The invention relates to a flexible endoscope for specialized diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed through hollow organs or body cavity.

There are known two types of medical endoscopes: inflexible endoscopes and flexible endoscopes such as bronchoscopes, gastroscopes and colonoscopes. Flexible endoscopes are equipped with a handle which, by means of a guiding connector, in most of cases conical shape, is connected to a insertion tube. The insertion tube has a form of flexible tube inside equipped with a bundle of functional channels, that are made inside and are performed through the tube, and it ends with a distal tip. Deflection of the distal tip is carried out by angulation wires which are pulled throughout the insertion tube and controlled by the knobs located on the handle. Functional channels are as follows: biopsy-suction channel, air channel, channel for flushing optical-illumination parts, or an water channel for flushing an observation area supplied from a separate pump. Optical fibers and electrical wires are also led through the endoscope to provide a light for video vision. Commonly functional channels, the optical fibers and the electrical wires come out from the handle and are connected to peripherals media by a bundle of terminals to provide the transmission of media for all functionalities, throughout the whole length of the endoscope until the end of the endoscope.

In known flexible endoscopes an elastic insertion tube ended with a tip, a handle, guiding connectors and the bundle of terminals stand as one inseparable part that means cannot be disassembled and removed. The known endoscopes have an optical-illumination elements which are not entirely separated from the functional channels, that means the elements cannot be removed from the endoscope. Due to the fact, the biopsy- suction channel often can be damaged during medical procedures that leads also to serious damages of the optical-illumination elements as well.

Endoscopy as a diagnostic tool, is unusually and commonly useful in diagnostics, but it involves a serious threat of infections mainly caused by mistakes made during cleaning, disinfection or sterilization of the devices. A particular design of endoscopes makes the procedure of cleaning and sterilizing very problematic. On the other hand, endoscopes are expensive so they are mostly produce as reusable devices. After medical procedure the endoscope is thoroughly cleaned, highly level disinfected and sterilized. This requires appropriate equipment as also technically and medically qualified staff. Critical parts and elements of the endoscopic devices that are susceptible for contamination and infection are these part with small diameters and significant length such as long functional channels of insertion tube. Because of complicated shapes and various materials that they are made of, specialized, more complicated methods of disinfection and sterilization are required.

Statistics show that practically every case of documented infection during endoscopy has been caused by abnormalities in cleaning, disinfection or sterilization. Many disinfectants that are used successfully for simple medical devices do not work well with more complex as endoscopes. Alcohols, aldehydes and high temperatures used in disinfection can induce a preservation of impurities and consequently formation of biofilms, especially on hard surfaces such as narrow functional channels. These disinfectants can be harmful for the personnel's health as well.

The increase of epidemiological risk associated with nosocomial infections require more effective methods against the transmission of infections. Unquestionably the most safe method here will be using disposable medical devices which after the medical treatment are disposed of.

Endoscopes that contain disposable elements are known. Polish patent application no. 1644119 discloses a flexible endoscope, where the distal end, of which in relation to the power supply unit, is connected separable with the working part of the insertion tube penetrating the interior of patient body, whereby separable connected are also pulled inside the handle and working part of the insertion tube optical fibers , water and air channels and angulation wires. In this solution optical fibers, channels, angulation wires have junctions where the working part of the insertion tube and the handle are connected.

This way the endoscope is equipped with detachable out of the handle that means removable and disposable insertion tube containing the bundles of functional channels, angulation wires, optical fibers. The handle and its connections require thorough cleaning, disinfection and sterilization before reuse. However, the problem of the high costs of components of disposable parts of the endoscope remains unresolved in the invention.

Patent application EP 1765146 discloses a micro camera embedded in a sealed casing that is a reusable element for other medical devices, including an endoscope. This element includes a housing, lenses, semiconductor sensor, electronic controllers, internal electrical connectors. Internal and external electrical connectors include a number of pins or sockets arranged in pattern matching on the opposite surfaces so that the camera head can be connected and disconnected from the proper device. The micro camera is used in a reusable manner and the remaining components of the device in a disposable manner. The visual components in the endoscope, like micro cameras are separable from other endoscope parts including means for lighting, illumination function. Reusable visual elements are subjected to washing, disinfection and sterilization. According to the disclosed invention, electrical connectors of the micro controller may be exposed to body fluids and during disinfecting and sterilizing to hot steam or chemicals, which may require additional protection for micro cameras for endoscopic applications.

Hitherto, there is still a problem caused by high cost of using disposable specialized elements of endoscopes on the one hand and on the other hand there are necessary requirements of reducing the risk of contamination and infection in case of endoscopic elements used in a reusable manner.

The object of the invention is to provide . the flexible endoscope which reduces such complications. Unexpectedly, applying a technically removable optical-illumination elements with specific construction in the endoscopes that allows to be separated from other means for other functions carried out through the functional channels of the insertion tube such as the water channel, air channel, suction channel, tools channel, enables to reduce the high cost of endoscopic procedures and the risk of contamination and infection.

Thus according to invention, the flexible endoscope wherein the insertion tube is in a form of an elastic tube equipped with a bunch of functional channels ended with a distal tip, is characterized in that, the endoscope comprising a removable and independent optical-illumination module containing an elastic tube ended with a capsule while within, inside, the insertion tube an optical- illumination channel is formed. Within the elastic tube there are performed optical fiber bundles and electrical wires ended with terminals for peripheral devices. A micro camera equipped with lenses and with terminals of optical fiber bundle and electrical wires is provided within the capsule. If the optical-illumination module is installed in the endoscope, the capsule is placed stable in a distal tip while the distal tip is formed by movable connected parts.

Preferably, the elastic tube of the optical-illumination module is conducted inside and through the whole of the length of the insertion tube through the optical-illumination channel and in addition at least through a part of a distal guiding connector.

Preferably, the elastic tube of the optical-illumination module is conducted inside the insertion tube through the optical-illumination channel and in addition through the distal guiding connector and through a handle. Preferably, the distal tip is formed by at least the two parts that are connected in separable or inseparable manner, wherein the parts, when connected, form the internal optical-illumination channel inside which the capsule of the optical-illumination module is installed.

Preferably, in a cross-section, a diameter of the capsule is larger than diameter of the elastic tube and furthermore the distal tip is equipped with a hook with length matched to narrowing being formed between the capsule and the elastic tube of the optical-illumination module.

Preferably, on an outer surface of the capsule at least one fence is formed, preferably three fences, and through the whole length of the optical-illumination channel and on its inner contour at least one fence pocket is made, preferably three fence pockets, and the form of the fence pockets are matched to the fences of the capsule.

Preferably, the elastic tube of the optical-illumination module is coated with a metal sheath and/or a metal braid.

Preferably, in the capsule of the optical-illumination module a temperature recorder is placed.

Preferably, a mirror of variable adjustment of angle is attached to the distal tip.

Preferably, a bunch of functional channels of the insertion tube is formed as a multi-channel tube and is made as one solid element.

Preferably, in the distal guiding connector the outer input of optical-illumination module is made.

Preferably, a bunch of functional channels and an optical-illumination channel are formed by the inner walls of the handle.

Preferably, the functional channels of the insertion tube are particularly an air channel, a suction channel, a water channel for flushing lenses, a water channel for flushing an observation area, an angulation wires channel.

Preferably, a suction channel formed within the handle that sets continuation of a suction channel of the insertion tube functional channels is equipped with a filter.

According to the invention, the single use, disposable endoscope is provided with a sealed, independent and removable optical-illumination reusable module. This invention eliminates the main disadvantages of reusable endoscopes and at the same time it saves the most expensive components of the device such as micro-camera, optical fibers, electrical components and lenses which also stay reusable according to this invention.

The optical-illumination module, according to invention, can be apply to all known types of endoscopic procedures performed with flexible endoscopes by easily mounting it inside the device and thereby creating an universal, cost-effective and safe endoscopy system. In each of the embodiments of the invention, the optical-illumination module is positioned across the entire length of the insertion tube, independently of any functional channels provided in the insertion tube. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the module is continuously located further through the other elements of the endoscope such as the distal guiding connector, the handle, the proximal guiding connector. The output of the optical-illumination module is formed either in the element connecting the insertion tube and the handle, in the handle itself or in the proximal guiding connector.

The invention enables to substantially reduce the risk of infection transmission by facilitating and simplifying the daily usage of the endoscope particularly by the disposable design of the insertion tube containing functional channels, which are the most exposed to contamination and which constitute the greatest epidemiological risk in modern endoscopes. The preparation of the optical- illumination module for reuse in next medical procedure is much easier comparing to the preparation of entire endoscope according to current procedures as cleaning channels and performing tightness tests. Expensive endoscopic disinfectants are not required and specialized long-term storage cabinets for multiple-use endoscopes are not needed.

The invention can be used in diagnostics and also as a device for treatment procedures especially in gastrofiberoscopy, colonofiberoscopy, bronchofiberoscopy and if equipped with a variable angle mirror also in duodenoscopy. The invention make the endoscopic procedure more available and disseminates such important medical procedures.

The invention is shown in more details in the examples and drawings wherein:

Fig. 1 is an axonometric view of an endoscope, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2 is a 3D view of a distal end of a flexible part of an insertion tube with visible coating, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 is a view of a bunch of functional channels, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4 is a half-section view of a distal guiding connector and a proximal end of an insertion tube, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 is a view of a distal end of a flexible part of an insertion tube, a bending section and a distal end of an endoscope with is visible a distal end without metal mesh and polymeric coating, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 6 is a longitudinal-section view of a snap-fit connection of a handle with distal guiding connector, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 is a cross-section view of a handle with one valve visible, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 8 is a cross-section view of the handle with visible filter,

Fig. 9 is w view of channels passing through a handle, a proximal end, and a bundle of connecting channels, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 10 is an axonometric view of a part one of an distal tip, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 11 is an axonometric view of a part two of an distal tip, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12 is a frontal view of the distal end of the endoscope with its second part deflected, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 13 is a frontal view of the distal tip of the endoscope with its closed part one, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 14 is a half-section view of a bellow of flexible part, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 15 is a cross-section view of a flexible part of an insertion tube, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 16 is a longitudinal-section view of a distal end of a distal tip of a flexible part of an insertion tube in a plane A shown in Fig. 2, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 17 is a view of an insertion tube connection with a distal guiding connector, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 18 is an axonometric view of an optical-illumination module, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 19 is a view of a capsule of an optical-illumination module, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 20 is a half-section of an endoscope tip with inserted end of an optical-illumination module, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 21 is an axonometnc view of an endoscope with an optical-illumination module inserted in a channel leading through a distal guiding connector, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 22 is an axonometric view of an endoscope with a diagram of an optical-illumination module in a channel formed by all of an endoscope elements, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 23 is a cross-section through a handle with visible .one. valve and an optical-illumination channel, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 24 is a view of a proximal guiding connector and a connecting channels bundle with an optical- illumination module, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 25 is an axonometric view of an optical-illumination module equipped with fences, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 26 is a view of a Bunch of functional channels with fence pockets of an optical-illumination module, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 27 is an axonometric view of a part one of an endoscope

with fence pockets of an optical-illumination channel, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 28 is an axonometric view of a part two of an endoscope provided with a hook, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 29 is a half-section view of an distal tip with a capsule of an optical-illumination module inserted in and stabilized by a hook, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 30 is a half-section of an distal tip equipped with an adjustable angle mirror, according to exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Example 1

a) flexible endoscope structure.

As presented in the Figure 1, the flexible endoscope comprises an insertion tube 1 in a form of elastic tube, a guiding connection in form of a distal guiding connector 2, a handle 3, a proximal guiding connector 4, a connecting channels bundle 5 having a form of a bundle of elastic tubes which make the outlet of the endoscope function channels that connect peripheral devices such as suction device and pumping water and air device. On the handle 3 are placed valves 8 and knobs which control angulation wires 9.

As presented in the Fig. 18, the endoscope is equipped with a removable and an independent optical- illumination module 12, which is performed in a separated optical-illumination channel. The optical- illumination module 12 includes an elastic tube 12b, ended with a capsule 12a. The optical- illumination module 12 is described in this example further.

The insertion tube 1 is divided into a distal tip la, a bending section lb, a flexible part lc. As it is shown in the Fig. 2, bunch of functional channels 13 are placed inside the insertion tube 1. The bunch of functional channels 13 is formed as a multichannel tube made of flexible polymer, can be low density polyethylene, which is made as one solid element Fig. 3. Bunch of function channels 13 of insertion tube 1 includes: air channel 13b, suction channel 13c, water channel for flushing lenses 13d, water channel for flushing an observation area 13e, angulation wires channels 13f and pockets 13g for flexible portion of bellow ld3. Insertion tube 1 is provided with an independent optical- illumination channel 13 a. Bunch of functional channels 13 is conducted through the insertion tube 1 connecting channels in the handle 3 by the distal guiding connector 2, and from the other side connecting channels in the distal tip la, as shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5.

The function of the distal guiding connector 2 is to attach the insertion tube 1 to the handle 3 and to connect the functional channels: suction, air, for lens flushing, for flushing an observation area and also angulation wires channels between the insertion tube 1 and the handle 3.

The optical-illumination channel 13a and the angulation wires channels 13f of the insertion tube 1 are respectively connected to the optical-illumination channel 2c and the angulation wires channels 2e provided in the distal guiding connector 2 without having necessary sealing of the joint with additional elements which could cause an effect of narrowing in the cross-section of the channels. The remaining functional channels 13 of the insertion tube 1 : suction channel 13 c, air 13b, water channels for flushing lenses 13d and water channel for flushing an observation area 13e are connected to respective channels of the distal guiding connector 2 by means of sealed distal joints 2dl which are formed as fittings shaped parts adjusted to their internal diameters, what is presented in the Fig. 4. In the distal guiding connector 2 the change of direction or size of all the functional channels of the insertion tube 1 is performed to adjust them to the construction and a size of the handle 3 ,as shown in Fig. 4 for the suction channel 2d and its proximal joint 2d2 and the distal joint 2dl. The channel for angulation wire 2el in the distal guiding connector 2 is led under the suction channel 2d. The distal guiding connector 2 is provided with an entrance of a biopsy channel 6 which is connected with the suction channel and is used for inserting endoscopic instruments through it. In the distal guiding connector 2 is made an entrance 11 for the optical-illumination module, as shown in the Fig.l.

As presented in the Fig. 6, the proximal flange 2g of the distal guiding connector 2 containing around the whole perimeter the outer, .wall of the handle 3 is connected inseparably with the distal end of the handle 3 by snap-fits 3i.

As shown in the Fig. 7, in the handle 3 functional channels are provided extending the bunch of functional channels 13 of the insertion tube 1 which are: air channel 3d, suction channel 3c, water channel for flushing lenses 3b, water channel flushing an observation area 3 a, angulation wires channels 3f. The function channels of the handle 3 are formed by the inner walls of the handle 3j and form an integral part with it.

Functional channels of the handle 3 are provided with channel valves 8 (it can be piston valves) such as an air channel valve 8d, suction channel valve 8c, a water channel valve for flushing lenses 8b, a water channel valve for flushing an observation area 8a. The flow of media in the corresponding channel is closed or opened by channel valves 8.

As presented in the Fig. 8, the suction channel 3 c in the handle 3 is additionally provided with a removable filter 3h distally mounted from the suction channel valve 8c. It is a "trap" preventing clogging of the suction channel valve 8c during operating the endoscope and also is it a place to retain endothelial tissue fragments such as polyps when the suction function is in use.

The handle 3 is connected inseparably to the proximal guiding connector 4 and the functional channels 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d of the handle 3 connecting to the aqueous channels 5b, suction 5c and air 5d of the connecting channels bundle 5 through the functional channels of the proximal guiding connector 4: air channel junction 4d, water channel junction 4b, suction channel junction 4c. In the proximal guiding connector 4, the water channel 4b is separated and connected to the water channel for flushing lenses 3b and the water channel for flushing an observation area 3 a of the handle 3, as shown in the Fig. 9. Fig. 10 and Fig. 1 1 show the distal tip la of the endoscope consisting two parts - a first part lal and a second part la2, which are connected to one of their edges by a connecting element la3 formed on them by a distal tip la narrowing between a part one lal and a part two la2 and being a flexible polymer band permanently assembled with both parts of the distal tip lal and la2. In this way, the connecting element la3 is formed, through which both parts lal and la2 can be tilted as shown in Fig. 12. As shown in the Fig. 10, Fig.l 1, Fig.12 and Fig. 13, opposite to the connecting member la3 the first part lal is provided with pins for the pin sockets lali, the second part la2 with pins la2b, which guarantee for good connection of the two parts by means of a separable connection. As shown in the Fig. 10, an optical-illumination channel lal a is provided for inserting the capsule 12a of the optical-illumination module 12 within the distal tip l a. This channel is formed after closure of both ,·,. ^■ part one lal and part two la2 of the distal tip la.

The precise alignment of the outer surface of the capsule 12a to the inner surface of the distal tip la provide a stable positioning of the capsule 12a in the distal tip la. In this way, both parts of the endoscope are connected after sealing the first part lal and the second end la2 of the distal tip la. In addition, the distal tip la is provided with angulation wire sockets lalg for fixing four of angulation wires causing bending in perpendicular, horizontal and vertical planes.

As shown in the Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, a bending section lb of the insertion tube comprises a bellow of flexible part Id in the form of a bellow which is shielded by a protector 10 made from a flexible polymer. In the bending section lb, further ends of the bunch of functional channels 13 of the insertion tube 1 and further sections of the angulation wires 14 are led. The bellow of flexible part Id, by its properties, improves and stabilizes the bending of the bending section lb of the insertion tube. As shown in the Fig. 15, the bellow of flexible part Id in the form of a bellow has angulation wire pockets ld3a for the angulation wires 14 which are placed in series in the longitudinal axis of the bellow of flexible part Id against the channels of the respective angulation wires channels 13f. The appropriate position of the bellow of flexible part Id is provided by bellow ribs ld3b which are located in pockets 13g created around the walls forming the contour of the bunch of functional channels 13 of the insertion tube 1. In this solution of the bending section lb of the insertion tube 1 the pulling of wires through the holes in the bending section lb is not required, because pushing a bellow of flexible part Id on the bunch of functional channels 13 can be sufficient.

As shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 16, the flexible part lc of the insertion tube 1 is covered with a metal mesh lc2 and a polymeric coating lcl made of polyethylene. At the distal end of the flexible part lc of the insertion tube, the polymeric coating lcl is ended with the boundary lc3 exposing the metal mesh lc2 on which the proximal end ldl of bellow Id is put. The distal end ld2 of the bellow of flexible part Id is connected to the distal tip la of the endoscope whilst the bunch of functional channels 13 with angulation wires 14, without polymeric coating lcl and the metal mesh lc2 passes inside the bellow of flexible part Id and is connected to the channels of the distal tip la of the endoscope by means of appropriate suction channel junction lalj Fig. 5.

The flexible part lc of the insertion tube 1 at the proximal end having a circular widening formed by the polymer coating lcl and having a form of a flange le forming together with a bushing 2a a connection of the insertion tube 1 with the bellow 2 of the flexible part lc. The bushing 2a is equipped with a snap _^ fit socket 2al securing a snap-fit 2b of the distal guiding connector 2 and its inner shape is adjusted to the flange shape le Fig. 17. The shape of the flange le in a cross-section is different than a spherical shape, here for example quadrilateral preventing the rotation of the insertion tube 1 in relation to the distal guiding connector 2 and the handle 3.

As shown in the Fig. 18 and Fig. 19, the optical-illumination module 12 comprises a capsule 12a and the elastic tube 12b. As shown in Fig. 20, the capsule 12a comprises a micro camera 12a6 with a lenses 12a3, distal segments of the optical fibers 12a2a with lenses 12a2 for illumination the observed field. The temperature recorder 12a5 is located in the capsule 12a. The temperature recorder 12a5 registers temperature increasing as a function of time, which allows for assessment of sterilization level or disinfection process. The distal end of the capsule 12a is formed by the oblique planes 12a4 to prevent protrusion beyond the frontal plane of the distal tip la and rotating as well and represent a contour of the inner shape of the oblique planes lalf of the distal tip la. The oblique planes 12a4 are located between the lenses of optical fibers 12a2.

Through the elastic tube 12b of the optical-illumination module 12 optical fiber bundles 12b4 and electrical wires 12b3 are led and connected by the suitable terminals to the peripheral devices. The elastic tube 12b is covered with a polymer coating 12bl made of polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE or a thermoplastic elastomer covering a metal braid 12b2. The electrical wires 12b3 and the optical fiber bundles 12b4 are protected by the polymer coating 12bl and the braid 12b2. Using a braid of various densities decreasing towards to the capsule 12a allows the elastic tube 12b to be gradually flexile so that its flexibility is increased toward the capsule 12a.

The optical-illumination module 12 is led through the distal guiding connector 2 in such a fashion that the capsule 12a and the elastic tube 12b of the optical-illumination module 12 are inserted through the input of the optical-illumination module 11, an opening for the optical-illumination module 12 formed in the wall of the distal guiding connector 2, which leads to its optical- illumination channel 2c and further down the optical-illumination channel 13a of the insertion tube 1 to the distal tip la, as it is shown in Fig. 21.

The optical-illumination module 12 is connected via optical and electrical connectors to peripherals such as a computer, image processor, light source. A light from the light generating device is transmitted through the optical fiber bundles 12b4 of the optical-illumination module 12 to the end of the endoscope. The optical fiber bundles 12b4 is connected to light source by means of an optical connector. The signal from micro camera 12a6 is transmitted by electrical wires 12b3 of the optical- illumination module 12 via electrical connectors detachably connected to a peripheral device which may be a computer or dedicated image processor only. The micro camera 12a6 and PC can be connected via USB or S-video bus.

b) Mounting and unmounting the optical-illumination module.

As presented in the Fig. 21, the optical-illumination module 12 is inserted into the optical- illumination channel 2c through the input 11 through the distal guiding connector 2. Further the optical-illumination module 12 is pulled in the optical-illumination channel 13a of the insertion tube 1 until the capsule 12a is inserted into the optical-illumination channel lala in a distal tip la. Before closing parts lal and la2 of the distal tip la the positioning correction should be made in order to achieve a good quality of video registration. The optical-illumination module 12 is mounted in such a way that after being installed in the endoscope, the capsule is placed stable in a distal tip while the distal tip is formed by movable connected parts. Parts lal and la2 are connected with pins la2b and pin sockets lali. After closing of the part one lal and the part two la2 of the distal tip la a stable connection is created by the precise alignment of the outer surface of the capsule 12a to the inner surface of the distal tip la. The oblique planes lalf of the distal tip adjusted to the oblique planes 12a4 of the capsule 12a prevent from changing position and protruding the capsule beyond the forehead of the distal tip la.

After medical procedure the optical-illumination module 12 is unmounted. The distal tip la is opened so that the part one lal is disengaged from the part two la2 by pulling off the pins la2b from the pins sockets lali, thus allowing the part one lal and part two la2 of the distal tip la to be folded back and for disengaged the capsule 12a from the distal tip la. The optical-illumination module 12 is then pulled out back through the input of optical-illumination module 11 of the distal end 2, preciously having disconnected the terminals from the peripheral devices.

The optical-illumination module 12 when separated should be disinfected or sterilized while the remaining parts of the endoscope are disposable so can be disposed of. The endoscope constructed accordingly with this invention guarantee safe medical procedures for the patients and the medical staff, also reduction of costs of using expensive elements.

Example 2

a) Flexible endoscope structure.

The endoscope is constructed as described in the Example 1 with exception that the optical- , ί illumination module 12 is pulled in throughout the.entire length of the endoscope.

As shown in the Fig.22, the optical-illumination module 12 is located in the optical-illumination channel formed in the following parts of the endoscope: in insertion tube 1, distal end 2, handle 3, proximal guiding connector 4, connecting channels bundle 5.

In the distal end 2 an optical-illumination channel 2c is formed and connected tangentially with the optical-illumination channel 13a of the insertion tube 1 and with optical-illumination channel of the handle 3e.

As shown in the Fig. 23, functional channels: air channel 3d, suction channel 3c, water channel for flushing lenses 3b, water channel for flushing an observation area 3a, angulation wire channels 3f, and optical-illumination module channel 3e are formed. The walls of all channels are created by inner walls of the handle 3. The handle 3 is equipped with valves 8 for the following channels: air channel valve 8d, suction channel valve 8c, water channel valve for flushing lenses 8b, water channel valve for flushing an observation area 8a.

Functional channels of the handle 3 are connected through the proximal end 4 with the channels of the connecting channel bundle 5 through the water channel junction 4b, the suction channel junction 4c, the air channel junction 4d. On the other hand, the optical-illumination channel 4a of the proximal guiding connector 4 has its outlet 4a 1. The bundle of the connecting channels 5 is provided with a longitudinal slot 5al of the optical-illumination channel 5a through the long axis, as presented in the Fig. 24.

b) Mounting and unmounting of the optical-illumination module.

As shown in the Fig. 22 and Fig. 24, the optical-illumination module 12 is inserted through the optical-illumination channel outlet 4a 1 into the optical-illumination channel 4a of the proximal guiding connector 4. The optical-illumination module 12 is led in optical-illumination channel through following elements of the endoscope as: optical-illumination module channel 3e of the handle 3, optical-illumination channel 2c of the distal guiding connector 2, the optical-illumination channel 13a which is led in the insertion tube 1 up to the distal tip la. Upon insertion of the optical- illumination module 12 into the endoscope, the capsule 12a is detachably mounted to the distal tip la. After proper adjustment of the capsule 12a, before the closing of the two parts lal, la2 these are connected using the pins la2b and the corresponding pins sockets lali.

It is possible to use another detachable or inseparable connection to connect the part one lal to the part two la2 of the distal tip la. The inseparable connection can be realized by using pins la2b instead of hooks la2c. Application of an inseparable connection imposes that before open the part one lal and part two la2 of the distal tip la destroying of connecting element la3 after medical procedure by cutting it. This will prevent reuse of the endoscope and only re-use of the unmounted optical-illumination module, which minimizes the risk of contamination and infection through endoscopic components difficult to clean, which are in this solution designed to be used once.

Precise adjustment of the outer surface of the capsule 12a to the inner surface of the distal tip la makes a stable connection between them which is created after closing part one lal and part two la2 of the distal tip la. The oblique planes lalf adjusted to the oblique planes 12a4 the capsule 12a prevent from protrusion of the capsule beyond the forehead of the distal tip la.

As shown in Fig. 24, after the capsule 12a has been attached to the distal tip la, the elastic tube 12b is detachably mounted by pushing to the slot 5al into the optical-illumination channel 5a of the connecting channels bundle 5 and thus both elements have connection to the peripheral devices. After medical procedure the optical-illumination module 12 is unmounted and cleaned, disinfected or sterilized. Parts lal, la2 of the distal tip la are disengaged by pulling off the pins la2b from the pins sockets lali, which allows the parts lal, la2 of the distal tip la to be deflected and the capsule 12a disconnected from the distal tip la or by cutting the connecting element la3 and in the case of an inseparable connection - hooks. The optical-illumination module 12 is then extended from optical-illumination channel through the slot 5al of the connecting channel bundle 5 and pulled out of the proximal guiding connector 4 through the opening of the optical-illumination channel outlet 4al, after disconnecting the terminals from the peripheral devices. Example 3

a) flexible endoscope structure.

The endoscope is constructed as described in Example 1 except that three fences 12al are formed on the outer surface of the capsule 12a and over the entire length of the insertion tube 1 an optical- illumination channel 13a is created, on which outer contour the three fence pockets 13al are formed matching to fences 12al of the capsule 12a Fig. 25 and Fig. 26. In the distal tip la on the outline of the optical-illumination channel lala are also three fence pockets lalk matched to the fences 12al of the capsule 12a, as shown in the Fig. 27.

The fences 12al facilitate the insertion of the optical-illumination module through the optical- illumination channel in a suitable position relative to the longitudinal axis ,of the insertion tube 1. Thus, the capsule 12a is inserted into the optical-illumination channel lala of the distal tip la in a strictly specified position for precise adjusting the oblique surfaces of the capsule 12a4 to the oblique surfaces of the insertion tube lalf. Placing the optical-illumination module 12 only in a single, repeatable position allows for proper placement of the guides with the correct track selections, which ensures correct recording of the image during endoscopic surgery.

It is also possible to use fences in an endoscope constructed as described in Example 2 except that appropriate pockets are adjusted to the size and shape of the fences and are formed in the outline of the optical-illumination channel formed by the proximal guiding connector 4, the handle 3, the distal guiding connector 2, distal tip la, bending section lb, flexible part lc.

b) Mounting and unmounting the optical-illumination module.

As shown in Fig. 20, the optical-illumination module 12, after being inserted through the input of the optical-illumination module 11 into the distal guiding connector 2, is led through the optical- illumination channel 13a of the insertion tube 1 so that the capsule 12a is inserted into the optical- illumination channel lala of the distal tip la. The fences 12al improves the insertion of the optical- illumination module 12 so that it is not necessary to correct the positioning of the capsule 12a prior to closing both parts lal and la2 of the distal tip la. Parts lal and la2 of the distal tip la are connected by pins la2b and corresponding slots lali. After the medical procedure, the optical module 12 is removed. Parts lal na la2 of the distal tip la are disengaged by pulling of the pins la2b from the pins sockets lali, which allows the part one lal and part two la2 of the distal tip la to be tilted and the capsule 12a to be detached from the distal tip la. The optical-illumination module 12 is then pulled of backwards through the input of the optical-illumination module 11 of the distal end 2 previously having disconnected terminals from the peripheral devices.

Example 4

a) flexible endoscope structure.

The endoscope is constructed as described in the Example 1 except that the diameter of the capsule 12a in cross-section is greater than the diameter of the elastic tube 12b, and the distal tip la is provided with a hook la2c of which the length is adapted to the narrowing in the capsule 12a with the elastic tube 12b of the optical-illumination module 12, what is presented in the Fig. 25, 28, 29. b) Mounting and unmounting the optical-illumination module.

The optical illumination module 12 inserted into the endoscope and removed as described in Example 1 except that after inserting the capsule 12a into the optical-illumination channel lala of the distal tip la and closing the parts lal and la2, the hook la2c of the part two la2 of the distal tip la prevents the capsule 12a from moving back by supporting its rear wall which additionally stabilizes the capsule 12a in the endoscope.

Example 5

The endoscope is constructed as described in the Example 1 or 2 except that a variable angle mirror la4 is mounted to the distal tip la, what is presented in the Fig. 30. Because of that the conversion of the straightforward observation used in the optical-illumination module to side observation is possible. Tilting the mirror at a predetermined angle is possible by the spring la4c formed from a resilient metal flat bar, interacting with the angulation wire la4b. The angulation wire is driven by a dedicated channel through the insertion tube 1 and the distal end 2 to the handle 3. The pulling of the angulation wire la4b causes the horizontal arrangement of the mirror la4 and covering it with the cover la4a, which allows for straightforward observation. Smooth, cylindrical cover protects the patient from injury, facilitates the insertion of the endoscope and protects the mirror from damage. At the operator's choice, when the angulation wire la4b is released, the spring la4c of the mirror la4 sets up this mirror in predetermined angle and provides the ability to observe in side direction. This solution allows to be used in duodenoscopy and medical treatment on bile ducts, as well as observation and treatment in difficult-to-reach areas, such as the folds of the large intestine. It also allows to see straightforward or to the side during the same test or treatment. The optical- illumination module 12 is mounted and unmounted as described in Example 1 or 2.

References to the drawing

1 Insertion tube

la Distal tip

lal Part one

lala Optical-illumination channel

lalal Optical-illumination channel outlet

l al b Air channel outlet

laic Suction channel outlet

laid Water channel outlet for flushing lenses

laldl Nozzle

lale Water channel outlet for flushing an observation area

1 al f Oblique planes

lalg Angulation wire socket

lali Pin socket

lalj Suction channel junction

lalk Fence pockets

la2 Part two

la2a Optical-illumination channel outlet

la2b Pin

la2c Hook

la3 Connecting element

la4 Mirror

la4a Cover

la4b Angulation wire

la4c Spring

la4d Joint of at least one degree of freedom

lb Bending section

lc Flexible part lcl Polymeric coating

lc2 Metal mesh

lc3 Polymeric coating boundary

lc4 Metal mesh boundary

Id Bellow of flexible part

ldl Proximal end

ld2 Distal end

ld3 Flexible portion of bellow

ld3a Angulation wires pockets

ld3b Bellow ribs

ld3c Angulation wires channels

le Flange

Distal guiding connector

2a Bushing

2a 1 Snap-fit socket

2b Snap-fit

c An optical-illumination channel

2d Suction channel

2dl Distal joint

2d2 Proximal joint

e Angulation wires channels

2el Channel for angulation wire passing throughout suction channel 2f Proximal joint of channel for flushing lenses

2g Proximal flange

Handle

3 a Water channel for flushing an observation area

3b Water channel for flushing lenses

3 c Suction channel

3d Air channel

3e Optical-illumination module channel

3el Slot f Angulation wires channel

g Fence pockets

h Filter

i Snap-fit

j Inner wall of the handle

. Proximal guiding connector

4a Optical-illumination channel

4a 1 Optical-illumination channel outlet

4b Water channel junction

4c Suction channel junction

4d Air channel junction

Connecting channels bundle

5a Optical-illumination channel

5al Slot

5b Water channel

5c Suction channel

5d Air channel

Entrance of the biopsy channel

Plug

Channels valves

8a Water channel valve for flushing an observation area 8b Water channel valve for flushing lenses

c Suction channel valve

8d Air channel valve

Knobs for angulation wires control

9a Knob for control the angulation wires in horizontal 9b Knob for control the angulation wires in vertical Protector

Input of optical-illumination module

Optical-illumination module

2a Capsule 12al Fences

12a2 Lenses of optical fibers

12a2a Optical fiber

12a3 Lenses

12a4 Oblique planes

12a5 Temperature recorder

12a6 Micro camera

b Elastic tube

12bl Polymer coating

12b2 Braid

b3 Electrical wires

b4 Optical fiber bundles

Bunch of functional channels

13a Optical-illumination channel

13al Fence pockets

13b Air channel

13c Suction channel

13d Water channel for flushing lenses

3e Water channel for flushing an observation area3f Angulation wires channels

3g Pockets

Angulation wire