Endoscope accessory with locking elements
A medical device comprising an endoscope accessory for attachment to the working end of an endoscope. The coupler device provides a flexible working channel extension from the endoscope so that instruments can exit the endoscope at various angles. The device also provides a protective cover to reduce the ingress of debris, fluid, bacteria, or other unwanted matter from the working end of the endoscope which could lead to infection.
1. A device for use with an endoscope having a working channel, the device comprising:
a main body comprising a visualization section for allowing viewing of tissue by the endoscope and a proximal end configured for attachment to a distal end portion of the endoscope;
a working channel extension within the main body, the working channel extension having an open distal end and a proximal end that is configured for attachment to the working channel of the endoscope; and
a locking element for affixing an angle of exit of an instrument passing through the working channel extension.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the device is configured to compress a portion of the working channel extension against the instrument to secure the instrument in place within the working channel extension.
3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the open distal end is oriented at a transverse angle relative to the endoscope working channel, the device being configured to secure the instrument in position at said transverse angle.
4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the main body of the device further includes an elevator of an endoscope therein for angular adjustment of the working channel extension.
5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the elevator is configured to compress a portion of the working channel extension upon said angular adjustment to secure the instrument in position.
6. The device of claim 1 further comprising a mechanism for articulating an instrument passing through the working channel extension.
7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the working channel extension is flexible and capable of angular adjustment by actuation of the endoscope.
8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the locking element is positioned to engage a portion of the working channel extension, wherein the working channel extension is configured to partially compress upon engagement with the locking element.
9. The device of claim 1 , wherein the working channel extension is configured to engage the locking element upon angular adjustment of the working channel extension.
10. The device of claim 1 , wherein the locking element is positioned on an outer surface of the main body.
11. The device of claim 1 , wherein the endoscope comprises a side-viewing scope.
12. The device of claim 1 , wherein the instrument comprises a guidewire.
13. The device of claim 1 , wherein the endoscope includes an elevator for angular adjustment of the working channel extension.
14. The device of claim 1 , wherein the endoscope includes a cable for angular adjustment of the working channel extension.