| 摘要 |
An endoscope is provided, wherein the head portion has an external threaded portion, with means to rotate the threaded porion relative to the head. The threads of the threaded portion, which are preferably fabricated from a resilient material to avoid tissue damage, are oriented outwardly from the head and are adapted to engage the interior of a body cavity, and in particular the valvulae conniventes of the small bowel, to draw the head therethrough. The threaded portion may comprise a sleeve that surrounds the head, driven by a variable speed, reversible gearmotor mounted within said head and electrically powered and controlled by the control unit. A CCD video camera, a light source and suction and water/air irrigation channels may be provided within the head, with the controls and connections therefore connected to a control unit through a flexible link. The link may include a casing comprising a strip of rigid material wound about the link in a spiral, adapted to provide resistance to torque applied by the head, while allowing lateral bending of the link.
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