Medical devices and systems

Abstract

Several embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to medical visualization systems that comprise combinations of disposable and resuable components, such as catheters, functional handles, hubs, optical devices, etc. Other embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to features and aspects of an in-vivo visualization system that comprises an endoscope having a working channel through which a catheter having viewing capabilities is routed. The catheter may obtain viewing capabilities by being constructed as a vision catheter or by having a fiberscope or other viewing device selectively routed through one of its channels. The catheter is preferably of the steerable type so that the distal end of the catheter may be steered from its proximal end as it is advanced with the body. Some embodiments of the invention are directed to in-vivo visualization devices and systems comprising user-actuatable control features and steering devices. A suitable use for the in-vivo visualization system includes but is not limited to diagnosis and / or treatment of the duodenum, and particularly the biliary tree.

Description

technical field [0001] Embodiments of the invention generally relate to medical devices. Several embodiments generally relate to a medical catheter having steering and / or optical vision capabilities. Other embodiments relate generally to medical systems, such as in vivo vision systems, adapted to observe and / or implement diagnostic and therapeutic modalities within the body, such as within a biliary tree. Background technique [0002] A challenge in exploring and manipulating regions of the internal anatomy of the human body is to adequately visualize the region of interest. In minimally invasive surgery, that is, a small-diameter, slender instrument such as a catheter or endoscope is navigated through the patient's natural path to an area of ​​interest within that path or in an organ accessible via that path, Vision in particular can be troublesome during such procedures. [0003] Details about the anatomy can be discerned by direct observation of the anatomy using only ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Although the endoscope can directly view larger body pathways and enter adjacent ducts and lumens after the smaller catheter has been extended from the endoscope and entered the smaller duct or lumen, the ability to directly view prior to this limited, and physicians often rely on radiographic equipment to view the area of ​​interest or to perform blind-sighted detection

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