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Method and apparatus for extending a tube

  • US 9,661,992 B2
  • Filed: 04/04/2013
  • Issued: 05/30/2017
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/28/2010
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. An endoscopic apparatus reversibly insertable into a curved lumen of a patient, said apparatus comprising:

  • a flexible sleeve having a length, a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis;

    said distal end of said flexible sleeve comprising;

    a folded sleeve portion having a length Lfold;

    a compact folded portion enclosed within said folded sleeve portion such that a single topologically cylindrical sleeve is provided;

    said compact folded portion comprising a spiral structure in which at least a part of said flexible sleeve portion has been rolled from said distal end about an axis of rotation and rotated so that said axis of rotation is parallel to said longitudinal axis, such that when said sleeve is inflated by fluid, said compact folded portion partially unfolds and everts radially from said folded sleeve portion; and

    an unfolded sleeve portion connecting said compact folded portion to said folded sleeve portion;

    said unfolded sleeve portion having a length Lunfold that increases as at least a portion of said compact folded portion unfolds and everts when said sleeve is inflated by fluid;

    wherein;

    when in use, said folded sleeve portion extends distally when at least a portion of said compact folded portion unfolds and everts;

    said eversion is provided so as to increase said unfolded sleeve portion length Lunfold and such that when in use said folded sleeve portion self-navigates within said curved lumen when said sleeve is inflated by fluid; and

    said unfolded sleeve portion substantially stays stationary when said sleeve is inflated by fluid.

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