Intelligent endoscopy systems and methods

Abstract

Endoscope sheaths and associated endoscopy data collection and analysis systems and methods are described. In one implementation an endoscope sheath include a body and one or more sensors disposed in the body. The sheath may further include a leak detection apparatus configured to detect leaks in the sheath body. In addition, the sheath may include actuator apparatus, such as a balloon catheter or other surgical instrument. Data from the endoscope and endoscope sheath may be collected, fused and displayed for use in medical procedures and/or analysis.

1 . A surgical device comprising:
 a sheath having a cavity with a proximal end into which may be inserted an endoscope and a distal end through which light may pass, the sheath having a body configured with an integral actuator.   
     
     
         2 . The surgical device of  claim 1  in which the integral actuator is a balloon element. 
     
     
         3 . The surgical device of  claim 2  in which the balloon element is disposed circumferentially about the sheath proximal to the distal end. 
     
     
         4 . The surgical device of  claim 2  in which the balloon element includes a window through which light may pass. 
     
     
         5 . The surgical device of  claim 2  in which the balloon element is configured with a lens through which light may pass. 
     
     
         6 . The surgical device of  claim 2  in which the integral actuator is a substantially transparent balloon element. 
     
     
         7 . The surgical device of  claim 1  in which the integral actuator is a retractable balloon element and the body being further configured with a stent placement apparatus. 
     
     
         8 . An endoscope sheath comprising:
 a body having a cavity with an open proximal end configured to accept an endoscope and a distal end proximal to which a balloon element is disposed, the balloon element configured for deployment from the body of the sheath.   
     
     
         9 . The endoscope sheath of  claim 8  in which the balloon element is configured to transit about the circumference of the sheath when deployed. 
     
     
         10 . The endoscope sheath of  claim 9  in which the balloon element is configured for tissue manipulation when deployed while the endoscope is configured to allow viewing of the tissue manipulation. 
     
     
         11 . An endoscope sheath comprising:
 a body having a cavity and a proximal opening for the cavity configured for disposition of an endoscope within and a distal end configured to allow the passage of light to the endoscope, the body having at least one actuator.   
     
     
         12 . The endoscope sheath of  claim 11  in which the at least one actuator comprises a balloon element. 
     
     
         13 . An endoscope sheath comprising:
 a cavitated body comprising a balloon element configured for the manipulation of tissue when deployed, the cavitated body having a proximal end into which may be disposed an endoscope and a distal end through which the manipulation of tissue may be viewed through the endoscope.   
     
     
         14 . The endoscope sheath of  claim 13  in which light may pass through the controllable balloon element. 
     
     
         15 . The endoscope sheath of  claim 13  in which the balloon element circumambulates the sheath when deployed. 
     
     
         16 . The endoscope sheath of  claim 13  further comprising a controllable stent placement apparatus.