TORQUE-TRANSMITTING VARIABLY-FLEXIBLE INSERTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING TORQUE AND VARIABLY FLEXING AN INSERTION DEVICE

摘要

A torque-transmitting, variably-flexible insertion device includes a hollow body having a proximal end with an entrance for receiving an instrument and a distal end with a tip for protrusion of the instrument. A vacuum-activated device transitions the hollow body between a relatively flexible condition and a relatively stiff condition. A torque braid transmits torque from the proximal end toward the distal end. A method for transmitting torque and variably flexing the insertion device includes transmitting torque along the hollow body with the torque braid, applying suction to create a vacuum in the hollow body for placing the hollow body in the relatively stiff condition, and relieving the vacuum for placing the hollow body in the relatively flexible condition.