ENDOSCOPIC MULTIPLE SAMPLE BIOPTOME

摘要

An endoscopic multiple sample bioptome includes a hollow outer member and an axially displaceable inner member extending therethrough. The proximal ends of the outer and inner members are coupled to an actuator for axially displacing one relative to the other. The distal end of the outer member is coupled to one of a cylinder having a sharp distal edge and a jaw assembly, while the distal end of the inner member is coupled to the other. The jaw assembly includes a pair of opposed, preferably toothed jaw cups each of which is coupled by a resilient arm to a base member. The arms are bent to urge the jaws away from each other. The base member is mounted inside the cylinder and axial movement of the jaw assembly and cylinder relative to each other draws the arms into the cylinder and brings the jaw cups together in a biting action. When the outer member is coupled to the jaw assembly and the inner member is coupled to the cylinder, the distal end of the inner member is preferably coupled to the cylinder by a bent end which is welded to a hole in the cylinder wall. One of the jaws is preferably larger and has a pair of proximal wings. The wings and an upper edge portion of the larger jaw are bent radially inward and enter the smaller jaw when the jaws are closed.