U.S. patent application number 17/598358 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-26 for endoscopic devices and related methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is CooperSurgical, Inc.. Invention is credited to Richard I. Farrington, Catherine M. Herriges, Xiao Wu.
Application Number | 20220160218 17/598358 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006192067 |
Filed Date | 2022-05-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220160218 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Herriges; Catherine M. ; et
al. |
May 26, 2022 |
ENDOSCOPIC DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS
Abstract
Endoscopic devices are disclosed for viewing and/or performing a
surgery on a patient's organ, such as a uterus. In an embodiment,
the endoscopic device includes a housing, a cannula, an imaging
system, and a flexible printed circuit (FPC). The cannula is
configured for insertion through a cervix into a uterus. The
cannula has a lumen that extends from a proximal end of the cannula
to a distal end of the cannula. The proximal end of the cannula is
secured within the housing. The imaging system is located at a
distal end of the cannula and includes a camera and one or more
light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The FPC extends within the lumen of
the cannula and electrically connects the camera and the LEDs to
electrical components located in the housing. The lumen is
configured to provide a passage for a working tool.
Inventors: |
Herriges; Catherine M.;
(Shelton, CT) ; Wu; Xiao; (Hamden, CT) ;
Farrington; Richard I.; (Waterbury, CT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CooperSurgical, Inc. |
Trumbull |
CT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006192067 |
Appl. No.: |
17/598358 |
Filed: |
March 5, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
March 5, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2020/021133 |
371 Date: |
September 27, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62825962 |
Mar 29, 2019 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 1/018 20130101;
A61B 1/05 20130101; A61B 1/00114 20130101; A61B 1/0676 20130101;
A61B 1/0684 20130101; A61B 2562/166 20130101; A61B 1/00052
20130101; A61B 1/00087 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 1/05 20060101
A61B001/05; A61B 1/018 20060101 A61B001/018; A61B 1/06 20060101
A61B001/06; A61B 1/00 20060101 A61B001/00 |
Claims
1. An endoscopic device, comprising: a housing; a cannula
configured to be inserted through a cervix into a uterus, the
cannula having a lumen that extends from a proximal end of the
cannula to a distal end of the cannula, the proximal end of the
cannula being secured within the housing; an imaging system
arranged at the distal end of the cannula, the imaging system
comprising: a camera, and one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
configured to provide light for the camera to acquire images of the
uterus; and a flexible printed circuit (FPC) that extends within
the lumen of the cannula and electrically connects the camera and
the LEDs to electrical components located in the housing, wherein
the lumen is configured to provide a passage for a working
tool.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the cannula defines a proximal
opening and a distal opening, the proximal and the distal openings
being configured to allow a working instrument to enter the lumen
via the proximal opening and exit the lumen via the distal
opening.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the electrical components in the
housing includes at least one of a printed circuit board (PCB), a
display, a display cable, and an electrical connection port.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the FPC is shaped to conform with
an inner surface of the lumen.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the FPC is positioned within an
upper third portion of the lumen.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the working tool has a size of 5
French or smaller.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the device further comprising a
tip element that holds the camera and the one or more LEDs at the
distal end of the cannula, the tip element being configured to:
allow a sensor of the camera to sense reflected LED lights, and
block other light from entering the sensor of the camera.
8. The device of claim 7, wherein the tip element includes a
partitioning wall that separates the camera from the one or more
LEDs.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein the partitioning wall extends
from a lens of the camera to a proximal end of the camera where the
camera connects to the FPC.
10. The device of claim 7, wherein the tip element has a convex
shape projecting outward from the distal end of the cannula.
11. The device of claim 7, wherein the tip element forms at least a
portion of a tool channel configured to guide the working tool to
exit the endoscopic device.
12. The device of claim 11, wherein the tool channel has a curved
inner surface that projects outward towards the camera.
13. The device of claim 1 further comprising: a tip element that
holds the camera and the one or more LEDs at the distal end of the
cannula; and a coupler located between the tip element and a shaft
that forms the lumen, the coupler having a coupler notch that fits
into a notch of a distal tip of the shaft to prevent the coupler
from rotating relative to the distal tip.
14. The device of claim 13, wherein the coupler has a thread formed
by a bulge in an inner surface of the coupler, the thread being
arranged at about a location where the coupler meets the distal tip
of the shaft.
15. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a tip element that
holds the camera at the distal end of the cannula, the tip element
being in contact with the FPC through a ramp-shaped element
configured to protect electrical contacts of the camera to the FPC
from potential impacts caused by the working tool passing through
the cannula towards the distal end of the cannula.
16. The device of claim 15, wherein the ramp-shaped element
comprises an adhesive material that secures the ramp-shaped element
to the FPC.
17. The device of claim 16, wherein the ramp-shaped element is
cured by UV light.
18. The device of claim 15 wherein the ramp-shaped element
comprises a molded element that is positioned between the tip
element and a distal end of a shaft of the cannula, wherein the
shaft defines the lumen of the cannula.
19. The device of claim 18, further comprising a coupler element
located between the distal end of the shaft and the tip element,
the coupler element extending along the FPC and surrounding a
distal portion of the FPC and the molded element.
20. The device of claim 19, wherein the molded element has an outer
surface that includes one or more groves that receive one or more
ribs of an inner surface of the coupler element.
21. The device of claim 19, wherein the coupler has an inner
surface that includes one or more ribs disposed in one or more
groves of an outer surface of the molded element.
22. The device of claim 19, wherein the molded element has an inner
surface that drafts down in diameter as the molded element extends
towards the tip element.
23. The device of claim 19, wherein the coupler element has an
inner surface that drafts down in diameter as the coupler extends
towards the tip element.
24. The device of claim 1, wherein the cannula is a double-lumen
cannula comprising a first lumen and a second lumen, both the first
and the second lumen extending along the cannula and being
separated by a wall.
25. The device of claim 24, wherein the FPC passes through the
first lumen and the working tool passes through the second lumen.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of prior U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/825,962, filed on Mar. 29, 2019,
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates to endoscopic devices and related
methods.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A hysteroscope is an endoscope that is designed for
examining a patient's uterus (e.g., a uterine cavity). A
hysteroscope typically includes a proximal portion that remains
external to the patient's body during use and a distal portion that
is inserted into the patient's uterus. The distal portion may
include a tip that is sized to be inserted through the cervix and
into the uterus to view the uterus, while the proximal portion
provides features for manipulating the distal portion. Images
captured at the tip of the distal portion can be viewed by a
physician to examine the uterine cavity. Once examination has
concluded, the distal portion of the hysteroscope is withdrawn from
the uterus through the patient's cervix.
SUMMARY
[0004] This disclosure relates to endoscopic devices and related
methods. Such endoscopic devices can be used for viewing and/or
performing a surgery on a patient's uterus.
[0005] In one aspect, an endoscopic device includes a housing, a
cannula configured for insertion through a cervix into a uterus,
the cannula having a lumen that extends from a proximal end of the
cannula to a distal end of the cannula, the proximal end of the
cannula being secured within the housing, an imaging system located
at a distal end of the cannula, and a flexible printed circuit
(FPC) that extends within the lumen of the cannula and electrically
connects the camera and the LEDs to electrical components located
in the housing. The imaging system includes a camera, and one or
more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to provide light for
the camera to acquire images of the uterus. The lumen is configured
to provide a passage for a working tool.
[0006] Embodiments may include one or more of the following
features.
[0007] In some embodiments, the cannula defines a proximal opening
and a distal opening, the proximal and the distal openings being
configured to allow a working instrument to enter the lumen via the
proximal opening and exit the lumen via the distal opening.
[0008] In certain embodiments, the electrical components in the
housing includes at least one of a printed circuit board (PCB), a
display, a display cable, and an electrical connection port.
[0009] In some embodiments, the FPC is shaped to conform with the
inner surface of the lumen. In some embodiments, the FPC is
positioned within an upper third portion of the lumen.
[0010] In certain embodiments, the lumen is configured to receive a
working tool that has a size of 5 French or smaller.
[0011] In some embodiments, the device further includes a tip
element that holds the camera and the one or more LEDs at the
distal end of the cannula, the tip element being configured to
block light from entering a sensor of the camera.
[0012] In some examples, the tip element is configured so that the
sensor senses substantially only reflected LED lights. The tip
element can include a partitioning wall that separates the camera
from the one or more LEDs. In some examples, the partitioning wall
extends from a lens of the camera to a proximal end of the camera
where the camera connects to the flex circuit.
[0013] The tip element can have a convex shape projecting outward
from the distal end of the cannula. The tip element can form at
least a portion of a tool channel configured to guide the working
tool to exit the endoscopic device. The tool channel can have a
curved inner surface that projects outward towards the camera.
[0014] In some embodiments, the device further includes a tip
element that holds the camera and the one or more LEDs at the
distal end of the cannula; and a coupler located between the tip
element and a shaft that forms the lumen, the coupler having a
notch that fits into a notch of a distal tip of the shaft to
prevent the coupler from rotating relative to the distal tip. In
some examples, the coupler has a thread formed by a bulge in the
inner surface of the coupler, the thread being located at about a
location where the coupler meets the distal tip of the shaft.
[0015] In some embodiments, the device further includes a tip
element that holds the camera at the distal end of the cannula, the
tip element being in contact with the FPC through a ramp-shaped
element configured to protect electrical contacts of the camera to
the FPC from potential impacts caused by a working tool passing
through cannula towards the distal end of the cannula.
[0016] In some examples, the ramp-shaped element includes an
adhesive material that secures the ramp-shaped element to the FPC.
The ramp-shaped element can be cured by UV light to form a hard
element.
[0017] In some embodiments, the ramp-shaped element includes a
molded element that is positioned between the tip element and a
distal end of a shaft of the cannula, wherein the shaft defines the
lumen of the cannula. The device can further include a coupler
element located between the distal end of the shaft and the tip
element, the coupler element extending along the FPC and
surrounding a distal portion of the FPC and the molded element.
[0018] In certain embodiments, the molded element has an outer
surface that includes one or more groves that receive one or more
ribs of an inner surface of the coupler. The coupler can have an
inner surface that includes one or more ribs disposed in one or
more groves of an outer surface of the molded element. In certain
embodiments, the molded element has an inner surface that drafts
down in diameter as the molded element extends towards the tip
element. The coupler can have an inner surface that drafts down in
diameter as the coupler extends towards the tip element.
[0019] In certain embodiments, the cannula is a double-lumen
cannula comprising a first lumen and a second lumen, both the first
and the second lumen extending along the cannula and being
separated by a wall. In some examples, the FPC passes through the
first lumen and the working tool passes through the second
lumen.
[0020] Particular embodiments of the subject matter described in
this specification can be implemented so as to realize one or more
of the following advantages. Reducing the size of an endoscopic
device plays a significant role in reducing stress on the patients
during an examination. Certain embodiments of the present
disclosure provide a single lumen canula that provides a passage
for fluids (e.g., saline), a working tool, and electronic cables.
Flexible printed circuits (FPC) used in the present disclosure
provide reliable electrical communications between the distal tip
and the proximal region of the endoscopic device. The FPC is also
small enough to leave room for a working tool and fluids to pass
through the lumen.
[0021] The small size of the endoscopic device's cannula diameter
and tip causes the working tool to be very close to and potentially
hit the camera and the soldered joint that secures the camera to
the FPC. To reduce the risk of the working tool contacting the
soldered joint and/or the camera, some embodiments of the present
disclosure include a ramp element that guides the working tool away
from the soldered joint and the camera. The ramp element can also
be designed to reduce in diameter and provide a more effective
control of the working tool. Controlling the working tool improves
accuracy in placing the working tool in desired locations within a
patient's body for examination and operation purposes. The distal
end of the endoscopic device may reduce in diameter along with the
ramp element to provide a narrower tip. Such a narrow tip allows an
easier and smoother penetration through body cavities.
[0022] The LEDs located at the distal tip of the endoscopic device
illuminate the patient tissues so that the camera (which is also
located at the distal tip) can take images of the tissues. It is
desired to block light from entering the camera sensors from other
directions and from sources other than the LEDs. Coating the camera
and its sensors can be effective, but may result in an in
consistent light blockage. In addition, a coating may easily get
scratched, for example, by the working tool that passes through the
cannula and exits the distal tip of the device. Implementations of
the present disclosure provide a housing for the camera. The
housing has walls that surround the camera and substantially blocks
lights that may enter the camera sensor from the camera
surroundings. The walls cover all faces of the camera except a
distal face that captures images and a proximal face that is
soldered to the FPC. While coating may still be used to increase
light blockage, the housing provides a more uniform and reliable
light blockage and reduces a risk of scratches on the coatings.
[0023] It is appreciated that systems and methods in accordance
with the present disclosure can include any combination of the
aspects and features described herein. That is, methods in
accordance with the present disclosure are not limited to the
combinations of aspects and features specifically described herein,
but also include any combination of the aspects and features
provided.
[0024] The details of one or more implementations of the present
disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the
description below. Other features and advantages of the present
disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and
from the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an endoscopic device.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a side view of the endoscopic device of FIG.
1.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the endoscopic
device of FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates a cannula and a flexible printed circuit
of the endoscopic device of FIG. 3.
[0029] FIGS. 5A-5B are perspective views of several components of a
distal end of the endoscopic device of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a coupler at the
distal end of the endoscopic device of FIG. 1
[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view the distal end of the
endoscopic device of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a tip element at the distal end of the
endoscopic device illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0033] FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate perspective views of the tip element
illustrated in FIG. 8.
[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates contacts between the coupler illustrated
in FIG. 6 and other components of the cannula illustrated in FIG.
4.
[0035] FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a method of forming a ramp-shaped
element of the endoscopic device illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0036] FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate a method of attaching the tip
element of FIG. 8 to the coupler illustrated in FIG. 6.
[0037] FIGS. 13A through 13E, illustrate different views of a
distal end of an endoscopic device that includes a molded ramp
element.
[0038] FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective view of the molded ramp
element illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13E.
[0039] FIG. 14B illustrates a cross sectional view of the molded
ramp element of FIG. 14A.
[0040] FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate a distal end of a double-lumen
cannula of an endoscopic device.
[0041] Like reference numbers and designations among the various
drawings indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an endoscopic device 100 (e.g., a
hysteroscope) that can be used to examine a patient's uterus (e.g.,
a uterine cavity). The endoscopic device 100 includes a cannula 102
that is formed to be inserted into a body organ such as the uterus
(e.g., through a body cavity such as the patient's vaginal canal
and cervix), an imaging system 104 located at a distal end 106 of
the cannula 102 for imaging the uterus, and a housing 146 attached
to a proximal end region 110 of the cannula 102 through a
connection hub 108. The endoscopic device 100 further includes a
display 112 for viewing images acquired by the imaging system 104,
and a handle 114 that either extends from the display 112 (as
illustrated) or is in form of a grip 174 along the housing 146.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the cannula 102 is an elongate,
generally tubular member that is sized to pass through a cervix
into a uterus. The cannula 102 includes a shaft 120 and a coupler
126 that secures the imaging system 104 to the distal end 106 of
the shaft 120. The shaft 120 includes a major portion 130 (e.g.,
including the proximal end region 110) with a central axis that
defines a primary axis 122 of the cannula 102, the distal end 106,
and a distal bend 124 that connects the major portion 130 to the
distal end 106.
[0044] The shaft 120 defines a lumen 128 that houses one or more
electrical cables of the imaging system 104, that allows for
passage of fluids between the distal end 106 and the connection hub
108, and that allows for passage of a working tool. The passage
extends distally from the proximal end region 110 of the cannula
102 to the distal end 106 of the cannula. The shaft 120 further
defines a sidewall opening 144 along the proximal end region 110
through which fluid can be delivered to the lumen 128 or withdrawn
(e.g., suctioned) from the lumen 128 (see FIG. 3).
[0045] The working tool can be used for surgery or biopsy purposes.
The working tool can enter the endoscopic device 100 through a
proximal opening 158 of the housing 146 (see FIGS. 1 and 3), pass
through an operative channel 164 and the cannula 102, and exit
through a luminal opening 132 at the coupler 126. The working tool
enters the endoscopic device 100 through the proximal opening 158
of the housing 146 (see FIGS. 1 and 3), passes through the
operative channel 164 and the cannula 102, and exits through the
luminal opening 132. Example working tools that can be passed
through the operative channel 164 include various biopsy
instruments (e.g., forceps, graspers, and scissors) having a size
of 5 French or smaller. For example, the working tool can have an
outer diameter of 1.6 millimeter or smaller.
[0046] The electrical cables of the imaging system 104 within the
lumen 128 include one or more flexible printed circuits (FPC). FIG.
3 illustrates an FPC 184 that extends within the lumen 128 and
electrically connects the imaging system 104 to electrical
components located in the housing 146. The electrical components in
the housing 146 can include a PCB or ROM 182, a camera actuator
148, a display cable, a connection port 160 (e.g., a micro HDMI
port or other types of port) to which the display 112 or the
display cable can be connected, etc.
[0047] The FPC 184 has a proximal portion 184a and a distal portion
184b. The housing 146 is removed in FIG. 4 to illustrate the
proximal portion 184a more clearly. The proximal portion is
connected to a PCB or ROM 182. The FPC 184 extends from the
proximal portion 184a to the distal portion 184b along the lumen
128. The FPC 184 is positioned within an upper third portion of the
lumen 128. The FPC 184 can be shaped (e.g., be bent) to conform
with the inner surface of the lumen 128.
[0048] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the distal portion 184b of the
FPC 184. The distal portion 184b is electrically connected to the
imaging system 104. The imaging system includes a camera 142 and
one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 138. The LEDs 138 are
located on opposite sides of the camera 142 to evenly illuminate
surrounding tissues for image acquisition.
[0049] FIG. 5B is a top view of the distal portion 184b. The
coupler 126 is removed in FIG. 5B to illustrate the electrical
connections between the distal portion 184b of the FPC 184 and
components of the imaging system 104. As illustrated, the camera
142 is soldered to an edge 190 of the distal portion 184b of the
FPC 184. An adhesive material 192 covers the soldered region to
protect the soldered joint from movement and to prevent unwanted
disconnections of the electrical connection between the camera and
the FPC 184. The adhesive material can be an epoxy of any color, or
a clear epoxy.
[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a distal end of the
endoscopic device 100, including the coupler 126 secured to the
distal end 106 of the shaft 120. The coupler is connected to a tip
element 186. FIG. 7 illustrates the tip element 186 at the distal
end of the endoscopic device. The tip element defines (at least
part of) a luminal opening 132 (e.g., a forward facing fluid port)
through which fluids and uterine tissue (e.g., endometrial tissue)
can enter and exit the lumen 128 of the shaft 120. The tip element
also includes two lateral openings 134, 136 in which LEDs 138 are
disposed, and a recessed opening 140 in which the camera 142 is
disposed.
[0051] The FPC 184 extends from the connection port 160 and/or the
PCB 182 to the camera 142, the LEDs 138 and other electrical
components that provide electrical communication amongst the
various components of the imaging system 104.
[0052] The luminal opening 132 at the tip element 186 of the
coupler 126 allows fluid (e.g., a saline solution, a hypotonic
solution, or an isotonic fluid) to exit the distal end 106 to flow
into the uterus and to push tissue or other particulate matter away
from the camera 142 so as to improve a quality of images acquired
by the camera 142. For example, the luminal opening 132 can be
useful in clearing away tissue debris that may collect on the
distal end of the endoscopic device and otherwise impair imaging
due to an overly bright appearance of the debris as light reflects
from the debris. In some cases, the luminal opening 132 can also
facilitate insertion of the cannula 102, as fluid exiting the
luminal opening 132 may lubricate and partially distend tissues
surrounding the distal end 106. In this manner, the luminal opening
132 can reduce a risk of accidental damages to the vaginal cavity,
to the cervix, or to the uterus during insertion of the cannula 102
into the patient.
[0053] The luminal opening 132 is sized to permit passage of one or
more working tools (e.g., a 5 French or smaller biopsy tool). For
example, the luminal opening 132 typically has a cross-sectional
area of about 0.03 cm.sup.2 to about 0.05 cm.sup.2 and is about 50%
to about 80% of a cross-sectional area of the lumen 128,
itself.
[0054] Fluid solution enters the cannula through either the entry
port 152 disposed at the proximal opening 158 of the housing 146,
or a fluid port 150 located adjacent the proximal end region 110 of
the cannula 102. The fluid port 150 is formed as a T-connection and
is typically made of one or materials including polycarbonate, ABS,
or polypropylene. One benefit of introducing fluid through the
fluid port 150 (rather than through the proximal opening 158) is
that introducing the fluid would not interrupt entering or
operation of the working tool. The fluid port 150 is formed to
engage fluidic devices (e.g., syringes or extension tube sets) for
delivering fluid to or withdrawing fluid from the lumen 128 of the
cannula 102.
[0055] As noted above, the tip element 186 includes two lateral
openings 134, 136 in which LEDs 138 are held and disposed, and a
recessed opening 140 in which the camera 142 is held and disposed.
The tip element 186 can be designed to substantially block light
from entering a sensor of the camera 142.
[0056] FIG. 8 illustrates a shield (or housing) 188 of the tip
element 186. The shield 188 surrounds the camera 142 to
substantially block the light so that the camera sensor senses only
reflected LED light. The shield 188 extends from a distal end of
the camera 142 (for example, from the lens of the camera) to a
proximal end of the camera 142 where the camera is soldered to the
FPC 184. The shield 188 has a partitioning portion 188a that
separates the camera 142 from the LEDs 138. The shield includes
walls that cover all faces of the camera except a distal face that
takes images and a proximal face that is soldered to the edge 190
of the FPC 184.
[0057] The tip element can be a molded solid material made of a
polymer, for example, liquid crystal polymer (LCP). The tip can be
black to prevent light leakage from the shield 188 into the camera
sensors.
[0058] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate the tip element 186. The tip
element 186 has a convex shape projecting outward in direction D.
The convex shape is designed to allow a smooth movement of the tip
element 186 through the patient's uterus cavity (or other body
cavities) and reduce a likelihood of scratching or tearing the
cavity.
[0059] The tip element 186 forms at least a wall of a tool channel
that is configured to guide a working tool to exit the endoscopic
device 100 through luminal opening 132. The wall is illustrated as
an upper wall 198 in FIGS. 9A and 9B. The upper wall 198 can be
curved (as illustrated), or can be straight. The upper wall 198 has
a curved inner surface that projects outward towards the camera. A
curvature of the upper wall 198 can be designed based on a
curvature or a diameter of the working tool so as to provide enough
space for the passage of the working tool. Alternatively, the tip
element 186 can be designed to include other walls of the working
channel as well, so as to form the whole luminal opening 132.
[0060] The coupler 126 functions as an interface between the tip
element 186 and the distal end 106 of the shaft 120. The coupler
126 illustrated in FIG. 10 includes a notch 200 that locks into a
notch 194 of the distal end 106 and prevents a rotation of the
coupler.
[0061] The coupler 126 has an inner surface with a first dimeter at
a first portion of the coupler where the coupler covers the distal
end 106, and with a second diameter at a second portion of the
coupler where the coupler covers the distal portion 184b of the FPC
184. The first dimeter may be equal, larger, or smaller than the
second diameter. In some embodiments, the coupler 126 has a
cylindrical outer surface. In some embodiments, the coupler's
diameter varies (for example, drafts down) along the coupler.
[0062] In some embodiments, the coupler 126 has a thread
(receptacle, or slot) 202 that is formed as a bulge in the inner
surface of the coupler, moving from the first portion to the second
portion of the coupler. The thread 202 strengthens the locking
feature of the notch 200. Moving from the first portion of the
coupler to the second portion, the thread may have a width
(w.sub.1) that is substantially equal to the width (w.sub.2) of the
notch 200 (as shown in FIG. 10), or may have a width that is larger
than (as shown in FIG. 6) or smaller than the width of the
notch.
[0063] As noted above, the camera 142 is soldered to the distal
portion 184a of the FPC 184 and the soldered region is protected by
an adhesive material 192. The adhesive material 192 shown in FIG. 6
is applied on a top surface of the distal portion 184a.
Alternatively, or in addition, the adhesive material can be applied
to a bottom surface of the distal portion 184a (as shown in FIG.
13A.
[0064] FIG. 6 also illustrates a ramp-shaped element ("the ramp")
180 located at a bottom surface of the distal portion 184a. The
ramp 180 is configured to protect electrical contacts of the camera
to the FPC from potential impacts caused by the working tool
passing through cannula towards the luminal opening 132. The ramp
180 guides the working tool away from the soldered joint.
[0065] The ramp 180 has a height that varies along the FPC's distal
portion 184a moving towards the tip element 186. The ramp height is
defined in a direction perpendicular to the FPC 184. Moving along
the FPC from about the distal end 106 of the shaft 120 towards the
tip element 186, a value of the height increases. As illustrated in
FIG. 6, the ramp's first height (h1) proximate the distal end 106
is lower than the ramp's second height (h2) proximate the tip
element 186. Such variation in the ramp height guides a working
tool that passes through a tool channel 204 (hachured area) away
from the adhesive material 192 and/or from the camera 142.
[0066] The ramp 180 may be secured to the bottom surface of the
FPC's distal portion 184a, to the tip element 186, or to both. The
ramp 180 may be made of one or more adhesive materials or may be
secured to the FPC or the tip element by an adhesive material.
[0067] FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a method of forming the ramp 180.
In this method, an inner surface of a nest 206 is filled with an
adhesives material. The inner surface has a ramp shape so that when
the adhesive is hardened and detached from the nest 206, the
ramp-shape element 180 is formed. Depending on the material used,
the adhesive material may be hardened by leaving the adhesive
material in the nest for a pre-determined period of time, or by a
post-process procedure such as by exposing the adhesive material to
a radiation (e.g., curing by UV light).
[0068] Upon forming the ramp 180, the tip element 186 along with
the ramp 180 are attached to the coupler 126. FIGS. 12A and 12B
illustrate a method of attaching the tip element to the coupler.
The coupler 126 and the shaft 120 are moved towards the tip element
186 (FIG. 12A), and attached to the tip element 186 (FIG. 12B). In
some embodiments, a contacting portion 208 of the coupler 126 has a
profile that mates a contact portion 210 of the tip element. In
some examples, the contact portions 208 and 210 have one or more
indentation or bulges that mate each other and prevent a rotation
of the coupler and the tip element.
[0069] In some embodiments, a molded ramp element is used to guide
the working tool in the working channel. The molded ramp element
can be manufactured in advance and be assembled on the endoscopic
device.
[0070] FIGS. 13A through 13E, illustrate different views of a
distal end of an endoscopic device that includes a molded ramp
element 212, according to the present disclosure. The molded ramp
element 212 is positioned within the coupler 126 and between the
distal end 106 of the shaft 120 and the tip element 186. The molded
ramp element 212 has an outer upper surface that is in contact with
the FPC 184, with a portion of the adhesive material 192, or both.
The molded ramp element 212 has an inner surface that drafts down
in diameter as the molded ramp element extends towards the tip
element 186.
[0071] FIG. 14A illustrates an example molded ramp 212 that is used
in the device of FIGS. 13A-13C. The molded ramp element 212 has a
cavity that forms (at least part of) the tool channel 204 through
which a working tool can pass. The molded ramp element has a flat
outer upper surface 218 to support the FPC from the bottom.
[0072] FIG. 14B illustrates a cross sectional view of the molded
ramp element 212. The molded ramp element 212 has an inner surface
216. Moving from a proximal portion 220 of the molded ramp element
212 to a distal portion 222 of the molded ramp, the distance
between an upper portion 224 of the inner surface 216 and the outer
upper surface 218 changes so that a ramp profile 214 is created on
the upper portion 224 of the inner surface 216. This ramp profile
is designed so that when the molded ramp element 212 is positioned
between the shaft 120's distal end 106 and the tip element 186 (see
FIG. 14), the ramp profile guides the working tool away from the
adhesive material 192. Particularly, the ramp profile guides the
working tool away from the soldered joints and the contact surface
232 of the adhesive material 192 below the FPC 184. Such design
protects the soldered joint of the camera 142 from impacts of the
working tool.
[0073] The molded ramp element 212 can be designed with surface
profiles of the coupler, the tip, or both and eliminate a need to
use an adhesive for attaching the molded ramp element to the FPC.
For example, the molded ramp element 212 has an outer surface that
includes one or more indentations (or groves) 226 that mate with
one or more bulges (or ribs) 228 of an inner surface of the coupler
126 (see FIG. 13B). Alternatively, or in addition, the outer
surface of the molded ramp element 212 can have one or more bulges
(or ribs) that mate with one or more indentations arranged on the
inner surface of the coupler 126. FIG. 13E illustrates a bottom
view of the distal end of the endoscopic device and the molded ramp
element 212.
[0074] The molded ramp element 212 illustrated in FIGS. 13A-14B
includes two extensions 230 configured to prevent the molded ramp
element 212 from rotation. Although FIGS. 13A through 14B
illustrate two extensions, the molded ramp element can have any
number of extensions or no extension.
[0075] Although the endoscopic devices illustrated in FIGS. 1
through 14B have a single lumen, the endoscopic device described
herein can have more than one lumen. FIGS. 15A through 15B
illustrate a distal end of a double-lumen cannula 240.
[0076] FIG. 15A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal
end of the double-lumen cannula 240. The cannula 240 has a first
lumen 242 and a second lumen 244. Electrical cables such as an FPC
184 pass through the first lumen 242, while a working tool and
fluids pass through the second lumen 244. The first lumen 242 is
separated from the second lumen 244 by a wall 246. The wall 246 can
be continuously extended along the cannula.
[0077] The tip element 186 is removed in FIG. 15B to illustrate the
positions of the camera and LEDs more clearly. As illustrated, the
molded ramp element 212 separates the passage of the working tool
from the FPC 184 within the coupler 126 so that the working tool
exits from the luminal opening 132 without contacting the camera
142 or the LEDs 138.
[0078] Depending on the size of the working tool, the molded ramp
element 212 can be designed to draft down in diameter as the molded
ramp element extends towards the tip element 186. The molded ramp
element 212 has a ramp-shaped lower surface 248. Moving from the
proximal portion 220 of the molded ramp element 212 to its distal
portion 222, the lower surface 248 inclines towards the ramp 180
(see FIG. 15A). A molded ramp element with a ramp-shaped lower
surface allows a more effective control of the working tool and
thus, improves accuracy in placing the working tool in desired
locations within a patient's body.
[0079] In some embodiments, the coupler 126 drafts down in diameter
along the molded ramp element 212's lower surface 248. Such coupler
provides a narrower tip for the endoscopic device, which allows an
easier and smoother penetration through body cavities.
[0080] Referring back to FIGS. 1-2, the connection hub 108 can also
provide several features for fluid and electrical communication
between the proximal end region 110 of the cannula 102 and the
distal end 106 of the cannula 102. For example, the camera actuator
148 (e.g., providing two opposite push buttons 176), and the fluid
port 150 can be part of the connection hub 108. In this case, the
cannula 102, the imaging system 104, and the connection hub 108
together form a portion 116 of the endoscopic device 100 that can
be used for a single-use operation to be disposed of following an
examination of a patient's uterus. The portion 116 can be provided
in a sealed, sterile package that can be stored until a time of
use. The display 112 and the handle 114 together form a reusable
portion 118 of the endoscopic device 100 that is designed to be
attached to and detached from several single-use portions 116 to
respectively examine multiple patients' uteruses. The reusable
portion 118 is sterilized (e.g., cleaned and disinfected) following
examination of each patient's uterus (e.g., prior to examining a
next patient's uterus).
[0081] The cannula 102 typically has a total length (e.g., as
measured along the primary axis 122) of about 30.0 cm to about 34.0
cm (e.g., about 32.0 cm). The proximal end region 110 of the
cannula 102 (e.g., the portion of the cannula 102 that is disposed
within the connection hub 108) typically has a length of about 4.0
cm to about 4.6 cm (e.g., about 4.3 cm), such that a remaining
portion of the cannula 102 extends distally from the connection hub
108 and is therefore exposed for insertion into the patient. The
distal bend 124 typically has a radius of about 2.5 cm to about 7.5
cm (e.g., about 5.0 cm). The shaft 120 typically has a wall
thickness of about 0.03 cm to about 0.05 cm (e.g., about 0.04 cm)
and an inner diameter (e.g., a luminal diameter) of about 0.34 cm
to about 0.36 cm (e.g., about 0.35 cm).
[0082] The shaft 120 is typically made of one or more materials
that are flexible enough to allow the cannula 102 to bend by a
small amount to be appropriately placed within the patient as
desired, yet stiff enough to permit easy insertion into the vaginal
canal. Example materials from which the shaft 120 is typically made
include nylon, polysulfone, and polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The
cannula 102 is typically manufactured primarily via extrusion and
via secondary processes that may include one or more of punching,
laser cutting, forming, and/or printing. The coupler 126 is
typically made of one or more materials including liquid crystal
polymer (LCP) and is typically secured to the distal end 106 of the
shaft 120 via adhesive.
[0083] The housing 146 is generally axially aligned with the
primary axis 122 of the cannula 102 and has a generally curved
profile that is laterally symmetric. The housing 146 defines a
distal opening 162 through which the cannula 102 passes, an opening
154 (e.g., aligned with the sidewall opening 144 of the shaft 120)
to which the fluid port 150 is secured, an operative channel 164
that surrounds the operative conduit 156, the proximal opening 158,
and an upper connection port 160 (e.g., a micro HDMI port or
another type of port) to which the display 112 or a display cable
can be connected. In this regard, the connection hub 108 also
includes electrical components (e.g., a small PCB or a flex circuit
with an EEPROM, not shown) that communicate the camera actuator 148
with the connection port 160. The housing 146 further defines
additional internal wall features (e.g., flanges, openings,
brackets, tabs, etc.) that properly position the fluid port 150,
the camera actuator 148, the connection port 160, and the entry
port 152.
[0084] The housing 146 of the connection hub 108 typically has a
length (e.g., as measured along the primary axis 122 of the cannula
102) of about 10 cm to about 20 cm (e.g., about 15 cm) and a
maximum width of about 20 cm to about 30 cm (e.g., about 25 cm).
The housing 146 typically has a handle seating width (e.g., as
defined by a distance between opposite surfaces of the receptacles
170) of about 1.4 cm to about 1.8 cm (e.g., about 1.6 cm). The
housing 146 is typically made of one or more materials including
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polycarbonate or
copolyester and is typically manufactured via injection
molding.
[0085] The operative channel 164 can include an operative conduit
156 that may be curved or straight. The operative conduit is
typically made of one or more materials including polyvinyl
chloride (PVC). In some embodiments, the curved profile of the
operative conduit 156 provides space needed within the connection
hub 108 for one or more electronic components, such as a PCB. The
operative conduit 156 is sized to allow passage of a working tool
from the entry port 152 to the distal end 106 of the cannula
102.
[0086] The entry port 152 includes a valve assembly that is
configured to receive a working tool without leakage of fluids or
tissues from the entry port 152. Valve components of the entry port
152 are typically made of silicon or a thermoplastic elastomer. A
rear location of the entry port 152 (e.g., at the proximal opening
158) facilitates insertion of a working tool into the endoscopic
device 100, as compared to placement of a port along a top or side
surface, as is typically the case with conventional devices.
[0087] The push buttons 176 of the camera actuator 148 serve as
Snap/Video buttons that control capture (e.g., recording and/or
storing) of still images and video from the camera 142, such that
pressing either or both of the push buttons 176 for a threshold
period (e.g., 1 second) or less results in capture of a single,
still photo, whereas pressing either or both of the push buttons
176 for longer than the threshold period results in capture of a
video recording. While a video is being recorded, a single press of
a push button 176 stops capturing of the video. The push buttons
176 can be easily pressed with one or more of a user's fingers on
the hand that is holding or inserting the endoscopic device 100. An
overhanging edge 178 of the coupler 126 acts as a lens hood that
shields light from directly impinging on the LEDs 138 and from
entering an aperture of the camera 142.
[0088] The camera 142 includes a complementary
metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor module, a lens, and a glass
cover. The CMOS sensor module includes a low voltage color CMOS
image sensor core, an image sensor processor, and an image output
interface circuitry. By providing integrated digital video
processing within the CMOS sensor module, some aspects of video
processing can be performed directly on the same printed circuit
board (PCB) as the CMOS sensor module, or on the same substrate in
which the CMOS is formed such that the imaging plane of the CMOS
and the plane along which the video processing circuits extend
substantially coincide. Furthermore, the display 112 includes an
image signal processing (ISP) chip that can perform additional
aspects of the image processing and that can support various video
formats. The video signal from the CMOS sensor module can be in any
suitable video format, such as National Television System Committee
(NTSC), Phase Alternating Line (PAL), or another common video
format.
[0089] While this specification contains many specifics, these
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the
disclosure or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of
features specific to particular implementations. Certain features
that are described in this specification in the context of separate
implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single
implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in
the context of a single implementation may also be implemented in
multiple implementations separately or in any suitable
sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above
as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as
such, one or more features from a claimed combination may in some
cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination
may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a
sub-combination.
[0090] A number of implementations have been described.
Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
disclosure. For example, various forms of the flows shown above may
be used, with steps re-ordered, added, or removed. The endoscopic
devices described herein can be used in examining any body organs
that is reachable through a body cavity. Accordingly, other
implementations are within the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *