An embodiment of the invention is an endoscopy system with newly designed docking block, brake control, wire tension adjustment, bending angle sensor, memory chip data storage, valve control, imaging lens cleaning, optimized lumen arrangement and distal position sensor. The docking block can have a one-touch retaining mechanism. Braking control can be accessed by the endoscopist at the hand grip or knobs. Wire tension can be relaxed or tightened in response to surgeon or endoscopist control. Bending angle sensors can protect surgical instruments. Memory chip can store usage data of the endoscope. Multiple valves can have priority control. Lenses can be cleaned with one touch of a button. Lumens can be arranged to maximize imaging and lighting angles. Position markers accompanied with sensors can position the distal end of the endoscope automatically in the optimal position.

A system for extending the visual capabilities and working channel of a bronchoscope including a probe having optic and/or tracking capabilities at a distal tip thereof and capable of being advanced through the working channel of a standard bronchoscope. The probe also includes a working channel through which various diagnostic and treatment tools may be advanced.

Exemplary embodiments of devices and method for affecting at least one anatomical tissue can be provided. A configuration can be provided that includes a structure which is expandable (i) having and/or (ii) forming at least one opening or a working space through which the anatomical tissue(s) is placed in the structure. For example, the structure, prior to being expanding, can have at least one partially rigid portion. In addition, or as an alternative, upon a partial or complete expansion thereof, the structure can be controllable to have a plurality of shapes. Further, the structure can be controllable to provide the working space with multiple shapes and/or multiple sizes.

Improved methods and devices for performing an endoscopic surgery are provided. Systems are taught for operatively treating gastrointestinal disorders endoscopically in a stable, yet dynamic operative environment, and in a minimally-invasive manner. Such systems include, for example, an endoscopic surgical suite. The surgical suite can have a reversibly-expandable retractor that expands to provide a stable, operative environment within a subject. The expansion can be asymmetric around a stabilizer subsystem to maximize space for a tool and an endoscope to each be maneuvered independently to visualize a target tissue and treat the target tissue from outside the patient in a minimally invasive manner.

A medical assembly comprising a first imaging device comprising a first handle and a first shaft extending distally from the first handle, a second imaging device comprising a second handle and a second shaft extending distally from the second handle, and an imaging unit, wherein the first imaging device further comprises a first imager at a distal end of the first shaft, a first cable extending from the first handle for connection to the imaging unit, and a first connector, wherein the second imaging device further comprises a second imager at a distal end of the second shaft and a second connector, and wherein the first connector and the second connector are configured to connect, thereby transmitting imaging data from the second imager to the imaging unit via the first cable.

Several embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to medical visualization systems that comprise combinations of disposable and reusable 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. 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.

A system for extending the visual capabilities and working channel of a bronchoscope including a probe having optic and/or tracking capabilities at a distal tip thereof and capable of being advanced through the working channel of a standard bronchoscope. The probe also includes a working channel through which various diagnostic and treatment tools may be advanced.

A catheter for imaging and treating a selected tissue and method of use is provided. Imaging, and treatment assemblies may be co-located at a distal end of a single catheter. The imaging assembly may include at least a portion of a confocal microscope. The treatment assembly may include at least a portion of the imaging assembly. A method of treating a selected tissue is also provided. The method may be performed using a single catheter. The imaging and treatment steps of the method may be performed simultaneously.

Several embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to medical visualization systems that comprise combinations of disposable and reusable 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. 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.

A medical device may comprise a distal tip having a viewing element, a lighting element, and at least one feature configured to removably couple the distal tip to a shaft. The medical device may also comprise a working channel coupled to the distal tip and defining a central lumen configured to receive a tool. A wall of the working channel may define at least one additional lumen. The working channel may be configured to be removably inserted into the shaft. The medical device may also comprise at least one of a wire, a cable, or a conduit passing through the at least one additional lumen.