ENDOSCOPIC DELIVERY OF MEDICAL DEVICES
The invention is directed to an endoscopic assembly having an endoscope, particularly a flexible hysteroscope and an outer sheath disposed about a length of the shaft of the hysteroscope which has an expandable member such as an inflatable balloon for sealing the assembly within a body lumen or cavity. Specifically, the endoscope assembly is configured for delivery of an occlusive contraceptive member to the patient's fallopian tube. The invention is also directed to an endoscope having a driving member for movement of a medical device within the working lumen of an endoscope. In one embodiment the driving member is a friction wheel which engages an elongated medical device disposed within the working channel of the endoscope to effect longitudinal movement of the medical device.
1 . An endoscope comprising:
an elongate shaft;
a working channel extending through at least a portion of the elongated shaft;
a loading port in a proximal portion of the elongated shaft for loading an elongated medical device within the working channel; and
a device driver for contacting and longitudinally moving the elongated medical device loaded within the working channel.
2 . The endoscope of claim 1 , wherein the loading port is configured to receive a cassette having a coiled delivery catheter disposed therein and a length of the delivery catheter extending out of the cassette and disposed within the working channel.
3 . The endoscope of claim 2 , wherein the coiled delivery catheter is spring biased to unwind and has a releasable restraining element to prevent the coiled delivery catheter from unwinding,
4 . The endoscope of claim 3 , wherein a driving element is provided that engages the length of the delivery catheter extending out of the cassette and acts to urge the catheter down the working channel.
5 . The endoscope of claim 4 , wherein the driving element has a crank to urge the delivery catheter down the working channel.
6 . The endoscope of claim 4 , wherein the driving element includes a friction wheel.
7 . The endoscope of claim 6 , wherein the driving element is finger operable.