Laser resectoscope with ultransonic imaging means

#This invention relates generally to the field of surgical devices, and more specifically to a resectoscope.

#A resectoscope is employed transurethrally to perform prostate and/or bladder surgery. This device has an elongate central working section provided with an outer sheath, usually made of stainless steel, which is inserted into the urethra. The outer sheath prevents the urethra from collapsing, while the working elements internally of the sheath are employed to cut away the desired tissue.

#Conventional resectoscopes either are of the cold punch type, wherein the cutting element is unheated, or are of the heated type, where a cutting element, in the form of a conductive wire, is heated through an electrical connection to a diathermy unit. The diathermy unit can be controlled by the surgeon, either through the use of a hand-operated switch or through the use of a foot-operated switch.

#Other objects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will be readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

#FIG. 1 is a side view of the resectoscope of the present invention;

#FIG. 2A is an enlarged, partial section view of the drive mechanism and proximal end of the resectoscope of the present invention;

#Referring in greater detail to the various figures of the drawings wherein like reference characters refer to like parts, a resectoscope of the present invention is generally shown at 10 in FIG. 1.

#The resectoscope 10 includes a tubular outer sheath 100 adapted to be inserted into the urethra for the purpose of performing either prostate or bladder surgery, as is well known in the art. Specifically the outer sheath is inserted into the urethra to prevent it from collapsing while the operating procedure is carried out utilizing the working elements housed within the sheath 100.

#As shown in FIG. 2B, within and spaced from the outer sheath 100 is a second or inner tubular sheath 200, housing therein a cutting element 300. The cutting element 300 is adapted to rotate within the inner sheath 200. In the space between the outer sheath 100 and the inner sheath 200 is a third sheath 402. This third sheath 402 is part of the laser member 400 of the resectoscope and houses therein an optic fiber filament 408 which transmits the laser light beam. This third sheath 402 is affixed (for example, by being welded) at one end to the inner sheath 200, and its free end is radially moveable within the space between the inner and outer sheaths when it is contacted by the cutting element 300.