may rotate the hook member 302 away from the outer side 20 of the body portion 12, while tensioning the spring portion 314. The latter manipulation may be used to mount the body cavity examination blade 10 on the carrier support portion 60B, moving the second hook portion 34 away from the outer side 20 of the body portion and the outer surface of the carrier support portion 60B. After the body cavity examination blade 10 has been brought into position on the carrier support portion 60B, the handle portion 312 may be released, whereby the second hook portion 34 hooks on the first end edge 84 of the carrier support portion 60B and firmly grips the carrier support portion 60B, aided by the spring force exerted by spring portion 314 on the hook member 302.

[0148] Accordingly, the protrusion or hook member 302 is mounted rotatably on the manipulation portion 24, wherein the protrusion is connected to a handle portion 312 and spring portion 314, and wherein the spring portion 314 is configured to force the protrusion away from the manipulation portion 24 in predetermined angular positions of the protrusion.

[0149] It is noted that the same or similar rotatable mounting of the protrusion or hook member 302 may be applied in the body cavity examination blades shown in Figures 1, 22, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36.

[0150] Figures 28E and 28G depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 82 including a carrier support portion 60B. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60B. The carrier support portion 60B is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 82. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a protrusion in the form of a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60B is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The hook member 302 of the body cavity examination blade 10, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked on the first end edge 84. Figure 28E shows one body cavity examination blade 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60B, but more or other body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted.

[0151] As shown in more detail in Figures 28E, 28F and 28G, the hook member 302 is mounted moveably, in particular slidably, on the manipulation portion 24 for moving the hook member 302 towards and / or away from the outer side 20 of the body portion. The hook member 302 is configured to slide along the manipulation portion 24. A holding arm 330 is connected to the hook member 302, wherein the holding arm 330 is configured to engage a series of serrations 332. The manipulation portion 24 is provided with a hole 334 through which a support portion 336 connected to the hook member 302 extends to the side of the manipulation portion 24 opposite to the side where the hook member 302 extends. The support portion 336 is provided with a handle portion 338. On either side of the manipulation portion 24, the support portion 336 is provided with a locking notch 340, 342.

[0152] During the mounting of the body cavity examination blade 10 on the carrier support portion 60B, the hook member 302 may be slid towards the body portion 12, whereby the holding arm 330 engages the series of serrations 332. This engagement allows the hook member 302 to slide further in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12, but may block a sliding movement in the opposite direction. The handle portion 338 allows to effect the sliding movement until the body cavity examination blade 10 has been brought into position on the carrier support portion 60B, whereby the second hook portion 34 hooks on the first end edge 84 of the carrier support portion 60B and firmly grips the carrier support portion 60B.

[0153] It is noted that the same or similar slidable mounting of the protrusion or hook member 302 may be applied in the body cavity examination blades shown in Figures 1 , 22, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36.

[0154] Figures 29 and 30 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 88 including a carrier support portion 60C. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60C. The carrier support portion 60C is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 88. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60C is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The carrier support portion 60C on its outer surface is provided with at least one recess 90 near the first end edge 84. The hook member 302, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked in the at least one recess 90. The recess 90 is a hole configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion 34. In the embodiment of Figures 29 and 30, the carrier support portion 60C comprises nine through holes, each one of which is configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion 34 of a hook portion 302 of a body cavity examination blade 10.

[0155] Figure 29 shows four body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60C, but fewer and more (up to nine) body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted, depending on the number of recesses 90, in different tangential positions. It is noted that further recesses may be provided in the carrier support portion 60C, in particular between a recess 90 and the second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60C. Such further recesses allow the second hook portion 34 of the body cavity examination blade 10 to be positioned further away from the first end edge 84 than the position shown in Figure 30.

[0156] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at the outer side 20 opposite the hook member 302 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60C opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the hook member 302. The hook member 302 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the hook member 302 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60C while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between the second hook portion 34 and the first end edge 84 and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60C in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0157] Figure 30A illustrates an embodiment of a body cavity examination blade 10 being a variant of the body cavity examination blade 10 of Figure 30, in combination with a variant of the carrier support portion 60C of Figure 29. In Figure 30A, several (tangential) rows of recesses 90 or holes are provided in a carrier support portion 60CA. Protrusion 3021 carries a notch 3022 which is configured to be received in a recess 90 from the outside of the carrier support portion 60CA, i.e. in any one of the three recesses 90 shown in cross-section. Accordingly, the body cavity examination blade may be positioned in three different positions relative to the carrier support portion 60CA, depending on a user’s need. In any one of these positions, the support shoulder 38 remains available to take up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. Also, in any of these positions, the body cavity examination blade 10 is held or locked by the engagement of the notch 3022 in the recess 90 against a movement in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 with respect to the carrier support portion 60CA.

[0158] Figure 30B illustrates a further embodiment of a body cavity examination blade 10 being a further variant of the body cavity examination blade 10 of Figure 30, in combination with a further variant of the carrier support portion 60C of Figure 29. In Figure 30B, a row of recesses 90 is provided near the second end edge 86 of a carrier support portion 60CB. Shoulder 38 carries a notch 3023 which is configured to be received in recess 90, from the inside of the carrier support portion 60CB. Protrusion 3024 is provided with a foot 3025 configured to rest on the carrier support portion 60CB. The body cavity examination blade 10 is held or locked by the engagement of the notch 3023 in the recess 90 against a movement in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 with respect to the carrier support portion 60CB.

[0159] Figures 31 and 32 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 92 including a carrier support portion 60D. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60D. The carrier support portion 60D is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 92. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60D is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The carrier support portion 60D on its outer surface is provided with a recess 94 near the first end edge 84. The recess 94 is a tangentially extending slot configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion 34. Thus, the hook member 302, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked in the recess 94.

[0160] Figure 31 shows three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60D, but fewer and more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the recess 94, in different tangential positions.

[0161] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at its outer side 20 opposite the hook member 302 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60D opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the hook member 302. The hook member 302 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the hook member 302 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60D while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between the second hook portion 34 and the recess 94 and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60D in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10. Figures 33 and 34 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 96 including a carrier support portion 60E. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60E. The carrier support portion 60E is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 96. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60E is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The carrier support portion 60E on its outer surface is provided with a recess 98 near the first end edge 84. The recess 98 is a tangentially extending slot at the first end edge 84 configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion 34. Thus, the hook member 302, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked in the at least one recess 98.

[0162] Figure 33 shows three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60E, but fewer and more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the recess 98, in different tangential positions.

[0163] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at the outer side 20 opposite the hook member 302 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60E opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the hook member 302. The hook member 302 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the hook member 302 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60E while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between the second hook portion 34 and the recess 98 and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60E in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0164] Figures 35 and 36 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 100 including a carrier support portion 60F. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60F. The carrier support portion 60F is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 100. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a hook member 302 having a first hook portion 32 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12, and a second hook portion 34 adjoining the first hook portion 32 and extending in the direction of the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 while leaving a gap between the second hook portion 34 and the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60F is partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises a first end edge 84 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The carrier support portion 60F on its outer surface is provided with at least one tangentially extending ridge 102 at or near the first end edge 84. The hook member 302, in particular the second hook portion 34 thereof, is configured to be hooked on the at least one ridge 102.

[0165] Figure 35 shows three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60F, but fewer and more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the ridge 102, in different tangential positions.

[0166] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at the outer side 20 opposite the hook member 302 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60F opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the hook member 302. The hook member 302 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the hook member 302 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60F while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between the second hook portion 34 and the ridge 102 and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60F in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10.

[0167] Figures 37, 38 and 39 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 104 including a carrier support portion 60G. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60G. The carrier support portion 60G is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 104. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a pin member 303 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12. The pin member 303 is provided with a notch 110 at its side facing away from the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60G is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, including a gap 70, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar 106 near an end of the carrier support portion 60G configured to be facing the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The collar 106 is provided with at least one hole 108 configured to accommodate the pin member 303, wherein the notch 110 is configured to be hooked on the collar 106 on the side of the collar 106 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24.

[0168] Figures 37 and 38 show three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60G, but fewer or more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the collar 106, depending on the number of holes 108 in the collar 106 and the width of each manipulation portion 24, in different tangential positions.

[0169] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at the outer side 20 opposite the pin member 303 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60G opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the pin member 303. The pin member 303 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the pin member 303 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60G while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between pin member 303 and the carrier support portion 60G, including the engagement between the notch 110 and the collar 106 as shown in Figure 39, and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60G in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10, whether a force is exerted substantially transversely on the inner side 22 or on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12.

[0170] Figures 40, 41 and 42, like Figures 37, 38 and 39, depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 104 including a carrier support portion 60G. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60G. The carrier support portion 60G is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 104. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a pin member 304 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12. The pin member 304 has an end facing away from the manipulation portion 24, wherein the end is provided with a backfolded resilient snap-lock arm 305, carrying a notch 306 at its free end. The carrier support portion 60G is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, including a gap 70, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar 106 at an end of the carrier support portion 60G configured to be facing the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. The collar 106 is provided with at least one hole 108 configured to accommodate the pin member 304, wherein the arm 305 with the notch 306 is configured to be hooked on the collar 106 on the side of the collar 106 configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion 24.

[0171] Figures 40 and 41 show three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60G, but fewer or more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the collar 106, depending on the number of holes 108 in the collar 106 and the width of each manipulation portion 24, in different tangential positions.

[0172] The body portion 12 at the proximal end 16 at the outer side 20 opposite the pin member 304 is provided with a support shoulder 38. A second end edge 86 of the carrier support portion 60G opposite the first end edge 84 is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder 38 and the pin member 304. The pin member 304 is a support arm whereby the body portion 12 of the body cavity examination blade 10 can take a stable position in the body cavity, the pin member 304 and the support shoulder 38 resting on the carrier support portion 60G while taking up forces exerted by body cavity wall tissue exerting pressure on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12. The engagement between pin member 304 and the carrier support portion 60G, including the engagement between the arm 305 and notch 306 and the collar 106 as shown in Figure 42, and the engagement of the body cavity examination blade 10 with the second end edge 86 prevent the body cavity examination blade 10 to move relative to the carrier support portion 60G in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 of the body cavity examination blade 10, whether a force is exerted substantially transversely on the inner side 22 or on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12.

[0173] Figures 43 and 44 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 112 including a carrier support portion 60H. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60H. The carrier support portion 60H is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 112. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a pin member 307 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60H is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises radially outwardly extending collar parts 116 on the carrier support portion 60H configured to be facing the manipulation portion 24 of the body cavity examination blade 10. Each collar part 116 is provided with a hole 118 configured to accommodate a pin member 307, wherein an engagement between the pin member 307 and the hole 118 may be frictional to avoid the body cavity examination blade 10 moving relative to the carrier support portion 60H in a direction of the longitudinal axis 14. The carrier support portion 60H is provided with axial grooves 114 which axially align the corresponding pin members 307, in particular when body cavity wall tissue exerts a force on the outer side 20 of the body portion 12.

[0174] Figure 43 shows three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60H, but fewer or more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the carrier support portion 60H, depending on the number of collar parts 116.

[0175] Figures 45 and 46 depict a combination of a body cavity examination blade 10 and a carrier 120 including a carrier support portion 60K. A lower carrier blade member 54 is connected to the carrier support portion 60K. The carrier support portion 60K is connected to a handle 57 for manipulation of the carrier 120. The body cavity examination blade 10 comprises a pin member 308 extending from the outer side 26 of the manipulation portion 24 substantially parallel to the outer side 20 of the body portion 12 in the direction of the distal end 18 of the body portion 12. The carrier support portion 60K is at least partially substantially sleeve-shaped, and comprises axially extending tubular support parts 122. Each support part 122 comprises a duct 124 configured to accommodate a pin member 308, wherein an engagement between the pin member 308 and the duct 124 may be frictional to avoid the body cavity examination blade 10 moving relative to the carrier support portion 60K in a direction of the longitudinal axis 14.

[0176] Figure 45 shows three body cavity examination blades 10 mounted on the carrier support portion 60K, but fewer or more body cavity examination blades 10 can be mounted along the carrier support portion 60K, depending on the number of support parts 122 (Figure 45 showing five support parts 122) on the carrier support portion 60K, in different tangential positions.

[0177] The different embodiments of body cavity examination blades 10 having a hook member or a pin member shown in the different Figures provide a limited orientational freedom of movement of the body cavity examination blade 10 relative to a carrier support portion in other directions than the longitudinal axis of the body cavity examination blade, in particular at right angles thereto, tilting around an area of engagement between the body cavity examination blade 10 and the carrier support portion. However, this is not possible in the embodiment of the combination of body cavity examination blade 10 and carrier support portion 60K as shown in Figures 45 and 46, having a fixed orientation of the body cavity examination blade 10 relative to the carrier support portion 60K. If, however, the duct 124 and / or the pin member 308 are at least partly conical, or otherwise deviating from one another in cross-section, this creates more room to manoeuvre for the pin member 308 in the duct 124. Accordingly, the above-mentioned limited orientational freedom of movement of the body cavity examination blade 10 relative to a carrier support portion 60K in other directions than the longitudinal axis of the body cavity examination blade 10, in particular at right angles thereto, tilting around an area of engagement between the body cavity examination blade 10 and the carrier support portion is maintained.

[0178] In the different Figures, areas of engagement 400 are indicated where two surfaces are opposite to each other. That is, a protrusion surface may be opposite to a carrier support portion surface, in particular an outside surface of the carrier support portion. Or, an outer side (surface) of a body portion, including a shoulder thereon, may be opposite to a carrier support portion surface, in particular an inside surface of the carrier support portion. In the areas of engagement 400, each one of the opposite surfaces may have an engagement member to hold or lock the body cavity examination blade with respect to the carrier support portion, in particular prevent a movement of the body cavity examination blade in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the carrier support portion. Engagement members comprise interengaging notches (including ridges and edges) and recesses (including grooves and holes and slots). Areas of engagement 400 may be provided in addition to other holding or locking means.

[0179] In the previously discussed embodiments, all respective carrier / speculum support portions may or may not include a gap 70 without affecting the engagement of the respective body cavity examination blade on the carrier / speculum support portion. As explained above, a body cavity examination blade comprises an elongated blade-shaped body portion configured to be inserted into a human or animal body cavity, and a connected manipulation portion. The manipulation portion has an outer side adjoining an outer side of the body portion configured to be facing a body cavity wall, and on its outer side is provided with an elongate protrusion. At least part of the protrusion extends from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion. The protrusion is a hook member or a pin member. The body cavity examination blade is to be combined with a carrier, such as a speculum or part thereof. The carrier comprises a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade to prevent movement of the body cavity examination blade relative to the carrier support portion in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the body cavity examination blade.

[0180] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in an appropriately detailed structure. The terms "a" / "an", as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms including and / or having, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e. , open language, not excluding other elements or steps). Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention.

[0181] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A body cavity examination blade for use in examining a body cavity of a human or animal, the body cavity examination blade comprising: an elongated blade-shaped body portion configured to be inserted into the body cavity, the body portion having a central longitudinal axis, a proximal end, an opposite distal end, an outer side configured to be facing a body cavity wall, and an inner side opposite to the outer side; and a manipulation portion connected to the body portion at the proximal end of the body portion, the manipulation portion having an outer side adjoining the outer side of the body portion, wherein the manipulation portion is configured to be positioned outside the body cavity, wherein the manipulation portion on its outer side is provided with an elongate protrusion, at least part of the protrusion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion.

2. The body cavity examination blade according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion is a hook member, the hook member having a first hook portion extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion, and a second hook portion adjoining the first hook portion and extending in the direction of the outer side of the body portion.

3. The body cavity examination blade according to claim 2, wherein the second hook portion extends in the direction of the outer side of the body portion while leaving a gap between the second hook portion and the outer side of the body portion.

4. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the body portion is provided with a notch or recess at the outer side of the body portion near or opposite to the protrusion.

5. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the protrusion is provided with a notch or recess at its side facing the outer side of the body portion, and / or at its side facing away from the outer side of the body portion.

6. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of claims 1, 4 and 5, wherein the protrusion is a pin member, the pin member extending from the outer side of the manipulation portion substantially parallel to the outer side of the body portion in the direction of the distal end of the body portion.

7. The body cavity examination blade according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion has an end facing away from the manipulation portion, and wherein the end is provided with a backfolded resilient snap-lock arm.

8. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion is provided with a support shoulder near the proximal end at the outer side opposite the protrusion.

9. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion is provided with at least one integral flap enlarging the width of the body portion along a part of its length.

10. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the width of the body portion increases from a proximal end portion adjacent to the proximal end of the body portion to a distal end portion adjacent to the distal end of the body portion.

11. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion is provided with at least one viewing through hole extending between the outer side and the inner side of the body portion.

12. The body cavity examination blade according to claim 11 , wherein part of the contour of the viewing through hole is parallel to the outer contour of the body portion.

13. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion is provided with at least one of a marking, examination through hole, edge indentation and body portion protrusion for manipulating, isolating, measuring, gauging or classifying of tissue structures, in particular wherein the examination through hole or indentation is provided with an inner cutting edge.

14. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusion is mounted moveably on the manipulation portion for moving the protrusion towards and / or away from the outer side of the body portion.

15. The body cavity examination blade according to claim 14, wherein the protrusion is mounted rotatably on the manipulation portion, and wherein the protrusion is connected to aspring portion configured to exert a force on the protrusion away from the manipulation portion in predetermined angular positions of the protrusion.

16. The body cavity examination blade according to claim 14, wherein the protrusion is mounted slidably on the manipulation portion, for sliding the protrusion along the manipulation portion.

17. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims configured for use in examining a body cavity and anatomy or organs therein, in particular the vagina and the cervix, wherein the body portion has a distal end portion adjacent to the distal end, and wherein the distal end portion at its inner side is shaped concave to conform to a corresponding surface of an organ to be engaged by the distal end portion, in particular the cervix.

18. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion at its inner side, as seen along the longitudinal axis, is shaped concave.

19. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, the body portion comprising a light member configured to emit light at the inner side of the body portion.

20. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a duct extending in the body portion, wherein at least one open end of the duct is provided at the inner side of the body portion.

21. The body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body cavity examination blade is made of, or covered by an electrically insulating material.

22. The body cavity examination blade of any one of the preceding claims, configured for examination of the vagina and the cervix.

23. A combination of the body cavity examination blade according to any one of the preceding claims and a carrier, in particular a speculum or part thereof, the carrier comprising a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade and configured to prevent movement of the body cavity examination bladerelative to the carrier support portion in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion of the body cavity examination blade.

24. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 2, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar near an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar having a radial end edge, and wherein the hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked on the radial end edge.

25. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 2, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises a first end edge configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, and wherein the hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked on the first end edge.

26. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 2, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, wherein the carrier support portion on its outer surface is provided with at least one recess, and wherein the hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked in the at least one recess.

27. The combination according to claim 26, wherein the recess is a hole configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion.

28. The combination according to claim 26, wherein the recess is a tangentially extending slot configured to receive at least part of the second hook portion.

29. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 2, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, wherein the carrier support portion on its outer surface is provided with at least one tangentially extending ridge, and wherein the hook member, in particular the second hook portion thereof, is configured to be hooked on the at least one ridge.

30. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 6, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar near an end of the carrier supportportion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar being provided with at least one hole configured to accommodate the pin member.

31. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 7, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises a radially outwardly extending collar near an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar being provided with at least one hole configured to accommodate the pin member, wherein the backfolded resilient snap-lock arm is configured to be hooked on the collar on the side of the collar configured to be facing away from the manipulation portion.

32. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 6, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises at least one radially outwardly extending collar portion near an end of the carrier support portion configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, the collar portion being provided with at least one hole configured to accommodate the pin member.

33. The combination according to claim 30 or 32, wherein the pin member is configured to be held in the hole by friction.

34. The combination according to claim 23, with the body cavity examination blade according to claim 6, wherein the carrier support portion is at least partially substantially sleeveshaped, and comprises at least one axially extending duct, wherein the duct is configured to accommodate the pin member.

35. The combination according to claim 34, wherein the pin member is configured to be held in the duct by friction.

36. The combination according to any one of claims 23 to 35, wherein the body portion at the proximal end at the outer side opposite the protrusion is provided with a support shoulder, wherein the carrier support portion comprises an end edge configured to be facing the manipulation portion of the body cavity examination blade, and wherein the end edge is configured to be accommodated between the support shoulder and the protrusion.

37. The combination according to any one of claims 23 to 36, wherein the body portion is provided with a notch or recess at the outer side of the body portion near or opposite to the protrusion, and wherein the carrier support portion at its side facing the outer side of the bodyportion is provided with a corresponding recess or notch configured to provide a holding or locking engagement between the body portion and the carrier support portion, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

38. The combination according to any one of claims 23 to 37, wherein the protrusion is provided with a notch or recess at its side facing the carrier support portion, and wherein the carrier support portion at its side facing the protrusion is provided with a corresponding recess or notch configured to provide a locking engagement between the protrusion and the carrier support portion, as seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

39. A method of positioning the body cavity examination blade according to any of claims 1 to 22 into a body cavity, the method comprising: providing a carrier comprising a carrier support portion configured to be engaged by the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade; orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity; and engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion.

40. The method of claim 39, using the body cavity examination blade according to claim 17, wherein the step of orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity comprises bringing the inner side of the distal end portion of the body portion in the vicinity of a cervix surface such that engaging the protrusion of the body cavity examination blade on the carrier support portion allows the inner side of the distal end portion of the body portion to rest on the cervix surface.

41. The method of claim 39, wherein the carrier is a speculum having an upper blade member and a lower blade member being rotatably or slidably connected to each other, and a speculum support portion, and using the body cavity examination blade according to claim 9, wherein the step of orienting the body portion of the body cavity examination blade in the body cavity comprises moving the body portion sideways from between the upper and lower blade members rotated or slid away from each other to outside the upper and lower blade members, and positioning the upper and lower blade members of the speculum such that the at least one flap is allowed to rest against a side of the upper blade member or lower blade member.

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