DUAL VIEW ENDOSCOPE

Abstract

An endoscope is provided to examine internal organs with front and rear views. The endoscope comprises a shaft extending from a distal end in a rearward direction along a longitudinal axis towards a proximal end, with the distal and proximal ends defining a hollow channel extended there-through. The endoscope further comprises a first lens positioned adjacent to the distal end and configured to receive a first image in a forward direction along the longitudinal axis, with the forward direction generally 180 degree from the rearward direction. The endoscope further comprises a rearview module positioned adjacent to the distal end. The rearview module comprises a second lens configured to be positioned adjacent to the distal end, and receive a second image in a target direction having a directional component in the rearward direction along the longitudinal axis, independently of the first lens receiving the first image in the forward direction.

Claims

1. An endoscope comprising: a shaft having a generally cylindrical distal end receivable in a hollow organ and a proximal end, the shaft extending from the distal end along a longitudinal axis towards the proximal end, the distal end and the proximal end defining a hollow channel extended therethrough; a first image-receiving module comprising a first image lens and a first illumination device positioned adjacent to the first image lens, the first image-receiving module positioned within the distal end of the shaft and configured to have a first field-of-vision when receiving a first image through the first image lens while the distal end of the shaft is being received in the hollow organ, the first field-of-vision including a view at a zero degree angle to the longitudinal axis in a forward direction pointing from the proximal end of the shaft to the distal end of the shaft, and a second image-receiving module comprising a second image lens and a second illumination device positioned adjacent to the second image lens, the second image-receiving module positioned within a diameter of the generally cylindrical distal end of the shaft in an undeployed position and extending at least partially outside of the diameter of the distal end in a deployed position, the second image-receiving module configured to have a second field-of-vision when receiving a second image through the second image lens while in the deployed position, the second field-of-vision including a view at a one hundred-eighty degree angle with respect to the zero degree angle view of the first field-of-vision; and an actuator configured to move the second image-receiving module from the undeployed position to the deployed position.

2. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the first illumination device and second illumination device comprise separate light sources.

3. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the deployed position comprises retro flexion of the second image-receiving module, and wherein the actuator comprises one or more cables.

4. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the second image-receiving module comprises a first end including a hinge proximate a terminal end of the distal end and a second end including the second image lens and the second illumination device, and wherein the actuator is configured to tilt the second end of the second image-receiving module outside of the diameter of the distal end to the deployed position.

5. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the second image-receiving module includes a support pillar, and wherein the actuator is configured to lift at least a portion of the second image-receiving module including the second image lens and the second illumination device on the support pillar outside of the diameter of the distal end to the deployed position.

6. The endoscope of claim 5, wherein support pillar comprises a spring.

7. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the second image-receiving module comprises a first end proximate a terminal end of the distal end and a second end including the second image lens and second illumination device, and wherein the actuator is configured to extend the second end of the second image-receiving module beyond the terminal end of the distal end to the deployed position.

8. The endoscope of claim 7, wherein the actuator is further configured to tilt the second end of the second image-receiving module.

9. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a plurality of cables configured to lift at least a portion of the second image-receiving module including the second image lens and the second illumination device outside of the diameter of the distal end to the deployed position.

10. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises an inflatable device, and wherein the actuator is configured to lift the second image lens and the second illumination device outside of the diameter of the distal end as the inflatable device is inflated to the deployed position.

11. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the actuator includes a rolling joint including a wheel configured to roll a wheel positioned in a groove to lift at least a portion of the second image-receiving module including the second image lens and the second illumination device outside of the diameter of the distal end to the deployed position.

12. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the second image-receiving module comprises a first end including a rotatable hinge proximate a terminal end of the distal end and a second end including the second image lens and the second illumination device, and wherein the actuator is configured to rotate at least a portion the second end of the second image-receiving module including the second image lens and the second illumination device outside of the diameter of the distal end to the deployed position.

13. The endoscope of claim 1, further comprising: a main air/water port, the main air/water port opening to the hollow channel and located adjacent to the distal end of the shaft, the main air/water channel configured to channel at least one of a water jet and an air stream out of the main air/water port so that the main air/water channel is used to insufflate air in the hollow organ and squirt water or blow air at the first image lens; and a periphery air/water channel having a periphery air/water port, the periphery air/water port located proximate to the second image-receiving module, the periphery air/water channel configured to channel at least one of a water jet and an air stream out of the periphery air/water port so that the channeled at least one of the water jet and the air stream is used to clean at least the second image lens.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 shows a view of a conventional endoscope.

[0017] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the distal end, bending section and insertion tube of a conventional endoscope.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a side view of a conventional endoscope displaying the field of vision of a conventional endoscope.

[0019] FIG. 4A shows a conventional endoscope inside a colon. It shows mucosal folds of the colon and illustrates that visualization of the area behind mucosal folds is obstructed by the front of the mucosal folds during examination with a conventional endoscope.

[0020] FIG. 4B shows a conventional endoscope inside a colon in a retroflexed position. It displays how retro flexion enables visualization of area behind a mucosal fold.

[0021] FIG. 5 shows side view of an endoscope with the ‘rear view module’ according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6 shows side view of the endoscope in FIG. 5 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0023] FIG. 7 shows side view of an endoscope with the ‘rear view module’ according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 8 shows side view of the endoscope in FIG. 7 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0025] FIG. 9 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 9 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0027] FIG. 11 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 12 shows side view of the endoscope in FIG. 11 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0029] FIG. 13 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIGS. 14-16 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 13 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0031] FIG. 17 shows side view of a ‘rear view module’ according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIGS. 18 & 19 shows side view of the endoscope in FIG. 17 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0033] FIG. 20 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 21 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 20 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0035] FIG. 22 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 23 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 22 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0037] FIG. 24A shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24B shows a cross section view of an exemplary biplanar rolling joint that is used to attach a proximal face of the rear view module to the distal end of the endo scope in FIG. 24A.

[0038] FIG. 25 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 24A wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0039] FIG. 26 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 27 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 26 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0041] FIG. 28 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 29 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 28 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

[0043] FIG. 30 shows side view of an endoscope with a ‘rear view module’ according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 31 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 30 wherein the ‘rear view module’ is deployed for rear view.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0045] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. The following general description applies to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0046] The present invention comprises of a rear view module. It is a solid structure that can be rectangular, square, tubular, discoid or of any other shape. It is attached to a conventional endoscope by a suitable mechanical articulation such as ball socket joint, hinge joint, biplanar rolling joint etc. The rear view module consists of a rear image lens to obtain a rear view. The rear image lens is attached to an image processor by an electric cable. This cable transmits the image obtained by the rear image lens to the image processor. After being processed, the image is then viewed on a computer monitor or any other display unit.

[0047] The rear view module also contains a rear illumination bulb. The rear illumination bulb is connected to a power source by a cable. The rear illumination bulb uses this light to illuminate the area under view of the rear image lens. The rear image lens and the rear illumination bulb are typically activated upon deployment of the rear view module. The rear view module is deployed using an actuator.

[0048] A rear instrument channel is provided in the present invention. It is placed proximal to the rear view module. This channel is connected to the main instrument channel and the passage is controlled by a control valve. Typically, deployment of the rear view module opens the passage to the rear instrument channel. The rear instrument channel is used to pass surgical instruments to do various surgical procedures in areas under view of the rear image lens. It is also used to apply suction in the area under view of the rear image lens.

[0049] A rear air/water channel is provided in the present invention. It is placed proximal to the rear view module. The rear air/water channel is connected to the air/water channel of the main endoscope and the passage is controlled by a valve. Typically, deployment of the rear view module opens the passage to the rear air/water channel. The rear air/water channel is used to insufflate air in the direction of view of the rear image lens for better distension and visualization. The air/water channel is also used to squirt water or air at the rear image lens and the rear illumination bulb. This enables cleaning of the rear image lens and the rear illumination bulb while still inside a hollow body organ.

[0050] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an embodiment of a conventional endoscope. It has a handle (4) from which extends a flexible shaft (1), which is inserted into a hollow organ to be inspected. The shaft consists of a proximal section (10), insertion tube (6), bending section (12) and a stiff section (13). The shaft terminates in the distal end (14), which typically houses one image lens (20), one to two illumination bulbs (21), air/water nozzle (22) and an instrument channel outlet (23). Light is transmitted from a light source through the shaft via an electric cable (26) to the illumination bulb (21). The illumination bulb illuminates the area to be examined. The image lens (20) captures images of the illuminated area. The image is then transmitted through a fiber optic cable (27) and viewed through an eyepiece (2) attached to the handle of the endoscope. Alternatively, the image is converted to a video signal and is then transmitted to an image processor by an electrical cable. The image is processed and displayed on a display unit like a computer monitor (not shown). The handle (4) of the endoscope has a grip (16) and an extension arm (8) that attaches the endoscope to a light source and an image processor.

[0051] To enable the endoscope to maneuver through the turns of a hollow organ the shaft is flexible and incorporates a multitude of wires that attach the bending portion (12) with actuators (18). Typically, there are two pairs of such wires passing within the shaft, one pair for flexing the bending portion in one plane and the other pair for flexing it in an orthogonal plane. Tension is applied to these wires using the actuators (18) to move the bending portion (12) in various directions.

[0052] It is also usual to provide two channels extending between the handle and the distal end of the shaft, an air/water channel (24) and an instrument channel (25). The air/water channel (24) is used to insufflate air in a hollow organ to expand it for proper visualization. The air/water channel is connected proximally to an air/water pump (not shown) and to distally to the air/water nozzle (22). It is controlled by an air/water control valve (5) located on the handle (4). The image lens (20) and the illumination bulb (21) are frequently smeared with blood, stool or other body fluids while in a hollow organ. In such a situation, the air/water channel (24) is used to squirt water or blow air at the image lens (20) and/or illumination bulb (21) in order to clean them while still inside a hollow organ. The instrument channel (25) has an instrument channel inlet (7) proximally and an instrument channel outlet (23) distally. It is used to pass surgical instruments to do various surgical procedures. It is also used to apply suction using the suction control valve (3) located on the handle (4). This suction is useful in removing fluids, air and other materials from within a hollow organ during examination.

[0053] FIG. 3 illustrates the narrow field of vision (31) of about 120 degrees of a conventional endoscope (1). It also shows that conventional endoscopes are only forward viewing (32).

[0054] FIG. 4A shows side view of an endoscope (1) inside colon (41). The colon has mucosal folds (42). The front side of a mucosal fold blocks the view of the areas behind it during a typical endoscopic examination. These areas form the ‘blind spots’ (43) of a conventional endoscope that lie outside of the forward field of vision (32).

[0055] FIG. 4B shows side view of the retro flexion maneuver (44) of a conventional endoscope (1) inside colon (41). During this maneuver, the endoscope is advanced beyond the mucosal fold (42) to be examined. The bending portion of the endoscope is then bent to 180 degrees to visualize the rear side of a mucosal fold (43) during forward examination, the view of which is obstructed by its front side during a forward examination.

[0056] FIG. 5 shows side view of a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a long thin tubular structure encased in a sheath. It is placed along the periphery of a conventional endoscope. In the preferred embodiment, the rear view module (51) extends through the entire length of the endoscope but it may be shorter. The rear view module (51) has a distal end (50), stiff section, bending section and proximal section similar to an endoscope. In the preferred embodiment, the distal end (50), stiff section, bending section and proximal section of the rear view module (51) is in sync with the distal end (14), stiff section, bending section and proximal section of a conventional endoscope. The distal end (50) of the rear view module has a rear image lens (52) and a rear illumination bulb (53). The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor (not shown) and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source (not shown) by electrical cables (54, 55) that run within the rear view module (51). Two pairs of cables within the rear view module attach the bending section of the rear view module to a rear view module actuator. Tension on these cables moves the bending section of the rear view module in vertical and horizontal planes.

[0057] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the bending section of the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (59) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0058] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0059] According to another aspect of the preferred embodiment, there can be more than one rear view module.

[0060] FIG. 6 shows the preferred embodiment in FIG. 5 where the rear view module (51) is retro flexed (60) using the rear view module actuator. With this maneuver, the rear image lens (52) faces backward and provides a rear view. The rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens of the endoscope (20) provides a front view at the same time when the rear image lens (52) is providing a rear view. However, the operator may choose to have only one view at a given time. Because the rear view module is thin, retro flexion can be achieved with a small radius of curvature and thus can be performed even inside narrow hollow organs.

[0061] FIG. 7 shows side view of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid rectangular block with a proximal end (71) and a distal end (50). It is located within the stiff section of the endoscope. The rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) are located on the proximal end (71) of the rear view module. The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source by electric cables (54, 55). The distal end (50) of the rear view module is attached to the distal end (14) of the endoscope by a hinge joint or any other suitable mechanical articulation. The distal end (50) of the rear view module is connected to a rear view module actuator by a pair of cables (not shown). Tension on these cables moves the rear view module away from and towards the shaft of the endoscope as shown in FIG. 8.

[0062] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0063] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 7 where the rear view module (51) has been deployed by lifting its proximal end (71) away from the shaft using the rear view module actuator. When fully deployed, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward. The image captured by the rear image lens (52) is transmitted to an image processor. The rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens (20) is able to give a forward view at the same time as the rear image lens is giving a rear view. Forward and rear view can thus be obtained simultaneously if so desired by the operator. A major advantage of this embodiment is that it makes rear view possible requiring only minimal additional space. This is of particular advantage when examining narrow body cavities.

[0065] FIG. 9 shows side view of a third preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid rectangular block with a proximal (71) and distal (50) end. It is located within the stiff section of the endoscope. The rear image lens (52) and the retro illumination bulb (53) are placed on the proximal end (71) of the rear view module. The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) in connected to a power source by electric cables (54, 55). The rear view module rests on a support pillar/spring (91). The support pillar/spring can be extended and retracted perpendicular to the shaft of the endoscope. It is attached to a rear view module actuator by cables.

[0066] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0067] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0068] FIG. 10 shows the endoscope in FIG. 9 where it has been deployed by moving the support pillar/spring (91) vertically from the shaft using the rear view module actuator. In this position, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward. The rear image lens (52) provides a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under the view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens (20) is able to provide a forward view at the same time when the rear image lens (52) is providing a rear view. This enables simultaneous forward and rear view if so chosen by the operator. A major advantage of this embodiment is that it provides a straight rear view that is desirable for certain surgical procedures.

[0069] FIG. 11 shows a side view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is made of two sub modules, the rear image module (111) and the rear illumination module (110). The sub modules are small rectangular solid structures. They are placed within the stiff section of the endoscope. The retro image module contains the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination module contains the rear illumination bulb (53). The rear image lens (52) is placed on the proximal end (115) of the rear image module (110) and the rear illumination bulb (53) is placed on the proximal end (113) of the retro illumination module (111). The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor by an electric cable (54) and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source by an electric cable (55).

[0070] In the preferred embodiment, the rear image module (111) and the rear illumination module (110) are embedded within the stiff section of the endoscope. The distal end (114) of the rear image module and the distal end (112) of the rear illumination module are attached to the shaft of the endoscope by a hinge joint or any other suitable mechanical articulation. The distal ends of the rear image module and of the rear illumination module (112, 114) are also connected to a pair of rear view module actuators by cables. Tension on these cables moves the rear image module (111) and rear illumination module (110) away from and towards the shaft as shown in FIG. 12. The rear image module (111) and the rear illumination module (110) are placed at a suitable distance from each other.

[0071] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0072] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0073] According to another aspect of the preferred embodiment the relative positions of the rear illumination module and the rear image module can be interchanged. According to another aspect of the preferred embodiment more than one rear illumination module and/or rear image module can be present.

[0074] FIG. 12 is a side view of the endoscope in FIG. 11 where the retro image module (111) and the retro illumination module (110) have been deployed by moving their proximal ends (113,115) away from the shaft using the rear view module actuators. In this position the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward and provide a rear view. The main image lens (20) is able to provide a front view at the same time when the rear image lens is providing a rear view thus enabling a simultaneous front and rear view. A major advantage of the preferred embodiment is that the rear illumination module (110) can be controlled independent of the rear image module (111). This may be desirable in certain situations.

[0075] FIG. 13 shows a side view of a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid rectangular block with a proximal (131) and distal ends (132). It is located within the stiff section of the endoscope. It contains a rear image lens (52) and a rear illumination bulb (53) placed on the proximal end (131) of the rear view module. The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor by an electric cable (54). The rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to the power source by an electric cable (55). The rear view module (51) rests on a support arm (130) within the stiff section of the endoscope. The support arm (130) also serves as an extension arm that can be extended, retracted and rotated. The distal end (132) of the rear view module is attached to the support arm (130) by a hinge joint or any other suitable mechanical articulation. It is also connected to a rear view module actuator by cables. Tension on these cables moves the rear view module (51) away from and towards the support arm (130).

[0076] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). It is used to pass surgical instruments to do various surgical procedures in areas under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52). The main air/water channel (24) is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53).

[0077] In the preferred embodiment, the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main instrument channel (25). However, it may exist independently. Passage to the rear instrument channel (59) from the main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) will automatically open the passage to the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageway can be controlled independently.

[0078] In the preferred embodiment, the rear view module is served by the main air/water channel (24). However a rear air/water channel may be provided. According to another aspect of the preferred embodiment, an additional forward image lens and an additional forward illumination bulb can be present at the distal end (132) of the rear view module. This will widen the forward field of vision. According to another aspect of the present invention, more than one rear view module can be present.

[0079] FIG. 14-16 shows side view of the endoscope in FIG. 13 where the rear view module (51) has been deployed for rear view. The support arm (130) is extended forward (140) to an appropriate distance from the distal end (14) of the endoscope as shown in FIG. 14. The rear image lens (52) faces backward in this position and gives a rear view. The rear illumination bulb (53) faces backward and illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens (20) is able to give a front view at the same time as the rear image lens (52) is giving a rear view, thus enabling simultaneous front and rear views. The rear view module (51) can be lifted from (150) and retracted towards the support arm (130) using the rear view module actuator as shown in FIG. 15. In addition, the support arm can be rotated (160) as shown in FIG. 16. This increases the rear field of vision.

[0080] FIG. 17 shows side view of a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a long and thin tubular structure encased in a sheath. It has a shaft that comprises of a distal end (170), stiff section, bending section and proximal section. The shaft is attached proximally to a handle (not shown). The handle has an extension that connects the rear view module (51) to an image processor and a power source. Rear image lens (52) and rear illumination bulb (53) are placed on the distal end (170) of the rear view module (51). The rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) are connected to an image processor and a light source respectively by electrical cables (54, 55). The bending section of the rear view module is connected to a rear view module actuator by cables. Tension on these cables moves the bending section in vertical and horizontal planes. This entire assembly is thin enough to pass through the main instrument channel (25) of the endoscope.

[0081] The rear view module (51) is passed through the instrument channel (25) beyond the distal end (14) of the endoscope as shown in FIG. 18. Backward view is obtained by retro flexing (190) the bending portion of the rear view module (51) as shown in FIG. 19. In this position, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward. The rear image lens (52) gives a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under the view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens (20) is able to give a forward view at the same time as the rear image lens (52) is giving a rear view. Simultaneous forward and rear view can thus be obtained if desired by the operator. The rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) is serviced by the main air/water channel (24).

[0082] In a variation of the preferred embodiment, it can have a rear air/water channel and/or a rear instrument channel. In another variation to the preferred embodiment, the rear view module (51) can be passed through the rear instrument channel if one is present. In another variation of the preferred embodiment, the rear view module is embedded within the shaft of the endoscope. It is extended beyond the distal end of the endoscope and then retro flexed/bent to give a rear view.

[0083] FIG. 20 shows side view of a seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a hollow tubular structure with a proximal end (201) and a distal end (202). It is placed within the peripheral part of the stiff section of the endoscope, parallel to its long axis. The rear view module (51) is connected along its length to the stiff section of the endoscope by a hinge joint or any other suitable mechanical articulation. The rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) are placed on the proximal end (201) of the rear view module. The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source by electric cables (54, 55). Two pairs of cables one on the outside and the other on the inside, connect the rear view module to an actuator along its length. Tension on these cables opens and closes the module like the lid of a box (203) as shown in FIG. 21. When opened, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward. The rear image lens (52) gives a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens (20) of the endoscope is able to give a forward view at the same time as the rear image lens (52) is giving a rear view. Hence, simultaneous forward and rear view is possible if the operator so desires.

[0084] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0085] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0086] FIG. 22 shows side view of an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) consists of an inflatable balloon (220) or any other inflatable device that is attached to the stiff section of the endoscope. The balloon is connected to an air pump by a thin tube placed within the shaft of the endoscope (not shown). When inflated, the balloon (220) has a proximal face (221) and a distal face (222) as shown in FIG. 23. The proximal face (221) of the balloon contains the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). Electric cables (54, 55) connect the rear image lens (52) to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) to a power source.

[0087] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0088] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0089] Inflating the balloon (220) deploys the rear view module as shown in FIG. 23. When the balloon is fully inflated, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backwards. The rear image lens (52) gives a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The main image lens (20) of the endoscope is able to give a forward view at the same time as the rear image lens (52) is giving a rear view. Hence, simultaneous forward and rear view is possible if the operator desires so.

[0090] In a variation to the present embodiment, there can be an additional forward image lens and an additional forward illumination bulb placed on the distal face (222) of the balloon. This will widen the forward field of vision when the balloon (220) is inflated.

[0091] FIG. 24A shows side view of a ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid disc shaped structure that has a proximal face (901) and distal face (902). It is mounted on the distal end (14) of the endoscope. It comprises of a rear image lens (52) and a rear illumination bulb (53) that is placed on the proximal face (901). The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source by electrical cables (54, 55). In the preferred embodiment, the rear view module (51) is placed towards the periphery of the distal end (14) of the endoscope but it may be placed at anywhere on the distal end (14). The proximal face (901) of the rear view module is attached to the distal end (14) of the endoscope by a biplanar rolling joint (904) as shown in FIG. 24B. It allows rolling motion of the rear view module in both vertical and horizontal planes from the distal end (14). Alternatively, the rear view module may be attached using any other suitable mechanical articulation. As shown in FIG. 24B, a biplanar rolling joint (904) consists of two grooves (907,908) placed orthogonally to each other. A small wheel (906) is placed within the groove. The outer part of this wheel is movable and the inner part is fixed. The rear view module (51) is attached to the fixed inner part. The rear view module is moved by rotating the wheel (906) along the grooves (907, 908).

[0092] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0093] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0094] The rear view module (51) is deployed by rolling it vertically (903) from the distal end of the endoscope (14), as shown in FIG. 25. Alternatively the rear view module can be deployed by rolling it horizontally from the distal end (14). The extent of the roll is enough to move the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) away from the distal end of the endoscope (14). In this position, the rear image lens (52) gives a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The rear view module (51) can also be rotated to widen the rear field of view. This may cause some distortion of the image which can be corrected by modifying the software of the image processor. The main image lens (20) of the endoscope is able to give a forward view at the same time as the rear image lens (52) is giving a rear view. Hence, simultaneous forward and rear view is possible if so desired by the operator.

[0095] In a variation to the preferred embodiment the rear view module may contain an additional forward image lens and an additional forward illumination bulb on its distal face (902). This will widen the forward field of vision.

[0096] FIG. 26 shows side view of a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid discoid structure that is mounted on the distal end of the endoscope (14). It has a proximal face (101) and a distal face (102). The rear view module (51) is attached to the distal end of the endoscope (14) by a hinge joint (103) or any other suitable mechanical articulation. The rear view module (51) has a rear image lens (52) and a rear illumination bulb (53) that is mounted on its distal face (102) of the module. The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source by electrical cables (54, 55). In resting position, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb face forward and augment the main image lens (20) and the main illumination bulb (21) to widen the forward field of view. In the preferred embodiment, the rear view module (51) is placed at the periphery of the distal end of the endoscope (14) but it can be placed anywhere. The rear view module (51) is connected to a rear view module actuator by cables. Tension on these cables flips the rear view module (51) clockwise and anticlockwise vertically from the distal end of the endoscope (14). Alternatively, the rear view module can be flipped in a horizontal plane.

[0097] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0098] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0099] FIG. 27 shows the endoscope on FIG. 26 where the rear view module (51) has been deployed by flipping it vertically (104) from the distal end of the endoscope (14) to 180 degrees. In this position, the rear image lens (52) faces backward and gives a rear view. The rear illumination bulb (53) faces backward and illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). The rear view module (51) can also be rotated in different directions to widen the rear field of vision. The main image lens (20) of the endoscope is able to give a forward view at the same time as the rear image lens (52) is giving a rear view. Hence, simultaneous forward and rear view is possible if the operator so desires.

[0100] In a variation to the preferred embodiment, the rear view module (51) may also contain an additional forward image lens and an additional forward illumination bulb on its proximal face (101). This will increase the forward field of vision when the rear view module is deployed (104) with its proximal face (101) facing forward.

[0101] FIG. 28 shows side view of an eleventh preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid discoid structure that is placed in front of the distal end (14) of the endoscope. The periphery of the rear view module (51) is attached to the distal end (14) of the endoscope by a hinge joint (285) or any other suitable mechanical articulation. It has a proximal face (281) and a distal face (282). The rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) are placed on the distal face (282) of the rear view module. The rear image lens (52) is connected to an image processor and the rear illumination bulb (53) is connected to a power source by electric cables (54, 55). In resting position, the rear view module (51) covers the distal end of the endoscope (14) and faces forward. In this position, the rear image lens (52) gives a forward view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area in front of the endoscope. In the preferred embodiment, the diameter of the rear view module (51) is the same as that of the distal end of the endoscope (14). The air/water channel (24) and the instrument channel (25) of the endoscope extend into the rear view module (283,284). The proximal and distal face of the rear view module (281, 282) is connected to a rear view module actuator by cables. Tension on these cables flips the rear view module (51) clockwise and anti clockwise vertically from the distal end of the endoscope (14) as shown in FIG. 29. Alternatively, the rear view module can be flipped horizontally.

[0102] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0103] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0104] FIG. 29 shows the endoscope in FIG. 28 where the rear view module (51) has been deployed by flipping it vertically from the distal end of the endoscope to 180 degrees (286) using the rear view module actuator. In this position, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward. The rear image lens (52) gives a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). Further, the rear view module (51) can be rotated in this position to increase the rear field of view. Upon deployment, the rear view module (51) moves away from the front of the distal end (14) of the endoscope. It enables the main image lens (20) to give a forward view and the main illumination bulb (21) to illuminate the area in front of the distal end of the endoscope. This makes it possible to have simultaneous forward and rear view if so desired by the operator.

[0105] In a variation to the preferred embodiment, the rear view module contains an additional forward image lens and an additional forward illumination bulb on its proximal face (281). When the rear view module is deployed, the proximal face (281) with the additional forward image lens and additional illumination bulb faces forward and augments the main image lens (20) and the main illumination bulb (21. This widens the forward field of vision when the rear view module is deployed.

[0106] FIG. 30 shows side view of a twelfth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rear view module (51) is a solid discoid structure that is placed in front of the distal end of the endoscope (14). It has a proximal face (301) and a distal face (302). The rear view module comprises of a rear image lens (52) connected to an image processor and a rear illumination bulb (53) connected to a power source by electric cables (54, 55). The rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) are placed on the proximal face (301) of the rear view module (51). In addition, the rear view module (51) has an additional image lens (303) and an additional illumination bulb (304) that is placed on its distal face (302). In the preferred embodiment, the diameter of the rear view module (51) is the same as that of the distal end of the endoscope (14). The main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) of the endoscope extend into the rear view module (305, 306). The rear view module (51) is attached to the distal end of the endoscope (14) by a biplanar rolling joint as shown in FIG. 24B. This allows rolling motion of the rear view module (51) both vertically and horizontally to the distal end of the endoscope (14). It may also be attached by any other suitable mechanical articulation. In resting position, the rear view module (51) covers the main image lens (20) and the main illumination bulb (21) of the endoscope. In this position, the additional image lens (303) and the additional illumination bulb (304) faces forward and gives a forward view and illuminates the area in front of the endoscope.

[0107] In the preferred embodiment, there is a rear air/water channel (58) with a rear air/water nozzle (56) and rear instrument channel (59) with a rear instrument channel outlet (57) located proximal to the rear view module (51). The rear air/water channel (58) provides a jet of water and a stream of air that is used to clean the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53). It is also used to insufflate air in the field of vision of the rear image lens (52) for better distension and visualization. Surgical instruments are passed through the rear instrument channel (25) to do various surgical procedures in the area under view of the rear image lens (52). It is also used to direct suction to the area under the view of the rear image lens (52).

[0108] In the preferred embodiment, the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59) is connected to the main air/water channel (24) and the main instrument channel (25) respectively. However, these may exist independently. Passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and rear instrument channel (59) from the main air/water channel (24) and main instrument channel (25) is controlled by a valve or any other suitable mechanical device. Typically, deployment of the rear view module (51) automatically opens the passage to the rear air/water channel (58) and the rear instrument channel (59). Alternatively, the passageways can be controlled independently.

[0109] FIG. 31 shows the endoscope in the embodiment in FIG. 30 where the rear view module (51) has been deployed by sliding it vertically (307) from the distal end of the endoscope (14). Upon deployment, the rear image lens (52) and the rear illumination bulb (53) face backward. The rear image lens (52) gives a rear view and the rear illumination bulb (53) illuminates the area under view of the rear image lens (52). Further, the rear view module (51) can be rotated to increase the field of rear view. The rear view module (51) also moves away from front of the distal end of the endoscope (14) upon deployment. The main image lens (20) is then able to give a forward view and the main illumination bulb (21) is able to illuminate the area in front of the endoscope. Hence, the preferred embodiment provides simultaneous forward and rear view if so desired by the operator. The additional image lens (303) and the additional illumination bulb (304) augment the main image lens (20) and the main illumination bulb (21) and widen the forward field of vision when the rear view module (51) is deployed.

[0110] Any person/persons familiar with prior art will understand that modifications or changes to the present invention can be made without compromising its principles. In one variation of the present invention, the relative positions of the rear view module, rear air/water channel and the rear instrument channel may be changed. In another variation of the present invention, more than one rear view module, rear instrument channel and rear air/water channel can be present. According to another variation of the present invention, the rear view module, rear instrument channel and the rear air/water channel can be placed anywhere on the endoscope. According to yet another variation of the present invention, the shape, composition and configuration of the rear view module can be modified or changed without compromising the basic principles of the present invention. According to another variation of the present invention, the method of deployment of the rear view module can be modified without compromising the basic principles of the present invention. According to yet another variation of the present invention more than one rear image lens and/or more than one rear illumination bulb can be present. The above examples are only illustrative and by no means all inclusive.