Sheath Assembly

Abstract

A sheath assembly for protecting an endoscope insertion tube projecting from an endoscope head. The sheath assembly comprises: a resilient elongate tube comprising a bore for receiving the endoscope insertion tube; a resilient fitting for gripping the endoscope head; and a connector comprising a proximal end attached to the resilient fitting and a distal end attached to the tube. The connector and the resilient fitting are formed from different materials, the material forming the connector having a higher elastic modulus than the material forming the resilient fitting. The higher stiffness of the connector enables it to transmit axial forces evenly and efficiently to the fitting. The connector has a pair of laterally extending wings which provide a convenient and ergonomic point to grip the connector, making it easier to fit the assembly onto the endoscope head. The wings also act as finger guards which keep the surgeon's fingers well away from the proximal end of the fitting, reducing the chance of cross-infection with the endoscope head.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.