Flexible sleeve slidingly transformable into a large suction sleeve

Abstract

A sleeve is provided for placing over a flexible endoscope. The sleeve has a port between its distal and proximal openings and the port is connected to a vacuum source. Once the endoscope is retracted proximal to the suction port, the sleeve's proximal opening is sealed off and the entire sleeve is turned into a suction lumen. Devices and methods in accordance with the invention provide improvement in removing materials from body cavities, especially in removing stones from the upper urinary tract.

1 . A medical device sleeve, comprising: 
 an elongated flexible tubular member defining a distal opening, a proximal opening, and a lumen extending from the distal opening to the proximal opening, the tubular member for receiving a scope within the lumen through at least the proximal opening;    a port disposed between the distal opening and the proximal opening, thereby defining a passageway extending from the distal opening, through a portion of the lumen, and to the port, the port for connection at least to a vacuum source; and    a seal preventing direct passage of fluid between the port and the proximal opening.    
   
   
       2 - 22 . (canceled)