| abstract |
An endoscopic overtube assembly comprises: an inflatable overtube; and a subassembly configured for insertion into an orifice of a patient, said subassembly defining a central passageway, and said subassembly including an internal cassette for receiving and securing the inflatable overtube, wherein the internal cassette of said subassembly can be manipulated from a closed position to an open position in which the inflatable overtube can be readily extended and deployed from said subassembly. The inflatable overtube travels with the endoscopic device. Once appropriately positioned, the inflatable overtube is detached from the endoscopic device and inflated to become a substantially rigid conduit defining an instrument channel that provides ready access to a particular body cavity. |