| 摘要 |
<p>In order to allow the consistent and simple removal of a highly flexible sheath (13) from an endoscope (1) after a procedure has been completed, a sheath removal device (30) is provided. The sheath removal device (30) includes a relatively rigid tube (32) that fits over the sheath (13) with the endoscope shaft (3) therein. The tube (13) includes a locking mechanism (34) at its distal end which engages the distal tip (17) of the sheath (13). An operator (25) then removes the sheath (13) from the endoscope (1) by moving the proximal end of the tube (34) away from the interface housing (8) of the endoscope (1) in the direction of arrow (50). The locking mechanism (34) causes the distal tip (17) of the sheath (13), due to the rigidity of the tube (32), to move by the same amount, so that the distal tip (17) moves in unison with the removal device (30). The sheath (13) is therefore removed simply and without wrinkling or buckling.</p> |
